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SAMPHIRE (Rock or Small) CRITHMUM MARITIMUM It is more agreeable as a pickle than useful as a medicine. A succulent herb growing on rocks with thick, dull or blueish-green leaves and umbels of yellow flowers. Where to find it: Fairly common at the coast where it grows on the cliffs, shingle and sandy shores. Flowering time. Midsummer. Astrology: A herb of Jupiter. Medicinal virtues: It is well known that indigestion and obstructions are the cause of most of the diseases that the frail nature of man is subject to, both of which might be remedied by a more frequent use of this herb. It is safe, pleasant to the taste and stomach. It provokes urine and helps to take away the gravel and stone engendered in the kidneys or bladder. Modern uses: Not in general use as a medicine, but it is still pickled and eaten in seaside districts where it grows and where the people know its virtues. The leaves and stalks can be cooked and eaten like Asparagus. |