A - Z Challenge - W

The reflection of British wildflowers in emotions.

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Watercress Rorippa. Wise  woman.

The perennial watercress Rorippa Amphibian grows on the margins of lakes and streams. A conspicuous terminal raceme of golden-yellow flowers rises from the centre of the rosette of leaves. The peppery taste of the cultivated watercress livens up salads and can be used as a garnish. Watercress is rich in Vitamin A and C, and a variety of nutrients. The leaves have been used for bladder and kidney problems.

Throughout the ancient and medieval periods, poor people in Europe turned to polar healers. The so-called wise woman possessed knowledge, passed down through generations, of traditional or folk medicine. She dealt with all kinds of illnesses and conditions, including childbirth and, in some cases, abortion. Her knowledge and skills were by not restricted to women’s health. Methods of diagnosis and treatment were based on the belief that all human life was linked to the rest of creation. Wise women used many practical herbal remedies, drawing on plants and the rest of the natural environment, which they knew well.

Their cures were often scoffed at. However, more recently the herbal remedies of folk medicine have been found to include many naturally occurring ingredients that are medically useful. Modern homeopothy has developed into a prominent branch of alternative medicine.

Proverb: To every thing there is a season.