THE POWER OF A GARDEN
Edinburgh's physic gardens are filled with herbal remedies
The healing power of plants has long been documented, and the blooming physic gardens dotted round Edinburgh demonstrate that interest in ancient herbal remedies continues to thrive, says
Gardens have long been associated with wellbeing, and research shows that green spaces are good for our physical and mental health. However, the physic garden’s role was to provide a more direct impact on health, and modern medicine is firmly rooted in its history. Medicinal plants were used by the ancient Greeks, Romans and Chinese, and the word ‘physic’ originates from Greek: ‘physike episteme’ meaning ‘knowledge of nature’. It is from where the word ‘physician’ is derived.
Physic gardens date back to the medieval period in Europe and were also known as apothecary gardens. They tended to be smaller, more functional spaces where plants thought to have medicinal qualities were grown. Medieval monks planted physic gardens within the monastery’s cloister, providing a ready supply of medicinal plants which they used to heal the sick and balance what was referred to as the ‘humours’.
Plants were grouped together for easy access and carefully labelled. Some of the early claims made about plants can seem more folklore than science, but many of the remedies did have efficacy. Lavender and chamomile are still used today for their calming properties.
As interest in medicinal plant use grew, physic gardens flourished and became status symbols for kings and doctors. A more scientific approach was taken in the study of plants and beautifully illustrated books known as ‘herbals’ were printed listing plants and their healing properties.
As scientific knowledge developed, plant use became more sophisticated, resulting in many of the medicines we benefit from today. Digitalis purpurea (foxglove) contains digitalis used in cardiac treatment, while galantamine, which is found in Galanthus nivalis (the common snowdrop), is used in medicine for cognitive decline.
Edinburgh has been at the forefront of medicine and plant research, and today three beautiful physic gardens exist as testimony to this. They also offer learning opportunities for future generations.
To celebrate its 900 year history, the Palace of Holyroodhouse opened new public gardens and a Learning Centre in 2020, enabling schools and community groups to explore how plants have been used over the centuries. The gardens, which are free to enjoy, are part of the Palace’s Future Programme project; a major programme of investment by The Royal Collection Trust.
‘Edinburgh has been at the forefront of medicine and plant research’
Three gardens have been established: a flowering meadow of medicinal plants that replicates what would have been planted there in the 15th century where Holyrood Abbey once stood. The next is a garden of geometric design showcasing plants from the 17th century featuring bulbs and alliums.
The third is the physic garden which re-imagines the one originally planted by Sir Robert Sibbald and Sir Andrew Balfour in 1670 for King James I. Both men were founders of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Working alongside James Sutherland, who later became the King’s botanist, they filled the garden with medicinal plants and it became known as the King’s Physic. The garden was later moved and eventually became what is now the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
At the official opening of the new gardens, HRH Prince Charles spoke of the three founders. ‘They established a pioneering physic garden,’ he said, ‘where medicinal plants were organised on a scientific basis and doctors were trained in botany and how to use herbs to create safe, effective treatments for their patients.’
The new physic garden features a series of labelled raised beds showcasing groups of herbal and medicinal plants such as fennel, once thought to aid eyesight and to treat the bites of snakes and mad dogs. Visitors are encouraged to walk amongst the beds and read about each plant.
The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, which supports the ongoing professional development of qualified