strewing herb

Marjoram used to be considered a remedy for all manner of complaints and was also a strewing herb.

Rushes squeaked underfoot, each step pressing the strewing herbs to fragrance.

Those maidservants walked beside her, strewing herbs; behind them came a procession of priests with censors.

Rich and poor households used strewing herbs and royal households were no exception.

Southernwood has a strong camphor-like odour and was historically used as an air freshener or strewing herb.

By the 16th century lavender had become a popular strewing herb both for its insect repelling properties and its long lasting fragrance.

In the past in castles, monasteries and churches it was used as a strewing herb and for purification.

Strewing herbs are certain kinds of plants that are scattered (strewn) over the floors of dwelling places and other buildings.

In the Middle Ages it was used as a strewing herb to repel insects such as moths, lice and ticks and spread a good smell in private rooms.

Last century and before, flea control involved the very strong smelling Strewing Herbs like Tansy and Tobacco which were mixed up in bedding to discourage parasites in general.

Use as a strewing herb if rats are suspected anywhere, grow in the garden for a similar reason, and put bunches into hen and duck houses to discourage rats from there also.

The custom of strewing cut vegetation on the floors of churches began at an earlier date: the plants commonly used were hay, straw or rushes and together with strewing herbs they improved the comfort for those using the church.

The whole herb possesses a pleasant taste and flavour, the green parts having a similar aromatic character to the flowers, leading to the use of the plant as a strewing herb, strewn on floors to give the rooms a pleasant aroma, and its use to flavour wine, beer, and many vinegars.