Ever wonder what our ancestors used to use to treat everyday ailments before the time of pharmaceuticals? With more and more awareness on the need to supplement traditional pharmaceuticals with alternative and natural cures, it's interesting to turn back the clock to check out how early man dealt with it all. Yes, the life expectancy was (much) lower, but it may be useful to take inspiration from the bounty this rock has to offer. Absolutely not a replacement for the cures your doc or pharmacist gives you, these few plants give us a bit of an insight as to how our forebears tackled pain and sickness.
1. Maltese savory (xkattapietra) for kidney stones
Mikhail Micallef / Nostalgia Malta
Related to the mint plant, this pretty floral – which is found in valleys and rocky areas such as Wied Babu - has been said to cure kidney stones. Just pour one and a half pints of boiling water over two handfuls of the plant and let it steep. Then, drink a small shot three times a day until they’re all gone!
2. Bay leaf for bloating
The bay leaf is so adaptable - it not only flavours your stews and soups, but can be used to minimise bloating, flatulence, boils and even dandruff. Indigenous to the Maltese islands, having made these rocks its home before the first inhabitants ever set foot here, the bay leaf was an ever-present remedy for the early Maltese. Today, you can prepare some bay leaf tea by simmering in hot water for up to ten minutes with a slice of lemon.
3. Maltese sea chamomile (il-bebuna tal-baħar) for inflammation
While the Maltese sea chamomile is a protected species (so don’t go picking it up willy-nilly!) our ancestors could savour the health benefits such a flower could bring. Discomfort arising from menstrual pains, inflammation and skin conditions (if used topically, as a paste) can be mitigated with this fresh little flower.
4. Mediterranean thyme (saghtar) for a sore throat
Nasty cough? Mediterranean thyme has been said to assuage a scratchy throat. It is also said to act as a disinfectant, and get rid of disease-carrying pests such as mice and rats (though we would suggest having a back-up plan, just in case). However, this plant is also endangered, so it might be better to stick to the store variety or, better still, plant and nurture your own!
5. Jerusalem sage (salvjun tal-Madonna) for infected gums
A fantastic anti-oxidant, Jerusalem sage can keep the cooties at bay, leaving you feeling fresh and raring to go! Once again, tea made with the herb is your best option for a range of ailments such as throat infections, infected gums and mouth ulcers. We can just imagine these being useful to our ancestors back in the day!