Medicinal Plants in Middle Earth Part Three
Part two which focuses on medicinal plants in Eregion Part one There are also lots of mentions of medicinal plants in my spring flower game and other Beleriand environment posts!
See the first post for disclaimers regarding ethnobotanical research and some of my general thoughts on elves and medicine! Let me know if you want a specific plant or the flora or a location written about for the next entry!
Lingonberries which are found in northern Dorthonion and the March of Maedhros are used in teas and juices to treat minor respiratory symptoms, especially those caused by the cold.
Wood sanicle is found throughout Beleriand with its highest numbers in central Beleriand especially Doriath and Brethil. It has a long history of use as treatment to clean wounds. Both the elves of Doriath especially the marchwardens and the Haladin use a sanicle tincture to wash injuries
Buckthorn is found in open spaces, especially on disturbed land. It's most common in Western Beleriand and can be found around Nargothrond. The residents of Nargothrond use mixtures of fresh leaves to treat insect bites on themselves and on animals.
Masterwort is found in the mountains of Dorthonion and some of the Ered Wethrin. It is used in tinctures and teas in traditional medicine by the Sindar and Noldor there, primarily to treat internal ailments.
Buterbur is found near streams in southern Beleriand, especially Ossiriand. It is used to treat pressure and weather related headaches by the green elves there. It was occasionally used by the Edain during their journey through Ossiriand though in humans the risk of toxicity is greater.
Eyewort is found in Hithlum, especially in the montane areas. As its name suggests, it's used in hand sewn compresses alongside warm rocks to treat eye related injuries, especially caused from irritation or exposure. Due to its use as an internal remedy, it was also used by the Hadorins, including being collected and dried to use as teas by Aerin and others during the occupation of Hithlum, often alongside yarrow and others. The effects were not strong enough to cure or fully treat but they could occasionally provide some relief
