Strewing herb

Strewing herbs are certain kinds of plants that are scattered (strewn) over the floors of dwelling places and other buildings. Such plants usually have fragrant or astringent smells, and many also serve as insecticides or disinfectants. Their use was widespread in England during the middle ages through to the 18th century.

Historical Use

In the early middle ages bathing was in decline in England. As people got smellier so the use of fragrant herbs became more popular. They were used in all areas of the house, including kitchens, dining halls and bedrooms. The herbs were laid on the floor along with reeds, rushes or straw, so that pleasant odours would be released when people walked on them. Certain plants would also help keep pests such as fleas at bay.

Rich and poor households used strewing herbs and royal households were no exception. Indeed, Queen Elizabeth I was particularly fond of Meadowsweet:

The post of Royal Herb Strewer was created in 1660 by King Charles II.

List of Strewing Herbs

Lady's Bedstraw	Kills fleas. Also used to stuff matresses.
Sweet flag	Sweet smell. Rush-like leaves.
Pennyroyal	Kills fleas (also known as fleabane).
Lavender	Also used in matresses and pillows.
Hyssop	Frangrant. Also has biblical reference to cleanliness
Mint	Various species
Meadowsweet
Chamomile
Southernwood	Also known as lad's love, this was thought to be an aphrodisiac. Often used in bedrooms.
Sweet woodruff
Thyme	Various species.
Rue
Rosemary	Often strewn in churches.
Rose	Petals only.
Camphor laurel	Also known as Mawdelin
Cotton lavender
Sage
Tansy

References