The oldest herbal book in the Americas
Photo:
CRUZ – BADIANO MEXICAN CODEX
The Libellus de medicinalibus indorum herbis, better known as the Cruz-Badiano Codex (of Mexican medicinal plants) is the oldest medicinal book that has been produced in America. It was compiled in 1552, at the Colegio de Santa Cruz de Santiago Tlatelolco in Mexico City by the indigenous doctors Martín de la Cruz and Juan Badiano to preserve the knowledge originated by the cultivation of native plants and flowers. The Codex describes 185 different plants and how to prepare remedies, therapeutic uses and cures for diseases or symptoms that the human body presents. The Cruz-Badiano Codex is arranged according to diseases or conditions and goes from head to toe, which corresponds to an indigenous principle of classification.
The Codex, which was kept in the Vatican Apostolic Library until 1990, was returned by Pope John Paul II on his second visit to Mexico. Today, through the efforts of cultural agencies, educational institutions and foreign relations in Mexico, a renewed printed and electronic edition is available at http://codicecruz-badiano.com/index.html#home
Thanks to Vallarta Botanical Garden for this information.
Comments
More From Gardening Calendar
The oldest herbal book in the Americas
Uncover the ancient knowledge of indigenous medicines in the Cruz-Badiano Codex, the oldest medicinal book produced in the Americas. It offers 185 native plants and how to prepare remedies, therapeutic uses and cures for head-to-toe ailments. Find out more!
Soil Calculator and Raised Garden Bed Basics
A soil calculator is essential for raised beds and container gardening, which provide easy control of loose, fertile soil. Read on for more.
Canada Mayflower Growing Guide
Canada Mayflower is a wonderful ground-covering plant for woodland gardens that spreads by underground roots. Read Quick Growing Guide.
Preparing Roses for Winter
Get expert advice on how to protect your roses this winter with netting, breaking off weak branches, and mulching. Discover why snow is the best insulator, and take tips from Judith on preparing for the Annual General Meeting, Christmas Craft shows, inventory and more.
Squarrose Goldenrod
Learn about the distinctive Squarrose Goldenrod and its tall cluster of flowers. This perennial herb can reach a height of 6 ft and produces a rosette of large leaves at its base. Up to 200 tiny yellow flower heads cover its slender, elongated array, attracting many insects such as bees, bumblebees, wasps, butterflies, and moths. Identify it and discover its prolific nature!
Fireweed
Fireweed for pollinators: discover the wild magenta willow plant with stunning blooms & its importance for pollinators. Visit North Carolina to witness Fireweed and its unique beauty, or learn more about its edibility, and its potential toxicity to animals.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.