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

Leave a Reply

More From Gardening Calendar

2018 Garden Trends: Containers, Privacy, Pollinators

Discover the big ideas on the 2018 gardening stage that are influencing plants breeders and designers. Learn about the rise in container gardening, plants for privacy and defensive planting, and the various dwarf varieties. Explore the big trends for 2018!

Ten Common Gardening Mistakes

Learn from the common gardening mistakes made by master gardeners and save time, labor, and money in the next gardening season. Prevent fabric weed cloth perils, plant at a proper distance from your house, avoid early gardening in spring, and utilize fallen leaves for compost.

When to Start Seeds

Discover the best timing for starting seeds and ensure successful plant growth. Learn the factors to consider and get expert tips for a thriving garden.

Benefits of Container Gardening

Create your own gorgeous arrangements with minimal effort with container gardening! Learn how you can get started, what you need and the benefits it can bring. See our guide on how to get growing today.