This group generally meets on the last Friday of every month at various locations thoughout the Barony. Check both the web calendar and the Song of the Tower for date, time and location of each meeting.

Some Web Sites you might find interesting:

• http://www.herbnet.com/

• http://www.realtime.net/anr/herbs.html

• http://chili.rt66.com/hrbmoore/HOMEPAGE/HomePage.html

Terms:

• Herb: Any species of plant that contains medicinal substances which are in harmony with the human body and are capable of preventing or curing disease.

• Active Constituent: Part of the herb that is responsible for the healing action. May be more than one - but one is always dominant.

• Fungus: Mushrooms, toadstools - plants that lack chlorophyll

• Tea: Mild preparation of herbs. Obtained by pouring boiling water over herb and steeping for 5 minutes - 1 teaspoon of herb for 1 cup water

• Infusion: A stronger preparation of herbs. Obtained by pouring boiling water over herbs and steeping for 20 minutes - 30 gm. of herb to 1 pint water.

• Decoction: An extract or substance obtained through boiling. Used primarily for hard woody substances.

• Linament: A type of thin ointment.

• Ointment: A medicinal or cosmetic preparation applied to the skin.

• Poultice: A warm, soft, moist substance usually prepared with boiling water and thenspread on a cloth and applied to an inflamed part of the body to draw out infection. Acts as a counter irritant.

Herbal Guild Charter

"... The Herbal Guild is charged with the advancement of Herbalism/Herb lore as practiced within the Barony and charged with upholding the standards of said craft. Membership shall be open to all who are interested, without let or hindrance, and shall consist of three classes: Apprentice, Artisan, and Sage. A Guild principle shall be selected on an annual basis from the members attending the annual election meeting. To the Guild principle is instructed the well being and ultimate advancement of the Guild.

An Apprentice shall be anyone who indicates an interest in Herbalism/Herb lore and wishes to learn more of the science, attend meetings and is willing to accept instruction.

An Artisan shall have devoted time and effort to the learning and basics of Herbalism as it pertains to the gentles interest. this must include complete working knowledge of at least four individual herbs including, but not limited to culinary and medical uses, regardless of their primary area of study.

A Sage shall be anyone who has devoted time and effort to additional studies of Herbalism as it pertains specifically to the Middle Ages. This must also include further study of at least six additional herbs: their medical, culinary, physical attributes and other uses including, but not limited to: incenses, cosmetics and cleaning properties. A Sage must also show a willingness to teach and share with others their knowledge and be able to document these findings successfully...."

Disclaimer:

Always verify whether or not you are allergic to an herb before attempting its use. Remember, it is possible to be internally allergic to a substance and not externally allergic and vice versa. Research the correct manner to accomplish these tests before using any unfamiliar herbs.

• Information used by the Herbal guild of Caer Anterth Mawr has NOT been submitted to any formal tests by the guild or the SCA and is offered without warranty expressed or implied. The use of the information is entirely the responsibility of the user. The Guild highly stresses caution in the use of any and all herbs. Those attempting the use of this information and techniques do so at their own risk.