Each Thursday medieval herbalist Sheila Stenning will lead an easy walk from the Wetlands Secrets plant house along gentle pathways of the reserve identifying wetland plants and discussing their historic social and medicinal uses. “Wetland plants provided a bounty of food and medicine,” said Sheila Stenning, “some plants, like valerian to calm nerves, are still used by herbalists today.”
In July and August the wet meadows of Arundel Wetland Centre are a riot of flowers, like those of the lacy white Meadowsweet. This herb was strewn on medieval floors as an air freshener and adds a subtle almond flavour when used to make stewed fruit and jams.
The starchy roots of shiny Silverweed plants were an important food crop plant before the potato was brought to Europe in the 16th century. These roots were eaten raw, boiled or baked and tasted like turnip. The dried leaves of the Bogbean plants found floating on the waters of the reserve were made into a tea to treat scurvy, rheumatism and skin diseases. It was also smoked as an herbal tobacco.
Plant Walks & Talks start at 11am on July 5, 12 & 19 and last one hour. In rainy weather the talks will take in the shelter of the wetland secrets building. The walk is included with regular admission price to Arundel Wetland Centre, but space is limited to 20 people.
Arundel Wetland Centre is located on Mill Road, Arundel BN18 9PB. The wetland centre is open from 9:30 am until 5:30 pm daily. Call 01903 883355 for more information.
Published 19th June 2012
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