The Physic Garden at Pennsylvania Hospital, established in 1976, is flourishing
with flora that pay tribute to the herbal remedies used in 18th- and 19th-century medicine. Physicians in this period would collect natural ingredients and create plant-based treatments for their patients’ ailments, such as brewing leaves into tea to cure an upset stomach or applying a plant to the skin to relieve a rash. Although historically used for medicinal properties, the plants that make up the garden today simply create a therapeutic and relaxing environment for staff, patients, and visitors.
“The garden was inspired by PAH founder Benjamin Franklin’s journal that had descriptions of plants that were thought to be solutions to medical conditions,” said Dan Bangert, lead horticulturalist at PAH. “As medicine evolved, some of these plants’ healing properties were debunked or had unexpected side effects, but we’ve tried to keep the garden true to how [Franklin] envisioned it.”
While PAH has been home to the garden for more than 40 years, there are a few plants that could be purchased from local nurseries and incorporated into your own home for healing, or as a new, visually appealing addition to your own garden. Consult your health care provider if you are taking medications and begin consuming any new herbal remedy that may have side effects.
Beebalm (Monarda didyma)
When steamed or used in teas, beebalm has been found to act as a decongestant, relieving stuffy noses and other cold-like symptoms. Its minty aroma and bright red, spiky petals can also attract hummingbirds when planted in gardens.
Bayberry (Myrica pennsylvanica)
Similarly, when boiled to a tea, bayberry was originally thought to help reduce fevers, although this has not been proven. The gray berries from this plant can also produce a wax when boiled and can be used to make candles, exuding an earthy and sweet, soothing scent. In some traditions, burning a bayberry candle, typically on Christmas or New Year’s Eve, meant good fortune for the coming year.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’)
A popular essential oil scent, lavender can provide a comforting aroma that may help counteract stress and enhance relaxation. Displays of dried lavender branches can supply a home with this calming fragrance.