Book Review: Mugworts In May

Having become a Master Gardener in PA, when I first moved back to VA I looked into becoming one here. Imagine my disappointment when the classes were being held during the workday! So I turned to the adult education opportunities and ended up taking a six week course on herbs. It was taught by Linda Ours Rago, the author of this

Over the course of the six weeks I learned much about herb gardening how to and what plants. But what was of the most fun was the fascinating folklore Linda had to tell us, much of which is included in her delightful little book; Mugworts in May, a folklore of herbs.

With over eight pages of Bibliography, using sources from as far back as the 1600s, Linda shares a wealth of information. Chapters cover herbal charms for a diverse range of subjects, a wise woman’s garden and a compendium of magical herbs. The illustrations are from woodcuts dating back to the eight century and add a charming touch to the book.

While the chapters on the charms are enchanting and fun to read; who can resist smiling at the following poem:

Nut for a slut

Plum for a glum

Bramble for she who is a ramble

Gorse for whores

- traditional insults said when May Day greenery is hung at someone’s door My favorite chapter was on the wise woman’s garden. Oh how I wish I had the land, time and money to recreate her garden.

Though not widely available I did find it at West VA Book Company for $4.00. Not a bad price for a couple hours of entertainment.

Becky Phillips, Loudoun County Master Gardener