My interest in the use of plants in medicine had been heightened by my exhibition in University of Oxford Botanic Gardens so when I returned to my studio I began to wonder if  there were any plants in Turn End Gardens that could be used for medicinal purposes.

Although I now know that there are commercial uses for some plants my interest was in how they were used in times gone by.

My most trusty reference book became Mrs. Grieves “Modern Herbal “ written in 1931 https://botanical.com/ mainly because it is categorised by Common name which meant that I could remember seeing some of the plants in my childhood and at that time when asking the name Latin did not come to the mind of my parents.

Yes, I found several plants in Turn End Gardens that Mrs Grieves recommended and I could pick some to press and print for my own T. E. Herbarium.

I am always amazed how coincidences happen when I am researching for a book. Is it that I am only seeing relevant links? Possible interesting talks or articles and exhibitions on the subject. I will never know but it has happened more than once so always keep your eyes and ears open to all influences.

The first of these coincidences happened at the Buckinghamshire County Museum. The Buckinghamshire Archaeological Society holds talks once a month at lunchtime at the Museum https://bas1.org.uk/lectures-and-talks  Given by experts in all different fields. At the time of my research they had a talk from the keeper of an herbarium with examples. Although the talk was a bit too academic for me it was the examples that were wonderful to see. How the 19^th century collectors mounted their specimens. Each had a label of where, when and Date found.

Sticky tape and sewing seemed to be the prevalent method. I would have to give my book more time.