ZEDOARY

Curcuma zedoaria
As with Turmeric, its close relative, it yields a yellow dye. Popular at one stage
as a spice, it is now only used by Indonesians in curry powder (Clair), and in perfumery (Genders. 1972). Zedoary is actually mentioned in Anglo-Saxon medicine, but being a rather unusual substance, is recommended for magical medicine, as an ingredient in the “holy drink” against “elfin enchantment” (Bonser). As late as the mid-17th century, it was still marvel enough to be recommended against the plague. Lupton has “The root of Zedoary (but be sure it be perfect and good) mixed with aisins, and a little liquorice, champed with the teeth and swallowed, preserves them that do so unhurt, or without danger of the plague, if they go to any that are infected with the plague, or that are constrained to speak with them that have the plague”. Pomet, a century or so later, was still quite enthusiastic about it, describing it as “esteem’d a good Cordial, and of great Efficacy
against all Venom and Contagion”, but in real terms, its reputation was going down by the end of the 17th century, until its use is confined to its own habitat.

Zephyranthes atamasco > ATAMASCO LILY

Zingiber officinale > GINGER