Cassidony, or Arabian Staechas.

Botanical name: 

Staechas Arabica.

A VERY fragrant and pretty shrub, native of Spain, and many other warm parts of Europe. It grows much in the manner of lavender, to a yard or more in height, and is not uncommon in our gardens. The branches are firm and woody: the young shoots are pliable and square, and are naked to the top. The leaves stand upon the branches two at each joint, they are long, narrow, and white. The flowers stand in little clusters or heads, like those of lavender; and there are two or three large and beautiful deep blue leaves upon the tops of the heads, which give them a very elegant appearance.

The flowers are the only part used: they are of the nature of those of lavender, but more aromatic in the smell: they are very serviceable in all nervous complaints, and help to promote the menses. They are best taken dried and powdered.


The Family Herbal, 1812, was written by John Hill.