Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium; Myrrhis odorata)
Folk Names: Anise Chervil, British Myrrh, Cow Chervil, Great Sweet Chervil, Shepherd’s Needle, Smooth Cicely, Smoother Cicely, Sweet Bracken, Sweet Chervil, Sweet Cicely, Sweet Cus, Sweet Humlock, Sweet Fern, Sweets, The Roman Plant
Description: Chervil is found in mountain meadows from the Pyrenees to the Caucasus. In Britain, it is found in Wales, Northern England, and Scotland. It is a perennial with a thick root and heavily scented foliage. The leaves are large and somewhat downy beneath. The first shoots are almost triangular, lacy leaves with a simple wing curving up from each side of its root. The stem grows from two to three feet with many leaves. The flowers are white and appear in the early summer from compound umbels. In appearance the plant is very similar to hemlock, though it has a bright shade of green. The fruit is large (an inch long), dark brown, and flavorful.
Effects: gentle
Planet: Jupiter
Element: air, fire
Associated Deities:
Traditions:
The name Myrrhis odorata is derived from the Greek word for perfume and it’s myrrh-like smell.
Magic:
An elixir or an incense can be fashioned from chervil to increase the sense of those parts of the self which exist beyond life- the divine or immortal spirit. It is used in rituals of death and dying to help deceased let go.
It was suggest that elderly people in need of courage or strength should eat the root boiled and dressed with oil and vinegar to increase their lust for life. A tincture of chervil is also said to be an aphrodisiac.
Known Combinations:
none noted
Medical Indications: (Caution: The plant resembles hemlock and you should be sure of identification before using it.) Parts Used: root
Chervil is an aromatic, carminative, expectorant. It is useful for coughs and flatulence, and is a gentle stimulant for an upset stomach. The root may be eaten fresh or infused in brandy or water. The root is also antiseptic, and it was once used to treat the bite of serpents and mad dogs. An ointment of chervil would also be advantageous to new wounds.
Nutrition:
The foliage and root can be added to salad or boiled. The seeds are used as a seasoning herb. The leaves and seeds are sweet, resembling anise in flavor and lovage in odor. Chervil is a favorite herb in German cuisine.
Mercantile Uses:
Chervil is a favorite of bees. In the north of England, the seeds are crushed and used to polish and scent oak floors and furniture.