“A decoction of the leaves with the flowers is good against the diseases of the lungs, such as coughs and spitting of blood. It is also good for colic pains. Applied externally, the leaves are useful against swellings, ulcers, inflammations of the eyes, burns and scalds… Country people say that carrying it about one preserves the wearer from enchantments and witchcraft.”

John K’ Eogh, An Irish Herbal, 1735