Scientifics

Which Dittany to Use?
by Tarma Black (Hufflepuff)

A fairly popular herb used in potions is 'Dittany.' Healers, alchemists and herbalists all use this herb--but which one is used for what? Many wizards and witches are not aware that there are actually two herbs called Dittany. If one happens to pop the wrong Dittany into an ointment or elixir, one could have quite a different result than what one hoped for!

Dittany (White) Dictamnus albus White dittany has leaves that resemble those of an ash tree and bear large, elegant flowers that can be red and white striped or blue. It grows in gardens and in warm places as well as in woodlands where it is sheltered. The flowering time is early to the middle of summer.
Medieval uses:
According to Culpepper's Color Herbal, the roots are used medicinally, and are "cordial, cephalic, resist poison and putrefaction and are useful in malignant and pestilential fevers." An infusion of the tops of white dittany works to provoke urine and ease colicky pains.
Modern day uses:
The plant is more commonly known nowadays as the Burning Bush. It has an essential oil which smells of lemon and is flammable. The top part of the herb is used as a tea for a stomach tonic and for nervous complaints. The powdered root, combined in equal parts with peppermint, has been used for epilepsy.

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Dittany of Crete Origanum dictamnus Dittany of Crete is a member of the oregano family and grows to about 6 or 8 inches high. It has small purple flowers and roundish leaves that are covered with a white fuzzy down. The stalks are square in build. It originally grew wild in Crete (hence the name) but now grows everywhere in gardens and is especially cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is not hardy; you must provide winter protection for this lovely plant. It flowers from mid to late summer.
Medieval uses:
Again, according to Culpepper's Color Herbal, Dittany, "made as a decoction in wine, it procures a speedy and easy delivery or can be used together with Vervain, Hyssop and Pennyroyal...Dittany and milk are good for spitting of blood. The roots are cordial and cephalic, resist putrefaction and poison, and are useful in malignant and pestilential distempers. The whole herb is good for diseases of the head, and to open all manner of obstructions."
Modern uses:
According to one source, this herb is not used medicinally anymore, having been replaced by Sweet Marjoram (Origanum marjorana) and Wild Marjoram (Origanum vulgare). Another source (1), though, states Dittany (Dictamnus species, Rutaceae) is "Fed raw, plant and seed, as tonic and to increase appetite. A nerve stimulant and to give vigour. An ancient remedy to cure bites of snakes, scorpions and dogs. Used internally and externally." Elsewhere it says that Dittany is "a favourite herb of the Greek peasants to safeguard health of humans and goats."

Bibliography:
Culpepper's Color Herbal Edited by David Potterton, published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. New York ISBN 0-8069-7690-x (1)
The Complete Herbal Handbook For Farm and Stable by Juliette de Bairacli Levy

This article is for study only and not to be used as a guide for medical treatment of self or others. - Tarma Black