Arbutus as an Herb

(Strawberry Tree)

Growing in the wilds is the beautiful evergreen shrub, known as the Arbutus, or Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unede).

The tree is common in the Mediterranean region and the fruit was known to the ancients, but history notes that it was not held in much esteem. The fruits are considered so unpalatable that no one who tastes them for the first time is tempted to repeat the experience.

However, there is some historical evidence that at one time the fruit was part of the diet of the ancients. Horace praises the tree for its shade and Ovid for its loads of "blushing fruit." Virgil, on the other hand, recommends the young shoots as winter food for goats and for basket work.

Gerard speaks of Arbutus in his time as growing in 'some few gardens, and says,

"The fruit being ripe is of a gallant red color, in taste somewhat harsh, and in a manner without any relish, of which thrushes and blackbirds do feed in winter ."

Medicinal Uses for Arbutus

• Astringent and diuretic.
• Bladder and urinary troubles: of special value when the urine contains blood or pus, and when there is irritation.

Infusion

The infusion of 1 ounce of the arbutus leaves to a pint of boiling water may be taken freely.

Culinary

In Spain, a sugar and spirit have been extracted from the fruit and a wine made from it in Corsica. When eaten in quantities this fruit is said to be narcotic, and the wine made from it in Spain has the same property.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.