Black hellebore, medicinal and poisonous plant
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Black hellebore, medicinal and poisonous plant
Black hellebore, medicinal and poisonous plant native to Asia and Europe, Veratrum nigrum.. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by French botanist Jean Baptiste Francois Pierre Bulliard from Herbier de la France, Paris, 1780
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Media ID 14208363
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
1780 Botanist Bulliard Hellebore Herb Herbal Herbier Nigrum Pierre Poison Veratrum
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving depicts the enigmatic Black Hellebore, Veratrum nigrum, a plant of great historical significance in the realms of medicine and toxicology. Native to Asia and Europe, this plant has been known since ancient times for its dual nature, with both medicinal and poisonous properties. The Black Hellebore, as shown in this beautiful illustration by the renowned French botanist Jean Baptiste Francois Pierre Bulliard, was a subject of fascination for herbalists, alchemists, and physicians throughout history. The intricate details of its leaves, stems, and roots are rendered with remarkable accuracy and artistry, revealing the complex structure of this intriguing plant. Bulliard, a prominent figure in the world of botanical illustration during the late 18th century, created this illustration as part of the Herbier de la France, a comprehensive and influential work on the flora of France. This engraving, produced in Paris in 1780, is a testament to Bulliard's mastery of the copperplate engraving technique and his deep understanding of the natural world. The Black Hellebore has been used for various medicinal purposes throughout history, including the treatment of heart conditions, convulsions, and even as a purgative. However, its toxic properties were also well-known, and ingestion of the plant could lead to severe poisoning, causing symptoms such as hallucinations, paralysis, and even death. This image invites us to explore the rich history of the Black Hellebore, a plant that embodies the complex relationship between nature, science, and human curiosity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the potential benefits and risks of the natural world and the role of botanical illustration in documenting and preserving this knowledge for future generations.
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