Sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata).

Sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata) is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is known for its delicate, fern-like leaves and small, white, umbelliferous flowers. It is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsnips, and celery. Sweet cicely has a sweet, anise-like flavor and is often used in cooking and herbal medicine. Here are some key uses and benefits of sweet cicely:

How to sow.

Sweet Cicely (Myrrhis odorata) is a perennial herb that is easy to grow from seeds. Here's how to sow sweet cicely seeds:

1. Timing: The best time to sow Sweet Cicely seeds is in late summer to early fall, as they require a period of cold stratification to germinate. However, if you're starting them indoors, you can also sow them in early spring, about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

2. Stratification: If you're sowing in late summer or fall, you can leave the seeds outside to naturally stratify over the winter. If starting in early spring, place the seeds in a moist paper towel or seed starting mix and store them in the refrigerator for about 4-6 weeks to mimic winter conditions.

3. Prepare the soil: Choose a site with well-draining soil and partial to full sun. Sweet Cicely prefers a rich, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If necessary, amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its structure and fertility.

4. Sowing seeds outdoors: Once the soil has warmed up in the spring and all danger of frost has passed, broadcast the seeds over the prepared area and gently press them into the soil. They should be covered with a very thin layer of soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.

5. Sowing seeds indoors: Fill small pots or seed trays with a seed starting mix and sow the seeds thinly. Lightly cover with soil and keep them moist. Place the pots in a bright, but not direct sunlight location, and maintain a consistent temperature of around 60°F (15°C) until germination.

6. Germination: Sweet Cicely seeds can take anywhere from 14 days to several months to germinate. Be patient, as they are known for their slow and erratic germination.

7. Thinning: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to about 12-18 inches apart.

8. Transplanting: If you started the seeds indoors, wait until they are large enough to handle and all risk of frost has passed before transplanting them into your garden. Gently dig them up and plant them in their permanent location, watering well to help them establish.

9. Care: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, especially during the first year of growth. Sweet Cicely doesn't require much maintenance once established. It may take a couple of years for the plant to mature and produce a good crop of leaves for harvesting.

10. Harvest: You can start harvesting the leaves in the second year of growth. The leaves can be used fresh or dried for culinary purposes. The seeds can also be harvested and used as a spice or saved for future planting.

Remember to label where you've sown the seeds, so you don't mistake them for weeds during the germination period. Sweet Cicely can take up to 2-3 years to reach maturity, so it's essential to be patient and give it the care it needs to thrive.

History and uses.

1. **Culinary Uses:** The leaves and seeds of sweet cicely can be used in a variety of dishes. The leaves are commonly used as a garnish or in salads, while the seeds can be used as a substitute for anise or caraway. It is also used in baking, especially in fruit dishes and cakes, and can be added to jams and jellies to enhance the flavor. The root can be cooked and eaten like a vegetable.

2. **Herbal Tea:** The leaves and seeds of sweet cicely can be used to make a soothing, aromatic tea that is often used to aid digestion and settle the stomach.

3. **Digestive Aid:** Sweet cicely has been traditionally used as a digestive aid and to treat a range of stomach ailments, including flatulence, colic, and indigestion. It is thought to have carminative properties, which can help to reduce gas and bloating.

4. **Diuretic:** The herb is sometimes used to stimulate urine production, which can be beneficial for those with water retention issues or urinary tract infections.

5. **Respiratory Health:** Sweet cicely can be made into a syrup to soothe sore throats and coughs and may also be helpful in reducing symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

6. **Skin Care:** The herb has been used externally as a wash or ointment to treat various skin conditions, such as acne, boils, and wounds. It is also said to be beneficial for soothing sunburns and insect bites.

7. **Circulation:** Some herbalists suggest that sweet cicely can help improve blood circulation, which may be beneficial for those with cold hands and feet or poor circulation.

8. **Anti-inflammatory:** The herb has been used to reduce inflammation, which may make it useful for conditions like arthritis or rheumatism.

9. **Flavoring Agent:** The anise-like flavor of sweet cicely makes it an excellent addition to liqueurs, cordials, and other beverages.

10. **Insect Repellent:** The strong scent of sweet cicely is thought to repel certain insects, making it a natural alternative to chemical bug sprays.

11. **Cultural Significance:** In some European countries, sweet cicely is associated with Easter and is used in traditional dishes and decorations during the holiday season.

12. **Companion Planting:** Sweet cicely is often planted near fruit trees as it is believed to enhance the growth and flavor of the fruit. It is also a good companion for roses, as it can help deter aphids.

When using sweet cicely medicinally, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, as it can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid using it without professional guidance, as its safety in these cases has not been fully established. Additionally, like other plants in the Apiaceae family, sweet cicely contains phototoxic compounds that can cause skin irritation if applied to the skin and then exposed to sunlight.

Do not take internally or use for medicinal purpose without expert medical advice.