Our next title is the significant work by Dr. Dorothy Shepherd (1885-1952). This was published in 1951and hence could have been easily missed.
C W. Daniels in their publisher’s blurb have commented that “A Physician’s Posy” is “probably the most fascinating book ever written on homeopathy.” It deals with 22 herbal remedies used by homeopaths.
The genius of Dorothy Shepherd is seen in how she can take a small arrangement of flowers, no doubt attractive enough when put together in a posy, but as herbal essences or homeopathic remedies they are capable of helping many sick people. For example, Marigolds or Calendula with their bright orange flowers would have stood out as stars in the posy arrangement but when used medicinally by herbalists or homeopaths it is excellent in helping wounds to heal. The ancient herbalists such as Culppepper and Gerarde describe it as “a comforter of the heart and spirit”.
Shepherd who practiced medicine in London during World War Two and in the Blitz saw Calendula as being important in treating open wounds and epsis and in first-aid situations it can be a potent addition to anyone’s first aid kit. William Shakespeare who always seemed to have known his herbs, mentions it in his play, ‘The Winter’s Tale’.
Also in many posies the humble common daisy will have a part to play, just as they do in herbal medicine and homeopathy. According to Shepherd, the daisy is an excellent uterine tonic with the power to help in uterine prolapse, also Shepherd describes many of her own cases in this work. Thus making it even more invaluable!