Before there were pharmacies and packaged pills, there were gardens, kitchens, and the careful hands of healers. In Amulets for Salem by J. Zdybowicz, this tradition of herbal knowledge is passed from grandmother to mother to daughter. While the novel blends history with supernatural elements, many of the remedies described are grounded in real folk practices that people used for centuries. These remedies not only highlight the line between medicine and suspicion during the Salem witch trials, but also remind us of how practical and resourceful communities once were.
Here are five real herbal remedies featured in the novel, paired with historical context and simple, safe notes for today.
- Lavender for Burns
In the novel, Apollina and her grandmother prepare salves with lavender to soothe burns. Lavender has long been valued for its calming fragrance, but it also carries mild antiseptic properties. Healers in Europe and colonial America often used lavender oil or infused ointments to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
Modern note: Today, lavender essential oil is still used in diluted form for minor burns and skin irritation. Always dilute essential oils properly before applying to the skin.
- Yarrow for Wounds
When Apollina searches her family’s recipe book, she finds that yarrow is used to treat cuts and open wounds. Historically called “soldier’s woundwort,” yarrow was carried by soldiers during battle to stop bleeding. Its leaves can help clot blood and promote healing.
Modern note: Yarrow can still be found in herbal teas and tinctures, often marketed for its immune-supporting properties. Avoid direct use on serious wounds; seek medical attention when needed.
- Juniper Berries for Infection
Juniper berries, mentioned in the shed where the family keeps their jars, were believed to fight infection. They were used in poultices and tinctures to reduce swelling and cleanse wounds. In some traditions, juniper was also burned as incense for purification.
Modern note: Juniper berries are sometimes used in teas for digestive issues, though they should not be consumed in large amounts and are not recommended for pregnant women.
- Chamomile for Calm and Sleep
Grandmother’s shelves also hold chamomile, a common herb in European households of the time. Chamomile was steeped in teas to ease stomach discomfort, calm nerves, and promote sleep. In Amulets for Salem, it reflects the family’s efforts to heal gently, even while hiding their practices.
Modern note: Chamomile tea remains one of the most popular natural remedies for relaxation. However, those allergic to ragweed should avoid it.
- Willow Bark for Pain Relief
Apollina’s family uses willow bark, an herb with a long history. Known as “nature’s aspirin,” willow bark contains salicin, a compound similar to the active ingredient in modern aspirin. It was chewed or brewed into tea to reduce fever and relieve pain.
Modern note: Willow bark is still available in some herbal supplements; however, individuals with aspirin sensitivity or stomach issues should avoid it.
These remedies in Amulets for Salem serve two purposes: they anchor the story in authentic history and highlight the risks women faced for practicing simple healing. What we consider common herbal knowledge today may have been viewed as suspicious or even dangerous in Salem.
Disclaimer: The remedies listed are for historical and educational purposes only. They are not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal treatments.
If you enjoy stories that weave history, healing, and the strength of women into one compelling narrative, read Amulets for Salem by J. Zdybowicz. It offers a fascinating look at how survival often began with the simplest tools: herbs, wisdom, and courage.
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