Zastosowanie i właściwości lecznicze korzenia kosaćca fiołkowego w historii medycyny i farmacji
The application and medicinal properties of the root of Iris florentina in the history of medicine and pharmacy

Summary/Abstract: Iris florentina also referred to as the white iris is an old name for Iris germanica. The plant’s root called orris root was used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. As early as in antiquity it was applied to treat stomach illnesses and irritation as well as, above all, stomatitis and a sore throat. Orris root was also used as a remedy for the respiratory tract infections, skin ulcers and kidney stones due to its powerful diuretic effect. Apart from its anti–inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it had a very pleasant aroma, which is why it became an ingredient of perfumed products, such as scented soaps, as well tooth powders, which also had cleansing and medicinal properties. The research aim of this article is a thorough analysis of cosmetic and medicinal use of the root of Iris florentina from antiquity till the 19th century, moreover, the answer to the question: has its use changed over the centuries? For this purpose the authors used, among others, 19th – century apothecaries’ manuals stored in the library of the Museum of Pharmacy Jagiellonian University Medical College. The study showed that in the history of medicine and pharmacy, orris root was particularly used as an ingredient in dental products.

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