Asarum europaeum (Hazelwort) – 1543 Leonhart Fuchs

This beautiful botanical illustration of Asarum europaeum , known as Hazelwort, comes from Leonhart Fuchs' famous New Kreüterbuch from 1543 – a groundbreaking work in the history of herbal medicine and botany. The distinctive plant with its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and hidden bell-shaped flowers was highly valued in the medical arts of the time.

Witch hazel grew naturally on the forest floor throughout most of Europe and was used medicinally as an emetic and to cleanse the body. Due to the plant's powerful effects, it was used with great caution – usually by trained herbalists and pharmacists. It was also referred to as "European ginger" because the root's taste and smell resemble ginger, and it was formerly used as a spice.

This reproduction is based on the original woodcut illustration and colored with respect for the historical source. An obvious choice for those interested in the history of medicine, the diversity of nature, or simply wanting to decorate with classic, scientific beauty.