Traditionally, this herb has held a significant place on the Pennsylvania Dutch spice palette. It has been known by many names in Deitsch, yet its use seems to have diminished over time. It's time to bring increase our awareness of this herb and to enjoy learning and experiencing the traditions that continue into the present.
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| es Kannligraut |
This is Sweet Cicely (pdc: es Kannligraut, es Karwligraut, der Siessfennichel, die Siesswatzel; tax: Myrrhis odorata). It is a perennial herb in the carrot family. As an aromatic herb, its traditional use in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is to add a mild licorice or anise flavor and natural sweetness to dishes. One of the benefits to Sweet Cicely is that it is often used to reduce the amount of sugar needed in cooking and the stems and leaves are used in stewing tart fruits, such as Rhubarb, Gooseberries, and variants of Apples.
The use as a flavoring is versatile, from omelets to herb-infused oils and brandies. All parts of the plant are edible, with some people boiling the roots or adding them to stews (including to Bott Boi, or pot pie).
As is the case with Fennel, I will sometimes pop a Sweet Cicely seed pod and chew on it to ease dry mouth when working outside or to freshen my breath. They can be added to cakes or cupcakes for a subtle anise flavor.
Medicinal Uses
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and discussion purposes only. Nothing in these posts is intended to constitute, or should be considered, medical advice or to serve as a substitute for the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider.
Although there are several historical medicinal uses for this herb, perhaps the most valuable today is as a sweet spice that can reduce the need for additional sugar and can thus be used in cooking for diabetic needs.
Paul Wieand (17) lists traditional uses as being as a laxative, which is still recommended as a tea among many Hexerei practitioners today. Other traditional uses include as an easement for bronchitis, grippe, bowel, and urinary issues.
Folkloric Uses
Paul Wieand (17) lists traditional uses as being as a laxative, which is still recommended as a tea among many Hexerei practitioners today. Other traditional uses include as an easement for bronchitis, grippe, bowel, and urinary issues.
Folkloric Uses
In Blanzegschwetz practice at this time of year, Sweet Cicely plays an interesting role. Spring tonics and bitter tonics are common as we emerge from winter. The Sweet Cicely already has enough growth on it that I can use it as a sweet tonic or as a flavor balance in a bitter tonic.
This is also an "Elf shot" herb in our folklore. Carrying Sweet Cicely on oneself is said to protect one from being targeted by curses or malicious entities. If one senses an Elf shot (a sudden, unexplained shooting pain in the body), a traditional remedy is to rub the spot with a poultice of Sweet Cicely in asterisk patterns nine times.
It would be wonderful to see a resurgence of the traditional herbs in our spice palette. Growing this herb is not difficult, but seed stratification is important to get it started. If you don't live in an area where you have extended periods of freezing temperatures in the winter, you would have more luck placing the seeds in a freezer (dampness can also help) for a month or so.
It is a good woodland herb, so it does well in partial shade and moist soil. Benign neglect is better than too much attention. It attracts beneficial insects and is an excellent companion plant to Rhubarb and Hosta.
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Work Cited:
Wieand, Paul. Folk Medicine Plants Used in the Penna. Dutch Country. Mechanicsburg, PA: Remembrance Press, 1961.
Work Cited:
Wieand, Paul. Folk Medicine Plants Used in the Penna. Dutch Country. Mechanicsburg, PA: Remembrance Press, 1961.
