A hardy perennial, up to 1 m (3 ft.) tall, it has a creeping rhizome and oval, silvery-green, soft-textured leaves, with a minty-balsamic fragrance. Small, daisy-like flowers are borne in mid- to late summer. Formerly classified in the Chrysanthemum genus.
History and traditions
Alecost came to Europe from the Middle East during the 16th century and soon became popular for its pleasant balsam fragrance. As Culpeper wrote a century later, “This is so frequently known to be an inhabitant in almost every garden that supposes it is needless to write a description thereof.” As its common name suggests, it was used to flavor ale, the second syllable “cost” is from a Greek word, kostos, meaning fragrant or spicy. In the 17th century it was taken to America by settlers, where it became known as Bible-leaf from the custom of using it as a Bible bookmark and sniffing its revivifying scent during long sermons. As a medicinal herb it was frequently recommended for disorders of the stomach and head and Culpeper gives instructions for making it into a salve with olive oil, thickened with wax, rosin and turpentine. But it is now little used as a medicinal herb.
Habitat/distribution
Native to western Asia naturalized in Europe and North America.
Growth
Prefers a moisture-retentive but well-drained soil and a sunny position. Most easily propagated by division or cuttings in spring, but can also be grown from seed.
Uses
Medicinal
An infusion of the leaves helps reduce the pain of insect bites and stings, and a fresh leaf may be applied directly to the spot as “first aid”.
Culinary
Fresh leaves may be added to fruit cups and drinks; fresh or dried leaves make an aromatic tea.
Aromatic
The dried leaves are added to pot-pourri and make fragrant bookmarks.
