Eau De Cologne Plant

Here is a fascinating plant, a herb in fact, that we have grown for a number of years, being the true source of the oil or essence of Eau de Cologne. Although we believe these days Eau de Cologne scent, astringents and toilet water are now made from chemicals The foliage is bruised or squeezed gently between the finger and the thumb to really bring forth the true scent or essence.

During the Summer months a plant in a kitchen, bathroom or sickroom, or indeed any other room in the house, can assist in deterring the nuisance of flies. Although nowadays there are many products that release harmful poisonous vapours that eliminate flies chemically Eau de Cologne is the safe plant and can be grown in a pot on a windowsill. It naturally dies back in Winter and will break out into growth in the new year. It is a good plant to have near drains to deter flies as it is hardy and will grow outside in the garden.

It belongs to the mint family and the foliage can be used as you would mint for making a mint sauce. The thought of mint sauce smelling of eau de Cologne does not appeal to ones palate but the scent changes prepared in this way and likewise a sprig placed with potatoes when cooking imparts a distinct flavour that some find most palatable.

We have had letters typical of the following from Mrs Ann Offen, being a farmer's wife from Biddenden in Kent, dated the 16th of October 1990. She wrote: Dear Sir, I would just like to congratulate you on a fantastic plant. I live on a farm with pigs etc., which attract a great number of flies and wasps. Since buying the Eau de Cologne plants they have grown and spread out. I just pinch and rub the leaves to release scent and wait. The flies and wasps after a while get a drunk effect and then drop down dead, truly amazing, seeing is believing. I am so pleased with them and don't now have to use those horrid smelly aerosols etc. I will certainly pay you a visit as I want to try out the herbs for migraine and joint pains. I do hope you have again the climbing strawberry plants which I missed buying from you when advertised, so useful in a small walled garden. Thanking you, yours truly - Mrs A. Offen.

Recommended by the RHS to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

If mosquitoes are troublesome rub a bruised leaf on your forehead and neck at bed time or if caravanning or camping - it keeps the perishers away!

• A member of the mint family.
• Perennial.
• Prefers a damp position
• Reaches approximately 3 feet (90 cm) tall.
• Beautiful pink/lilac clusters of flowers July to September.

• Medicinal Uses.
• Can be used to help stomach, intestinal, liver and gallbladder complaints.
• Can be used to ease nausea and flatulence.

• Other uses.
• Has antiseptic and mild anaesthetic properties.
• Use in toothpaste and perfume!

IMPORTANT We make no claim for these plants actually killing flies or wasps, but we have received many similar letters.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using. It is not recommended that Peppermint tea is given to young children.