Linseed Compresses

Cataplasma Semen Lini

Historical tradition – not medical advice, and no health or healing claims. more

Historical botanical drawing: Linseed — Linseed

Tradition (Hildegard's writings)

In Hildegard's tradition, linseed compresses were used externally for the care of stressed skin, for example with mild sunburn.

Ingredients

Linseed, water and a linen cloth.

Note

Important: linseed and linseed oil should not be taken internally. For extensive or deep burns, please seek medical help.

Botanical background

Linseed contains mucilage, fatty oil and protein; as a moist, warm application it is credited with a protective, soothing effect on stressed skin.

Sources & references

Strehlow, Wighard: Die Hildegard-Naturapotheke. Heilmittel und Rezepte von A bis Z. Knaur Verlag 2014. S. 171.
Strehlow, Wighard: Der Hildegard-Kompass. Die wichtigsten Heilmittel und Anwendungen. Knaur Verlag 2014. S. 78.
Hildegard von Bingen: Heilsame Schöpfung. Die natürliche Wirkkraft der Dinge (Physica). Hrsg. von der Abtei St. Hildegard, Eibingen. Beuroner Kunstverlag 2012 (4. Auflage 2024). Cap. 1-150 (Leinsamen (Flachs)).
Breindl, Ellen: Das große Gesundheitsbuch der Hl. Hildegard von Bingen. Bassermann Verlag 2004. S. 230.

The text of this entry is an independent summary in our own words, based on the works listed – not a verbatim reproduction. The page and chapter references document where the content comes from. A superscript number on a section heading points to the work that section follows. All rights to the original works remain with their authors and publishers.

Historical tradition. The above describes how this preparation was recorded and used in the tradition of Hildegard of Bingen. This is cultural-historical information, not medical advice and not a health or healing claim, and it is no substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. If you have health complaints, please consult your doctor or pharmacy.

‹ Back to the encyclopaedia