Nestorian missionaries converted the Keraits, along with the Naiman and Merkit tribes, early in the 11th century. These Asian Christians became very different theologically from their counterparts in the West, and were perceived as a mythical cult. From this perception grew the fantastical legend of Prester John.
The ger, or yurt as it is commonly called, is one of two forms of portable housing that have been used by Central Asian nomads for centuries, dating back to the Scythians. My study reflects their usage by the nomads of Tibet, Mongolia and China during the time of Marco Polo.
This article compares a selection of herbs which were used as medicinal teas in both Western Europe and Asia during the medieval period. It includes personal taste tests : )
I had planned to write about the medieval uses of the herbs and flowers growing in my own garden. When I found out how extensive the Mint family was, I focused on this genus and discarded all else…