Dweorgh Dwosle

Introduction to 'Dweorgh Dwosle' (Penny Royal)

This poem, set in Anglo-Saxon times, is based on a cure for fever, headaches, soreness, cramp and spasms. The original manuscript (Lacnunga 11C) attributes these conditions to the malignant influence of dwarves - supernatural beings that lived in rocks and underground. The herb would have been gathered by the whole root ball before being taken away to be prepared into a salve or balm.

Dweorgh Dwosle

Dweorgh Dwosle to, Anglo Saxons was famed,

In thousand years, Pennyroyal renamed.

This herb wilt cure those, dwarf made unwell,

A little infusion, sickness to quell.

The destroyer of dwarves, Dweorgh Dwosle be,

Soreness cramp and spasm, to name but three.

Fever and headaches, it wilt also cure,

Gathereth with root ball, keep fresh and pure.

Useth with incense, and ritual to charm,

Apply to thy pain, and use it as balm.

As eye salve it taketh, soreness away,

A loaf or few eggs, wilt serve thee as pay.

Copyright Andrew Rea 2009