Alecost is the common name of Tanacetum balsamita species, from Compositae family.
Also known as: costmary, bible leaf, balsam herb.
Alecost flowers
Image credit: Stanislav Doronenko
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Features of Alecost
Height to 36 inches. Spread to 24 inches. Zone 4-8. Perennial.
creeping root.
mint-scented, toothed, silver-green leaf.
white and yellow, daisy-like, clustered flower in summer.
Growing Alecost
- by root division during spring and autumn.
- by seed during spring. Seeds are not viable in cold climates.
- transplant: 24 inches apart.
Alecost is also known as "bible leaf" as its fragrant leaves were often pressed between pages of the bible in the past.
Some said this kept God's word sounding and swelling sweet, others believe the practise was a way of keeping spirits up during long sermons.
Alecost leaves were once important in brewing to help preserve ale and add flavour, before it was overtaken by hops.
Using Alecost
Cosmetic
Rinse
Make an infusion as a rinse for hair. (Use leaf)
Culinary
Drink
Use to spice up and preserve beers. (Use leaf)
Filling
Add a little bit of chopped leaves to stuffing. (Use leaf)
Salad
Use moderately in salads. The taste is strong. (Use leaf)
Soup
Add a small amount of finely chopped leaves to soups. (Use leaf)
Household
Fragrance
Add to potpourri to enhance the fragrances of other herbs. (Use leaf)
Repellent
The leaves emanate a camphor smell. It has been used as an insect repellent since medieval times. (Use leaf)
Medicinal
First-aid
Make into ointments for insect bites and burns. (Use leaf)
Tea
A tea for cold symptoms and stomach upsets. (Use leaf)
Traditional Remedies
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using alecost for health related purposes.
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