Apiaceae in Polish herbal manuscripts of the 16th-18th centuries – an ethnopharmacological study

Therapeutic activity has referred to for many species of the Apiaceae family since ancient times. Polish herbal manuscripts are important historical sources which allow analysis of knowledge development on Apiaceae as medicinal plants. The aim of this study was to analyze four works, published by Stefan Falimirz, 1534; Marcin of Urzedowo, 1595; Szymon Syreński, 1613; and Krzysztof Kluk 1786-1788 (Vol. I-III), focusing on monographs of Apiaceae species, which were studied with respect to nomenclature, taxonomy and phytochemical and utilitarian characteristics as well. The evolution of the list of species exploited, the orientations and objectives for medicinal usage, and the scientific value in the light of the past and present state of knowledge were elaborated and evaluated as a potential approach for modern pharmacology. Polish materia medica was based on Hippocrates’ humoral theory that lasted until the 18th century with little variation. The earliest herbal manuscripts, dating back to the 16th century, were translations of numerous sources, and natural remedy usage was primarily based on ancient works. Publications of the 17th and 18th century had a more significant input in materia medica development as a result of the academic education and personal experience of the authors, and conscious reference to up-to-date botanical and pharmacological European literature. Monographs of Apiaceae species included in the four manuscripts were analyzed, verified according to current classification and compiled with respect to therapeutic and utilitarian use. Pharmacological activity, often multidirectional, was referred to for all species mentioned, and partial approval has been found in modern research.