The Roots of Healing: Six Centuries of Medical Herbals

The long history of medical herbals—written descriptions of plants and their healing properties— is a history of revolution. An illustrated herbal, or “book of simples,” is not only an index of plant cures; it represents a world view, uniting scientific observation with an appreciation of nature’s beauty.

As they developed from the Middle Ages to the present day, medical herbals reveal an evolving understanding of the human body, of nature, and how we organize knowledge and see our place in the world. They intertwine art, botany, human physiology, and spirituality.

Herbal-derived medicines—from analgesics to chemotherapeutics— still have a prominent place in hospitals and medicine cabinets. Scientific advances reaffirm the plant kingdom’s role in generating novel, effective therapeutics. Medical herbals, including those displayed in this exhibition, remind us of the potential healing power of nature.

Please join us for the “Curator’s Talk and Reception” to celebrate the opening of The Roots of Healing: Six Centuries of Medical Herbals exhibition on October 22, 2025.  Curator Matthew Morrison, MD, will offer guests a brief walkthrough of this exciting exhibition and light refreshments will be served in the Memorabilia Room.

Curator: Matthew Morrison, MD
Lecturer, Yale Humanities