Macer Floridus

Medieval herbalist and author

Macer Floridus was a medieval herbalist and author, known for his influential work on the medicinal properties of plants. His most notable contribution is the poem De viribus herbarum, which was widely read and used throughout the Middle Ages.

Biography

Little is known about the life of Macer Floridus. He is often identified with Odo of Meung, a French scholar and poet, although this identification is not universally accepted. The name "Macer" is thought to be a reference to the Roman poet Aemilius Macer, who also wrote about plants. Floridus's work suggests he was well-versed in the botanical knowledge of his time.

De viribus herbarum

De viribus herbarum, 16th century manuscript

De viribus herbarum ("On the Powers of Herbs") is a didactic poem composed in Latin hexameters. It describes the medicinal properties of 77 different plants, drawing on both classical sources and contemporary medieval knowledge. The poem was highly regarded for its practical information and poetic style.

The work was often copied and translated, becoming a staple in monastic libraries and among physicians and apothecaries. It served as a reference for the preparation of herbal remedies and was used in the teaching of medicine during the medieval period.

Influence and Legacy

Macer Floridus's work had a significant impact on the study of herbal medicine in Europe. De viribus herbarum was one of the most popular herbals of the Middle Ages, influencing later works such as the Hortus sanitatis and the writings of Hildegard of Bingen.

The poem's influence extended beyond the medieval period, as it was printed in numerous editions during the Renaissance, reflecting the continued interest in herbal medicine and the revival of classical texts.

Related pages

• Herbalism
• Materia medica
• Medieval medicine
• Hildegard of Bingen
• Hortus sanitatis