What plants are used in the book midwifes apprentice?

In the novel "The Midwife's Apprentice", by Karen Cushman, the protagonist, Alyce, uses various herbs and plants for medicinal purposes. Here are some of the plants mentioned:

1. Valerian: Alyce uses valerian to help a woman struggling with childbirth. Valerian is known to have sedative and pain-relieving properties, making it useful for inducing sleep and easing pain.

2. Pennyroyal: Pennyroyal is used by Alyce to induce abortion for women who are in distress. However, it is important to note that pennyroyal is a toxic plant and can be dangerous if not used with extreme caution and proper medical knowledge.

3. Rosewater: Alyce uses rosewater as a soothing agent and to refresh the senses. Rosewater has calming properties and can provide a pleasant scent in the environment.

4. Yarrow: Yarrow is used by Alyce to stop bleeding and heal wounds. Yarrow has astringent and hemostatic properties, which make it effective in controlling bleeding and promoting wound healing.

5. Chamomile: Alyce uses chamomile as a mild sedative and to help with sleep. Chamomile is known to have calming and relaxing effects, making it useful for promoting restful sleep.

6. Comfrey: Comfrey is used by Alyce to treat muscle aches and pains. Comfrey has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

7. Fennel: Fennel is used by Alyce to help with digestion and relieve gas. Fennel has carminative and digestive properties, which make it useful for improving digestion and reducing flatulence.

8. Lavender: Alyce uses lavender as a soothing agent and to help with headaches. Lavender has calming and pain-relieving properties, making it useful for relieving tension headaches and providing relaxation.

9. Elderberries: Alyce uses elderberries, which she makes into a tisane, to help alleviate cold and flu symptoms. Elderberries have antioxidant and antiviral properties, which make them effective in combating respiratory illnesses.

10. Angelica: Alyce uses angelica to help with menstrual irregularities and to ease symptoms of childbirth. Angelica has emmenagogue and stimulant properties, which can help regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve discomfort during childbirth.

It's important to note that the use of herbs and plants for medicinal purposes should be done with caution and with proper knowledge of their properties and potential side effects. In historical settings like the one depicted in the novel, people relied on traditional knowledge and the skills of healers and midwives to use plants for healing purposes.