The Rambling Cleric

Digressive Musings on Old-School D&D

Plant Lore and Healing Remedies in D&D: Mugwort (Common)

This herb, which one calls ‘artemisia’ and by another name ‘mugwort’ is produced in stony and sandy places; when someone wishes to begin a journey, have him take this herb artemisia in his hand and have it with him, then he will not find the journey too great; and it also drives off demonic possession and in the house, where he has it inside, it forbids evil leechdoms and also it averts the eyes of evil men.

Entry XI, The old english herbarium, trans. pollington (2000)
Mugwort Entry from Cotton MS Vitellius C III, f. 25v

**All information in this post regarding the uses of various plants are for gaming purposes only. This information does not represent actual medical guidelines/recommendations.

Plant Lore and Healing Remedies in D&D: Adderwort

For an adder’s bite take this same uiperinam (i.e., Adderwort), pound it, mix with wine, give it to drink, it heals the bite marvellously and drives away the poison.”

Entry VI, The old english herbarium, trans. pollington (2000)
Adderwort Entry from Cotton MS Vitellius C III, f. 24r

**All information in this post regarding the uses of various plants are for gaming purposes only. This information does not represent actual medical guidelines/recommendations.

Invoking Denizens of the Otherworld Part I: Expanding Reaction Checks in OD&D

In my game setting, almost everyone interacts (to some degree) with gods, goddesses, and Otherworld beings like elves, dwarfs, and land wights. Most do not question their existence since it is part of the assumed cultural worldview. All recognize the need to appease and respect such beings in order to maintain well-being and prosperity. Conversely, people also desire to avoid harm, sickness, and disease through the regular upkeep of ritual acts. Propitiatory rites, offerings to seek favors, and votive acts linked with oaths are widespread among common folk and highborn alike. Players, too, are able to engage in such practices. Mechanically, I handle such practices and interactions using OD&D’s existing reaction rules.

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