The poppy is mentioned by Iago in the quotation previously given, as being known for its narcotic properties.
“Macbeth.
What rhubarb, senna, or what purgative drug
Would scour these English hence?”[32]
Rhubarb was known to the Chinese 2700 B.C., and has been used for its purgative properties from the earliest times. It is said to take its name from the river Rhu, now the Volga, on whose banks it grows.
“Perdita.
For you there’s rosemary and rue; these keep
Seeming and savour all the winter long;
Grace and remembrance be to you both.”[33]