People thought that disease was caused by smell and perfume was very important. For those that could afford it linen clothes were boiled in scented water and lavender, woodruff or dried roses scattered amongst stored clothes. People would carry small bags of scented herbs to press to their noses if they were in a place where there was illness or bad smells. Strong smelling spices were seen as a protection against the poisonous vapours that were thought to spread the plague.
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Perfume - Meadowsweet
