In the ancient city of Cyrene, a herb called silphium was as valuable as gold despite its unimpressive look. Its roots were dipped in vinegar and sheep were fed the herb to make its flesh tender, the report revealed. Medicine:The wonder herb was used to treat many ailments, "including growths of the anus" and dog bites, the report stated. Local kings exclusively possessed the herb for centuries, making Cyrene, now Shahhat, Libya, the richest land in Africa. While the true identity of the popular ancient plant may never be uncovered, there are lessons to be learned from its decline and disappearance.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 20, 2017 10:41 UTC