Historical use. 'The full and sappy roots of Lady-traces eaten or boyled in milke, and drunk, provoke venery, nourish and strengthen the body and be good for such as be fallen into a consumption or Fever Hectique'. HFO Note: While Gerard was principally referring to Spiranthes autumnalis, he attributed the same uses to all Spiranthes, and the use is as for Salep (from the roots of all European terrestrial orchids) in the present day.