among them, we will name chelidonia first of all. It is by the aid
of this plant that the swallow restores the sight of the young birds
in the nest, and even, as some persons will have it, when the eyes
have been plucked out. There are two varieties of this plant; the
larger[711] kind has a branchy stem, and a leaf somewhat similar to
that of the wild parsnip,[712] but larger. The plant itself is some
two cubits in height, and of a whitish colour, that of the flower
being yellow. The smaller[713] kind has leaves like those of ivy, only
rounder and not so white. The juice of it is pungent, and resembles
saffron in colour, and the seed is similar to that of the poppy.
These plants blossom,[714] both of them, at the arrival of the swallow,
and wither at the time of its departure. The juice is extracted while
they are in flower, and is boiled gently in a copper vessel on hot
ashes, with Attic honey, being esteemed a sovereign remedy for films
upon the eyes. This juice is employed also, unmixed with any other
substance, for the eyesalves,[715] which from it take their name of
“chelidonia.”
CHAP. 51.—THE DOG-PLANT: ONE REMEDY.
Dogs, too, are in the habit of seeking a certain plant,[716] as a
stimulant to the appetite; but although they eat it in our presence,
it has never yet been discovered what it is, it being quite impossible
to recognize it when seen half-chewed. There has also been remarked
another bit of spitefulness in this animal, though in a much greater
degree, in reference to another plant. When stung by a serpent, it
cures itself, they say, by eating a certain herb, taking care, however,
never to gather it in presence of man.
CHAP. 52.—THE ELAPHOBOSCON.
The hind, with a much greater degree of frankness, has discovered to
us the elaphoboscon, a plant of which we have already[717] spoken, and
which is also called “helxine,”[718] from the assistance it affords
those animals in yeaning.
CHAP. 53.—DICTAMNON: EIGHT REMEDIES. PSEUDODICTAMNON OR CHONDRIS. IN
WHAT PLACES THE MOST POWERFUL PLANTS ARE FOUND. HOW THAT MILK IS DRUNK
IN ARCADIA FOR THE BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF THE PLANTS UPON WHICH THE
CATTLE FEED.
It is the hind, too, that, as already[719] stated, first made us
acquainted with dictamnon,[720] or dittany; for when wounded, it eats
some of this plant, and the weapon immediately falls from the body.
This plant grows nowhere[721] but in Crete. The branches of it are
remarkably thin; it resembles pennyroyal in appearance, and is hot
and acrid to the taste. The leaves are the only part employed, it
being destitute of[722] blossom, seed, and stem: the root is thin, and
never used. In Crete even, it is found growing only in a very limited
locality, and is sought by goats with singular avidity.
In place of it, the pseudodictamnum[723] is employed, a plant that is
found growing in many countries. In leaf it is similar to the other,
but the branches are more diminutive: by some persons it is known
as “chondris.” Its properties not being so strongly developed, the
difference is immediately recognized: for an infusion of the very
smallest piece of the real dittany, is sufficient to burn the mouth.
The persons who gather it are in the habit of enclosing it in a stem
of fennel-giant or in a reed, which they close at the ends that the
virtues of it may not escape. Some persons say, that both plants grow
indiscriminately in numerous localities, the inferior sort being the
produce of rich soils, and the genuine dittany being found nowhere but
in rugged, uncultivated spots.
There is, again, a third[724] plant called “dictamnum,” which, however,
has neither the appearance nor the properties of the other plant so
called; the leaves of it are like those of sisymbrium,[725] but the
branches are larger.
There has long been this impression with reference to Crete, that
whatever plant grows there is infinitely superior in its properties
to a similar plant the produce of any other country; the second rank
being given to the produce of Mount Parnassus. In addition to this, it
is generally asserted that simples of excellent quality are found upon
Mount Pelion in Thessaly, Mount Teleuthrius in Eubœa, and throughout
the whole of Arcadia and Laconia. Indeed, the Arcadians, they say, are
in the habit of using, not the simples themselves, but milk, in the
spring season more particularly; a period at which the field plants
are swollen with juice, and the milk is medicated by their agency.
It is cows’ milk in especial that they use for this purpose, those
animals being in the habit of feeding upon nearly every kind of plant.
The potent properties of plants are manifested by their action upon
four-footed animals in two very remarkable instances: in the vicinity
of Abdera and the tract known as the Boundary[726] of Diomedes, the
horses, after pasturing, become inflamed with frantic fury; the same is
the case, too, with the male asses, in the neighbourhood of Potniæ.
CHAP. 54.—THE ARISTOLOCHIA, CLEMATITIS, CRETICA, PLISTOLOCHIA, LOCHIA
POLYRRHIZOS, OR APPLE OF THE EARTH: TWENTY-TWO REMEDIES.
In the number of the most celebrated plants is the aristolochia,
which would appear to have derived its name from females in a state
of pregnancy, as being ἀρίστη λοχούσαις.[727] Among us, however,
it is known as the “malum terræ,” or apple of the earth,[728] four
different varieties of it being distinguished. One of these has a root
covered with tubercles of a rounded[729] shape, and leaves of a mixed
appearance, between those of the mallow and the ivy, only softer and
more swarthy. The second[730] kind is the male plant, with an elongated
root some four fingers in length, and the thickness of a walking-stick.
A third[731] variety is extremely thin and long, similar to a young
vine in appearance: it has the most strongly-marked properties of
them all, and is known by the additional names of “clematitis,” and
“cretica.” All these plants are the colour of boxwood, have a slender
stem, and bear a purple flower and small berries like those of the
caper: the root is the only part that is possessed of any virtues.
There is also a fourth[732] kind, the name given to which is
“plistolochia;” it is more slender than the one last mentioned, has
a root thickly covered with filaments, and is about as thick as a
good-sized bulrush: another name given to it is “polyrrhizos.” The
smell of all these plants is medicinal, but that of the one with an
oblong root and a very slender stem, is the most agreeable: this
last, in fact, which has a fleshy outer coat, is well adapted as an
ingredient for nardine unguents even. They grow in rich champaign
soils, and the best time for gathering them is harvest; after the earth
is scraped from off them, they are put by for keeping.
The aristolochia that is the most esteemed, however, is that which
comes from Pontus; but whatever the soil may happen to be, the more
weighty it is, the better adapted it is for medicinal purposes. The
aristolochia with a round root is recommended for the stings of
serpents, and that with an oblong root * * * * But in this is centred
its principal reputation; applied to the uterus with raw beef, as a
pessary, immediately after conception, it will ensure the birth of
male[733] issue, they say. The fishermen on the coasts of Campania give
the round root the name of “poison of the earth;” and I myself have
seen them pound it with lime, and throw it into the sea; immediately
on which the fish flew towards it with surprising avidity, and being
struck dead in an instant, floated upon the surface.
The kind that is known as “polyrrhizos,”[734] is remarkably good,
they say, for convulsions, contusions, and falls with violence, an
infusion of the root being taken in water: the seed, too, is useful for
pleurisy and affections of the sinews. It is considered, too, to be
possessed of warming and strengthening properties, similar to those of
satyrion,[735] in fact.
CHAP. 55.—THE EMPLOYMENT OF THESE PLANTS FOR INJURIES INFLICTED BY
SERPENTS.
But it will be as well now to mention the various uses made of
these plants, and the effects produced by them, beginning with that
most dangerous of all evils that can befall us, stings inflicted by
serpents. In such cases the plant britannica[736] effects a cure,
and the same is the case with the root of all the varieties of
panaces,[737] administered in wine. The flower, too, and seed of
panaces chironion are taken in drink, or applied externally with wine
and oil: cunila bubula,[738] too, is looked upon as particularly useful
for this purpose, and the root of polemonia or philetæris is taken in
doses of four drachmæ in unmixed wine. Teucria,[739] sideritis,[740]
and scordotis,[741] are used in wine, plants particularly good, all of
them, for injuries inflicted by snakes; the juice or leaves, or else
a decoction of them, being taken in drink or applied to the wound.
For a similar purpose also, the root of the greater centaury is taken,
in doses of one drachma to three cyathi of white wine. Gentian, too,
is particularly good for the stings of snakes, taken either fresh or
dried, in doses of two drachmæ, mixed with rue and pepper in six cyathi
of wine. The odour, too, of lysimachia[742] puts serpents to flight.
Chelidonia[743] is also given in wine to persons who have been stung;
and betony in particular is used as an external application to the
wound, a plant the virtues of which are so extraordinary, it is said,
that if a circle of it is traced around a serpent, it will lash
itself to death[744] with its tail. The seed of this plant is also
administered in such cases, in doses of one denarius to three cyathi of
wine; or else it is dried and powdered, and applied to the wound, in
the proportion of three denarii of powder to one sextarius of water.
Cantabrica, dittany, and aristolochia, are also similarly used, one
drachma of the root of this last plant being taken every now and then
in a semisextarius of wine. It is very useful too, rubbed in with
vinegar, and the same is the case, also, with plistolochia:[745] indeed
it will be quite sufficient to suspend this last over the hearth, to
make all serpents leave the house.
CHAP. 56. (9.)—THE ARGEMONIA: FOUR REMEDIES.
The argemonia,[746] too, is remedial in such cases; the root of it
being taken, in doses of one denarius, in three cyathi of wine. It will
be as well, however, to enter into some further details in reference
to this plant and others, which I shall have occasion next to mention;
it being my intention first to describe, under each head, those plants
which are the most efficacious for the treatment of the affection under
consideration.
The argemonia has leaves like those of the anemone, but divided[747]
like those of parsley: the head grows upon a slender stem resembling
that of the wild poppy, and the root is also very similar to that of
the same plant. The juice is of a saffron colour, acrid and pungent:
the plant is commonly found in the fields of this country. Among us
there are three[748] varieties of it distinguished, the one being
the most highly approved of, the root of which smells[749] like
frankincense.[750]
CHAP. 57.—AGARIC: THIRTY-THREE REMEDIES.
Agaric[751] is found growing in the form of a fungus of a white colour,
upon the trees in the vicinity of the Bosporus. It is administered
in doses of four oboli, beaten up in two cyathi of oxymel. The kind
that grows in Galatia is generally looked upon as not so efficacious.
The male[752] agaric is firmer than the other, and more bitter; it is
productive too of head-ache. The female plant is of a looser texture;
it has a sweet taste at first, which speedily changes into a bitter
flavour.
CHAP. 58.—THE ECHIOS; THREE VARIETIES OF IT: TWO REMEDIES.
Of the echios there are two kinds; one[753] of which resembles
pennyroyal in appearance, and has a concave leaf. It is administered,
in doses of two drachmæ, in four cyathi of wine. The other[754] kind is
distinguished by a prickly down, and bears small heads resembling those
of vipers: it is usually taken in wine and vinegar. Some persons give
the name of “echios personata”[755] to a kind of echios with larger
leaves than the others, and burrs of considerable size, resembling that
of the lappa.[756] The root of this plant is boiled and administered in
vinegar. Henbane, pounded with the leaves on, is taken in wine, for
the sting of the asp in particular.
CHAP. 59.—HIERABOTANE, PERISTEREON, OR VERBENACA; TWO VARIETIES OF IT:
TEN REMEDIES.
But among the Romans there is no plant that enjoys a more
extended renown than hierabotane[757] known to some persons as
“peristereon,”[758] and among us more generally as “verbenaca.”[759] It
is this plant that we have already[760] mentioned as being borne in the
hands of envoys when treating with the enemy, with this that the table
of Jupiter is cleansed,[761] with this that houses are purified and due
expiation made. There are two varieties of it: the one that is thickly
covered with leaves[762] is thought to be the female plant; that with
fewer leaves,[763] the male. Both kinds have numerous thin branches, a
cubit in length, and of an angular form. The leaves are smaller than
those of the quercus, and narrower, with larger indentations. The
flower is of a grey colour, and the root is long and thin. This plant
is to be found growing everywhere, in level humid localities. Some
persons make no distinction between these two varieties, and look upon
them as identical, from the circumstance of their being productive of
precisely similar effects.
The people in the Gallic provinces make use of them both for
soothsaying purposes, and for the prediction of future events; but
it is the magicians more particularly that give utterance to such
ridiculous follies in reference to this plant. Persons, they tell us,
if they rub themselves with it will be sure to gain the object of their
desires; and they assure us that it keeps away fevers, conciliates
friendship, and is a cure for every possible disease; they say, too,
that it must be gathered about the rising of the Dog-star—but so as not
to be shone upon by sun or moon—and that honey-combs and honey must be
first presented to the earth by way of expiation. They tell us also
that a circle must first be traced around it with iron; after which
it must be taken up with the left hand, and raised aloft, care being
taken to dry the leaves, stem, and root, separately in the shade. To
these statements they add, that if the banqueting couch is sprinkled
with water in which it has been steeped, merriment and hilarity will be
greatly promoted thereby.
As a remedy for the stings of serpents, this plant is bruised in wine.
CHAP. 60.—THE BLATTARIA: ONE REMEDY.
There is a plant very similar in appearance to verbascum,[764] so
much so, indeed, as to be frequently gathered for it by mistake. The
leaves,[765] however, are not so white, the stems are more numerous,
and the flower is of a yellow colour. Thrown upon the ground, this
plant attracts black beetles[766] to it, whence its Roman appellation
“blattaria.”
CHAP. 61.—LEMONIUM: ONE REMEDY.
Lemonium[767] furnishes a milky juice, which thickens like gum. It
grows in moist, watery localities, and is generally administered, in
doses of one denarius, in wine.
CHAP. 62.—QUINQUEFOLIUM, KNOWN ALSO AS PENTAPETES, PENTAPHYLLON, OR
CHAMÆZELON: THIRTY-THREE REMEDIES.
There is no one to whom quinquefolium[768] is unknown, being
recommended by a sort of strawberry[769] which it bears: The Greeks
give it the name of pentapetes,[770] pentaphyllon,[770] and
chamæzelon.[771] The root, when taken up, is red; but as it dries it
becomes black and angular. Its name is derived from the number of its
leaves: it puts forth and withers with the leaves of the vine. This
plant also is employed in the purification of houses.
CHAP. 63.—THE SPARGANION: ONE REMEDY.
The root, too, of the plant known as the sparganion,[772] is taken in
white wine, as a remedy for the stings of serpents.
CHAP. 64.—FOUR VARIETIES OF THE DAUCUS: EIGHTEEN REMEDIES.
Petronius Diodotus has distinguished four kinds of daucus, which it
would be useless here to describe, the varieties being in reality but
two[773] in number. The most esteemed kind is that of Crete,[774] the
next best being the produce of Achaia, and of all dry localities. It
resembles fennel in appearance, only that its leaves are whiter, more
diminutive, and hairy on the surface. The stem is upright, and a foot
in length, and the root has a remarkably pleasant taste and smell. This
kind grows in stony localities with a southern aspect.
The inferior sorts are found growing everywhere, upon declivities for
instance, and in the hedges of fields, but always in a rich soil. The
leaves are like those of coriander,[775] the stem being a cubit in
length, the heads round, often three or more in number, and the root
ligneous, and good for nothing when dry. The seed of this kind is like
that of cummin, while that of the first kind bears a resemblance to
millet; in all cases it is white, acrid, hot, and odoriferous. The seed
of the second kind has more active properties than that of the first;
for which reason it should be used more sparingly.
If it is considered really desirable to recognize a third variety of
the daucus, there is a plant[776] of this nature very similar to the
staphylinos, known as the “pastinaca[777] erratica,” with an oblong
seed and a sweet root. Quadrupeds will touch none of these plants,
either in winter or in summer, except indeed, after abortion.[778]
The seed of the various kinds is used, with the exception of that of
Crete, in which case it is the root that is employed; this root being
particularly useful for the stings of serpents. The proper dose is one
drachma, taken in wine. It is administered also to cattle when stung by
those reptiles.
CHAP. 65.—THE THERIONARCA: TWO REMEDIES.
The therionarca, altogether a different plant from that of the
Magi,[779] grows in our own climates, and is a branchy plant, with
greenish leaves, and a rose-coloured flower. It has a deadly effect
upon serpents, and the very contact of it is sufficient to benumb[780]
a wild beast, of whatever kind it be.
CHAP. 66.—THE PERSOLATA OR ARCION; EIGHT REMEDIES.
The persolata,[781] a plant known to every one, and called “arcion” by
the Greeks, has a leaf, larger, thicker, more swarthy, and more hairy
than that of the gourd even, with a large white root. This plant also
is taken, in doses of two denarii, in wine.
CHAP. 67.—CYCLAMINOS OR TUBER TERRÆ: TWELVE REMEDIES.
So too, the root of cyclaminos[782] is good for injuries inflicted
by serpents of all kinds. It has leaves smaller than those of ivy,
thinner, more swarthy, destitute of angles, and covered with whitish
spots. The stem is thin and hollow, the flowers of a purple colour,
and the root large and covered with a black rind; so much so, in fact,
that it might almost be taken for the root of rape. This plant grows
in umbrageous localities, and by the people of our country is known as
the “tuber terræ.”[783] It ought to be grown in every house, if there
is any truth in the assertion that wherever it grows, noxious spells
can have no effect. This plant is also what is called an “amulet;” and
taken in wine, they say, it produces all the symptoms and appearances
of intoxication. The root is dried, cut in pieces, like the squill,
and put away for keeping. When wanted, a decoction is made of it, of
the consistency of honey. Still, however, it has some deleterious[784]
properties; and a pregnant woman, it is said, if she passes over the
root of it, will be sure to miscarry.
CHAP. 68.—THE CYCLAMINOS CISSANTHEMOS: FOUR REMEDIES.
There is also another kind of cyclaminos, known by the additional name
of “cissanthemos;”[785] the stems of it, which are jointed, are good
for nothing. It is altogether different from the preceding plant, and
entwines around the trunks of trees. It bears a berry similar to that
of the ivy, but soft; and the flower is white and pleasing to the
sight. The root is never used. The berries are the only part of it in
use, being of an acrid, viscous taste. They are dried in the shade,
after which they are pounded and divided into lozenges.
CHAP. 69.—THE CYCLAMINOS CHAMÆCISSOS: THREE REMEDIES.
A third kind[786] of cyclaminos has also been shown to me, the
additional name of which is “chamæcissos.” It consists of but a single
leaf, with a branchy root, formerly employed for killing fish.
CHAP. 70.—PEUCEDANUM: TWENTY-EIGHT REMEDIES.
But in the very first rank among these plants, stands peucedanum,[787]
the most esteemed kind of which is that of Arcadia, the next best being
that of Samothrace, The stem resembles that of fennel, is thin and
long, covered with leaves close to the ground, and terminating in a
thick black juicy root, with a powerful smell. It grows on umbrageous
mountains, and is taken up at the end of autumn. The largest and
tenderest roots are the most esteemed; they are cut with bone-knives
into slips four fingers in length, and left to shed their juice[788] in
the shade; the persons employed taking the precaution of rubbing the
head and nostrils with rose-oil, as a preservative against vertigo.
There is also another kind of juice, which adheres to the stems, and
exudes from incisions made therein. It is considered best when it has
arrived at the consistency of honey: the colour of it is red, and it
has a strong but agreeable smell, and a hot, acrid taste. This juice,
as well as the root and a decoction of it, enters into the composition
of numerous medicaments, but the juice has the most powerful properties
of the two. Diluted with bitter almonds or rue, it is taken in drink as
a remedy for injuries inflicted by serpents. Rubbed upon the body with
oil, it is a preservative against the attacks of those reptiles.
CHAP. 71. (10.)—EBULUM; SIX REMEDIES
A fumigation, too, of ebulum,[789] a plant known to every one, will put
serpents to flight.
CHAP. 72.—POLEMONIA: ONE REMEDY.
The root of polemonia,[790] even worn as an amulet only, is
particularly useful for repelling the attacks of scorpions, as also the
phalangium and other small insects of a venomous nature. For injuries
inflicted by the scorpion, aristolochia[791] is also used, or agaric,
in doses of four oboli to four cyathi of wine. For the bite of the
phalangium, vervain is employed, in combination with wine or oxycrate:
cinquefoil, too, and daucus, are used for a similar purpose.
CHAP. 73.—PHLOMOS OR VERBASCUM: FIFTEEN REMEDIES.
Verbascum has the name of “phlomos” with the Greeks. Of this plant
there are two principal kinds; the white,[792] which is considered to
be the male, and the black,[793] thought to be the female. There is a
third[794] kind, also, which is only found in the woods. The leaves of
these plants are larger than those of the cabbage, and have a hairy
surface: the stem is upright, and more than a cubit in height, and
the seed black, and never used. The root is single, and about the
thickness of the finger. The two principal kinds are found growing
in champaign localities. The wild verbascum has leaves like those of
elelisphacus,[795] but of an elongated form; the branches are ligneous.
CHAP. 74.—THE PHLOMIS: ONE REMEDY. THE LYCHNITIS OR THRYALLIS.
There are also two[796] varieties of the phlomis, hairy plants, with
rounded leaves, and but little elevated above the surface of the earth.
A third kind, again, is known as the “lychnitis”[797] by some persons,
and as the “thryallis” by others: it has three leaves only, or four
at the very utmost, thick and unctuous, and well adapted for making
wicks for lamps. The leaves of the phlomos which we have mentioned
as the female plant, if wrapped about figs, will preserve them most
efficiently from decay, it is said. It seems little better than a loss
of time to give the distinguishing characteristics of these three[798]
kinds, the effects of them all being precisely the same.
For injuries inflicted by scorpions, an infusion of the root is taken,
with rue, in water. Its bitterness is intense, but it is quite as
efficacious as the plants already mentioned.
CHAP. 75.—THE THELYPHONON OR SCORPIO: ONE REMEDY.
The thelyphonon[799] is a plant known as the “scorpio” to some, from
the peculiar form of its roots, the very touch of which kills[800] the
scorpion: hence it is that it is taken in drink for stings inflicted
by those reptiles. If a dead scorpion is rubbed with white hellebore,
it will come to life, they say. The thelyphonon is fatal to all
quadrupeds, on the application of the root to the genitals. The leaf
too, which bears a resemblance to that of cyclaminos, is productive of
a similar effect, in the course of the same day. It is a jointed plant,
and is found growing in unbrageous localities. Juice of betony or of
plantago is a preservative against the venom of the scorpion.
CHAP. 76.—THE PHRYNION, NEURAS, OR POTERION; ONE REMEDY.
Frogs, too, have their venom, the bramble-frog[801] in particular,
and I myself have seen the Psylli, in their exhibitions, irritate them
by placing them upon flat vessels made red hot,[802] their bite being
fatal more instantaneously than the sting even of the asp. One remedy
for their poison is the phrynion,[803] taken in wine, which has also
the additional names of “neuras”[804] and “poterion:” it bears a small
flower, and has numerous fibrous roots, with an agreeable smell.
CHAP. 77.—THE ALISMA, DAMASONION, OR LYRON: SEVENTEEN REMEDIES.
Similar too, are the properties of the alisma,[805] known to some
persons as the “damasonion,” and as the “lyron” to others. The leaves
of it would be exactly those of the plantago, were it not that they are
narrower, more jagged at the edges, and bent downwards in a greater
degree. In other respects, they present the same veined appearance as
those of the plantago. This plant has a single stem, slender, a cubit
in height, and terminated by a spreading head.[806] The roots of it
are numerous, thin like those of black hellebore, acrid, unctuous, and
odoriferous: it is found growing in watery localities.
There is another kind also, which grows in the woods, of a more swarthy
colour, and with larger leaves. The root of them both is used for
injuries inflicted by frogs and by the sea-hare,[807] in doses of one
drachma taken in wine. Cyclaminos, too, is an antidote for injuries
inflicted by the sea-hare.
The bite of the mad dog has certain venomous properties, as an antidote
to which we have the cynorrhodos, of which we have spoken[808]
elsewhere already. The plantago is useful for the bites of all kinds
of animals, either taken in drink or applied topically to the part
affected. Betony is taken on similar occasions, in old wine, unmixed.
CHAP. 78.—PERISTEREOS: SIX REMEDIES.
The name of peristereos[809] is given to a plant with a tall stem,
covered with leaves, and throwing out other stems from the top. It is
much sought by pigeons, to which circumstance it owes its name. Dogs
will never bark, they say, at persons who have this plant about them.
CHAP. 79.—REMEDIES AGAINST CERTAIN POISONS.
Closely approaching in their nature to these various kinds of poisons,
are those which have been devised by man for his own destruction.
In the number of antidotes to all these artificial poisons as well
as to the spells of sorcery, the very first place must be accorded
to the moly[810] of Homer; next to which come the mithridatia,[811]
scordotis,[812] and centaury. The seed of betony carries off all kinds
of noxious substances by stool; being taken for the purpose in honied
wine or raisin wine, or else pulverized, and taken, in doses of one
drachma, in four cyathi of old wine: in this last case, however, the
patient must bring it off the stomach by vomit and then repeat the
dose. Persons who accustom themselves to take this plant daily, will
never experience any injury, they say, from substances of a poisonous
nature.
When a person has taken poison, one most powerful remedy is
aristolochia,[813] taken in the same proportions as those used for
injuries inflicted by serpents.[814] The juice, too, of cinquefoil is
given for a similar purpose; and in both cases, after the patient has
vomited, agaric is administered, in doses of one denarius, in three
cyathi of hydromel.
CHAP. 80.—THE ANTIRRHINUM, ANARRHINON, OR LYCHNIS AGRIA: THREE REMEDIES.
The name of antirrhinum[815] or anarrhinon is given to the lychnis
agria,[816] a plant which resembles flax in appearance, is destitute
of root, has a flower like that of the hyacinth, and a seed similar
in form to the muzzle of a calf. According to what the magicians say,
persons who rub themselves with this plant improve their personal
appearance thereby; and they may ensure themselves against all noxious
substances and poisons, by wearing it as a bracelet.
CHAP. 81.—EUCLEA: ONE REMEDY.
The same is the case, too, with the plant to which they give the name
of “euclea,”[817] and which, they tell us, rubbed upon the person,
will ensure a more extended consideration. They say, too, that if a
person carries artemisia[818] about him, he will be ensured against all
noxious drugs, the attacks of wild beasts of every kind, and sunstroke
even. This last plant is taken also in wine, in cases of poisoning
by opium. Used as an amulet, or taken in drink, it is said to be
particularly efficacious for injuries inflicted by frogs.
CHAP. 82.—THE PERICARPUM; TWO VARIETIES OF IT: TWO REMEDIES.
The pericarpum is a kind of bulbous plant. There are two varieties of
it; one with a red[819] outer coat, and the other,[820] similar is
appearance to the black poppy, and possessed of greater virtues than
the first. They are both, however, of a warming nature, for which
reason, they are administered to persons who have taken hemlock, a
poison for which frankincense and panaces are used, chironion[821] in
particular. This last, too, is given in cases of poisoning by fungi.
CHAP. 83. (11.)—REMEDIES FOR DISEASES OF THE HEAD. NYMPHÆA HERACLIA:
TWO REMEDIES.
But we shall now proceed to point out the various classes of remedies
for the several parts of the body, and the maladies to which those
parts are subject, beginning in the first place with the head.
The root of nymphæa heraclia[822] effects the cure of alopecy, if they
are beaten up together,[823] and applied. The polythrix[824] differs
from the callitrichos[825] in having white, rushlike suckers, larger
leaves, and more numerous; the main stem,[826] too, is larger. This
plant strengthens the hair, prevents it from falling off, and makes it
grow more thickly
CHAP. 84.—THE LINGULACA: ONE REMEDY.
The same is the case too with the lingulaca,[827] a plant that grows
in the vicinity of springs, and the root of which is reduced to ashes,
and beaten up with hog’s lard. Due care must be taken, however, that
it is the lard of a female, of a black colour, and one that has never
farrowed. The application is rendered additionally efficacious, if the
ointment is applied in the sun. Root, too, of cyclaminos is employed
in the same manner for a similar purpose. A decoction of root of
hellebore in oil or in water is used for the removal of porrigo. For
the cure of head-ache, root of all kinds of panaces[828] is used,
beaten up in oil; as also aristolochia[829] and iberis,[830] this last
being applied to the head for an hour or more, if the patient can bear
it so long, care being taken to bathe m the meanwhile. The daucus, too,
is curative of head-ache. Cyclaminos,[831] introduced into the nostrils
with honey, clears the head; used in the form of a liniment, it heals
ulcers of the head. Peristereos,[832] also, is curative of diseases of
the head.
CHAP. 85.—THE CACALIA OR LEONTICE: THREE REMEDIES.
The name of “cacalia”[833] or “leontice” is given to a plant with seed
resembling small pearls in appearance, and hanging down between large
leaves: it is mostly found upon mountains. Fifteen grains of this seed
are macerated in oil, and the head is rubbed with the mixture, the
contrary way to the hair.
CHAP. 86.—THE CALLITRICHOS: ONE REMEDY.
A sternutatory, too, is prepared from the callitrichos.[834] The
leaves of this plant are similar to those of the lentil, and the stems
resemble fine rushes; the root is very diminutive. It grows in shady,
moist localities, and has a burning taste in the mouth.
CHAP. 87.—HYSSOP: TEN REMEDIES.
Hyssop,[835] beaten up in oil, is curative of phthiriasis and prurigo
of the head. The best hyssop is that of Mount Taurus in Cilicia, next
to which in quality is the produce of Pamphylia and Smyrna. This plant
is injurious to the stomach: taken with figs, it produces alvine
evacuations, and used in combination with honey, it acts as an emetic.
It is generally thought that, beaten up with honey, salt, and cummin,
it is curative of the stings of serpents.
CHAP. 88.—THE LONCHITIS: FOUR REMEDIES.
The lonchitis[836] is not, as most writers have imagined, the same
plant as the xiphion[837] or phasganion, although the seed of it does
bear a resemblance to the point of a spear. The lonchitis, in fact,
has leaves like those of the leek, of a reddish colour near the root,
and more numerous there than on the upper part of the stem. It bears
diminutive heads, which are very similar to our masks of comedy,
and from which a small tongue protrudes:[838] the roots of it are
remarkably long. It grows in thirsty, arid soils.
CHAP. 89.—THE XIPHION OR PHASGANION: FOUR REMEDIES.
The xiphion[839] or phasganion, on the other hand, is found growing in
humid localities. On first leaving the ground it has the appearance
of a sword; the stem of it is two cubits in length, and the root is
fringed like a hazel nut.[840]
This root should always be taken up before harvest, and dried in the
shade. The upper part of it, pounded with frankincense, and mixed with
an equal quantity of wine, extracts fractured bones of the cranium,
purulent matter in all parts of the body, and bones of serpents,[841]
when accidentally trodden upon; if is very efficacious, too, for
poisons. In cases of head-ache, the head should be rubbed with
hellebore, boiled and beaten up in olive oil, or oil of roses, or else
with peucedanum steeped in olive oil or rose oil, and vinegar. This
last plant, made lukewarm, is very good also for hemicrania[842] and
vertigo. It being of a heating nature, the body is rubbed with the root
as a sudorific.
CHAP. 90.—PSYLLION, CYNOÏDES, CRYSTALLION, SICELICON, OR CYNOMYIA;
SIXTEEN REMEDIES. THRYSELINUM: ONE REMEDY.
Psyllion,[843] cynoïdes, crystallion, sicelicon, or cynomyia, has a
slender root, of which no use is made, and numerous thin branches,
with seeds resembling those of the bean, at the extremities.[844] The
leaves of it are not unlike a dog’s head in shape;[845] and the seed,
which is enclosed in berries, bears a resemblance to a flea—whence its
name “psyllion.” This plant is generally found growing in vineyards,
is of a cooling nature, and is extremely efficacious as a dispellent.
The seed of it is the part made use of; for head-ache, it is applied
to the forehead and temples with rose oil and vinegar, or else with
oxycrate; it is used as a liniment for other purposes also. Mixed in
the proportion of one acetabulum to one sextarius of water, it is left
to coagulate and thicken; after which it is beaten up, and the thick
solution is used as a liniment for all kinds of pains, abscesses, and
inflammations.
Aristolochia is used as a remedy for wounds in the head; it has the
property, too, of extracting fractured bones, not only from other
parts of the body, but the cranium in particular. The same, too, with
plistolochia.
Thryselinum[846] is a plant not unlike parsley; the root of it, eaten,
carries off pituitous humours from the head.
CHAP. 91. (12.)—REMEDIES FOR DISEASES OF THE EYES.
It is generally thought that the greater centaury[847] strengthens
the sight, if the eyes are fomented with it steeped in water; and
that by employing the juice of the smaller kind, in combination with
honey, films and cloudiness may be dispersed, marks obliterated,
and small flies removed which have got into the eye. It is thought
also that sideritis is curative of albugo in beasts of burden. As
to chelidonia,[848] it is marvellously good for all the affections
above mentioned. Root of panaces[849] is applied, with polenta,[850]
to defluxions of the eyes; and for the purpose of keeping them down,
henbane-seed is taken, in doses of one obolus, with an equal proportion
of opium, in wine. Juice, too, of gentian is used as a liniment, and
it sometimes forms an ingredient in the more active eyesalves,[851]
as a substitute for meconium. Euphorbia,[852] applied in the form
of a liniment, improves the eyesight, and for ophthalmia juice of
plantago[853] is injected into the eyes.
Aristolochia disperses films upon the eyes; and iberis,[854] attached
to the head with cinquefoil, is curative of defluxions and other
diseases of the eyes. Verbascum[855] is applied topically to defluxions
of the eyes, and vervain is used for a similar purpose, with rose
oil and vinegar. For the treatment of cataract and dimness of sight,
cyclaminos is reduced to a pulp and divided into lozenges. Juice, too,
of peucedanum, as already mentioned,[856] mixed with meconium and oil
of roses, is good for the sight, and disperses films upon the eyes.
Psyllion,[857] applied to the forehead, arrests defluxions of the eyes.
CHAP. 92. (13.)—THE ANAGALLIS, OR CORCHORON; TWO VARIETIES OF IT: SIX
REMEDIES.
The anagallis is called “corchoron”[858] by some. There are two kinds
of it, the male[859] plant, with a red blossom, and the female,[860]
with a blue flower. These plants do not exceed a palm in height, and
have a tender stem, with diminutive leaves of a rounded form, drooping
upon the ground. They grow in gardens and in spots covered with water,
the blue anagallis being the first to blossom. The juice[861] of either
plant, applied with honey, disperses films upon the eyes, suffusions of
blood[862] in those organs resulting from blows, and argema[863] with
a red tinge: if used in combination with Attic honey, they are still
more efficacious. The anagallis has the effect also of dilating[864]
the pupil; hence the eye is anointed with it before the operation of
couching[865] for cataract. These plants are employed also for diseases
of the eyes in beasts of burden.
The juice, injected into the nostrils, which are then rinsed with
wine, acts as a detergent upon the head: it is taken also, in doses
of one drachma, in wine, for wounds inflicted by serpents. It is a
remarkable fact, that cattle will refuse to touch the female plant; but
if it should so happen that, deceived by the resemblance—the flower
being the only distinguishing mark—they have accidentally tasted it,
they immediately have recourse, as a remedy, to the plant called
“asyla,”[866] but more generally known among us as “ferus oculus.”[867]
Some persons recommend those who gather it, to prelude by saluting it
before sunrise, and then, before uttering another word, to take care
and extract the juice immediately; if this is done, they say, it will
be doubly efficacious.
As to the juice of euphorbia, we have spoken[868] of its properties
at sufficient length already. In cases of ophthalmia, attended with
swelling, it will be a good plan to apply wormwood beaten up with
honey, as well as powdered betony.
CHAP. 93.—THE ÆGILOPS: TWO REMEDIES.
The fistula of the eye, called “ægilops,” is cured by the agency of the
plant of the same name,[869] which grows among barley, and has a leaf
like that of wheat. The seed is pounded for the purpose, and applied
with meal; or else the juice is extracted from the stem and more pulpy
leaves, the ears being first removed. This juice is incorporated with
meal of three-month wheat, and divided into lozenges.
CHAP. 94.—MANDRAGORA, CIRCÆON, MORION, OR HIPPOPHLOMOS; TWO VARIETIES
OF IT: TWENTY-FOUR REMEDIES.
Some persons, too, were in the habit of employing mandragora for
diseases of the eyes; but more recently, the use of it for such a
purpose has been abandoned. It is a well-ascertained fact, however,
that the root, beaten up with rose oil and wine, is curative of
defluxions of the eyes and pains in those organs; and, indeed, the
juice of this plant still forms an ingredient in many medicaments for
the eyes. Some persons give it the name of “circæon.”[870] There are
two varieties, the white[871] mandragora, which is generally thought to
be the male plant, and the black,[872] which is considered to be the
female. It has a leaf narrower than that of the lettuce, a hairy stem,
and a double or triple root, black without and white within, soft and
fleshy, and nearly a cubit in length.
Both kinds bear a fruit about the size of a hazel-nut, enclosing a seed
resembling the pips of a pear in appearance. The name given to the
white plant by some persons is “arsen,”[873] by others “morion,”[874]
and by others again, “hippophlomos.” The leaves of it are white, while
those of the other one[875] are broader, and similar to those of
garden lapathum[876] in appearance. Persons, when about to gather this
plant, take every precaution not to have the wind blowing in their
face; and after tracing three circles round it with a sword, turn
towards the west and dig it up.[877] The juice is extracted both from
the fruit and from the stalk, the top being first removed; also from
the root, which is punctured for the purpose, or else a decoction is
made of it. The filaments, too, of the root are made use of, and it is
sometimes cut up into segments and kept in wine.
It is not the mandragora of every country that will yield a juice, but
where it does, it is about vintage time that it is collected: it has
in all cases a powerful odour, that of the root and fruit the most so.
The fruit is gathered when ripe, and dried in the shade; and the juice,
when extracted, is left to thicken in the sun. The same is the case,
too, with the juice of the root, which is extracted either by pounding
it or by boiling it down to one third in red wine. The leaves are best,
kept in brine; indeed, when fresh, the juice of them is a baneful
poison,[878] and these noxious properties are far from being entirely
removed, even when they are preserved in brine. The very odour of them
is highly oppressive to the head, although there are countries in which
the fruit is eaten. Persons ignorant of its properties are apt to be
struck dumb by the odour of this plant when in excess, and too strong a
dose of the juice is productive of fatal effects.
Administered in doses proportioned to the strength of the patient, this
juice has a narcotic effect; a middling dose being one cyathus. It is
given, too, for injuries inflicted by serpents, and before incisions or
punctures are made in the body, in order to ensure insensibility to
the pain.[879] Indeed, for this last purpose, with some persons, the
odour of it is quite sufficient to induce sleep. The juice is taken
also as a substitute for hellebore, in doses of two oboli, in honied
wine: hellebore, however, is more efficacious as an emetic, and as an
evacuant of black bile.
CHAP. 95.—HEMLOCK: THIRTEEN REMEDIES.
Hemlock,[880] too, is a poisonous plant, rendered odious by the
use made of it by the Athenian people, as an instrument of capital
punishment: still,[881] however, as it is employed for many useful
purposes, it must not be omitted. It is the seed that is noxious, the
stalk being eaten by many people, either green, or cooked[882] in the
saucepan. This stem is smooth, jointed like a reed, of a swarthy hue,
often as much as two cubits in height, and branchy at the top. The
leaves are like those of coriander, only softer, and possessed of a
powerful odour. The seed is more substantial than that of anise, and
the root is hollow and never used. The seed and leaves are possessed of
refrigerating properties; indeed, it is owing to these properties that
it is so fatal, the cold chills with which it is attended commencing
at the extremities. The great remedy[883] for it, provided it has not
reached the vitals, is wine, which is naturally of a warming tendency;
but if it is taken in wine, it is irremediably fatal.
A juice is extracted from the leaves and flowers; for it is at the
time of its blossoming that it is in its full vigour. The seed is
crushed, and the juice extracted from it is left to thicken in the
sun, and then divided into lozenges. This preparation proves fatal by
coagulating the blood—another deadly property which belongs to it; and
hence it is that the bodies of those who have been poisoned by it are
covered with spots. It is sometimes used in combination with water as
a medium for diluting certain medicaments. An emollient poultice is
also prepared from this juice, for the purpose of cooling the stomach;
but the principal use made of it is as a topical application, to
check defluxions of the eyes in summer, and to allay pains in those
organs. It is employed also as an ingredient in eyesalves, and is used
for arresting fluxes in other parts of the body: the leaves, too,
have a soothing effect upon all kinds of pains and tumours, and upon
defluxions of the eyes.
Anaxilaüs makes a statement to the effect, that if the mamillæ[884]
are rubbed with hemlock during virginity, they will always be hard
and firm: but a better-ascertained fact is, that applied[885] to
the mamillæ, it dries up the milk in women recently delivered; as
also that, applied to the testes at the age of puberty, it acts most
effectually as an antaphrodisiac.[886] As to those cases in which it
is recommended to take it internally as a remedy, I shall, for my own
part, decline to mention them. The most powerful hemlock is that grown
at Susa, in Parthia, the next best being the produce of Laconia, Crete,
and Asia.[887] In Greece, the hemlock of the finest quality is that of
Megara, and next to it, that of Attica.
CHAP. 96.—CRETHMOS AGRIOS: ONE REMEDY.
Crethmos agrios,[888] applied to the eyes, removes rheum; and, with the
addition of polenta, it causes tumours to disappear.
CHAP. 97.—MOLYBDÆNA: ONE REMEDY.
Molybdæna[889] also grows everywhere in the fields, a plant commonly
known as “plumbago.”[889] It has leaves like those of
lapathum,[890] and a thick, hairy root. Chewed and applied to the eye
from time to time, it removes the disease called “plum-bum,”[891] which
affects that organ.
CHAP. 98.—THE FIRST KIND OF CAPNOS, KNOWN ALSO AS CHICKEN’S FOOT: ONE
REMEDY.
The first kind of capnos,[892] known also as “chicken’s foot,”[893]
is found growing on walls and hedges: it has very thin, straggling
branches, with a purple blossom. It is used in a green state, and the
juice of it disperses films upon the eyes; hence it is that it is
employed as an ingredient in medicinal compositions for the eyes.
CHAP. 99.—THE ARBORESCENT CAPNOS: THREE REMEDIES.
There is another kind[894] of capnos also, similar both in name and
properties, but different in appearance. It is a branchy plant, is
extremely delicate, has leaves like those of coriander, is of an ashy
colour, and bears a purple flower: it grows in gardens, and amid
crops of barley. Employed in the form of an ointment for the eyes, it
improves the sight, producing tears in the same way that smoke does, to
which, in fact, it owes its name. It has the effect also of preventing
the eyelashes, when pulled out, from growing again.
CHAP. 100.—THE ACORON OR AGRION: FOURTEEN REMEDIES.
The acoron[895] has leaves similar to those of the iris,[896] only
narrower, and with a longer stalk; the roots of it are black, and not
so veined, but in other respects are similar to those of the iris, have
an acrid taste and a not unpleasant smell, and act as a carminative.
The best roots are those grown in Pontus, the next best those of
Galatia, and the next those of Crete; but it is in Colchis, on the
banks of the river Phasis, and in various other watery localities, that
they are found in the greatest abundance. When fresh, they have a more
powerful odour than when kept for some time: these of Crete are more
blanched than the produce of Pontus. They are cut into pieces about a
finger in length, and dried in leather bags[897] in the shade.
There are some authors who give the name of “acoron” to the root of
the oxymyrsine;[898] for which reason also some prefer giving that
plant the name of “acorion.” It has powerful properties as a calorific
and resolvent, and is taken in drink for cataract and films upon the
eyes; the juice also is extracted, and taken for injuries inflicted by
serpents.
CHAP. 101.—THE COTYLEDON: TWO VARIETIES OF IT: SIXTY-ONE REMEDIES.
The cotyledon[899] is a small herbaceous plant, with a diminutive,
tender stem, and an unctuous leaf, with a concave surface like that
of the cotyloïd cavity of the thigh. It grows in maritime and rocky
localities, is of a green colour, and has a rounded root like an olive:
the juice of it is remedial for diseases of the eyes.
There is another[900] kind also of the same plant, the leaves of which
are of a dirty green[901] colour, larger than those of the other, and
growing in greater numbers about the root, which is surrounded with
them just as the eye is with the socket. These leaves have a remarkably
astringent taste, and the stem is of considerable length, but extremely
slender. This plant is employed for the same purposes as the iris and
aizoüm.
CHAP. 102.—THE GREATER AIZOÜM, ALSO CALLED BUPHTHALMOS, ZOÖPHTHALMOS,
STERGETHRON, HYPOGESON, AMBROSION, AMERIMNON, SEDUM MAGNUM, OR
DIGITELLUS: THIRTY-SIX REMEDIES. THE SMALLER AIZOÜM, ALSO CALLED
ERITHALES, TRITHALES, CHRYSOTHALES, ISOËTES OR SEDUM: THIRTY-TWO
REMEDIES.
Of the plant known as aizoüm[902] there are two kinds; the larger
of which is sown in earthen pots. By some persons it is known as
“buphthalmos,”[903] and by others as “zoöphthalmos,” or else as
“stergethron,” because it forms an ingredient in the composition
of philtres. Another name given to it is “hypogeson,” from the
circumstance that it generally grows upon the eaves[904] of houses:
some persons, again, give it the names of “ambrosion” and “amerimnon.”
In Italy it is known as “sedum magnum,”[905] “oculus,” or “digitellus.”
The other kind[906] of aizoüm is more diminutive, and is known by some
persons as “erithales”[907] and by others as “trithales,” from the
circumstance that it blossoms three times in the year. Other names
given to it are “chrysothales”[908] and “isoëtes:”[909] but aizoüm is
the common appellation of them both, from their being always green.
The larger kind exceeds a cubit in height, and is somewhat thicker
than the thumb: at the extremity, the leaves are similar to a tongue
in shape, and are fleshy, unctuous, full of juice, and about as broad
as a person’s thumb. Some are bent downwards towards the ground, while
others again stand upright, the outline of them resembling an eye in
shape. The smaller kind grows upon walls, old rubbish of houses, and
tiled roofs; it is branchy from the root, and covered with leaves to
the extremity. These leaves are narrow, pointed, and juicy: the stem is
a palm in height, and the root is never used.
CHAP. 103.—THE ANDRACHLE AGRIA OR ILLECEBRA: THIRTY-TWO REMEDIES.
A similar plant is that known to the Greeks by the name of “andrachle
agria,”[910] and by the people of Italy as the “illecebra.” Its
leaves, though small, are larger than those of the last-named plant,
but growing on a shorter stem. It grows in craggy localities, and is
gathered for use as food. All these plants have the same properties,
being cooling and astringent. The leaves, applied topically, or the
juice, in form of a liniment, are curative of defluxions of the eyes:
this juice too acts as a detergent upon ulcers of the eyes, makes new
flesh, and causes them to cicatrize; it[911] cleanses the eyelids also
of viscous matter. Applied to the temples, both the leaves and the
juice of these plants are remedial for head-ache; they neutralize the
venom also of the phalangium; and the greater aizoüm, in particular, is
an antidote to aconite. It is asserted, too, that those who carry this
last plant about them will never be stung by the scorpion.
These plants are curative of pains in the ears; which is the case
also with juice of henbane, applied in moderate quantities, of
achillea,[912] of the smaller centaury and plantago, of peucedanum
in combination with rose-oil and opium, and of acoron[913] mixed
with rose-leaves. In all these cases, the liquid is made warm, and
introduced into the ear with the aid of a syringe.[914] The cotyledon
is good, too, for suppurations in the ears, mixed with deer’s marrow
made hot. The juice of pounded root of ebulum[915] is strained through
a linen cloth, and then left to thicken in the sun: when wanted for
use, it is moistened with oil of roses, and made hot, being employed
for the cure of imposthumes of the parotid glands. Vervain and
plantago are likewise used for the cure of the same malady, as also
sideritis,[916] mixed with stale axle-grease.
CHAP. 104.—A REMEDY FOR DISEASES OF THE NOSTRILS.
Aristolochia,[917] mixed with cyperus,[918] is curative of polypus of
the nose.[919]
CHAP. 105.—REMEDIES FOR DISEASES OF THE TEETH.
The following are remedies for diseases of the teeth: root of
panaces,[920] chewed, that of the chironion in particular, and juice
of panaces, used as a collutory; root, too, of henbane, chewed with
vinegar, and root of polemonia.[921] The root of plantago is chewed for
a similar purpose, or the teeth, are rinsed with a decoction of the
juice mixed with vinegar. The leaves, too, are said to be useful for
the gums, when swollen with sanious blood, or if there are discharges
of blood therefrom. The seed, too, of plantago is a cure for abscesses
in the gums, and for gum-boils. Aristolochia has a strengthening effect
upon the gums and teeth; and the same with vervain, either chewed with
the root of that plant, or boiled in wine and vinegar, the decoction
being employed as a gargle. The same is the case, also, with root of
cinquefoil, boiled down to one third, in wine or vinegar; before it is
boiled, however, the root should be washed in sea or salt water: the
decoction, too, must be kept a considerable time in the mouth. Some
persons prefer cleaning the teeth with ashes of cinquefoil.
Root of verbascum[922] is also boiled in wine, and the decoction used
for rinsing the teeth. The same is done too with hyssop and juice
of peucedanum, mixed with opium; or else the juice of the root of
anagallis,[923] the female plant in particular, is injected into the
nostril on the opposite side to that in which the pain is felt.
CHAP. 106.—ERIGERON, PAPPUS, ACANTHIS, OR SENECIO: EIGHT REMEDIES.
Erigeron[924] is called by our people “senecio.” It is said that if
a person, after tracing around this plant with an implement of iron,
takes it up and touches the tooth affected with it three times, taking
care to spit each time on the ground, and then replaces it in the same
spot, so as to take root again, he will never experience any further
pain in that tooth. This plant has just the appearance and softness
of trixago,[925] with a number of small reddish-coloured stems: it is
found growing upon walls, and the tiled roofs of houses. The Greeks
have given it the name of “erigeron,”[926] because it is white in
spring. The head is divided into numerous downy filaments, which
resemble those of the thorn,[927] protruding from between the divisions
of the head: hence it is that Callimachus has given it the name of
“acanthis,”[928] while others, again, call it “pappus.[929]”
After all, however, the Greek writers are by no means agreed as to this
plant; some say, for instance, that it has leaves like those of rocket,
while others maintain that they resemble those of the robur, only that
they are considerably smaller. Some, again, assert that the root is
useless, while others aver that it is beneficial for the sinews, and
others that it produces suffocation, if taken in drink. On the other
hand, some have prescribed it in wine, for jaundice and all affections
of the bladder, heart, and liver, and give it as their opinion that it
carries off gravel from the kidneys. It has been prescribed, also, by
them for sciatica, the patient taking one drachma in oxymel, after a
walk; and has been recommended as extremely useful for griping pains
in the bowels, taken in raisin wine. They assert, also, that used as
an aliment with vinegar, it is wholesome for the thoracic organs, and
recommend it to be grown in the garden for these several purposes.
In addition to this, there are some authorities to be found, which
distinguish another variety of this plant, but without mentioning its
peculiar characteristics. This last they recommend to be taken in
water, to neutralize the venom of serpents, and prescribe it to be
eaten for the cure of epilepsy. For my own part, however, I shall only
speak of it in accordance with the uses made of it among us Romans,
uses based upon the results of actual experience. The down of this
plant, beaten up with saffron and a little cold water, is applied to
defluxions of the eyes; parched with a little salt, it is employed for
the cure of scrofulous sores.
CHAP. 107.—THE EPHEMERON: TWO REMEDIES.
The ephemeron[930] has leaves like those of the lily, but smaller; a
stem of the same height, a blue flower, and a seed of which no use is
made. The root is single, about the thickness of one’s finger, and an
excellent remedy for diseases of the teeth; for which purpose it is
cut up in pieces, and boiled in vinegar, the decoction being used warm
as a collutory. The root, too, is employed by itself to strengthen
the teeth, being inserted for the purpose in those that are hollow or
carious.
Root of chelidonia[931] is also beaten up with vinegar, and kept in the
mouth. Black hellebore is sometimes inserted in carious teeth; and a
decoction of either of these last-mentioned plants, in vinegar, has the
effect of strengthening loose teeth.
CHAP. 108.—THE LABRUM VENEREUM: ONE REMEDY.
Labrum Venereum[932] is the name given to a plant that grows in running
streams.[933] It produces a small worm,[934] which is crushed by being
rubbed upon the teeth, or else enclosed in wax and inserted in the
hollow of the tooth. Care must be taken, however, that the plant, when
pulled up, does not touch the ground.
CHAP. 109.—THE BATRACHION, RANUNCULUS, OR STRUMUS; FOUR VARIETIES OF
IT: FOURTEEN REMEDIES.
The plant known to the Greeks as “batrachion,”[935] we call
ranunculus.[936] There are four varieties of it,[937] one of which
has leaves somewhat thicker than those of coriander, nearly the size
of those of the mallow, and of a livid hue: the stem of the plant is
long and slender, and the root white; it grows on moist and well-shaded
embankments. The second[938] kind is more foliated than the preceding
one, the leaves have more numerous incisions, and the stems of the
plant are long. The third[939] variety is smaller than the others, has
a powerful smell, and a flower of a golden colour. The fourth[940] kind
is very like the one last mentioned, but the flower is milk-white.
All these plants have caustic properties: if the leaves are applied
unboiled, they raise blisters like those caused by the action of fire;
hence it is that they are used for the removal of leprous spots,
itch-scabs, and brand marks upon the skin. They form an ingredient also
in all caustic preparations, and are applied for the cure of alopecy,
care being taken to remove them very speedily. The root, if chewed for
some time, in cases of tooth-ache, will cause[941] the teeth to break;
dried and pulverized, it acts as a sternutatory.
Our herbalists give this plant the name of “strumus,” from the
circumstance of its being curative of strumous[942] sores and inflamed
tumours, for which purpose a portion of it is hung up in the smoke.
It is a general belief, too, with them, that if it is replanted, the
malady so cured will reappear[943]—a criminal practice, for which the
plantago is also employed. The juice of this last-mentioned plant is
curative of internal ulcerations of the mouth; and the leaves and root
are chewed for a similar purpose, even when the mouth is suffering
from defluxions. Cinquefoil effects the cure of ulcerations and
offensive breath; psyllium[944] is used also for ulcers of the mouth.
CHAP. 110.—REMEDIAL PREPARATIONS FOR OFFENSIVE BREATH: TWO KINDS OF
THEM.
We shall also here make mention of certain preparations for the cure of
offensive breath—a most noisome inconvenience. For this purpose, leaves
of myrtle and lentisk are taken in equal proportions, with one half
the quantity of Syrian nut-galls; they are then pounded together and
sprinkled with old wine, and the composition is chewed in the morning.
In similar cases, also, ivy berries are used, in combination with
cassia and myrrh; these ingredients being mixed, in equal proportions,
with wine.
For offensive odours of the nostrils, even though attended with
carcinoma, the most effectual remedy is seed of dracontium[945] beaten
up with honey. An application of hyssop has the effect of making
bruises disappear. Brand marks[946] in the face are healed by rubbing
them with mandragora.[947]
SUMMARY.—Remedies, narratives, and observations, twelve hundred and
ninety-two.
ROMAN AUTHORS QUOTED.—C. Valgius,[948] Pompeius Lenæus,[949] Sextius
Niger[950] who wrote in Greek, Julius Bassus[951] who wrote in Greek,
Antonius Castor,[952] Cornelius Celsus,[953] Fabianus.[954]
FOREIGN AUTHORS QUOTED.—Theophrastus,[955] Apollodorus,[956]
Democritus,[957] Juba,[958] Orpheus,[959] Pythagoras,[960] Mago,[961]
Menander[962] who wrote the “Biochresta,” Nicander,[963] Homer,
Hesiod,[964] Musæus,[965] Sophocles,[966] Xanthus,[967] Anaxilaüs.[968]
MEDICAL AUTHORS QUOTED.—Mnesitheus,[969] Callimachus,[970] Phanias[971]
the physician, Timaristus,[972] Simus,[973] Hippocrates,[974]
Chrysippus,[975] Diocles,[976] Ophelion,[977] Heraclides,[978]
Hicesius,[979] Dionysius,[980] Apollodorus[981] of Citium,
Apollodorus[982] of Tarentum, Praxagoras,[983] Plistonicus,[984]
Medius,[985] Dieuches,[986] Cleophantus,[987] Philistion,[988]
Asclepiades,[989] Crateuas,[990] Petronius Diodotus,[991] Iollas,[992]
Erasistratus,[993] Diagoras,[994] Andreas,[995] Mnesides,[996]
Epicharmus,[997] Damion,[998] Sosimenes,[999] Tlepolemus,[1000]
Metrodorus,[1001] Solon,[1002] Lycus,[1003] Olympias[1004] of Thebes,
Philinus,[1005] Petrichus,[1006] Micton,[1007] Glaucias,[1008]
Xenocrates.[1009]