BOOK XXVII.

A DESCRIPTION OF PLANTS, AND OF THE REMEDIES DERIVED FROM THEM.

CHAP. 1. (1.)—RESEARCHES OF THE ANCIENTS UPON THIS SUBJECT.

The further I proceed in this work, the more I am impressed with

admiration of the ancients; and the greater the number of plants that

remain to be described, the more I am induced to venerate the zeal

displayed by the men of former times in their researches, and the

kindly spirit manifested by them in transmitting to us the results

thereof. Indeed their bounteousness in this respect would almost seem

to have surpassed the munificent disposition even of Nature herself,

if our knowledge of plants had depended solely upon man’s spirit of

discovery: but as it is, it is evident beyond all doubt that this

knowledge has emanated from the gods themselves, or, at all events, has

been the result of divine inspiration, even in those cases where man

has been instrumental in communicating it to us. In other words, if

we must confess the truth—a marvel surpassed by nothing in our daily

experience—Nature herself, that common parent of all things, has at

once produced them, and has discovered to us their properties.

Wondrous indeed is it, that a Scythian[1708] plant should be brought

from the shores of the Palus Mæotis, and the euphorbia[1709] from

Mount Atlas and the regions beyond the Pillars of Hercules, localities

where the operations of Nature have reached their utmost limit! That

in another direction, the plant britannica[1710] should be conveyed

to us from isles of the Ocean situate beyond the confines of the

earth![1711] That the æthiopis[1712] should reach us from a climate

scorched by the luminaries of heaven! And then, in addition to all

this, that there should be a perpetual interchange going on between

all parts of the earth, of productions so instrumental to the welfare

of mankind! Results, all of them, ensured to us by the peace that

reigns under the majestic sway of the Roman power, a peace which brings

in presence of each other, not individuals only, belonging to lands

and nations far separate, but mountains even, and heights towering

above the clouds, their plants and their various productions! That

this great bounteousness of the gods may know no end, is my prayer, a

bounteousness which seems to have granted the Roman sway as a second

luminary for the benefit of mankind.

CHAP. 2. (2.)—ACONITE, OTHERWISE CALLED THELYPHONON, CAMMARON,

PARDALIANCHES, OR SCORPIO; FOUR REMEDIES.

But who, I say, can sufficiently venerate the zeal and spirit of

research displayed by the ancients? It is they who have shown us that

aconite is the most prompt of all poisons in its effects—so much so

indeed, that female animals, if the sexual parts[1713] are but touched

with it, will not survive a single day. With this poison it was that M.

Cæcilius[1714] accused Calpurnius Bestia of killing his wives in their

sleep, and this it was that gave rise to that fearful peroration of

his, denouncing the murderous finger of the accused.[1715] According

to the fables of mythology, this plant was originally produced from

the foam of the dog Cerberus, when dragged by Hercules from the

Infernal[1716] Regions; for which reason, it is said, it is still so

remarkably abundant in the vicinity of Heraclea in Pontus, a spot where

the entrance is still pointed out to the shades below.

And yet, noxious as it is, the ancients have shown us how to employ

aconite for the benefit of mankind, and have taught us as the result

of their experience, that, taken in mulled wine, it neutralizes the

venom of the scorpion: indeed such is the nature of this deadly plant,

that it kills man, unless it can find in man something else to kill.

When such is the case, as though it had discovered in the body a fit

rival to contend with, that substance is the sole object of its attack;

finding another poison in the viscera, to it alone it confines its

onslaught; and thus, a truly marvellous thing! two poisons, each of

them of a deadly nature, destroy one another within the body, and the

man survives. Even more than this, the ancients have handed down to

us remedies employed by the animals themselves, and have shown how

that venomous creatures even effect their own cure. By the contact of

aconite the scorpion is struck with torpor,[1717] is quite benumbed,

assumes a pallid hue, and so confesses itself vanquished. When this is

the case, white hellebore is its great auxiliary: the very touch of it

dispels its torpor, and the aconite is forced to yield before two foes,

its own enemy[1718] and the common[1719] enemy of all.

Now, after this, if any one should be of opinion that man could, by

any chance or possibility, make such discoveries as these, he must

surely be guilty of ingratitude in thus appreciating the beneficence of

the gods! In countries frequented by the panther, they rub meat with

aconite, and if one of those animals should but taste it, its effects

are fatal: indeed were not these means adopted, the country would soon

be over-run by them. It is for this reason, too, that some persons have

given to hellebore the name of “pardalianches.”[1720] It has been well

ascertained, however, that the panther instantaneously recovers if it

can find the opportunity of eating human ordure.[1721] So far as these

animals are concerned, who can entertain a doubt that it was chance

only that first led them to this discovery; and that as often as this

happens the discovery is only a mere repetition of the accident, there

being neither reason nor an appreciation of experience to ensure its

transmission among them?

(3.) It is chance,[1722] yes, it is chance that is the Deity who has

made to us these numerous revelations for our practical benefit;[1723]

always understanding that under this name we mean Nature, that great

parent and mistress of all things: and this is evident, whether we come

to the conclusion, that these wild beasts make the discovery from day

to day, or that they are gifted from the first with these powers of

perception. Regarded in another point of view, it really is a disgrace

that all animated beings should have an exact knowledge of what is

beneficial to them, with the exception of man!

The ancients, openly professing their belief that there is no evil

without some admixture of good, have asserted that aconite is a

remarkably useful ingredient in compositions for the eyes. It may

therefore be permitted me, though I have hitherto omitted a description

of the poisonous plants, to point out the characteristics of aconite,

if only that it may be the more easily detected. Aconite[1724] has

leaves like those of cyclaminos[1725] or of the cucumber, never more

than four in number, slightly hairy, and rising from near the root.

This root, which is of moderate size, resembles the sea-fish known

as the “cammarus,”[1726] a circumstance owing to which the plant has

received the name of “cammaron” from some; while others, for the

reason already[1727] mentioned, have called it “thelyphonon.”[1728]

The root is slightly curved, like a scorpion’s tail, for which reason

some persons have given it the name of “scorpio.” Others, again, have

preferred giving it the name of “myoctonon,”[1729] from the fact that

the odour of it kills mice at a considerable distance even.

This plant is found growing upon the naked rocks known as

“aconæ;”[1730] and hence it is, according to some authorities, that

it is called “aconitum,” there being not so much as dust even about it

to conduce to its nutriment. Such is the reason given for its name by

some: but according to others, it receives this appellation from the

fact that it fatally exercises the same effects upon the body that the

whetstone[1731] does upon the edge of iron, being no sooner employed

than its effects are felt.

CHAP. 3. (4.)—ÆTHIOPIS: FOUR REMEDIES.

Æthiopis[1732] is a plant with leaves resembling those of

phlomos,[1733] large, numerous, hairy, and springing from the root. The

stem is square, rough, similar to that of arction[1734] in appearance,

and with numerous axillary concavities. The seed resembles that of the

fitch, being white and twofold; the roots are several in number, long,

fleshy, soft, and of a viscous taste; when dry they turn black and

hard, and might easily be taken for horns. In addition to Æthiopia,

this plant grows upon Mount Ida in Troas, and in Messenia. The roots

are gathered in autumn, and left to dry for some days in the sun, to

prevent them from turning mouldy. Taken in white wine they are curative

of affections of the uterus, and a decoction of them is administered

for sciatica, pleurisy, and eruptions of the throat. The kind, however,

which comes from Æthiopia, is by far the best, and gives instantaneous

relief.

CHAP. 4.—AGERATON: FOUR REMEDIES.

Ageraton[1735] is a ferulaceous plant, a couple of palms in height,

similar to origanum[1736] in appearance, and bearing flowers like

balls of gold. Used as a fumigation, this plant acts as a diuretic;

and as a detergent upon the uterus, when used in a sitting bath more

particularly. Its name has been given to it, from the circumstance that

it keeps a very long time without fading.

CHAP. 5.—THE ALOE; TWENTY-NINE REMEDIES.

The aloe[1737] bears a resemblance to the squill, except that it

is larger, and has more substantial leaves, with streaks running

obliquely. The stem is tender, red in the middle, and not unlike that

of the anthericus.[1738] It has a single root, which runs straight

downwards, like a stake driven into the ground; its smell is powerful,

and it has a bitter taste. The most esteemed aloes are those imported

from India, but it grows in the Asiatic provinces[1739] as well. This

last kind, however, is never used, except that the leaves are applied

fresh to wounds; indeed, these leaves, as well as the juice, are

glutinous to a marvellous degree, and it is for this property that it

is grown in vessels of a conical form, in the same way as the greater

aizoüm.[1740] Some persons make incisions in the stem to obtain the

juice, before the seed is ripe, while others, again, make them in the

leaves as well. Tearlike drops are also found adhering to it, which

exude spontaneously: hence it is that some recommend that the place

should be paved where it is grown, to prevent this juice from being

absorbed.

Some authors have stated, that there is found in Judæa, beyond

Hierosolyma, a mineral[1741] aloe, but that it is inferior to the other

kinds, being of a darker colour and more humid than any of the rest.

Aloes[1742] of the finest quality should be unctuous and shining, of a

red colour, brittle, compact, like the substance of liver, and easily

liquefied. That which is hard and black should be rejected; the same,

too, when it is mixed with sand or adulterated with gum and acacia, a

fraud which, may be easily detected by the taste.

This plant is of an astringent nature, binding, and slightly

calorific. It is employed for numerous purposes, but principally as a

purgative,[1743] it being almost the only one of all the medicaments

which produce that effect, that is at the same time a good stomachic,

and does not exercise the slightest noxious influence upon the stomach.

It is taken in doses of one drachma, and, in cases of derangement

of the stomach, it is administered two or three times a day, in the

proportion of one spoonful to two cyathi of warm or cold water, at

intervals, according to the nature of the emergency. As a purgative

it is mostly taken in doses of three drachmæ; and it operates still

more efficaciously, if food is eaten directly afterwards. Used with

astringent wine, it prevents[1744] the hair from falling off, the head

being rubbed with it the contrary way of the hair, in the sun. Applied

to the temples and forehead, with rose oil and vinegar, or used as an

infusion, in a more diluted form, it allays head-ache. It is generally

agreed that it is remedial for all diseases[1745] of the eyes, but more

particularly for prurigo and scaly eruptions of the eye-lids; as also

for marks and bruises, applied in combination with honey, Pontic honey

in particular.

It is employed, also, for affections of the tonsillary glands and gums,

for all ulcerations of the mouth, and for spitting of blood, if not

in excess—the proper dose being one drachma, taken in water or else

vinegar. Used by itself, or in combination, with vinegar, it arrests

hæmorrhage, whether proceeding from wounds or from other causes. In

addition to these properties, it is extremely efficacious for the cure

of wounds, producing cicatrization very rapidly: it is sprinkled also

upon ulcerations of the male organs, and is applied to condylomata

and chaps of the fundament, either in common wine, raisin wine, or

by itself in a dry state, according as a mollifying or restrictive

treatment is required. It has the effect, also, of gently arresting

hæmorrhoidal bleeding, when in excess. In cases of dysentery, it is

used as an injection, and where the digestion is imperfect it is taken

shortly after the evening meal. For jaundice, it is administered in

doses of three oboli, in water. As a purgative for the bowels, it is

taken in pills, with boiled honey or turpentine. It is good also for

the removal of hangnails. When employed in ophthalmic preparations, it

is first washed, that the more gravelly portions of it may subside; or

else it is put over the fire in a pipkin, and stirred with a feather

from time to time, that the whole of it may be equally warmed.

CHAP. 6.—ALCEA: ONE REMEDY.

Alcea[1746] is a plant with leaves, resembling those of vervain,[1747]

known also as “peristereon,” some three or four stems covered with

leaves, a flower like that of the rose, and white roots, at most six in

number, a cubit in length, and running obliquely. It grows in a soil

that is rich without being dry. The root is given in wine or water, for

dysentery, diarrhœa, ruptures, and convulsions.

CHAP. 7.—THE ALYPON: ONE REMEDY.

The alypon[1748] has a small stem, with a soft head, and is not unlike

beet in appearance. It has an acrid, viscous taste, extremely pungent

and burning. Taken in hydromel, with a little salt, it acts as a

purgative. The smallest dose is two drachmæ, a moderate dose, four,

and the largest, six. When used as a purgative, it is taken in chicken

broth.

CHAP. 8.—ALSINE, A PLANT USED FOR THE SAME PURPOSES AS HELXINE: FIVE

REMEDIES.

Alsine,[1749] a plant known as “myosoton”[1750] to some, grows in the

woods, to which fact it is indebted for its name of “alsine.”[1751]

It begins to make its appearance at mid-winter, and withers in the

middle of summer. When it first puts forth, the leaves bear a strong

resemblance to the ears of mice. We shall have occasion,[1752]

however, to speak of another plant which may, with much more justice,

be called “myosotis.” As for alsine, it would be the same thing as

helxine,[1753] were it not that it is smaller and not so hairy. It

grows in[1754] gardens and upon walls more particularly: when rubbed,

it emits a smell like that of cucumber. It is used for abscesses,

inflammations, and all those purposes for which helxine is employed;

its properties, however, are not so active. It is applied topically,

also, to defluxions of the eyes, and to sores upon the generative

organs, and ulcerations, with barley meal. The juice is used as an

injection for the ears.

CHAP. 9.—THE ANDROSACES: SIX REMEDIES.

The androsaces[1755] is a white plant, bitter, without leaves, and

bearing arms surmounted with follicules, containing the seed. It grows

in the maritime parts of Syria, more particularly. This plant is

administered for dropsy, in doses of two drachmæ, pounded or boiled,

in either water, wine, or vinegar: it acts most powerfully as a

diuretic. It is used also for gout, either taken internally or used as

a liniment. The seed is possessed of similar properties.

CHAP. 10.—ANDROSÆMON OR ASCYRON: SIX REMEDIES.

Androsæmon[1756] or, as some persons call it, “ascyron,” is not

unlike hypericon, a plant of which we have spoken already:[1757] the

stems, however, are larger, redder, and lie more closely together.

The leaves are of a white colour, and like those of rue in shape; the

seed resembles that of the black poppy, and the upper branches, when

bruised, emit a red juice the colour of blood: these branches have also

a resinous smell.

This plant grows in vineyards, and it is usually in the middle of

autumn that it is taken up and hung to dry. Used as a purgative, it

is bruised with the seed, and taken in the morning or just after the

evening meal, in doses of two drachmæ, in hydromel, wine, or pure

water, the draught amounting to one sextarius in all. It carries off

bile, and is particularly good for sciatica; but in this last case,

caper root must be taken with resin the day after, the dose being one

drachma, to be repeated every four days: after being purged, it is the

practice for the patient, if in robust health, to take wine, but if in

a weak state of body, water. It is employed topically, also, for gout,

burns, and wounds, as it tends to arrest the flow of blood.

CHAP. 11.—AMBROSIA, BOTRYS, OR ARTEMISIA: THREE REMEDIES.

Ambrosia is a vague name, which has fluctuated between various

plants: there is one,[1758] however, which has been more particularly

designated by this appellation, a branchy, shrub-like plant, with a

thin stem, some three palms in height; the root of it is one third

shorter, and the leaves, towards the lower part of the stem, resemble

those of rue. Its diminutive branches bear a seed which hangs down in

clusters, and has a vinous smell: hence it is that by some persons

the plant is called “botrys,”[1759] while to others it is known as

“artemisia.” The people of Cappadocia use it for garlands. It is

employed in medicine as a resolvent.

CHAP. 12.—THE ANONIS OR ONONIS: FIVE REMEDIES.

The anonis,[1760] by some called “ononis” in preference, is a branchy

plant, and similar to fenugreek in appearance, except that it is more

shrub-like and more hairy. It has an agreeable smell, and becomes

prickly after spring. It is pickled in brine for eating. Applied

fresh to ulcers, it cauterizes the margins of them. For the cure of

tooth-ache, the root is boiled in oxycrate: taken in drink, with honey,

the root expels urinary calculi. For epilepsy, it is administered in

oxymel, boiled down to one half.

CHAP. 13.—THE ANAGYROS OR ACOPON: THREE REMEDIES.

The anagyros, known to some by the name of “acopon,”[1761] is a

shrub-like plant, with an offensive smell, and a blossom like that of

the cabbage. The seed grows in small hornlike pods of considerable

length and resembles a kidney in shape; it hardens about the time of

harvest. The leaves of this plant are applied to gatherings, and are

attached to the person in cases of difficult parturition, care being

taken to remove them the moment after delivery. In cases where the

extraction of the dead fœtus is attended with difficulty, or where the

after-birth or catamenia are retarded, the leaves are taken, in doses

of one drachma, in raisin wine. The leaves are administered in the same

manner for asthma: they are prescribed also in old wine, for injuries

inflicted by the phalangium.[1762] The root is employed medicinally as

a resolvent and maturative: the seed, chewed, acts as an emetic.

CHAP. 14.—THE ANONYMOS: TWO REMEDIES.

The anonymos,[1763] through not having a name, has at last found

one.[1764] It is brought from Scythia, and has been highly extolled

by Hicesius, a physician of no small repute, as also by Aristogiton.

Bruised in water and applied, it is remarkably useful for wounds, and

taken in drink it is good for blows upon the chest or mamillæ, as also

for spitting of blood: it has been thought, too, that it might be

advantageously taken in a potion for wounds. I am of opinion that the

additional statement, to the effect that, burnt fresh, it acts as a

solder to iron or copper, is wholly fabulous.

CHAP. 15. (5.)—APARINE, OMPHALOCARPOS, OR PHILANTHROPOS: THREE REMEDIES.

Aparine,[1765] otherwise called “omphalocarpos”[1766] or

“philanthropos,”[1767] is a ramose, hairy, plant, with five or six

leaves at regular intervals, arranged circularly around the branches.

The seed is round, hard, concave, and of a sweetish taste. It grows

in cornfields, gardens, and meadows, and, by the aid of its prickly

points, adheres to the clothes. The seed is employed to neutralize the

venom of serpents, being taken in doses of one drachma, in wine: it is

useful also for the bite of the phalangium.[1768] The leaves, applied

topically, arrest hæmorrhage from wounds. The juice is used as an

injection for the ears.

CHAP. 16.—THE ARCTION OR ARCTURUM: FIVE REMEDIES.

The arction[1769] is by some called “arcturum” in preference: the

leaves of it are like those of verbascum,[1770] except that they are

more hairy; the stem is long and soft, and the seed resembles that of

cummin. It grows in rocky localities, and has a tender root, white

and sweet. A decoction of it is made with wine for tooth-ache, being

retained for that purpose in the mouth. The plant is taken in drink

for sciatica and strangury, and is applied with wine to burns and

chilblains, which are fomented also with the root and seed bruised in

wine.

CHAP. 17.—THE ASPLENON OR HEMIONION: TWO REMEDIES.

Some persons call the asplenon[1771] by the name of “hemionion.”[1772]

It has numerous leaves, a third of a foot in length, and a slimy

root, pierced with holes like that of fern, white, and hairy. It is

destitute of stem, flower, and seed,[1773] and is found growing upon

rocks or sheltered damp walls. The most approved kind is that of Crete.

A decoction of the leaves in vinegar, taken in drink for a period of

thirty days, will consume the spleen, it is said, the leaves being

applied simultaneously. The leaves give relief also in hiccup. This

plant should never be given to females, being productive of sterility.

CHAP. 18.—THE ASCLEPIAS: TWO REMEDIES.

The asclepias[1774] has leaves like those of ivy,[1775] long branches,

and numerous roots, thin, and odoriferous. The flower has a strong

offensive smell, and the seed is like that of securidaca:[1776] it is

found growing in mountainous districts. The roots are used for the cure

of griping pains in the bowels, and of stings inflicted by serpents,

either taken in drink or applied topically.

CHAP. 19.—THE ASTER OR BUBONION: THREE REMEDIES.

The aster[1777] is called “bubonion” by some, from the circumstance

of its being a sovereign remedy for diseases of the groin. It has a

diminutive stem with oblong leaves, two or three in number; and at the

summit it is surmounted with small radiated heads, like stars. This

plant is taken also in drink as an antidote to the venom of serpents:

but if required for the cure of inguinal complaints, it is recommended

that it should be gathered with the left hand, and attached to the body

near the girdle. It is of great service also, worn as an amulet, for

sciatica.

CHAP. 20.—ASCYRON AND ASCYROÏDES: THREE REMEDIES.

Ascyron[1778] and ascyroïdes are plants similar to one another,

and to hypericon[1779] as well, except that the plant known as

“ascyroïdes”[1780] has larger branches, ferulaceous, red all over,

and bearing small yellow heads. The seed, enclosed in small calyces,

is diminutive, black, and resinous. The tops of the branches, when

bruised, stain like blood; for which reason some persons have given

it the name of “androsæmon.”[1781] The seed is used for the cure of

sciatica, being taken in doses of two drachmæ, in one sextarius of

hydromel. It relaxes the bowels, and carries off bile: it is applied

also to burns.

CHAP. 21.—THE APHACA: THREE REMEDIES.

The aphaca[1782] has remarkably diminutive leaves, and is but little

taller than the lentil. The pods are of a larger size, and enclose

some three or four seeds, of a darker colour, moister, and more

diminutive than those of the lentil: it grows in cultivated fields. It

is naturally more astringent than the lentil, but in other respects

is applied to much the same purposes. The seed, used in a decoction,

arrests fluxes of the stomach and bowels.

CHAP. 22.—ALCIBIUM: ONE REMEDY.

I have not found it stated by authors what kind of plant alcibium[1783]

is; but the root, I find, and the leaves, are pounded and employed,

both externally and internally, for injuries inflicted by serpents.

When the leaves are used, a handful of them is bruised in three cyathi

of undiluted wine: the root is employed in the proportion of three

drachmæ to the same quantity of wine.

CHAP. 23.—ALECTOROSLOPHOS OR CRISTA: TWO REMEDIES.

Alectoroslophos,[1784] or crista,[1785] as we call it, has numerous

leaves resembling a cock’s comb, a thin stem, and a black seed enclosed

in pods. Boiled with broken beans and honey, it is useful for cough

and for films upon the eyes. The seed, too, is sprinkled whole into

the eyes, and so far is it from injuring them, that it attracts and

collects the filmy matter. When thus used, it changes colour, and from

black becomes white, gradually swells, and comes out of itself.

CHAP. 24. (6.)—ALUM, ALSO CALLED SYMPHYTON PETRÆON: FOURTEEN REMEDIES.

The plant which we call “alum,”[1786] and which is known to the Greeks

as “symphyton[1787] petræon,” is similar to cunila bubula[1788] in

appearance, having a diminutive leaf and three or four branches

springing from the root, with tops like those of thyme. It is a

ligneous plant, odoriferous, of a sweet flavour, and provocative of

saliva: the root of it is long and red. It grows upon rocks, to which

circumstance it is indebted for its additional name of “petræon;” and

is extremely useful[1789] for affections of the sides and kidneys,

griping pains in the bowels, diseases of the chest and lungs, spitting

of blood, and eruptions of the fauces. The root is pounded and taken in

drink, or else a decoction is made of it in wine; sometimes, also, it

is applied externally. Chewed, it allays thirst, and is particularly

refreshing to the pulmonary organs. It is employed topically for

sprains and contusions, and has a soothing effect upon the intestines.

Cooked upon hot ashes, with the follicules removed, and then beaten up

with nine peppercorns and taken in water, it acts astringently upon the

bowels. For the cure of wounds it is remarkably efficacious, being

possessed of agglutinating[1790] properties to such a remarkable degree

as to solder pieces of meat together with which it is boiled; to which,

in fact, it is indebted for its Greek name.[1791] It is used also for

the cure of fractured bones.

CHAP. 25. (7.)—ALGA RUFA OR RED SEA-WEED: ONE REMEDY.

Red sea-weed[1792] is useful as an application for the sting of the

scorpion.

CHAP. 26.—ACTÆA: ONE REMEDY.

Actæa[1793] has leaves with a powerful smell, rough knotted stems, a

black seed like that of ivy, and soft berries. It grows in umbrageous,

rugged, watery localities; and is used, in doses of one full

acetabulum, for female complaints.

CHAP. 27.—THE AMPELOS AGRIA, OR WILD VINE: FOUR REMEDIES.

Ampelos agria, or wild vine, is the name of a plant with leaves of

an ashy colour, as already[1794] stated in our description of the

cultivated plants, and long, tough twigs of a red hue, like that of the

flower which we have mentioned,[1795] when speaking of violets, under

the name of “flame of Jove.” It bears a seed which resembles the grains

of the pomegranate. The root, boiled in three cyathi of water, with

the addition of two cyathi of Coan wine, is slightly laxative to the

bowels, and is consequently given for dropsy. It is curative also of

uterine affections, and of spots upon the face in females. It is found

a good plan for patients afflicted with sciatica to use the juice of

this plant, bruised, applied topically, with the leaves.

CHAP. 28.—ABSINTHIUM OR WORMWOOD; FOUR VARIETIES: FORTY-EIGHT REMEDIES.

There are numerous kinds of absinthium; the Santonic,[1796] for

instance, so called from a city in Gaul, and the Pontic,[1797] which

comes from Pontus, where the cattle are fattened upon it—a diet which

causes them to be destitute of gall.[1798] The Pontic wormwood, we may

remark, is of the finest quality, superior to that of Italy,[1799] and

much more bitter; the pith, however, of the Pontic wormwood is sweet.

As to its general utility, a plant so commonly found and applied to

such numerous uses, people are universally agreed; but with the Romans

more particularly it has been always held in the highest esteem, from

the fact of its being employed in their religious ceremonials. Thus,

for instance, upon the Latin[1800] Festival, it is the custom to have

a race of four-horsed chariots in the Capital, and for the conqueror

to be presented with a draught of wormwood; from the circumstance, no

doubt, that our forefathers were of opinion that good health was the

most valuable reward they could bestow upon his skill.

This plant is very strengthening to the stomach, and hence it is that

wines are flavoured with it, as already[1801] stated. A decoction of

it in water is also taken, the following being the method employed in

preparing it. Six drachmæ of the leaves are boiled, with the branches,

in three sextarii of rain water, and the preparation is then left to

cool in the open air a day and a night. Salt, too, should be added to

it. When old, it is utterly useless. A dilution of wormwood steeped

in water is also used, such being the name[1802] given to this method

of preparing it. This dilution is made by leaving the vessel covered

up for three days, any kind of water being used. Pounded wormwood is

but rarely employed, and the same with the extracted juice of the

seed.[1803] In cases, however, where it is extracted, the seed is

subjected to pressure as soon as it begins to swell, after which it

is soaked for three days in water, if used fresh, and seven, if dry.

It is then boiled in a copper vessel, in the proportion of ten heminæ

to forty-five sextarii of water, after which it is strained off and

boiled gently to the consistency of honey, in the same way as the

juice is extracted from the smaller centaury. The juice, however, of

wormwood, thus extracted, is bad for the head and stomach; whereas the

decoction, on the other hand, is wholesome in the highest degree, as

it acts astringently upon the stomach, carries off bile, is a powerful

diuretic, has a soothing effect upon the bowels, and assuages pains in

the intestines. With the addition of sile,[1804] Gallic nard, and a

little vinegar, it dispels nausea and flatulency, and expels intestinal

worms. It removes qualmishness, promotes the digestion, and, with the

addition of rue, pepper, and salt, disperses crudities of the stomach.

The ancients were in the habit of giving wormwood as a purgative,

the dose being six drachmæ of the seed with three of salt and one

cyathus of honey, in one sextarius of sea water kept for some time.

This preparation, however, is rendered more efficacious by doubling

the proportion of salt; the seed, too, must be bruised with the

greatest care, as there is considerable difficulty in pounding it. Some

authorities have prescribed the dose above mentioned to be given in

polenta,[1805] with the addition of pennyroyal; while others recommend

the leaves to be given to children in a dried fig, to disguise their

bitterness. Taken with iris,[1806] wormwood acts as a detergent upon

the thoracic organs: for jaundice it is used raw, with parsley or

adiantum.[1807] In cases of flatulency, it is sipped every now and

then, warmed in water; for liver complaints it is taken with Gallic

nard, and for diseases of the spleen, with vinegar, pap,[1808] or

figs. Taken in vinegar it neutralizes the bad effects of fungi and of

viscus:[1809] in wine it is an antidote to the poison of hemlock, and

to the bite of the shrew-mouse, and is curative of wounds inflicted

by the sea-dragon[1810] and the scorpion. It contributes also very

greatly to the improvement of the sight, and is used as an external

application, with raisin wine, for defluxions of the eyes, and with

honey, for bruises.

The steam of a decoction of wormwood is curative of affections of

the ears; and when they are attacked with running sores, a liniment

of wormwood bruised with honey is applied. Three or four sprigs of

wormwood, with one root of Gallic nard, taken in six cyathi of water,

act as a diuretic and as an emmenagogue; indeed, if taken with honey,

or employed as a pessary with wool, it has especial virtues as an

emmenagogue. In combination with honey and nitre it is useful for

quinzy, and an infusion of it in water is good for epinyctis. A topical

application is made of it for recent wounds, provided always they have

not been touched with water: it is employed also for ulcers upon the

head. In combination with Cyprian wax or figs, it is highly recommended

as a plaster for the iliac regions: it is curative also of prurigo,

but it must never be administered in fevers. Taken in drink, it is a

preventive of sea sickness; and, worn attached to the body, beneath an

apron, it arrests inguinal swellings. The smell of it[1811] induces

sleep, a similar effect being produced by placing it under the pillow

unknown to the party. Kept among clothes it preserves them from worms,

and used as a liniment, with oil, or burnt as a fumigation, it has the

effect of driving away gnats.

Writing ink, mixed with an infusion of wormwood, effectually protects

the writings from the attacks of mice. Ashes of wormwood, mixed with

rose unguent, stain the hair black.

CHAP. 29.—ABSINTHIUM MARINUM OR SERIPHUM.

There is a sea wormwood[1812] also, known as “seriphum” by some, the

most esteemed being that of Taposiris in Egypt. Those initiated in the

mysteries of Isis carry a branch of it in the hand. It has a narrower

leaf than the preceding plant, and is not so bitter; it is injurious

to the stomach, has a laxative effect upon the bowels, and expels

intestinal worms. It is taken in drink with oil and salt; or else an

infusion of it is taken in a pottage made of meal of three-month wheat.

When employed as a decoction, a handful is used to one sextarius of

water, the mixture being boiled down to one half.

CHAP. 30. (8.)—THE BALLOTES, MELAMPRASION, OR BLACK LEEK: THREE

REMEDIES.

The Greeks give to the ballotes[1813] the other name of “melamprasion,”

meaning “black leek.”[1814] It is a branchy plant, with black angular

stems, covered with hairy leaves, larger and darker than those of the

leek,[1815] and possessed of a powerful smell. The leaves, bruised and

applied with salt, are highly efficacious for bites inflicted by dogs:

cooked upon hot ashes and applied in a cabbage leaf, they are curative

of condylomata. Mixed with honey, this plant acts as a detergent upon

sordid ulcers.

CHAP. 31.—BOTRYS, AMBROSIA, OR ARTEMISIA: ONE REMEDY.

Botrys[1816] is a shrublike plant, which has small yellow branches,

with the seed growing all round them, and leaves resembling[1817] those

of endive. It is found upon the banks of running streams, and is used

for the cure of hardness of breathing. The people of Cappadocia call

this plant “ambrosia,” others again, “artemisia.”

CHAP. 32.—THE BRABYLA: ONE REMEDY.

The brabyla[1818] is possessed of astringent properties like those of

the quince, but beyond this, authors give no particulars relative to it.

CHAP. 33.—BRYON MARITIMUM: FIVE REMEDIES.

Sea bryon[1819] is a plant, no doubt,[1820] with leaves like those

of the lettuce, of a wrinkled, pursed appearance, and destitute of

stem, the leaves arising from a single root: it grows upon rocks more

particularly, and shells sunk in the sand. It has desiccative[1821] and

astringent qualities in a very high degree, properties which render it

useful for reducing all kinds of abscesses and inflammations, those

attendant upon gout in particular. It is good also for all affections

which stand in need of cooling applications.

CHAP. 34.—THE BUPLEURON: ONE REMEDY.

I find it stated that seed of bupleuron[1822] is given for injuries

inflicted by serpents; and that the wound is fomented with a decoction

of the plant, in combination with leaves of the mulberry or of

origanum.[1823]

CHAP. 35.—THE CATANANCE; ONE OBSERVATION UPON IT. THE CEMOS: ONE

OBSERVATION UPON IT.

The catanance[1824] is a Thessalian plant, which it would be a mere

loss of time to describe, seeing that it is only used as an ingredient

in philtres. In order, however, to expose the follies of the magical

art, it may not be out of place to remark that this plant has been

selected for the above-named purpose, from the fact that, as it

withers, it gradually contracts and assumes the shape of the claws of a

dead kite.[1825]

For a similar reason we shall give no description of the plant called

“cemos.”[1826]

CHAP. 36.—THE CALYX: THREE REMEDIES.

Of the calyx[1827] there are two kinds. One of these resembles arum,

and is found growing in ploughed soils; the proper time for gathering

it being before it begins to wither. It is employed for the same

purposes as arum;[1828] and an infusion of the root is taken as a

purgative and as an emmenagogue. The stalks, boiled with the leaves and

some pulse, are curative of tenesmus.

CHAP. 37.—THE CALYX, KNOWN ALSO AS ANCHUSA OK ONOCLÏA: TWO REMEDIES.

The other[1829] kind of calyx is known by some persons as “anchusa,”

and by others as “onoclia.” The leaves are like those of the lettuce,

but longer, and with a downy surface. The root is red, and is employed

topically, in combination with fine polenta,[1830] for the cure of

erysipelas: taken internally with white wine, it is good for affections

of the liver.

CHAP. 38.—THE CIRCÆA: THREE REMEDIES.

The circæa[1831] resembles the cultivated trychnon[1832] in appearance.

It has a small swarthy flower, a diminutive seed, like millet, growing

in small horn-shaped pods, and a root half a foot in length, generally

triple or fourfold, white, odoriferous, and hot in the mouth. It is

found growing upon rocks exposed to the sun. An infusion of it is

prepared with wine, and administered for pains and affections of the

uterus: to make it, three ounces of the pounded root should be steeped

in three sextarii of wine a day and a night. This potion is effectual

also for bringing away the after-birth. The seed of this plant, taken

in wine or hydromel, diminishes the milk in nursing women.

CHAP. 39.—THE CIRSION: ONE REMEDY.

The cirsion[1833] is a plant consisting of a diminutive and delicate

stem, two cubits in height, of a triangular form, and covered with

prickly leaves. The prickles on the leaves are downy, and the leaves

themselves resemble those of buglossos[1834] in shape, but are smaller,

and of a whitish colour. At the summit of the plant there are small

purple heads, which fall off in the shape of down. This plant or the

root of it, worn as an amulet, it is said, is curative of the pains

attendant upon varicose veins.

CHAP. 40.—THE CRATÆGONON; TWO KINDS OF IT: EIGHT REMEDIES.

The cratægonon[1835] is similar to an ear of corn in appearance. It is

formed of numerous shoots, springing from a single root, and full of

joints. It grows in umbrageous localities, and has a seed like that of

millet, with a remarkably acrid taste. If a man and woman, before the

evening meal, take three oboli of this seed in three cyathi of water,

for forty days consecutively, before the conception of their issue, it

will be sure to be of the male[1836] sex, they say.

There is another cratægonon, known also as “thelygonos,”[1837] and

distinguished from the last mentioned plant by the mildness of the

taste. Some persons assert that females, if they take the blossom of

this plant in drink, will be sure to conceive before the end of forty

days. These plants, used in combination with honey, are curative of

black ulcers of a chronic nature; they also fill the concavities made

by fistulous ulcers with new flesh, and restore such parts of the body

as are wasted by atrophy. They act as a detergent upon purulent sores,

disperse inflammatory tumours, and alleviate gout and all kind of

abscesses, those of the mamillæ in particular.

Under the name of “cratægos”[1838] or “cratægon,” Theophrastus[1839]

speaks of the tree known in Italy as the “aquifolia.”

CHAP. 41.—THE CROCODILEON: TWO REMEDIES.

The crocodileon[1840] resembles the black chamæleon[1841] in shape:

the root is long, of an uniform thickness, and possessed of a pungent

smell. It is found growing in sandy soils. Taken in drink, it causes a

copious discharge of coagulated blood at the nostrils, and in this way,

it is said, diminishes the volume of the spleen.

CHAP. 42.—THE CYNOSORCHIS OR ORCHIS: FOUR REMEDIES.

The cynosorchis,[1842] by some called “orchis,” has leaves like[1843]

those of the olive, soft, three in number, half a foot in length, and

lying upon the ground. The root is bulbous, oblong, and divided into

two portions,[1844] the upper one hard, and the lower one soft. These

roots are eaten boiled, like bulbs,[1845] and are mostly found growing

in vineyards. If males eat the upper part, they will be parents of

male issue, they say, and females, if they eat the lower part, of

female. In Thessaly, the men take the soft portion in goats’ milk as an

aphrodisiac, and the hard part as an antaphrodisiac. Of these parts,

the one effectually neutralizes the action of the other.[1846]

CHAP. 43.—THE CHRYSOLACHANUM; TWO VARIETIES OF IT: THREE REMEDIES.

COAGULUM TERRÆ: TWO REMEDIES.

The chrysolachanum[1847] grows in pine plantations, and is similar to

the lettuce in appearance. It heals wounds of the sinews, if applied

without delay. There is another kind[1848] of chrysolachanum mentioned,

with a golden flower, and a leaf like that of the cabbage: it is boiled

and eaten as a laxative vegetable. This plant, worn as an amulet by a

patient suffering from jaundice, provided it be always kept in sight,

is a cure for that disease, it is said. I am not certain whether this

is all that might be said about the chrysolachanum, but, at all events,

it is all that I have found respecting it; for it is a very general

fault on the part of our more recent herbalists, to confine their

account of plants to the mere name, with a very meagre description of

the peculiar features of the plant,—just as though, forsooth, they were

universally known. Thus, they tell us, for instance, that a plant known

as “coagulum[1849] terræ,” acts astringently upon the bowels, and that

it dispels strangury, taken in water or in wine.

CHAP. 44.—THE CUCUBALUS, STRUMUS, OR STRYCHNON: SIX REMEDIES.

The leaves of the cucubalus,[1850] they tell us, bruised with vinegar,

are curative of the stings of serpents and of scorpions. Some persons

call this plant by the name of “strumus,”[1851] while others give it

the Greek name of “strychnon:” its berries are black. The juice of

these berries, administered in doses of one cyathus, in two cyathi of

honied wine, is curative of lumbago; an infusion of them with rose

oil is used for headache, and they are employed as an application for

scrofulous sores.

CHAP. 45.—THE CONFERVA: TWO REMEDIES.

The conferva[1852] is peculiar to running streams, those of

the Alpine regions more particularly; receiving its name from

“conferrumino,”[1853] to solder together. Properly speaking, it is

rather a fresh-water sponge than a moss or a plant, being a dense,

porous mass of filaments. I know an instance where a man, who fell

to the ground while lopping a tree of considerable height, and broke

nearly every bone of his body, was cured by the agency of this plant.

The patient’s body was covered all over with conferva, the application

being continually sprinkled with water the moment it began to dry, and

only removed for the purpose of changing it when the plant gave signs

of losing its virtues.[1854] It is hardly credible with what rapidity

he recovered.

CHAP. 46. (9.)—THE COCCUS CNIDIUS, OR GRAIN OF CNIDOS: TWO REMEDIES.

The Cnidian grain[1855] has just the colour of the kermes berry.[1856]

It is larger than a peppercorn, and has very heating properties: hence

it is that when used, it is taken in crumb of bread, that it may not

burn the throat in passing downwards. It is a sovereign remedy for

hemlock, and arrests[1857] looseness of the bowels.

CHAP. 47.—THE DIPSACOS: TWO REMEDIES.

The dipsacos[1858] has leaves like those of the lettuce, with prickly

tubercles on the middle of the back. The stem of it, two cubits in

length, is bristling all over with prickles of a similar nature. The

joints of the stem are closely covered with two leaves, which form a

concave axil in which a saltish dew-like liquid collects.[1859] At the

summit of the stem there are small heads covered with prickles: it

grows in watery localities.

This plant is used for the cure of chaps of the fundament and of

fistula; in which latter case the root is boiled down in wine to the

consistency of wax, to allow of its being introduced into the fistula

in the form of a salve.[1860] It is employed too, for the cure of all

kinds of warts: as a liniment for which, the juice collected in the

axils, as above mentioned, is also used by some.

CHAP. 48.—THE DRYOPTERIS: TWO REMEDIES.

The dryopteris,[1861] which resembles fern in appearance, is found

growing upon trees; the leaves are of a somewhat sweetish[1862] flavour

and marked with slight indentations, and the root is hairy. This plant

is possessed of caustic properties,[1863] and hence the root is pounded

and used as a depilatory. In using it the skin is rubbed with it till

perspiration is excited, the operation being repeated a second and a

third time, care being taken not to remove the perspiration.

CHAP. 49.—THE DRYOPHONON.

The dryophonon[1864] is a similar plant, with thin stems a cubit in

length, and surrounded on either side with leaves about as large as the

thumb and like those of the oxymyrsine[1865] in appearance, only whiter

and softer: the blossom is white, and similar to that of the elder. The

shoots of it are eaten boiled, and the seed is used as a substitute for

pepper.

CHAP. 50.—THE ELATINE: TWO REMEDIES.

The elatine[1866] has leaves like those of the helxine,[1867]

diminutive, round, and hairy; its branches are small, half a foot in

length, five or six in number, and covered with leaves from the root

upwards. It grows in corn-fields, and has a rough flavour: hence it is

found very useful for defluxions of the eyes, the leaves being beaten

up and applied with polenta[1868] in a linen pledget. A decoction of

this plant with linseed, taken in pottage, is good for dysentery.

CHAP. 51.—EMPETROS, BY OUR PEOPLE CALLED CALCIFRAGA: FOUR REMEDIES.

Empetros,[1869] by the people of our country called “calcifraga,”[1870]

grows on mountains near the sea, and is generally found upon rocks:

the nearer it grows to the sea the salter it is, acting as an evacuant

of bile and pituitous secretions. That, on the other hand, which grows

at a greater distance and more inland, is of a more bitter flavour.

It carries off the aqueous humours of the body, being taken for that

purpose in broth of some kind, or else hydromel. When old, it loses its

strength; but used fresh, either boiled in water or pounded, it acts as

a diuretic, and disperses urinary calculi. Authorities who wish full

credence to be given to this asserted property, assure us that pebbles

boiled with it will split asunder.

CHAP. 52.—THE EPIPACTIS OR ELLEBORINE: TWO REMEDIES.

The epipactis,[1871] called “elleborine” by some, is a diminutive plant

with small leaves. Taken in drink, it is extremely useful for diseases

of the liver, and as an antidote to poisons.

CHAP. 53.—THE EPIMEDION: THREE REMEDIES.

The epimedion[1872] consists of a stem of moderate size, with ten or

twelve leaves like those of ivy: it never flowers, and has a thin,

black root, with a powerful smell. It grows in humid soils. This plant

also has certain astringent and cooling properties, but females must be

on their guard[1873] against it. The leaves, beaten up in wine, prevent

the bosom from growing too large in young girls.

CHAP. 54.—THE ENNEAPHYLLON: TWO REMEDIES.

The enneaphyllon[1874] has nine long leaves, and is of a caustic

nature. It is employed topically, but when used it is wrapped in wool

to prevent it from cauterising further than desirable, for it blisters

immediately. For lumbago and sciatica it is of the greatest utility.

CHAP. 55.—TWO VARIETIES OF FILIX OR FERN, KNOWN TO THE GREEKS AS

PTERIS, OR BLACHNON, AND AS THELYPTERIS, OR NYMPHÆ PTERIS: ELEVEN

REMEDIES.

Of fern there are two varieties, equally destitute of blossom and

of seed.[1875] The Greeks give the name of “pteris,” and sometimes

“blachnon,” to the kind[1876] in which numerous shoots take their rise

from a single root, exceeding two cubits even in length, and with a not

unpleasant smell:[1877] this plant is thought to be the male fern.

The other kind is known to the Greeks as “thelypteris,”[1878]

and sometimes, “nymphæa pteris:” it has a single stem only, with

comparatively few branches, is shorter, softer, and more tufted than

the other, and has channelled leaves growing near the root. Swine are

fattened upon the roots of either kind. The leaves of both kinds are

arranged on either side in the form of wings, whence the Greek name

“pteris.” The roots are long, run obliquely, and are of a swarthy

colour, more particularly when dried: when wanted for use, they should

be dried in the sun. These plants are found growing everywhere, but

in cold soils more particularly; they should be taken up, too, at

the setting of the Vergiliæ.[1879] The root is only used at the end

of three years, neither before that period nor after. They act as an

expellent of intestinal worms; for tapeworm[1880] honey is taken with

them, but in other cases sweet wine, for three days.

They are, both of them, extremely detrimental to the stomach, but

are laxative to the bowels, carrying off first the bile and then the

aqueous humours of the body. When used for tapeworm, it is the best

plan to take scammony with them, in equal proportions. For rheumatic

defluxions, the root is taken in doses of two oboli, in water, after

a day’s abstinence from food, a little honey being taken first.

Neither kind must ever be given to females; for in pregnancy they are

productive of abortion, and in other cases entail sterility. Powdered

fern is sprinkled upon sordid ulcers, as also upon the necks of beasts

of burden, when chafed. Fern-leaves kill bugs, and serpents will never

harbour among them: hence it is a good plan to strew them in places

where the presence of those reptiles is suspected. The very smell, too,

of burnt fern will put serpents to flight. Medical men have made this

distinction as to ferns; that of Macedonia, they say, is the best, and

that of Cassiope the next.

CHAP. 56.—FEMUR BUBULUM, OR OX THIGH.

The name of femur bubulum[1881] is given to a plant which is good for

the sinews, applied fresh, and beaten up with salt and vinegar.

CHAP. 57.—GALEOPSIS, GALEOBDOLON, OR GALION: SIX REMEDIES.

Galeopsis,[1882] or as some call it, “galeobdolon” or “galion,” is a

plant with a stem and leaves like those of the nettle, only smaller;

and which, when bruised, emit a powerful smell. The flower is purple,

and the plant is found growing everywhere, about hedges and foot-paths.

The leaves and stems, bruised in vinegar, and applied topically, are

curative of indurations, carcinomata, and scrofulous sores. They

disperse also inflammatory tumours and imposthumes of the parotid

glands, and it is found a useful plan to foment the parts affected

with a decoction of them. Applied with salt, this plant is curative of

putrid ulcers and gangrenous sores.

CHAP. 58.—THE GLAUX: ONE REMEDY.

The glaux[1883] was known in ancient times as the “eugalacton.”[1884]

In the leaves it resembles the cytisus and the lentil, only that they

are whiter beneath. The branches, five or six in number, are extremely

thin, and, springing from the root, creep upon the ground, with small

purple blossoms upon them. This plant is found in localities near the

sea. It is boiled in a pottage made of similago,[1885] to increase the

milk: females, however, after taking it, must immediately use the bath.

CHAP. 59. (10.)—GLAUCION: THREE REMEDIES. DIAGLAUCIA: TWO REMEDIES.

Glaucion[1886] grows in Syria and Parthia; it is a plant of stunted

growth, and thickly covered with leaves, like those of the poppy in

appearance, only smaller and of a more repulsive aspect: it has an

offensive smell, and a bitter, astringent taste. The seed, which is of

a saffron colour, is put into a vessel coated with potter’s clay, and

heated in an oven; when taken out, a juice[1887] is extracted, which

is known by the same name as the plant. This juice and the leaves,

bruised, are used for defluxions of the eyes, which disappear in an

instant, under this treatment: an eye-salve, too, is prepared from

the juice, known as “diaglaucia,” to medical men. The milk, when the

secretion of it is stopped, is restored by the agency of this plant,

for which purpose it is taken in water.

CHAP. 60.—THE GLYCYSIDE, PÆONIA, OR PENTOBOROS: TWENTY REMEDIES.

The glycyside,[1888] by some called “pæonia” or “pentorobos,” has a

stem two cubits in length, accompanied by two or three others, and of

a reddish colour, with a bark like that of the laurel. The leaves are

similar to those of isatis,[1889] but more unctuous, rounder, and more

diminutive; the seed is enclosed in capsules, some being red and some

black, there being two varieties of the plant. The female plant is

generally thought to be the one to the root of which some six or eight

bulbs are attached, of an elongated form; those of the male plant[1890]

being more in number, as it throws out more roots than one, a palm

in length, and of a white colour: it has also an astringent taste.

The leaves of the female plant smell like myrrh,[1891] and lie closer

together than those of the male.

Both plants grow in the woods, and they should always be taken up at

night,[1892] it is said; as it would be dangerous to do so in the

day-time, the woodpecker of Mars being sure to attack the eyes[1893]

of the person so engaged. It is stated also that the person, while

taking up the root, runs great risk of being attacked with procidence

of the anus: all this, however, I take to be so much fiction, most

frivolously invented to puff off their supposed marvellous properties.

Both plants are used[1894] for various purposes: the red seed, taken

in red wine, about fifteen in number, arrest menstruation; while the

black seed, taken in the same proportion, in either raisin or other

wine, are curative of diseases of the uterus. The root, taken in wine,

allays all kinds of pains in the bowels, and acts as a purgative; it

cures opisthotony also, jaundice, nephritic diseases, and affections of

the bladder. Boiled in wine, it is used for diseases of the trachea

and stomach, and acts astringently upon the bowels. It is eaten also by

beasts of burden, but when wanted for remedial purposes, four drachmæ

are sufficient.

The black seed is useful as a preventive of night-mare,[1895] being

taken in wine, in number above stated: it is very good, too, to eat

this seed, and to apply it externally, for gnawing pains of the

stomach. Suppurations are also dispersed, when recent, with the black

seed, and when of long standing, with the red: both kinds are very

useful, too, for wounds inflicted by serpents, and in cases where

children are troubled with calculi, being employed at the crisis when

strangury first makes its appearance.

CHAP. 61.—GNAPHALIUM OR CHAMÆZELON: SIX REMEDIES.

Gnaphalium[1896] is called “chamæzelon” by some: its white, soft,

leaves are used as flock, and, indeed, there is no perceptible

difference. This plant is administered in astringent wine, for

dysentery: it arrests looseness of the bowels and the catamenia, and is

used as an injection for tenesmus. It is employed topically for putrid

sores.

CHAP. 62.—THE GALLIDRAGA: ONE REMEDY.

Xenocrates gives the name of “gallidraga”[1897] to a plant which

resembles the leucacanthus,[1898] and grows in the marshes. It is a

prickly plant, with a tall, ferulaceous stem, surmounted with a head

somewhat similar to an egg in appearance. When this head is growing,

in summer, small worms,[1899] he says, are generated, which are put

away in a box for keeping, and are attached as an amulet, with bread,

to the arm on the side on which tooth-ache is felt; indeed it is quite

wonderful, he says, how soon the pain is removed. These worms, however,

are of no use after the end of a year, or in cases where they have been

allowed to touch the ground.

CHAP. 63.—HOLCUS OR ARISTIS.

Holcus[1900] is a plant that grows in arid, stony, spots: it has an

ear at the end of a fine stem, and looks like barley that has put

forth again when cut. Attached to the head or around the arm, it

extracts[1901] spikes of corn adhering to the flesh; for which reason,

some persons give it the name of “aristis.”

CHAP. 64.—HYOSERIS: ONE REMEDY.

Hyoseris[1902] resembles endive in appearance, but is a smaller plant,

and rougher to the touch: pounded and applied to wounds, it heals them

with remarkable rapidity.

CHAP. 65.—THE HOLOSTEON: THREE REMEDIES.

The holosteon,[1903] so called by the Greeks by way of

antiphrasis,[1904] (in the same way that they give the name of

“sweet”[1905] to the gall,) is a plant destitute of all hardness, of

such extreme fineness as to resemble hairs in appearance, four fingers

in length, and very similar to hay-grass. The leaves of it are narrow,

and it has a rough flavour: it grows upon elevated spots composed of

humus. Taken in wine, it is used for ruptures and convulsions. It has

the property, also, of closing wounds; indeed, if applied to pieces of

meat it will solder them together.

CHAP. 66.—THE HIPPOPHÆSTON: EIGHT REMEDIES.

The hippophæston is one of those prickly plants which fullers[1906] use

in their coppers; it has neither stem nor flower, but only diminutive,

empty heads, numerous small leaves of a grass-green colour, and small,

soft, white roots. From these roots a juice is extracted in summer,

which, taken in doses of three oboli, acts as a purgative; being used

for this purpose in cases of epilepsy, fits of trembling, dropsy,

vertigo, hardness of breathing, and incipient paralysis.

CHAP. 67. (11.)—THE HYPOGLOSSA: ONE REMEDY.

The hypoglossa[1907] is a plant with leaves like those of the wild

myrtle, of a concave form, prickly, and presenting another small leaf

within, resembling a tongue in shape. A wreath made of these leaves,

placed upon the head, alleviates headache.

CHAP. 68.—HYPECOÖN.

Hypecoön[1908] is a plant found growing in corn-fields, with leaves

like those of rue. Its properties are similar to those of juice of

poppies.

CHAP. 69.—THE IDÆA HERBA, OR PLANT OF IDA: FOUR REMEDIES.

The Idæan[1909] plant has leaves like those of the oxymyrsine;[1910]

to which leaves a sort of tendril adheres, that bears a flower. This

plant arrests diarrhœa, the catamenia, when in excess, and all kinds of

hæmorrhage. It is of an astringent and repercussive nature.

CHAP. 70.—THE ISOPYRON OR PHASIOLON: TWO REMEDIES.

The isopyron[1911] is called “phasiolon” by some, from the circumstance

that the leaf of it, which resembles that of anise, assumes a spiral

form like the tendrils of the phasiolus.[1912] At the summit

of the stem, it bears small heads full of a seed like that of

melanthium.[1913] These heads, taken with honey or hydromel, are good

for cough and other affections of the chest; they are extremely useful

also for liver complaints.

CHAP. 71.—THE LATHYRIS: TWO REMEDIES.

The lathyris[1914] has numerous leaves like those of the lettuce,[1915]

with numbers of small buds, in which the seed is contained, enclosed in

envelopes like that of the caper. When these buds are dry, the seeds,

about the size of a peppercorn, are taken out: they are white, sweet,

and easily cleansed from the husk. Twenty of them, taken in pure water

or in hydromel, are curative of dropsy, and carry off bile. Persons who

require a stronger purgative, take them with the husks on. They are

apt, however, to be injurious to the stomach; for which reason a plan

has been adopted of taking them with fish or else chicken broth.

CHAP. 72.—THE LEONTOPETALON OR PARDALION: TWO REMEDIES.

The leontopetalon[1916] is called “pardalion” by some: it has a leaf

like that of the cabbage, and a stem half a foot in height, with

numerous lateral branches, and a seed at the extremities of them,

enclosed in pods like those of the chick-pea. The root resembles that

of rape, and is large and black: it grows in plough lands. The root,

taken in wine, neutralizes the venom of all kinds of serpents; indeed,

there is nothing known that is more speedily efficacious for that

purpose. It is given also for sciatica.

CHAP. 73.—THE LYCAPSOS: TWO REMEDIES.

The lycapsos[1917] has longer and thicker leaves than those of the

lettuce,[1918] and a long, hairy stem, with numerous offshoots a cubit

in length; the flower is diminutive, and of a purple colour; it grows

in champaign localities. In combination with barley-meal, it is used as

an application for erysipelas: the juice of it, mixed with warm water,

is employed as a sudorific, in fevers.

CHAP. 74.—THE LITHOSPERMUM, EXONYCHON, DIOSPYRON, OR HERACLEOS: TWO

REMEDIES.

Among all the plants, however, there is none of a more marvellous

nature than the lithospermum,[1919] sometimes called “exonychon,”

“diospyron,”[1920] or “heracleos.” It is about five inches in height,

with leaves twice the size of those of rue, and small ligneous

branches, about the thickness of a rush. It bears close to the leaves

a sort of fine beard or spike, standing by itself, on the extremity of

which there are small white stones, as round as a pearl, about the size

of a chick-pea, and as hard as a pebble. These stones,[1921] at the

part where they adhere to the stalk, have a small cavity, and contain a

seed within.

This plant is found in Italy, no doubt, but that of Crete is the most

esteemed. Among all the plants, there is none that I ever contemplated

with greater admiration than this; so beauteous is the conformation,

that it might be fancied that the hand of an artist[1922] had arranged

a row of lustrous pearls alternately among the leaves; so exquisite too

the nicety in thus making a stone to grow upon a plant! The authorities

say that this is a creeping plant, and that it lies upon the ground;

but for my own part, I have only seen it when plucked, and not while

growing. It is well known that these small stones, taken in doses of

one drachma, in white wine, break and expel urinary calculi,[1923]

and are curative of strangury. Indeed, there is no plant that so

instantaneously proclaims, at the mere sight of it, the medicinal

purposes for which it was originally intended; the appearance of it,

too, is such, that it can be immediately recognized, without the

necessity of having recourse to any botanical authority.

CHAP. 75.—LAPIDIS MUSCUS, OR STONE MOSS: ONE REMEDY.

There grows near running streams, a dry, white moss,[1924] upon

ordinary stones. One of these stones, with the addition of human

saliva, is rubbed against another; after which the first stone is used

for touching impetigo,[1925] the party so doing uttering these words:—

Φεύγετε κανθαρίδες, λύκος ἄγριος αἷμα διώκει

“Cantharides[1926] begone, a wild wolf seeks your blood.”[1927]

CHAP. 76.—THE LIMEUM: ONE REMEDY.

Limeum[1928] is the name given by the Gauls to a plant, in a

preparation of which, known to them as “deer’s[1929] poison,” they

dip their arrows[1930] when hunting. To three modii of salivating

mixture[1931] they put as much of the plant as is used for poisoning

a single arrow; and a mess of it is passed down the throat, in cases

where oxen are suffering from disease, due care being taken to keep

them fastened to the manger till they have been purged, as they

are generally rendered frantic by the dose. In case perspiration

supervenes, they are drenched all over with cold water.

CHAP. 77.—THE LEUCE, MESOLEUCON, OR LEUCAS: THREE REMEDIES.

Leuce,[1932] a plant resembling mercurialis,[1933] has received its

name[1934] from the circumstance that a white line runs through the

middle of the leaf; for which reason also, some give it the name of

“mesoleucon.”[1935] The juice of this plant is curative of fistula,

and the plant itself, bruised, is good for carcinomata. It is probably

the same plant as that called “leucas,” so remarkably efficacious for

the venom of all kinds of marine animals. Authors have not given a

description of it, beyond telling us that the wild leucas has larger

leaves than the other, and has properties more strongly developed: they

state also that the seed of the cultivated kind is the more acrid of

the two.

CHAP. 78.—THE LEUCOGRAPHIS: FIVE REMEDIES.

I have not found a description given by any writer of the

leucographis;[1936] a thing I am the more surprised at, as they tell

us that it is good for the cure of spitting of blood, taken in doses

of three oboli with saffron; as also that it is useful for cœliac

affections, applied beaten up in water, and in cases of excessive

menstruation. They state also that it enters into the composition of

ophthalmic preparations, and that it fills up ulcers on the more tender

parts of the body with new flesh.

CHAP. 79. (12.)—THE MEDION: THREE REMEDIES.

The medion[1937] has leaves like those of the cultivated seris,[1938]

a stem three feet in length, and a large, round, purple flower, at its

extremity. The seed is diminutive, and the root half a foot in length:

it grows upon umbrageous, sheltered rocks. The root, taken in doses of

two drachmæ with honey, arrests the catamenia, the electuary being used

for some days. The seed, too, is administered in wine for a similar

purpose.

CHAP. 80.—THE MYOSOTA OR MYOSOTIS: THREE REMEDIES.

The myosota[1939] or myosotis is a smooth plant, throwing out from a

single root numerous hollowed stems, of a somewhat reddish colour; and

bearing at the lower extremities swarthy, narrow, oblong leaves, sharp

on the back, arranged in pairs at regular distances, and springing

from delicate branches attached with axils to the main stems. The

flower is blue, and the root, a finger in length, is provided with

numerous filaments like hairs. This plant possesses certain septic and

ulcerating properties, and hence is used for the cure of fistula of the

eye. The Egyptians say that if upon the morning of the twenty-eight

day of their month Thoth, a day which generally falls in our month

of August, a person rubs himself with the juice of this plant before

speaking to any one, he will be sure to have no diseases of the eyes

all that year.

CHAP. 81.—THE MYAGROS: ONE REMEDY.

The myagros[1940] is a ferulaceous plant, with leaves like those of

madder: the seed is of an oily nature—indeed, an oil is extracted from

it. Ulcerations of the mouth are cured by rubbing them with the juice

of this plant.

CHAP. 82.—THE NYMA: ONE REMEDY.

The plant called “nyma”[1941] bears three long leaves, like those of

endive: applied to scars, it restores the skin to its natural colour.

CHAP. 83.—THE NATRIX: ONE REMEDY.

“Natrix”[1942] is the name of a plant, the root of which, when taken

out of the ground, has just the rank smell of the he-goat. It is used

in Picenum for the purpose of keeping away from females what with a

singular credulity they call by the name of “Fatui.”[1943] For my own

part, however, I should think that persons requiring to be treated

with such medicaments as these, must be labouring under a sort of

mental hallucination.

CHAP. 84.—ODONTITIS: ONE REMEDY.

Odontitis[1944] is a sort of hay-grass,[1945] which throws out from

a single root numerous, small, jointed stems, of a triangular form

and of a swarthy hue. At the joints there are small leaves, somewhat

longer than those of the polygonos;[1946] and in the axils formed by

these leaves is the seed, similar to barley in appearance. It has a

purple, diminutive flower, and is found growing in meadows.[1947] A

handful of the stems, boiled in astringent wine, is used for the cure

of tooth-ache,[1948] the decoction being retained for some time in the

mouth.

CHAP. 85.—THE OTHONNA: ONE REMEDY.

The othonna[1949] is a Syrian plant, resembling rocket in appearance;

its leaves are pierced with numerous holes, and its flower resembles

that of saffron, for which reason some persons have given it the

name of “anemone.” The juice of this plant is employed in ophthalmic

preparations; it is slightly pungent, of a warming nature, and

astringent as it dries. It acts as a detergent upon cicatrizations,

films on the eyes, and all impediments of the sight. Some say that the

plant is washed and dried, and then divided into lozenges.

CHAP. 86.—THE ONOSMA: ONE PROPERTY.

The onosma[1950] has leaves some four fingers in length, lying upon

the ground, and indented like those of the anchusa:[1951] it has

neither[1952] stem, blossom, nor seed. A pregnant woman, they say,

if she eats of this plant, or even walks over it, will be sure to

miscarry.

CHAP. 87.—THE ONOPORDON: FIVE REMEDIES.

The onopordon,[1953] it is said, has strongly carminative effects

upon asses, when they eat of it. It acts as a diuretic and as an

emmenagogue, arrests diarrhœa, and disperses abscesses and suppurations.

CHAP. 88.—THE OSYRIS: FOUR REMEDIES.

The osyris[1954] bears small, swarthy, flexible branches, covered

with dark leaves like those of flax. The seed, which grows upon

the branches, is black at first, but afterwards changes its colour

and turns red. Cosmetics[1955] for females are prepared from these

branches. A decoction of the roots, taken in drink, is curative of

jaundice. The roots, cut in pieces before the seed ripens, and dried in

the sun, act astringently upon the bowels: gathered after the seed has

ripened, and boiled in pottage, they are curative of defluxions of the

abdomen: they are taken also by themselves, bruised in rain water.

CHAP. 89.—THE OXYS: TWO REMEDIES.

The oxys[1956] is a plant with three leaves; it is given for

derangement of the stomach, and patients eat it who are suffering from

intestinal hernia.[1957]

CHAP. 90.—THE POLYANTHEMUM OR RATRACHION: THREE REMEDIES.

The polyanthemum,[1958] by some persons called “batrachion,”[1959]

by virtue of its caustic properties has an excoriating effect upon

scars, and restores the skin to its proper colour. It heals white

morphew[1960] also.

CHAP. 91.—THE POLYGONOS, POLYGONATOS, TEUTHALIS, CARCINETHRON, CLEMA,

OR MYRTOPETALOS, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS SANGUINARIA OR ORIOS: FOUR

VARIETIES OF IT: FORTY REMEDIES.

The Greeks give the name of “polygonos”[1961] to the plant known to us

as “sanguinaria.”[1962] It is but little elevated above the ground,

has leaves like those of rue, and resembles grass in appearance. The

juice of it, injected into the nostrils, arrests hæmorrhage: taken

with wine, it has a similar effect upon bleeding at any other part of

the body, as also spitting of blood. Those who distinguish several

kinds of polygonos, make this to be the male[1963] plant, and say

that it is so called from the large number of seeds, or else from its

numerous branches. Some call it “polygonatos,”[1964] from the number

of its joints, others, again, “teuthalis,” and others, “carcinethron,”

“clema,” or “myrtopetalos.”

There are some authorities to be found, however, who say that this is

the female plant, and that the male is more diminutive, less swarthy,

and more jointed, with a seed protruding beneath all the leaves.

However this may be, these plants are of an astringent, cooling nature.

The seed is laxative, and, taken in large doses, acts as a diuretic,

and arrests defluxions; indeed, if there is no defluxion, it is of no

use taking it. For burning heats of the stomach, the leaves are applied

topically; and they are used, in the form of a liniment, for pains in

the bladder, and for erysipelas. The juice is used as an injection

for suppurations of the ears, and by itself, for pains in the eyes.

It is administered, also, in fevers, tertian and quartan fevers more

particularly, in doses of two cyathi, just before the paroxysms come

on; as also in cases of cholera, dysentery, and derangement of the

stomach.

There is a third kind, which grows on the mountains, and is known as

“orios,”[1965] similar to a delicate reed in appearance, and having

but a single stem, with numerous joints running into one another; the

leaves of it are similar to those of the pitch-tree, and the root is

never used. This variety, however, is not so efficacious as those

already mentioned, and, indeed, is used exclusively for sciatica.

A fourth kind is known as the wild[1966] polygonos: it is a shrub,

almost a tree in fact, with a ligneous root, a red trunk like that of

the cedar, and branches resembling those of spartum,[1967] a couple

of palms in length, and with three or four dark-coloured, knotted

joints. This kind, also, is of an astringent nature, and has a flavour

like that of the quince. It is either boiled down in water to one

third, or else dried and powdered for sprinkling upon ulcerations

of the mouth and excoriations: it is chewed, also, for affections

of the gums. It arrests the progress of corrosive ulcers and of all

sores of a serpiginous nature, or which cicatrize with difficulty,

and is particularly useful for ulcerations caused by snow. Herbalists

employ it also for quinzy, and use it as a chaplet for head-ache; for

defluxions of the eyes, they put it round the neck.

In cases of tertian fever, some persons pull it up with the left hand,

and attach it as an amulet to the body; the same, too, in cases of

hæmorrhage. There is no plant that is more generally kept by them in a

dry state than the polygonos.

CHAP. 92.—THE PANCRATIUM: TWELVE REMEDIES.

The pancratium is called by some the “little squill,”[1968] in

preference: it has leaves like those of the white lily, but longer and

thicker, and a root composed of a large, red, bulb. The juice of it,

taken with meal of fitches, relaxes the bowels, and acts as a detergent

upon ulcers: for dropsy, and diseases of the spleen, it is administered

with honey. Some persons boil it till the water becomes sweet; the

water is then poured off, and the root is pounded and divided into

tablets, which are dried in the sun and used for ulcerations of the

head, and other affections which require detergents. It is sometimes

given for cough, a pinch in three fingers in wine, and, in the form of

an electuary, for pains in the side or peripneumony.

It is administered, also, in wine, for sciatica, griping pains in the

bowels, and retardations of the catamenia.

CHAP. 93.—THE PEPLIS, SYCE, MECONION, OR MECON APHRODES: THREE REMEDIES.

The peplis,[1969] known by the various names of “syce,”[1970]

“meconion,” and “mecon aphrodes,” is a shrub-like plant, springing

from a single, diminutive, root. The leaves of it resemble those of

rue, but are a little larger; the seed, which lies beneath the leaves,

is round, and smaller than that of the white poppy. It is ordinarily

gathered in vineyards, at harvest-time, and is dried with the seed on,

receivers being placed beneath to catch it as it falls. This seed,

taken in drink, purges the bowels, and carries off bile and pituitous

secretions: one acetabulum, taken in three heminæ of hydromel, is a

middling dose. It is sprinkled also upon meat and other articles of

food, as a laxative medicine.

CHAP. 94.—THE PERICLYMENOS: FIVE REMEDIES.

The periclymenos[1971] is also a shrub-like plant, with two whitish,

soft, leaves, arranged at intervals. At the extremity, among the

leaves, is the seed, hard, and very difficult to pluck. It grows in

ploughed fields and hedges, entwining around every object from which it

can gain support. The seed is dried in the shade, pounded, and divided

into lozenges. These lozenges are left to dissolve, in three cyathi of

white wine, for a period of thirty days, and are given for diseases

of the spleen; the volume of which is gradually diminished either by

discharges of bloody urine, or else by alvine evacuation, the effects

of the medicament being perceptible at the end of ten days. The leaves,

boiled, act as a diuretic, and are useful for hardness of breathing.

Taken in drink, in manner above-mentioned, they facilitate delivery,

and bring away the afterbirth.

CHAP. 95.—PELECINON: ONE REMEDY.

We have already[1972] spoken of pelecinon as growing in corn-fields,

a plant which throws out a number of shoots from thin stems, and has

leaves like those of the chick-pea. The seed, which is contained

in pods of a curved shape, like diminutive horns and three or four

in number, is similar to gith[1973] in appearance, bitter, and an

excellent stomachic. It is used as an ingredient in antidotes.[1974]

CHAP. 96.—POLYGALA: ONE REMEDY.

Polygala[1975] is a palm in height, with leaves like those of the

lentil at the extremity of the stem. It has an astringent taste; taken

in drink, it increases the milk in nursing women.

CHAP. 97.—POTERION, PHRYNION, OR NEURAS: FOUR REMEDIES.

Poterion,[1976] or, as some call it, “phrynion” or “neuras,”[1977]

throws out numerous branches, is shrivelled and prickly, and covered

with a thick down. The leaves of it are small and round; the branches

long, soft, thin, and flexible; and the blossom elongated, and of

a grass-green colour. The seed is never used, but it has a pungent

flavour and a powerful smell: the plant is found growing upon moist,

watery, elevations. The roots are two or three in number, some two

cubits in length, sinewy, white, and firm. It is dug up in autumn, and

the stem yields a juice like gum, when cut. The root is said to be

of wonderful efficacy as an application for the cure of wounds, more

particularly of the sinews, even when severed. A decoction of it is

also taken, with honey, for relaxations of the sinews, and for weakness

or wounds of those parts.

CHAP. 98.—THE PHALANGITIS, PHALANGION, OR LEUCACANTHA: FOUR REMEDIES.

The phalangitis[1978] is by some called “phalangion,” and by others

“leucanthemum,”[1979] or, as I find it written in some copies,

“leucacantha.”[1980] Its branches are diminutive, never less than two

in number, and running in contrary directions: the blossom is white,

and similar to the flower of the red lily; the seed dark and broad,

resembling the half of a lentil, but much thinner; and the root slender

and of a grass-green colour. The leaves, blossoms, or seed of this

plant are employed for the cure of wounds inflicted by scorpions,

serpents, and the phalangium,[1981] and for the removal of griping

pains in the bowels.

CHAP. 99.—THE PHYTEUMA: ONE PROPERTY.

As for the phyteuma,[1982] I think it a mere loss of time to describe

it, it being only used as an ingredient in philtres.

CHAP. 100.—THE PHYLLON: ONE PROPERTY.

The Greeks give the name of “phyllon”[1983] to a plant which grows

among the rocks, in mountainous spots. The female plant is of a more

grass-green colour than the other, with a thin stem, a diminutive root,

and a round seed, like that of the poppy. This last kind ensures the

conception of issue of the same sex; while the male plant, differing

only in the seed, which resembles the olive at its first appearance,

ensures the conception of male issue. They are both taken in wine.

CHAP. 101.—THE PHELLANDRION: TWO REMEDIES.

The phellandrion[1984] grows in marshy spots, and has a leaf like that

of parsley: the seed of it is taken in drink for calculi and affections

of the bladder.

CHAP. 102. THE PHALARIS: TWO REMEDIES.

The phalaris[1985] has a long thin stem, like a reed, with a drooping

flower at the extremity; the seed is like that of sesame.[1986] This

plant, too, taken with milk and honey, in wine or vinegar, breaks

urinary calculi, and is curative of diseases of the bladder.

CHAP. 103.—THE POLYRRHIZON: FIVE REMEDIES.

The polyrrhizon[1987] has leaves like those of myrtle, and numerous

roots. These roots are pounded and administered in wine, for injuries

inflicted by serpents: they are useful, also, for cattle.

CHAP. 104.—THE PROSERPINACA: FIVE REMEDIES.

The proserpinaca,[1988] a common plant enough, is an excellent remedy

for the sting of the scorpion. Powdered and mixed with brine and oil,

in which the mæna[1989] has been preserved, it is an excellent cure,

they say, for quinzy.[1990] It is also stated that, however fatigued a

person may be, to the extent even of losing his voice, he will be sure

to be refreshed, by putting this plant beneath his tongue; and that if

it is eaten, a vomit will be the result, productive of good effects.

CHAP. 105.—RHACOMA: THIRTY-SIX REMEDIES.

Rhacoma[1991] is imported from the regions situate beyond Pontus.[1992]

The root of it is similar to black costus,[1993] but smaller and

somewhat redder, inodorous, and of a hot, astringent flavour; when

pounded, it yields a colour like that of wine,[1994] but inclining to

saffron. Applied topically, it reduces abscesses and inflammations,

and heals wounds: used with raisin wine, it allays defluxions of the

eyes; with honey, ecchymosis; and with vinegar, livid marks upon the

skin. Reduced to powder, it is sprinkled upon malignant ulcers, and is

given internally for spitting of blood, in doses of one drachma, in

water. For dysentery and cœliac affections, if unattended with fever,

it is administered in wine; but if there is fever, in water. It is

pounded more easily when it has been steeped in water the night before.

A decoction of it is given, in doses of two drachmæ, for ruptures,

convulsions, contusions, and falls with violence.

In cases of pains in the chest, a little pepper and myrrh is added.

When the stomach is deranged, it is taken in cold water; and the same

in cases of chronic cough, purulent expectorations, liver complaint,

affections of the spleen, sciatica, diseases of the kidneys, asthma,

and hardness of breathing. Pounded and taken in doses of three

oboli, in raisin wine, or used in the form of a decoction, it cures

irritations of the trachea: applied with vinegar, it acts as a

detergent upon lichens. It is taken in drink, also, for flatulency,

cold shiverings, chilly fevers, hiccup, gripings of the bowels,

herpetic ulcerations, oppressions of the head, vertigo attended with

melancholy, lassitude accompanied with pain, and convulsions.

CHAP. 106.—THE RESEDA: TWO REMEDIES.

In the vicinity of Ariminum, there is a well-known plant called

“reseda:”[1995] it disperses abscesses and all kinds of inflammations.

Those who employ it for these purposes, add the following words:

“Reseda,[1996] allay this disease! knowest thou not, knowest thou not,

what chick it is that has torn up these roots? Let it have nor head nor

feet!”[1997] This formula is repeated thrice, the party spitting on the

ground each time.

CHAP. 107.—THE STŒCHAS: THREE REMEDIES.

The stœchas[1998] grows only in the islands of that name.[1999] It is

an odoriferous plant, with leaves like those of hyssop, and of a bitter

taste. Taken in drink, it promotes menstruation, and allays pains in

the chest. It forms an ingredient, also, in antidotes.

CHAP. 108.—THE SOLANUM, BY THE GREEKS CALLED STRYCHNON: TWO REMEDIAL

PROPERTIES.

The solanum,[2000] according to Cornelius Celsus,[2001] is called

“strychnon” by the Greeks; it is possessed of repercussive and

refrigerative properties.

CHAP. 109.—SMYRNION: THIRTY-TWO REMEDIES. SINON: TWO REMEDIES.

Smyrnion[2002] has a stem like that of parsley, but larger leaves,

and growing principally about the young shoots, which are numerous.

From the midst of these shoots the leaves make their appearance,

unctuous, and bending towards the ground. This plant has a medicinal

smell, penetrating to a certain degree, and agreeable: the colour of

it is a pale yellow, and the stems bear rounded umbels like those of

dill,[2003] with a round, black seed, which dries at the beginning of

summer. The root, also, is odoriferous, of an acrid, pungent flavour,

soft and juicy, black on the outer coat and pale within. The smell of

it partakes very much of the nature of that of myrrh, to which, in

fact, it owes its name: it grows in localities of a stony nature, or

covered with humus. Its medicinal properties are warming and resolvent.

The leaves and root are used as a diuretic and as an emmenagogue; the

seed arrests diarrhœa; and the root, applied topically, disperses

abscesses and suppurations, provided they are not inveterate, and

reduces indurated tumours. It is useful, also, for injuries inflicted

by the phalangium and by serpents, taken in wine, with the addition

of cachrys,[2004] polium,[2005] or melissophyllum;[2006] the dose,

however, must be taken a little at a time only, for otherwise it acts

as an emetic, a reason for which it is sometimes administered with

rue. The seed or root is curative of cough, hardness of breathing,

and diseases of the thoracic organs, spleen, kidneys, and bladder;

the root, too, is used for ruptures and convulsions. This plant

facilitates delivery, and brings away the afterbirth; it is also given,

in combination with crethmos,[2007] in wine, for sciatica. It acts as

a sudorific and carminative, for which reason it is used to disperse

flatulency of the stomach; it promotes, also, the cicatrization of

wounds.

A juice is extracted from the root, which is very useful for female

complaints, and for affections of the thoracic organs and viscera,

possessing, as it does, certain calorific, digestive, and detergent

properties. The seed, in particular, is given in drink for dropsy,

external applications being made of the juice, and emollient poultices

applied of the dried rind of the root. It is used, also, as a seasoning

for food, boiled meat in particular, with the addition of honied wine,

oil, and garum.[2008]

Sinon,[2009] a plant with a flavour very like that of pepper, promotes

the digestion, and is highly efficacious for pains in the stomach.

CHAP. 110.—TELEPHION: FOUR REMEDIES.

Telephion[2010] resembles purslain in the stem and leaves. From the

root of it there spring seven or eight small branches, covered with

thick, fleshy leaves; it grows in cultivated spots, and among vines in

particular. It is used as an application for freckles, being removed

as soon as dry; it is employed, also, for white morphew,[2011] being

applied some six hours each night or day, and the treatment continued

for about three months: after removing it, barley-meal should be

applied. Telephion is healing, also, for wounds and fistulas.

CHAP. 111.—THE TRICHOMANES. FIVE REMEDIES.

The trichomanes[2012] is a plant that resembles the adiantum,[2013]

except that it is more slender and of a darker colour; the leaves of

it, which are similar to those of the lentil, lie close together, on

opposite sides, and have a bitter taste. A decoction of this plant,

taken in white wine, with the addition of wild cummin, is curative

of strangury. Bruised and applied to the head, it prevents the hair

from falling off, and, where it has come off, restores it: pounded and

applied with oil, it effects the cure of alopecy. The mere taste of it

is provocative of sneezing.

CHAP. 112.—THE THALICTRUM: ONE REMEDY.

The thalictrum[2014] has leaves like those of coriander, only somewhat

more unctuous, and a stem resembling that of the poppy.[2015] It is

found growing everywhere, in champaign localities more particularly.

The leaves, applied with honey, heal ulcers.

CHAP. 113.—THLASPI AND PERSICON NAPY: FOUR REMEDIES.

Of thlaspi there are two kinds; the first[2016] of which has narrow

leaves, about a finger in length and breadth, turned towards the

ground, and divided at the point. It has a slender stem, half a foot

in length, and not wholly destitute of branches; the seed, enclosed

in a crescent-shaped capsule,[2017] is similar to a lentil in shape,

except that it has a jagged appearance, to which, in fact, it owes its

name;[2018] the flower is white, and the plant is found near footpaths

and in hedges. The seed, which has an acrid flavour, carries off bile

and pituitous secretions, by vomit and by alvine evacuation, the proper

dose being one acetabulum. It is used, also, for sciatica, in the form

of an injection, this treatment being persevered in until it has

induced a discharge of blood: it acts also as an emmenagogue, but is

fatal to the fœtus.

The other thlaspi, known by some as “Persicon napy,”[2019] has broad

leaves and large roots, and is also very useful as an injection for

sciatica. Both plants are very serviceable for inguinal complaints;

it being recommended that the person who gathers them should mention

that he is taking them for diseases of the groin, for abscesses of all

kinds, and for wounds, and that he should pluck them with one hand only.

CHAP. 114.—THE TRACHINIA: ONE PROPERTY.

What sort of plant the trachinia[2020] is, the authorities do not

state. I think that the assurance given by Democritus must be false:

for it would be nothing less than a prodigy, for a plant, attached as

an amulet, to consume the spleen in so short a time as three days.

CHAP. 115.—THE TRAGONIS OR TRAGION: FOUR REMEDIES.

The tragonis,[2021] or tragion, grows nowhere but in the maritime

districts of the Isle of Crete; it resembles the juniper in the seed,

leaf, and branches. Its milky juice, which thickens in the form of

a gum, or its seed, taken in drink, expels pointed weapons from the

flesh. The plant, too, is pounded fresh and applied as a liniment with

wine, or, dried and powdered, with honey. It increases the milk in

nursing women, and is a sovereign remedy for diseases of the mamillæ.

CHAP. 116.—THE TRAGOS OR SCORPION: FOUR REMEDIES.

There is another plant also, called “tragos,”[2022] or “scorpion” by

some, half a foot in height, branchy, destitute of leaves, and bearing

diminutive red clusters, with a seed like that of wheat, but pointed

at the extremity: this too grows in maritime localities. Ten or twelve

tops of the branches, bruised and taken in wine, are remedial in cases

of cœliac affections, dysentery, spitting of blood, and excessive

menstruation.

CHAP. 117.—THE TRAGOPOGON OR COME.

There is the tragopogon,[2023] also, by some called “come;” a plant

with a small stem, leaves like those of saffron, an elongated, sweet,

root, and a large, swarthy calyx at the extremity of the stem. It grows

in rugged soils, and is never used.

CHAP. 118.—THE AGES OF PLANTS.

Such, then, is all that I have hitherto been enabled to learn or

discover, worthy of mention, relative to plants. At the close, of this

subject, it seems to me that it will not be out of place to remind

the reader, that the properties of plants vary according to their

age. It is elaterium, as already stated,[2024] that preserves its

properties the longest of all. The black chamæleon[2025] retains its

virtues forty years, centaury not more than twelve, peucedanum[2026]

and aristolochia[2027] six, and the wild vine one year—that is to

say, if they are kept in the shade. I would remark, also, that beyond

those animals which breed within the plants, there are none that

attack the roots of any of those which have been mentioned by me;

with the exception, indeed, of the sphondyle,[2028] a kind of creeping

insect,[2029] which infests them all.

CHAP. 119.—HOW THE GREATEST EFFICACY IN PLANTS MAY BE ENSURED.

It is also an undoubted truth, that the virtues and properties of

all roots are more feebly developed, when the fruit has been allowed

to ripen; and that it is the same with the seed, when incisions have

been previously made in the root, for the extraction of the juice. The

efficacy, too, of all plants is impaired by making habitual use of

them; and these substances, if employed daily, lose equally their good

or bad properties, when required to be effectual. All plants, too, have

more powerful properties, when grown in soils that are cold and exposed

to the north-eastern blasts, or in dry localities.

CHAP. 120.—MALADIES PECULIAR TO VARIOUS NATIONS.

There are certain differences, also, by no means inconsiderable, in

the predispositions of the various nations of the earth. I have been

informed, for instance, that the people of Egypt, Arabia, Syria, and

Cilicia, are subject to tapeworm and maw-worm, while those of Thracia

and Phrygia, on the other hand, are totally exempt from them. This,

however, is less surprising than the fact that, although Attica and

Bœotia are adjoining territories, the Thebans are troubled with these

inflictions, while among the people of Athens they are unknown.

Considerations of this description lead me now to turn my attention

to the nature of the animated beings themselves, and the medicinal

properties which are inborn in them, the most assured remedies,

perhaps, for all diseases.

For Nature, in fact, that parent of all things, has produced no

animated being for the purpose solely of eating; she has willed that it

should be born to satisfy the wants of others, and in its very vitals

has implanted medicaments conducive to health. While she has implanted

them in mute[2030] and inanimate objects even, she has equally willed

that these, the most invaluable aids of life, should be also derived

from the life of another—a subject for contemplation, marvellous in the

highest degree![2031]

SUMMARY.—Remedies, narratives, and observations, six hundred and two.

ROMAN AUTHORS QUOTED.—Caius Valgius,[2032] Pompeius Lenæus,[2033]

Sextius Niger[2034] who wrote in Greek, Julius Bassus[2035] who wrote

in Greek, Antonius Castor,[2036] Cornelius Celsus.[2037]

FOREIGN AUTHORS QUOTED.—Theophrastus,[2038] Apollodorus,[2039]

Democritus,[2040] Aristogiton,[2041] Orpheus,[2042] Pythagoras,[2043]

Mago,[2044] Menander[2045] who wrote the “Biochresta,” Nicander.[2046]

MEDICAL AUTHORS QUOTED.—Mnesitheus,[2047] Timaristus,[2048]

Simus,[2049] Hippocrates,[2050] Chrysippus,[2051] Diocles,[2052]

Ophelion,[2053] Heraclides,[2054] Hicesius,[2055] Dionysius,[2056]

Apollodorus[2057] of Citium, Apollodorus[2058] of Tarentum,

Praxagoras,[2059] Plistonicus,[2060] Medius,[2061] Dieuches,[2062]

Cleophantus,[2063] Philistion,[2064] Asclepiades,[2065] Crateuas,[2066]

Petronius Diodotus,[2067] Iollas,[2068] Erasistratus,[2069]

Diagoras,[2070] Andreas,[2071] Mnesides,[2072] Epicharmus,[2073]

Damion,[2074] Tlepolemus,[2075] Metrodorus,[2076] Solo,[2077]

Lycus,[2078] Olympias[2079] of Thebes, Philinus,[2080] Petrichus,[2081]

Micton,[2082] Glaucias,[2083] Xenocrates.[2084]

⁂ Before quitting the Botanical Books of Pliny, it is a duty both to

our author and to the reader, to call attention to the illustrations

of a few passages in this work, which will be found in the _Textrinum

Antiquorum_, by Dr. James Yates, F.R.S., a book characterized by

learning, equally profound and extensive, and the most indefatigable

research: it being but recently, we are sorry to say, that we have been

made acquainted with its valuable contents.

The following are selected as among the most useful and interesting

results of his enquiries.

B. vi. c. 20 [V. ii. p. 36]. Dr. Yates is of opinion that Pliny has

here mistranslated a passage of Aristotle, Hist. Anim. v. 19 and that

he has mistaken the word βομβύκια, “cocoons,” for webs, similar to

those of the spider, attached to the leaves of trees. Not understanding

the original, he would seem to have given a distorted account of the

simple operation of winding the threads from off the cocoons of the

silkworm upon bobbins, by the hands of females; the threads upon which

bobbins would be afterwards unwound for the manufacture of silken

fabrics. See Notes 303 and 304 on the passage in question; also B. xi.

c. 26.

B. viii. c. 74 [V. ii. p. 336]. For the word “Sororiculata,” Dr. Yates

proposes to read “Soriculata,” and he suggests that the cloth thus

called may have been a velvet or plush, which received its name from

its resemblance to the coat of the field-mouse, “sorex,” the diminutive

of which would be “soricula.”

B. xix. c. 2 [V. iv. p. 133] and c. 6 [p. 138], Dr. Yates expresses

it as his opinion that the words “Carbasus” and “Carbasa” are derived

from the oriental word _Carpos_, signifying “cotton,” and thinks that

Pliny, in B. xix. c. 2, may have used the word by Catachresis, as

meaning linen, in the same manner as the Latin poets repeatedly use the

word “carbasa,” as signifying various kinds of woven textures. If this

view be correct, the word “Carbasina” in B. xix. c. 6, will probably

mean “awnings of woven material” generally, and not of fine linen, or

cambric, as suggested in Note 856.

B. xix. c. 2 [V. iv. p. 134]. The genuineness of the passage which

makes mention of the “Gossypium,” is questioned by Dr. Yates, who

thinks it possible that it is an interpolation: such, however, if we

may judge from the result of Sillig’s researches, does not appear to

have been the case. If, on the other hand, the passage is genuine, Dr.

Yates is of opinion that the statement is incorrect, and that cotton

was _not_ grown in Egypt. It seems just possible, however, that Pliny

may have had in view the trees mentioned by him in B. xiv. c. 28.

B. xix. c. 4 [V. iv. p. 137, also p. 134, Note 837]. Dr. Yates has

adduced a number of convincing arguments to prove that the “Byssus” of

the ancients cannot have been cotton, but that in all probability it

was a texture of fine flax. The passages of Pausanias, (B. v. c. 25,

and B. vi. c. 26) in which “Byssus” is mentioned, would certainly seem

to apply to flax, a product which is still cultivated near the mouth

of the river Peneus, in ancient Elis. There is no doubt, however, that

Philostratus, though perhaps erroneously, has used the word “Byssus” as

meaning cotton.