Praxis medicinæ reformata: = or, The practice of physick reformed Being an epitome of the whole art: wherein is briefly shewed, the true causes, signs, prognosticks, and cure, of most diseases. Published for the benefit of all persons. By Robert Johnson, Med. Professor.

BOOK II.

CHAP. I. Of Shortness of Breathing.

SHortness or Difficulty of Breathing, is cal∣led in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 spiro, vel 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. e. afflo calidum ori.

It is a disease in which the Bronchia of the Lungs are so stuffed with viscous Phlegm, that the sick can hardly breathe, but with wheasing, blowing or puffing, and do make a great noise with snorting; in which the Diaphragma, and intercostal Muscles are violently moved.

If the Lungs onely are stuffed, it is with∣out snorting, and is then called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 aegre, & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 spiro.

In this the conduits of the Lights are much stopped, causing hardness, or straitness of breath, and pursiness.

But if the Patient fetcheth breath with much difficulty, with the Neck stretched up∣right; it may then be called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ab 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, rectus, & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, spiro, i. e. erecta cervice spirare.

The cause of this disease, is the Juice of the Pancreas growing more sour by its ob∣struction, joined to viscous Phlegm in the small gut, by which it becomes more flatu∣lent; and being stir'd up in its effervescency

with Choler, it riseth to the Thoracick pas∣sage, by the Lacteal Veins, and so to the Heart and Lungs, and filling the airy conduits thereof, and sticking there, it causeth a brea∣thing with snorting.

The same humour is also carried to the Stomach, which causeth many sour Belchings in this distemper; and if these flatuous hu∣mours become more sharp than viscous; so often as they come to the Lungs, they pierce into the sharp Artery, and do so provoke and molest it, that thereby the Lungs are compelled to cough, by which the Expira∣tion of Air is deprav'd.

If there be much moisture contain'd in the sharp Artery, it will be the easier ex∣pelled by the help of coughing, but if the Tra∣chea Arteria be affected with driness, then no∣thing is spit out, though with great and much labour, but the universal Body is wearied in vain with indeavouring to cough; whence there is sometimes raised a vehement Pain both of the Head and Hypochondries, and other parts; yea sometimes a Rupture is bred by it, and the Urine and Excrements are thereby often involuntarily extruded.

2. If this disease be not speedily removed, it will prove chronical and hard to be cur'd, unless the Patient be young and of a strong constitution, for otherwise it will end in a Cachexie or Dropsie.

An Asthma, or wheasing Anxiety may happily be cured (in the beginning) by an Antimonial vomit, especially in those who do vomit easily, because the Phlegmatick humours (which are contained in the sharp Artery, &c.) are thereby immediately brought up; but if vomiting hurts the sick, the humours may be evacuated downwards by gentle purgation, with powerfull and ef∣fectual Phlegmagogues, and Hydragogues, such as is prescrib'd in the Chapter of Ca∣tarrhs. page 56. 57.

If the Patient hath a costive Body, let carminative Clysters be often administred; and if the Body be plethorick, let a vein be opened, either in the Foot, or apply Leeches to the Haemorrhoid veins, which will much conduce to free the respiration.

Such medicines as have an expectorating quality, and have power to temper and dis∣cuss the over sharp vapours, may be often us'd in a little quantity.

The following Julep may be commended in this case.

Take of the pectoral Decoction half a pint, Cinamon-water, Syrups of Hore-hound, Fennel, of each one ounce and half; Spirits of Salt Armoniack, Niter, of each twenty drops; Laudanum opiatum ten grains; Oil of Sulphur per Campanam ten drops, mix it.

Quercetanus his Syrup of Tobacco, is com∣mended in this distemper.

Also Tobacco taken in a Pipe, or chew∣ed in the mouth, draweth abundance of viscous Phlegm out of the Stomach and Lungs.

Many more medicines might be inserted, but I refer you to the Chapter of Catarrhs, where you may be throughly furnished.

CHAP. II. Of the Pleurisie, and other Inflammations.

THE Pleurisie is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 latus, quod tunicoe costos suc∣cingentis lateris dolor.

It is also called in Latin Pleuritis, & In∣flammatio; it being an Inflammation of the Pleura, and also of the intercostal Muscles, and other adjacent parts, as the mediasti∣num, pericardium, diaphragma, &c.

It is attended with many Symptomes, as difficulty of breathing, shooting and prick∣ing pain of the sides, which is the more exasperated by coughing, and is common in this distemper; the Patient hath also a con∣tinual acute Fever, which is most common∣ly symptomatical.

The Inflammation of the Lungs is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 circum & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 pulmo, quod a 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 spiro.

It is also called in Latin Peripneumonia, & Peripneumonicus morbus.

It is not different in the causes or signs from a Pleurisie.

The cause of the Pleurisie, and Peripneu∣mony, and all other inflammations, is an obstruction of the Capillary vessels, (in the inflamed part) by glutenous Phlegm, car∣ried together with the bloud through them, and if a Plethora concur, the bloud and hu∣mours will soon be stagnated, and become acrid and fervid, which preternaturally dis∣tends the vessels, by which circulation of the Bloud is hindred, so that at length the vessels break, and the Bloud is poured into the part affected; which there corrupts and increaseth the pain and inflammation, and consequently produceth a tumour, whee the putrid bloud and humours, (being ••y degrees corrupted,) are converted into ••u∣rulent matter; for the bloud being stagna∣ted, or standing still in any part, the s••iri∣tuous, and more volatile and s••btle parts, that are wont to temper both the acid and salt parts, do afterward begin to vanish, whence both being made sharper, do more fiercely rise up one against ano∣ther, and stir up an hot Effervescency, be∣cause

of the Oily parts of the bloud present; yea by degrees do so corrupt the bloud, as it turns it into matter, which is different according to the variousness of the bloud corrupted.

1. The sooner the inflammation and Tu∣mour comes to suppuration, the more easie will be the Cure.

2. If a Pleurisie follow an Inflammation of the Lungs, there may be hopes of recove∣ry; but if a Peripneumony follow a Pleuri∣sie, or Quinzy, 'tis dangerous, and (for the most part) mortal.

3. If much matter be expectorated by coughing, and there still remain difficulty of breathing, 'tis an ill sign; so likewise is it, if in coughing nothing be spit up.

4. If the Pleurisie, or Peripneumony re∣main above twelve days, an Empiema will inevitably ensue; for the bloud standing still, is by little and little collected in its vessels, and be••ng peccant in a great excess, it distends them more and more, till at length they burst; whence there happens an effusion of blo••d into the Cavity of the Breast, and be∣ing there collected, and corrupted into matter, it constitutes a suppuration called Empien••a.

To ••ure a Pleurisie, and any Inflammation, and Aposteme following, it is required, that

1. The obstruction of the vessels be opened,

that the Circulation of the Bloud stopt, and standing still may be restor'd.

2. That the Bloud effus'd out of its ves∣sels (if possible) may be discuss'd, before it turns to matter.

3. That if the Suppuration cannot be hin∣dred, it must be promoted with all expediti∣on, that the purulent matter collected, might be evacuated.

4. That the cleansing and consolidation of the Ulcer be speedily performed.

An obstruction of the vessels by viscous Phlegm, or bloud coagulated in them, may be cur'd by volatile Salts, prepar'd not one∣ly of several parts of Animals, but also of Scor∣butick plants, viz. Dandelion, Hedge-mustard, Scurvigrass, Garden and Water-cresses, &c.

To these may be referred Crabs-eyes, the Jaws of a Pike, the Bone of a Harts-heart, Mummy, Sperma coeti, Antimony Diapho∣retick, Opium prepar'd, &c. as also all fixt metallick and mineral Sulphurs.

These volatile medicines have an egregi∣ous Power of dissolving all things coagula∣ted, and conglutinated in Man's body, and of reducing the same to their wonted flui∣dity, and do mildly promote sweat; hence it is that often by one such Diaphoretick given in season, both a Pleurisie, and Pirip∣neumony, and also Inflammations of other

parts have been most happily and safely cu∣red without Phlebotomy.

But where a Plethora concurs; after a stool hath been procur'd by a carminative Clyster, let a vein be opened, for thereby the bloud standing still will be restor'd to its wonted Circulation; for some of the bloud being let out, there will be a larger space made in the veins, for a more brisk and swift motion of the universal Mass of it.

After a sufficient quantity of bloud is ta∣ken away, it will be profitable to give a Sudorifick.

This may serve for example.

Take the pectoral Decoction four ounces; the Waters of Hyssop, Fennel, Parsley, Juice of Horse-dung clarified, distilled Vineger, of each three ounces; Treacle-water, Cinamon∣water, Syrups of the five opening Roots, and of red and white Poppies, of each one ounce; Powder of Crabs-eyes, two drachms; Mum∣my, Sperma coeti, of each half a drachm; Laudanum opiatum ten grains; volatile Salt of Harts-horn half a drachm; Spirit of Salt Armoniack twenty drops; mix it.

Let the sick take often a spoonfull of this Julep, which is rich in volatile Salt, and powerfully corrects the acidity of the bloud; by the help whereof the clottering of it will not onely be hindred, but its over thick parts incided, and by degrees attenuated;

and its over thin parts will be discust, and evacuated together with Sweat or insensible Transpiration: Its over sharp parts will be also temper'd, and the Pain asswaged, and at length wholly taken away; as also the obstruction it self will be loosened and dissolved; for when the volatile Salt of the Sudorifick comes to the place of obstructi∣on, it attempts the matter obstructing be it what it will, and cuts, attenuates, loosens, and makes it fluid; whence it is farther dri∣ven forward together with it more easily.

The bloud is also thereby more and more rarified, and becomes more fluid, and mo∣veable; wherefore there needs no farther care for elaborated medicaments, and Me∣thods.

Frustra fit per plura, quod fieri potest per pauciora.

As for Topical medicaments, or external applications, the following are excellent.

Take the roots of Briony, Smallage, Fen∣nel, of each four ounces; the tops of Elder, Dwarf-elder, Hedge-mustard, Agrimony, Wormwood, Mint, Vervain, Flowers of Me∣lilot, Chamomel, of each two handfuls; Cum∣min-seed, the Berries of Bays and Juniper, of each two ounces. Let them be all clean∣sed, bruised and boiled in two gallons of Rain∣water till half of it be boiled away, then strain it for a Fomentation.

Let the Inflammation or Tumor be well bathed with it, as hot as may be suffered, either with woollen cloaths, or soft spunges, fit to co∣ver the part affected; after which let it be a∣nointed with the following ointment.

Take Ointments of Marsh-mallows, Mar∣tiatum, of each one ounce; Oils of Dill, Bays, Lillies, Poppies, Henbane, of each half an ounce; Oils of Amber, Turpentine, Bricks, of each one drachm; Camphire two drachms; mix it. Then let this plaister be spread on lea∣ther, or linen cloath, and applied.

Take Yellow Wax four ounces, Sper∣ma caeti, two ounces; Galbanum prepar'd with Vinegar, one ounce. Make it into a plaster according to art.

This egregious Plaster doth not onely pre∣serve the bloud from coagulation in any part where it is applied; but Milk also from curd∣ling in the Paps. But if it be not to be had, the following dissolving, and mollifying Ca∣taplasm may be substituted.

Take of Onions rosted under the ashes two ounces; Dwarf-elder, Hedge-mustard, Ver∣vain, Elder, Chervil, Water-cresses, of each one handfull; Powders of Album Graecum, Lu∣pines, a Swallows nest, Barley-meal, of each one ounce; Butter-milk as much as will make it into a Pultis.

Apply it meanly warm to the inflam'd part, for thereby the internal obstruction will be

the better opened; but it must be renewed as often as it begins to dry.

When the bloud is effus'd into such places, out of which it cannot be well remov'd, or discust; suppuration or the generation of matter, must be promoted, and hastned; which may be done by emollient and ripen∣ing Medicines, as the roots and leaves of Mallows, Marsh-mallows, white Lillies, O∣nions, Squills, the powder of Fenugreek, and Flax-seed, the meal of Barley and Beans, the Marrow of all bones, and all kind of fats, and almost any Oil that is exprest of seeds, or kernels; as also divers sorts of Gums, as Galbanum, Liquid Styrax, Bdellium, Amonia∣cum, and also Wax and Turpentine, &c.

Of these you may prepare Cataplasms, Oils, Unguents, Emplasters, &c. Which Judicious Physicians and Chyrurgions may doe as they see occasion.

But when there is much heat in the part inflam'd, beware of all unctuous things, and let your Fomentations and Cataplasms be made with Butter-milk, which doth egregi∣ously temper heat, and hinder St. Anthonie's fire from being easily join'd with the In∣flammation.

The generation of matter being promoted, and the Tumor come to suppuration, let it be opened either with an Instrument or po∣tential Cauterie, in the softest and lowest

part of it; and let the matter be evacuated by little and little, because otherwise the strength of the sick will not be a little pro∣strated, especially when there is much mat∣ter contained in the Aposteme; wherefore let not the Tumor be pressed hard, which is familiar with many Chyrurgions, but of∣ten proves prejudicial to the Patient.

If the Orifice be too small, you may di∣late it with a tent made of spunge dipt in Melilot plaster, and afterward pressed; but it is better to lay it open by incision, if it may conveniently be done; after which you must forth-with proceed to cleanse and consolidate the Ulcer; to which end several Medicines are wont to be applied, all which I neither blame nor carp at.

I have often considered (with admiration) the laudable effect of Balsam of Sulphur with Oil of Turpentine, &c. In this case incre∣dible to many, if a little of it be mixt with a milder Balsam, and dropt in or applied to the Ulcer; for shortly after, the generation of new Phlegm is so diminisht, that oft by the help of this one Balsam, I have in a few days perfectly cur'd notable Apostemes after Inflammations, bred both in the Breasts and elsewhere.

By this experiment not a little to be esteem'd I judge the cleansing and consolida∣tion of Ulcers following Apostemes, to con∣sist

in the correction of acid and corroding matter, adhering to the Ulcer, and corrupt∣ing the bloud, (at least in part that is apt to nourish it) and turning it into new matter; which may be corrected by the mention'd Balsam of Sulphur which is not onely Aro∣matical, but abounds with a volatile oily Salt; by which the acid Spirit (which cor∣rupts the bloud into matter) is not onely dull'd, but so amended, that the bloud flow∣ing to it soon repairs the parts before con∣sum'd, and finisheth the last consolidation.

What farther may be deduc'd from this experiment, to perfect Physick and Chyrur∣gery also in other cures, let both ingeni∣ous Physicians, and Chyrurgeons, weigh and judge.

If a Pleurisie, or Peripneumonie, be not carefully cured, and Empiema (which is a collection of purulent matter in the ca∣vity of the Breast) will unavoidably follow.

Wherefore if these Humors cannot be e∣vacuated by expectoration, nor by sweating, pissing, or purging; the matter may be drawn out by a Paracenthesis made in the Breast.

The Apertion may be made four or five in∣ches from the Sternon; not so near the up∣per as the lower rib, because under each rib there is an Intercostal Vein, Arterie and Nerve.

I do not approve of the old way of per∣forming this operation, viz. After the Ori∣fice is made, to put in a Perforated Pipe of Gold, Silver, or Lead, and there to remain till the matter be all discharged.

There is now a safer and surer way where∣in is not onely avoided many difficulties and dangers, but 'tis also done with less trouble and pain to the Patient.

The Instrument must be made of Steel, sharp at the point like a Lancet, and hollow like a quill, with holes in several places to∣wards the point, the better to evacuate the matter.

When the quantity (which you intend) is discharged, draw out the Instrument, and put a little pledget of dry lint on the Orifice, and upon it a sticking plaster; the next day (according to the strength of the sick) repeat it, either in the first place, or make a new Apertion. Thus you may doe every day, till the matter be all discharged.

By this Instrument may a Hydrocele be also discharged, and likewise the Dropsie of the Breast and Abdomen.

They that desire more directions in this Operation, may peruse Hieronymus Fabricius ab aqua pendente, in Libro de Operationibus Chirurgicis.

CHAP. III. Of the consumption or Phthisick, and an Hec∣tick Fever.

THE Consumption is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, Tabesco, because in this disease the sick doth consume or waste away.

It is called in Latin Tabes, which is a ge∣neral name for all Consumptions, whether it be Atrophia, Cachexia, or Phthisis; but it may most properly be taken for an Extenua∣tion of the whole body, caused by an Ulcer of the Lungs.

The purulent matter of the Ulcer circula∣ting with the bloud, doth infect, and by de∣grees corrupt the whole mass of it, which makes it unfit for nourishment; hence it is that all the parts of the body do waste and consume.

The causes are many, sometimes purulent matter may be communicated to the Lungs, from the Plurisie or Empiema, inflaming and corrupting them, which causeth an Ulcer.

Sometimes a salt and sharp Rheum flowing down from the Head to the Trachea Arteria, which doth not onely cause a vehement Coughing, but doth corrode the Lungs being naturally tender; Hence an Ulcer will be caused.

Also many times Pustules, or Tubercles, are generated in the Lungs, and coming to suppuration, they break; and the matter flowing to the Bronchia, it may be spit up, if the Patient have strength; but oft times an Ulcer remaineth, which causeth a Con∣sumption.

These causes depend sometimes on Choler, sometimes on the juice of the Pancreas, some∣times on Spittle, sometimes on Chyle, some∣times on Lympha any way Vitiated, by which the mass of bloud (in time) becomes also corrupted.

When the Lungs decline from their Natu∣ral consistency, they Will soon become hard and tumorous, and so by degrees they will be corrupted, and ulcerated; and the mat∣ter of the Ulcer corrupting, and makeing the mass of bloud glutinous, in circulating with it, doth so weaken and corrupt all the parts of the body, that they become unfit to perfect natural nourishment; and there∣fore of necessity the universal body must con∣sume and pine away; sometimes it is caused by an obstruction of the lacteal veins, which hindreth the natural passage of the Chylus.

Authours mention many more causes of Consumptions; as Gonorrhoea, Nocturnal Pol∣lutions, want of Nourishment, &c.

The signs of a Consumption begun, are a great defluxion of Rheum into the sharp Ar∣tery,

causing a violent Cough, by which the Lungs are exasperated, and there follows a Hectick Fever, sometimes putrid, from the purulent matter flowing into the Veins.

To know whether the Lungs be ulcerated, let the Patient spit into water; if it sinks it is matter, which is an infallible sign of an Ulcer; for Phlegm always swims in water.

When the Ulcer is confirm'd, there is dif∣ficult breathing, and wasting of the whole body; the spittle is thick, and of various colours.

If the Ulcer of the Lungs, and Consump∣tion hath not been long, and the strength of the sick remains, there may be hopes of recovery; & e contra.

The Hectick Fever is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. e. ab habitu; quod in habitu corporis, vel in partibus solidis consistat.

It is an unnatural heat which hath seized upon the solid parts, and wasteth the moi∣sture of them.

The heat in an Hectick Fever is but little, and therefore rarely troublesome to the sick, except one or two hours after meat; at which time the heat is a little sharpned and increased, which may be known by an over frequent though weak Pulse; but it soon re∣turns again to its former equality.

But here it will not be amiss to shew you that there is a threefold moisture in the body,

viz. bloud in the Veins and Arteries, a dewy substance in every part, and also a glutinous moisture; which doth not onely nourish, but moistneth it, and keepeth the substance of each part together.

In the beginning when the moisture begins to fail, the Hectick Fever is not easily discer∣ned because there is still sufficient moisture to entertain the natural heat; but if (by the long continuance of the Hectick Fever) the radical moisture of the solid parts begins to consume, it may then be easily known, for there follows a continual and lingring lean∣ness of the whole body; which being re∣duc'd to its extremity, may be call'd in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and in English an extenuating Fever.

The Latin Authours call it Marcor, which signifies Corruption or Rottenness. It is an immoderate dryness, and Consumption of the whole body, by reason of the defect of the substantial humidity.

There are two degrees of it according to Galen, the one is, when this extenuation of the body is in fieri, in consuming; the other is when it is in facto esse, or consummate; in which the body is reduc'd to such lean∣ness, that it seemeth to be nothing else but a walking Sceleton.

The causes of an Hectick Fever, are Ex∣ternal or Internal.

The External causes are all that may occa∣sion any of the other Fevers, for oft times Hectick Fevers are observ'd to follow other diseases, and especially Fevers of one day, proceeding from a great errour in Diet, and also from continual, and intermitting Fevers, when they are very vehement; but most frequently from Inflammations of the Bowels, especially of the Lungs, for when an Ulcer follows, then the whole mass of bloud is in∣fected by matter, and gets a singular gluti∣nousness; which being communicated to the other humours, spoils them with the same fault, and renders them unfit to perform the natural Functions rightly.

Sometimes Hectick Fevers are observ'd to arise immediately from excess of the nonna∣tural things, as most vehement anger, too much watchings, immoderate sorrow, con∣tinued labour, want of food, &c.

The Internal cause is, the over viscousness of the bloud and humours, because of which not onely the appetite of all food is dimini∣shed, and at length dejected, but the nou∣rishment of all the parts of the body is dayly decreas'd; for when there is loathing of food, then fermentation, separation of usefull from unusefull parts, sanguification, generation of the Animal Spirits, &c. is hindred and de∣stroyed; whence the toughness, and slug∣gishness of Choler, Spittle, the juice of the

Pancreas, and Lympha, is dayly augmented, and the evil becomes by degrees greater, and at length incurable.

If you perceive that there is so much of the radical moisture remaining, as is able to cherish the natural heat, which you may discern, if the colour of the body be fresh, if the figure be decent, if the proportion of the parts be according to nature, and the sick can (in some good measure) perform all ac∣tions, you may conceive some hopes of re∣covery.

But if the Body be extenuated, almost like a Sceleton, viz. when the body seemeth to be nothing else but Skin and Bone, (as the vulgar proverb is) acquaint the sick with the danger, least Death seize upon them un∣prepared.

Nevertheless, if the sick implore your aid of Christian Charity, withdraw not what comfort you are able to procure unto them.

The Cure of a Consumption, and Hectick Fever, will differ not a little, according to the diversity of causes producing them.

When an Hectick Fever comes with, or succeeds Fevers with or without fits, then upon their account, the cure may be varied according to the divers harm of the hu∣mours, differently peccant.

If a Consumption, or Hectick Fever, be caused by purulent matter from an Ulcer of

the Lungs, &c. then you must endeavour to free the bloud and humours from matter, which may be done by any Antimonial me∣dicines rightly prepared, perhaps before all o∣thers; whether they be Diaphoreticks, Pur∣gers, or Vomiters, as experience doth ma∣nifest; for it hath been observ'd, (even in a Phthisick, and an inveterate great Ulcer of the Lungs) to bring away a good quantity of matter, by Stool and Urine, so that then for many days, no matter was cast forth by a Cough.

Among common things, all Vulnerary plants are good used in Decoctions. Let this or one like it, be a form of a Decoction in this case.

Take the Roots of Plantain, Comfry, Round-birthwort, Liquorish, of each two ounces; Fennel, Scabious, Plantain, of each two handfulls; Figs, Raisons of the sun sto∣ned, of each four ounces; let them be all cleansed, bruised and boiled in three quarts of Barley-water till a third part be boiled a∣way; then strain it, and add Syrups of Hore-hound, and Hyssop, of each two oun∣ces; Laudanum opiatum ten grains. Mix it. Let the sick drink two ounces of this Decoc∣tion oft in a day; and if you add one or two drops of Balsam of Sulphur with Oil of An∣nise-seed to every draught, it will be the more effectual. The Balsam prepared of the truly

Sulphureous and inflameable Flowers of Anti∣mony, is most excellent in this distemper, if it may be had, which may be taken as the Bal∣sam of Sulphur.

Also those medicines may be used which mildly amend and correct the viscousness, and glutinousness of all the humours; for which I commend all mild Aromaticks, and Oily Volatile Salts, as that cut and alter every viscous humour, and reduce it into its natural state.

Those medicines are to be selected as do most conduce to, and agree with the con∣stitution of every sick person.

Vitriolated Tartar is an excellent medicine, which will agree with all constitutions, and may be taken from ten to twenty grains (e∣very other morning) in a little warm Broth.

Also the following medicine is very ef∣fectual.

Take the Powder of Cream of Tartar, and Tartar Vitriolated, of each half a drachm; Volatile Salt of Harts-horn, Salt of Amber, of each ten grains. Mix it for two doses, which may be taken in Chicken Broth, in the morning.

These choice medicines will conduce much to cleanse the bloud and humours from all purulent matter, if there be any hopes of the Patient's recovery.

All Effusions of Bloud, Seed and Milk,

are to be shun'd, except the wonted empty∣ings, which are natural and serve the indi∣vidual.

Let the motions of the Mind be moderate, and the exercise of the Body be gentle, and let sleep and watchings keep a mediocrity.

Appoint a moistning and nourishing Diet, which is of easie fermentation, as Broth, and Jellies of young Creatures, and Milk of Goats, Sheep and Cows, and chiefly of wholsome Women.

A Panado made with the Broth of a Chicken, the Crums of White-bread, and the Yelk of a new laid Egg, may sometimes be given the sick for a change.

Let cooling Herbs be boiled in the Broth, and Jellies; adding other ingredients that are cooling, moistning and cordial, both to strengthen Nature, and revive the Spirits.

Let the sick drink Barley-water, made pleasant with some Pectoral Syrup; and if they have been accustomed to drink Wine, let it be well diluted with water.

As for Fruit, Apples are much commended, especially Pippins, and Permains, which will much refresh the sick. If the Patient be cos∣tive, you may sometimes administer a Clyster of Milk and the yelk of an Egg.

The worst symptome that can attend these diseases, is a Loosness; if it so happen, give Goats or Cows milk, wherein steel hath been

quenched, and Rice boiled in it, adding a little Powder of Cinamon, and let the sick eat commonly of it.

CHAP. IV. Of the Palpitation of the Heart.

THIS Disease is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and in Latin, palpitatio Cordis, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, quod leviter ac frequenter com∣movet; because there is an over frequent Pulsation or leaping of Bloud in the Heart, &c.

It is a Convulsive motion of the Heart, with a vehement Systole, and Diastole of it; which sometimes hath been so inordinate, that the Pulsation hath not been onely seen, but heard at a notable distance; yea some∣times it hath been so great, that the adjacent Ribs in young and tender people (who have been afflicted with this distemper) hath been dislocated, and the Aorta or great Artery, hath been much dilated. See Fernelius lib. 5. cap. 12. pag. 292.

This deprav'd motion, or Palpitation of the Heart, is for the most part caused from sharp, viscous and flatuous humours, fre∣quently arising out of the small Guts, and

transmitted to the ventricles of the Heart, and adhereth to them, by which the Heart is provoked to a vehement and unequal con∣traction of it self, without intermission.

These humours are mov'd and driven for∣ward, either by their vitious effervescency; or else they are stirr'd up by violent motion or exercise of the Body, especially in the quick ascending of a steep hill; and some∣times they are constrain'd, or urg'd by grie∣vous Passions of the mind.

Sometimes there have been observ'd fleshy Tumours, and Cartilaginous excrescencies in the Substance of the Heart, when dis∣sected; and those poor Creatures when li∣ving were never free from a vehement Pal∣pitation.

Also Worms have been found in the Pericardium, of some that have been dissec∣ted after death; which without doubt cau∣sed a deprav'd motion, or pulsation of the Heart when living.

That which is caused by fleshy Tumours, Cartilaginous excrescencies, Worms, or any other extraneous thing in the Pericardium, or substance of the Heart, is incurable.

But the Palpitation of the Heart which is caused by acrimonious, flatuous and viscous humours may be cured.

Those medicines must be administred,

that cut, and discuss, and temper an acid Acrimony.

The following Julep may serve for an ex∣ample.

Take the Waters of Parsley, Fennel, of each three ounces; Tincture of Cinamon, Syrup of Mint, of each two ounces; Chy∣mical Oil of Mace ten drops; Spirit of Salt Armoniack twenty drops; Laudanum opiat. ten grains; mix it, let the sick take a spoon∣full of it every quarter of an hour, till they get some ease.

If the distemper hath persever'd long; the peccant humours must be emptied out by purging; and to educe them, I prefer before all others, Pills to be made of Gums, seeing they loosen the glutinous humours, and dis∣pose them to be easier carried out.

For example.

Take of Galbanum prepar'd with Vinegar half an ounce; Powder of Scammony pre∣par'd, Troches Alhandal, of each two drachms; Oil of Carraway twenty drops; make it into a Mass for Pills.

Take five or six of these Pills in the Mor∣ning fasting, twice a week.

They who abhor Pills, may use an Aro∣matick and purging Decoction.

The following though bitter is very effi∣cacious.

Take the five opening Roots, of each one ounce; Roots of Angelica, Berries of Bay and Juniper, of each half an ounce; the best Senna, Orange-peel, Carraway-seed, Coloquintida, of each one drachm; Guiacum four ounces; let them be cleansed, bruised and boiled in two quarts of Fountain-water till half of it be boiled away, then strain it, and add Syrup of Roses with Senna four ounces, Cinamon-water two ounces; mix it.

Let the sick take four ounces of this bit∣ter Decoction, every other Morning; which will by degrees diminish, and mildly educe the hurtfull humours by purging.

But seeing not onely the cause ought to be removed, but also the Symptomes asswag'd, by refreshing the Heart; you must admi∣nister cordial Medicines which have power to corroborate the Heart, and to cherish and strengthen nature.

The following Cordial may be preferred in this Case.

Take the Waters of Baum, Mint, Borage, Cinamon, of each three ounces; Syrups of Baum, red Poppies, of each two ounces; Laudanum opiat. Amber-greese, of each ten grains, mix it.

Let the sick take two spoonfulls of this rich Cordial every three hours, which will wonderfully refresh, and delight the sensi∣ble Stomach, from whence the perfumed

impressions will soon be communicated to the whole Body; by which all the vital and animal Functions will be refreshingly cherished, and strengthned, and the Palpita∣tion of the Heart eased and abated.

If the Patient hath a costive Body, let a carminative Clyster be sometimes admi∣nistred, and if a Plethora concur, let a vein be opened, either with an Instrument in the Arm, or by Leeches applied to the Haemor∣rhoids.

CHAP. V. Of an universal Languishing, as also of Swoun∣ing and Syncope.

AN universal Languishing of the strength of all the parts and functions, is some∣times observ'd to remain after some disease preceding, not rightly cured; especially when the Infirmity hath been grievous, for then a weariness or defect of the Animal motion doth usually concur, together with a weak or little pulse, and dulness and debility of the internal and external senses; whereby the sick continues weak and more languishing (by certain intervalls) than is natural.

All the kinds of Swounings, may be divi∣ded (for methods sake) into two, viz. the lighter kind, and the most grievous.

The lighter kind of Swouning or fainting is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, vel 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 in Latin animae defectio, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 anima, & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 deficere, because it is an Imbecility or Fee∣bleness of the Heart and Courage.

The most grievous and singular kind of swouning, is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 concido, to cut away; quod praeceps viri∣um omnium lapsus.

It is also called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. e. pulsus privatio, because there is no pulse; neither indeed (presently in the fit) is there any Animal or voluntary motion or respiration to be observ'd, so that they are more like dead than living Creatures.

The signs of these fits approaching are yawnings, a Cardialgy, Anxiety of Com∣pression of the Heart, griping and distensi∣on of the Belly, tinkling in the Ears, dim∣ness before the Eyes, and a Giddiness; and at the approach of a Syncope, there are of∣ten Convulsive motions, with a cold and glutinous sweat, and paleness of all the parts of the Body.

The causes of these distempers are either external, or internal.

The external are many, as extreme wea∣riness of the Body, exceeding passions of the

mind, prolong'd hunger or thirst, ungrate∣full smells, the sight of any Person or thing that is envied, too great effusion of Bloud, Seed or Milk, over great evacuation of the humours, by Vomit, Stool, Sweat, Urine, &c.

It may also be caused by the biting or stinging of any venemous Creature, and by any other vehement pain.

Sometimes it is produc'd by a great heat, either of the Sun, Fire, Bath or Fever.

Any of these Causes mention'd (being ex∣treme) may so change, and diminish the natu∣ral effervescency, and rarefaction of the bloud, that the Heart it self is not thereby enough expanded, and contracted: So that the vital bloud cannot be sufficiently effus'd into the Arteries; and therefore the Pulse is felt less and more languishing, yea sometimes none.

The internal Cause is glutinousness encrea∣sed in the bloud, and the other humours; and sometimes an encreased Acidity in the Juice of the Pancreas, Lympha and Spittle; by which the Circulation of the Bloud and Humours becomes too slow; hence the Ventricles of the Heart are not enough dila∣ted, which causeth the Pulse to be weaker than is natural, for the effervescency of the bloud and humours being not potent enough, cannot provoke the Heart to contract it self, and therefore a Swouning or Syncope will inevitably ensue.

They who are much subject to a Swouning or Syncope, dye suddenly.

Those fits which are produc'd from some evident cause, as vehement passions of the mind, immoderate evacuations, &c. are less dangerous than those which come from an internal cause, as glutinousness of the bloud and humours, &c. Which in a great measure hindreth its free Circulation through the Ventricles of the Heart, whereby there is a sudden and swift sailing of the vital Spirits, and consequently of all strength.

To cure an universal languishing, as also a Swouning and Syncope; the phlegmatick, glutinous, and acid Humours must not one∣ly be corrected, but when they abound, must be diminish'd and educ'd out of the Body.

Therefore to correct and amend the said humours abounding, both in the universal Body, and Bloud; I will here set down some forms of select medicines, for the sake of young Physicians.

The following Decoction, is an efficacious Medicine.

Take the Roots of Elicampane, Galan∣gal, Angelica, Calamus Aromaticus, the sive opening Roots, of each one ounce; Sage, Baum, Betony, sweet Marjoram, the Tops of Hore-hound, Centaury, Wormwood, the Flowers of Rosemary, Staechas, Chamomel, Clove-gilliflowers, of each one handfull;

the Seeds of Anise, Sweet-fennel, Parsley, Cardamoms, Berries of Bays and Juniper, of each two drachms; Orange-peel, Cinamon, of each half an ounce; Nutmegs one drachm; let them be cleansed, bruised and infused in two quarts of Fountain-water for a night; then boil it gently till a third part be consu∣med; strain it, and add Syrup of Mugwort, Staechas, tincture of Cinamon, of each two ounces; mix all together.

Two or three ounces of this Decoction may be taken at any time, twice in a day, either before or after meat, that so the pow∣er of the medicine may mildly mix and in∣corporate it self, not onely with the food, but with Spittle in the Stomach, and also with the threefold humour flowing together in the small Guts; and thence with the uni∣versal bloud and humours in all the Veins and Arteries; whereby the desired amendment, and correcting of them will be performed, sooner, easier and more happily.

If any like a medicinal Wine better, they may infuse the aforesaid Ingredients in a suf∣ficient quantity of White-wine, and drink it daily both at dinner and supper time.

These choice Medicines may be continued for some time; but when the sick is weary of them, you may use the same Ingredients in the form of a Powder, or Electuary, or make them into Troches, with Syrup of Stae∣chas, Mugwort, &c.

Or you may make use of those compound Powders which are to be sold at the shops, viz. Spec. Diambr. Diagalangae, Dianthos, &c. all or either of which may be used as aforesaid.

If any will be better pleas'd with Pills than other Forms, you may prescribe these, or some like them.

Take of Galbanum prepar'd with Vinegar two scruples; Powder of Amber, Mastick, of each one scruple; Frankincense, Mirrh, Castor, of each ten grains; Vitriol of Mars prepar'd to whiteness, half a drachm; Chy∣mical Oil of Mace, eight drops; beat them into a mass for Pills.

Let the Patient take four or five of there Pills in the morning fasting, or at night an hour after supper; whereby the viscous phlegmatick and acid humours will be po∣tently corrected, and temper'd; which be∣ing done, the peccant humours may be ef∣fectually educ'd with these hydragogue Pills.

Take Gum, Sagapenum prepar'd with Vi∣negar half a drachm, Rosin of Jallap, Gam∣bogia, of each one scruple; Oil of Juniper four drops; mix them into Pills.

Four or five of these Pills may be admini∣stred at a time; or more or sewer, as the sick is more difficult or easie to be purg'd.

When a swouning Fit or Syncope is near ap∣proaching, give those things that will power∣fully

concentrate the sour flatuous vapours, and discuss the glutinous Phlegm.

The following Volatile, and Aromatick Cordial will conduce much to this purpose.

Take the Waters of Mint, Fennel, Betony, Scurvigrass, Cinamon, of each one ounce; Syrups of Borage, Mint, of each six drachms; Tincture of Castor, Confection of Alkermes, of each two drachms; Salt of Amber one drachm; Spirit of Salt Armoniack twen∣ty drops; Laudanum opiat. Amber-greese, of each six grains; mix it.

The sick may take two or three spoon∣fulls of this Cordial in time of the fit, and likewise both before and after, which will much repair both the Vital and Animal strength, which is wont not a little to lan∣guish in these fits.

None but they who have try'd, will be easily perswaded of the wonderfull efficacy of the aforesaid medicines; not onely in preventing, but in diminishing and soon cu∣ring Swounings and the Syncope.

When either of these fits urgeth, or is upon the party, you must use those outward things, which may stir up the external sen∣ses; as frictions of the external parts, shout∣ings in the Ears; also make a smoak with Am∣ber, or Partridg Feathers at the nose, or hold the Spirit of Salt Armoniack, (in a narrow mouth'd glass) to the Nostrils. You may

also wring the Fingers, and pull the Hair, &c.

If you have not a Cordial ready, give Cinamon, or Treacle water, or the Apoplec∣tick or Antepileptick waters, or for want of them, Brandy, Aqua vitae or strong Wine may serve.

CHAP VI. Of Fevers in General.

A Fever is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, vel a feritate morbi, that is from the fierceness of the disease.

It is called febris in latin a fervore, quasi fervens, because it is a hot distemper.

A Fever is a nonnatural heat, which may be so termed, because it is more than nature requires, for the continual management of her vital functions; for when nature is grie∣ved, or over-burthned by any distemper, there is a strugling endeavour of nature her self to remove it, which causeth this non∣natural heat.

It may be called the Prince of diseases, be∣cause it is the general door, through which most of humane mortals take their exit of this world.

The cause of the preternatural frequen∣cy of the pulse, is either a permanent and over rarefaction of the bloud, or any sharp, sour, or salt vapour carried to the Heart, corroding the internal substance of it; by which the Archaeus or vital Airy spirit of the Heart is provoked to allarm all the faculties, and powers both vital and natural, that it may the more couragiously resist its inva∣ding Enemy, so that the spirits are thereby much stirred up and inflamed; from whence proceedeth a Conflagration, or vitious Effer∣vescency of the Bloud and Humours through∣out the whole Body.

Fevers are either continual, or intermit∣ting.

A continual Fever is that which remains from the first moment of its invasion, to the last of its duration.

When a continual Fever is very mild, and remains but one day; it is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 dies, quod diem durans.

It is called in Latin Diaria, & Ephemera febris.

This Fever is often excited by sudden passi∣ons of the mind, as vehement anger, &c. and also by our abode too long in the Sun, or by vitiously using any other of the six nonnatural things so called; for which there is no great need to prescribe Medicines for a Cure, it being not difficult, the very nature

of such a Fever terminating it self, most com∣monly by a breathing sweat, especially if you substract the Patient from the inflammatory Cause.

If the Fever continues longer, it may be called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, ex 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, continuo. From whence it is called in Latin febris con∣tinua, quae nullas hujusmodi mutationes habet, quae accessiones videri possint, sed unicam modo accessionem a principio usque ad finem nullis exa∣cerbationibus distinctam.

The continual Fever is also called Homo∣tona, quae fimilem calorem ad finem usque ser∣vat.

It is also called Acmastica, quae continuo cres∣cit & intenditur.

A Synochus, or continual Fever, may be divided into two sorts, viz. that which is not putrid, called in Latin Synochus non putrida, and that which is putrid, called Synochus putrida.

In a Synochus non putrida, the bloud, and other humours is a little sharper than is na∣tural, and the heat somewhat great and va∣porous, declining a little to the nature and manner of those called putrid.

Continual Fevers are oft times mixt or compounded with those intermitting, having some fits, and again remissions, so that they are not intermitting, but still remain conti∣nual.

These fits come sometimes every day, sometimes the third, and sometimes the fourth day; whence it may deservedly be nam'd, either a Quotidian, Tertian, or Quar∣tan continual Fever.

These Fevers upon the account of their divers causes, may not unfitly be distinguish'd into Cholerick and Lymphatick Fevers.

And because under the general name of Lympha, we do not onely comprehend, that Lympha which goes from the conglobated Glandules, and other parts to the Heart; but also the Juice of the Pancreas, and Spittle it self, proceeding from the conglomerated Glan∣dules, and also the Liquour that ariseth from the three-fold sway of the Guts, all mixt toge∣ther with Lympha, and the bloud in circula∣ting with it.

Hence may Lymphatick fevers be subdivi∣ded into glandular, pancreatick and salivary Fevers.

All these Fevers may differ something accor∣ding to the divers Constitution of other hu∣mours together being in the Body.

But I shall wave the nice descriptions and differences of Fevers, and let the dextrous, and judicious Physician put a difference be∣tween them, as their Symptoms shall direct and indicate, for though there are many sorts of continual Fevers not putrid, yet the Cure is almost the same in all; I shall there∣fore

(in a few words) mention some of their differences, taken from the more grievous Symptoms oft accompanying them; after the example of famous Practioners, and chiefly great Platerus, and the most famous Hel∣mont, and judicious Sylvius, &c.

1. First, let us take notice of the excee∣ding heat, and most urgent burning, which attend some Fevers.

It is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, which doth sig∣nifie burning; in which the sick is very dry and thirsty, which is hard to be quenched.

This heat is not of the essense of the di∣sease, but proceedeth from the inflamed spi∣rits, as is before mention'd in page 98.

Neither doth the great thirst in Fevers, pro∣ceed from heat and driness, as in a true and natural thirst, but from some excrementitious matter, which adhereth to the sensitive fa∣culty of the internal membrane of the Sto∣mach, which is common to the Throat, Mouth and Lips, as that famous Physician, and ingenious Anatomist Doctour Alexander Read, did well observe; which is also the cause, that those parts are always afflicted in this dry and thirsty distemper.

In this Symptome, Choler is peccant, not onely in a salt Acrimony, but also an infla∣mable oiliness; hence the Pulse is very great, and over frequent, &c.

2. Raving may be oft observ'd in many Fevers, which is grievous to the sick for some time, chiefly when the Fever is malign, or epidemical.

The cause of this is Choler peccant as a∣foresaid, which so diminisheth the viscousness of the Juice of the Pancreas, that it causeth a vitious Effervescency with it, and being made sharper, it produceth a humour not much unlike black Choler, which causeth the Head-ach, and Watchings, and hence Ravings, and at length sometimes Convulsi∣ons, and Death it self.

There are many more Symptoms belong∣ing to continual or synochal Fevers.

1. As first, a speedy wasting of several parts of the body, caused by Choler, the Cure whereof may be referred to the Cure of a Hectick Fever.

2. A malignity, which suddenly dejecteth the vital strength, without manifest cause; which for the most part is Epidemical. But of this I intend to treat particularly in Chap. 8. of this Book.

3. The last Symptome which I shall here mention, is seldom observ'd; in which (all the time of the disease) the external parts are cold, while the internal parts burn; and therefore 'tis called by the Latins Lipyria fe∣bris, and in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, quia destitu∣itur ardore externo.

Some think this distemper consists of a double Fever, Cholerick, and Pancreatical; and not without reason, because such like va∣pours may be continually rais'd in the small guts, by the Juices of the Pancreas universal∣ly over-sour; which may be confus'd onely with the Mass of Bloud, and breed a sense of cold in the habit of the Body, whilst a burning heat is stir'd up in the internal parts by a Fever, caused by Choler more oily than sharp.

The cause of every continual Fever not putrid, is sometimes Choler vitiated, some∣times Lympha together with the Juice of the Pancreas and Spittle, and many times all these together are ill affected.

These vitiated humours flowing always to the Heart, cause a continual Effervescency in the right Ventricle of it; whence the Pulse is continually produc'd more frequent against nature.

Fevers in Children are caused either by the Food abounding in quantity, or by some vi∣tious quality of it, or from an ill disposition of the digestive ferment.

Milk is the general Food of Children, and there is such a propensity in its own nature to curdle, that if it be not quickly digested, it obeyeth the acid Ferment of the Stomach, and is soon coagulated like new tough Cheese, and if it be not speedily vomited up, it be∣gets

a putrefactive Ferment, which pro∣duceth terrible Symptoms, as griping, scou∣ring, vomiting, &c.

I know a Woman, that had a young Child about a Month old, which was taken very ill with Convulsions, after which followed a thorough Thrush, with a Fever, accompanied with the aforesaid Symptoms, as griping, &c. which continu'd many days, till the whole body was so maciated, that it was in a total Atrophia; and when there was no hopes of recovery, the Nurse gave the Child a little of the infusion of the Antimonial Cup, which caused it to vomit up a Curd, three or four inches long, very green, and as tough as new Cheese: After which the Child did won∣derfully recover and grow fat.

Continual acute Fevers are oft times ac∣companied with a secret malignity, and there∣fore dangerous; parvoe febres quandoque valde malignoe.

The Stomach (in continual Fevers) is most commonly primarily affected through undigestion, or else from Excrements, not being separated and orderly evacuated; which causeth an irregular Ferment, or nonnatural heat in the Stomach; which (though begun else where) is much aggravated by vitiating Juices, found in this first Elaboratory of de∣cocting Nature.

For as in humane frame, the first heat of Nature (preparatory to all her depending motions) is the digestive heat for Chylifica∣tion in the Stomach; so likewise the cor∣rupting or exasperating of the same, either by the sour Ferments, or too much of the overflowing Gall, is the Cause of most Fevers.

Therefore in the beginning of the Cure, evacuation by vomiting never ought to be neglected by the carefull Physician (provided it be duely timed) because then most com∣monly it removeth the sole cause of the fe∣verish Intemperature, without the help of any other means.

And here I commend Antimonials well prepared, before all others, seeing that An∣timony as well rightly prepar'd, as admi∣nistred, serves no less to purifie Man's bo∣dy than Gold.

But if the Patient's body be costive, and there be eminent signs of a Plethora, or great fulness of Bloud; then let a carminative Clys∣ter be first administred, and after its operati∣on let a Vein be opened, and draw seven or eight ounces of bloud at a time, and if there be occasion let it be reiterated; for I always prefer its repeated less diminution, (as need requires) sometimes instituted in the same day, before great evacuations made suddenly, which hath brought many Evils to the sick.

It matters little what vein be opened, un∣less in Women, because of the monthly Terms either at hand, or hindred.

And seeing it is the duty of every honest Physician to be Natures helper, he ought to endeavour to remove all impediments, where∣by the sick may be cured more quickly, safely and pleasantly, without demurs, to magnifie the Cure, and inflame the recko∣nings.

Wherefore since the first curative intenti∣on of most Fevers, is the discharge of the first turgent Monitor from the Stomach, and adjacent parts by vomiting, as is before said.

Let the Patient (upon the discovery of the assaulting Enemy) take an Antimonial Emetick, and if one doth not suffice, let it be reiterated; by which the Morbifick matter will be evacuated, nature calmed, and the contemperating of the incited, or enraged nonnatural heat, will be the easier performed.

But here the Sex is to be consider'd, the Female not so well enduring this evacuati∣on; because Emeticks cause great Com∣motions, and flatuous Vapours in them; which may also prevent or corrupt natures own intentions in her great discharge of turgent humours.

Wherefore administer no Emetick to them, except they vomit very easily; but rather let the peccant humours be diminisht, or emptied out gradually by the following de∣coction to be taken twice a day to three or four ounces.

Take the Roots of Parsly, Fennel, Plan∣tain, Peony, Dandelion, Succory, of each two ounces; the Leaves of Endive, House∣leek, Fumitory, Damask-roses, of each one handfull. Let them be cleansed, bruised and infused (for a Night) in one quart of Foun∣tain-water very hot, then boil it gently till a third part be consumed, strain it and add Syrup of Succory with Rhubarb, the best Man∣na, of each two ounces; Powder of Cream of Tartar, and Tartar vitriolated, of each two drachms; Oil of Sulphur twenty drops; mix it all together.

This pleasant Medicine will conduce much to correct the salt sharpness of Choler, and will also amend its Oily inflameableness, and separate it from the Bloud, and mildly dispose it, and the rest of the abounding hu∣mours to be voided out by stool.

After these Evacuations, give the sick the following Medicine twice a day in a little thin broth, or Water-gruel.

Take Salt of Amber, volatile Salt of Harts∣horn, Tartar vitriolated, of each six grains; mix it.

This excellent volatile Medicine is both abstersive, and Diuretick, and will cleanse the Stomach and Intestines of the remaining Sordes, and expell them by Urine.

In the Declination of the Fever, if sleep be wanting; this following Julep will much avail, both to cause rest, and refresh the spirits.

Take the Waters of Carduus benedict. Fen∣nel, of each two ounces; Treacle-water, Sy∣rup of red Poppies, of each one ounce; Lau∣danum opiatum six grains; Salt of Worm∣wood half a drachm; Spirit of Salt twenty drops; mix it, and give the sick three or four spoonfulls every three hours.

By the frequent use of this Cordial Julep, (or one like it) all pains will be eased, na∣ture quieted and relieved, and the importu∣nate thirst allayed.

But if thirst still urgeth, give the dulcifi∣ed Spirit of Salt, or of Niter, in Posset-drink, and all the Liquids they take, from six, to ten or twelve drops at a time.

If you fear there be any Malignancy in the Fever; give the sick eight or ten grains of Bezoardic. mineral. every fourth hour, in a spoonfull or two of the aforesaid Julep, or good sound Canary-wine, to keep the Pati∣ent in a breathing sweat.

As for the Cure of Fevers attended with grievous and furious raging, and watch∣ings,

&c. I refer you to the Chapter of Phren∣sies, which is full to this purpose.

I shall now give some directions to young Physicians and Nurses, and so conclude this Chapter of Fevers in general.

1. First, give no Opiats in the beginning of a Fever, because they tye up the Archaeus of the Stomach, and first passages, thereby hin∣dring it from expelling, the occasional cause of the Disease.

2. Give the sick neither Mithridate, nor Diascordium (as is the common custome) nor apply it to the Wrists, nor Stomach, (nor any thing else that is nauseous) whilst Na∣ture and the Disease are strugling; but if the Patient tends to coldness, you may moisten a piece of Rose-cake, or a tost of stale Bread in Sylvius's Spirit, or for want thereof in Brandy dulcified, and apply it to the Sto∣mach twice a day, which will revive nature, and fortifie it against the invading Enemy.

3. Give no meat whilst the disease is on them, for the Stomach is not fit to receive it, neither hath it strength to digest it; and therefore it will become a recruit or supply to the Disease, except it be speedily vomited up again.

4. If it be a Child, give it not any Milk, and if it Suck, wean it; for Milk is the first matter, and foundation of this disease in them; neither give it Beer, nor water, nor

any cooling things to correct the heat, be∣cause it will weaken nature, and strengthen the Disease.

But hot Posset-drink turn'd with White∣wine, or sound Beer with a little Vinegar, may be drank liberally, after the Cause is removed.

5. If the sick be Adult, you may give two parts of Water, and one of good Wine, ei∣ther French Wine or Sherry; but Malaga, or any other sweet Wine is not so good.

6. When the Patient begins to recover, the plainest broths, and gruels, are the best; till then a little is too much; and if you did use Salt and Vinegar, instead of Spice and Sugar, it would agree better with them.

CHAP. VII. Of intermitting Fevers.

AN intermitting Fever is that which re∣turns after intervalls, sometimes longer, sometimes shorter in divers Fits; whence accor∣ding to the divers space of every access or fit; the same gets also divers Names, for if a new Fit return daily, answering the precedent in proportion, it is called a Quotidian.

If it comes every other day, it is called a Tertian.

If the fit return after two days intermissi∣on, it is called a Quartan, and so forward, although Quintans, Sextans, &c. are seldom observ'd.

And here you may note, that intermit∣ting Fevers do but seldom return in the ex∣act intervall of natural days of twenty four hours; but return quicker or slower, for the most part; wherefore then they are said to anticipate the expected time for some hours, which is disliked, or to come later, which is commended by some.

Although it matters not, whether the fits anticipate, or come later; if so be that their continuance, and the grievousness of Symptoms (daily accompanying) be di∣minish'd.

There is great diversity among Authours concerning the Causes of intermitting Fe∣vers, which I shall not insist on; but in a few words will set down the true Causes of them.

The causes then, are either external, or internal.

The external Cause of Agues is a stop of the usual necessary discharge of fermenting humours; the porous skin (being shut by external sudden cold) denies passage to the constant discharge of the sweatty humours,

which happens most commonly about Au∣tumn; and likewise when any comes sud∣denly out of a hot Climate, into a cold Re∣gion; for the sweatty Vapours being detain'd by the Constipation of the skin, or shutting of the Pores, the same condense, and thence become sour, which chills the external parts, and causeth the shaking, or shivering cold fit, at the first invasion of this disturbing Foreigner; after which the inflaming Fer∣ment of Choler (being exasperated) doth act its part, and (having gain'd Dominion) it doth rarefie the Bloud by degrees; whence the Pulse becomes greater and stronger) which is increas'd by an irritation of the Acrimony of Choler, and the rarefaction of the Bloud at the Heart; for the heat and burning in the Heart, and thence in the whole Body, is increas'd by Choler succes∣sively over-ruling.

The internal Cause of Agues or intermit∣ting Fevers, is an obstruction of one or more of the lateral ducts or branches of the Pancreas or Sweet-bread, by reason of viscous Phlegm; which being separated from the Bloud by the Glandules of the Pancreas, is there collected by degrees; whence it is sent (in too large a quantity) to the main duct or pipe thereof, which detaineth the Juice of the Pancreas contrary to nature, which

ought continually to flow into the small Gut called Duodenum.

The Juice of the Pancreas, which is natu∣rally sourish, being compelled to stand still in its passage, quickly grows more acrimo∣nious, or acid; because the Volatile Spirit (which is naturally conjoin'd to it, to temper it) doth gradually fly away; by which this Juice (becoming more sharp and acid) ac∣quires a putrefactive Ferment; whence at length it makes way through the obstructing Phlegm, and is effused into the Duodenum, where meeting with Choler, it stirs up a vitious effervescency, or preternatural Fer∣ment, from whence comes the Ague fit, with all its Symptoms; as in the beginning Horrour, Chilness, Cold, Shaking, &c. then presently follows Reachings, Yawning, and Vomiting, &c.

At length acrimonious and flatulent Va∣pours (raised by the aforesaid vitious Effer∣vescency) are carried through the Lacteal veins, and Thoracick passage, and so through the Vena cava ascendens, (in what form soever) to the right Ventricle of the Heart; and by its Acrimony, alters and troubles the vital Effervescency, and by over stirring the Heart, causeth a more frequent Pulse; and many times produceth grievous Symptoms, as great Heat and Thirst, difficulty of brea∣thing, Heart-ach, Raving, Swouning, and

all other Symptoms, that happen in all in∣termitting Fevers.

The nature of viscous Phlegm is such, that though it be pierced through by the Juice of the Pancreas too acid and acrimoni∣ous, yet it doth presently run together and unite again, and so repairs and renues the obstruction that was in part opened; and the Juice of the Pancreas being stopped as be∣fore, grows sour by standing still as afore∣said, so that it forceth through the Phlegm that stopped its natural passage, and so pro∣duceth, a new fit; sooner or later, as the Phlegm (obstructing the lateral passage of the Pancreas) is pierced through by the fore∣mention'd Juice.

For if the obstructing Phlegm be not very glutinous, and the Juice of the Pancreas be plentifull and acid, a new fit of an in∣termitting Fever will return in the space of twenty four hours, and therefore 'tis called a Quotidian

But if the Phlegm be very viscous and plen∣tifull, and the Juice of the Pancreas be little in quantity, and also tart and obtuse; so much the slower will the new fit of the intermitting Fever be produced; so that it is sometimes three, sometimes four days, be∣fore the returning of the fit; from whence it is called a Quartan, or Quintan, &c.

So likewise as oft as the obstructing

Phlegm, and the Juice of the Pancreas are in a medium, viz. The Phlegm more glutinous and plentifull, than in the Quo∣tidian, but not so much as the Quartan; as likewise the Juice of the Pancreas is more in quantity, and more acid than in the Qutartan, but not so plentifull and acid, as in a Quoti∣dian) so oft new fits of intermitting Fevers will return almost every other day, from whence they may be called Tertians, which much differ in their Symptoms beyond what other intermitting Fevers do, although none of them return in the exact intervall of the Days or Hours before mention'd, but return quicker or slower for the most part.

The Cure of all intermitting Fevers will be perform'd.

1. First, if the glutinous coagulated Phlegm, (which is the cause of the obstruction) be cut and dissolv'd, and wholly carried out of the Body.

2. If the increas'd Acidity, and Acrimony of the Juice of the Pancreas, be temper'd and corrected.

3. If its vitious Effervescency with Choler, &c. In the small Gut, behindred and amended.

Phlegm obstructing will be cut most com∣modiously with Aromaticks, and any Vola∣tile Salt.

This Volatile Aromatick Julep may serve for Example.

Take the Waters of Carduus, Parsley, Fen∣nel, Fumitery, Succory, Treacle, Cinamon, of each one ounce; Syrup of Carduus, the five opening Roots, of each an ounce and half; Powder of Crabs-eyes, Tartar vitrio∣lated, of each one drachm; Salt of Amber, Antimony Diaphoretick, of each half a drachm; Laudanum opiat. ten grains; Oil of Cloves six drops; mix it.

Take a spoonfull of this Volatile Medi∣cine, often in a day throughout the whole Cure, using some exercise, that thereby the whole Body may grow warm, and the force of the medicine being disperst over all the Body, may come at last to the lateral passages of the Pancreas, and dissolve the obstruction.

Three or four hours before the coming of the fit, you may give three or four spoon∣fulls of the aforesaid Cordial, which will not onely cause a breathing sweat, but will temper and correct the increas'd Acidity and Acrimony of the Juice of the Pancreas, and hinder, and amend its vitious Effervescency with Choler, &c. in the small gut, which will conduce much to a Cure.

Three hours before the return of the next fit, administer an antimonial Emetick, which is in this case proper before all others; for by the help thereof, not onely Choler aboun∣ding, but also phlegm obstructing, will be

expell'd to the small gut, and thence to the Stomach, and at length by the mouth; and the straining to vomit doth many times pro∣cure a stool or two, which is very beneficial.

But if the sick be a Female, or vomiting be prejudicial, or not approv'd of; then such things as cut and purge phlegm downwards, may be administred, for example.

Take of pil. faetidae one drachm; Mercur. dulcis, Powders of Troches Alhandal, Scam∣mony prepar'd, Tartar vitriolated, of each half a Scruple, Salts of Amber and Worm-wood, of each one Scruple; Spirit of Salt Armoniack, Oil of Amber, of each ten drops, with Syrup of Buckthorn; make it into a Mass for Pills.

Take four or five of these Pills, four hours before the coming of the fit; which will both cut, and purge the viscous Phlegm out of the Body, and also educe other peccant humours.

After purging or vomiting, let the sick often take the following Powder in a glass of generous Wine, or in two or three spoon∣fulls of the Cordial Diaphoretick before men∣tion'd, to provoke sweat as is there directed.

Take Volatile Salt of Harts-horn, Salts of Amber, Worm-wood and Carduus, Tartar vitriolated, of each ten grains; Sugar of Pearls the weight of them all, mix them for two doses.

You may take a dose of it two or three hours before the access of the fit; which will wonderfully conduce to dissolve the ob∣struction, and cause a breathing sweat.

Let these evacuations be as often reiterated as occasion requires.

If the intermitting Fever hath continu'd long, or the sick hath a Plethorick body, let a vein be opened.

By these few forms the young Practitioner may easily invent other effectual Medicines, in some things to be varied as the distemper requires.

CHAP. VIII. Of Malignant Fevers.

IN the Chapter of Fevers in general I told you, that Synochal, or continual Fevers, were without any fit, to their last and com∣plete ceasing; and likewise I did distinguish them into putrid, and not putrid.

Those that are not putrid, have little or no malignity in them, but the putrid are al∣ways accompanied with malignity.

A malignant Fever differs from others in this, that it draws its putrefaction immedi∣ately

from its own matter, putrefaction be∣ing joined with it; from whence the vital strength is suddenly, and unexpectedly de∣jected; or far more grievous Symptoms oc∣cur, than are wont to be observ'd in such a like disease.

Malign Fevers are either more acute, en∣ding in few days; or longer, continuing more days.

And they are either contagious, and epi∣demical raging among many in the same time, having a common cause, as the Air or Food vitiated, &c. Infecting others, or else they are not contagious.

Among contagious Fevers, we may not neglect to speak something of a Calenture, because it is a contagious distemper, assaul∣ting not onely those which use the Sea; but also many that live near the Sea-shore, in Sea-port Towns, &c. are subject to it.

The signs of this disease are a great pain of the Head, sometimes with violent raging fits, and delirium, the rest of the Body being in good temper; the sick do fancy the Wa∣ter to be a green Meadow, and will indea∣vour to get into it.

The cause of a Calenture is the intempe∣rature of the Climate, together with ill diet, causing strong obstructions, and an ill habit of body, by which flatuous vapours are en∣creas'd in the body, and in time ascend to the Head.

The cause of the malignity (in this, and all other putrid fevers) is a sharp volatile salt in the Air, which is drawn into tbe Lungs by degrees, and weakens the liquor of the glandules (which is naturally sourish) and makes it sluggish, and of little force, whence the natural consistency of the bloud is diminish'd, and the separation of the Ani∣mal spirits often hindred.

The sharp volatile salt aforesaid, may be also swallowed down with food or spittle in∣to the Stomach, or it may enter the pores of the body; by which not onely the liquor of the glandules, but the bloud also may be infected; hence depends the variety of symp∣toms which may be observ'd in these Dis∣eases.

In Malign fevers, there oft precedes a light shivering, after which a gentle heat soon fol∣lows; the pulse is frequent and unequal, though little and weak, and sometimes de∣ficient, the sick is often drowsie, and possest with a kind of Lethargy; and when they sleep, they are often vex'd with turbulent dreams; they are often grip'd in the Sto∣mach, and troubled with loathing and vo∣miting, accompanied with the Head-each, raving, giddiness, &c. also there is great thirst, weariness, and unquietness of the whole body; sometimes there happens cho∣lerick and fetid loosnesses; and also a hae∣morrhage

at the nose or womb doth often concur.

1. If tumors in the glandules, and spots and little pimples, divers both in colour and greatness, do break forth in many parts of the body, they are signs of great maligni∣ty.

2. If the sick get no ease after sweating promoted by Art, there is little hopes of re∣covery; also if the extreme parts soon wax hot, and again are presently cold, 'tis an ill sign.

First to preserve and defend the body from all malignity, and infection in time of con∣tagion.

I commend the frequent, and moderate use of sour and tart things mixt with all things potable, for the Patient's drink, or food; as Barberries, Quinces, Oranges, Pom∣granates, Limmons, Wood-sorrel, Verjuice, Vinegar, &c.

In the beginning of malign Fevers, and also the Calenture, if a loathing urgeth, part of the acrimonious volatile salt adheres to the tunicles of the Stomach; wherefore in this Case, first administer an Antimonial Emetick, which is well prepared, mild and fixt, be∣cause it hath an admirable sulphur in it, whereby any sharpness is wonderfully tem∣per'd, and the Malign Poison is thereby in part sent out by Vomit and Stool.

After the Operation of the Emetick, let a Cordial Sudorifick be presently admini∣stred, that the remaining part of the Malign Poison may be driven forward, and expelled most safely, and commodiously out of the Body.

The following Cordial may serve for ex∣ample.

Take of Epidemical water, Spirit of Vine∣gar, of each one ounce; The Waters of Treacle, and Cinamon, of each half an ounce; the Waters of Carduus, Scabious, of each two ounces; Syrups of the Juice of Carduus, Clove-gilliflowers, of each one ounce and half; Antimonie Diaphoretick, Bezoar-mineral, of each one drachm; Ve∣nice-treacle, two drachms; mix it.

Let the sick take a quarter of this Dia∣phoretick Julep, and dispose the Body to sweat, and after half an hour, take one or two spoonfulls more, and so go on, till a profitable Sweat follow.

In the interim if the sick be thirsty, let them drink a little warm Broth temper'd to a gratefulness, with juice of Oranges, Ci∣trons, or Verjuice, &c. whereby the break∣ing forth of the sweat will not onely be pro∣moted, but also the hurtfull Acrimony of the peccant Salt will be corrected, and as∣swaged.

After this excellent medicine hath been

sufficiently and rightly us'd, so that you per∣ceive the Malign Poison to be carried out of the Body; yet you must persist in the moderate use of it, as likewise in the use of four things, a little Harsh, mixt with drink, or Broth as beforesaid; because they much conduce to restore (by degrees) the former consistency to the Bloud.

In Calentures, Phlebotomy may be safe∣ly used.

CHAP. IX. Of the Plague or Pestilence.

THE Plague or Pestilence is called in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, solvo, quod vitam solvat.

It is called in Latin Pestilentia, & Pestis, ex depascendo, quod veluti incendium depascat.

It is also called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, percutio hinc Angl. the Plague.

Pestis significat omne malum; quod tam ina∣nimis quam animatis mortem & exitium repen∣tino adfert.

The Plague is a contagious disease, sud∣denly afflicting the Heart, and all the vital, animal and natural faculties with many grie∣vous Symptoms.

The Cause is chiefly the sins of Mankind, provoking the great God to send this Pesti∣ferous distemper as a judgment on them for their Impiety.

The Cause (next to God's judgment) is a sharp venemous and contagious volatile Salt in the Air, very much heightned (inspi∣red with the Air into the Lungs, or is swal∣lowed down with the food or spittle into the Stomach; it may also get in through the pores into the Body) by which the acid li∣quor in all the conglobated glandules is weak∣ned and made sluggish, that it doth not cir∣culate with its wonted force: whence the natural consistency and rarefaction of the Bloud is diminsht, and the separation of the Animal Spirits hindred; and the vital strength is much opprest, by which the Pulse becomes not onely little, but also languishing; till at length the Spirits are extinguisht, and Death (unexpected to many) carries them speedily (torrenti similis) in fiery Chariots, God knows where.

All the signs in Malign Fevers are com∣mon (and much heightned) in the Pest; be∣sides many other grievous symptoms, as Di∣arrhaea, Hemorrhage at the Nose, Ears, Eyes, Mouth and Secrets; sometimes yellowness of the Eyes, Buboes in the Groins, Armpits, and behind the Ears, and in some white Blad∣ders,

and Carbuncles, also spots called the Tokens, with raving, &c.

1. The Pest is deceitfull above all other dis∣eases, therefore no certain prognostick can be drawn of it; for many have died when there hath been great hopes of recovery, and on the contrary, many have escaped with mortal signs.

2. A Bubo is less dangerous than a Car∣buncle, and it than the spots, (vulgarly the Tokens) which most commonly portend Death wheresoever they are.

3. Buboes incompassed with a blue or livid circle, are most commonly a mortal sign, especially if they suddenly disappear, unless the Malign humour be sent to some other part; and if with a Bubo behind the Ears, there be pain of the Throat without inflammation 'tis mortal.

4. If a Carbuncle rise after a Bubo, and look white, with a litle push or tail at the end of it, 'tis dangerous, except the Fever do very much abate; and if after cauterizing, or cupping, the Carbuncle abate not in twenty four hours, 'tis a sign of Death ap∣proaching, except matter appear; and if Carbuncles seize the Stomach, Guts, Blad∣der, or other Intrails, it portends Death.

5. Deliriums, Drowsiness, Heart-ach, Trembling, Convulsions, great driness of Tongue, are all bad signs; also a Dysentery

is most commonly mortal; but a Hemor∣rhage at the Nose, or Menses are not so dan∣gerous.

To preserve from this Pestiferous distem∣per, although transmigration in the fear of God may be lawfull, yet let none think to escape by flying, and so neglect their duties to God, for 'tis impossible to run out of his reach, for he filleth Heaven and Earth with his presence; wherefore let servent prayers be put up to God, whose com∣passions fail not; and then make use of an honest Physician.

1. You must endeavour to purifie the infect∣ed Air, with great fires, wash the house daily, and after sprinkle it with Vinegar; and Fume either with Pitch, Frankincense, Mirrh, Amber, Benjamin, Wood, and Berries of Juniper, &c.

2. Avoid all passions, watchings, and im∣moderate exercise and venery.

3. Eat nothing that is hard of concoction, and use a moderate diet though easie of digestion, and drink good sound Wine, &c.

4. Go not forth with an empty Stomach, but always take some preservative against infection. For example,

Take Spirit of Vinegar, Julep of Roses, of each one ounce; mix it.

Vinegar, Verjuice, Oranges, Limmons, Citrons, Pomgranats, Barberries, Quinces, Wood-sorrel, &c. are all very good, used

as before directed in Malign Fevers.

This Poison must not be sent out by vo∣miting or purging; neither is phlebotomy allowed.

For it is known by manifold experience, that the cure of the Pest is most happily instituted by Cordial Sudorificks, rightly prepar'd of Antimony, because it hath an admirable Sulphur in it, whereby not onely sharpness is wonderfully temper'd, but the Malign poisonous volatile Salt is thereby most safely driven forward, and expelled by sweating out of the Body; to which may be added other Cordials, as followeth.

Take the Powders of Crabs-eyes, Tartar vitriolated, Antimony Diaphoretick, Be∣zoar-mineral, of each one scruple; Bezoar-stone of the East, red Coral prepar'd, Salts of Rhue, Scordium, of each half a scruple; Ve∣nice-treacle, two drachms; Spirit of Salt ten drops; mix it into an Electuary with confectio de Hyacintho.

Let the sick take half a drachm of this Cordial Electuary every three hours, and drink three or four spoonfulls of this Cordi∣al Julep after it.

Take of Epidemical-water, the Waters of Carduus, Borage, Scordium compound, of each three ounces; the Waters of Treacle, Cinamon, Syrups of the juice of Carduus, and Limmons, Syrup of Saffron, of each one

ounce; Salt Prunella, and Salt of Worm∣wood, of each one drachm; Laudanum o∣piat. ten grains; mix it for a Cordial.

Let the sick person take the aforesaid medicines, till sweat is plentifully provoked; then let the sweat be gently wiped off with warm linen cloaths.

In the mean while give the sick a little hot Chicken-broth, or other Broth of fresh Meat, temper'd to a gratefulness with some sour thing, as was directed in Malign Fevers, as Barberries, Wood-sorrel, Limmons, &c.

You must persist in this course till the danger be over, and some time after, (though the sick think themselves well) lest the disease deceive you by a sudden surprize a∣gain.

There are many Cordial Confections al∣ways to be had ready at Apothecaries Shops, as Mithridate, Diascordium, Venice-trea∣cle, London-treacle, Treacle-water, &c. any of which may be used by the Rich or Poor, for they will not onely cause sweat∣ing, but also will temper and moderate the hurtfull acrimony of the volatile Salt before mentioned.

You may dip a hot Toast in aq. prophy∣lactica, and apply it to the region of the Stomach, and also tye some of it in a rag, and smell to it.

If there be great drowsiness, avoid Opiates,

and take the Cordial Julep without the Lau∣danum; but if there be great Watching, Vomiting, Flux of the Belly, or Hicket, you may give it with the Laudanum pre∣scrib'd, for it will much conduce to ease the sick of all these symptoms.

If there be a Bubo, apply a strong Vesic∣catory, and when the Blister is well raised, open it, and dress it with Mustard, and Ba∣silicon, of each equal parts; after cure it ac∣cording to Art.

If there be a Carbuncle, apply Leeches, or Ventoses, with scarification, or the Ac∣tual or Potential Cautery, after which of∣ten apply Mithridate, 'till the Eschar be se∣parated; then dress it with Unguent. Basili∣con, and Aegyptiacum, or else you may use Butter of Antimony 'till the Ulcer be well cleansed and fitted for the last consolidati∣on which may be performed by any desicca∣tive Medicine.

CHAP. X. Of the Small-pox, and Measles.

THE Small-pox, and Measles are cal∣led in Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and in Latin Morbilli, quasi parvi morbi, vel parvorum morbi.

They are also called Variolae, & Pustulae, ex vario, vel varium facio, quod cutis fit varia. Because the skin is of various forms.

These distempers are most commonly at∣tended with a Malign Fever, which oft proves Epidemical, Contagious and Mortal, and therefore may justly be termed Pestilen∣tial.

The Small-pox is a cutaneous Eruption, or large Pustules, something like to Warts on the Skin, with Inflammation, which in few days comes to suppuration, if the sick recover.

The Measles are little Pustules in the Skin, with a deep redness, and may be best per∣ceived by feeling; they are usually discussed in five or six days without suppuration.

There is an other sort of Pustules, or Tu∣bercles, like little Bladders, incident to Men, Women and Children; which are with∣out Inflammation or redness; and also with∣out a Fever.

Some call them Cristals, others Blisters, but Country people call them Swine-pox, Hen or Chicken-pox, &c.

To these also may be referred, those red fiery spots which break out about the fourth or fifth day (in Malign Fevers) all over the Body; and if the sick recover, they vanish about the eighth day, after which the Cuti∣cula cometh away in flakes; this is common∣ly called the Scarlet Fever.

The signs of the Small-pox approaching, are pains of the Head, shining before the Eyes, with redness and swelling of the Face, and sometimes bleeding at the Nose; also a grievous pain of the Back, which reacheth to the Neck, with great heat and pricking all over the Body; there is often loathing of the Stomach, and vomiting, with trembling of the Heart, great terrour in sleep, difficulty of breathing, and sometimes raving and con∣vulsion.

The cause of the Small-pox and Measles, is an ill quality or impurity of the Mothers bloud, with which the Child was nourish'd in the Womb, which doth communicate pollution, and defile the mass of Bloud; and after the Child is born, when there is an ill disposition of the Air proportionable to the disease, there followeth a peculiar efferves∣cency or ebullition of the Bloud and other humours, by which nature is inraged and

provoked to cast forth the impurity.

The excrementitious matter is either thin or thick; if it be thin, the Measles fol∣low, if thick, the Small-pox are produced.

And if there be a Malignant constitution of the Air, it causeth not onely a purging forth of the corrupt matter of the Bloud, &c. but corrupteth the whole mass of Bloud, and so produceth a dangerous and Epidemi∣cal Small-pox.

If they come out red, and soon ripen or turn white, being round pointed, and out∣ward in the skin; if the voice and breathing be free, without any grievous symptoms, there is no danger, but if there be a great Fever (which is not abated after their erup∣tion) with great thirst, and difficulty of breathing, also black or bloudy Urine, or Stool, Hemorrhage at the Nose, Mouth, &c. doth signifie a great acrimony, and malig∣nancy of the bloud, that nature is compel∣led to evacuate it by such preposterous ways; and are most commonly mortal signs.

So likewise if it be long e'er they come out, and they be green, blewish, or black, and sink in again, the sick is in great dan∣ger of Death.

As for the Cure of these distempers, if they be Malignant, or Epidemical, let the same means be used as is prescrib'd in Malignant Fevers, but if there be little or no sign of

Malignancy, you may first administer an Antimonial Emetick, and after its operation, give this or the like Cordial.

Take the Waters of Carduus, Dragons, Treacle, Scordium compound, of each two ounces; Venice-treacle two drachms; Sy∣rups of the Juice of Limmons, Carduus, Saffron, of each one ounce; Confection of Hyacinth one drachm; mix it for a Cor∣dial.

Let the sick take two or three spoonfulls of this every half hour till a sweat be pro∣moted; after sweating, keep the Pati∣ent in a warm Room, till the danger be over.

Before the Eruption, (if there be eminent signs of a Plethora, and the sick be adult) Phlebotomy may be used with good suc∣cess.

Bezoar and Gascoign's Powder, and Diascor∣dium are commonly used in these Diseases.

You must endeavour to defend the in∣ward parts with the pectoral decoction, to which you may add a little Saffron.

Also a Saffron Stay, in which is put a few Sows (called Millepedes) bruised, is excel∣lent to defend the Throat.

For the Eyes, this water is good.

Take the Waters of Plantain, white Roses, of each three ounces; of Camphire, Saffron, of each ten grains; mix it.

Or you may use Womens milk, and Saf∣fron.

If the Throat and Mouth are inflamed, make a Gargarism with Plantain-water and Syrup of Mulberries.

To defend the Nose, put up this with a rag or feather.

Take of red Rose-water, Vinegar of red Roses, of each one ounce; Powder of red Saunders, Camphire, of each one drachm; mix it.

When the Small-pox begins to dry, anoint them often with Oil of sweet Almonds, and Oil of the Yelks of Eggs, which will pre∣vent their pitting.

Notes

• Asthma.
• Cause.
• Progn.
• Cure..
• Pectoral Iulep.
• Pleuritis.
• Signs.
• Peripn∣monia.
• Caus
• Progn
• Empiena. Cure.
• Cure.
• Sudorifick.
• Fomenta∣tion.
• Ointment.
• Plaster.
• Pultis.
• Balsam Sulphur.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉
• Compun∣ctio.
• Caution.
• Tabes.
• Causes.
• Signs.
• Progn.
• Febris Hectica.
• Signs.
• Liber 12. de marc. cap. 4.
• Causes.
• Progn.
• Cure.
• Powder.
• Cause.
• Progn.
• Cure.
• Iulep.
• Purging Pills.
• Purging Decoction.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Syncope.
• Signs.
• Causes.
• Progn.
• Cure.
• Decoction.
• Purging Pills.
• Purging Pills.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Diffe∣rence.
• Symp∣tomes.
• Causes.
• Lipiria febris.
• Cause.
• Hystory.
• Progn.
• Pars af∣fecta.
• Cure.
• Cautio.
• Purging Decoction.
• Volatile Powder.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Observa∣tion.
• Causes.
• The cause of the Re∣turn of the fit.
• Quotidian.
• Cure.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Purging Pills.
• Powder.
• Diffe∣rence.
• Calenture.
• Signs.
• Cause of Maligni∣ty.
• Signs.
• Prog••
• Cure.
• Cordial Sudorifick.
• Cause.
• Signs.
• Progn.
• Cure.
• Cordial Electuary.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Signs.
• Causes.
• Progn.
• Cure.
• Cordial Iulep.
• Phleboto∣my.
• Water for the Eyes.
• Gargaris.
• Nodulas.