A medicinal dispensatory, containing the whole body of physick discovering the natures, properties, and vertues of vegetables, minerals, & animals, the manner of compounding medicaments, and the way to administer them : methodically digested in five books of philosophical and pharmaceutical institutions, three books of physical materials galenical and chymical : together with a most perfect and absolute pharmacopoea or apothecaries shop : accommodated with three useful tables / composed by the illustrious Renodæus ... ; and now Englished and revised, by Richard Tomlinson of London, apothecary.

CHAP. 1. Of the House and Shop of an Apothecary.

AT the beginning and non-age of the world, Men used fruits for bread, and water for wine; and it is probable, both Horses and Beasts had the same aliment, (Hip. lib. de vet. Med.) but when the fruits which grew spontaneously, would not suffice for their nutrition and sanity, our fore-fathers made a bread, or rather a pultess, of Wheat macera∣ted, shelled, and bruised; whereupon the Romans lived a long time, after Ausonius. But their stomacks nauseating to be alwayes served with the same meat, and they not content with bread alone, begun at length to taste of Birds, and then to hunt after beasts and fishes. Their desires thus breaking out by little and little, invented culture, and a Thousand gulous provocations: whereas Ausonius saith, that before that time, the Acorn was mans and beasts common meat, and a trees shade their common house.

For in that first age, caves were their houses, the tectures of wood their cottages, rocks and saxous places their Cities: and a long time after, the Dardanians made them sordid houses in mud, the Balearians in hollowed rocks; as many Indians at this day in Oysters and Tortoises shells; and others weave themselves houses of reeds and fenny herbs, (Alex. ab Alex. C. 24. Li. 5.)

But as mens manners are now more polite, their dishes more dainty; so are their houses more artificially structed: some build∣ing themselves edifices in the middle of 〈…〉〈…〉; others on the top of a hill; others at the Sea side; as each mans fancy leads him.

But an Apothecaries house, should be built in none of these pla∣ces; but rather in a City, then in a Town; in an apprique and lucid place, rather then in an opaque and umbrous; and in a nited street, rather then in one inquinated with filth and putretude.

It must be ample, and high, that such simples as should be kept drie, may be reposed in its highest room; and such as should be moist, in its cellar.

There should be many, at least one cubicle betwixt these two, to which the Apothecary may betake himself; under which he must have an ample, quadrate, and lucid Shop: yet neither so much ex∣posed to the Sun, as it may califie, melt, or too much drie his Medi∣caments; nor so much to the wind, as to molest them.

In it there should be two doors; the one an outward door towards the street, the other postical or inward, into his kitchin, or inner chamber; wherein he may not only eat his victuals, but prudently ob∣serve through some lattice-window, what is done in the Shop, what given, and what received; and so mind his Apprentices, whether

they spend their time idlely, faithfully and accurately execute their office, or do all for his good, and effect his work.

In the other angle of the kitchin, near the Chimney, must be an Aestuary or Hypocauste, wherein he may repose his Sugar-junkets and solid confections more safely: and if the place be large enough, there may in the next place be made a Tabern, wherein he may re∣cond many seeds, fruits, and other simples, which he buyes in great quantity; as Prunes, Almonds, Honey, Seeds, Roots, and much of Woods.

In his Shop he must repose onely compounds, and such simples as are either rare and precious, or are of diuturnal and frequent use; as Tamarinds, Raisins, Liquorice, Polypody, Senny, &c.

And that his Medicaments may be duely disposed in his Pharma∣copoly, many shelves must be classically collocated therein, from the bottome upwards, upon wooden and iron nails fastened in the walls, and the partition betwixt the kitchin and the Shop, so that some of their rowes may include lesser, some greater boxes; some, Earthen∣pots; some, Glasses; some, Tinne-vessels; and some, Wood∣vessels: so diligently and discreetly collocated, that those that are of more frequent use, may not be in the same row with those that are more rarely exhibited; but that the one sort may be neerer at hand, and the other remote.

The names also of the Medicaments, must be inscribed upon every vessel, and bag, wherein they are included; that the Medicament to be exhibited, may soon be seen, and not mistaken for another.

CHAP. 2. Of Instr••••ents necessary for the Shop.

THe Shops supellectuals, all which are either useful, or necessary, are almost innumerable: Those are useful, but more profitable, which are more expetible for their ornament, and greater splen∣dour, then their inservience; as many Silver vessels, which take much with the vulgar; and the Apothecaries may by this external shew, acquire that glory, which by their learning and skill they can∣not reach; and they are blamed by Hippocrates, who think this curious stuffe either odious or illiberal.

That same supellex is necessary, which serves either to repose Me∣dicaments in, as many: Earthen, Glassy, Argenteous, Stanneous, Plumbeous, Cupreous, and Brasen-vessels; for Syrupes, Sapes, Eclegms, Electuaries, Powders, Oyles, Salves, and Unguents: of which hereafter: or to prepare them; as, Marbles, Morters, Pe∣stels, of Wood, Stone, and Metals; Rudicles, Pots, Kettles, Basons, Dishes, Pottengers, Frying-pans, Frixories, Polishers, Files, Sieves, Stainers, Presses, Gauntlers, Weights, Tongs, Knives, Marble ra∣bles, manifold Alembicks, Refrigerative Chanels, called Scrpen∣tine

Lakes, in Fundibles, and many more, which it may be the Apo∣thecary will not use once in a year.

Chymists have yet besides these, some peculiar supellectils, which a witty fellow calls, The Instruments of Fallacy, and not of Pharma∣cy: but this I would speak of their abuse, and not of their use.

The appellation and form of many Pharmaceutrical instruments, are sooner known then their special uses; for every one knows Saws, Files, Hammers and Knives; but the Apothecaries use for these, is to scrape Boars-teeth, Ivory, Guaiacum; to attenuate them into dust, and levigate all such things, as cannot by attrition be pulve∣rated: but other artificers use them in the works of their Arts; as the Goldsmith, in making Rings, Bracelets, and vessels of Gold or Silver; the Blacksmith in making Nails; and all use Hammers, Anvils, and Tongs, to their peculiar works.

The Knives necessary for Pharmacopolies, must not be of one sort onely, but some greater then others, some oblong, others short, and others otherwise formed. The long and mucronated Knives, are much in use to scrape and purge roots; to divide and cleave the minute-boughs of wood, and caulicles of herbs: the shorter, which are not acuminated, but obtuse, whose backs are very crass, serve to cut Sugar into lumps; some whereof are very short, but broad, of a Lunar shape, like those wherewith Shoemakers cut their hides; wherewith some oleaginous seeds, and condited barks, which cannot be pulverated by a Pestel, may be cut small.

They serve also to divide Liquorice into small pieces, that it may ingrede the confection of common junkets.

There is also another Knife longer then the rest, whose point is reflected like a hook, which fastened upon another hook set in the table, will with much ease divide Wood 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Roots, while its haft is pressed.

Yet all these varieties of Knives are not absolutely necessary in each Shop; for the same Knife which in the Kitchin cuts bread, may in the Shop divide Wax, and scrape Roots.

CHAP. 3. Of Morters and Pestels.

NO one Instrument is either so necessary, or so frequently used in a Pharmacopoly, as a Morter: for nothing almost can either be made up, or brought to that pass, without the help of the Morter. For seeing all Medicinal materials are ordinarily rude, and indi∣g••sted, and nothing almost exhibited, as it comes out of the bosome of our Grandmother Nature; most things must by triture be divi∣ded, agitated, levigated, and subacted into composition, in a Mor∣ter.

And seeing that matter is multifarious, and requires various pre∣parations, not onely from the industry of the Apothecary, but the

adjument of the Instruments; wherein it acquires not onely a con∣venient form, and a due magnitude, but a fit matter, from which the Medicament may mutuate something: and therefore Piles or Morters are made of various Materials; as of Marble, Achates, Alabaster, or other stone; and of Tinne, Lead, Iron, Brass, Cop∣per; as also of Glass, and Ivory; and of Silver and Gold, more for ostentation, then pure necessity.

One of Lead, or Glass, or Stone, is enough; but many of Brass, one whereof must be very ample, for such things as are hard or large; another small, for Musk, Amber, Civet, Bezaar-stone, and such Aromaticks.

Betwixt both, many of several magnitudes; some whereof may serve for Potions, others for Glysters or Electuaries.

They must have as many Pestels as Morters, made also of the like matter; for a plumbeous Pestel best fits a plumbeous Morter; a brasen one, a brasen Morter; but an Iron Pestel fits all Metals, and a wooden Pestel all stony Morters, and all such as new herbs are brayed in. When dry things must be pulverated, the Morter must be covered with Paper or Leather, lest the small Powder fly out and perish, or trouble the brayers nose and eyes.

Marble tables and Purple stones are also requisite for the smaller levigation of some things; as Margarites and Precious stones, which may be levigated very small, with a little Rose-water, or other li∣quor, for the Medicks scope.

CHAP. 4. Of Spatula••s and Spoone.

SPatulaes and 〈…〉〈…〉 as it were the Apothecaries second hands, wherewith he agitates Medicaments, while they are tunded in Morters, or cocted in Dishes, that the pulveration and coction of each part may be equal; and with these he records the Medicaments in idoneous vessels, and with these takes them out for uses. Now Spatulaes are broad at one end, like the blade of a bone, which the Barbarians call Spatulae.

The figure of these Spatulaes is all one, to wit, triangular and oblong, but their matter diverse; for some are made of Silver, as those little ones which Chirurgeous use; others of Wood, as th•••• rudicle, wherewith they agitate the palmeous Emplaister while it is cocting, which is made of a Palm-bough; others of Iron, as almost all the rest, whether great or small, wherewith Apothe••••∣ries work their soft Medicaments, as Honey, Winter-oyl, liquid Electuaries, and the like confections.

The Shon spoons are made of Iron and Copper; the Table sp••ons of Silver, and of Wood for the Rustick and poorer people; 〈…〉〈…〉 make little ones of Ivory and Horn, which serve for measuring 〈…〉〈…〉 and put••ing them into the scales. Many also of these

materials are used in Kitchins, to despumate decoctions: Wood and Silver Spoons are also used in Shops, but not Glass ones, be∣cause they are so easily frangible; nor Iron ones, because they con∣tract rust, as Brasen ones also: but they may use any of them, so the servants have a care to keep them clean, and absterge them as soon as they are inquinated.

CHAP. 5. Of their Caldrons, and other Metalline Vessels.

MAny take Ahenum and Cacabum for the same; but in proper locution, Ahenum is a brasen vessel, profund and operculated, with a handle on the one side, whereby it may be holden in ones hand, and shut at ones pleasure: it serves especially for elixating of water in, which must either be drunk alone, or mixed with some Wine.

Rich men for sanity, or rather vanities sake, have such vessels of Silver, that the cocted water may not smell of Copper.

A Dish is another brasen vessel, much broader and larger, where∣in Simples are cocted, Compounds made, and Fruits condited: it hath two ears or handles, on each side one, that it may be set on, or taken off the fire more easily: it is set on the fire upon a three∣footed Iron Instrument, with hot coals under it, that the liquor therein contained may boil.

A Pottenger is another aeneous, small, but patulous vessel; where∣unto a long start, and a ferreous handle is suffixed, that it may be more commodiously set on the fire, and holden in either hand.

Such Medicaments as are given in small quantity, are cocted here∣in; as one dosis of a Medicament, a small Electuary, a Rosaceous Julip, and the like.

A Frying-pan is another kinde of dish, very patulous, with a long start, which they use in Kitchins to fry flesh, in shops to fry seeds in; as Coriander with Vinegar, to castigate some quality in it, Millet-seed with Wine, or some other liquor, fit for some part.

A Caldron is another brasen vessel, which suspended on a Chim∣ney-hook, hangs over the fire, that whatsoever is contained in its cavity may be cocted. But seeing this, and more of the vessels are culinary ones, I shall not need to stand any longer upon their de∣scription; especially seeing the Apothecary knows them well, who uses them often to prepare the decoctions of Simples, and to the preparation of Syrupes, Unguents, and other Confections.

CHAP. 6. Of Torculars and Presses.

PHarmacopolists have also their little Torculars, wherewith they express succes and oyls by pressure; and this sort of Press is made of two short pieces of wood, alike in form and magnitude; each whereof have two holes so cunningly excavated, that within they seem to be two carved circles, not recurring one against ano∣ther; wherein two iron Rods are introduced, which by turning extrinsecally, abduce the beams, and open the Press; but by pry∣ing intrinsecally, adduce and shut it, pressing the interposed matter, and expressing its watry or oleous succe.

There should be two Presses in each Pharmacopoly; one to ex∣press aqueous succes out of green fruits and herbs; and another, ole∣ous out of Olives.

Such things as are to be pressed, should by coction or triture be prepared for the press: by coction, thus; flesh must be prepared, whose expressed succe is given to such as are tabid and lean, by long diseases: by triture, as some oleaginous Woods, Fruits, and Seeds: which last, lest they should leap and flie away, must be included in a bag, or a strong cloth, that they may be better compressed, and the tenuious substance more easily separated from the crass one. Thus Oyle of Almonds is educed; thus the juyce of Lentisks, Dates, Nuts, Line-seed, and the like, is expressed, as we shall hereafter shew.

CHAP. 7. Of Sieves and Incernicles.

PHarmacopolists have now got a custom, to call those Instru∣ments which separate the purer portion of the Medicament from the crasser, Sieves: but this rustick enunciation is too licenti∣ous and abusive; since rusticks Sieves, not Apothecaries Instruments, are made of skins perviated with many, but small holes, to purge Corn with.

There are also other Sieves made of Horses hairs, intertexed like a web, to segregate the Bran from flower; which Aromataries some∣times use in dividing their Powders, and purging their Prunes, and Cassia-Fistula, from their stones and seed, which by them are called seraceous subcirnicles, and sometimes excussive incernicles, because agitated betwixt their hands they excuss the small Powder. They are sometimes made of Wood, as when Teile-bark is discerpted in∣to long and small fibres, and lattice-wise connexed, for the cribra∣tion of crasser Powders.

There are many common Sieves, but one peculiar to Aromataries; which being contexed with more artifice, they call Tamis: it is

sometimes made of Horses hair, often of fine linen, and oftest of silk, operculated above and below with a Rams skin upon a bend∣ing VVood, that the Powder received in the one casket, may by cribration pass into the other, without any loss by prosili∣tion.

Some of these are less then others, which are more idoneous, for suparating precious Powders, which are onely softly holden in ones hard, and the Powder delabes without violence; others do not transmit the tenuious Powder without much percussion.

There is yet another kinde of sieve, in form of a great box, much in use; in whose middle a certain web is intended, through which the Powders superimposed, fall into the inferiour part of the box: The trajection of the Powder will be more easie and quick, if a Tinne or Silver weight be superposed together with the Powder, that by its motion and gravity may impel the excussive sieve against some solid body.

All sieves and incernicles serving to segregate dry things, must be moved, agitated, and impelled; but for moist things, they must re∣main quiet and immote; yet the trajection of the things to be se∣parated, may be helped by a Spoon or Manipulus; as the pulpes of Tamarinds, Cassia, or Prunes; as also Roots and herbs first cocted to putrelage, then transmitted by this adjument, for the confection of Cataplasms.

CHAP. 8. Of Colatories or Strainers.

NEither can Pharmacopolies be without colatories of silk, linen, Canvas, and Woolen; some whereof are rare, others dense, and others indifferent; and some again, are new, others almost worn; and yet the newest are most used, because the whole succe of the thing to be strained, may by more valid compressure be educed, without the fracture of the cloath.

But sometimes these, sometimes the weaker are taken, according to the consistency of the succes: those that are of themselves tenuious, need a denser strainer, lest the tenuious part be not onely transmitted, but some gross matter with it. Those that are crass and viscid, must he trajected through a rare strainer; those of a middle consistency, through a cloth of a middle density.

Crass and viscid succes require three things; strong percolation, more ample dilution, and a rarer colatory or strainer: they must also be calified before collation; for so their density will be more rarified, and they more easily transmeate; yea, many will not percolate at all, unless they be very hot, others when cold, and some onely warm: some need onely one colature, others two, and others more; the first colature must be in a rare strainer, the second in a dense one, and the third in a more compact one, that passage may be obstructed to

all filth: those that are of a liquid consistency, if they be to be pur∣colated twice or thrice, it may be done in the same strainer.

There are certain VVoolen Strainers, of a long and pyramidall figure, numerated amongst these colatories, which they call Hippo∣crates his sleeves, wherein the Hippocratical VVine is twice or thrice strained, till it be clear. These serve also for straining Meli∣cras, congealing salves, and many decoctions, that all extraneous matters may be separated from them, and they remain sincere, as we have shewed in our Institutions.

CHAP. 9. Of Furnaces.

SOme Furnaces serve onely for decoctions, and receive Kettles, Dishes, Caldrons, and other vessels; wherein simples are coct∣ed, prepared and compounded: others for distillations, and receive Cucurbites, Retorts, Bladders, Pots, and other vessels, accommoda∣ted to Distillations; made either by Ascent, or Descent.

Those that serve for decocting Medicaments, are not of one sort; for some are portatile and rotund, made of molten or beaten Iron; which as their inferiour parts stand upon three valid legs, so doth their superiour emit three oblong auricles, more prominent then the Furnaces lips, whereon the Vessels to be calified are superimpo∣sed.

Their supream part is patulous, like some gaping Morter; into which coals are immitted; a Gridiron, or ferreous trabicles, being supposited, which may give way to the falling ashes, which are after∣wards extracted out of the posternal door, structed for that purpose: others are made of Clay, and Bricks; which are almost quad••ate, fixed, and immoveable, standing upon no feet, but within like the other.

Those which serve for distillations, whether we look at the matter whereof, or form wherein, they are made, are multifarious; for some are made of Iron, others of Copper, others of Potters earth, others of common clay, Bricks, and other businesses requisite to structure; furthermore, some are round, as the Metalline Furnaces, which have ears on both sides, that they may be carried by others; Quadrilaterous, Pentagonous, Multifarious, fixed, and immoveable; wherein three Prothecaries are made; the Inferiour, the Superiour, and the Middle.

The inferiour receives the ashes, and is thence called the Cirerist, or by the usual Chymical term, Conistery; whereinto a door opens, by which the burning coals are ventilated by the wind, the Pabulum sup∣peditated to the fire, and the ashes extracted: the middle Region of the Furnace, wherein the fire is, which is divided from the Conistery by a certain craticle, is called Focus by the latter age; for in it is the fomentation of the calour, which califies the superimposed, in the su∣periour

Chamber of the Furnace; which is variously formed, ac∣cording to the various magnitude and figure of the vessel imposed near that part where the Funary tube is, are certain previations for the smoak to evade by. But we have tradited the most usual descri∣ption of a Furnace, in our Institutions: (C. 31. Book 2.)

And as structure of the distillative Furnaces is various, so is it in many elegant: for some are built like a Tower, like a Tortoise, and Simple, which onely contain one vessel; others are structed with very much artifice, and are manifold, assurging with five or more ••••ricles, each one whereof contains a peculiar vessel; thus one ves∣sel may be full of hot water, to distil by a bath; another of ashes; another of sand; another of another matter, according to the va∣rious scope of the Operator: but I would have a Pharmacopoly fil∣led with thus many Furnaces, seeing it is made for Medicaments, ra∣ther then Instruments.

CHAP. 10. Of Alembicks and Cucurbites.

AN Alembick in its larger acception, complects Cucurbites, Re∣torts, Glass-pots, and a certain Instrument of Copper, with three feet and three partitions; in the lowest wherof ashes have their place; in the middle burning coals; and in the highest a vessel co∣vered with a rostrated capitel, in form of a Cone, and sometimes round, with a refrigeratory, formed like a small cup, that it may hold more water; which when it is hot, may be effunded through a cock; posited in its decline, and other cold water affunded into it again.

But its more angust signification, denotes onely a certain beaked distillatory vessel, joyned to another vessel, contained in the superiour part of the furnace; and such are our Alembicks, of Lead, Glass, or Potters-clay, whether uniform, or acuminated above, broad below, like a bell, whence they are so called: yet some are capitated and round, and often obvallated with a certain refrigerative vessel, which they sometimes call a Capitel, sometimes a Hat; because as the Head is covered with a Hat, so is that receptacle or vessel, which contains the stillatitious matter; whose various form alters its denomination, covered with an Alembick. It is sometimes call'd a Cucurbite; some∣times a Bladder; sometimes Boccia, Matratium, a Pot, and other names.

But the Bell, whether it be alone, or set on the receptacle, is called an Alembick; whereof there are two main differences, the one is beaked, which emits a long channel, propendent like the snout of an Ele∣phant, through which condensed vapours delabe into the supposited vessel; the other wants this tube, and is called a blind Alembick: this is proper to the Chymists, who use it in sublimation, as the beaked one in distillation: some of these have such a long tube, that

they can traject it through the middle of a hogs-head, full of cold water; which concretes, and contemperates the delabing water better.

Many have a beak deflected like a Serpent or Worm, which name it holds; and is most accommodate to distil Aqua vitae, which the Chymists call Elixir vitae.

The magnitude also, and figure of the receptacles, are various; for some are very ample, and bellied; others so small, that they exceed not the magnitude of a Walnut; and these are destinated to Chymical operations: others are moderate in capacity, some whereof are straight, as Vials, Urinals, Pots, Cucurbites, whether greater or less, and Separatories; others inflicted, as Retorts, a crooked Boccia, called Cornumuse.

Those things are distilled in straight Cucurbites, which are easily sublevated on high; as Roots, Seeds, Leaves, Flowers, and Ato∣mata's; those in oblique ones, which are not so easily elevated, as Rosins, Lachrymae, Fats and Gums.

CHAP. 11. Of Tables and Counters necessary in Pharmacopolies.

NO Housholdstuff so small, no cottage so mean, but it contains a Table, or some thing to eat at, and use; for the Table doth not alwayes serve for meat, but many more works; as in a Pharma∣copoly, to receive simples while they be selected, separated, prepa∣red, measured, orderly disposed, and put into composition.

Therefore when some solemn and great composition is to be made, as the Treacle, Mithridate, Aurea Alexandria, or the like, the Apothecary must make use of a long Table, not in the shop, but in some more retired cubicle, where he may more liberally select, accurately ponderate, safely keep, and exactly mix and compound his Medicaments.

And a Money-Counter, or two, must needs be had, in every Phar∣macopoly; for all that are bought, or sold almost, are laid there∣upon; this receives all that are measured, trutinated, brayed in small Morters divided with Knives, or integrally exhibited.

Its form should be quadrilateral, and it should have many ex∣emptile boxes in its antick part, which might hold many seeds, and keep other necessaries: in the other side, next the seat where the Apothecary sits, should be some larger boxes locked up, wherein some precious Medicaments may be contained.

On the top there should be a chink, or scissure, whereinto the Money received, and gained, must be dimitted.

Over the counter there should hang a certain Instrument, fastened to the beams with nails, not unlike a I inverted; in the inseriour part whereof, wooden or iron nails should be fastened, whereon Scales of diverse magnitudes, Tongs, Spatula's, and other instru∣ments

should be suspended, which being at hand, might not be to seek.

Besides the wooden ones, they should have some Tables of Mar∣ble or Purple-stone, with a Brayer of the same matter, wherewith Precious-stones may be levigated.

They must have also a straight Log, which for ornament may be engraven with soeveral images, to under-set their greatest Morter.

CHAP. 12. Of little Chests, Boxes, and other officinary Vessels.

ALl the vessels in a Pharmacopoly, serve either for preparation of Medicaments, whereof I have already treated; or for their reposition, of which now: and they are Bottles, Pots for Oyntments, Pots, Capruncles, Pitchers, Chests, and Boxes.

Bottles are well known, and they are either of Glass or Clay, serving for the repositure of distilled waters, which should occupy the lowest part of the Pharmacopoly; these waters being heavier, and in greater quantity then other Medicaments: and when frost comes, these Bottles should be reposed in a cellar, that their waters may not be concreted, till the rigour of the cold be over.

Oyl-pots, which serve for keeping Oyls, are sometimes of Potters clay; but more frequently of Tinne, and obduced with a cover, that they may be operculated or opened with speed: Oyls educed by infusion, should be reposed herein.

There are great store of Pots in a Pharmacopoly; the greatest part whereof are of Tinne, some of Earth, and a few of Lead: Unguents are kept and reposed herein.

Capruncles are all of Potters-clay, white and smooth within, with a handle on one side, a tube on the other, through which the liquor may be effunded; and a very patulous orifice above, that the liquor may more easily be affunded: they are adorned with va∣rious colours and shapes: Syrupes are reposed herein.

Besides these vessels, there should be small ones, like little Pitchers, of Glass or Clay, wherein cordial Powders may be kept; and they have a peculiar place, adorned with more artifice, to stand in.

There should be also other small vessels of Tinne, wherein several Masses for Pills are reconded; each one in a peculiar skin wrap∣ped.

There must be also certain ligneous vessels, for the reposition of Medicaments; as Baskets, Chests, and Boxes. Baskets are con∣texed of vimineous boughs or rushes, wherein many fruits are re∣posed: and they are ordinarily set in the posterior tabern, or other angle of the shop; but if they be small ones, they may be suspended in the shop.

Chests are quadrilateral, consisting of five short boards arti∣ficially conjoyned, besides a lid; wherein Barks, Wood, Mushromes,

Flowers, Tables, Bones, Horns, Cleyes, and the dry parts of Ani∣mals are reposed.

Boxes are round and profund; either made with a throwe, or com∣posed of a thin broad chip, brought to a round form; wherein dry succes, Lachrymae, Gummes, Minerals, and some dry Roots, are reposed.

The fore-part of Boxes and Chests which stand before the shops∣door, should be adorned with certain Pictures; onely a space should be left, wherein the Name of the contained might be inscribed in golden or other letters.

Dry Plants are kept sometimes in Chests, sometimes in Bags; as also many small roots; great roots are trajected on a thread suspen∣ded, and so dryed and kept.

Thus I think I have briefly described all the Officinary supelle∣ctils; which if any, because of the tenuity of his fortune, cannot purchase all, he must get the more necessary.

CHAP. 13. Of the Conservation of whole or parts of Simples in a Pharmacopoly.

THe number of Simples which a Pharmacopolist stands in need of, is indefinitive: for seeing all things sown or produced, all things on which man conculcates, or which he can handle, are di∣rigible to his subsidy; He that would in a short Catalogue com∣plect all Medicinal Materials, undertakes no less, then he that would depinge in a very small Table, the vastity of the Universe. Nic. Praepositus indeed, in the beginning of his Antidotary, in many Cha∣pters recenseates many Simples, wherewith the Apothecary should be furnished: but without doubt he hath not mentioned the hun∣dredth part of all that serve to Medicinal uses: for every land brings not forth every Medicament; but that which Nic. knew, some; this that he never saw, others whereof he never made tryal nor heard: out of India, and other Foraign Countreys, some Simples are brought, never before seen, nor known to us, and that daily.

And however, though to recenseate all Simples, and describe the name and form of such as are of diuturnal use, be burthensome and superfluous, seeing special Physicians undertaking this task, have not so satisfied the mindes of young men, but many of them will say, That they have either forgotten many, or spoken of many super∣fluously: But let such Sycophants with-hold, whom Jupiter him∣self cannot please: we will prosecute our purpose, and recenseate the chief Simples which should be conserved in Pharmacopolies.

And these Simples of use, are either green or dry; the green are partly suppeditated by the vicine Countrey, partly by Gardens; which may be depromed from each, when need requires; as Hor∣tensian Plants from Gardens, and Sylvestrian from Woods, and

other rural and incultivated places. Wherefore it were needless to deduce all green Plants, whereof the Apothecary hath diuturnal use, into his Pharmacopoly, and so superfluous for him to be fur∣nished and surrounded with these; when it is enough for him to have a few of them at opportune seasons, when exigence re∣quires.

For a heap of green Simples, by long asservation, putrefie, and both their quality and quantity are worsted. Therefore the Apo∣thecaries act prudently, who collect or buy green herbs onely for a half or a whole week; for it were folly for a man to onerate his shop with Mallows, Violets, Mercury, Brankurfine, Pelletory of the wall, Fumatory, Endive, Sowthistle, Purslane, Borrage, Hen∣bane, and innumerable such others, which are used onely green, and collected in small quantity. Wherefore it were ridiculous to in∣clude these in bags, or repose them in boxes, when he may easily, when exigence calls for them, deprome them out of gardens or countrey; or if their feason be past, by the Physicians advice sub∣stitute some other.

Dry ones therefore are onely necessary to be kept; as of Roots, the five apertives, and many other alteratives and purgatives; as the Roots of Cypres, Angelica, Enula-campana, Grass, Liquorice, the greater Madder, Tormentil, Bistort, Oinone, Gentian, Poeony, Orris-grass, Acorus, Galingal, Ginger, Sweet-cane, both Berth∣worts, Asarum, Sowbread, Bartram, Dittany, Avens, both the Ferns, Water-betony, Sea-Holly, Ragwort, Bugloss, Sorrel, Chyna, Sarsaparilla, Marshmallows, the sea-Onyon, Garlick, the greater Comfrey, Bryony, Mechoacam, Turbith, Polypody, Rhaponticum, Meadow-saffron, Rhabarb, VValwort, both the Hellebores, and others less usual; besides those that are usurped green.

Of cauls and leaves, these are especially to be preserved: both the VVormwoods, Mint, Balsamite, Southernwood, Germander, Groundpine, Hyssop, Calamint, Nep, Horehound, Peny-royal, Wintersavery, Thyme, Origanum, Dill, Rue, Lavender, Marjo∣ran, Basil, mother of Thyme, Clary, Scordium, Chamomile, Me∣lilot, Centory, Cetrach, Dittany, Dodder, S. Johns-wort, Knot∣grass, Betony, Balm, Rosemary, Travellers-joy, Fluellen, Vervine, Marshmallows, yellow Henbane, Mullen, Stoechas, Tamarisk, Mo∣ther-wort, Polium, Senna, Laureol, and Bayes.

Some Flowers also must be kept, because their faculties soon pe∣rish, but especially the three cordial Flowers, and also the Flowers of Roses, Pomegranates, Sage, Rosemary, Violets, Chamomile, Melilot, Broom, Orange, VValflowers, Jasmine, Gilliflowers, Be∣tony, S. Johns-wort, VVater-lillies, and Saffron.

Seeds necessary to be kept, are the four greater Refrigeratives, the four lesser Refrigeratives, and the seed of Marshmallows, Arach, Radish, Barberies, Plantain, Quinces, Fleabit, Line, Foenugreek, Cumin, Dill, Aniseed, Fennel, Coriander, Agnus Castus, Ladies Rose, Burdock, Bastard-saffron, Dwarf, Elder, Petroseline, Smal∣lage,

Ruscus, Asparagrasos, Gromwel-gith, Poppy, Basil, Purslain, Carret, Angelico, Mustard, Brooklime, Treacle, mustard, Hartwort of Candy, Lovage, Rocket, VVinter-cherry, Bayes, Ground-Ivy, Juniper, Cardamomes, and all the Peppers, with many more.

Many Fruits also must be kept in Pharmacopolies; as, both sweet and bitter Almonds, all sorts of Nuts, Oranges, Citrons, odoriferous Apples, Russetins, Coloquintido, Sorb-apples, the fruit of the Cornel-tree, Prunes, Dates, Mulberries, Figs, Quin∣ces, Jujubees, Galls, Olives, Capers, Cypress-Nuts, Acorns, Tamarinds, Myrobalans, Cherries, * 1.1 the Beans of Malaca, &c.

Barks and Cores are either pilled off the Roots of Plants, as the bark of the Root of the Capers shrub, or of the trunk of Plants, as Cinamon; or of their Fruits, as of Oranges, Lem∣mons, Pomegranates, and the like: few whereof need be preser∣ved, because when exigence calls for them, they may be taken of the Fruits and Roots.

Many Gummes are necessary; as Ammoniacum, Galbanum, Sagapenum, Bdellium, Opoponax, Assa-foetida, Rosin, clarified Ro∣sin, Tragacanth, Storax, Gumme-Elemni, Cedri, of the Cherry∣tree, Ivy, Prune, Juniper, Arabick, Mastick, Gumme-Lacc. Myrrhe, and Frankincense, with many more.

Other succes are kept, either liquid, and in bottles, with a little Oyl above them, as the juyce of Lemmons, Gooseberries, and Bar∣berries; or dryed, as Liquorice-juyce, as Opium, Acacia, Elateri∣um, Aloes, and Scammony.

More distilled VVaters also must be preserved then Nic. recen∣seates: for, who can enumerate, how many and how various, both Simples, and compound VVaters, are now distilled in shops, not onely out of Plants, but also out of integral Animals, or their parts?

But the use of cordial Waters is most frequent, and celebrated, as of the Waters of Scabiose, Devils-bit, Goats-beard, Bugloss, Borrage, Roses, Marigolds, Woodsorrel, Scordium: and of cool∣ing Waters, these; Endive, Succory, Water-lilly, Purslain, Plan∣tain, Nightshade, Lettice, and many other waters, which respect the Head, Lungs, or other parts of the Body; as of Betony, Balm, Eyebright, Fluellen, Coltsfoot, Liverwort, Egrimony, Ground∣pine, Tamaris, Pimpinel, Radish, Saxifrage, Pellitory, Hysop, Mugwort, &c.

CHAP. 14. Of Minerals and Metals to be kept in Pharmacopolies.

THey erre equally, who ablegate all Minerals from the number of Medicament, and who usurpe them onely in expugning disea∣ses: for, as they doe not conduce in all diseases; so it is certain, that they profit in some cases: for Minerals afford us every kinde of Medicament, to wit, Alterative, Roborative, Cathartical: Chalk, Litharge, and Vitriol, alterate; the Hyacinth, Terra-Lemnia, and Emerald, roborate; Lapis-Cyaneus, Stibium, and Mercury, purge. The effect also, besides the Testimony of perite men, shews, that there are eximious faculties in Metals; for Gold beaten into thin leaves, and taken with other idoneous Medicaments, cures many affections: Avicenna prescribes it chiefly to such as are Melancholical, and to such as should have their faculties roborated, or spirits exhilarated; and hence its dust is exhibited by the rich∣er, either in cordial confections, which receive of its leaves, as Au∣rea Alexandrina, the confection of Alkermes, and Electuarium de Gem∣mis.

Gold is Chieftain amongst Metals, next Silver, then Brass, Tinne, Lead, and Iron: some adde a seventh, to wit, Mercury, which is a Metal rather potentially, then actually; but there are almost innume∣rable Minerals, as all the sorts of earths, amongst which Lemnia holds the chief seat; then, Bole-Oriental, then Erethrian, Setenusian, Samian, and Synopical earth, with Ocre, and such Minerals as are effoded out of the bowels of the Earth; as fossile Salts, Lime, Talkum, Misy, Sory, Red-Lead, Chalk, Vitriol, Chrysocolla, Auri∣pigmentum, Alom, Sulphur, Chrystal, Stibium; and such as cleave to Metals, or are collected out of Furnaces wherein Metals are melt∣ed, as the flower of Brass, Cadmia, Ceruse, Brass-Scales, Lead-Ocre, Pompholix, Spodium, Litharge, and the dross of Brass.

Many stones also are much celebrated amongst Minerals, which for their eximious vertues, and pulchritude, are called precious stones; as the Saphyr, Ruby, Carbuncle, Emerald, Hyacinth, Granatus, Topaz, Beril, Achates, Sarda, Carchedony, Haematites, Jasper, Selenite, Magner, Pumic, and Alome: whereunto we may adde those those that are elicited out of the Sea and waters; as odorate Amber, Sea-Salt, Whales-spume, Bitumen, Coral, Am∣ber, Jeat, Antal, Dental, Coralin, Spunges, and some others, which being indued with a more imbecile faculty in Medicine, are omitted.

CHAP. 15. Of Animals, or parts thereof, which are to be kept in Pharmacopolies.

ANimals both nourish us while well, ture us while sick, and vest us always; or by some other means, whether they be living, or intemperate, tend to our emolument: as when we use them wholly, or some part or excrement of them, to the curation of our diseases, nutrication of our bodies, or instauration of our strength: for Musk and Givet, though excrements, wonderfully roborate the heart and spirits.

Insects are integrally usurped, such as be Spanish-Flyes, Asels, Worms, Lizards, Ants, Vipers, Scorpions, Frogs, Crabs, Swallows, and some littles Birds.

The Medicinal parts of Animals are many, as a mans scull unburi∣ed, a Harts heart-bone, Sparrows and Hares brains, Boars and Ele∣phants teeth, Frogs hearts, Foxes Lungs, Goats Livers, Wolves intestines, Beavers and Cocks testicles, Hogs bladders, Harts ge∣nitals, Serpents skins; Mans, Hogs, Gooses, Sheeps, Ducks, Badgers, Conies, Goats, Snakes, and Land-Snakes fat; Harts, Calves, and Goats marrow; Mans, Stock-Doves, and Goats blood; all Milk, and all that comes of it, as Whey, Cheese, and Butter; Hens, Partridges, and Ants eggs; Honey, Wax, Pro∣polis; Harts, Does, and Unicorns horns; Elkes, Oxes, and Goats Cleyes; Oysters, Margarites, and many fishes shells.

And seeing excrements have their Medicinal vertues, Pharmaco∣polists must also have them in keeping; as Goats, Dogs, Storks, Peacocks, and Stock-Doves dung; Sheeps grease, Silk, Musk, Civet, and the hairs of some Animals.

And that I may briefly complect all, all the simple Medicaments we have described in our three Books of Medicinal matter, are ne∣cessary for a Pharmacopolist.

CHAP. 35. Of Compound Medicaments, to be kept in Pharmacopolies.

VVHen the Pharmaceutrical Art was not yet reducted to an Art, nor any Medicaments, save a few, described or digested into order; then, what compounds should be retained, and what rejected, was not determinable.

Nicolaus Praepositus indeed described many Medicaments; some whereof he himself disapproves of, others he transcribed not faith∣fully, and others he depraved, by changing something in them: so that from his writings, we cannot conjecture what to keep, or what not.

Nic. Alexandrinus heaps up such a mole of Medicaments, that they would rather puzzle, then help an Apothecary.

Actuarius also, Aetius, and Oribasius, describe many; which con∣sisting of unknown, and rare Simples, are found either inept, or neglected, as indued with no eximious qualities.

Amongst the latter Writers, Ferneleus, Sylvius, and Rondeletius, have diligently examined the Medicaments invented by the Anci∣ents, and have rejected some as inconcinnate, others they have proved, illustrated, and commended, as invented by riper Judge∣ments, and indued with Nobler faculties.

I have diligently selected the most excellent from learned men, and the most approved from old and expert men; and of them extracted my Pharmaceutrical shop, or Antidotary, orderly composed into six books; wherein all the approved troop of Alterative, Purgative, and Roborative Medicaments, are described; which being used either by intrinsecal assumption, or extrinsecal adhibition, I have exhibited those to be introsumed, if Alteratives, in form either of syrupes, or sapes, or conserves, or eclegms; if Purgatives, either in the form of a liquid Electuary, or a solid one, or Trochisks, or Pills; if Roboratives, either in form of a powder, or an opiate confection, or of Pastils: those to be extraneously adhibited, either in form of an Oyl, or an Unguent, or a salve.

All which receipts and forms of Medicaments we have exhibited in distinct Books and Chapters, described in a good method; where∣in all the Medicaments are contained, wherewith Pharmacopolies should be furnished and guarded. He shall require no more, nei∣ther can he be well furnished with fewer, who desires well to cure the several affections of mans body.

The Apothecaries Shop, OR, ANTIDOTARY. THE FIRST BOOK. Of Alterative and Preparative Medicaments, Distinguished into eight SECTIONS. The first whereof describes onely Syrupes selected and approved by long use.

THE PREFACE.

HOw necessary a Method is in delivering of Disciplines, I think is well known to any moderately-learned man: For without a method, there is no certain rule, neither for Learner or Teacher to walk by: but with this, Arts are more firmly established, their Theorems more optably read, and easily learned. Yet you shall scarce finde two, who in writing Antidotaries, have kept in one rode, or disposed their Compounds in one or∣der. Some preposterously propose Nic. Praepositus for their example; who himself imitating one Nic. Alexandrinus, out of whose Works he excerpt∣ed those his Works, he calls [Joan. Agricol. Ammonius, and M. Tatius Alpin.] went on Alphabetically, treating first of those Medicaments which begun with the letter (A) then with the letter (B) and so he spoke promis∣cuously of the Antidotes Acetum Scylliticum and Amylum. Syl∣vius, Fernelius, and Joubertus, of the later Writers, have assayed by cer∣tain Laws and Rules, to establish an orderly and duly-disposed method; yet they much dissent among themselves; and what one of them approves, ano∣ther disapproves: yet all think that order is best, which curation prescribes: for a series of words onely demonstrate.

We have observed this method in our Shop, wherein are contained all Medicaments, for the expugnation of all diseases; not confusedly described, but such as must be introsumed, are digested in the former part of the An∣tidotary,

such as must be extrinsecally adhibited in the latter part thereof. The first part is distributed into three Books; the first whereof treats of Alterative and Preparative Medicaments; the second of Purgatives; and the third of Cordials, or Roboratives. Each Book is disterminated into many Sections, and they subdivided into many Chapters; the first whereof treats of Syrupes; and first of such as are made of the first and Spring∣flowers, as Syrupe of Violets, Syrupe of Coltsfoot, and of the flowers of Peach-trees.

CHAP. 1. Syrupus Violarum; or Syrupe of Violets.

℞ of Violet flowers fresh, and picked 2 lb. Infuse them eight houres in 5 pints of hot scalding water, in a close * 1.2 pot well glazed: after∣wards press them out; and the same Infusion made hot again, adde to it the same quantity as before of fresh Violets, Infusing them 8 hours more, and so sive times repeated: adde to the Colature 10 lb. ℥ x. of Loaf-sugar, and so make it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Nature alone confects no Syrups, but they acquire their mixtion, coction, and consistence, by Art: yet that which is made of Violets, Water, and Sugar onely, is called a simple Syrupe, in reference to the more compound; which besides these, admit of the seeds of Quinces, Mallowes, Jujubs, Sebesten, and the water of Gourds; whose Authour they make Mesue: but, that I know of, I never found it thus confected in him. That which we call the Simple Syrupe is made in every Pharmacopoly, but not alike simply confected: for it is sometimes made of the succe of Violets and Sugar, sometimes of the same, infused and expressed twice, thrice or oftener; for many infuse and macerate new Violets seven times, others eight, and some nine. But Fernelius thinks that so oft iterated infusion is needless: They in vain (saith he) reiterate the maceration of Violets nine times, for Syrupe of Violets; seeing after the third or fourth infu∣sion, the Syrupe will be as efficacious as after more: But I think that better which is confected by many infusions.

Some put the expressed succe of Violets, others the conserve of Violets, in this syrupe, incrassated by coction, to make it more Vio∣laceous: others make it of pure succe of Violets, and white sugar; others coct their sugar first, to the consistence of an Electuary, and afterwards, with the said succe of Violets, into the crassitude of a syrupe.

Many put a difference betwixt the syrupe of Violets, and the Vio∣laceous syrupe; calling that the syrupe of Violets, which is made of

purged flowers, and that violaceous, which is made of integral and not purged ones: and this indeed hath less of Violets faculties in it, but it is more solutive; for the herbaceous part is emollitive, as well as its leaves: some put onely four pounds of sugar to five of succe, and coct it into the consistence of a syrupe.

Syrupe of Violets breaks the acrimony of Choler, tempers the heat of the bowels, subduces the belly, * 1.3 and conduces to the vices of the breast. It is a special auxiliatory in pectoral and lateral inflam∣mations, and against the roughness of the Aspera arteria: and is very good against the heat of Fevers, cholerick and acute diseases, the ardour of the intrails, and will quench thirst.

CHAP. 2. Syrupus Tusilaginis; or, Syrupe of Coltsfoot.

℞ of Coltsfoot fresh m. vj. Maiden-hair m. ij. Hyssop m.j. Liquorice ℥ ij. boyl them in four pintes of water, till the fourth part be consumed: let the Colature be clarified, and adde thereunto of the finest sugar lb iij. boyl it up to a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe is denominated from Tussilage, as from its basis, which ingredes it in greater quantity: Its author is uncertain, and thence its preparation various. But we have exhibited the best de∣scription, appointing the four prescribed simples, to be cocted in four pounds of water, but lightly.

Those that make this syrupe in the beginning of the spring, take only the flowers of Tussilage; those that make it in summer, adde as much of the green leaves, as they take of its green flowers. Some make it in the middle of summer, onely of the succe of its leaves depurated, and sugar: it may be very well made of the decoction of the flowers and sugar, and be called simple syrupe, in reference to the former more compound, which admits of the true Maidens-hair; in stead whereof, Polytrichum may be substituted.

It helps shortness and difficulty of breathing, the asperity of the windpipe; it cocts, moves, and expectorates spittle: but it must be licked like an Eclegm, that it may stick longer in the Osophage, and reach the amplitude of the asper artery.

CHAP. 3. Syrupus florum Persicorum; Or, Syrupe of the flowers of Peaches Tree.

℞ of Peach flowers fresh lb j.

Infuse them in three pintes of warme Water, for xij hours; after∣wards Boyl them a little, and express them; and let the like quantity of flowers be again infused in the same Colature, and this repeated five times; and to the Colature adde lb iij. of sugar, which Boyl into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe is either made of the fruits, or the flowers of the Peach-tree: that which is made of its fruits is seldom in use, as Chri∣stophorus, Mesues commentator, confesses; and it is made in the be∣ginning of Autume, as that of the flowers in the beginning of the Spring. Three things require that this syrupe be made of fewer infusions; to wit, the loss, penury and amaritude of the flowers: the loss of the flowers, which can be regained by no Art; for the flowers being evelled, new ones grow not again that year, and the tree remains fruitless: the Penury of them; for this tree is sative onely, and without culture bears no fruit: their Amaritude, which will be more intolerable, by how much the infusions are more.

This syrupe educes water and choler, * 1.4 kills worms, frees the Me∣sentery from infarctures; for it opens the passages, incides and educes the humours.

CHAP. 4. Syrupus de Lupulo; Or, Syrupe of Hops.

℞ of the clarified juyce of Hops lb iiij. the juyce of Fumatory lb ij. white sugar lb vj. Boyl them according to Art, and make it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

All do not describe this syrupe alike: for some make it onely of the succe of Hops and Sugar; others adde the succe of Fumatory; to whose judgment I rather incline, for thus its faculties are bet∣tered: it must not be made, till the season in the Spring be pretty hot; for till then, the Fumatory, whose succe is required, appears not; otherwise it must onely be made of the succe of Hops depura∣ted, and Sugar cocted to legitimate spissitude.

It allayes the heat of the intrails, * 1.5 attenuates cold and crass hu∣mours,

educes hot ones; it conduces to the Jaundies, Leprosie, and all diseases caused by obstructions.

CHAP. 5. Syrupus Rosarum Pallid: or, Syrupe of Damask Roses.

℞ of Damask Roses fresh, lb vj. infuse them eight hours in a close vessel in lb xv. of warm Water; afterwards express the flowers, and let the same quantity be again infused, and this repeated nine times; and to the Colature adde an equal weight of Sugar to the infu∣sion, and so Boyl it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Some put not so much sugar to it, but coct it longer, till it grow thick; and then it is more purgative, but less grateful to the palate: many following Mesues advice, keep the first, though twice-iterated infusion in a glass well operculated, putting Oyl upon it, and inso∣lating it forty days; and they call this maceration of Roses, not expressed, but infused Mucharum Rosarum.

But lest some should judge us unmindeful of our purpose, because promising to treat here onely of Alterative and Preparative Medi∣caments, we have adjoyned syrupe of Roses, which is absolutely Purgative; we Answer, that we describe the most usual syrupes, in the same order that the season of the year gives them; not remitting the Purgative, which are very few, till we treat of such Medica∣ments: besides, these that do purge, they do it so ignavely, that they are rather Preparatives then Purgatives.

It is alterative and Hydragogous; for it tempers hotter humours, * 1.6 educes watry ones from very remote parts: if it be taken in great quantity, when it is new made, it is more Purgative; when older, less: it may safely be given to old men and children.

CHAP. 6. Syrupe of Hispidula, or Aelurope, vulgarly called Cats-foot.

℞ of the tops of the flowers of Cats-foot lb j. infuse them a whole night and day in warm water lb v. afterwards Boyl them gently upon a small fire, till lb iiij. of the Colature remains; to which adde Sugar lb iij. and so boyl it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

It is fure enough, that this syrupe hath been but of late use, for they of our age invented it; and, being imboldened by much

experience, approved of it. Joannes Gonerius, a Parisian Apothe∣cary, and perite Medick, first made it at Paris; who seeing the Plant whereof it was made, coming from the Turenian fields, sought and found great plenty of it in fields near Paris, and of them he made his syrupe annually, not borrowing elswhere. It is variously called, to wit, Hispudula, Guaphilium, Coronario, Aelurope, or Cats∣foot; and improperly Harts-foot.

This syrupe is multifariously made; and yet none hath hitherto published its confections: some onely take the summities of the Plant, or its Down, and macerate them in water; others take its flowers and leaves; to whom I easily assent: for thus it becomes more astrictive, and more convenient to stay fluxes; others adde to its decoction, Liquorice, Jujubs, Raisins, Barley, and other be∣chical matters. But this description we have exhibited, is most usual; whereunto, if we adde half a pound of rosaceous sugar, its quality will be more bechical and cordial, and its sapour more gracious.

The manner of its preparation is so easie, that it needs no further dilucidation, then that which is in its perspicuous description: if no Plant but the dry one can be got, then its quantity must be less, and the waters greater.

This syrupe is eximious against many affections of the Lungs: for, * 1.7 Aelurope or Hispudula, being a vulnerary Plant, and astri∣ctive, it doth not onely cure wounds, and hinder Ulcers, but heal many other vices. It is most convenient for such as have fluxes de∣scending into their breast, or have their Lungs infarciated with much pituitous humours: for it cohibits the violence of the falling humour, cocts the flux, roborates the part affected, and moves ex∣pectoration.

CHAP. 7. Syrupus Papaveris simp. or, The Simple Syrupe of Poppy. Mes.

℞ of the heads of white and black Poppy, of each ℥ xij. ss. macerate them a whole day in lb iiij. of Rain-water; and to lb j. of the Co∣lature, adde Sugar and Penidees, of each ℥ vj. or lb ss. and so boyl them into the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue calls this syrupe Simple, in reference to the more com∣pound, whose confection hath many lenitives; as the seeds of Let∣tice, Mallows, Quinces, Jujubs; Maidens-hair also and Liquorice ingrede: whereunto, if need be, Fernelius would have syrupe of Violets, or Jujubs, to make up this simple syrupe: he advises also to adde less of black Poppy, because its use is not safe, and augment the quantity of the white: To which assertion, Joubertus assents

against Rondeletius, and prescribes forty dragms of the black, to eighty of the white.

Vulgar Apothecaries call this Syrupe Diacodium, but imperitely; for Diacodium is reposed among the Opiates: yet one may supply the defect of the other, when sleep should be conciliated.

Poppies heads, by Galens advice, must be so long cocted after ma∣ceration, till they be flaccid and marcid, and not till the third or fourth part of the water be left; for we cannot express their succe, but when they are marcid: and therefore it is in vain to coct them longer. Rain-water is the best; in defect whereof, we may use fountain-water, if it be limpid, insipid, and void of qualities; and therefore the water conducted in leaden pipes, must not be accepted, because there is mud in them: and hence, he that drinks the dregs of such water, will be overtaken with the Dysentery, though in other cases they be wholesome.

The Ancients Diacodium was made in form of an Opiate, and ve∣ry ungrateful; for it admitted of no sugar, but many insuave, and it is probable, useless things: it is not now made, but in its stead, this syrupe made of the decoction of Poppies heads and sugar, which many call improperly Diacodium.

Syrupe of Poppy conciliates sleep, * 1.8 mitigates the temper of the cholerick humour, and allayes the Cough: it becomes more be∣chical, by the access of Penidia, which the Arabians call Alpheni∣cum, because of its whiteness: for it is a most white confection of sugar, so long cocted in the decoction of Barley, till it acquires a ductile consistence, and may be handled, ducted, and formed with ones hands into Pastils and Rowls intorted like ropes.

CHAP. 8. Syrupus Papaveris Erratici; or, Syrupe of Red-Poppy.

℞ of the infusion of Red-Poppies twice or thrice reiterated lb ij. Sugar lb j. ss. Sugar of Roses ℥ iiij. boyl it into a Syrupe according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

Some contend, that this syrupe should be made of more infusions; but two or three are sufficient: for in so poriferous Medicaments, no intenseness of faculties are requisite: moreover, so many infu∣sions will make the colour and sapour of the syrupe more ingrateful. The proportion of water to the sugar, is the same in this, with that in syrupe of Roses.

None of the Ancients spoke of this syrupe of Poppy; but the later age found it good against the Pleurisie, at the beginning there∣of: for it is astrictive, roborative, bechical, and hypnotical; it co∣hibits the humours falling down from the head upon the lungs: and, that it may better effect this, some sugar of Roses must be

added: it may be safely given from half an ounce, to an ounce and a half, and to two ounces to the more valid; especially if the Pleu∣risie be but beginning, or not farre gone: for it will either stay the former flux, or hinder the rising of another.

CHAP. 9. Syrupus Nympheae; or, Syrupe of Water-Lillies.

℞ of Water-Lillies lb ij. infuse them six or seven hours in hot boyling water lb iij. afterwards boyl them a little; and to the Colature, adde again the same quantity of fresh flowers, and let this be repeated three times; and to the Colature, adde an equal quantity of Sugar, to boyl it up into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Some make this syrupe onely of one infusion; but that is more efficacious, which is confected of two or three: the green, herba∣ceous, and flave part also of the flower, should be rejected, and onely the white retained. This is simple, in reference to one more com∣pound, described by Franciscus-Pedomontanus; which is seldome used, because the Simple one is more easie of preparation, and no less efficacious. Moreover, the description of the Compound is by some disallowed of, by some changed; by some the quantity of its ingredients is augmented, by others diminished: its description is well known.

This syrupe refrigerates much, * 1.9 cohibits venereous dreams, re∣strains the immoderate flux of the sperm, conciliates sleep, allayes the heat of the bowels, and abates the ardour of Fevers.

CHAP. 10. Syrupus Capil. vener. Com. or, Syrupe of common Maiden-hair.

℞ of the true Maiden-hair, of the common Maiden-hair, wall-Rue, Spleen-wort, Salvia vita, of each m.j. Liquorice bruised ℥ ij. in∣fuse them twelve hours in a sufficient quantity of water; after∣wards boyl them gently, till it comes to lb v. adde to the Colature White Sugar lb iiij. and so make it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This is the most usual description of this syrupe; whereunto some adde Raisins and Liquorice, others Jujubs; but none of these please Fernelius, who thinks, that the syrupe is made more ignave and weak, by the admistion hereof: but Liquorice may be added; for besides its sweetness, it hath a quality like the capillaries; yet some

reject it, because it makes the syrupe more flave: but the quality and vertue must be more looked after, then the colour. The Parisian Apothecaries make it accurately, according to the description here given, and it is most eximiously Medicinal: they that do otherwise, mixing but a small quantity of capillaries, and macerating them lightly, make indeed a pellucid syrupe, but both in colour and ver∣tue aqueous, and so defraud the Patient of his expectation, and the Physician of his scope.

This is the most celebrated of Preparative syrupes: * 1.10 for it is very useful to oppugne all affections of the breast, liver, spleen, reins, uterus, and to tenuate and prepare humours: for it tempers and cocts choler, incides phlegme, makes the melancholical humour easie to be expurged, yea often subduces the belly by much use; it moves expectoration, incides and cocts the humours contained in the Lungs, and educes them by a second purge.

CHAP. 11. Syrupus capel. Vener. Monspelie. or, Syrupe of Monspelian Maidens-hair.

℞ of Maiden-hair fresh and cut m.ij. infuse it twelve hours in a sufficient quantity of water; afterwards boyl it a little; clarifie the Colature, and to lb v. thereof, adde lb iiij. of Sugar, to boyl it up into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe is most frequently and simply compounded in the City Montpessier, being onely made of the light decoction of true Maidens-hair clarified, and sugar cocted to the consistence of a sy∣rupe.

For thus it is most grateful, both in colour and sapour; and yet that is more grateful to the palate, which admits of Rose-water; which is adjected by the Court-Apothecaries, that they may by guile, rather then science, gain their Princes and Nobles grace, and get their money by subtilty.

It is of affine qualities, but more imbecile then that which admits of all the Capillaries and Liquorice; for it is more ignave, in inci∣ding and attenuating the humours, and opening the passages: and that is most imbecile, which admits of Rose-water; * 1.11 for its faculty being somewhat astrictive, reluctates with those of the Capillaries.

CHAP. 12. Syrupus de quinta radicibus; or, Syrupe of the five opening roots.

℞ of the root of Smallage, Fennel, Parsly, Butchers broom, Aspara∣grass,

of each ℥ iiij. boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water, till it comes to lb iiij. adde thereunto as much Sugar as will make it up into a Syrupe, according to art.

The COMMENTARY.

The roots must be first cleansed, then washed, cut in pieces; their middle cut out and rejected; then brayed and cocted: some would have the coction made in eight pounds of water cocted to five; whereunto, when strained and clarified, they adde four pound of Sugar: which manner and proportion I approve of.

Some would have some Vinegar added to the decoction, that its incisive faculty may be augmented; but when use calls for it, it may be diluted in some attenuating, opening, or other fit liquour, as the Medicks scope requires.

Some make it onely of two roots, to wit, Petroseline, and Fen∣nel roots: but seeing it is less efficacious, and the other roots easily attainable, it is better to make it with five roots, and then they shall not need that which is made of two: But if one more studious of curiosity then necessity, would rather have it of two, let him take of Petroseline and Fennel-roots each four ounces; coct them in a suffi∣cient quantity of water, and adde to two pounds of the colature, two pounds of Sugar, and make a syrupe.

It incides and attenuates crass and glutinous humours, * 1.12 diduces the passages, removes obstructions, expels Urine, moves fluors, ejects sand, and emends the foetid colour of Virgins, and the Jaundies.

CHAP. 13. Syrupus de Althea; or, Syrupe of Marshmallows. Des. Fer.

℞ of the roots of Marshmallows ℥ ij. red Licers ℥ i. of the roots of Grass, Asparagrass, Liquorice, Raisins stoned, of each ℥ ss. the tops of Marsh∣mallowes, Mallowes, Pellitory, Pimpinel, Plantain, both the Maiden∣hairs, of each m j. of the four greater and lesser coole seeds, of each ʒ iij. boyl them in lb vj. of water, till four remain, and with lb iij. of Sugar make it up into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The use of this syrupe is much celebrated in Paris, both for its exi∣mious faculties, and its Authors dignity; to whom posterity is much engaged, for his illustration of the Medicinal Art, and for those many Medicaments wherewith he hath furnished Apotheca∣ries shops. Syrupe of Althea is most useful to sanative Medicks: its preparation is thus; The roots must first be purged and washed, then cocted; afterwards, the Liquorice must be cocted, for by long coction it grows bitter; then the herbs, and afterwards the seeds:

be made in water, to the dissipation of its third part; * 1.13 for longer co∣ction makes the decoction more viscid: all the Simples whereof it consists, are dilucidly explicated in the first Book of Medicinal Matter.

This syrupe expurges crass and pituitous matters, * 1.14 takes away ob∣structions, impels the sand in the Reins, and abates the heat of Urine.

CHAP. 14. Syrupus de Cichor. comp. cum Rhaeo; or, Syrupe of Succory compounded with Rhabarb. Des. Nic. Florent.

℞ of the roots of Smallage, Fennel, Asparagrass, Barley whole, of each ℥ ij. The herbs of Succory, Dandilyon, Endive, smooth Sowthistle, of each ℥ ij. both the Lettices, Liverwort, Fumatory, Hops, an. m.j. both the Maiden-hairs, Wall-rue, Ceterach, Liquorice, Winter-cherries, the seeds of Dodder, of each ʒ vj. Boyl these in lb xij. of water, or a sufficient quantity, till a third part be consumed: to the Colature adde lb vj. of Sugar, which boyl up to a Syrupe; and in the boyling, to every pound of the Syrupe, adde of Rhabarb ℥ ss. and Spikenard ℈ iiij. tyed up in a rag, and hung in the Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Nicolaus Praepositus, whom most Apothecaries have as president, doubles the quantity of Rhabarb prescribed eight times, and addes four ounces of Rhabarb to every pound of syrupe; so that for eve∣ry ounce of syrupe, there are four dragms of Rhabarb: and thus it is made all over Paris. That it may be exhibited when use calls for it without delay, some onely quadruplicate or triplicate the quan∣tity. This so ample quantity of Rhabarb, displeases Fernelius, Jou∣bertus, and others, as being of no utility, but much loss; who think that it were more profitable, when use calls for it, to infuse some Rhabarb in a convenient decoction, and mix it with the syrupe, be∣cause its purgative faculty perishes by coction and asservation. Yet they act prudently, that make it with eight times as much Rhabarb: though its faculties be more imbecile, yet it hath other qualities thereby bettered.

The syrupe of Succory, compounded with Rhabarb, is alliotical, * 1.15 roborative, and purgative: it allayes the heat of the intrails, de∣mulceates the acrimony of choler, opens the veins, takes away ob∣structions, roborates the liver, gently purges the stomack, and upp••r region of the body, educes hot and pituitous humours: if it be as∣sumed in great quantity, it helps in all bilious diseases, and it may be given safely to all ages and sexes.

That which is made without Rhabarb, is called Simple syrupe, though it admit of all the described Simples, except Rhabarb and Spikenard.

But there is one farre more Simple, made onely of the succe of Succory depurated, and Sugar cocted to a legitimate spissitude.

Both of them are good for such as have hot livers, stomacks, and fevers; and such as labour under the ardour of bowels and ob∣structions.

CHAP. 15. Syrupus de Endivia simplex; or, the Simple Syrupe of Endive.

℞ of the Juyce of Endive clarified lb viij. of white Sugar lb v. boyl them into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Some conceive, that this syrupe should be made of the succe of wilde Succory and Sugar; others will rather have it of Endive, be∣cause it is more refrigerative, and not so bitter: in other qualities they agree.

But seeing Intubus is the genus to all the differences of sative Succory, as Endive and Broadleaf; The syrupe may be made of each succe, without discrepance, and yet be called the Simple sy∣rupe of Endive or Intubus: nay, some in a larger acceptation, call it Syrupe of Succory; there being so much affinity both in form and faculty, betwixt the sorts of Succory and Intubus, that each may be used for other, without any manifest errour.

It mitigates the ardour of the Liver, * 1.16 extinguishes the heat of Fevers, and obtunds Choler.

CHAP. 16. Syrupus de Fumar. simpl. or, The Simple Syrupe of Fumatory.

℞ of the juyce of Fumatory clarified lb ij. ss. Sugar lb ij. boyl it into a Syrupe, according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

There are two descriptions of the syrupe of Fumatory; the one more compound, consisting of more ingredients; the other less, consisting onely of the succe of Fumatory and Sugar: The first be∣ing hard to make, they often put to young Apprentices at Paris, to try their ingeny; and a syrupe prepared of those Simples, which are described in its form, is very insuave in odour and sapour, and black of colour: and therefore it cannot be an Alterative Medica∣ment, because ingrateful and ignave; nor yet Purgative, because inefficacious: it is better therefore to keep the Simple syrupe in Pharmacopolies. Now that it may be rightly made, the succe of

the Fumatory must be depurated in the sun; when clarified, mixed with an equal weight of sugar, if the syrupe must be sweet; if not, less: But when the Fumatory's amaritude would be ingrateful, it must be dulcorated with more sugar.

Now Fumatory is a vulgar Plant, whereof there are two sorts; the one Hortensian and bulbous, which is seldome used in Medi∣cine; the other equally growing in cultivated and incultivated fields: of whose succe this syrupe is made.

It frees the Hypochondria from obstructions, mitigates choler, * 1.17 prepares Melancholy succe, and cures such Feavers as arise from the hot distemper of the Liver.

CHAP. 17. Syrupus de Fumaria major; or, The greater Syrupe of Fumatory. D. Mes.

℞ Mirobalan. Citreor. Chebul. of each ℥ ij. ss. of the flowers of Bugloss, Borrage, Violets, the leaves of Wormwood, Dodder, of each ℥ j. Liquorice, Rose-leaves, of each ℥ ss. Epithymus, Polypody of the Oak, of each ʒ vij. Prunes a hundred, Raisins stoned lb ss. Tama∣rinds, Pulp Cassia, of each ℥ ij. Boyl them a little in water, from lb x. till lb iij. remains: to the Colature of which, adde of the Juyce of Fumatory clarified, and white sugar, of each lb iij. make it into a syrupe, according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

But that I have seen this syrupe in many shops, I should willing∣ly have omitted it: for many will reject it, and think it not worth the description, because of its sapour and colour. Besides, its de∣scription prescribes no order for its composition; but it begins sometimes with Mirobolambs, sometimes with Flowers, sometimes with Plants leaves, and sometimes with Roots and Fruits.

But that this composition may be rightly peracted, first, Polypo∣dy must be contunded and elixated; whereunto, when moderately cocted, Prunes, Raisins, Wormwood, Epithymum, Binde-weed, Roses, and Liquorice must be added; then all must boyl together, till seven pounds of the water be absumed; onely the flowers must be added a little before. Sugar must be added to the Colature, and all cocted to the consistency of a syrupe: in the cocting, the expres∣sions of Cassia, Tamarinds, and Mirobolambs must be added, and so the syrupe, besides its other faculties, will be Purgative.

It gently subduces the belly, opens the passages, * 1.18 removes obstru∣ctions, takes away all affections and vices of the skin, arising from salt or adust humours.

CHAP. 4. Syrupus Buglossi; Or, Syrupe of Bugloss.

℞ of the Juyce of Bugloss clarified lb vj. of the flowers of the same lb j. boyl them a little; and to the Colature ad lb iiij. of sugar, boyl it up into the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe being easie to make, and of eximious faculties, may not be omitted. That it may be duly made, the brayed Bugloss must lie in a moist and cold place a whole night, or a day; then it must be calified and expressed; for its succe being viscid, will not otherwise be easily educed: when it is expressed, it must stand, to subside. Some contund the flowers of Bugloss, and coct them a little in that succe, when clarified; others coct them in wa∣ter, and affund the colature with sugar upon the succe: all which they coct to the consistence of a syrupe. Some take onely the leaves, others the roots of Bugloss; but I hold the whole Bugloss more con∣venient.

Syrupe of Borrages succe, is made after the same manner, and works the same effects; so that he that hath the one, needs not the other.

It is good for such as are marcid with long grief and sadness, * 1.19 la∣bour under the Hypochondriacal melancholy, or splenatick affe∣ctions.

CHAP. 19. Syrupus de succo Acetosae; or, Syrupe of the Juyce of Sorrel. D. Mes.

℞ of the Juyce of Sorrel depurated in the sun lb iij. white sugar lb ij. Boyl them together, and make it up into a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This is the most Simple of syrupes; some make it after the same manner with the former; others coct sugar to the consistence of a solid Electuary, whereunto they afterwards adde the depurated and percolated succe; then fervefie the mixture, till it attain the con∣sistence of a syrupe. But more frequently, they coct, purge, and percolate the succe, and mix it with clarified sugar, which they coct to a syrupe; but then its faculties are more imbecile.

This syrupe, * 1.20 according to Mesue its Authour, abates bilious and pestilent fevers, extinguishes the flammeous ardour of the heart and ventricles, and contemperates the aestuating bowels.

CHAP. 20. Syrupus Acetatus simplex; or, The simple of Syrupe of Vinegar, or Oxysacharum. D. Mes.

℞ of the purest Sugar lb v. Fountain-water lb iiij. boyl them together, till half the water be consumed; then adde white-wine Vinegar lb ij. or 3 or 4 lb. according to the accidity required, and so boyl it up in∣to the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Though this syrupe may be made at any time, yet we subjoyn it to the former, because they have much affinity betwixt their facul∣ties: it is called Oxysacharum, for the Vinegar and Sugar whereof it consists. That it may be rightly made, Mesue would have it cocted in Earthen, Tinne, or a Stone-vessel; not Brass or Copper, as some do: some would have distilled Vinegar; but its quality being very sharp, it hurts the ventricle and nerves: the common Vinegar is better, and more accommodate, whose various proportions the Au∣thour may prescribe, as the Medick would have it sharper, or less sharp.

It refrigerates hot humours, incides crass and viscid ones, * 1.21 attenu∣ates and prepares them for expulsion; it arceates putretude, quenches thirst, and allayes the inflammation of the bowels.

Myrepsus exhibits another simple syrupe of Vinegar, whose use I approve of; and it is thus described:

℞ Vinegar ℥ iiij. Juyce of Pomegranates ℥ viij. sugar lb j. boyl it up to a fit consistency.

It is made as the former; and both of them are called Simple sy∣rupes, in distinction to another more compound, whose description Nic. Praepositus gives: But seeing it is of rare or no use, we shall omit it.

This incides crass humours, moves and impels them, if inherent; * 1.22 allays calid humours, refrigerates the heat of the ventricle and liver, and emends the corruption of the humours: or any syrupe of Vi∣negar kills worms, whether in the Intestines or in the Veins; as I saw in one of Paris, in whose basilical Vein was a worm of a palms length.

CHAP. 21. Syrupus de Byzant. simp. & comp. or, The Syrupe of Dynari, or the Byzantian.

Syrupe both Simple and Compound.

℞ of the Juyce of Endive, Smallage, of each lb ij. Hops, Bugloss, Bor∣rage, of each lb j. boyl them a little, and clarifie them; and to lb iiij. of the Colature, adde lb ij. ss. of sugar, to make it up into a Syrupe.

The Compound you may thus confect:

℞ of the aforesaid Juyces rightly clarified lb iiij. in which boyl Rose∣leaves ℥ ij. Liquorice ℥ ss. the seeds of Annis, Fennel, and Smal∣lage, of each ʒ iij. spikenard ʒ iij. strain it, and adde Vinegar lb ij. the whitest sugar lb ij. ss. or lb iij. boyl them according to Art, to the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Both the syrupes are usually made; but he may omit the Simple one, that makes the Compound; as also the Compound syrupe of Vinegar, for it will supply the want of both. The Arabians call it Dynari, because it purges the Ureters; not from Denarium, a piece of Money, as some think: neither can I credit Bern: Dessennius, who saith, That this Name was invented by an inept and covetous fel∣low, who by Dynari portended some sum of Money.

It is called the Byzantian syrupe, from Byzantium, or Constantinople, where it is very frequent, or was invented; or else because Mesue had its description from some Byzantian Medick.

This syrupe opens, * 1.23 incides, and attenuates: it frees the Liver from obstructions, as also the Spleen and Mesentery: it helps the Jaundies, moves fluors, and cures Fevers, which arise from viscid humours.

CHAP. 22. Syrupus de Moris comp. or, The compounded Syrupe of Mulberries.

℞ of the Juyce of Mulberries not altogether ripe lb ss. of the Juyce of red Black- * 1.24 berries, honey despumed, of each lb j. * 1.25 sapa ℥ iiij. boyl these according to Art, to the consistency of a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

As in stead of Diacodium, which was made in form of an Opi∣ate, we use now the simple syrupe of Poppies: so in stead of Dia∣morum,

the syrupe of Mulberries; to whose confection, some now adde the succe of Rassberries, and of Straw-berries, thus confecting it of three kindes of Berries; others leave both out, and sape also: the succes must be cocted with honey, to the consistence of a syrupe, which is more dilute then Diamorum, or Rob of Mulberries, which is now seldome made, most using this compound syrupe in its stead.

The simple syrupe of Mulberries also is very good, which is made of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 succe and sugar; whereunto, if you adde a little Rose-wat••••▪ It will be more grateful, and efficacious in roborating, and staying fluxes.

The compound syrupe cures the eroding Ulcers of the mouth, * 1.26 the affections of the teeth and gums, the relaxation of the uvula or flesh in the orifice of the throat, and all vices of the mouth. It may be taken alone out of a spoon, or diluted in some convenient decoction, in form of a Gargarism.

CHAP. 23. Syrupus Ribes & Berberis; or, Syrupe of Red-Currans or Berberries.

℞ of the Juyce of Red-Currans or Berberries lb iiij. sugar lb ij. ss. boyl them according to Art, to the consistence of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The vulgar French call this Grossula rubra, the Moors Riben, and the shop-men Ribes: they are small, round, red fruits, racemously coherent, pregnant with much succe and small stones, which tunded and pressed, emit a succe; which, after clarification and colation, must be mixed with sugar: but the sugar must be added in less quan∣tity to this, then other cold succes; because this succe will keep long without corruption; and because; by too much sugar, its per∣grateful acidity will be obtunded, and the syrupe weakened.

Berberries succe must also be so extracted, and so cocted with su∣gar into a syrupe. Berberries is a word deduced from Avicenna's Amyrberis, which Dodoneus makes Oxyacantha.

Syrupe of Ribes or Berberries, stayes bilious vomiting, * 1.27 cures hot ••evers, and Heart-aches, quenches thirst, and cohibits the immo∣derate Belly-flux.

CHAP. 24. Syr. de Agresta, seu de Omphacio; or, The Syrupe of sowre Grapes.

℞ of the Juyce of sowre Grapes depurated by residence lb v. white sugar lb iij. boyl them together to a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue makes it as the syrupe of the succe of Citrons; therefore he confects it of Omphacium and a Julep, which is of water and sugar, in a Tinne or Potters-vessel, not in a brasen or copper one; the Omphacium must first be cocted to the thirds, then the sugar must be added, which must first be cocted in thrice as much water, and clarified; then the mixture must be fervefied into t•••• ••nsistence of a fyrupe. Some (saith Mesue) adde Cloves; but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 are bet∣ter left out. Their custome is commendable, who first coct sugar to the consistence of an Electuary: whereunto, they then adde the succe, and coct them lightly into a syrupe; whereinto, they inject the succe of immature Grapes, that it may be more acid.

This syrupe benefits the heart, * 1.28 stayes vomitings, and the bilious flux of the Belly; quenches thirst, allayes the heat of the Bowels, recreates the stomack loaden with hot humours, cures bilious Fe∣vers, and is good against poysons. Mesue.

CHAP. 25. Syrupus Limonum & Granat. or, Syrupe of Lemmons and Pomegranates.

℞ the Juyce of Lemmons or Pomegranates, depurated in the sun, and trajected thorow a woollen strainer lb v. white sugar lb iij. boyl them gently to the consistency of a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

These two Syrupes are joyntly described, because their Prepara∣tions are one, the proportion of sugar to their succes the same, and their faculties similar and affine. Some coct the sugar to the con∣sistence of a solid Electuary: whereupon, they affund their limpid succe, agitate it with a Spatula, and by gentle coction reduce it to a Syrupe. And this preparation is good: for thus the faculty of the succes is not obtunded by the fire, but preserved whole and entire: others elixate the succes to the consumption of their third part, and thereupon affund a simple Julep, and coct them into a Syrupe.

Some take the succes, and dilute them in twice as much sugar, and withall califie them together, that they may better become a Sy∣rupe: and the Syrupe thus confected, will keep best, and hath a ve∣ry idoneous consistence. So the succes be acid enough, it may also be made by insolation, without fire, by the addition of more sugar: But the method prescribed, is the easiest, shortest, and best way of making it, and most in use.

Syrupe of Oranges, and many other fruits, may also be thus con∣fected.

The syrupe of Lemmons asswages continual, pestilent, * 1.29 and conta∣gious Fevers, and all diseases accompanied with great ardour: it emends also the corruption of humours, heart-ach, and other heart-affections. The syrupe of Pomegranates also recreates the heart, ••••cates putretude, cures the diseases and vomitings of choler, and stayes Belly-fluxes.

CHAP. 26. Syrupus Citoniorum simplex; or, The simple Syrupe of Quinces.

℞ of the Juyce of Quinces lb x. boyl it, till half be consumed; let it stand two dayes to settle; afterwards strain it, and adde to it sugar lb iij. boyl it up into a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The manner of confecting this syrupe, is various; for some adde Wine, others Vinegar, others both, and many, Aromata's; and so make it a compound syrupe.

Some would have it more simple, and make it without cocture, purging its succe by residence and insolation; then having clarified it with sugar, percolate and coct it: some dilute the sugar in water, and coct it well, and then adject the succe, and elixate them a little into a syrupe; others make it otherwise: but the description we have given, is most usual, easie, and best.

This syrupe roborates the ventricle, stayes vomiting, * 1.30 represses belly-fluxes, helps such as labour under the Dysentery, Cholick, bloody-flux, immoderate flux of fluors, or Haemorrhoids, and stayes distillations falling from the head, to the breast and inferiour parts.

CHAP. 27. Syrupus de Pomis simplex; or, the simple Syrupe of Apples.

℞ of the Juyce of sweet-Apples, the Juyce of sower-Apples, of each lb v. boyl them till half be consumed; then let it stand that it may settle; afterwards strain it, and with lb iij. of sugar, make it into a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Some to the confection of this syrupe, select the succe of Redolent, others of Russetins; to whom I willingly assent: though Rondele∣tius refragate, who disproves the succe of Russetins upon very in∣firm grounds, because their flesh is hard: the succe of those they call Apples of Paradise, is also very laudable.

Some immerge silk newly tincted with scarlet in the succe, either before, or after depuration, till it be red, and receive the vertue of

the tincture, and so become more excellent; others put Orange-juyce to it: but the description tradited is best, according to Mesue.

Such Apples must be selected, as are not onely fragrant with their suavity, to recreate the heart; but also subacid, to exhilarate the parts appertaining to the hearts Oeconomy, arceate putretude, and contemperate Melancholical humours.

This syrupe of Apple-juyce incides and diminishes Melancholical humours, * 1.31 moves sudour, abates the hearts palpitation, helps its trembling and debility; and, according to Mesue, prohibits swound∣ing: so that it is of perpetual use.

CHAP. 28. Syrupus Regis Saboris; or, King Sabor's syrupe. D.Mes.

℞ of the Juyce of sweet-smelling Apples lb iij. the clarified Juyce of Bugloss and Borage, * 1.32 of each lb ij. the Leaves of Senna picked from its stalks ʒ iiij. Amseed, ℥ ss. Saffron ʒ ij. sugar lb iiij. boyl these ac∣cording to Art, to the consistency of a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

No Pharmacopoly should be without this eximious syrupe; to whose confection, Senny must first be a little brayed, then macerated a whole natural day, with Anise, in the succes described; after∣wards, once or twice fervefied and strained: the expression strained and clarified, must be cocted into a syrupe: Saffron bound in a linen cloth may be cocted in it: it took its name from Sabor King of the Medes; for the conservation of whose sanity, it was invented and instituted.

It recreates the vital spirits, * 1.33 exhilarates the mind, contemperates and purges melancholick humours, attenuates crass and viscid hu∣mours, discusses flatuosity, gently subduces the belly, and purifies the blood.

CHAP. 29. Syrupus Myrtinus, comp. or, the compound Syrupe of Myrtle.

℞ of the berries of the Myrtle-tree ℥ ij. ss. white Sanders, * 1.34 red Sumach, Pomgranate flowers, Berberies, red Roses, of each ℥ j. ss. Medlars lb ss. let these be bruised, and boyled in lb viij. of water, till it come to lb iiij. adde thereunto of the Juyce of Quinces and Pomgranates, of each lb ij. Sugar lb v. boyl it to a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe holds its old composition, wherein many astrictives

are mixed together, to supply the defect of Myrtle-berries, which are very rare; whereof, if there were any plenty, it were better to make the syrupe onely of their succe, and Sugar. Valerius Cordus mixes it with the succe of wild Apples; Fernelius, of acid Pome∣granates; which I like not.

It roborates the ventricle and bowels, * 1.35 abates the antiquate belly∣flux, prohibits the eruption of blood, and the deflux of all hu∣mours from the head to the inferiour parts.

CHAP. 30. Syrupus Menthae simp. & comp. or, the simple and compound Syrupe of Mint. D.Mes.

℞ of the Juyces of Mint clarified, sweet Pomegranates and sowre, of each lb j. Sugar and Honey, as much as will make it into a syrupe.

The Compound is thus made.

℞ of the Juyces of sweet and dulcoacid Quinces, of acid and dulcoacid Pomegranates, of each lb j. ss. * 1.36 macerate in these for 24 hours dried Mint lb j. ss. red Roses ℥ ij. boyl them till half be consumed: to the Colature adde lb ij. of sugar, and in the boyling hang in a rag ʒ ij. of Gallia Moschata.

The COMMENTARY.

These syrupes, by the consent of the Author, may be made either with Honey or Sugar: but that is better, and more suave, which admits of Sugar; whereof Fernelius addes twice the quantity to the succe: but the more usual way of confecting the compound, admits of onely two pounds of Sugar; as Mesue hints, who in his own idiome, calls Dulcoacid and Semi-mature fruits, Muzae, that is, pleasant; for then their sapour arrides the sto∣mack. He that hath the compound, needs not the simple.

But if the Mint be dry, its quantity is greater; for it is enough that one pound ten ounces be cocted in the succes, and as much Sugar added to this Colature; for it will be very insuave, if made as Mesue describes it.

It roborates the ventricle, hinders heart-aches, vomiting, * 1.37 sighing and belly-flux: but the more compounded is better.

SECT. II. Of Syrupes which may be made at any time.

IN the first Section, we described in order such Syrupes as should be con∣fected in the Spring, Summer, and Autumn: for the end of the prece∣dent season, being one with the beginning of the consequent, those Syrupes which are made in the end of the Spring, may as well be made in the begin∣ning of Summer: so that I would not disterminate the former Thirty Sy∣rupes into exact Sections; yet we have given their description in such order, as the collection of the Simples required; placing those first, which are made of the first flowers of the Spring; those last, which are made of fruits in Autumn; and those in the middle, which are made of flowers, roots, succes, and decoctions in Summer: But in this Section, we shall onely exhibit such as are or may be made in Winter, or other seasons.

CHAP. 1. Syr. Rosar. siccan. or, Syrupe of dry Roses. D. Fernel.

℞ of dryed * 1.38 Roses lb j. Infuse them 24 hours in hot boyling water lb iiij. in the expression, mix of the finest sugar lb ij. boyl it up to the cor∣sistency of a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Every one confects this syrupe after his own arbitration; one while augmenting, another while lessening the quantity of Roses; sometimes iterating their maceration twice, and sometimes oftner: But no description can be more exact, then this of Fernelius; where∣in is observed, a due proportion of Roses to the water, and of both, to sugar: and this syrupe, confected with one maceration, is all out as efficacious as any: but red Roses must be selected, not white or pale ones.

It stayes the belly-flux, * 1.39 roborates the internal parts, gently deter∣ges and agglutinates Ulcers, asswages vomiting, and cohibits Rheu∣matism.

CHAP. 2. Syrupus Reg. sive Alexand. &c. or, The Princely or Alexan∣drian Syrupe, of old called, The Julep of Roses.

℞ of Damask Rose-water lb iij. Loaf-sugar lb ij. boyl it gently to a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

He that considers this syrupe's perspicuity, would, with Mesue, call it a Julep; its consistence, a Syrupe; and its suavity, a syrupe for Alexander, or some Prince: for, both Kings and delicate per∣sons delight to use it. It is easie to make, and may be made at any time; and no Pharmacopoly can well be without it; though our Ancestors knew not of it, being not of skill to elicite Rhodostagme or Rose-water.

Mesue describes another Julep of Roses, made of their infusion; after which manner, two syrupes may be made; one of pale Roses, which is purgative; and another of dry ones: but neither of them are justly called Juleps.

This syrupe is cordial, bechical, roborative, and alterative; * 1.40 help∣ing the breast, liver, ventricle, thirst, and all ardour.

CHAP. 3. Syrupus de Absinthio; or, Syrupe of Wormwood. D. Mes.

℞ of dryed Roman Wormwood lb ss. Roses ℥ ij. Spikenard ʒ iij. old white-wine, Juyce of Quinces, of each lb ij. ss. macerate them a whole day upon hot embers; afterwards boyl them, till half be consu∣med: and to the Colature, adde clarified honey lb ij. to make it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Dry Pontian or Roman Wormwood, must be taken, and minutely incided, that it may be infunded with Roses and Spikenard in gene∣rous Wine, as Muskadine, or the like, in an Earthen vessel leaded, 24 hours, upon the hot ashes; that done, they must be ferve∣fied once or twice; afterwards, honey, or rather sugar, must be added: some make two sorts; one, of honey and vulgar wormwood; the other, of sugar and lesser wormwood.

Some make this syrupe of one half pound of green wormwood, in three pounds of water cocted to the third; adding to the colature, clear, generous, and ancient white-wine, and the best white honey, of each one pound, and coct them to the consistence of

a syrupe. Which-ever of these wayes it is made, it is very ingrate∣ful; and thence many rightly diminish the quantity of the worm∣wood, and augment the sugar: for those things that would robo∣rate the ventricle, if ingrateful, subvert it.

This syrupe roborates the stomack, * 1.41 helps concoction, excites ap∣petite, discusses flatuosity, opens the veins, and moves urine.

CHAP. 4. Syrupus de Stoechade; or, Syrupe of Stoecados. D. Fernel.

℞ of the flowers of Stoecados ℥ iiij. Thyme, Calamint, Origanum, of each ℥ j. ss. Sage, Betony, the flowers of Rosemary, of each ℥ j. ss. the seeds of Rue, Piony and Fennel, of each ʒ iij. boyl them in lb x. of water till half be consumed: and to the Colature, adde sugar and he∣ney, of each lb ij. make it into a syrupe, aromatize it with Cine∣mon, Ginger, sweet-Cane, of each 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tyed up in a linen rag.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue gives two descriptions of this syrupe: in both which, he puts Pepper and Bartram; which being hotter, are rejected by Fer∣nelius: and he addes certain cephalical Medicaments; to wit, Sage, Betony, Poeony, and Rosemary, that it may acquire the effect the Author intends. This syrupe is cognominated from its Basis, to wit, Staecados; whereunto the rest are adjoyned, to acquire more cephalical and noble faculties. Sylvius permits it to be made with sugar, and not honey, for the more delicate.

It conduces to many affections of the brain, * 1.42 as Mesue attests; to which it would nothing confer, if it were made after his description: for Stoechas, which he puts for its Basis, is more hepatical or sple∣nical, then cephalical: therefore Fernelius addes many cephalicals, which make his syrupe conduce to the Epilepsie, Cramp, Trembling, and all cold affections of the brain.

CHAP. 5. Syrupus de Glycyrrhiza; or, Syrupe of Liquorice. D. Mes.

℞ of Liquorice scraped and bruised ℥ ij. white Maiden-hair ℥ j. dryed Hyssop ℥ ss. macerate them a whole day in lb iiij. of rain-water, then boyl them till half be consumed: to the Colature, adde of the best ho∣ney, penidees and sugar, of each lb ss. Rose-water ℥ vj. and so boyl them into a syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Many do right, in not cocting dry Liquorice long, lest it grow

bitter, but put it in in the end of the coction; they clarifie the Colature with Penidia, Sugar, and Honey, then coct it to a syrupe, adding thereunto some Rose-water, before it be perfectly cocted; which some disallow of, because the syrupe is confected for purga∣tion, and the Rose-water is astrictive; to whose opinion Jouber∣tus subscribing, substitutes the water of the infusion of Roses as less astrictive; but this water is therefore commixed, that the syrupe may thereby participate of an astrictive quality, and assumed in the beginnings of diseases, stay the fluent humours, and coct such as have delabed.

The infusion may be desumed for want of the water, but not as less astrictive.

This syrupe consists not onely of simple, but compound Medica∣ments; to wit, of Penidees, which are made of Barly, Water and Sugar, cocted in such proportion and Art, that a very solid mass arises thence, so tractable, that it adheres not to ones fingers, but may be drawn into small, long, crass, short or intorted threads, al∣wayes white: and hence its name is Alphenicum.

It stayes the humours flowing from the brain, * 1.43 cocts such as are fallen, helps the cough, and causes the expectoration of cocted hu∣mours.

CHAP. 6. Syrupus Jujubinar. or, Syrupe of Jujubees. D.M.

℞ of Jujubees n. lx. Violets, the feeds of Mallows, of each ʒ v. Liquo∣rice scraped and bruised, Maiden-hair, Barley, of each ℥ j. the seeds of Quinces, white Poppies, Melons, Lettice, Gumme Thraganth, of each ʒ iij. boyl them in lb iiij. of Fountain-water: to the Colature adde of sugar lb ij. to bring it into the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

In confecting this syrupe, the cleansed Barly must first be cocted, then the Jujubs added, then the Liquorice, afterwards Maidens∣hair, and the seeds of Melons, Lettice, and Poppy; at length, Vio∣let-flowers; and Tragacanthum in the end, lest by longer coction it become fume.

It should be included with Mallowes and Quinces-seed in a li∣nen cloth, and then cocted with the rest in four or five pounds of water, to the absumption of the third part, and elixated with the said quantity of sugar, into the consistency of a syrupe: the co∣ction should not be to the half, unless the weight of sugar be aba∣ted.

It conduces to hoarseness, cough, pleurisy; it cocts, * 1.44 moves and educes spittle, and that of Violets, and is a mean betwixt the syrupe of Poppy; it cohibits all fluxions, and cocts the defluxed humours.

CHAP. 7. Syrupus de Hyssopo; or, Syrupe of Hyssop. D. Mes.

℞ of dryed Hyssop, the roots of Smallage, Fennel, Liquorice, of each ʒ x. Barley ℥ ss. the seeds of Mallows and Quinces, Gumme Thraganth, of each ʒ iij. Maiden-hair ʒ vj. Jujubees, Sebestens, of each n. xxx. Raisins stoned ℥ j. ss. dryed Figs, fat Dates, of each n. x. boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water, to lb iiij. to the Colature, adde Pe∣nidees lb ij. make it up into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe is cognominated from Hyssop, its Basis; in the con∣fection whereof, its Author Mesue is so far from defining a quantity of water, that he mentions no water at all; but, they should take eight pounds, wherein they should coct the Barly half an hour; then inject the incided roots to be elixated a quarter of an hour; then all the fruits; at length the seeds bound in a linen cloth with Tragacanthum, and at last pretty dry Hyssop, true Maidens-hair, or in its stead vulgar Maidens-hair: Penidees made without starch must be added to the Colature; by coction reducted to three pounds, and clarified: some had rather put in sincere sugar; others, the water of sape and sugar: but it is best to confect it according to Mesue's description.

The same Author describes more preparations of this same syrupe; but this we have transcribed is the most usual and best.

This syrupe conduces much to difficulty of breathing, * 1.45 pectoral dolours from a cold cause; it takes away obstructions, moves flours, and deterges sand from the reins and bladder.

CHAP. 8. Syrupus de Aretemisia; or, Syrupe of Mugwort. D. Fern.

℞ the leaves of Mugwort m. ij. the roots of Orris, Enula-campane, Mad∣der, Piony, Lovage, Fennel, of each ℥ ss. the leaves of Peny-royal, Origanum, Calamint, Nep, Balm, Basil, Carrets, Savin, Marjoran, Hyssop, Horehound, Germander, Groundpine, St. Johns-wort, Fe∣verfew, and Betony, of each m. j. the seeds of Anis, Petroseline, Fen∣nel, Rue, Gith, of each ʒ iij. bruise those that are to be bruised, and macerate them 24 hours in Hydromel lb viij. boyl them to lb v. and with lb v. of Sugar coct it into a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

This syrupe of Mugwort first described by Matthaeus, containing

a mass of Medicaments perperously congested, was rightly casti∣gated by Fernelius; who substracting such things as were not known, inconvenient and supervacancous, left onely such as were usesul, as Plantius well observed: for when it is in vain to adde more, where the thing may be better done by fewer; what need had we of so much cost and time, in seeking and congesting many Simples, when much fewer were better? yet, no cost or pains must be spared, when the sanity of a man lies at the stake; so that the labour be not lost, nor cost frustraneous. A great and solemn composition, whose bo∣nity many ages have found, and experience sufficiently proved, must neither admit of mutation nor mutilation; but such as are described without ground or reason, must be either omitted or castigated. This syrupe is denominated from Mugwort, which is its Basis: its preparation is clear enough in the description.

Yet it may be more Simply, easily, and as efficaciously made, thus:

℞ of the roots of Rest-harrow Madder, Grass, Butchers-Broom, of each ʒ vj. the seeds of Carret, and Roman-Gith, of each ʒ j. * 1.46 Mug∣wort m. ij. Savin, Marjoran, Nep, Hyssop, of each m. ss. boyl them in lb v. of water: to the Colature adde lb i. ss. of sugar and lb ss. of Honey, to bring it into the consistence of a syrupe.

This syrupe potently moves suppressed or staying fluors, * 1.47 and al∣layes the strangulation and subversion of the Uterus.

CHAP. 9. Syrupus resumptivus; or, The resumptive Syrupe.

℞ of the flesh of Snails ℥ iiij. Barley whole ℥ ij. the pulp of Dates ℥ j. Raisins, Kiquorce; of each ʒ vj. Sebestens, Jujubees, of each n. xij. Cotton-seed, Melon, Cucumer, and Gourd-seeds, of each ℥ ss. The seeds of Lettice and * 1.48 Poppy, of each ʒ ij. Coltsfoot, Lungwort, of each m.j. the flowers of Violets and white Lillies, of each ℥ ss. boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water to lb iiij. of Colature; to which ad de lb ij. of the whitest Sugar, Sugar of Roses, and Diatraganthum frigidum, of each lb ss. coct it to a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The resumptive syrupes, in a general acception, may be referred to all analepticall and restorative ones; wherein Medicks adhibit Snails flesh, after the example of that, whereof Joannes Tornamyra is Authour by assent; though I could neither see it in him, nor any other Antidotariographer in my life: and that which is now made by Medicks, is made after as many different manners, as there are dif∣ferent Shops wherein it is made; yea all the descriptions that I have seen of it, (and they were no few) differ among themselves; some ad∣mitting

too many attenuatives; others, too viscid ingredients; others, useless ones; and others in such a confused form, as if they could scarce be prepared as described.

All of them require nemoral Snails, which yet, if there be any such, are worse, as Rubetae amongst Frogs, because their succe is sharper and more fervid, but less nutritive, and apt to resarciate: therefore I judge the vulgar more wholesom, which live partly on the water, partly on the land.

And Rondeletius said true, that Snails could not alwayes live with∣out water: whence these terrestrial Snails, must be such as live in muddy and fenny places, partly on limpid water, and partly on dry land.

But they must be duly prepared, before they accede the con∣fection of this syrupe; their necks, tails, and members, must be first abscinded, their shels divided or separated, that all the flesh may be extracted, which must be purged from all filth, cut into pieces, and cocted together with the Simples enumerated; and those in such order, as they that require longer coction, may be sooner injected; those that require shorter, later.

And so it were better to coct the simples severally from the flesh, and the flesh first, or last, as the Medick will. Sugar and Penidees must be added to the Colature.

It is good for such as resurge from long diseases, * 1.49 or are marcid, tabid, or consumed, or labor under some prave affection of the lungs.

CHAP. 10. Syrupus exhilarans; or, The exhilarative Syrupe. D. Dom. Laurent.

℞ of the Juyces of Borrage and Bugloss lb j. ss. of the Juyce of sweet smelling Apples lb j. of the Juyce of Balm ℥ ss. of Kermes-berries ʒ iij. Saffron ʒ ss. Spec. diamarg. frigid. ʒ ss. Diambrae ℈ iiij. Loaf-sugar lb ij. coct it into Syrupe according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

Doctor Laurentius, the King of France's chief Physician, gives this description, in a certain learned piece of his, about conserva∣tion of the Sight, Melancholy, Catarrhs, and old Age; and he con∣fesses, that his Kinsman Castellanus, the King of France's chief Chirur∣geon, was its Author: and it is thus confected:

The grains of Kermes must be infused a whole night in the depu∣rated succes, upon hot ashes; the sugar diluted in its strong expres∣sion; then all cocted into a syrupe; in whose middle, a little bundle must be suspended, wherein the powders and Saffron are contained: its dosis may be from one ounce to two ounces, in the morning before meat, or at night before sleep.

It is cognominated exhilarative, because it hath an eximious fa∣culty in recreating the heart and vitals, erecting the saculties, abi∣gating sorrow, and tempering the malign quality of melancholy.

This syrupe may be substituted, in stead of that that is made of Ker∣mes, in such parts where the Illex is coccigerous: of which consection we were not unmindeful; but being easie to make, we omitted it, and left to such, whom Nature hath inriched with its eximious succe.

There are inumerable more descriptions of syrupes in divers Au∣thors; but some of them being disapproved of, others scarce proved, we will not onerate, or rather inquinate our Antidotary therewith. For the acid syrupe of Manna, the syrupe of sweet Pomegranates, of Persian Apples, of acid Prunes, of Pears, of deansed Grapes, of Thyme, and many more, which Mesue describes, are out of use.

I hear of the syrupes of the greater Centaury, of St. Johns-wort, of Ivy, of Tobacco, of Fennel, and some others, not yet proved by use; of which, if the Famous Colledge at Paris approve, I shall approve also. Myrepsus his syrupe, the syrupe of Diasireos, the syrupes of Lilly, of Acorus, of Madder, of Penny-royal, of Turbith, of Grapes, of Myrobalambs, and others, which Jacobus de Manliis, Andernacus, Wekerus, and some of the later rank describe, are now wholly neg∣lected.

SECT. III. Of Syrupes dulcorated with Honey.

THere rest yet some Syrupes, which we shall describe in this Section, that are not dulcorated with Sugar, but with Honey, nor made like the rest of the decoctions of Roots, Leaves, Flowers, Seeds, and Fruits, but onely of limpid and aqueous succes: whereunto, we may well referre that Hydromel, which is called the vinous Hydromel; for in sapour, faculties and consistence, it responds to a Syrupe.

CHAP. 1. Oxymel, seu Acetum mulsum, &c. Oxymel or sweet Vinegar: Secanjabin in Arabick.

℞ of the best Honey lb ij. of Fountain-water lb iiij. white-wine Vine∣gar lb j. boyl them together in a fit vessel, to the consistency of a li∣quid Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The Honey must first be cocted in water, and despumed; then must the Vinegar be by little and little adjected; then all cocted together, till they acquire the consistence of a liquid syrupe: But the Ancients have not definitely described the quantity of Vinegar; for seeing Honey, according to Galen, is hot, and in hot natures turns soon into bile; so much Vinegar must be added, by Oribasius his advice, as will correct that bilefying faculty; and so it may be made into Oxymel, convenient and useful for all ages and sexes: for it is as sweet, as acid, and as mean, and should be made variously according to the gust of the assumer, so that it may not hurt: for things very sharp, abrade the intestines, and hinder expectoration; but that which is moderately acrimonious, is very useful to the affections of the breast and lungs; for it educes spittle, and facilitates spiration; for it incides and attenuates crass humours, expurges the bowels without molestation, and attenuates mans meat.

Its preparation then is various, and the proportion of Honey to Vinegar, and of Vinegar to water, is various; for though the a que∣ous be better to most, yet it agrees not to all.

Oribasius would have twice as much Honey, and four times as much water, as Vinegar; and would have them all cocted to the thirds; which is the same with that that Mesue gives: whereunto, Serapius assents, though he elsewhere makes them of equal parts; but that is too sowre.

Now the middle betwixt both, may be of one part and a half of Vinegar, to two of the best Honey, which emits not much spume: for all Honey that emits more spume, is not so good, but must be cocted, and despumed longer, and so its greatest part dissipated in coction: for it must be cocted till it effer no more spume.

Thus the quantity of the Vinegar must be augmented and dimi∣nished according to the will of the user, to whom it is more conveni∣ent as he more defires is, and so it should be made according to every disposition: yet that which is kept in shops, is usually prepared as Mesue hath described; and is made more sweet, or more sowre, as the assumer desires it, and the exigency calls for it.

Oxymel incides, * 1.50 attenuates and prepares crass and viscid humours for expurgation, conduces equally to hot and cold affections, and effects what we have before mentioned.

CHAP. 2. Oxymel Stilliticum; or, Oxymel of Squills.

℞ of Honey despumed lb iij. Vinegar of Squills lb ij. boyl them in an earthen pipkin, to the consistency of a liquid Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The Medick Marcellus makes it after another manner, by super∣adding water. For he takes of Squils lb j. Fountain-water lb iiij. loyl them to a pinte and half, and so let it stand a whole day, close covered; afterwards press it out, and to the expression, adde as much Vinegar, with lb iij. of the best Honey; let it be again gently boyled to a fit consistency.

Mervardus also, and Bern. Dissennius, think it cannot be made with∣out water; to which opinion, some assent, who mix twice as much water with this, as with the Simple Oxymel: But Sylvius saith this is needless, seeing the Honey is first cocted and despumed in water, and the Vinegar legitimately prepared with Scilla, and the Acetum is thus made: one pound of the segments of Scilla, trajected on a thread, and dried in a shade, is macerated in eight pounds of white-Wine; the mixture is insolated in either a Glass-vessel, or an earthen one, well glazed, with an angust orifice, by the space of forty days in the hot Sun; then it is strained; and the segments being ejected, and the Liquorice preserved, which was of more use heretofore then now.

There are many and various wayes of making it; but the descri∣ption we have given is most usual, and agrees with that which Paulus Aegineta gives of it.

There are also many wayes of making Oxymel Scilliticum; but Democrates, Julian, and the rest, make it more compound: but these are neglected, and no where made, therefore omitted by us.

It incides crass humours, * 1.51 takes away obstructions caused by crass humours impacted on the lungs, and cures the Epilepsie, Vertigo, Cephalalgia, and Hemitrania.

CHAP. 3. Oxymel Compositum; or, Compounded Oxymel.

℞ of the roots of Smallage, Fennel, Parsly, Butchers-broom, Aspera∣grass, of each ℥ ij. the seeds of Smallage and Fen••el, of each ℥ j. boyl them all in lb xij. of water: in the clarified Colature, mix of the best Honey lb iiij. white-wine Vinegar lb j. coct it into a liquid Sy∣rupe.

The COMMENTARY.

The compounded Oxymel, is made like the simple Oxymel Stil∣liticum; one simple and usual Vinegar is here substituted in stead of the other. Praepositus makes a certain compounded aromatical Oxymel, and another potently diuretical, mixing with the one many Aromata's, with the other Grass-Orris and Radish-roots: but these may be added when use calls for it, and no other compo∣sititious Oxymel kept in shops.

The quantity of Honey is not determined by Authors, because it is sometimes to be made more acrimonious, at other times sweeter. But if we should define the quantity, we would make it in a mean, betwixt acritude and sweetness.

It incides, * 1.52 attenuates, and absterges viscid and pituitous humours; frees the liver, spleen, and bowels from obstructions; expels the sand of the reins and bladder, and moves urine.

CHAP. 4. Hydromel vinosum simplex; or, Simple vinous Hydromel.

℞ of the best Honey lb x. pluvial or fluvial water lb lx. boyl them to∣gether, till an egge will swim at top; then insolate it, and preserve it.

The COMMENTARY.

If this Receipt like not any one, he may take water, and coct it to the absumption of its third part, accurately absterging and abject∣ing the spume: for thus the more dissipable part of the water be∣ing vanished, the remnant will have a consistence like a liquid Sy∣rupe; its sapour will be sweet, and the coction fit for conservation.

Many Medicaments mutuate their basis and appellations from Honey, as Mulsam, or Mede, Hydromel both aqueous and vinous, Oxymel, and many other Medicinal Honeys; of the succes of Plants, as Rhodomel; or Honey of Roses, Honey of Violets, Mercury, Rai∣sins, Rosemary, and Anacardium.

Mede consists onely of Water and Honey, mixed in a different proportion; and that is called dilute Mede, that admits but of lit∣tle Honey, * 1.53 and very much water; For we make Mede, saith Oribasi••••, when we mix much water with Honey, and coct them till they cease to emit spume; for then the spume must be taken off: But the quan∣tity of Honey must be augmented for pituious humours, both to alter the peccant humour, and to conciliate a more grateful gust.

Oribasius was out, when he thought that Mede should be made of Wine and Honey, and Melicrass of Honey and Water: for they are both one. Though Mesue calls Melicrass, Oxymel, and gives two descriptions thereof; the one consists of Wine and Honey; the other, besides these two, admits of many Aromata's; as Cloves, Cinamome, sweet-Cane, Mace, and the like; which by some (he assenting thereto) is called a Condite.

But this kinde of Potion, which consists of Wine and Honey, is called Oinomel; * 1.54 it is sometimes confected of two parts of old Wine, and one of Honey; and sometimes of five parts of new Wine, and one of Honey: which when cold, is reposed into Hogs-heads, (Oribasius C. 25. L. 5. Collectorum.)

Simple and vulgar Hydromel is prepared just as Melicratum; so that they differ onely in name, not in substance: yet Galen saith, Me∣licratum

or Mede should be made of rain-water, and Hydromel of fountain-water.

Apomeli is made also after the like manner; for according to Galen, it may be made of rain or any water, so it be pure, and Ho∣ney expressed from the comb; which must be so long cocted together till spume cease to exurge; which must be taken off, as soon as it emerges; for so it will depose its acrimony. The Ancients called it syrupe of Honey-combs.

Philagrius gives a better description, to a better Apomelie, thus: Let some Combs, full of the best Honey, be strongly pressed betwixt ones hands; and let a portion of the honey expressed, be injected into four times as much pure water, and let the Honey-Combs be also immerged and washed in the water, that they may depose all their Honey; then let the water be strained, then cocted over a lucu∣lent fire, and well despumed; let it then be taken off, and frigefie, and let what-ever swims upon, be abjected; then boyl it again, and despume it; which iterate thrice: and when it is at last frigefied and purged from its excrements, inject this Apomeli into an Earthen or Wooden Vessel.

Aqueous Hydromel is scarce ever preserved in shops, but presently made, when use calls for it; but the vinous is often confected by the Medicks advice, and kept in Citizens houses, as some Nectar, more precious then Malmsey: for it potently cocts frigid humours, moves expectoration, roborates the stomack, hinders crudities, helps concoction, moves appetite, discusses flatuosity, mitigates cholical dolours, moves urine, and very much profits cold constitutions.

The English were wont to make a more composititious vinous Hydromel, which they called Metegla; * 1.55 which received less of Ho∣ney, but more Aromata and Leaven: which is thus confected.

℞ of the best and most refined Honey lb x. of the clearest spring-water lb lx. boyl them together, till a third part be consumed, * 1.56 casting away the spume as it rises; and when it begins to grow cold, put it into a conve∣nient vessel: in which hang a nodule of Leaven ℥ iij. adding Cina∣mon, Grains, Pepper, Ginger, Cloves bruised, of each ʒ j. set it in a place where the sun may * 1.57 come, then preserve it in a Wine-Cellar for future use.

This kind of potion is most pleasent; it will often keep two years in sapour and faculties: it responds to Malmsey.

SECT. IV. Of Succes dulcorated with Honey.

PHarmacopolies preserve some Honeys, made of the infusions of Plants, or of their succes compounded with Honey, which from their con∣fistence and Honey, some call Syrupes of Honey; but we rather from their succes, which ingrede their confecture, and Honey, call them Melleous succes: for whether the extracted succes of Plants be adjoyned to Honey, or the Plants themselves be macerated in Honey, their succes are alwayes mixed with Honey; whence the whole mixture is rightly called, A Melleous succe.

CHAP. 1. Mel Rosatum, Lat. Rhodomeli, Graec. Geleniabin, Arab. or, Honey of Roses.

℞ Red Roses a little dryed in the shade lb ij. Honey, neither too old nor too new lb vj. mingle them, and boyl them upon a gentle fire in a Pipkin to a good consistence, and so preserve it for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

All do not prepare honey of Roses alike; but many, despising the descriptions of Mesue and Nic. Praepositus, one while make it with fire onely, another while by insolation, another while by both; and sometimes by none of them, but onely by maceration: some in∣ject the whole Roses into the honey; others bray them first: some use onely the succe; others both the succe, and other Roses: the most usual preparation, is after the manner we have tradited; wherein the Roses, a little dryed, must be macerated in honey, then elixated a little, afterwards exposed to the Sun, and moved every third day, that they may be hot on every side: Whilest they are thus made, and not strained, they are called, Honey of Rose-leaves; if they be calified, and strained, as they are usually, before they be used, they are then called Honey of strained Roses; and espe∣cially that that results from brayed Roses and Honey. That which is made of two parts of the succe of exungated Roses, and one of Honey, cocted together to the absumption of the fourth part, whose spume must be diligently extracted in boyling, is called, The liquid distrained Honey of Roses.

Honey of Roses cohibits hot fluxes, * 1.58 whether assumed or applied: it helps, deterges, and roborates the stomack.

CHAP. 2. Mel Violatum; or, Honey of Violets.

℞ of the fresh flowers of Violets lb j. the best Honey lb iij. mingle them in a convenient vessel with a narrow orifice: insolate it, and keep it for use.

The COMMENTARY.

Some to the confection of this honey, bray the Violets; others mix them whole, being small flowers, with hot honey, in an carthen glazened pot; then they expose the pot to the Sun for fifteen dayes, each other day agitating the mixture with a rudicle: then they re∣pose it; and when use calls for it, mix it with a little water, elixate it a little, strain it; and thus they get special honey of Violets: o∣thers do otherwise; and, in Mesue's opinion, it may be made like honey of Roses well: but the Violets should be a little dryed, or at least deprived of all acquisititious humidity, and the honey should be used neither too new, nor too old.

Honey of Violets is commended to pectoral affections; it miti∣gates, absterges, refrigerates and roborates; and therefore it is use∣fully mixed with many Glysters and Gargarisms, and adhibited to deterge Ulcers.

CHAP. 3. Mel Anthosatum; or, Honey of Rosemary.

℞ of the flowers of Rosemary lb j. Honey well despumed lb iij. mingle them in a Jarre-glass, and set it in the Sun; which after a conve∣nient insolation, preserve for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

This of Rosemary, is made like them of Violets and Roses. Some commend the oldest honey, but I like the honey of a middle age, because it is neither too dilute, nor too crass. This is called Mel Anthosatum, because the flowers of Rosemary are for their dig∣nity and praecellence called Anthos, or flowers.

And seeing Rosemary flourishes twice in a year, once in the Spring, and once in Autumn, honey of Rosemary-flowers may also be confected twice annually, at the aforesaid times, when its flower is fresh and fragrant: for when it is dry, it is almost inodorate and useless.

It is cephalical and nerval; * 1.59 it is a special ingredient in Glysters prescribed to the Lethargie, Apoplexy, and affections of the head:

it corrects the parts distempered by cold with its calour, and dis∣sipates flatuosity.

CHAP. 4. Mel Mercuriale; or, Honey of Mercury.

℞ of the Juyce of Mercury lb iij. the best honey lb iiij. mingle them, and after elixation, despume them, and so preserve them for use.

The COMMENTARY.

They measure not honey all in the same quantity, some adding more of the succe, and less of honey; others on the contrary; and many a like weight of both.

We judge the honey to be more praepotent, when it is made of the succe, and of leaves or flowers macerated, though its quantity exceed the succes. It is sometimes made onely of the decoction of the leaves; but this way I cannot approve of.

It may be equally confected of the succe of the Male as the Fe∣male Mercury; for both have affine faculties, and convenient for this confection.

To the male Mercury they referre Dogs Colewort; but this ho∣ney may not be confected thereof: it should be made betwixt the middle of the Spring, and end of Summer; for then Plants are more succulent, and their qualities more efficacious.

Honey of Mercury serves scarce to any other use, * 1.60 save to ingrede Glysters, to make them more absterfive and purgative.

CHAP. 5. Mel Passulatum; or, Honey of Raisins.

℞ of Raisins purged from the stones lb ij. infuse them 24 hours in lb. vj. of hot water, either fountain or pluvial; afterwards boyl them, till half be consumed; strain it with a strong expression; and to lb iij. of the aforesaid Colature, adde lb ij. of the best honey, which boyl up to a liquid Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Some have described two Receipts, the one with, the other with∣out honey; for it may admit of honey, though its Inventor Mat∣thaeus describes it without the intervent of honey: Whether way soever it be made, it is very grateful to the palate, and bechical, and therefore justly ingredes the composition of some Eclegms.

There are other Medicinal honeys; as, the honey of Myrtle, of Squills, of Anacardium, and that of Myrobolambs; but they be∣ing

of rare or no use in Medicine, are seldome made.

We have omitted the honey of Anacardium, for many causes: First, because the fruits whereof it is confected, are exotical, and very seldome brought to us: Secondly, because they are indued with a deletery faculty, or intemperate excessively: Thirdly, because of the ambiguity of Authors about its preparation; for some one∣ly fervefie the decoction of Anacardia with honey, till it acquire a just spissitude; others bray them, and macerate them seven dayes in Vinegar, then coct them to the half, and afterwards coct them with honey into a Syrupe: others onely bray and boyl the fruits in water till it be red; collecting the innatant spume like Mellago, which they keep for honey of Anacardium. Lastly, I would not have honey of Anacardium confected, because its faculties are ei∣ther noxious or useless, and inconvenient either to preserve or resar∣ciate sanity.

SECT. V. Of Rob or Sape, or Robub.

THe succes of Plants are conserved for future uses, either by the ad∣mixtion of something; as Honey or Sugar, in confecting Syrupes; or by some change wrought in them by Artifice; as Rob, that is, Sape, or cocted Wine; or Robub, that is, the succe of any Plant incrassated by the beat of the Sun, or of fire. Rob simply, by a certain Antonomasia, denotes Sape, or sweet new Wine, inspissated by coction; but in conjunction with an∣other word, it signifies the Sape of that same, as Rob of Berberries.

CHAP. 1. Rob, seu Sapa; or, Rob, or Sape.

℞ of Wine newly pressed from white Grapes lb xij. boyl it upon a gentle fire, till onely four pintes remain, or so long till it attains to the con∣sistency of honey, which preserve in a convenient vessel.

The COMMENTARY.

Sape is made three wayes: for women make Sape of all kindes of Grapes injected into their Kettles, and cocted without water, and expressed and inspissated into the consistence of honey; and they call it Resinetum, as if they would say, Racematum, that is, con∣dited of bunches of Grapes.

Apothecaries also have their way of confecting it, but better; for they take new Wine, expressed out of white, mature, and selected

Grapes, and coct it to the absumption of two of its parts; the third that remains, hath the spissitude of honey, which is the Pharmaco∣polists Rob, or Sape; but is now seldome kept, being now seldome used.

Cooks also have their Sape, made of new sweet Wine, cocted to the consistence of honey, which they use to sawces: they use also cocted wine, called Defrutum, which being elixated onely to the thirds, and despumed, remains still liquid.

Sape is chiefly commended to the diseases of the Mouth: * 1.61 for it doth not onely astringe, roborate, and cohibit the motion of the fluent matter; but also absterge and digest it, when delabed. But we have treated of Sapes more largely in our Institutions (Cap. 6. Lib. 3.

CHAP. 2. Rob Ribes; or, Rob of Currans.

℞ of the Juyce of Red-Currans lb ix. boyl it till the third part be con∣sumed; then let it settle, and when 'tis clear, pour it off; which boy upon a gentle fire, to the consistency of Honey.

The COMMENTARY.

This is the simple Sape of Ribes, in reference to the more com∣pound; whereunto, half as much sugar accedes: but it is most usually confected according to the prescribed form.

It should be made in June, for then all the Ribes are red ripe, and succulent; and they then brayed, and expressed, emit much succe.

Rob of Ribes is indued with many qualities; * 1.62 for it refrigerates, astringes, roborates, and recreates the heart: therefore it is very fit to alter a hot distemper, to roborate imbecile parts, to propugn heart-aches, and help such as vomit: for by its clement astringence, and delectable acidity, it helps and deligh•••• all parts it attinges.

Rob of Berberries may be made after the same manner; or thus:

CHAP. 3. Rob Berberis; or, Rob of Berberries.

℞ of the Juyce of Berberries well strained lb viij. boyl it in an earthen Pan, upon a gentle fire, till it acquires the consistency of honey.

The COMMENTARY.

Rob of Berberry may be very well made after the same manner with Rob of Ribes; for as the fruits are affine in colour, magnitude and faculties; so also are their succes alike confected.

It refrigerates, astringes, * 1.63 quenches thirst either arising from the heat of the ventricle, and other intrails, or a dry distemper: it helps such as labour under the disease of Choler, or consumption of the Liver, or the Dysentery, or the frequent proritation of the Belly.

CHAP. 4. Rob de Cornis; or, Rob of the fruit of the Cornel-tree.

℞ of the Juyce of Cornel-berries purged from its settlements lb ix. boyl it upon a gentle fire, till six pintes be consumed; and what remains, repose in a glass or pot for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

Some adde Sugar to it, and make it Gelatina; but it is less effica∣cious, by how much more suave: and it is better to make simple Sape, and not to condite it with Sugar, that its faculties may not be broken, but whole. But seeing we have many astrictive and re∣frigerative syrupes, as syrupes of dry Roses, Quinces, Myrtle, and the like, we seldome use this Rob, which is most commended for its astrictive faculty; and thence was wont to be prescribed to stay the Belly-flux, Dysentery, and the Cholick, Choler, and Vomitings.

CHAP. 5. Rob Citoniorum; or, Rob of Quinces.

℞ of the Juyce of Quinces clarified lb ix. boyl it till two parts of it be consumed, or so long till it acquires the spissitude of Honey.

The COMMENTARY.

That their succe may be well depurated, it should first be calified; then resided, that it may be clear; then it should be cocted on a slow fire, for so it will acquire an idoneous spissitude.

Rob of Quinces is astrictive and roborative: * 1.64 whence it stayes the liquid Belly, roborates the stomack, conduces to the cholerick dis∣ease, retains the Haemorrhoids, and all Belly-fluxes.

The Ancients made their Robub of many other fruits, which they often used; but the later Age had rather make Syrupes and Con∣serves thereof.

SECT. VI. Of Conserves.

THe parts of many Plants are condited, for their better conservation and delightful use; and hence by Pharmacopolists called Conserves: where∣of we purpose briefly (as our Method leads us) to treat in this Section; and he that knows how to condite the fruits and flowers of any Plant with Honey or Sugar, or both, he may by the same Art condite the fruits and flowers of all Plants, except some few, which require longer coction, or else shorter then ordinary. But every young Artist knows how to intend or remit calour, to give shorter or longer coction, as the nature of the thing to be condited requires.

CHAP. 1. Conserva Violarum; or, Conserve of Violets.

℞ of the flowers of Violets pick'd clean, and in a stone-Morter beaten very fine lb j. of the whitest Sugar lb ij. which beat together, till it becomes a perfect paste, which preserve in a pot.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue would have the Violets a little dryed; but they had better keep their native humidity: for therein is their vertue posited; which being vanished, the flowers cannot easily be purged from their cauls and herbaceous parts, but they will be much diminished: and yet the cleansed flower should be onely assumed for this confection, both that its faculties may be better, and its colour more violaceous.

The Violets should be brayed very small, that no asperity may be found therein; then twice their quantity of Sugar must be added to them; then they must be again contunded together, till the mass be soft, and fit to be conserved in an idoneous vessel. Mesue addes thrice their quantity of Sugar; and then the Conserve is sweeter, but not so valid.

Conserve of Violets allayes the heat of Choler, * 1.65 extinguishes the ardour of other humours, quenches thirst, subduces the Belly, di∣lates and levifies the jaws and asper artery, and cures all pectoral affections.

CHAP. 2. Conserva Rosarum; or, Conserve of Roses.

℞ of red Rose-buds purged from their whites lb j. beat them with a

wooden Pestel, in a stone Morter, till they become a paste; then adde of the best Sugar lb iij. which beat, with the Roses, till they are per∣fectly mingled; and after a little insolation, put it up for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue calls that the Sugar, which we call the Conserve of Roses; and he takes red, white, and all Roses dryed in a shade, without dif∣ference, with thrice as much Sugar, whereof he makes his Sugar of Roses; which after three moneths space he exposes to the Sun: we take only red Roses, not dryed, but brayed, and mixed with thrice as much Sugar: some put onely twice as much Sugar to it, and so make the Conserve less suave, but more efficacious.

We call that Sugar of Rose-water, which some call Sugar of Roses, solved in equal measure, and cocted to the consistence of a solid Electuary: of which in its place.

But our Conserves of Roses are not alwayes alike; but, some are more liquid and soft, which are made as we before descri∣bed them, of new flowers brayed and mixed with Sugar; others more solid, which are made of the powder of dry Roses, with eight or ten times as much Sugar, diluted in Rose-water, and cocted to the consistence of a solid Electuary: wherewithall, a little succe of Sorrel or Lemmons is mixed, which is made into red paste; out of which, oblong morsels, small at each end, and crasser in the mid∣dle, are formed. The Conserves thus confected, at Agendicum, a City in the Province of Brya, are much commended.

Conserve of Roses is cephalical and cordial: for, * 1.66 it roborates the head and intrails, allayes their heat, and cohibits fluxions.

CHAP. 3. Conserva Buglossi; or, Conserve of Bugloss.

℞ of the picked flowers of Bugloss lb j. beat them in a Marble Morter very well; to which, adde of the finest Sugar, lb ij. beat them well together: which, after a convenient insolation, repose in a fit vessel.

The COMMENTARY.

I can scarce assent to their opinion, who would have Buglosses flowers, whose vertue is superficial, and easily dissipable, dryed be∣fore triture and mixtion; for they are better, by how much they are newer, and more humid: but if they lose their native humidi∣ty, they lose their efficacy; for they are no whit more humid, then exigence requires. Moreover, the more aqueous and excrementitious part of newly confected Conserve, is dissipated by insolation; but if they be wet with dew or rain, they should be dryed in a shade, rather then in the Sun, before their confecture.

Conserve of Bugloss exhilarates the vital parts, * 1.67 recreates the heart, helps the Melancholical, conduces to such as labour in the Palsey and Cough.

CHAP. 4. Conserva Borraginis; or, Conserve of Borrage.

℞ of the fresh flowers of Borrage well picked lb ss. of the whitest Su∣gar lb j. ss. beat them in a stone-Morter, with a Box-Pestel, till it comes to a perfect Conserve.

The COMMENTARY.

First the flowers must be brayed by themselves, till they be levi∣gated; then the Sugar: then must they be mixed in triture, and made into a soft mass, which reconded in an idoneous vessel, must be insolated, and preserved. The Arabians call it Zuccarum alchibil, that is, Sugar of Borrages; the later age calls it, Conserve of Bor∣rage-flowers.

It is given to the same affections with Conserve of Bugloss, * 1.68 for both recreate the heart and vital spirits, conduce to melancholical passions: and this, by a peculiar faculty, moves womens fluors, according to Holerius.

CHAP. 5. Conserva Nenupharis; or, Conserve of Water-Lillies.

℞ of the flowers of Water-Lillies purged from their herbaceous parts, and dryed a whole day in the shade lb ss. beat them very well with lb j. ss. of white Sugar, till they come to a perfect Conserve.

The COMMENTARY.

The flowers of Water-Lillies being more crass and humid, may be a little aerified; then contunded, that they may be levigated; af∣terwards the sugar must be added, brayed, subacted, and concorpo∣rated with the tunded flowers: which mass well subacted, must be reposed in a potters vessel; white flowers must be selected, whose her∣baceous, green, and flave part also, which is in the middle of the flower, should be abjected. The luteous Water-Lilly neither in∣gredes this Conserve, nor the Syrupe before-described, because the white one is better, and more frequent: they should likewise grow in limpid and clear water; others are worse.

Conserve of Water-Lilly allayes the heat of the intrails, * 1.69 quen∣ches thirst, refrigerates the brain, conciliates sleep, and is good for such as are severish.

CHAP. 6. Conserva Anthos; or, Conserve of Rosemary-flowers.

℞ of the finest flowers of Rosemary very small beaten lb ss. of the whitest Sugar lb j. ss. mix them well together, with a Box Pestel, till they become a fine paste, which keep in a Gally-pot well luted.

The COMMENTARY.

The Rosemary-flower being of it self dry, should not be exposed to the Sun before triture, nor dryed: but this, and all calid and dryer flowers, require more of sugar, not for their conservation, but more suavity; and they need not so much insolation.

This Conserve is of much use in Medicine: * 1.70 for it is very cepha∣lical and nerval, roborates the brain, and propugns all its affecti∣ons: it successfully helps or cures the Epilepsie, Apoplexy, Lethargy, Palsey, and Trembling.

CHAP. 7. Conserva Betonicae; or, Conserve of Betony.

℞ of the flowers of Betony fresh, and finely picked lb j. white Sugar lb iij. beat them according to Art into a Conserve.

The COMMENTARY.

All do not make this Conserve after the same manner; for some confect it according to the form prescribed; others coct Sugar in the water of Betony, to the consistence of a solid Electuary; then mix it with brayed flowers, and make a Conserve of most lauda∣ble sapour and faculties: it may well be made either way.

Conserve of Betony, whether assumed or adhibited, * 1.71 roborates the head, benefits the ventricle, obtunds poysons, and propugns all affections of the brain.

CHAP. 8. Conserva Salviae, Melissae, Stoechados; or, Conserve of Sage, Balm, and Stoechados.

℞ of the flowers of Sage, or Balm, or Stoechados lb ss. white Sugar lb s first beat the flowers very small, afterwards the Sugar, beating them well together, till it becomes a soft mass.

The COMMENTARY.

The plenty of Medicinal flowers, causes plenty of Conserves; but Stoechados being very rare, and Balm emitting patulous flowers, few Conserves, if any, are confected of them: but Sage is so fre∣quent, and endowed with so many eximious qualities, that a most commendable Conserve, * 1.72 for many uses, is made thereof; for by a special faculty, it roborates the Brain and Nerves, conduces much to trembling, stupour, palsey, and affections of the Brain. That which is made of Balm, gently helps the Memory: That which is made of the flowers called Stoechados, frees the Liver from obstru∣ctions, and recreates the Brain.

Many Pharmacopolists, it may be, have more Conserves condited of flowers, and many fewer; and if any one be not content with these, he hath liberty to make Conserves of Poeony, Tamarisks, Primrose, and Succory, Some make Conserve of Mallows flowers, which much conduces to the Stone, and vices in the Reins; for it le∣niates, allayes heat, diduces the passages, and expels sand from the Kidneys.

SECT. VII. Of Fruits and other parts of Plants Condited.

FRuits to be condited, must not undergo triture, like flowers, but are con∣dited either whole, if small, as Ribes and Berberries; or somewhat grea∣ter, as Cherries; or else cut into slices, as Quinces. Roots also purged and sliced, are condited: Of all which Conditures we shall briefly dissert in this Section.

CHAP. 3. Cerasa condita; or, Condited Cherries.

℞ of Cherries ripe, and purged from their pedicles lb ij. white Sugar lb j. boyl them first upon a clear, then upon a gentle fire (casting off the scum as it arises) till their Juyce and the Sugar becomes a perfect Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

There are many kindes of Cherries, whereof those onely are se∣lected for conditure, which are very red, dulcoacid, very succulent,

and inhaere upon a short pedicle; as also, such as are obscurely red. Now that they may be rightly condited, a little water must be put to them, for so the Sugar will more easily liquefie, and the Cher∣ries be sooner cocted. Now they are perfectly cocted, when a drop of their Syrupe effunded upon a Marble, diffuses not; and then they should be removed from the fire; and when they grow cold, be reposed in idoneous vessels for preservation.

Condite Cherries, because of their suavity and salubrity, * 1.73 are ex∣hibited to the sick of any disease, and at any time.

CHAP. 2. Ribes & Berberis condita; or, Condited Ribes and Berberries.

℞ of red Currans, or Berberries lb j. ss. Sugar lb j. boyl them according to Art with a little water, till their humidity have acquired the con∣sistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Of the succe of these fruits, inspissated by heat, we have a Sape; of the same, and sugar duly cocted, a Syrupe also: Both which are eximious, in restoring sanity to the diseased, as we have above hint∣ed. These same fruits are also used for Junkets; and to that end integrally condited, that they may be kept while winter, and exhi∣bited to the diseased, to whom they are not onely pleasant, but con∣ducible. They usually mix some water to their conditure; but their own succe would do better in its stead: for so the conditure would be more acid, and sweet also, if an equal weight of fruits and sugar were conjoyned.

CHAP. 3. Pyra condita; or, Condited Pears.

℞ of Pears decocticated, and of the whitest Sugar, of each lb ij. boyl them upon a gentle fire, till the Pears become soft, and the liquor of the consistency of a Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

Other Pears may be so condited, as those they call Rousselets, and others whose flesh is solid. Some stick them with Cloves, that they may be more grateful to the palate: for so they attain an aroma∣tical odour and sapour with sweetness. Apples having a sorter sub∣stance, which by coction would be like a Pultess, are not condited whole, but cut into slices; and artificially cocted with Sugar, are made into a certain Paste, which sected into morsels, is studiously dryed and kept.

CHAP. 4. Nuces condita; or, Condited Nuts.

℞ of Nuts both young and green, n.l. purged from their outward Cor∣tex, infuse them nine or ten dayes in warm water daily changed; then boyl them, till they grow soft, which spread one by one upon a cloth that they may dry, aromatize them with Cloves and Cinamon, and afterwards with an equal quantity of Sugar, to the weight of the Nuts, boyling them gently (adding thereunto a little water) to a just consistence.

The COMMENTARY.

Many care not for condite Nuts, because they grow black: which ingrateful colour, that it may be hindred, let the Nuts be first coct∣ed, then sticked with Aromata, and reconded in a vessel; upon which superfuse Syrupe perfectly cocted, while it is hot: if on the follow∣ing dayes the Syrupe grow crude again, coct it again, and superfuse it; and if yet it appear too fluid, recoct it, that it may acquire a le∣gitimate consistence, for so the condite Nuts will be whiter. They roborate the ventricle, * 1.74 disspate flatuosity, cure the cholick, and help coction.

CHAP. 5. Pruna condita; or, Condited Plums.

℞ of Plums not perfectly ripe, of Loaf-sugar, of each lb j. clear water lb ss. boyl them, till the liquor becomes a perfect Syrupe.

The COMMENTARY.

There is every-where great plenty and variety of Plums, whereof Damascens, white, black, red, and violaceous ones, are very expetible: but most of all, the Imperial Plums; which, when mature, are most grateful.

And these also, like other fruits, are condited for better preserva∣tion: and first they are decorticated, and presently cast into water, lest they should grow flave or black; and then they are cocted, till the syrupe of their succe, mixed with sugar, be of a legitimate con∣sistence.

Thus may Peaches and ripe Apples be condited.

The Pills of Oranges and Lemmons, partly because of their hardness, and partly of their insuavity, are once or twice macerated in warm water before conditure; into which water at the first time, some inject a little bundle of ashes; at the second time, they are

cocted in simple water, with an equal weight of sugar, and so con∣served in their syrupe perfectly cocted.

But for such as delight onely in dry confectures, they may be thus made: The Pills thus condited, must be taken; their syrupe wherewith they are madid, either gently deterged with a cloth, or lightly washed off with water. The Pills thus wiped and exsicca∣ted, must be immerged in other sugar, cocted to the consistence of a solid Electuary, and again cocted therein a little; then amoved, and exsiccated in the sun, Hypocauste, or other hot place, and then kept. But this curious Art of conditing Fruits, appertains rather to Confectioners then Apothecaries.

CHAP. 6. Citonia condita; or, Condited Quinces.

℞ of Quinces decorticated, cut in five or six parts, purged from their membranes and seeds, n.x. or xij. of Sugar the like weight: boyl them with a little water according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

Quinces, because of their solidity, endure much coction; and therefore they require more water. They should be cocted, not onely till they be soft, but till their Syrupe be crasser; wherein they must be kept whole, and not discepted, nor reducted to a Pultess.

Quinces may be condited another way; to wit, cocted with Sugar: and in cocting agitated, that they may acquire the con∣sistence of a Pultess; and then they must be removed, and reposed in ligneous Boxes: if the weight of these Quinces and Sugar be equal, the conditure will be more s••ave, but less astrictive.

There is yet another conditure more red and lucid, made onely of the decoction of the Pills and seeds of Quinces, with an equal weight of Sugar, cocted to the consistence of a Syrupe, and kept in Boxes of Pine-wood: if in cocting, the vessel be shut and covered which contains them, the conditure will be more red; which co∣lour is most expetible in all conditures of Quinces. Some adde the s••••ce of Quinces thereto, and call it clear Cidoniat.

There is also a Conserve made of Quinces, but after another manner: for their succe is elicited, cocted and strained, and twice as much sugar added to the colature, and cocted to the consistence of an Electuary; the succe is in equal weight mixed with sugar, and so the Conserve made of a red colour, grateful sapour, and eximi∣ous faculties.

The Conditure of Leaves. CHAP. 7. Folia Adianti condita; or, The condite Leaves of Venus-hair.

℞ of white Maiden-hair picked from its stalks lb j. good Sugar lb ij. beat them severally, afterwards together, till they become a perfect Conserve.

The COMMENTARY.

Leaves are seldome condited, seeing, when dry, we can take their decoctions, and make Syrupes of them, indued with their facul∣ties; or keep them dry, some for a whole year without damage: yet some are so volatile, that they scarce retain any thing of their genuine quality when dryed; as true Maidens-hair, which for its eximious faculties, is sought by exotical Merchants, and carried in form of a Conserve, made as before; after which manner, other dry leaves may be condited: but humid ones thus:

CHAP. 8. Folia Tussilaginis condita; or, The condite Leaves of Collsfoot.

℞ of the Juyce of the leaves of Coltsfoot lb j. Sugar lb ij. boyl then to the consistency of an Electuary; to which, whilest hot, adde of green Coltsfoot finely beaten, as much as you see good, and make thereof a Conserve.

The COMMENTARY.

In the confecture of this Conserve, the quantity of the leaves to be brayed, is not defined; some taking more, others less; a third part, or at most half as much sugar, is enough. But Conserves thus made, should be long insolated, and frequently agitated with a Ru∣dicle, that they may califie all over, and their aqueous humidity be quite dissipated, wherewith they abound. The conditures of other leaves may be thus confected.

The conditure of these leaves help the Cough, * 1.75 Lungs, and hinder the frequent delapse of humours from the Brain, to the breast and vitals.

The Conditure of Stalks. CHAP. 9. Caules Lactucae conditae; or, The condite Stalks of Lettices.

℞ of the stalks of Lettices purged from the exteriour skin or cortex lb j. Boyl them in water till they wax soft; afterwards dry them upon a cloth; then take the like weight of Sugar, and with a sufficient quantity of water, boyl them, till the liquor become a crass Syrupe: which re∣pose in a sit vessel.

If you desire them of a dryer form, let them be wiped and dryed; and then in Sugar boyled to the height of an Electuary, let them a little fervesie; afterwards taken out and dryed.

The COMMENTARY.

Very few Plants Cauls are condited, either because of their hard∣ness, or insuavity, or other useless qualities: But such as have crassi∣tude, sweetness, tenerity, and excellency of faculties, may rightly be condited; as the cauls of Lettice and Artichock: Of both which cauls, Confectioners used to make dry confectures, after the manner prescribed.

They quench thirst, allay the heat of the stomack and liver. * 1.76

CHAP. 10. Caules Cynarae conditi; or, The condited Stalks of Artichocks.

℞ of the stalks of Artichocks, the exteriour pellicle taken off, and purged from its fibres lb j. boyl them in water, till they grow soft; after∣wards let them be dryed upon a cloth; then with the like weight of Su∣gar, and a sufficient quantity of water, boyled to the body of a crass Syrupe: repose the confecture in a fit vessel; which if required more dry, prepare them as afore-described.

The COMMENTARY.

The white stalks of Artichocks should be desumed, before they erupt out of the earth: they are used all winter in Paris, where they much abound; which some, upon no grounds, use, to stimulate Ve∣nery: for they afford little of genital matter, or flatulent spirits to the body, but much Melancholical succe.

The cauls of the vulgar, not of the Spanish Artichock, should be selected, for that is a kinde of Carduus; as both of them seem to be depromed from that stock; onely one of them hath by culture at∣tained a more fair aspect, and gracious sapour.

They are more celebrated for Junkets for the whole, then Diet for the sick.

Condited Roots. CHAP. 11. Radix Poeoniae condita; or, The condited Root of Poeony.

℞ of the Roots of Poeony washed and purged lb ij. boyl them in water, till they grow soft; then repose them to dry in a shade, that their humidity may be evaporated: then boyl them again with the like weight of Su∣gar, with a little portion of the aforesaid decoction, to the body of an Electuary; which take from the fire, and repose in a vessel for use.

The COMMENTARY.

Some Roots should be condited onely in the Spring, before their succe be immitted into their branches, boughs and leaves; others in Autumn, when Plants demit their leaves; for then much of the Plants vertue goes into the Roots, and then the humour is more throughly cocted, then at other times: others may be condited, both in the Spring, Summer, and Autumn, being alwayes succulent, whose cauls are either not erupted, or grown up, or else dryed: They must then be collected in that feason, wherein their vertue is most prea∣lent; as the Roots of Ragwort and Rainbow in the Spring; the Root of Poeony in August, according to Sylvius, or rather in March; the Roots of Enula, Bryony, and Maidens-grass, in Autumn: as we have shewed at large in our Institutions (Cap. 13. Lib. 1.)

Some of them are amare, sharp, and insuave; which before their conditure, should be often macerated in water: others are grate∣ful; which being one day infused in warm water, may in the same or another be cocted forthwith; as the Roots of Poeony, which may be we•• condited, according to this prescribed form; or some other of the like sort when they are cocted, and the Sugar cocted like a soft Electuary affunded upon them: if they become crude, the liquor must be again cocted, and that again repeated, till they cease from their crudity.

These condited, are of great potency to arceate and cure the Epi∣lepsie, if they be moderately taken in the morning fasting, and at the hour of sleep.

CHAP. 12. Radices Eryngiorum conditae; or, The condited Roots of S••••-holly.

℞ of the Roots of Sea-holly cut sloping, and purged from its inward

pith lb j. boyl them in water, till they become soft: dry them in a shade: * 1.77 then let Sugar be dissolved in the same decoction, and boyled to the spissitude of an Electuary: to which adde the Roots, and again gently cocted, that their aqueous humidity may be dissipated 〈◊〉〈◊〉 epose them af∣terward 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gally pot, and preserved.

The COMMENTARY.

The Roots of Sea-holly being sweet, needs undergo but one ma∣teration before conditure; and then be cocted in the same water, ••ill they be soft; then condited with Sugar, as the form shews. Mesue addes some Aromata's, as Cinamon, and Ginger, wherewith be would have the Roots stuck; and he boyls them with a portion of Honey and Sugar; or else Honey onely, thrice the quantity of the Roots. But the form I have exhibited, is more usual, and better.

We everywhere in the Aarabian writings, meet with Secacul, which is hitherto taken for Sea-holly: But its description given by Avicenna and Serapio, shew, that it is another Plant, dissimilar in face, if not faculties: It grows in India; and is there condited, and is kept, and given for venereous matters; as also our Sea-holly, which some do perperously call Secacul, though their vertues be af∣••••••e; for both of them are ••or and moist, in the end of the first, and beginning of the second degree: They move Venery.

Therefore they do right, who for defect of the Indian Secacul, sub∣stiture our Sea-holly: and let such cease to be angry at this substitu∣tion, who must have something of that nature, and cannot get the true Secacul.

Sea-holly is of the kinde of aculeated Plants, whose leaves are tender, not spinous and rigid, and fit for cibaries. Dioscorides saith, they are broad asperated about their ambient, aromatical to the gust, and when perfectly grown aculeated with many horrid spines. Its heads also are circumvalled with aoute spines; its roots long, black without white within, tender, sweet, and grateful to the gust. It is more largely described in our first Book of Medicinal Matter.

Its Root condited, no••••shes, augments seed, * 1.78 excites venery moves urine, and expels the sand of the Reins and Bladder.

CHAP. 13. Radices Symphiti condita; or, The condite Roots of Comfrey.

℞ of the roots of the greater Comfrer slieed lb j. macerate and boyl them in a sufficent quantity of water, till they become soft; dry them in a shade for a whole day: Let them Sugar be put to the decoction, and boyled to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 situde of an Electuary; to which adde the roots, and again let them be boyled, till the aqueous superfluity be evaporated; and when they begin to be condited, repose them in a vessel for use.

The COMMENTARY.

The roots of Comfrey, as also many other, which by cocture be∣come easily soft, are rightly condited after this prescript: yet some had rather prepare and condite them thus; First they coct the wash∣ed and cleansed roots; then they bray them; then they transmit th•••• through a fieve; then put twice their quantity of Sugar to them, and coct them to the consistence of an Electuary; then they recalifie them, and recond the conditure in Boxes. And thus they do with all other crasser roots: for th•••• they may be better p••r∣ged from their fibres, and more perfectly confected in every part.

They stay the running of blood from any part, * 1.79 cohibit the de∣lapse of homours, and agglutinate wounds in the internals.

CHAP. 14. Radices En•••••• conditae; or, The condited roots of En••••a-campane.

℞ of the roots of En••••a-campane washed, purged and sliced lb ij. infuse them in warm water for the space of four dayes, the water being daily changed; then boyl them, till they grow tender; then dry them in a shade: afterwards take the like weight of S••gar, which dissolve in the aforesaid decoction, and boyl it up to the consistency of an Electuary; then adde the aforesaid roots, and coct them together gently: which afterwards repose in boxes.

The COMMENTARY.

The roots of Enula must be macerated more or less, as their in∣suavity requires: and if it may be emended by two or three mace∣rations, they need no longer immersion, lest their whole vertue be deposed in the water.

They roborate the stomack, * 1.80 recreate the heart, discuss fla••••lenty, help concoction, resist poysons, and pesti••ent vi••ul•••••• diseases.

CHAP. 15. Radices Satyrii conditae; or, The condite roots of Satyrion.

℞ of Satyrion roots washed and picked lb j. boyl them in water, till they become tender; then let them be dryed in the shade, covering them with a cloth: when they are dryed, ningle them with the like preportion of Sugar, dissolved in the abovesaid decoction, and ••oyled to a good con∣sistence; which coct a little, that the humidity of the water may be dis∣sipated.

The COMMENTARY.

The whole roots of Satyrion should be condited: for their mole hinders not, but that sugar may pervade their whole substance. We have adjoyned no Aromata's, that they may be more safely exhi∣bited to such as labour under Hectick Fevers: they are indued with like faculties with Diasatyrium, but more imbecilely, as we shall shew in its due place.

Many other roots are condited after the same manner with these; which for brevities sake I omit. We have no fresh Ginger, but it comes all condited to us from Bengala, a countrey in India.

SECT. VIII. Of Eclegms that must be preserved in Pharmacopolies.

EClegms do by good right challenge place amongst the Preparative Medi∣caments; for they prepare the humours contained in the breast for ex∣pulsion, by vomit, or impact them into another place for eduction, by stool. For seeing they are either acid, or sweet, they incide viscid humours, and make them easie to be separated from the parts whereunto they adhere. The sweet ones concoct the same, and make them sit for exclusion by spittle: If they be of a mixt sapour, and dulcoacid, they both attenuate and concoct: But th••se that the Ancients kept in their Shops, are now almost out of use. And now when some prave affection of the highest region of the Breast, or Asper Artery, requires a Lohoch or Eclegm, they are quickly made for present use, being both for vertue and sapour at the best. So that the Ancients Eclegms, as they are less grateful, so they seem to be less useful. Yet lest our Shop should be quite void of them, we shall select a few, of more easie confecture and particular use: As,

CHAP. 1. Eclegma Scilliticum; or, Eclegm of Squills. D. Mes.

℞ of the Juyce of Squills, Honey despumed, of each lb ij. boyl them to∣gether according to Art, to the consistency of Honey.

The COMMENTARY.

This Eclegm is most easie to confect, and most simple, consisting onely of the same things, that make up Honey of Squills; onely they differ in preparation and proportion: For in Honey of Squills, the

leaves are confusedly insolated with the Honey in a fit vessel, and strained when use calls for it: But in the Eclegm of Squills, onely their succe is cocted with Honey, above the consistence of a Syrupe.

Eclegms of Squills potently incide and prepare for expulsion, * 1.81 crass and viscid humours, impacted in the spirators. They very much help such as breath with difficulty, or have much of viscid Phlegm in their Lungs, or highest region of the Breast.

CHAP. 2. Eclegma de Caulibus; or, Eclegm of Colewort. D. Gord.

℞ of the Juyce of Coleworts lb j. boyl it a little, and scum it; after∣wards adde Saffron ʒ iij. Sugar and Honey, of each lb ss. boyl them according to Art, to the consistence of a Linctus.

The COMMENTARY.

The succe of Garden-Cauls must first be educed, then depurated by the Sun or fire; then Honey or Sugar added to it, and they per∣fectly cocted; then must well-pulverated Saffron be mixed there∣with; or, as Gordi••nus, its Author would have it, injected therein 〈◊〉〈◊〉, while cocting, because he will have it tend to its spissitude: but it is credible, he means by his Electuary, a Lohoch, for the cure of dif∣ficulty of breathing. But the leaves of red Cauls should be select∣ed, when the diseases of the highest part of the Breast are respect∣ed, or the Belly to be moved.

Lonoch of cauls cures difficulty of breathing, * 1.82 inveterate coughs; cocts, moves, and excludes spittle.

CHAP. 3. Eclegma de Pulmone Vulpis; or, Eclegm of Foxes Lungs. D. Mes.

℞ of Fox Lungs prepared and dryed, of the Juyce of Liquorice, white Maiden-hair, sweet Fennel-seeds, Anise-seeds, of each equal parts: make it into a Lohoch, with Syrupe of Red-roses or Myrtles.

The COMMENTARY.

Some confect it with simple Hydrosa charum, that is, water and sugar; others with sugar solved, and cocted in Saxifrage water; and some that would have it more roborative, with Rob, or inspis∣sated succe of Myrtle, as Mesue advises. We confect it with syrupe of Roses, or Alexanders syrupe; for so it is more grateful, then those with Rob of Myrtle, and Hydrosacharum: yea, its faculty ro∣borates in a mean betwixt them.

But if it be kept for a Roborative, it may be rightly confected with syrupe of Myrtle: but Pharmacopolists do not now preserve it.

Foxes Lungs should, if possible, be onely taken by such as are young, sound, and given to hunting: they must be washed in wa∣ter, incided, according to the vessels whereto they adhere, and wherein they are suspended; their blood must be expressed; then moderately washed in white-wine, imposed in a pot, dryed in an Oven pretty hot, and kept.

When use calls for them, a portion of them must be levigated very small, and mixed with some idoneous liquor, as in this Eclegm, with the said Syrupe, and other pulverated Medicaments.

Mesue describes this Lonoch of Foxes Lungs to difficult breathers; * 1.83 but some would rather bray the Lung, and exhibit it mixed with Ju∣lep of Roses; others, upon good grounds, prefer the Lungs of other wholesome Animals, as Hogs, Rams, or Calves Lungs, for the easure of such as are troubled with difficulty of breathing: for the diseased may eat these with more delight and salubrity, to the quan∣tity of two or more ounces; and so better consult the sanity of his Lungs, then if he uses an ounce of this Eclegm, wherein there is scarce a scruple of Foxes Lungs. Yet this should be kept in Phar∣macopolies, because it is very bechical, and may be successfully used by such as are tabid.

CHAP. 4. Eclegma sanum & expertum; or, A sound and expe∣rienced Lohoch. D. Mes.

℞ of Raisins stoned, Figs, Dates, of each n. xij. Jujubees, Sebestens, of each xxx. Foenugreek-seed ʒ v. Linseed, Anise-seed, sweet Fennel-seed, dryed Hyssop, Calamint, the roots of Orris, Liquorice, Cina∣mon, of each ℥ ss. Maiden-hair m.j. boyl them all in four pintes of water, till half be consumed: to the Calature, adde Penidees lb ij. boyl it again to the crassitude of Honey; then adde these following powders, and pastes, Pine-kernels ʒ v. blanched Almonds, Starch, of each ʒ iij. Liquorice, Gumme-Thraganth, Arabick, of each ℥ ij. ss. Orris ℥ ss. Let all these be exactly mingled, and beaten into a Lohoch.

The COMMENTARY.

That this Eclegm may be well confected, the root of Orris should be cut into short pieces, and be first cocted in limpid water by half a quarter of an hour; then must the seeds be injected; then the fruits and leaves; last the Liquorice and Cinamon: the pow∣ders being levigated, a part must be confusedly mixed, and conjected into the colature, duly cocted with Penidees; that of these united and agitated with a Pestel, may arise an Eclegm, which from its effect is called Sound and Expert: for it contains many fruits, seeds,

leaves, and some gummes, which commonstrate its eximious facul∣ties; whereunto they adde Amylum, to make it more viscid.

Now Amylum may be made of many cereals; but the best is that, that is made of Wheat five times madefied with water, till it be soft: which done, the water is effused without agitation, lest something that is useful, flow out with it: when it is very soft, and the water effused, it should be calcated with ones feet, and so bro∣ken; then should water be again superfused upon it, and it again calcated, and the enatant bran received into a sieve, and the rest dried in a Basket, and forthwith baked in the sun, and kept. For thus it is grinded without a Mill, and thence called Amylum. It leniates ex∣asperated parts, stays the fluxions of the eyes, and rejections of Blood.

This Eclegm cures the cough, * 1.84 and hoarseness contracted by a cold distemper: it incides, attenuates, and deterges much, and con∣cocts cold humours.

CHAP. 5. Eclegma de Pineis; or, Eclegm of Pine-kernels. D. Mes.

℞ of Pine-kernels cleansed from their skins ʒ xxx. sweet Almonds, Hazel-Nuts, Gumme-Thraganth, Arabick, Liquorice, Juyce of Li∣quorice, white Starch, white Maiden-hair, Orris-root, of each ℥ ss. the Pulp of Dates ʒ xxxv. bitter Almonds, Honey of Raisins, fresh Butter, white Sugar, of each ℥ iiij. Honey, as much as will suffice to make it up according to Art into an Eclegm.

The COMMENTARY.

That this Eclegm may be rightly made, the dry roots must first be brayed apart; then the Maidens-hair, then the fruits, then the gummes and Amylum: but such as may better be incided, as Al∣monds and Filberts, may be cut with a knife. When all are well le∣vigated, Rob or Honey of Raisins must be added; then butter; then an idoneous quantity of the whitest and best Honey, that the Eclegm may be of a legitimate consistence.

It cures inveterate coughs, * 1.85 difficulty of breathing; moves viscid spittle: helps the asperity of the voyce, helps coction and expectora∣tion of humours, and cures such affections of the Lungs and Breast, as arise from the plenty or noxious quality of humours.

Finis Libri Primi.

The Apothecaries Shop, OR, ANTIDOTARY. THE SECOND BOOK. Of most selected and approved Purgative Medicaments.

THE PREFACE.

THe multitude of Compounded Purgatives are almost innumerable, their forms multifarious, and their preparations various. We shall here exhibit the most select, best, and approved; and those either in form of a liquid or solid Electuary, as Opiates or Hierae; or in form of Pills and Trochisks: For Pharmacopolists seldome keep Purgatives in form of Pow∣ders or Potions. We shall adde the manner and reason of their confecting, and the quality of the Confection: But we shall withall omit many Purges described by the Ancients, because their use is not salubre, nor a due order observed in their Composition, as admitting of many noxious, useless, and un∣known Medicaments. We shall also neglect many described and invented by late men; who, being covetous of vain-glory, cognominated some after their own Titles, and from a fictitious effect. We shall (I say) relinquish such, and give onely the more select, approved, and useful. We dissect this Treatise into four Sections: In the first whereof we speak of liquid Electuaries; in the third, of solid ones; in the fourth, of Pills; and in the second, of bitter Confections, which Medicks call Hierae.

CHAP. 1. Diacassia. D. N. Praepos.

℞ of the flowers and leaves of Violets, Mallows, Beets, Pellitory, Roman Wormwood, of each m. ss. boyl in lb iiij. of water, till half be consumed: to the Colature adde of Honey lb j. boyl it to the consistence of a liquid Electuary; then mingle with it Gassia lb j. and so make it into an Electuary, and repose it in a fit vessel.

The COMMENTARY.

All do not make Diacassia alike: for some coct the succes of Plants with honeys to a fit crassitude, and then adject the Cassia; others elixate the Plants, and in the colature dilute Cassia and Ho∣ney; and then fervefie the whole mixture, to the consistence of a liquid Electuary. But that manner wherein the Cassia is so long cocted, is disapproveable; but the other, whereby the Canes where∣in the Cassia is contained, are washed in the strained decoction, and afterwards a pound of honey added, and they cocted to a legitimate spissitude, that by the adjection of a pound of Cassia, they may become an Electuary, is very good.

Some, in stead of honey, mix sugar therewith; others, both: some adde Manna; others, Senny; others, other Medicaments: and so confect various Electuaries of Cassia, whereunto I assent not. For it is enough, that we have Diacassia made according to the pre∣script for Glysters; and if the pith of Cassia must be assumed at the mouth, it may be extracted fresh, and taken alone, or mixed with other Medicaments, as the Medick requires.

But Aegyptian or Oriental Cassia should be selected, which is without redly black, and within full of a fat, medullous, and black matter; which is of force to contemperate heat, wash the Belly, and gently purge the Body; and may thence be securely given to Boyes, Old-men, and pregnant Women: for it subduces the Belly without molestation; but it is thought procurative of flatulency, and therefore many educe its pith in the vapour of cocted Anise or Fennel; others mix some Cinamon with it: and Coraeus gives it with some grains of Berberries, to such as have weak Intestines.

I hear of a new kinde of Cassia brought from Brasile; a half ounce whereof doth more move the Belly, and copiously educe hu∣mours, then a whole ounce of the vulgar and oriental.

Diacassia is a benign Medicament, and purges clemently: it al∣layes the heat of the Mesentery, gently moves the Belly, hu∣mectates its siccity, and by lubrication and detersion, deposes the excrements by stool.

CHAP. 2. Electuarium lenitivum; or, The lenitive Electuary.

℞ of Polypody of the Oak, Senny picked, Raisins stoned, of each ℥ ij. Mercury m.j.ss. Barley, Maiden-hair, Violets, of each m.ss. Juju∣bees, Sebestens, of each num. xx. Prunes stoned, Tamarinds, of each ʒ vj. Liquorice ʒ ss. boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water, till a third part be consumed: to the Colature, adde Pulp of Cassia-Fistu∣la, Tamarinds, Prunes, Loaf-sugar, and Sugar of Violets, of each ℥ vj. Senny powdred ℥ iij. ss. make it into an Electuary according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

The Raisins which ingrede this confection, should be purged from their stones: if white Adiantum, or true Maidens-hair cannot be had, Polytrichum may be substituted in its stead. Conserve of Vio∣lets, or Sugar of Violets, may be mixed at pleasure. He that judges Conserves inept in Electuaries, may adde Anise or sweet Fennel-seed, or a little Cinamon: yet this Electuary hath hitherto been confected without any of them, and the users have not found any molestation from flatulency.

The fruits whose pulps must be educed, must be humectated in a part of the prepared decoction; another part thereof with sugar must be made into a Syrupe, and the pulps with sugar of Violets, mixed with it while hot: then must an ounce and an half, or at least an ounce and three dragms of well-levigated Senny, be added to every pound of the Composition; whereof they say Rhasis is Au∣thor.

This lenitive Electuary, thus cognominated from its effect, * 1.86 levi∣fies, mollifies, and subduces the Belly; educes all obvious, but espe∣cially pituitous and melancholical humours, without molestation: it helps against the Pleurisie, and other pectoral affections.

The Florentine Medicks describe another, by the name of the Magisterial Electuary; which admits of Turpentine, Ginger, and Scammony; which our Shop may well be without.

CHAP. 3. Electuarium Catholicum; or, The Catholical Electuary.

℞ of Polypody of the Oak well bruised lb j. pure water lb ix. boyl them together, till a third part be consumed; and in two parts of the deco∣coction, let there be boyled Sugar lb viij. to which adde pulp of Cassia and Tamarinds, madefied with the other part of the decoction, of the leaves of Senny, of each ℥ viij. of the best Rhabarb, Polypody, sweet Fennel-seeds, Violets, of each ℥ iiij. of the four greater cool seeds, of each ℥ j. Liquorice, Penidees, Sugar-Candy, of each ℥ ss. make into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

That this universal Antidote may be duly confected, many things must be brayed, and prepared apart; and first of all, Polypody, which being twice assumed, must be bifariously prepared. In the first course it must be brayed only pretty grosly; in the second, it must be levigated very small: that which is onely contunded, must be long cocted in the prescribed, or sufficient quantity of water; and a Sy∣rupe must be made of two parts of its colature and sugar.

The Tamarinds and Cassia must be humectated with the rest, that their pulps may be more easily separated and secerned.

The Rhabarb must be brayed alone; the Senny, Liquorice, Fen∣nel, and Violets, both alone and together; twice as much of the Syrupe of Violets, may be mixed in stead of the Violets: the four cold seeds must be excorticated, and minutely cut with a Pen-knife; then must the Penidia and Sugar be pulverated; then must all be put together, and agitated with a ligneous Pestel or Rudicle, till they become an Electuary of a legitimate consistence.

And the composition of this solemn Medicament is not onely va∣rious, but there are also various opinions concerning its Author: for Sylvius seems to ascribe the invention thereof to Galen; Jouber∣tus, to Nicolaus Myrepsicus; Bauderonius, to Nicolaus Salernitanus; Adolphus Occon, to Nicolaus Praepositus; Valer. Cordus, to Nicolaus Ale∣xandrinus; who indeed hath described it, but not as it is vulgarly made.

But none know certainly, to which of these to attribute its inven∣tion: but all call it Nicolaus his Catholicum, not adding his Sirname.

Now this Medicament is called Catholical, or Universal, either because it expurges all humours, or because it draws them from all parts of the Body.

That which is made according to this prescript, is called Simple Catholicum, in reference to the more compound; which receives twice as much Rhabarb and Senny; yet neither of them substan∣tially, or in powder, ingrede that same, as they do this simple Ca∣tholicum: but the Senny is cocted, and the Rhabarb infused, and its expression joyned with the mixture; which formed into an Ele∣ctuary, is called Catholicum Duplicatum.

Many coct Anise and Fennel, and others Coriander-seed, with Polypody, to discuss its flatuosity: but there is Fennel enough in the description, to effect this; so that there is no need to congest so many Medicaments of the same faculty together. If any like not Anise, he may in its stead substitute sweet Fennel or Coriander, or an equal weight of each: yea, any may adde some Cinamon, to make it more grateful, and it will be of good consequence. The rest I leave to the old description, which most Medicks approve of, and prefer before many purges: which to pervert, as Rondeletius hath done, were a piece of a piacle.

Some keep a certain Catholicum in their shops for Glysters, dif∣ferent from the common one, onely in this, that it admits of one∣ly old and worse Rhabarb, and is confected with Honey in stead of Sugar.

That which is very purgative, wherein Apothecaries put Turpen∣tine, Coloquintida, and Hermodactyls, is not good.

I hear of some that make a more liquid Catholicon, onely of Sy∣rupe, and the infusion of some pulps: but its faculties being very imbecile, and not respondent to the scope of the Author, whoever first made it, I think it is not now kept or prepared.

Fernelius gives more descriptions of Catholicum: one whereof, amongst other things, receives Hellecampane, Hyssop, Ginger, Ci∣namon, Nutmeg, and Honey; another amongst Purgatives, Aga∣rick, Turpentine, and Diacridium: which compositions, made by a perite artificer, are good; but they are seldome kept in shops.

Let that then which we have, according to the Ancients minde here described, be continually kept for the true Catholicum in each Pharmacopoly.

It clemently and gently purges all humours, cures Fevers, * 1.87 and acute diseases, especially such as proceed from the prave disposition of the Spleen and Liver.

CHAP. 4. Diaprunum, seu Diadamascenum simplex; or, Simple Dia∣prunum, or Diadamascenum. D.N.Myr.

℞ of fresh and ripe Damask-Prunes, n. 100. boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water, till they grow soft; then let them be pulped through a hair-sieve: In the percolated Colature, boyl the flowers of Violets ℥ j. In the Colature, dissolve Sugar lb ij. boyl them into a Syrupe; to which adde the pulp of the aforesaid Prunes, inspissated by it self lb j. of the pith of Cassia and Tamarinds, of each ℥ j. then sprinkle in these following Powders; viz. White Sanders, red Sanders, Rhabarb, of each ʒ iij. Roses, Violets, the seeds of Purslain, Endive, Berber∣ries, Juyce of Liquorice, Thraganth, of each ʒ ij. of the four greater cool seeds, of each ʒ j. make it into an Electuary according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

The description of this Electuary, shews the manner of its con∣fection, which indeed is the best: though some make it otherwise, who wash and elixate not onely the pulps of Plums and Tamarinds, but of Cassia also, to the consistence of Honey with a Syrupe: whereunto they afterwards adde the Powders, that, together with its desired faculty, it may acquire its legitimate consistence.

But all agree not about the quantity of Violets: for some, ac∣cording to Nic. Myrepsus his decree, take onely half an ounce, others

an ounce and a half: we, aiming at the mean, take one ounce, to be a little cocted in the strained decoction of the Plums. Some, be∣sides the Authors intention, adde Cinamon; but we think it unfit for a lenitive and refrigerative Medicament.

And we judge no otherwise of Berberries-seeds, though we know that they are roborative: for Diaprunum may easily be without their help, seeing it admits of Rhabarb and Roses, which are farre more roborative, and seeing its main faculty should rather be leni∣tive then roborative.

But that they call Spodium, is not once to be thought of in this confection, because the Grecian Spodium is noxious, and the Ara∣bian cannot be had, and is withall inconvenient; as also Antispo∣dium, which being nothing but burnt Ivory, hath no affinity with the burnt Roots of Cane, which Avicenna calls Spodium: as we have shewed in our third Book of Medicinal Matter, Chap. 11.

CHAP. 5. Diaprunum compositum seu laxativum; or, The Compound or laxative Diaprunum. D.N.Myr.

℞ of the simple Diaprunum afore-prescribed lb j. Scammony prepared ℥ ss. mingle them, and make them into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Both the sorts of Diaprunum are compounded and laxative, but the simple not admitting of Diacridium, subduces the Belly easily, scarce moving the first region of the Body: the other, which ad∣mitting of Diagridium, moves the Belly potently, and deduces hu∣mours from all parts, is called the more compound.

Onely one ounce of Diacridium, is added to each pound of the simple Diaprunum: so that one ounce of the Electuary, contains but one scruple of the same. Nic. Salernitanus doth perversly aug∣ment the weight of the Diacridium, mixing seven dragms thereof, with each pound of the Electuary: for so its purgative faculty be∣comes more efferous, and its use more unsafe. Diacridium must be levigated very small, and put to the Electuary while hot.

This Diaprunum, * 1.88 besides those qualities it hath common with the other, purges potently, and yet without molestation: it is suc∣cessfully used in the diseases of the Reins and Bladder, in Fevers, and all calid affections.

CHAP. 6. Diaphoenicum, seu Confectio de Dactylis; or, Diaphoenicum, or Confection of Dates. D.Mes.

℞ of Dates not perfectly ripe, macerated three dayes in Vinegar ʒ 100. Penidees ʒ l. of the best Turbith ʒ xxx. Diagridium ʒ xij. Ginger, Long Pepper, Rue dryed, Cinamon, Mace, Lignum Aloes, the seeds of Anise, Fennel, Carret, Galangal, of each ʒ ij. Honey despumed lb ss. or as much as will suffice to bring it into the consistency of a solid Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Seeing Dates of a perfect magnitude, and not absolutely mature, are somewhat flave, there is no need of this word Kirron in the pre∣script, which vulgar Apothecaries usually adde: for if they derive it from the Greeks, it signifies flave; if from the Barbarians, who write it Kheyron, it signifies immature; or rather, as it is most cre∣dible, Chayrum, a Town or Field where best Dates grow: which one Saladinus, a Triobolar writer, seems to avouch, when he saith, that Keiron is a Province of the Sarazens. Seeing there is no need to seek immature Dates for this confection, when mature ones will make it astrictive enough, and castigate Scammony: yet I think, That neither absolutely immature, nor yet mature ones, but indifferent betwixt both, are best.

But before they ingrede the composition, they should be purged from their pills and stones, cut into pieces, and macerated in a small quantity of Vinegar, onely a day, if they be soft; if not, two or three, and that in an earthen pot; then must they be brayed in a Marble-Morter; then trajected through a cernicle, and afterwards elixated with despumed honey, till their vinegar be dissipated.

Some macerate Dates in Hydromel, others in white-wine; but they are fitter to the temper of Aromata's, and attenuate Phlegm, which are macerated in vinegar.

The Penidia must be of Barley, which are made of Sugar and Barley-water, cocted to an idoneous crassitude.

Turbith, Wood-Aloes, Galangal, Ginger, and other Simples, must be pulverated. Almorids must first be incided small with a knife, and then levigated with Penidees; then all the Powders may be mixed together, except Scammony, which must be brayed apart, and last of all mixed with them; not to thrice as much Honey, as Cordus holds, but to half a pound.

For thus much honey, suffices the Dates, Penidia and Almonds being all sweet; whose weight in all, is one pound, nine ounces and three dragms; the weight of the other Powders, eight ounces and six dragms: which put together, make two pounds and an half;

which, with half a pound of despumed honey, constitutes three pounds, or thirty six ounces: so that for each ounce of the com∣pound, there is a scruple of Diacridium.

Perhaps this quantity of honey, may not to some seem copious enough to receive the Powders, nor just to bring the Electuary to a legitimate consistence; especially seeing Bauderonius, most perite in Pharmacy, takes thirteen ounces and an half of honey; Bern. Dis∣sennius, two pounds; Joan. Costa, two pounds and eight ounces; and Rondeletius, six pounds: But Dates, Penidia, and Almonds, supply∣ing Honey's office, the quantity we have defined may be enough, which by augmentation makes the vertue of the compound more imbecile.

Some weigh the Dates after they are macerated in vinegar; others take (and that better) their weight according to Mesu's definition, before their maceration; and then infuse, then bray and prepare them, as we have declared. This Medicament is denominated from them, as from its basis: which yet some call Diaturbith, because Turbith is most prepotent amongst the Purgatives, which ingrede its composition; because of which, this Medicament is Phlegma∣gogous.

Diaphoenicum, * 1.89 or confection of Dates, doth clemently and safely purge phlegm and choler, cures Belly-ach, cholick, and all diseases from crude and pituitous humours, diuturnal also, and pituitous Fevers.

He that hath this Medicament, may well be without both the Indo's.

CHAP. 9. Electuarium de Psyllo; or, Electuary of Fleawort. D.M.

℞ of the depurated Juyces of Bugloss, Borrage, Endive, and Smallage, of each lb ij. the Juyce of Fumatory ℥ iij. mingle them, and macerate in them a whole day, of the leaves of Senny ℥ j. Anise-seed, Dodder, Asarabacca, of each ℥ ss. Maiden-hair, m.j. Spikenard ʒ ij. Let all these be fervefied together; to which adde, of Violets ℥ iij. * 1.90 Dodder of Thyme ℥ ij. Boyl them a little, afterwards let them be strained; and infuse in the Colature for 24 hours, of the whole seeds of Fleabit ℥ iij. Let them be agitated well in the mixture, afterwards strained, and to lb iiij. of the Colature, adde of white Sugar lb ij. ss. Boyl it to a little above the consistence of a Syrupe; and while it is hot, mingle of Diagridium sinely sifted ℥ iij. Trochisks of Diarrhodon Abbatis, de Antispodio, and of Rhabarb, of each ℥ j. Troches of Berberries, Conserve of Violets, of each ℥ ss. and so make it into an Ele∣ctuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Many commend this Medicament, when congested and compoun∣ded; but few celebrate the Simples whereof it consists; scarce two amongst a hundred keep to one proportion, or make it after one manner: for, some augment, some detract, and many change the weight; but we, in the apparation of this Medicament, hold the words of no Authors for Oracles, but according to the dictate of Reason, change somewhat of that our Author prescribed: For in stead of the succe of wilde Bugloss, we substitute the succe of Gar∣den Bugloss, or rather Borrage, as better; in stead of half an ounce of Senny, which could be of no remarkable potency, we put a whole ounce; in stead of three ounces and an half of Scammony, we onely admit of three, that each scruple thereof, might respond to each ounce of the composition: For we judge, that its purgative faculty will thus be valid enough. We do not institute cocted Dia∣cridium, to be recocted in a Quince, lest its vertue be obtunded.

We have added Conserve of Violets, that it might be more leni∣tive: we admit of onely half an ounce of Asarabacca, in stead of Mesue's four. But it may be that weight was changed by the Prin∣ter, mistaking ʒ iiij. for ℥ iiij. Polytrichum may be substituted in de∣fect of Maidens-hair: the manner of preparation is apparent e∣nough in the description.

Now if any admire why Mesue, designing a venenate quality to Fleawort, should put it in so great quantity in this Medicament, whereof it is the Basis: I answer, That that might happen to him, which many grave men have not avoided, to wit, to speak something precipitantly, which better thoughts, and further knowledge, might castigate and change: But however he thought, Fleawort is not deletery, and therefore accedes this Electuary, which is of much use.

This Electuary doth not onely temper, but purge choler, * 1.91 helps in acute Fevers, and all hot and dangerous diseases, cures the Ver∣tigo, and all such capital affections as proceed from the ascent or congestion of hot humours, and helps the hot or obstructed Liver, and other affections flowing from that fountain.

CHAP. 8. Benedicta laxativa; or, The blessed laxative. D.N. Salern.

℞ of Turbith, Radix, Esulae prepared, of each ʒ x. Diagridium, Her∣modactyls, Rose-leaves, of each ʒ v. Ginger, Galangal, Cloves, Car∣damomes, Amomus, or in its defect Acorus, Long-Pepper, Mace, Spike∣nard, Saffron, the seeds of Smallage, Caraway, Fennel, Saxafrage, Gromwell, Asparagrass, Butchers-broom, Sal Gemme, of each ʒ j. of despumed honey lb j. and ℥ viij. ss. to make it up into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Before the root of Esula be brayed, and used as it should, it must be macerated four and twenty hours in Vinegar; then exsiccated, and pulverated with Turbith, Spikenard cut small, Ginger, the les∣ser Galangal, and Hermodactyle: when these are half brayed, the Aromata's must be mixed with them, and all of them levigated to∣gether: onely Salt, Saffron, Sugar, and Scammony, must be pre∣pared apart.

The weight of the Powders, without Salt and Sugar, is ʒ lij. and thrice as much despumed honey must be put thereto, that the confe∣ction may be of a legitimate consistence; which benignly sub∣duces the Belly.

Their opinion must be rejected, who think that Diagridium must either be lessened in quantity, or quite substracted, lest the Medi∣cament become too Cholagogous: for there concurring three Phlegmagogous Purgatives, this quantity is well defined, both to excite the slow faculty of Turbith, and to purge some choler with the phlegm.

It doth not onely draw these humours from the first region of the Body, * 1.92 but from the Reins also, and remoter parts. It absolves ob∣structions, expels all viscid humours, and moves phlegm from the articles.

CHAP. 9. Electuarium, seu confectio Hamech. Des. Fernel.

℞ of the barks of Citrian, Myrobolans ℥ ij. Chebulans, Indian, of each ℥ j. ss. of Violets, Coloquintida, Polypody, of each ℥ j. ss. of Wormwood, Thyme, of each ℥ ss. of the seeds of Anise, Fennel, Rose-leaves, of each ʒ iij. after they are well bruised, let them be macerated a whole day in lb ij. of Whey; afterwards boyled to lb j. then make a strong expression: and to the Colature, adde of the Juyce of Fumatory, pulp of Prunes, and Raisins stoned, of each lb ss. of white Sugar, and of Honey despumed, of each lb j. boyl them to the consistency of Ho∣ney; then sprinkle in these powders: of Agarick, and Senny, of each ℥ ij. of Rhabarb ℥ j. ss. Epithimus ℥ j. Diagridium ʒ vj. Cinamon ℥ ss. Ginger ʒ ij. the seeds of Fumatory and Anise, Spikenard, of each ʒ j. make it into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Fernelius hath well castigated and changed this Electuary, pre∣serving its vertue entire, and reducing its description into an easier form: for, as Plantius saith, Myrobolambs twice decocted, and then brayed and imposed, are frustraneous. Rhabarbs faculty pe∣rishes

by coction; Cassia, Manna, and Tamarinds, by coction corrupt: Diagridium also, when cocted, is without vertue, nor ea∣sily commiscible: and yet by Mesue's ancient description, these were all thus prepared, and confusedly mixed, without art or order. Wherefore we have extracted this description from Fernelius, as being much better when made, and much casier to make, without which, no Pharmacopoly should be once found: And notwith∣standing this same Rhythmical admonition of a certain Versifica∣tor:

Non eris illusus, teneas si quod tenet usus.

When the use is prave, it must be changed; and that mutation is good, which is from good to better.

Mesue requires to this confection, the Whey of Goats-milk, but defines not how much: yet we may assume the Whey of Asses milk in its stead; and if that be wanting, of Cows-milk: in two pounds whereof, the Simples must be macerated and cocted, and they will depose their faculties therein. The pulps of Raisins and Plums must be dissolved in the colature; the Honey, Sugar and succe of Fumatory, must be all cocted therein, above the consistence of a Syrupe: the rest must be added as the description shews; it is easie enough.

This confection purges both the Biles, and salt phlegm; * 1.93 and thence conduces to the Canker, Leprosie, Raving, Melancholy, Tet∣ter, Itch, Scab, and such cutaneous affections.

Barber-Chirurgeons use this, to purge all such as are infected with the French disease; as though all had one temper, and but one humour peccant in all men. But such of them as boast more glo∣tiously, and are by conference with Medicks something more pru∣dent, acknowledge the matter peccant in this disease, to be various, according to the various natures of the diseased.

CHAP. 10. Tryphera solutiva.

℞ of Diagridium ʒ x. of the best Turbith ℥ j. of the lesser Cardamomes, Cloves, Cinamon, Mace, of cach ʒ iij. yellow Sanders, Liquorice, and sweet Fennel-seed, of each ℥ ss. * 1.94 Acorus, Squinant, of each ʒ j. the bark of Citron condited, Rose-leaves, of each ʒ iij. of Violets ʒ ij. of Penidees ℥ iiij. Loaf-sugar lb ss. the whitest Honey despumed in the Juyce of Apples lb j. with which make it into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

The acception of the word Tryphera, seems to be contrarily ta∣ken by Mesue; whose Trypherae, as he describes them, are not deli∣cate, as the word denotes, but grateful in colour and sapour, and

incommendable in faculties, I exhibit one indued with all these dowries; for its sapour is very grateful, its colour pleasant, and its faculties eximious, and easily tolerable, by such as need them.

We leave out Ginger, which was wont to be added to Turbith, because we have accumulated many Aromata's, to castigate its se∣rity, which are more sweet and cordial; which also abate of the fury of Diagridium, especially Roses, Violets, and Santals, which allay also the heat of the Aromata's: Penidia are added for miti∣gation, Sugar for suavity, and Honey for conservation.

Anton. Landaeus, an Apothecary of Paris, made it after this form faithfully as I have described it, and exhibited it by my advice to many sick people, who without any insuavity to the mouth, subver∣sion to the stomack, or torsion to the Belly, were thereby successfully purged, and securely liberated from their diseases.

It is most commodious to such who abound with many bilious and pituitous excrements, and can take no purgative Medicaments, but grateful ones: for this confection is not insuave, and yet it potently subduces the Belly, removes obstructions, purges crass and viseid humours, helps compounded Fevers, and all such diseases as arise from phlegm and bile: But it is not so good in the heat of Sum∣mer, unless it be drunk in some validly-refrigerative decoction, or other such liquor.

CHAP. 11. Diabalzemer; seu Electuarium Sennatum.

℞ of the roots of Succory, Bugloss, Polypody of the Oak, the bark of the roots of Capers, Grass-roots, Liquorice, Currans, of each ʒ vj. Ma∣den-hair, Mules-fern, Ceterach, Dodder, Mugwort, Fumatory, Egri∣mony, Betony, Balm, the flowers of Broom and Violets, of each m. ss. Boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water, till lb iij. of the Colature remains; in which infuse and boyl, of the leaves of Senny, the seeds of Carret and Coriander, of each ʒ j. ss. black Hellebore, Turbith, of each ℥ j. ss. Cloves ʒ ij. boyl these, till a third part of the Liquor be consumed: to the Colature, adde lb j. ss. of the Sugar; which again boyl, till it comes to above the consistency of a Syrupe: to which adde the infusion of ℥ ss. of choyce of Rhabarb in Steel-water, strongly ex∣pressed forth; then adde of the Powders of Senny ℥ ij. of Lapis La∣zuli prepared, Cinamon, of each ℥ ss. Sassafras, ℥ j. Pyony-roots, Tamaris, Epithimus, the middle bark of Ash, of each ʒ ij. Sem. Agni Casti, Roman Gith, Spikenard, of each ʒ ij. Rosemary, Stoechados, of each ʒ ij. Make it into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Each disease hath its praesidy, but every Dispensatory suppedi∣tates

not a Salve for every sore: We shall endeavour now to adde something, wherein many have been defective, and afford an auxi∣liary for the Hypochondriacal; who, as yet, have been either over∣looked, or taken for desperate. This Medicament is concinnated for the affections of the Hypochondriacal, Histerical, Melancholical, and such as venery hath proclaimed French-men. It is named Dia∣lalzemer, from Senny its Basis, which the Arabians call Albazemer; then which, no Medicament is more melanagogous, nor purge more tolerable. This we mix partly in Powder, partly in infusion, with such things as discuss flatulency, attenuate humours, remove infar∣ctures, roborate the spleen, liver, and bowels, recreate the facul∣ties, respect the Uterus, obtund some malign quality, and securely propel humours long since congested; not onely melancholical and contumacious ones, but viscid and pituitous also, which sometimes put on the habit of Melancholly, and some adust bilious humours: and therefore we adde Rhabarb and Turbith, that we may with the Melancholical Captain-humour, educe the Pituitous, his compa∣nion inseparable, and also the Bilious, which is pedissequous.

And because this Medicament most respects melancholy, we have selected black Hellebore for this black humour; rejecting the white, as more convenient for Phlegm.

The manner of its preparation is easie, and sufficiently demon∣strated in the description. But before all be congested into the composition, the Azure-stone calls for some preparation; as thus:

A sufficient quantity thereof must be taken, brayed in a Metal∣line Morter, washed with common water, dryed in the Sun or hot ashes; then again washed and dryed; and so again, and again, till the water remain limpid; then must it be dryed, and that not ten, but, if need be, twenty times; then let it be washed four, five, or more times in cordial waters; then let it be dryed, and kept for use. For thus its malign quality perishes, and its purgative e∣vades conqueror. In the confection of Alkermes it is burnt, and its purgative faculty exhaled, its cordial onely then remaining, whereof there is use.

Diabalzemer doth miraculoussy help the Splenical, * 1.95 Melancholi∣cal, Hypochondriacal, Maniacal, Epileptical, Histerical, and Ele∣phantical: This frees Widows from their foetid colours for want of concourse; and venereous Indians from their scarlet Noses, con∣tracted by contract.

CHAP. 12. Hydragogum Eximium.

℞ of the roots of Orris, Reed, Grass, the barks of the roots of Capers, Asarabacca, Caraway, of each ʒ vj. Pimpinel, * 1.96 Maiden-hair, E∣grimony, Ceterach, Mugwort, of each m.j. of the flowers of the Peach∣tree m. ss. Boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water: In the Cola∣ture

infuse and boyl a little, of the leaves of Senny ℥ ij. of the seeds of Carret ℥ ij. boyl the decoction, till it comes to a pinte; to which adde Juyce of Damask-Roses lb ss. Sugar lb ss. Honey despumed in the de∣coction ℥ x. boyl them to a Syrupe: to which adde these following pow∣ders, Manna ℥ ij. Turbith, * 1.97 Milkwort prepared, of each ℥ j. ss. Ginger ʒ j. Water-flag, Calamus, Aromaticus, of each ʒ j. Mechoa∣can ℥ ij. the seeds of Dwarf-eldern ℥ ss. and of Sea-Coleworts ʒ iij. Cinamon ʒ ij. make it up into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Many descriptions we have, which smell more of confusion, then composition, whose effects shew their brangling Authors; and therefore we reject many liquid Electuaries, as either unaccommo∣dated for cure, by their ill composure; or obsolete, for want of cu∣stome; picking out such as are better described, and more appro∣ved by their sanative effects: As, besides the two former which we have added, this also, which for its excellence is called, The eximi∣ous Hydragogal Electuary, which we desire may be alwayes in Pharmacopolies, that it may be ready to open the sluce when the river is stopped, and the banks almost over-run; lest the hy∣droptical be without praesidy, and drown his vitals in his watty Belly. And because we would have this Medicament perfect, we have added such things as will emend the distemper, remove the ob∣structions, and roborate the whole of the Spleen and Liver, from which the hydroptical get much of his evil. We have also added some, to discuss flatuosity, and awaken the native calour; Besides many more, which duly prepared, become hydragogous. The form demonstrates the manner of their preparation.

This may be safely given to such as labour under the Dropsie; * 1.98 for it educes watry humours without violence; and is a most accom∣modate Purgative for all diseases arising from thence.

The Parisian common people used to flock to a woman-Pharma∣copolist, who gave them a certain Powder, to purge the hydroptical of their watry and serous humours; but few or none recovered.

SECT. II. Of Hierae.

SOme Purgative Compounds were for their excellent effects, by the Greeks called Hierae, that is, Holy, and Great; for they are indued with great vertues, and cure great diseases: but they are most vulgarly denominated from some famous Author; as,

CHAP. 1. Hiera Picra, seu Dialoe Galeni.

lb of Cinamon, Mace, Asarum, Spikenard, Saffron, Mastick, Squinant, of each ʒ vj. Aloes not washed ʒ 100. or lb j. and ℥ ss. the best Ho∣ney despumed, the treble quantity, or lb iiij. make it into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

This Hiera is, by Galen its Author, called Picra, that is, amare, because of the Aloes, which is its Basis; from which it mutuates its Purgative faculty. We retain the old composition, save that in stead of Xylobalsum, which is scarce to be had, we, by Fernelius his advice, substitute Mace; and for the flowers of the sweet Rush, which are not brought to us, the Rush it self: and so we keep to the quantity which Galen, or rather Andromachus, prescribed to be mixed with the Aloes.

This Hiera Picra was most usual at Rome; besides other two, which Galen sometimes used; in which he detracted, changed, or at plea∣sure added what exigence called for. But now they are obsolete.

But this yet remains entire, except it be for the wood of Balm, which some take out, and substitute nothing; others the surcles of Lentisks; and others, the fruit of Balm: which is equally rare, therefore no good substitute. But Mace or Sweet-cane may well succeed in its room, and the Hiera no whit less efficacious. Galen is perhibited its Author, rather because he celebrated it, then in∣vented it. It is easie to make: the Mastick, Aloes and Saffron must first be brayed a part, then the rest; and afterwards the ingredients must all be mixed in despumed honey, that they may acquire the spissitude of an Electuary.

It califies, incides, attenuates, dryes, deterges, * 1.99 removes obstru∣ctions, expurges bilious, pituitous, crass, and viscid humours: it conduces miraculously, helps the affections of the Ventricle, Me∣sentery, Liver, Head, and Junctures: to each ounce of the com∣pound, put ℈ ij. and g. i. ss. and of the Powder of the rest, g.xv.

CHAP. 2. Hiera Picra with Agarick.

℞ of the species of Hierae without Aloes, Agarick trochiscated, of each ℥ ss. Aloes not washed ℥ j. Honey despumed a treble quantity, or ℥ vj. make it into an Electuary according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

This Hierae consists of two benign purgative Medicaments; the one Aloes, which is Cholagogous; the other Agarick, which is Phlegmagogous: For two humours might be too hard for one Me∣dicament; therefore to a mixt distemper, we prescribe a mixt cure, or a compound of mixt qualities. And because Galens Hiera Picra is often given to the affections of the Ventricle and Brain, wherein much of crass phlegm lodges, as well as Bile, we have described this Hiera with Agarick, that it may expurge all at once. It is made as the precedent, whose powder is often kept in Pharmacopolies, and when use requires, mixt with Aloes and Honey, or with Aloes, Honey, and Agarick, as the Medicks scope requires.

But that which admits of Agarick, * 1.100 is useful to many things: for it educes all, but chiefly crass and viscid phlegm, and putrid Bile; it incides humours, takes away infarctures, exonerates the Mesentery, purges the ventricle, resarciates the appetite, helps coction, educes noxious humours from the brain, and cures the Epilepsie, Vertigo and Viligance.

CHAP. 3. Hiera Pachii; or, Pacchius his Hiera. D. Scribon.

℞ of Stoechados, Horehound, Germander, Agarick, Coloquintida, of each ʒ x. Opoponax, Sagapenum, Parsley seeds, long Birthwort, white Pepper, of each ʒ v. Cinamon, Spikenard, Myrrhe, Indian leaf, Saffron, of each ℥ ss. Honey despumed a treble quantity, or lb iij. mingle them according to Art into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

Oribasius attributes this Hiera to Ruffius; Paulus, to Archigenus; Scribonius Largus, to Pacchius: yet he was not the first Author, but a prudent celebrator thereof, who getting much lucre thereby, kept it to himself as a hidden Secret, till his death: When he was dead, its description, as it is here given, was brought to Tiberius Caesar; from whom Scribonius got it, who before that time was by no art able to extort it. Aetius calls it sometimes the Hiera of Archi∣genus,

sometimes of Antiochus; and we call it Pacchius his Hierae: and it is thus made:

Sarpagenum, Opopanax, and Myrrhe, must be macerated a whole night in Hydromel or Wine, rather then Vinegar; then trajected through a strong strainer, that all their impurer parts may be se∣cerned, afterwards mixed with despumed honey, together with other pulverated simples: but Saffron, Agarick, and Coloquin∣tida, must be brayed apart; and in the pulveration of Coloquin∣tida, a drop or two of Oyl put to it, that its vertue may not exhale, and that its pulveration may be more facile: yet its pulp must onely be assumed, and white Horehound rather then black.

Pacchius his Hiera is efficacious to many things: * 1.101 for it cures the Epileptical, the furious, vertiginous, cephalalgicous, suspirious, anhelant, comatous, and such as are obnoxious to the Incubus, and other affections of the eyes, ears, and head. It purges also the sto∣mack, emends the affections of the Liver, takes away the sand in the spleen, and diminishes its hardness; auxiliates the diseases of the in∣testines, discusses or opens imposthumes, either already made there, or in making; and moves fluors in such women as can hardly be purged.

CHAP. 4. Hiera Diacolocynthidos magist. or, The Magisterial Hiera of Diacolocynthis.

℞ of pulp of Coloquintida ℥ j. Agarick, black Hellebore, of each ℥ ss. Aloes ʒ x. Diagridium, Polypody, Mastick, Opoponax, Bdellium, Sa∣gapenum, of each ʒ ij. of the roots of Enula-campane, Cyprus, Ange∣lica, Cloves, Cinamon, Mace, Bay-berries, Juniper-berries, Carda∣momes, Majoran, Stoechados, Saffron, Spikenard, of each ʒ j. Rose∣leaves ʒ iij. Honey despumed lb j. ss. mingle them according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

In the Apothecaries Dispensatories, nothing is more confounded, then the descriptions of Hierae, which every one arbitrarily either changes, or denominates wrong. Hence we see the same Hiera de∣signed by three names; as that same which is sometimes called the Hiera of Pacchius, sometimes the Hiera of Archigenus, sometimes of Ruffius, and sometimes also of Diacolocynthis: and three different Hiera's designed by one name; as this of Diacolocynthis, which Mesue describes one way, Nic. Myrepsus another, and Fernelius ano∣ther. But we prefer the Hiera of Pacchius before them all, which we call Magisterial, because of the excellency of its Basis and faculties. He that hath this, may easily be without all the Hiera's which ad∣mit of Coloquintida; and it is thus made:

Opoponax, Bdellium, and Sagapenum, must be macerated a

whole night, or else a day, in Vinegar, rather then in Wine, because of the heat of those simples which ingrede its composition: then they must be well strained, and the Vinegar resolved upon ashes; the Purgatives must be brayed apart, and a little Oyl of Almonds put to the Coloquintida, lest it molest the Brayer; then the other simples, the hardest first, the Aromata next, all must be mixed with despumed honey to a legitimate spissitude.

It is of eximious power, * 1.102 in curing the affections of the head, ven∣tricle, and abdomen; which proceed from crude, pituitous, crass, or melancholical humours; but especially sanative of the Apoplexy, Drowziness, Lethargy, Palsey, Epilepsie, Incubus, difficulty of Breathing, Cholick, Hypochondriacal Melancholy, and all affecti∣ons of the Belly arising from vitreous and crass phlegm, and all such as stupifie the senses, or hebescate motion, or both.

SECT. III. Of solid Electuaries, and Purgative Trochisks.

THose that compose, or rather transcribe Antidotaries or Dispensatories, think they demerit much praise, if without Art or Reason they do con∣gest a heap of Medicaments, depromed from certain Authors. But we have not onely selected all, but picked out of the most select, such as long Use and Reason have best approved of. Whereunto we have added, and from which we have detracted what Reason assured us was useless, or Expe∣rience told us was rare and unknown: And this not onely in the descriptions of the Ancients, but of the more Recents also; for it often happens, that grave men both write and speak from others relations, and so hold and defend for truth, what they have miss-heard, or not known. And I therefore describe fewer Medicaments in this Shop, because I would be able to give the legitimate Composition, the true manner and reason of it, the illustration and faculties upon good grounds and experience.

CHAP. 1. Electuarium Diacarthami; or, The Electuary of Diacarthamum, or Diacnic. Des. Arnal. Villan.

℞ of the pith of the seeds of Bastard-saffron, Hermodactyls, Pul Dia∣trag. frigid. of each ℥ ss. Turbith ʒ vj. Ginger, Manna Granata, of each ʒ ij. Diagridium ʒ iij. Sugar-Candy, the Medulla of Quin∣ces condited, Honey of Roses, of each ℥ j. white Sugar ℥ iij. ss. make it according to Art into a solid Electuary tabulated.

The COMMENTARY.

The description of Diacarthamum is as much controverted, as it is used; which you shall scarce finde alike in two Authors. Jouber∣tus describes it three manner of wayes; but Use and Reason assure us, that one of them is more certain safe, which we have bor∣rowed from Nic. Praepositus, which is somewhat changed from that which its Author Arnaldus Villanovinus gave of it.

It takes its name from Carthamus, which is its Basis; though Tur∣bith in plenty and faculties exceed it: Both their qualities are in∣tended by the adjection of Ginger. Diagridium and Hermoda∣ctyls do not onely draw phlegm, but bile also from the articles; their efferous quality is castigated by condited Quinces flesh: Manna, Diatragacanthum and Sugar, are put to leniate and temper, to de∣terge and move phlegm, and Honey to conserve.

Diacarthamum must be thus prepared: The seed of Carthamus must first be decorticated, then brayed; afterwards Ginger, Tur∣bith, and Hermodactyls must be pulverated; then Diagridium, and Candid Sugar, and Quinces, the Honey, Manna, and Cidoniatum must be then mixt with the Sugar, cocted to the consistence of a Sy∣rupe whilst hot, and afterwards the powders, that they make a solid Electuary, to be discinded into tabels.

It is of frequent use, * 1.103 and is kept ready almost in all Pharmacopo∣lies: it purges pituitous humours potently, not onely from the ven∣tricle and Mesentery, but also from more remote parts: if it be as∣sumed in greater quantity, it detracts also something of Bile: where∣fore it helps not onely in quotidian, and meerly pituitous Fevers, but in complicated also; which arise from the mixture of divers humors.

CHAP. 2. Elect. de succo Rosar. or, An Electuary of the succe of Roses.

℞ of the depurated Juyce of red Roses lb j. Sugar lb j. ss. boyl them into a solid Electuary; to which add of the three Sanders, of each ℥ ss. Mastick ʒ ij. ℈ ij. dry Citron-pill ʒ j. Camphyr ℈ j. make of these a hard and solid Electuary, which roll out upon a board, and last into Tallets, every one to weigh ʒ j. ss. or ʒ ij. at least.

The COMMENTARY.

I am not he, who for ostentation would change the old, and pro∣mulgate new sentences, but to pass my judgement on such things as are spoken or written without reason: and here I challenge liberty to Philosophize.

And now I seeing this Electuary described by Myrepsus, discerpt∣ed from Salernitanus, variously patched, and ill concinnated by the more recent; I feared not to diminish the too heavy weight, aug∣ment the too light, and change the inept things: All which I did with consultation, not precipitantly; I seeing no reason that the succe of Roses should be of equal weight with the Sugar, I diminish the quantity of the succe, and augment the Sugar; well knowing, that a pound of Sugar will sooner and better be cocted to the consistence of a Syrupe, or an Electuary, in half a pound of Roses succe, then in a whole one; and its faculties will not be much more imbecile, but roborative enough.

Something also I have detracted from the weight of the Santals, and have substituted a little of the Pill of Oranges in its stead; part∣ly to conciliate more suavity, and partly to arceate putretude, and recreate the vitals. Some leave out Camphyre, because of its strong sent: but I approve of it; for its halite quality makes the Electuary more grateful, and its permeative quality more efficacious.

I have, in stead of Spodium, which cannot be had, Antispodium, which being onely burnt Ivory, is not proper, substituted Mastick, to roborate the Ventricle, and castigate Scammony.

Burnt Ivory is foolishly and ineptly called Spodium, and substi∣tuted for the fictitious Arabian Spodium: for, let Apothecaries be∣lieve as they will, there is but one true Spodium, and that is the Graecian Pompholix, which should never be introsumed. The Arabian Interpreters are also miserably out, in rendring Tabaxir Spodium, and Spodium Burnt Ivory: for Tabaxir is the succe or concreted liquor of certain Trees, or very crass and tall Reeds, which by the agitation of the wind, and their mutual collision, some∣times conflagrate; from which burning, Avicenna mendicated his Spodium, or rather Tabaxir, which his infidous Interpreter Clusius calls his Spodium. But we get not this Tabaxir from India, nor the ashes of these burnt Canes from Arabia; neither would they be of much use in Medicine, if we had them: nor yet doth burnt Ivory respond to them as a substitute; therefore they must either be quite expunged, or some other congruous Medicament placed in their stead.

In the vulgar description, there are ℈ xxxvj. of Diagridium, for each ounce of the composition: But in our emendation, there ac∣cedes onely half a dragm of Diagridium, to each ounce of the com∣pound; and yet it is so valid and potent, that it may well retain its old name, The spur of Purgatives; for, in a small mole, it hath much of efficacy.

The manner of its preparation, is the same with Diacarthamum, and that is apparent enough, by the description of the form: some take onely the distilled succe of Roses, wherein they macerate their Tragacanthum, and extract a Mucago for the comprehension of the Powders, and the concinnation of their solid Electuary. But I had rather inspissate the succe in S. Maries Bath, to the spissitude of a Rob, that so it might better concorporate the Powders. If any will use unprepared Scammony for Diagridium, he may upon good grounds leave the wonted quantity of Roses succe.

This Electuary is meerly cholagogous, * 1.104 and by educing choler potently, cures such affections as proceed from that humour.

CHAP. 3. Electuarium de Citro solutivum.

℞ of the bark of Citron-Pill condited, of the Conserve of Violets, of the Conserve of Bugloss-flowers, Pul Diatrag. frigid. of each ℥ ss. Tur∣bith ʒ v. Ginger, ʒ ss. Senny ʒ j. sweet Fennel-seed ʒ j. white Sugar dissolved in Rose-water, and cocted according to Art ℥ x. make it into a solid Electuary.

If this our restituted description arride not any one so well, as that antick one of Stephanus Arnaldus, or Guidon Cauliacus, he may here take it:

℞ of the Conserve of Violets, of Borrage, of each ʒ ij. the roots of Bug∣loss, Citron-Pill condited, of each ʒ j. Ginger ʒ ss. Pul Diatrag. frigid. ʒ ij. Diagridium ʒ iij. Turbith ℥ ss. Senny ʒ v. Sugar ℥ x. Let this Electuary be made into Tablets, every one weighing ℥ ss. which is the just dose.

The COMMENTARY.

This laxative Electuary of Oranges, is a Catholical, or Univer∣sal Cathartick: for it draws both the Biles and Phlegm potently, and without molestation; especially that which we described first: wherein every Purgative hath its castigator, as Senny, Fennel, Tur∣bith, Ginger, Diagridium, condite Orange-Pill, Conserves, and Rose-water, wherein the Sugar is cocted: All which roborate the heart and faculties, and mitigate the said Purgatives. The Powder of Diatragacanthum is put in to leniate, the Sugar to deterge, leni∣ate, and conserve.

VVe have also added four times the quantity of Orange-Pill, both because it is its basis, and because it recreates the principal parts of the body. VVe also thought good to augment the quantity of Diagridium, to bear some proportion with the rest: otherwise, its Purgative faculty being already imbecile, would be made more

impotent by the increment of the Conserves: the Basis then of the Medicament, the roboratives, purgatives, and castigatories being by us rightly described, the whole, as amended, may be of most safe, easie, and approved use.

The Sugar should be cocted a little below the consistence of a so∣lid Electuary, because of the quantity of powders.

It is of very much use: for it much conduces in tertian and semitertain Agues; purges the stomack, expels the prave hu∣mours abiding in the Hypochondria; takes away loathsomness to∣wards meat, emends the ill disposition of the body, roborates the heart and ventricle, and absumes the excrementitious humidity of the bowels.

VVe purpose in our next book, to treat of Trochisks, which are all roborative, or alliotical, or alterative; save some few, which are purgative: of which, our method leads us to treat briefly in this Section.

CHAP. 4. Trochisci de Rhabarbaro; or, Trochisks of Rhabarb.

℞ of the best Rhabarb ʒ x. of the Juyce of Egrimony, bitter Almonds, of each ℥ ss. Rose-leaves ʒ iiij. Spikenard, Anise-seed, Madder-roots, Wormwood, * 1.105 Asarabacca, Smallage-seed, of each ʒ j. Let them be formed according to Art into Troches, every one weighting ʒ j.

The COMMENTARY.

Few such Pastils are kept in Pharmacopolies, seeing when use calls for them, Medicks can take some Rhabarb, and mix it with simples fit for their purpose: but prudent Apothecaries, who are not given to avarice, will not want such; whose use is salutary, and description good.

But that they may be duly made, the Rhabarb and Folesfoot must first be brayed small, that they may better pervade the Liver, the in∣fractures of the Mesentery, and the passages of the Uterus and Reins: The rest must also be pulverated very small, and made into a mass, with a sufficient quantity of the succe of Egrimony, where∣of Trochisks of any figure may be formed. If the definite quantity of Egrimonies succe be not sufficient for the receipt of the powders, it may be augmented, that all may be better subacted; and the Tro∣chisks, when concinnated, must be dryed and kept.

Trochisks of Rhabarb are good against the cold and bilious af∣fections, * 1.106 the obstructions, dolours, tumours, and depraved actions of the Liver: they help also the present or the imminent Dropsie, and the Jaundies.

CHAP. 5. Trochisci de Agarico; or, Trochisks of Agarick. D.Gal.

℞ of the whitest Agarick grated small ℥ ij. or as much as thou pleasest: macerate it in white-wine, in which there hath been Ginger infused, and thereof make a soft mass, and of it, Troches; which when dry, let them be again pulverated, and with the same wine, again re∣dacted to a paste; of which form Troches for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

Agarick is variously prepared by Mesue, with sweet Wine, with Oxymel of Squills, with gemmeous Salt, with Whey of Milk, with Carrets, and other simples.

Galen forms it into Trochisks, with lesser, easier, and more com∣modious Preparation; which being of much use in Pharmacy, we have here described, and approve of these as best: some mix gem∣meous Salt with them, that with its weight it may compel the Aga∣rick to the bottom of the Ventricle, that by its abstersive faculty it may help purgation, and excite its slow faculty: But Ginger and Wine do not onely serve to promote its vomitory quality, but also stimulate its purgative faculty; attenuate viscid and crass humours, and attract them from remoter parts. Ginger also, by the tenuity of its parts, causes perviation; for the Agarick, by its heat, helps pur∣gation, and by its aromaticity, recreates the Ventricle, heart, and noble parts; as Wine also, which by its ponderous substance cohi∣bits the levity of the Agarick: by reason whereof, it delabes slow∣ly to the bottom of the Ventricle; and the supernatant is sometimes solely excluded with humours.

Trochisks of Agarick purge pituitous humours, * 1.107 not onely from the first region of the Body, but from remote parts also, if taken in larger quantity.

CHAP. 6. Trochisci Alhandal; or, Trochisks of Coloquintida. D. Mes.

℞ of the pulp of Coloquintida purged from its seeds ℥ x. let it be cut small, and rubbed with ℥ j. of Oyl of Roses, Gumme-Arabick, Thra∣ganth, Bdellium, of each ʒ vj. macerate them three or four dayes in Rose-water, or so long till they be perfectly dissolved; then with the aforesaid pulp, and part of this mussilage, make it into Trochisks; which dry in the shade, and keep.

The COMMENTARY.

Trochisks of Coloquintida or Alhandal, as the Arabians have, may be with success injected into all compositions which receive Coloquintida; for this cannot be assumed simply, and uncastigated, without molestation; but formed into Trochisks, and concinnated with others, with safety: for thus prepared, it ingredes the compo∣fition of other Medicaments, whose faculties it acuates, and makes them educe phlegm, and other crass and viscid humours more potently.

But that these Trochisks may be right made, the whitest and light pulp of Coloquintida must be selected, and not onely incided, but pulverated small: being crass, and introsumed, it moves the Dysentery, and abrades the intestines from such portions as are con∣tained in its gyres and anfractures. Mesue in his old Book pre∣scribes onely ʒ x. of the pulp of Coloquintida; but the place is suspected for erroneous, and ʒ x. put for ℥ x. for otherwise the quantity of Bdellium, and other Gummes, of each whereof he hath put ʒ ij. must be lessened; which is no more then sufficient for ten ounces.

These Trochisks potently purge viscid phlegm, * 1.108 and other glu∣tinous humours; and therefore conduce much to the cholical do∣lour arising from vitreous and viscid phlegm; they cure the Apo∣plexy, Vertigo, Epilepsie, difficulty of breathing, and cold and ar∣thritical Diseases, not yielding to common Medicaments.

We shall in the sequent Book treat of other alterative and tobo∣rative Trochisks, and solid Purgatives, as Pills.

SECT. IV. Of Pills.

WE have in the former Sections given liquid and solid Electuaries, accommodated to all diseases and morbifical causes. Now our Me∣thod leads us to treat of Pills, which many prefer before all other Medica∣ments. And here we shall begin with such as receive nothing that is Pur∣gative, but Aloes; then pass to such as admit Aloes and Agarick; then to such as receive Rhabarb, then Senny, then Turbith, Diagridium, Coloquin∣tida, or some more potent Cathartick. We begin with Aloes, because it is the Basis of all or most Pills; and because it recreates the bowels and noble parts, and can scarce be otherwise introsumed: for being very bitter and ingrate∣ful, it can scarce be assumed in a liquid potion, but is given in form of Pills, that it may be more easily devoured; as we have shewn in Chap. 14. Book 3. of our Institutions.

CHAP. 1. Pilulae stomachicae; Stomachical, or Pills before Meat. D.Mes.

℞ of the best Aloes ʒ vj. Mastick, Roses, of each ʒ ij. with Syrupe of Roses, or Wormwood, make it into a solid mass.

The COMMENTARY.

All Pills which receive of Purgatives onely Aloes, or Aloes and Rhabarb, being clement, and drawing humours onely from the first region, and helping the stomack, are called Stomachical, or Pills before meat; because they may at any time, a little before meat, be safely taken: of which sort are those Aloes in the succe of Roses, coacted into a mass with Wine; as also those of Scaliger, Ruffus, and Pills of Hiera. But these we have given, being most usual, and easie to make, may serve for a rule, for all stomachical Pills that should be kept in Pharmacopolies: but they should be made onely in small quantity, that they may be alwayes new and fresh; for by long keeping they become too dry, and their faculties duller. The mass must be involved in a piece of Leather well oyled, and then reposed in a Tin-pot well shut.

All Pills and other Purges should be given on an empty stomack, especially such as should draw noxious humours from remoter parts, which may be assumed long before or after meat, as after the first sleep; but stomachical Pills not so: for it is enough that they be taken one hour before break-fast, or other meals, that the Belly may be gently subduced, and phlegm, or other prave humours, con∣tained in the Ventricle, or other vicine parts, be educed, * 1.109 which all stomachical Pills effect, roborating the stomack, resarciating the ap∣petite, and exciting it to rest.

CHAP. 2. Pilulae Ruffi; commonly called Pestilential.

℞ of the best Aloes ℥ ij. Myrrhe ℥ j. Saffron ℥ ss. and with the best * 1.110 Oinomel, make it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

There is scarce any Medicament, but it is by some changed from that it was by its Author at first made. These Pills are com∣pounded by few, but variously changed by many: for some adde a third part of Myrrhe, others a fourth, and some onely an eighth: some mix Saffron and Myrrhe in equal weight; others take onely half as much Saffron as Myrrhe, and half as much Myrrhe as Aloes: according to which opinion, most famous Medicks pre∣scribe, and we have formed our description.

Rondeletius denies, that Ruffus was the Inventor of these Pills; for he tradited a Potion, rather then Pills, as Paulus Aegineta evidences. He indeed described a certain Medicament of Aloes, Myrrhe, and Ammoniacum Storax, brayed in odorate Wine, which he calls a Potion: yet he exhibits it in the magnitude of a Bean, which concords not with potulent measures, but an usual expression for the quantity of solid things. And hence the later age, upon good grounds, pronounces Ruffus the Author of these Pills. VVe substitute generous Oinomel, in stead of aromatical VVine, for the reception of the Powders, which is more conve∣nient; for if they should be subacted onely with VVine, the mass would acquire a stony hardness. Syrupe of VVormwood is also a fit recipient for them.

Ruffus his Pills are called Pestilential, * 1.111 because they conduce rather to the prevention, then curation of the Pestilence; for Aloes frees the Body from excrements, Myrrhe vindicates it from putretude, and Saffron recreates the heart and vital facul∣ties: but they very little profit when the Pestilence is begun; for then more cordial, potent, and alexipharmacal Medicaments are required.

CHAP. 3. Pills of Mastick.

℞ of Mastick ℥ ss. Aloes ʒ x. Agarick ʒ iij. mix these with vinous Hydromel into a solid mass.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue calls all the Pills that receive Mastick, Stomachical, where∣of he gives not onely various descriptions: But his Commenta∣tors, and such as wrote of the same Subject, and promulgated Antidotaries also, one while augmenting the Aloes, another time the Agarick, sometimes the Mastick, or else diminishing or ad∣jecting.

The description we have here given, is more usual and safe; whereunto, if you adde a little Diamoschum, they will be Pills of Aloes, according to the vulgar edition: But the Agarick should be first brayed; as also the Aloes and Mastick, and subacted with Hydromel, rather then with Wine, both for efficacy and conservation.

It is thought, that Petrus de Abano was their Author, who would not denominate them from their exuberant Aloes, lest many Pills of the same name should be confounded.

They purge the stomack gently, roborate excellently, * 1.112 detract and expel all excrementitious humours from the Abdomen with∣out molestation; cure the dolour of the head, and many affections of the Uterus.

CHAP. 4. Pilulae de tribus Solutivis; or, Pills of the three Solutives.

℞ of Rhabarb, Aloes, Agarick, of each ʒ iij. after they are beaten fine, take Syrupe of Roses solutives, as much as will suffice to bring it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

These are called the Pills of the three Solutives, because they con∣sist onely of three Purgative Simples, and Syrupe of Roses, which indeed is purgative, but not simple. They are indeed more valid∣ly stomachical then the former, because of the Agarick; which, if it be first made into Trochisks, as it should be, will be more incisive and attenuative, but less vomitory: The manner of their prepara∣tion is easier, then that it should need explication.

They purge bilious, pituitous, * 1.113 crass and viscid humours from the Ventricle, cavities of the Liver and Spleen, and from the Mesentery; they roborate the stomack, and revoke appetite: and let this serve for more that might be said of them.

CHAP. 5. Pilulae Imperiales D. Fern. or, Fernelius his Imperial Catholical Pills.

℞ of the best Aloes ℥ ij. choyce Rhabarb ℥ j. ss. Agarick trochiscated, Senny picked, of each ℥ j. Cinamon ʒ iij. Ginger ʒ ij. Nutmegs, Cloves, Spikenard, Mastick, of each ʒ j. and with Syrupe of Violets, let them be subacted into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

The Author did not without reason give this egregious denomi∣nation to these Pills, which from the multiplicity of their faculties, and their benignity in acting, merit a more noble title. They may al∣so be called Catholical Pills, because they universally expurge all hu∣mours from all parts, as the Liver, Spleen, Ventricle, Brain; and if in greater quantity, from parts farther dissited.

Nic. Praepositus describes more of the same name, which are sel∣dome made, because they consist of more things, and are less ef∣ficacious.

These Imperial Pills of Fernelius, * 1.114 purge, roborate, and liberate all the bowels from infarctures, educe all noxious and obvious hu∣mours, and help the oeconomy of all nutritive parts.

CHAP. 6. Pilulae de Eupatorio majores; or, The greater Pills of Egrimony.

℞ of yellow Myrabolans, the Juyces of Egrimony and Wormwood, of each ʒ iij. Rhabarb ʒ iij. ss. Mastick ʒ j. Saffron ʒ ss. Aloes ʒ v. of the Juyce, or rather Syrupe of Endive, as much as will suffice to bring it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue describes two forms of these Pills; the former which we have here inserted, he calls the greater, the other the lesser; which are seldome (as both indeed) prepared. But these being very com∣mendable for the Jaundies, and all obstructions of the Liver, should be kept in Pharmacopolies, that it might go better with the diseased. They should rather be denominated from Rhabarb, which is the Basis in the composition: But Authors put names upon the compounds they invent, rather according to their own wills, then valid reason.

For the due making of them, the succe of true Egrimony and

Wormwood should by evaporation be inspissated, exsiccated, and afterwards pulverated; then mixed with other Medicaments, bray∣ed apart; then all subacted into a fit mass, with Syrupe of Endive or Succory. They act perperously, who following Mesue's advice, put the Powders into water of Endive, and so coact them into a mass.

These greater Pills of Egrimony do not onely cure the Jaundies, * 1.115 but periodical and circularly-reiterated Fevers also.

CHAP. 7. Pilulae sine quibus esse nolo; or, Pills without which I would not be. D. Nic. Praepos.

℞ of the best Aloes ʒ xiiij. the five sorts of Myrobalans, Rhabarb, Senny, Agarick trochiscated, Mastick, Wormwood, Dodder, Rose-leaves, Violets, of each ʒ j. Diagridium ʒ vj. ss. Honey despumed with the Juyce of Fennel, as much as suffices to bring it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

These are also Universal, as well as the Imperial; but more cho∣lagogous and valid, because of their Diagridium. Their denomi∣nation being noted by a certain circumlocution, shew the efficacy and necessity of their use, which no man, or Master of a Family, that mindes his sanity, should be without. Their ingredients are such as deduce humours from all principal parts of the Body, and roborate those parts. Rheubarb is their Basis, if we respect their better part; Scammony, if their more valid and exuperant; and Myrabolambs, if the weight of fruits.

That they may be duly made, Scammony, Aloes, Agarick, and Mastick should be pulverated apart; the rest partly alone, and part∣ly together. They must not be subacted with the water or succe of Fennel, as the Author would; but with Honey, that they may not too soon become dry and marcid.

These Pills educe Phlegm, and both the Biles, from all parts, * 1.116 but especially from the head, eyes, and senses: and thence they lessen the suffusions of the eyes, conserve sight, and cure the pain and noise in the ears.

CHAP. 30. Pilulae Aureae; or, Golden Pills. D.N.Myr.

℞ of the best Aloes and Diagridium, of each ʒ v. of red Roses and Smallage-seed, of each ʒ ij. ss. the seeds of Anise and sweet Fennel, ef each ʒ j. ss. Powder of Coloquintida, Saffron, and Mastick, of each ʒ j. and with Gumme-Thraganth dissolved in Rose-water, or rather

with Honey of Roses; make it up into a mass of a legitimate con∣sistence.

The COMMENTARY.

Nic. Praepositus doth justly insult over Nic. Myrepsus, the Author of these Pills, That he described so great a quantity of Diagridium, insomuch that the place is suspected of Errour; where I believe he would have said ℈ v. not ʒ v. which may be gathered from his very words, in the end of this 107 Chapter, where defining the dosis of these Pills, he thus writes: Let them be made like a Pease, with the water of the infusion of Tragacantha, and nine or eleven of them taken at night with Mulse or Wine: for this quantity is at least ʒ j. ss. or ʒ ij. which admits of almost ʒ ss. of Diagridium. However, use hath so prevailed, that they are made according to the manner described: yet with this rule, That they be exhibited in a just and idoneous weight, according to the Medicks prudence, and diseased's strength; to whom, if four or five grains of Diagridium would purge him, so much of these Pills must be given, as receives just so much Diagridium.

Nic. Praepositus did well in the adjection of Mastick, for the robo∣ration of the Ventricle, against the attact of such violent Purga∣tives. Tragacanthum is also justly commixed, to mitigate the fe∣rity of Scammony: but the Trochisks of Alhandal were safer, then Coloquintida uncastigated; all must be pulverated small, and coacted into a mass of a legitimate consistence, with Honey of Roses: for so it will be softer, then if it had been subacted with the dissolved Gumme of Tragacantha.

They are called Golden Pills, rather from their croceous colour, then their excellent effect: for all Medicaments which potently subduce the Belly, and validly expurge humours, are not presently denominated aureous or eximious, but such onely as with facility, and without molestation, extract noxious ones.

Golden Pills are very cholagogous; * 1.117 for they potently draw Bile and Phlegm also, not onely from the inferiour, but also superiour Ventricle, and the head; and thence they purge the senses, and acuate the eye-sight.

CHAP. 9. Pilulaede Agarico; or, Pills of Agarick. D. Avic.

℞ of Agarick ʒ iij. Orris-root, Horehound, of each ʒ j. Turbith, Hierae Picrae, of each ʒ iiij. Coloquintida, Sarcocollae, of each ʒ ij. Myrrhe ʒ j. mingle it with as much Sape as will suffice to make it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

Nic. Praepositus addes Mastick to these Pills; the Commentators upon Mesue like not of it: Fernelius approves of its use, and tran∣scribes their description out of Praepositus. Joubertus disapproves of it, but gives no reason. I think it is neither hurtful, nor greatly profitable: for if it be exploded, the Ventricle cannot want robo∣ratives, as long as Hiera, Myrrhe, Sape, and Orris, ingrede the com∣pound: if it be admitted, it will neither obtund the faculties of the other, nor much better them.

Their first Author was Avicenna, who described them with Myrrhe; which Mesue omits, as Bauderonius observes in his Book, where he describes Agarick and Coloquintida, without any express preparation: But it is best to take them both, when made into Trochisks, and so bray and mix them. The Powder of Galens Hierae Sacra must be taken with Honey, white Horehound selected, and the Root of that Orris, whose flower is caeruleous, which Avicenna calls the Celestial Lilly. The Purgatives must be pulverated apart; the rest partly so, partly together; and then all mixed together with Sape.

Pills of Agarick purgeth phlegm potently from all parts, * 1.118 condu∣ces to the head and breast; and thence cures the sleepy Disease, Catarrhs, Vertigo, and such affections as proceed from cold hu∣mours, but especially difficult breathing; for which end Avicenna invented them.

CHAP. 10. Pilulae Cochiae, D. Rhasis.

℞ of the Powder of simple Hierae ʒ x. Coloquintida ʒ iij. ℈ j. Scam∣mony prepared ʒ ij. ss. Turbith, Stoechados, of each ʒ v. and with Sy∣rupe of Staechados make it up into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

The Pills of Cochia, are not so called simply from the grain which the Greeks call 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, but because they are round and small like Pepper-corns; after which manner, all Pills were wont to be made: and though they be now greater, yet we give them the same name, as well as the same description. Some think them excessively purgative, because of the greater quantity of Diagridium. And seeing Pharmacopolists should have gentle purges for such as are delicate, and valid ones for the stronger; I would have made them as Rhasis hath described them; for they may be given in such small quantity, that they will not over-purge the Belly, but educe onely noxious humours.

Some doubt in their mixtion, whether Galens Hiera Picra should be taken, or some other made: We, for many reasons, which for brevities sake we omit, judge no other Hiera more convenient, valid, or better: but it is safer to admit the Trochisks of Alhandal, then Coloquintida, unprepared; and if Syrupe of Stoechas be not in readiness, which indeed few keep; then the Powders may be sub∣acted in Honey, with the decoction of Stoechas despumed, and coct∣ed to the consumption of its a queous humidity. They are made as the precedents.

These Pills purge partly bilious, * 1.119 partly pituitous humours; not onely from the head, because of Stoechas, which is more hepatical then cephalical; but also from other parts, wherein such humours are contained, for they potently educe them from any part.

CHAP. 11. Pilulae de Hermodactylis majore; or, The greater Pills of Hermodactyls. D. Mes.

℞ of Hermodacts, Aloes, yellow Myrabolans, Turbith, Coloquintida, Bdellium, Sagapenum, of each ʒ vj. Castor, Sarcocolla, Euphorbium, Opoponax, the seeds of Rue and Smallage, of each ʒ iij. Saffron ʒ j. ss. with the Juyce of Coleworts make them into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

These Pills, which take their names from Hermodactyls, are very usual, and onely sufficient for the inveterate dolours of the arteries, and more efficacious therein, then those we call arthetical Pills: yea, they are more securely sanative, then such as are denominated from Sagapenum, Opoponax, or Sarcocolly; so that we shall not need to describe these.

For their due preparation, Sagapenum and Opoponax must be melted in the succe of Coleworts; then transmitted through a li∣nen cloth, and then a little cocted; then must the Powders of other simples be mixed in the succe cocted with Honey; and all brayed, subacted, and handled by hands anointed with oyl together, till they acquire a due consistence: They may also be rightly subacted with the Eclegm of Cauls.

Pills of Hermodactyls potently evel crass and serous humours from all extream parts, * 1.120 but especially from the articles; and con∣duce to the cold diseases of the head, nerves, and junctures.

CHAP. 12. Pilulae Agregativae, seu Polychrestae; Agregative, or Pills of much use. D. Mes.

℞ of Aloes, Turbith, of each ʒ vj. of Diagridium ʒ v. of Rhabarb, and yellow Myrabolans, of each ʒ iiij. of the whitest Agarick, Troch. Alhandal, Polypody, Chebulan, and Indian Myrabolans, of each ʒ ij. Mastick, Rose-leaves, Dodder of Thyme, Anise-seed, Ginger, Sal Gem, of each ʒ ʒ j. Juyce of Egrimony and Wormwood, of each ʒ ij. with the Syrupe of the Juyce of Damask-Roses, make it up into a mass to keep.

The COMMENTARY.

We hold to the ancient description of Mesue, and change onely the order of the Simples, and substitute the Syrupe of Roses, for the subaction of the composition, in stead of the Electuary of Roses.

Mesue gives three descriptions of Pills of this name; the first whereof is most usual, and prepared almost in all Shops; the other two, both greater and lesser agregatives, are omitted. They are called agregative Pills, because of the agregation of many facul∣ties; as also Polychrestae, and Catholical, because they are of much use, and expurge all humours.

The manner of their mixtion is manifest; the roots must be first brayed, then the fruits, and afterwards the seeds; onely Rhabarb and Agarick must be prepared apart, the Trochisks whereof are bet∣ter then the simple. The succe of Egrimony and Wormwood dry∣ed and brayed, must be added thereunto; then all being duly pul∣verated, must be subacted into a mass, with the Syrupe of pale Ro∣ses, which must be involved in leather madefied with Oyl of Al∣monds. And it is not unreasonable, that the Powders should be received in the Syrupe of pale Roses; partly, because it accedes nearest the minde of the Author, for nothing is liker Roses then Roses; and partly, because that Electuary of Roses, which Mesue mentions, is not now made in shops, seeing its composition is inept, and of no use.

Agregative Pills are not onely conducible to many affections of the head, but also of the Ventricle and Liver: * 1.121 for from these parts they detract and purge pituity, Bile, and Melancholical succe; and therefore help in complex and inveterate Fevers, and complicated diseases. He may be without the Pills of eight things, and five kindes of Myrabolambs, that hath agregative ones.

CHAP. 13. Pilulae de Fumaria; or, Pills of Fumatory. D. Avic.

℞ of Citrian, Chebulan, and Indian Myrabolans, Scammony prepared ʒ v. Aloes ʒ vij. and with the Juyce of Fumatory, make it into a mass; which when dryed, let it be again beaten up with the same Juyce, and the third time with the Syrupe of Fumatory.

The COMMENTARY.

These Pills are denominated from Fumatory, in whose succe their Powders must be twice or thrice imbuted, and then dryed as oft, according to their Authors prescript; and at length received, not into the same succe, as many ignorantly conjecture, but into honey, wherein this succe hath been by longer coction dissipated, or rather into the Syrupe of Fumatory, which is better, and more agreeable to the Authors minde: For unless the mass be subacted in the one of these, or such a like liquor, the powders will soon arefie. The manner of their preparation is easie, and apparent enough by the description.

Pills of Fumatory purge bilious and sharp humours, * 1.122 salt phlegm, and other adust and melancholical humours, from which many vi∣ces of the skin, as Scab, Itch, Tetters, and the like, arise.

CHAP. 14. Pilulae de Lapide Lazuli; or, Pills of the Azure-stone. D.Mes.

℞ of Lapis Lazuli prepared ʒ vj. Polypody, Dodder of Thyme, Agarick, of each ℥ j. black Hellebore, Scammony, Sal Gem. of each ʒ ij. ss. Cloves, Anise-seeds, of each ℥ ss. Hierae Picrae ℥ xv. and with Sy∣rupo Regis Saboris, make it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

That every humour might have its peculiar Cathartick, we have exhibited these Pills described by Mesue, to educe the melancholi∣cal humour. They are denominated from the Azure-stone, which is their Basis; which participating of some alien and vomitory qua∣lity, needs some antecedent preparation: but it must not be burn∣ed, as in the confection of Alkermes, lest its purgative faculty pe∣rish, but pulverated very small, and ten or twelve times washed, first in common water, then in the water of Bugloss, or the like: after each lotion, it must be dryed, and these courses iterated, till it depose its vomitory quality, and retain onely its dejective and ro∣borative.

Its manner of preparation, is all one with the former; we sub∣stitute gemmeous, in stead of Indian salt, which we want; and King Sabors Syrupe, in stead of the water of Endive: for hereby the powders will be more commodiously subacted, and the mass hence concinnated, more safely kept, of a better consistence, more excellent faculties, and more apt to educe Melancholical humours.

These Pills help the Leprosie, Canker, quartane Fever, * 1.123 and all diseases that arise from Melancholical humours, or adust Bile; their faculties are the same, but better then the Pills of Indies have, which such may want as keep these.

CHAP. 15. Pilulae Asajeret. D. Avic.

℞ of Mastick, yellow Myrabolans, of each ℥ ss. Hierae Picrae ℥ j. of the best Aloes ℥ ij. and with Syrupe of Stoechados, make it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

These Pills are also desumed from Avicenna, who calls them sometimes Asahajaret, sometimes Sejar; and prescribes them partly to the head, partly to the ventricle: but they draw little from parts more remote, seeing they admit not of such things as potently de∣duce cold humours.

The powder of Galens Hiera Picra must be desumed to their con∣fection, and not Hiera in form of an Electuary: The Myrabolambs may be purged from their stones, and brayed apart; then Chian Ma∣stick, then the Aloes; all must be received in the Syrupe of Stoechas, and made into a mass.

These Pills are indeed chalagogous, and much profit the impure and languid ventricle; and by consequence, benefit the head, and cure such affections as arise from some sympathy with the stomack, and lowest ventricle.

Pills of Hiera being almost of the same faculties, * 1.124 and easie to be made of the powder of Hiera (which is kept in all Pharmaco∣polies) by the addition of the Honey of Roses, or the like, in a sufficient quantity, need no particular description; nor those also which take both their name and matter from Benedicta, which are seldome or never used; for they are onely nominally eximious, as many Chymical confections, as Aqua Benedicta, Spiritus Aureus, Eli∣xir Vitae, &c.

CHAP. 16. Pilulae Alephanginae; or, Aromatical or sweet Pills.

℞ Cinamon, Cloves, Cardamomes, Nutmegs, Mace, Calamus Aromati∣cus;

Galangal, yellow Sanders, Squinant, Rose-leaves, of each ℥ ss.

These must be brayed pretty crassly, and macerated twelve hours in four pounds of water; then boyl••d on a slow fire, till the third part be absumed: one pound of Aloes must be dissolved in the co∣lature; and when the aqueous humidity is spent by hot ashes, Sun, or an Hypocauste, adde

Myrrhe, Mastick, of each ℥ ss. Saffron ℥ ij. Syrupe of Wormwood, as much as will suffice to make it into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

We retain a great part of the materials of sweet Pills described by Mesue: but we have added Galangal, as most convenient, and detracted the most rare and dear ingredients, as Carpo-balsamum, Xylo-aloes, Cubebs, and the useless ones, as Asarum. We do not allow of Aloes washed in rain-water, because it makes it imbecile: neither do we approve of the quantity of Aromata's and water, wherein they should be cocted, as defined by Mesue: for seeing Aro∣mata's endure not coction, without the loss of their vertues; what need is there of cocting them in twelve pounds of water, to the ab∣sumption of seven pounds thereof? This is useless and noxious la∣bour: but if they must be onely lightly cocted, to what end is so much water? and if the third part of the water will serve, why not the third part of the Aromata's also?

In this our description, we have the faculties and vertues of the third part of the Aromata's, better then we should have them out of the whole designed by Mesue, and confected after his rite, who with the absumption of the water, absumes more of the Aromata's fa∣culties: We have in stead of Wormwood, substituted its Syrupe, for the better coalition of the mass, lest it grow too dry, or contract chinks and marcour.

Thus we have castigated Mesue's sweet Pills, or rather exhibited our own, which are easier to make, better, and of lesser charges: to which, if the maker shall put a little of the liquor of Balm, they shall exceed all Pills in roborating the stomack.

Sweet Pills are most customachical, * 1.125 and roborate the nervous parts best: for they at once purge crass, putrid, pituitous, and bi∣lious humours from the ventricle and vicine parts, and recreate the same; preserve native heat, help coction, discuss flatulency, dispel crudities, resarciate appetite, help cholical dolours, and conduce to old and frigid men at all times, to bilious and young men onely in winter.

CHAP. 17. Pilulae de Nitro; or, Pills of Nitre. D.Alex.Tral.

℞ of Aloes, Coloquintida, Scammony prepared, black Hellebore, Bdel∣lium, Gumme Arabick, of each ʒ ij. Euphorbium, Nitre, of each ʒ j. and with Juyce of Coleworts or Rhodomel, make it up into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

The later age retains the old description of Tralian's Pills, but not the name: for one calls them Pills of Coloquintida, another of Nitre; and this puts more of Nitre in them, the other more of Co∣loquintida. But seeing reason and use have better approved of the weight of simples described by the more Recent, we shall follow the Ancients in the materials, but the Recents in the proportion and weight of these materials.

Now for their confection, prepared Coloquintida, that is, Tro∣chisks of Alhandal, must be taken. Bdellium must be dissolved, percolated, and cocted in the calified succe of Brassica, till the succe be consumed; then must the rest be mixed, and a sufficient quan∣tity of the Honey of Roses mixed with them: Euphorbium must not, by the advice of many, be added to the mixture, till thus pre∣pared.

Some quantity of Euphorbium must be taken, pulverated small, with a little Oyl of Almonds rubbed on a stone; like many Colly∣ries; then collected and included in a Quince excavated, and ob∣volved with paste; then cocted in a furnace like Scammony: and thus cocted and repared, preposed for use.

Pills of Nitre move frigid, crass, and viscid humours, * 1.126 from parts more remote: whence they conduce in nervous affections, and help the had loaden with contumacious diseases; as also the Epilepsie, Palsey, Vertigo, and affections of the articles, because they educe both flave and black Bile: some believe they are good against the Indian disease, and thence too licentiously call them Indian Pills.

CHAP. 18. Piluae Mechoacanae.

℞ of Mechoacan ℥ ss. Turbith ʒ iij. Spurge-olive macerated in vine∣gar and dryed, the seeds of Dwarf-Elder, Agarick trochiskized, of each ʒ ij. the roots of * 1.127 Milwort prepared, Mastick, of each ʒ j. ss. Cinamon, and Sal Gem, of each ℈ ij.

Let them all be made into powder, that same subacted into a mass with white-wine; then let that be dryed and brayed, and again co∣agulated with the succe of the celestial Orris, which dry, and bray

again; and then make into paste with the Syrupe of Damask-Roses, and repose it for use.

The COMMENTARY.

Practical Medicks seek out of Dispensatories, as out of a foecund and fertile Garden, all kindes of Medicaments, for the deletion of all diseases; but they finde a great part of them described without Art or Reason, and onely convenient for few diseases: yea, some∣times ten Medicaments indued with the same faculties, and discri∣minated onely by divers names. But we have, according to the di∣versities of diseases and humours, tradited divers Medicaments, de∣sumed not onely out of vulgar Dispensatories, but out of the Wri∣tings of many grave men: besides which, we do also exhibit some, proved salutiferous by Reason, Experience, and successful Event; as these Pills prescribed for the Dropsie, which having Mechoacan for their Basis, from thence mutuate their denomination, which is of Simples most praepollent, for educing water by stool. Besides which, there are five more Hydragogous Ingredients, which being all united together, with some cordial and stomachical ones, potent∣ly educe serous and watry humours, without laesion of the ventricle, not onely from the Belly, but all parts of the Body. I shall not need to adde the seeds of Keruy, or Palma Christi, and Soldanella, see∣ing these are enough; nor yet subjoyn the manner of their prepa∣ration, seeing it is very easie.

These Pills educing potently aqueous and serous humours, * 1.128 cure the Dropsie, and all diseases arising from watry phlegm.

CHAP. 19. Pilulae Foetidae. D. Mes.

℞ of Sagapenum Ammoniacum, Opoponax, Bdellium, Coloquintida, Rue-seed, Aloes, * 1.129 Dodder of Thyme, of each ʒ v. Turbith ℥ ss. Sca••∣mony ʒ iij. () Milkwort, or Seaspurge prepared, Hermodacts, of each ʒ ij. Ginger ʒ j. ss. Cinamon, Spikenard, Saffron, Castoreum, of each ʒ j. Euphorbium ℈ ij. Dissolve the gummes in the Juyce of Leeks, and with it make the powders into a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

They are called foetid Pills, not because they educe foetid hu∣mours, as some think, but because they consist of foetid Medica∣ments; as Beavers-stones, wilde Rue, Sagapene, Opoponax, and the like. Rhasis, and other Arabians, give other descriptions of them; but we retain this onely as the best, which Mesue calls the greater, in reference to a lesser description, which we omitted; as less efficacious.

None, I believe, doubt, whether the seed of wilde Rue, or of Hemlock, should rather ingrede the composition of foetid Pills: for doubtless, Hemlock-seed is poyson; though one Constantinus inter∣prets the Arabian words Harmeli, or Harmela, Hemlock-seed, when all others say they are wilde Rue-seed; in whose stead, vulgar Rues∣seed may be well substituted.

The Hermodactyls should be exotical, whose roots are tubeous and crass, not rugose; which by small contusion might be reduced to farinaceous powder.

They act perperously, who take Ephemerian, or Colchian, or our Hermodactyls, whose roots are flaccid; for their qualities are not commendable, but noxious, killing by small and short suffoca∣tion: whence they are called Strangulatories. The best Hermoda∣ctyl comes from Syria, and is thence called the Syrian Hermodactyl. Esula should be prepared as we have taught before; the Gummes must be melted, percolated, and cocted in the succe of Leeks; and the Powders must be adjected, mixed, and subacted with these, which must be handled with hands madefied with Oyl of Almonds, involved in Leather, and reposed in a Tin-box for use.

Foetid Pills are of much use, for they evacuate frigid, pituitous, * 1.130 crude, and also bilious humours; and thence cure such affections as arise from thence; as the diseases of the Junctures, Podagry, Gonagry, Dolours in the Back-bone, Leprosie, Morphews, Itch, cutaneous infections, and cholical affections.

CHAP. 20. Pilulae de Hydragyro; or, Pills of Quicksilver.

℞ of Quicksilver first killed in Juyce of Lemmons, and afterwards nou∣rished in the Juyce of Sage ʒ vj. of the best Aloes ʒ v. Rhabarb ʒ iij. Scammony prepared ʒ ij. Agarick ʒ j. Storax the best, Cinamon, Mace, yellow Sanders, Sarsaperilla, Sassafras, Mosch, of each ʒ ss. Honey despumed in the decoction of Guaiacum, and boyled to the exolution of the aqueous humidity, as much as will suffice to make it into a mass, anointing it with a little Oyl of Turpentine, and wrapping it in a little Bladder for future use.

The COMMENTARY.

That our Antidotary might not be defective, we have not onely elicited Medicaments out of the Monuments of the Ancients, but out of the Writings and Notes of Neotericks, selected and culled what reason and successful event have celebrated; as these Pills of Quicksilver, which the Neotericks usurp, to the expugnation of a new disease: For it is just, that new diseases should have new reme∣dies invented by Reason, and prepared by Art; especially if the in∣ventions of the Ancients fail and prove useless.

Now none, I think, will deny, that the French disease is new, seeing it was never heard of in Europe, before the year 1493. but then brought by Christophorus Columbus, and his associates, from India to Italy, and there communicated to the Italian women; who bring∣ing victuals to the French Souldiers in the Neapolitan siege, with their bodies communicated their disease to the men; which the men retaining after conquest, gave also to other Italian women: from whom their returning husbands, persolving the debt of Matrimo∣ny, catch'd it of their own wives, who had got it of the Frenchmen, the French of Italian women, and they of Columbus his Souldiers.

Hence the Italians were wroth with the French, and in revenge call their disease, The French Pox; and ridiculously make their Books-fronts proclaim Ultion, by denoting the husbands Ignorance, and the wives Whoredom: their Ignorance, in that they knew not the venereous Pox; the womens Whoredom, in that they had con∣course with the French.

Brassavolus, as it should seem, mindeful of this injury done to his Parents, wrote a certain book of this disease, which he calls The French-Pox; wherein he assigns 234 differences thereof: certainly either the honest man there played the Babler, or else so many of his acquaintance and kinswomen were compressed by the French souldiers, who left these Hieroglyphical characters, as eternal signs of their new and quaint marriages. But to my purpose. There are various preparations of the pills of Quicksilver; for each Con∣fectioner and Chirurgeon almost, have their peculiar descriptions, which they keep for hidden Secrets; some whereof will onely by reiteration, move salivation; others frequently usurped, will a little subduce the Belly: but all of them often iterated, move spu∣tation, hurt the nerves, and sometimes cause strangulation. Their use therefore is not safe, unless the Quicksilver be well prepared and castigated, by the admistion of other Medicaments, as Turpen∣tine-Oyl, or such things as we have in this prescript described: The manner of whose preparation is apparent enough by the form; but there are other compounds that admit of Quicksilver: of which hereafter.

These Pills are Catholical, * 1.131 and Alexiterial, seeing they expurge all humours at once, and evince the malign quality of the French-Pox, and radically evel its Vestigia impressed on the parts af∣fected.

CHAP. 21. What Pills a Pharmacopoly may be without.

AS in Civil Law, many old Laws are obsolete, and of no use and vigour to a Magistrate: so in Medicine, many ancient Me∣dicaments are either neglected, or quite disapproved of, as noxious, or at least useless. Some are omitted, because there are others of

the same, or like efficacy and vertue, whereof the best is selected; for it were a sign of folly in a man, if he should prepare and keep all the Medicaments Myrepsus hath designed, who absolving his Work in 1100 Chapters, hath conjoyned two or three descriptions in one Chapter.

Yea, neither Medicks desire, nor Diseases require, that any Apo∣thecary should make and keep all the Medicaments that Aetius, Actuarius, or Praepositus, and others, describe, but onely the more secure, selected, and approved.

Thus in our Antidotary we give onely eximious ones; which if Authors suppeditate not, as they do not for all diseases, we compen∣sate by our own labour and industry, suggesting the most ap∣proved.

We expunge those out of the number of Pills, which they call the greater and lesser Pills of Light, because they consist of much and unapt matter: And because Pills, sine quibus, are of efficacy enough for the affections of the eyes; we have omitted the ancient de∣scription of the Imperials, of the five kinds of Myrobalambs, of the eight Ingredients, and the Arabians Pills, because the agregative are better, and usefull for all such things as the aforesaid are pre∣scribed for.

We have neglected the Indian Pills, and them of the stone Ar∣mentum, because them of the Azure-stone are affine to them, and more efficacious.

We weigh not the Pills of Rhabarb, because ignave, but give them of Egrimony, as more efficacious; with whom they have affinity.

Pills of Hermodactyls exclude the arthretical Pills; and the foetid Pills exclude those that are denominated from Sagapene, Euphor∣bium, and Sarcocolla.

Pills of Mechoacan make them void, which consists of Esula and Mezereon.

Benedict Pills, and Hiera, may be made at any time, seeing pow∣ders are or should be alwayes in readiness in shops: whereof either Electuaries or Pills may be confected at pleasure.

Pills of Bdellium are quite neglected, because they are scarce purgative: in stead, other better, and more roborative Medicaments, easier to be made, may be confected for present use.

I pretermit many more, as unworthy to be named or used; for many men describe many Medicaments, not so much that they con∣sult others sanity, as the augmenting of their Dispensatories grand bulk.

Cathartical Powders being ingrateful, are usually coagmented into liquid or solid Electuaries, or else Pills: yet Empiricks give the powder of Stibium onely in a little Wine, or other liquor; as also the powder of Mercury, wherewith a veneficous Circulator at Lutetia promised the cure of all diseases, openly professing him∣self a Prophet: but the wretch went about many Cities, to

see whom he might devour: he is not worthy to be named. At last he ran away.

All prepare not Quicksilver or Mercury alike: for some include it with Aqua fortis in a Matracy, and exhale the water by sublima∣tion, calling that which remains in the bottom, Powder of Mercu∣ry: It is of a yellowish red colour, and rather caustical then ca∣thartical.

Others prepare it otherwise, but better, thus: They immerge Quicksilver in Aqua fortis, whereinto they inject Brine; then they let the Quicksilver reside, and the water is ejected by inclination; and the crassament that remains, which is whitish, is called Powder of Mercury. But in what proportion it should be mixed, how it may be perfectly dealbated, and with what vertue it is indued, I need not recenseate, lest Empiricks and Pseudopharmacopoeans abuse it: but if it be made as P. Pijardus, a learned Parisian Medick taught, its vertues are eximious and efficacious in curing some Diseases, which will not yield to vulgar Medicaments.

An APPENDIX. Of some Pills not Solutive.

EAch Medicament is by singular dexterity and ingenuity, effin∣ged into a form proper for the diseased. Thus some Purgatives are liquid, others solid, and others in a mean: some Medicaments onely purge, others onely roborate, and others alter, and some per∣form all: but Pills are for the most part purgative; for all of them, except a few, subduce the Belly, and are exhibited especially when supervacaneous succes are to be educed from remote parts: for in such a form and consistence, they abide longer in the ventricle, and their vertue is more easily carried to the parts diseased, and oppres∣sed with excrementitious humours. When therefore we would have a Medicament stay longer in the ventricle, we give it in a solid form; and such are not onely the prescribed purgative Pills, but the Hy∣pnotical and Arterial ones that follow.

CHAP. 22. Pilulae de Cynoglosso; or, Pills of Dogs-tongue.

℞ of Myrrhe ʒ vj. Olibanum ʒ v. the root of Hounds-tongue, Henbane∣seed, Opium, of each ʒ iij. Saffron, Castoreum, of each ʒ j. ss. and with Syrupe of Stoechados, make it up into a mass, which let be conve∣niently reposed for use.

The COMMENTARY.

The Neotericks have retained the old description, but not the name of these Pills: for Mesue their Author calls them from their effect, Pills for all diseases; but these call them Pills of Cyno∣gloss, which is neither for quantity nor quality prepollent therein: perhaps they mistake Cynogloss for Arnogloss, which might more properly give them denomination; for seeing Mesue described them for astriction, Arnogloss being of an astrictive quality, was more convenient; but we, with Fernelius, admit of the new name, and adde Castorium for the castigation of Opium: But we think, that Rho∣dostagm or Rose-water, is altogether inconvenient for the receipt of the powders, if we would have the mass of a legitimate consistence, or fit to be kept; and we substitute in its stead Syrupe of Stcechados, by whose quality the head will be roborated, and armed against the nocuments of Opium, and by its lentour the powders will be coacted into a more idoneous mass: as for its confection, the root of Cy∣nogloss must first be brayed with the seed of Henbane, and then the other simples apart; the brayed Opium must be first subacted by the Syrupe, then the other powders must be mixed, and coacted into a mass.

They conciliate sleep, stay Catarrhs, distillations of the head, * 1.132 the Cough, and such succedent affections: for they cohibit all distil∣lations, whether upon the Breast and Lungs, or Teeth, or elswhere.

CHAP. 23. Of Laudanum.

NOt many years ago, there arose a company of Pseudo-Medicks, who in stead of the usual Pills of Cynogloss, exhibited a cer∣tain confection, which they called Laudanum; whereby they pro∣mised not onely to conciliate sleep, but abigate all diseases. I then saw a Circulator, who boasted by his Laudanum, to revoke men al∣most exanimated or half dead, and man the Encomium of this Medicine so won upon men, that no Empirick so stupid, no Medi∣caster so dull, nor Tonsor so plebeious, but he was a Laudanister, or else not worth flaming.

I wooed some with prayers, some with price, to tell me this Me∣dicament; but found amongst twenty of its descriptions, not one like another: yea, he that was most ignorant, would profess he had the best.

But I heard some Mountebanks exhibit Pills of Cynogloss for Laudanum, extorting for each Pill the weight of half a scruple in gold. And thus were the credulous Plebeians, drawn with new names, and unusual words, circumvented by the subtilty of these rafrous Juglers.

The descriptions of Laudanum given by more perite Alchymists, are seldome and hardly made; for they consist of the best of Gems, Hyacinths, and Corals; of the essence of Saffron and Opium; of the Oyls of Cinamon, Cloves; Liquor of Margarites, Powder of Unicorns-horn, of the Bezar-stone, Amber-grise, and other precious stones: and doubtless a confection of these materials must needs be eximious: and I approve of the learned rich Alchymists acts, who make, keep, and exhibit this to the diseased: but alas! the improbous do so impose upon us, that we can scarce give the honest and good. I saw a certain Laudanum exhibited by a learned Princely Medick, which wrought happy effects.

This sequel one is eximious, and easie to be made.

℞ of the extract of the Pills of Hounds-tongue ʒ ij. * 1.133 the extract of the Roman Philonium, and T••ed••le, of each ℥ j. Amber, Mosch, of each ℈ ss. Bezoar-stone, Monoceros born, of each gr. vj. Saffron ℈ j. and with oy of Cloves make it up into Laud••••••m.

There might be innumerable descriptions thereof given: for every one, though meanly learned, strives to adde or detract at pleasure; either for the fame, or imitation of other opiate Medicaments, as of Philonium, by which na••e Crato designed Laudanum, which he held to be nothing but a certain Philo••ium, which many Alchy∣mists take for the basis of their Laudanum; and by adding magis••e∣ries, essences, and tin••••••es, make an hypnotical Medicament, more commendable then the vulgar Philonium. But I admire most, that every one changes the form of his Medicament, and that none can know which is the genuine, true, and best description thereof: which some take from Paracelsus, others from Keckius; some from Andernacus, others from Brunerius; and others from others: and alwayes change something, that they may be thought the first Au∣thors. I could here adduce many descriptions, but it would be use∣less labour. The Chymists call it Laudanum, as though it were the most laudable Medicament; which they sometimes call also Ne∣penthe.

Of Bechicall Pills. CHAP. 24. Pill. Bechicae Nigrae; or, black Bechical Pills. D.Mes.

℞ of the jayce of Liquorice, white Sugar, of each ʒ vj. Starch, Traga∣canth, sweet Almonds, blanched and beaten, of each ʒ iij. and with the the musilidge of Quince seeds made in Rose water, make thereof a mass.

The COMMENTARY.

This mass is not kept whole, after the manner of other pills, but

divided into particles, of a whole or half scruples weight; which are after formed at pleasure, one while into triangular or multifa∣tious Trochisks; another while into round lumps or Pills: whence some refer them to Pastils, others to Pills. But seeing they should be holden under the tongue, a sphaerical form is most convenient for them, for so they may be abvolved all over, and liquefie in all the parts of the mouth. For which use, other Trochisks may be made, as we have shewed in the twentieth Chapter, first Section and fifth Bo•••• of our Institutions. The manner of their confection is easie. Decorticated Almonds must first be minutely incided with a Knife, then levigated on a Marble: then Amylum and Sugar must be taken: afterwards the succe of Liquorice must be bray'd in a pretty hot metalline morter; then Tragacanthum: let all then be made with the Mucago, into some paste, whereof plain Pills may be made, dryed and kept.

Black Bechical Pills, cure dry coughs, * 1.134 arising from sharp and calid matter, as also asperity, and hoarseness, and hard excretion of the beart, as Mesue shews (cap. de tussil. in sua praxi.)

CHAP. 25. Pil. Bechicaealbae; or, white Bechical Pills.

℞ of the powder of Florentine, Orris, Starch, of each ℥ j. ss. Sugar candy, Pennidees, of each ℥ iiij. white Sugar lb j. and with the Musilidge of Gum Thraganth extracted in Rose water, make a mass, which form into rowles and Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

Seeing the Author of these Pills is uncertain, every one doth at will change their description, by adding or detracting something. ••ut we have exhibited the most usual form whereby Pills that are Bechical, grateful and white may be made: the manner whereof is well known to all.

They are much commended for leniating the asperity of the jaws, * 1.135 outing cough and hoarseness, and moving spittle.

Thus I think I have sufficiently described, not onely all forms of purgative Medicaments, but purgative necessary in a Pharmaco∣poly. It now remains that in the sequent Book I describe Roboratives and Alteratives.

Finis Libri Secundi.

The Apothecaries Shop, OR, ANTIDOTARY. THE THIRD BOOK. Of ROBORATIVE MEDICAMENTS, Distinct in three SECTIONS. The first whereof Treats of more select Cordial Powders.

THE PREFACE.

SCarce any Medicament is of a solitary faculty, but it either purges or roborates, and alters withall; but the denomination is desumed from the prepollent faculty: and that which roborates more, and alters less, is called a Roborative; that which alters more, and roborates less, an Altera∣tive. We shall treat of both, not onely in the same confection, consisting of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 qualities but apart, and in divers Chapters, in this Third Book; be∣cause there is much affinity betwixt these Medicaments, both in qualities, consist••••ce, and manner of preparation. The Roman Philoniom, and the confection of Hyacinth, have the same preparation and consistence, and are both described amongst Roboratives; yet the former is called an Alte∣rative. Now that we may in just order describe all the Roboratives, we shall begin with the most select Cordial Powders; ••••rtly, at they are described by famous Medicks; partly, as established by our invention, and approved by long experience. Of what use aromatical and other Powders are in Medi∣cinal assumptions, applications, or compositions, we have at large shewed, in Chap. 9. Sect. 1. and Book 3. of our Institutions.

CHAP. 1. Diamargaritum frigidum. D. Platearii.

℞ of pellucid Pearls ʒ iij. the four greater cool seeds picked, the seeds of Purslain, and white Poppy, white and yellow Sanders, Lignum Aloes, Ginger, red Roses, the flowers of Water-lillies, Borrage, Myrtle-ber∣ries, of each ʒ j. white and red Coral, of each ʒ ss. make of all these a fine powder, which let be kept in a glass with a narrow orifice.

The COMMENTARY.

Aromatical or Cordial Powders, are either kept alone in a fit ves∣sel well operculated, that their faculties may not expire; or with Honey solved into a liquid Electuary; or with Sugar cocted into a solid Electuary or Tabels. They are kept alone in shops, that a part of them, when use requires, may be dissolved into applicative Medicaments, or mixed with introsumptive ones.

This powder, which is denominated from Pearl, is so variously described, that its Author is not known, but every one changes it variously at will: This though, which we have exhibited out of Platerius, is by most learned Writings attested the most genuine.

And it is called frigid Diamargaritum, to difference it from an∣other, which is hotter, but made of few of none: it is also called the compounded Diamargaritum, in reference to Manus Christi, which consists onely of the Sugar of Roses, and of Pearls. There is yet another compounded one, which admits of many precious Stones, Amber, and Musk; but differing from the Electuary of Gemmes, onely in that it refrigerates more. It is seldom made.

The preparation of Diamargaritum is most in triture, whereof we have largely treated in our Institutions. Pearls are oriental and pellucid, which are proved by their candor, rotundity, smoothness, weight, and magnitude. Those that are ponderous and crass, are called vinous: which because of their rarity and value, seldom in∣grede Medicinal Compositions; they should, like Coral, be ducted, and levigated upon a Purple-stone: The four cold seeds must be minutely incided, and pulverated very small; then the rest, and all confusedly mixed at last.

Diamargaritum is most efficacious to resartiate strength, * 1.136 take away swoundings, to help difficult breathers, to coct the cough, to refresh the tabid, to recreate the languisher, and to recuperate ones former state.

CHAP. 2. Electuarium de Gemmis; or, The Electuary of Gemmes. D.Mes.

℞ of pellucid Pearls ʒ ij. of the fragments of the Saphyr, Hyacinth, Sardis, Granate, Smaragdi, of each ʒ j.ss. of Setwell, and Aarons roots, Citron Pills, Mace, Basil-seeds, of each ʒ ij. red Coral, Amber, the shavings of Ivory, of each ℈ ij. both the Beans, Cloves, Ginger, Long-Pepper, Spikenard, Indian Leaf, Saffron, Cardamomes, of each ʒ j. Troch. Diarrhodon, Aloes wood, of each ʒ v. Cinamon, Galangal, of each ʒ j. ss. the leafs of Gold and Silver, of each ℈ ij. Mosch ʒ ss. make of these a very fine powder.

The COMMENTARY.

This composition is kept either in form of a powder, or of an Ele∣ctuary; and that either soft, consisting of an equal quantity of powders, and of honey of Roses; or solid, consisting of the same, and Sugar of Roses: but it is most commodious, to keep its powder well occluded in fit vessels for future uses.

It takes its name from the Gems or precious stones, of which it is made, with the vulgar, and others rare and unknown cordials, whose faculties cannot be well learned from the Ancients or Neotericks, as appears by the examination we had of Been: in whose stead, we substitute Enula-Campana's roots, both roots being pastinacious, cordial, and hotter then Bugloss or Borrage, which some take for both the Beens: the root also of Tormentil may be substituted in stead of each Been. But I do not fancy their humours, who in composition of this solemn Electuary, usurp those exoticall roots designed by the name of the two Beens; for either Tormentil alone, or Enula alone, or an equal quantity of each, may be much better assumed for both Beens: and if any one would rather have Ange∣lica's root, then that of Enula, he may.

The preparation of this powder, consists in idoneus triture; the Gemmes and Corals must be levigated on a purple stone; the roots, woods, and fruits brayed in a morter, and all at length com∣mixed.

The Electuary of Gems is most efficacious for the cold affections of the brain, heart, ventricle, liver, and uterus, according to Mesue: for it helps the melancholical, sad, solitary, and fearful; it cures the palpitation of the heart, hinders swounding, roborates the languid ventricle, and recreates all the intrails: but Apothecaries seldome make it, because of the rarity and dearness of the simples that in∣grede its composition.

CHAP. 3. Diambra Dom. Mes.

℞ of Cinamon, supposed Wolfs-bane, Cloves, Mace, Nutmegs, Indian leaf, Galangal, of each ʒ iij. Long Pepper, yellow Sanders, Aloes wood, of each ʒ ij. Ginger ʒ j. ss. both the Cardamomes, Spikenard, Amber of each ʒ j. Mosch ʒ ss. make of all these a fine powder, and so kept for use.

The COMMENTARY.

This compound is very aromatical and sweet, both because of the Amber, from which it is denominated, and of the Musk, and other Aromata's that ingrede it. It is kept either in form of a pow∣der, or of a solid Electuary, or of Honey: if it be required of a hard consistence, as that of Tabels, its powder must be received in∣to Sugar of Roses perfectly cocted; if soft, like that of Opiates, its powders must be received into the Julep of Roses, or Alexan∣drian Syrupe.

Its preparation is onely pulveration; which must be effected as we have demonstrated in the 9 and 10 Chap. and 2 Book of our In∣stitutions.

Diambra doth most efficaciously roborate the bowels, * 1.137 especially if their imbecillity be from a cold cause: for by calefaction it refects the spirits, and foments the native heat; it helps the affections of the Uterus, and is very convenient for old men and women.

CHAP. 4. Pilvis Diamoschi.

℞ of Mosch ʒ ss. the bone of the heart of a Hart, pellucid Pearl, sha∣vings of Ivory, white and red Coral, white and yellow Sanders, Aloes wood, Cinamon, Mace, and Cloves, of each ʒ j. Rose-leaves, Water-Lillies, of each ʒ j.ss. Citron-pill, Bugloss-flowers, Spikenard, of each ʒ ss. Camphyr gr. ij. make of these a fine powder according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

Vulgar Pharmacopolitan Dispensatories abound with many cor∣dial, but intensely calefactive Powders, and very few refrigeratives, consisting onely of all kindes of hot Aromata's, promiscuously and confusedly agregated without choyce or care: Of which sort, the two last descriptions (as tradited by the Ancients) were, and many more, which occur in each Antidotary, are: for, Diacyminum, Dia∣nisum, Diazinziber, Diatrium Pipereon, Diamargaritum calidum,

Diamoschum; both sweet and amare, produce all the same effects, having all the same faculties, as compounded all of hot Aromata's. Wherefore I have not onely castigated, but neglected the antique description of Diamoschum, and substituted another, which well refers the reason of its name and composition, conducing to imbe∣cility wrought by a hot cause: for it seemed to me superfluous, to retain the ancient description of Diamoschum, when Diambra, and the Electuary of Gems pollicitate the same effects: Therefore I have exhibited another most fragrant Diamoschum, very efficacious in curing hot distempers, and easily preparable.

Sweet Diamoschum, * 1.138 consisting of many Cordials, exhilarates the noble parts, especially the heart and vital faculties, made lan∣guid or imbecile from any, but mainly a hot cause: It conduces also to many affections of the Uterus.

CHAP. 5. Pulvis Electuarii Triasantali; or, The species for the Electuary of the three Sanders.

℞ of the three Sanders, Rose-leaves, Fleabit-seed, of each ʒ ij. Rhabarb, shavings of Ivory, Juyce of Liquorice, Purslain-seed, of each ʒ j.ss. Starch, Gumme Thraganth, Arabick, the four greater cool seeds, En∣dive seed, of each ʒ j. Camphyr ℈ ss. make of these according to Art a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

Amongst twenty descriptions of this composition, I have not found two alike: for some in stead of Zuccaria, put Hemlock-seed, as Joubertus; others the seeds of Psyllium, as Foefius; others omit both, as Cordus; others will have Sugar-candy; and others Violets, as Euchsius.

There is the same diffidence about Rhabarb, Amylum, and Camphyr; which some reject, others adde. I have with the con∣sent also of learned Authors, described this form, and added Psyl∣lium as very convenient: but I have expunged Amylum as unapt; for its viscidity obstructs: Camphyr I admit, that by its tenuity it may introduce the crasser Medicaments: but I have detracted from its quantity, lest by its graveolence, it should obtund or deleate the suavity of the Aromata's, which are but few.

I also allow of Tragacanthum and Arabick, which should be alit∣tle assated before commixtion, that they may depose their viscidity, and become more convenient for the Authors intention, who, what∣ever he was, aimed this Medicament partly to roborate, and partly to resolve obstructions.

Its preparation is like the former's, depending on due triture.

It mirificously conduces to the freeing the liver from obstructions: * 1.139 it helps such as have the jaundies, or are tabid, or troubled with im∣moderate

heat in their bowels; it allayes also the heat of the ven∣tricle, frees the first region of the body from infarctures, and vindicates the humours from putretude.

CHAP. 6. Aromat. Rosatum; or, an Aromatical composition of Roses. D. Gabriel.

℞ of Rose-leaves ʒ xv. Liquorice ʒ vij. choyce Cinamon ʒ v. Aloes∣wood, * 1.140 yellow Sanders, of each ʒ iij. Gumme Arabick, Thraganth, of each ʒ ij. and ℈ ij. Cloves and Mace, of each ʒ ij. ss. Spikenard ʒ ij. Nutmegs, Cardamomes the greater, Galangal the lesser, of each ʒ j. Amber ℈ ij. Mosch ℈ j. make of these a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue describes many cordial and suaveolent Electuaries, but more especially six, which he calls aromatical; out of which I have se∣lected this one: and he that hath this, may easily be without the rest.

It is called Aromaticum, from the Aromata's whereof it consists, and Rosatum, from its Roses, which are therein prepollent both in quantity and quality: It is cognominated from one Gabriel, it is probable its Author, or Mesue's friend. But however, the descri∣ption is good, and its use salutary.

It is kept in form of a Powder, which is easily made; or of a soft Electuary, which is effected, by admitting it to an equal quan∣tity of the Syrupe of Roses, and of Orange-pill. But it is most usually had in form of a tabellated Electuary, the Powders being cocted in Sugar.

It roborates the brain, heart, ventricle, and the inferiour Belly; * 1.141 dissipating the excrementitious humidity of their parts: it corrects all putretude, excites appetite, helps coction, abates loathsomness and vomiting, and is very good for such as are weak, and newly re∣covered from a disease.

CHAP. 7. Diarrhodon Abbatis. D. N. Salern.

℞ of Rose-leaves, Sugar-candy, of each ʒ iij. white and yellow Sanders, of each ʒ ij.ss. Gumme Thraganth, Arabick, shavings of Ivory, of each ℈ ij. Mace, Lavender, Mastick, Cardamomes, Saffron, Aloes∣wood, Cloves, Gallia Moschata, Cinamon, * 1.142 Rhabarb, Juyce of Liquo∣rice, the seeds of Anise, Fennel, Basil, Berberries, Endive, Purslain, white Poppies, the greater cool seeds, of each ℈ j. the bone in the heart of a Hart, the best Pearl, of each ℈ ss. Mosch gr. iiij. Campyr gr. ij. make of these a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

This solemn composition hath also undergone castigation; for from its first description tradited, Nic. Myrepsus, Nic. Salernitanus hath detracted Coral, Lettice, and Mandrake-seeds: Nic. Praeposi∣tus following the castigation of Salernitanus, neither mentions the Corrector nor the Author. Nic. Myrepsus attributes the invention thereof to one Abbas, a President of a certain Colledge: and seeing no famous Medicament goes through many hands without muta∣tion, no wonder if Abbas his Diarrhodum be not alwayes described alike; in whose composition, Sylvius admits not of Musk, nor Ron∣deletius of Rhabarb, nor I of Asarum, because it is vomitory, and an enemy to the stomack; in whose stead I have substituted Mace. Some admit onely the grains of Berberries-seeds; others, and bet∣ter, the whole seeds: the four frigid seeds being easily corruptible, should not be commixed till the time of use; if it be required in form of a solid Electuary, the powders must be excepted in Sugar of Roses perfectly cocted.

Diarrhodon roborates the Ventricle and Liver, * 1.143 helps coction, ••••∣cites appetite, discusses flatulency, cohibits belching, makes the breath sweet, allayes the heat of the bowels, and emends all vices in the body arising from heat.

CHAP. 8. Pulvi•• latificans; or, A laetificant Powder of an uncer∣tain Author.

℞ of Basil-seed, Saffron, Setwel, yellow Sanders, Cloves, Citron-pill, Ga∣langal, Mace, Nutmegs, Storax, of each ʒ ij.ss. shavings of Ivory, Anise-seed, Dodder of Thyme, Thyme, of each ʒ j. Amber, Mosch, Pearl, the bone in the heart of a Hart, of each ʒ ss. Leafs of Gold and Silver, of each ℈ ss. make of them all a Powder according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

There are two descriptions of this name; one given by Rhasis, which is seldome made; the other by an uncertain Author, which we have transcribed out of Praepositus as better. They erre, that at∣tribute this confection to Galen; for it is not contained in his Works, neither did he know many of its ingredients, as Musk, Camphyr, Amber, and Pearls.

It is alled the laetificant, or Powder of gladness, from its effect; for it laetificates the heart and spirits: we have expunged Balm∣wood out of its confection, being very precious and rare, and in its stead substituted Citrian Santal: Lentisks, and Aloes-wood are also good substitutes for Balm-wood; as also for the Hatts heart-bone,

its Horn: The rest being alwayes in readiness, need no substitutes. The preparation is the same with the precedents.

The laetificant Electuary denotes its eximious faculties by its name; it laetificates the heart, and all the vital parts and faculties, * 1.144 recreates the bowels, absumes excrementitious humours, dissipates flatulency, and roborates the ventricle.

CHAP. 9. Pulvis Dianthos. D.N. Myr.

℞ of the flowers of Rosemary ℥ j. of Rose-leaves, Violets, and Liquo∣rice, of each ʒ vj. Cloves, Lavender, Nutmegs, Galangal, Cinamon, Ginger, Setwel, Mace, Aloes-wood, Cardamomes, Anise-seed, and Dill-seed, of each ℈ iiij. make of these a very fine Powder according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

The description of this Powder is desumed from Nic. Myrepsue, who put many simples in less quantity, besides Rosemary; which Actuarius augmented, adding Worm-seed. It desumes its name from the flowers of Rosemary, which are its Basis, which by a cer∣tain Antonomasia are called Anthos, that is, the flower; whence the Electuary is called Dianthos; whose preparation is without difficul∣ty: Pharmacopolists keep it usually in form of a Powder; and if it be required in form of a soft Electuary, they put the Powders in Honey; if of a solid one, they put them in the Sugar of Roses per∣fectly cocted, and make Pastils thereof.

It is cordial, helping the Epilepsie, and Swoundings; * 1.145 it uni∣versally auxiliates all imbecility of Body, but especially the affe∣ctions of the head.

CHAP. 10. Pulvis Dianisi; or, The compound Powder of Anise-seed.

℞ of the seeds of Anise ʒ x. Liquorice, Mastick, of each ℥ ss. the seeds of Caraway and Fennel, Mace, Galangal, Ginger, Cinamon, of each ʒ ij. ss. the three Peppers, Cassia Lignea, Sermountain-seed, Moun∣tain-Calamint, of each ʒ j. the greater Cardamomes, Cloves, Cubebs, Spikenard, Saffron, of each ℈ ij. and gr. v. Sugar-candy ʒ ij. make of these a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

This Powder is both usual and useful; whose description, as tra∣dited by Mesue, we retain; onely expunging Bartram, and substi∣tuting

Libistica and Sugar-candy, for common Sugar: for Bartram be∣ing hot and sharp, and not aromatical, may well be omitted; and Su∣gar-candy is more idoneous then common Sugar, for the asservation of the Powders. Cubebs are small round fruits, adhering to long pedicles, racemously congested; which some say are Galen's Carpe∣sia, others Dioscorides his wilde Myrtles, and others the grains of a Willow-tree: but they are none of these, and their description differs much from any such.

In Jaoa this fruit is called Cumuc, which the Incolists there so much estimate, that they boyl it before they sell it out, lest it should be sown, and germinate elswhere, as we have shewed, Chap. 14. Sect. 3. Book 4. of our Medicinal Materials.

Dianison cures the cold distemper of the ventricle, * 1.146 caused by crude phlegm or flatulency: it cures diuturnal coughs, proceeding from cold humours, and frees the bowels from obstructions.

CHAP. 11. Diacinnamomum; or, The compound Powder of Cinamon. D.Mes.

℞ of small Cinamon ʒ xv. Cassia-wood, the root of Enula-campane, of each ʒ iiij. Galangal ʒ vij. Cloves, Long-pepper, both the Carda∣momes, Ginger, Mace, Nutmegs, Aloes-wood, of each ʒ iij. Saffron ʒ j. Sugar ʒ v. Mosch ℈ ij. make of these a Powder according to Art.

The COMMENTARY.

Of the Aromata's which this Powder admits, Cinamon is most prepollent: which is of two sorts; the one more tenuious and fra∣grant, which the Arabians call Darcheni; the other more crass, and less odorate, which we call vulgar or ligneous Cinamon. We have depinged both their Histories, in Chap. 9. Sect. 3. and Book 1. of our Medicinal Matter. The Neotericks, for more suavities sake, pre∣pare Diacinnamomum with Musk. Its preparation is no more but pulveration, and the confused union of the Powders.

Diacinnamomum consisting wholly of hot and aromatical in∣gredients, * 1.147 doth miraculously resartiate strength, exhilarate the spi∣rits, and cure all affections proceeding from cold causes.

CHAP. 12. Lithontripticon; or, A Powder to break the Stone.

℞ of the blood of a Buck-goat prepared ℥ j. the blood of a Hare burnt ℥ ss. the roots of Sea-holly, Sowbread, Madder, Cyprus, Orris the Flo∣rentine, the seeds of Gromwel and Saxafrage, Winter-cherries, of each ʒ ij. Lapis Spongiae, Egge-shells burnt, the inward tunicle of the ventricle of a Hen, Juniper-berries, Cardamomes, Cinamon, Mace,

of each ʒ j.ss. the seeds of Smallage, Petroseline, Bishopweed, Aspa∣ragrass, Caraway, Carret, Hartwort, Coriander, Citron, Mallows, Melon, Pepon, and Pimpinel, of each ʒ j. the Gumme of the Cherry∣tree ʒ ij. let them be all beaten, and made into a fine Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

We have rejected the old description of this Powder, which vul∣gar Apothecaries call Lithontribon, because it receives many astri∣ctives, and some things that hinder its efficacy in breaking the stone, and extracting the sand of the Reins; and others that are too rare and precious, or can never be had sincere: in whose stead we give another Lithontripticon, most aptly composed, to break the stone, expel sand, and cure other affections of the Reins and Bladder.

But before Goats-blood ingrede its composition, it should be thus prepared: First, a Goat of four years old, or thereabouts, should be selected and jugulated; the blood which comes out in the middle, must be put in an earthen pot, for that which flows out first is too tenuious, the last too crass; then the pot must be covered with a rare linen cloth, and exposed to the Sun, that the blood may coagulate; the watry must be rejected, and the more crass concreted blood dry∣ed, brayed, and kept in a glass vessel: they are too superstitious, who will not kill the Goat, till the Sun be entring into Cancer, and he have been nourished a long time with Saxifrage, Pimpinella, Smallage, and the like; nor collect any, save the arterial blood: for though this preparation be not useless, yet it is not necessary; nay, there can scarce be such plenty of those plants they require got, as will nourish a Goat a long time: and besides, his blood, whose pabulum is not changed, is as efficacious for breaking the stone.

The Hares-blood newly extracted, must be so assated, that it turn not to ashes, but may be pulverated. There is nothing besides in this preparation, either difficult or operous.

This Powder taken in a little white-wine, * 1.148 or water of Pellitory of the wall, or such convenient liquor, will expel stones and sand from the Reins, Bladder, and Ureters, and potently move Urine.

CHAP. 13. Pulvis Diacalaminthes; or, The compound Powder of Mint. D. N. Myr.

℞ Mountain-Calamint, Peny-royal, black Pepper, the seeds of Massilian * 1.149 Hartwort, and Parsley, of each ʒ iij. and ʒ ij. the seeds of Ser∣mountain, * 1.150 Bishopweed, Dill, tops of Thyme, Cinamon, Ginger, of each ℈ ij. Smallage-seed ℈ j. make of these a fine Powder, and keep it in a glass with a narrow orifice.

The COMMENTARY.

There are various descriptions given of this Powder; but all practical Medicks take and approve of this of Myrepsus as best. Ga∣len exhibits the like; but he makes it too hot and sharp, by too much Ginger and Pepper: we have put Dill for Anise; yet with this re∣serve, That any one may without difference or damage to the com∣pound, substitute which he pleases. This is prepared as the prece∣dents.

Diacalamin the extenuates crass and viscid humours, * 1.151 discusses fla∣tulency, moves urine and fluors, cures the cough from cold humours, helps the distribution of the aliment to the Liver, roborates the ven∣tricle, augments appetite: it may be given in form of a soft Electu∣ary, if it be mixed with Honey; a solid one, if with Sugar.

CHAP. 14. Pulvis contra Pestem, seu Bezoardicus; or, A Powder against the Plague, or Bezoar-Powder.

℞ of the roots of Tormentil, Angelico, Enula-campane, Gentian, Pyony, Aloes-wood, yellow Sanders, Harts-horn, Ivory, the bone in the heart of a Hart, Juniper-berries, Cardamomes, the seeds of Sorrel and Car∣duus, Cloves, Mace, Cinamon, of each ʒ j.ss. the rinds of Citron and Orange, Diptamus, Scordeum, Squinant, the aromatick Reed, Rose∣leaves, Saffron, of each ʒ j. Bole-armeniack washed in Rose-water, and Lemnian-Earth, of each ʒ ij. Camphyr gr. viij. Amber-grise, Leaf-gold, of each ℈ j. make of these a very fine and small Powder, and repose it in a glass; which sign, Pulvis Bezoardicus.

The COMMENTARY.

Medicaments which oppugn the Plague, expugn Poysons, evert their harm, and defend life, are by the Greeks called Antidota, by the Arabians Bezaardica; of which sort there are some simples, as the Bezar-stone, Zerumbet, and Precious-stones; some compounds, as Cordials, and Theriacals, which consist of many things that ro∣borate the heart, spirits, and vital parts, extinguishing poysons and venenate qualities: therefore they are said to be in a mean, partici∣pating both of our nature and poysonous qualities; as Mithridate, whose frequent use is not safe, where there is no suspicion of a vene∣nate quality; for if it finde no object on which it may act, it leaves the vestigia of its inimick quality impressed on the parts, accending the humours, and preying upon the native calour.

But such compound Medicaments as consist onely of cordial and roborative ingredients, and by some special faculty oppugning poy∣son, are at all seasons convenient for all temperatures and diseases;

as this Powder we have described, whose faculties are eximious in expugning malign affections, and defending the noble parts.

And it is given in water, or some cordial decoction, or idoneous conserve; or else it is excepted in the Syrupe of Kermes, or Lem∣mons, or concinnated into the form of an Opiate: it may also with Honey despumed in some cordial water, be coagmentated into the form of a liquid Electuary, and kept in shops like other confections. Its faculties will be more eximious, if Precious-stones, Unicorns∣horn, and Bezar-stone, be added to it. The Powder is easie to be made, and the ingredients may be had.

It is miraculously efficacious in expugning venenate, contagious, * 1.152 and pestilent diseases, and in recreating and defending the prin∣cipal parts.

CHAP. 15. Pulvis Antilyssos, seu contra Rabiem; or, A Powder against the biting of a mad Dog. D. J. Pal.

℞ of the leaves of Rue, Vervine, Sage, Plantain, Polypody, common Wormwood, Mint, Mugwort, Balm, Betony, S. Johns-wort, the lesser Centaury, of each m.j. let them be dryed, and at last reducated into a fine Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

This alexiterial Powder I desumed from the famous Jul. Palma∣rius, who wrote seven Books of contagious Diseases: the eximious faculties, and admirable effects of this Medicament, not onely he, but Dominus de Pyrou, hath frequently and successfully experienced upon many; from whom he confesses he had its first description: for as many as were bitten with mad Dogs, and used this, were pre∣sently freed from imminent and incipient Hydrophoby, if no part of the head above the teeth, or cold member, were abluted; for then there were small hopes of remedy.

We call this Powder ANtilyssum, because in arceating madness, it is inferiour to none: it cures wounds inflicted by mad Dogs, and impedes that terrible symptome, whereby those wretches are fear∣ful of water.

The preparation of this famous Antidote is easie; wherein these three things are chiefly observable: First, that the Simples be then collected, when they are most vertuous, to wit, in the begin∣ning or end of the Spring; That they be not dryed either by the scorching Sun, or in a moist place; That when they are dry, they be kept, with this reserve, that they be renovated annually.

There is no need, that any great quantity of this eximious Pow∣der be kept in Pharmacopolies: for it is enough, if half a pound thereof be reconded in a fit vessel for present use: But its materials

or simples should be kept in abundance, artificially dryed, inclosed in chartaceous bags, and securely reposed, that Flyes may not con∣sparcate them, nor Mice erode them; and when exigence calls for them, an equal weight of each should be pulverated, and a whole or half dragm thereof given in the morning before meat, in a spoon, with twice as much Sugar; or else in pottage, or other con∣venient liquor, as Wine, Sider; or else in Honey, like an Opiate.

And although one or two dragms be a dosis sufficient for a very robust man; yet three or four may sometimes be exhibited, by such especially, who have been bitten long before, or are already begun to fear water.

This Powder is indeed very eximious; but it would be more ef∣ficacious, if the Powder of Pimpinel and burnt River-Crabfishes were mixed with it: Its name Alyssum shews, that it is justly pre∣ferred before all other of that sort; for Galen and Dioscorides call it so, because it cures madness, and extinguishes its poyson.

But this plant is rare, and known onely to few: it is in aspect like Horehound, but each genicle emits onely two crisped, hoary, and almost inodorate leaves; spinous cups do verticularly circum∣vest its Caulicles: I have often seen it in the Colledge-Garden in Paris.

There is another kinde in Germany, called Echioides, like Tizil in form; but it is inferiour to that of Galens: yet he that wants the one, may substitute the other.

CHAP. 16. Crocus Martis; or, Mars his Saffron.

THis Medicament is so denominated, partly from its matter, as it is the filings of Steel, or Iron, dedicated to Mars; and partly from its colour, which resembles Saffron: Its preparation is multifarious; for every one prepares it after his own Model, in which every one dissents from another: whence some have neglect∣ed, or disapproved of its preparation, as useless; and Rivierius ex∣hibits the bare limature of Iron, for true Saffron of Mars, without ustion or ablution; professing it to be safer, and more efficacious in curing the foetid colours of Virgins: but he that will follow the method of so rash a Periclitator, shall be more formidable then the very diseases.

I finde two preparations of this Saffron, more usual then the rest: the first is vulgar, and well known to Pharmacopolists, who burn the filings of Steel twice, or more, in a crucible, and wash it as oft, partly in Vinegar, partly in Rose-water, or other fit liquor; then dry it, and make a subruse ponderous Powder, which they call pre∣pared Steel.

The second is used by the Chymists, who make this ponderous Powder volarile; whose preparation they thus effect: sometimes

they assume the limature of Steel, sometimes of Iron, or of both, for the qualities are similar; they burn it a day or two in their fire, then they inject it into water, and assume and keep what swims above; and, abjecting the water, take what is in the bottom, and inject it again into the reverberatory fire, where they burn it as be∣fore, and again dimit it into water: what swims above, they again take and keep; what sinks to the bottom, they again burn, till it subside not, but remain upon the superficies of the water; which they collect, dry, and keep for special Chymical Martical Saffron.

Some make it thus: They put the limature of Iron on a dish in a very hot fire, and permit it to be red hot: when it is cold, they bray it laboriously in an Iron-Morter; then wash it, that the more sub∣lime part may be separated with the water: the crasser is again burned, and brayed as before; which they iterate seven or more times, till all the limature become croceous.

Some wash the limature of Iron in Brine, before they calcinate it; and afterwards in Vinegar: some macerate it in Urine, others put Salt to it, and others Tartar: some burn it with Sulphur, others turn it into Rubigo: but as these preparations are too curious, so are they needless; and it is better to hold to one good way, then hover doubtful amongst so many.

But the dust of Iron must be filed very small for this purpose, that it may be better calcinated by the fire; then it must be brayed, afterwards demerged, and much agitated in water, and the super∣natant part collected, dryed with moderate heat, and kept without further calcination: the crasser part must be again immitted into the fire, till the whole become volatile, and then it is true Martial Saffron.

Alchymists make it also of other Metals; for they have Saffron of Tinne, Saffron of Venus: but by how much they seem more perite Artificers, by so much they are more imperite Medicks.

They say, that Mars his Saffron roborates the liver and spleen, * 1.153 takes away the obstructions of the bowels, and therefore cures the foetid colour of Virgins.

Of this and other Cordial Powders, prudent Medicks make a Confection in form of a soft Electuary or Tabels, called Diastomoma, most efficacious in removing obstructions, wherewith they mix the Powder of Worms: But I had rather make it thus:

℞ of Steel well prepared ʒ ij. Cinamon ʒ ss. the species for the Electua∣ry of the three Sanders, and de Gemmis, of each ℈ j. the Powder of Dictamus ℈ ss. with Sugar dissolved in Balm-water ℥ iiij. of which make Tablets of ʒ iij. weight, or ℥ ss. one whereof take in the morn∣ing fasting. They used to put more Sugar to Cordial Tabels, but then they are less efficacious.

THE SECOND PART. Of Powders necessary to be had in Shops.

IN the former part of this Section, we have tradited onely most select Cor∣dial Powders; omitting onely such, whose qualities were affine and si∣milar, whose descriptions were ungrounded, and use disapproved. Now in this second part we shall treat of such, as, being more frigid and sweeter, are not as the former, Aromatical, but Bechical and Thoracical; for they are convenient for the Cough of the Lungs, and all Thoracical affections.

CHAP. 17. Pulvis Diaireos simplex.

℞ of Florentine Orris ℥ ss. Sugar-candy, Pul. Diatrag. frigid. of each ʒ ij. make of them all a Powder to be kept for use.

The COMMENTARY.

The Author of this Powder is most uncertain, but its use most frequent: it should be conveniently excepted in Sugar, duly cocted in the white of an Egge, clarified with Coltsfoot-water, and con∣cinnated into Tabels or Lozenges: Each ounce of Powder must have a pound of Sugar; yea, they sometimes put two ounces of Sugar to one dragm of Powder: and the Electuary thus made, is more grateful, but less efficacious; as on the contrary, when each dragm of Powder receives an ounce of Sugar.

The manner of its preparation is so easie, that it needs no fur∣ther description.

It stayes the distillation of the Jaws, * 1.154 attenuates, cocts, and ex∣pectorates crass humours.

There is another composition of Diaireos, denoted by Solomons name; which being harder to make, more insuave, and no whit more efficacious, is seldome made.

CHAP. 18. Pulvis Diatragacanthi frigidi; or, The Powder of cold Diatragacanthum. D. Myrep.

℞ of Penidees ℥ iij. Gum Thraganth ℥ j. Gum Arabick ʒ x. Starch ℥ ss. the seeds of white Poppy ʒ iij. of the four greater cool seeds, Liquo∣rice, of each ʒ ij. Camphyr ℈ ss. make of these a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

This Powder hath its name and basis from Tragacanthum, which in its composition is most prepollent. It receives many Bechical, viscid, refrigerative, and lenitive simples, whereunto Myrepsus its Author addes Nettle-seed, as very accommodate for the attenuation and expurgation of crass humours: which, because it makes the compound both in colour and sapour ingrateful, is by Neotericks omitted, others supplying its faculty better.

It is kept either in form of a Powder, as the rest; or of a tabu∣lated Electuary; each ounce of Powder admitting of a pound of Sugar.

It helps all hot affections of the lungs and breast, * 1.155 conduces much to such as are macilent or consumed; it cures the Pleurisie, asperity of the tongue and jaws, and cocts and expectorates spittle.

CHAP. 19. Pulvis Diapendit sine speciebus; or, The Powder of Penidees without species. D.N. Myreps.

℞ of Penidees ℥ ij. Pine-nuts, sweet Almonds decorticated, white Poppy-seed, of each ʒ iij. the Juyce of Liquorice, Gum Thraganth, Arabick, the four greater cool seeds, Starch, of each ʒ j. ss. Camphyr gr. viij. make of them all a Powder.

The COMMENTARY.

Diapenidion is made either without species, as in this form, or with them: when Cinamon, Cloves, and Ginger, are added there∣to, as Myrepsus its Author describes it, and the said species, Al∣monds, Poppy-seed, and Liquorice-juyce are put in equal weight.

It is kept either in form of a Powder, or of a solid Electuary; which, by the Authors advice, may be thus made: Three ounces of Violers must be macerated and cocted in a pound of water, till the water be of a violaceous colour; one pound of Sugar must be coct∣ed in the colature, to the consistence of a solid Electuary; where∣with, whilst hot, the Penidees, and other levigated simples, must be

so mixed and subacted, that the mass may acquire a solid form, whereof tabels or Rhombodies may be concinnated and reposed for use. All with one consent confect Penidees thus, but few agree in the proportion of the simples; for each one changes their weight: this we have delivered is the most usual form.

This Powder conduces very much to those that are infested with a cough, * 1.156 pleurisie, difficulty of breathing, asperity of jaws, hoarse∣ness, and many vices of the lungs. If it be made with the species, besides the enumerated effects, it also incides, attenuates, and cocts viscid, crass, and cold humours, preparing them for expectoration.

CHAP. 20. Confectio de Rebecha.

℞ of the Powder of Diaireos, cold Diatraganth. of each ʒ ij. Powder of Liquorice ℥ ss. Sugar-candy ʒ iij. and with Gum Thraganth dissolved in Rose-water make a Paste, of which Rolls.

The COMMENTARY.

Though this confection be of an unknown Author, yet it is most usual, grateful for sapour, and commendable for effects. The Pow∣ders whereof it consists, are indeed kept severally, till they be mixed with Tragacanthum, solved in Rose-water, or other convenient li∣quor; or else coacted with Sugar, cocted in some idoneous humour into a mass, whereof Pastills or Bacills may be formed. We anu∣merate it amongst Bechical Powders, because it is of the same use and consistence. Some think this consection is called Rebecha, from Bechia, for it is Bechical, some ignorant fellow reading Rebechi, for ℞ Bechi, in some ancient Medicks receipt, gave the name to this Confection, which is now called Rebecha.

It cures such as cough, * 1.157 breathe difficultly, spit corrupt blood, are infested with the Peurisie, asperity of the tongue and jaws, and hoarseness.

CHAP. 21. Of Penidees.

PEnidees are much commended amongst bechical and arteriacal Medicaments, which consist but of a few ingredients; for they are made of Sugar and Barley-water, mixed in such proportion, and so cocted, that a mass expurges thence, of such solidity, that it is tractable, not adhering to ones fingers, but easily ducible into long or short, crass or small threads: which, that it may be duly effected, the mass, while hot, is adduced, reduced, and drawn upon a ferreous hook affixed to the Beam, till it be dealbated, and

severall figures made out of those threads.

Bulcasis, the Author of this Compound, made it of pure water, Sugar, and Honey, mixed with as much Oyl of bitter Almonds: But now we take Barley-water, omit Honey, and onely anoint the hands of the subacter, and the Marble on which it is projected, with Oyl.

The shop-men call this Medicament Alphenicum, from the white∣ness it contracts by subaction and duction.

It cures the cough, hoarseness, and asperity of the artery; moves, * 1.158 cocts, and excludes spittle, and helps all affections of the Lungs and Breast.

SECT. II. Of liquid Antidotes.

THere are of the Powders described, and other Cordial and Alexiterial ones, diluted in some idoneous liquor, certain soft confections made, which we sometimes call Liquid Antidotes, sometimes Opiates, and some∣times Cordial Confections. Now some of them are onely Cordial, recreating the spirits and vital parts; others Alliotical and Hypnotical, altering and conciliating sleep; and others Theriacal, working the same effects, and withall oppugning and expugning poyson, if they meet with any. We will be∣gin with the true Cordials.

CHAP. I. Confectio Alkermes; or, The Confection of Alkermes. D.M.

℞ of the Juyce of fragrant Apples, of the best Damask Rosewater, of each lb j.ss. infuse in them for the space of a whole day, the husks or Cods of * 1.159 Silk-worms lb j. make a strong expression; to which adde the best Juyce of Kermes-berries lb j. Sugar lb ij. boyl them till they come almost to the body or consistence of Honey; to which, whilst hot, adde * 1.160 crude Amber small cut ʒ ij. and when 'tis dissolved, cast in these Powders, of Cinamon, Aloes-wood, of each ʒ vj. the Azure∣stone burnt and washed, Pearl, of each ʒ ij. Leaf Gold ʒ j. Mosch ℈ j. make thereof a foft Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

The greater part of Pharmacopolists infuse silk dyed in the succe of tinctured grains, or Kermes newly tincted in Rose-water: But Joubertus, to whom I assent, would rather infuse crude silk in the said liquor, and then adde the succe of Kermes to the expression; for so

there is less loss; and the vertue of the silk, if it have any, may be easily elicited before tincture, by infusion: And though its first Au∣thor Mesue instituted it otherwise, yet it is no piacle to discede ei∣ther from him, or any other Author, if the thing may be made either better, or more useful thereby. I rather assent therefore to such as infuse crude silk in Rose-water, and succe of Apples, and afterwards adde Kermes to the expression.

It is prudently provided in the Roman Antidotary, that onely four ounces of silk be macerated, seeing it may not be totally omit∣ted with loss to the Medicament: for, as I would not be refractory, so would not I be too credulous, nor suffer every thing that is spoken or written, too precipitantly to inhere in my minde. And that I may speak freely, Sericum being the excrement of a certain sordid Insect, I can scarce perswade my self, that it is indued with so great vertue as the Ancients put upon it. I know indeed that Clay is not destitute of faculties, and that the qualities of Animals Hair, Cleys, and very dung, are not contemptible; but, if not cordial, yet effica∣cious, by their sharp and troublesome quality. But more of silk in its proper place. I now return to our confection, wherein the Azure∣stone is put; yet not so prepared, as in the confection of those Pills, which are denominated from it: for therein it is exhibited crude, that its purgative faculty may remain intire; but here burnt, that it may perish; in both pulverated, and frequently washed, that it may depose its vomitory, and keep its cordial and roborative fa∣culty.

It must be burned in a crucible or small earthen pot, then brayed, and often washed, first in common water, then in cordial, as Rose∣water, or such convenient liquor, and dryed, till the water after lo∣tion remain limpid.

This is a precious, but not so operous a compound, as the Augu∣stane Dispensatory portends: it is prepared as other Confections. The sole dissent about its composition, is in the tincture of the silk, and the weight of Musk, which some augment, others minuate: if Aloes-wood cannot be had, Citrian Santals may be substituted.

It is very efficacious for many things; * 1.161 for it cures the palpita∣tion of the heart, swoundings, doting, and sadness without a ma∣nifest cause; and much helps such as are languid, wearied with long sickness, and newly recovered.

CHAP. 2. Confectio de Hyacintho; or, The confection of Hyacinth.

℞ of Hyacinths, red Coral, Lemnian-Earth, Bole-Armeniack, of each ℥ ss. Kermes-berries, Tormentil-root, Dittany, Citron-seed, Saffron, Myrrhe, red Roses, all the sorts of Sanders, the bone in the heart of a Hart, Harts-bone burnt, shavings of Ivory, the seeds of Sorrel and Purslain, of each ʒ j. Saphyr, Smaragd, Topaz, Pearl, crude Silk,

filings of Gold and Silver, of each ℈ ij. Camphyr. Mosch, Amber∣grise, of each gr. v. with Syrupe of Lemmons make it up into a Con∣fection.

The COMMENTARY.

Neotericks invented this Confection, which the Mompelian Me∣dicks, who were first seen to usurp it, had in much use. It agrees onely nominally with that in the first Section of the greater Lumi∣nary, which is denominated of Hyacinth, under the authority of its Inventor Galen. But whoever was the Author of this, he hath se∣lected the best Medicaments, congested them in the best Method and Order; and therefore I judge nothing changeable herein, unless it be Ivory, which I think were better crude then burnt; and Silk, which I would willingly detract, or tinct it in Kermes before com∣position.

Some require a greater weight of simples, who may by my per∣mission either augment or lessen the quantity, if they detract not from the vertue and efficacy of the mixture; for a little change is none.

It much helps the heart and noble parts in their affections; * 1.162 it cures the Syncope, exhilarates the heart, emends palpitation, dulco∣rates the breath, takes away melancholy, and her sister sadness, without a manifest cause: it cures venenate and contagious dis∣eases, and produces the same effects with the confection of Scarlet grains.

CHAP. 3. Rosata novella; or, A new invented Opiate of Roses. D. N. Myrep.

℞ of Rose-leaves, Sugar, Liquorice, of each ʒ ix. Cinamon ʒ ij. Cloves, Spikenard, Ginger, Galangal, Nutmegs, Setwel, Storax, Car∣damomes, Smallage-seed, of each ℈ ij. make of all these a Powder, adding thereunto despumed Honey, as much as will suffice to make it an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

This confection admits of Roses for its Basis and Nomenclature, and of many Aromata's, both to attenuate and concoct crass and frigid humours, and to recreate the spirits, and roborate the native heat; and of some Bechical ingredients also, to move and promote spittle. It is sometimes kept in form of a Powder, but more fre∣quently of a soft Electuary, or Opiate. We have omitted some scruples and grains, added, its probable, upon small grounds, to the greater weights; which he that will, may super-adde: for

the detriment will be none, and the utility as much.

It roborates the imbecile ventricle, * 1.163 takes away loathsomness, discusses flatulency, excites appetite, helps concoction, incides viscid humours, cures cholical dolours, stayes vomiting, and helps the im∣becility of the heart and stomack, (Myrep. cap. 2 14. Sect. 1.)

CHAP. 4. Confectio de Baccis Lauri; or, The confection of Bay-berries.

℞ of dryed Rue ʒ x. Sagapenum ʒ iiij. Opoponax ʒ iij. Bay-berries, the seeds of Bishopweed, Cucumer, Lovage, Roman Gith, Carret, Caraway, Long-Pepper, black Pepper, true Acorus, bitter Almonds, Origanum, Horsemint, Castoreum, of each ʒ ij. Honey despumed, as much as will suffice to make it up into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

In this confection, Bay-berries, (which give the name) the leaves of Rue, Origanum, and wilde Mint, make up a Basis: it admits of many hot and inciding seeds, to attenuate viscid humours, califie frigid humours, and dissipate flatulency; of Gummes, to deterge and discuss; and of Honey, to receive and conserve the Powders, and to make the compound more efficacious and pleasant.

The Gummes being few, and prescribed in small quantity, need not be solved in any liquor, but minutely incided, and pulverated with the rest; then all received together in despumed Honey, whilst yet hot, and coacted into the form of an Opiate.

It cures the cholical dolour arising from crude humours and fla∣tulency, * 1.164 the tympany, turbulency in the guts, belching; and helps cold natures.

CHAP. 5. Antidotus Diasatyri••on; or, An Antidote exciting Venery.

℞ of Satyrion roots fresh and succulent ℥ ij. the roots of Garden-Carret, and Sea-holly, Indian Nuts, of each ℥ j. Pine-kernels, Pista∣ches, of each ℥ j. ss. Cloves, Ginger, Anise-seed, Rocket-seed, Birds-tongue, commonly called Ashton-keyes, of each ʒ v. the loyns of Scinci, the seed of Bulbus, or Nettle, of each ʒ ij. ss. Mosch gr. vij. Honey despumed in the decoction of the aforesaid roots lb iij. make it into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

There are many descriptions hereof, of which this is the best, most usual, and useful; but there being many kindes of Satyrion,

that which hath but one testicle must be selected, and that in the be∣ginning of the Spring, when it is most succulent.

Some rather take Parsnips-root, then that of Eryngium; but I much matter not which, for their faculties are affine: and I do not so much esteem them, as labouring Rusticks, who almost daily feed upon them both, and yet are no more salacious then before. Rocket indeed I value more, for that will excite the most slow to Venery; though Land-Crocodiles or Scinci do most potently excite thereto, the flesh of whose Loyns I prefer before their Tayl. There is some dubitation about Onyon-seed: seeing no Medick hath explicitely determined, of what sort, among so many varieties of Onyons, the seed must be; therefore I substitute Nettle-seed, which is most con∣gruent to that purpose, in its stead.

And it is thus made: First the roots must be boyled in sufficient water, till they be tabid; then they must be baked, and transmitted through a hair-sieve; then mixed with despumed and cocted Ho∣ney, and then again fervefied on a slow fire, till the aqueous hu∣midity be absumed; afterwards the Pine-kernels and Pistack-nuts must be taken, and minutely cut, and then levigated like the rest; the Musk must be brayed apart, and last of all confusedly mixed with the Cinamon. The old description hath an equal weight of Pi∣stack-nuts and Satyrion; whereas the Pistack being insuave, and more unapt for the end, should be taken in much less quantity.

Diasatyrion augments the seed, stimulates venery, * 1.165 erects the Yard, excites the languid and drowsie to venery, roborates the im∣becility of the reins and bladder, and augments strength.

CHAP. 6. Antidotus Analeptica D.F. or, The roborative Antidote of D. Fern.

℞ of Rose-leaves, Liquorice, of each ʒ ij. gr. v. Gumme Arabick, Thra∣ganth, of each ʒ ij. and ℈ ij. white and red Sanders, of each ℈ iiij. Juyce of Liquorice, Starch, the seeds of white Poppy, Purslain, Let∣tice, and Endive, of ʒ iij. the four greater cool seeds, the seeds of Quinces, Mallows, Cotton, Violets, Pistaches, Pine-kernels, sweet Almonds, Pulp of Sebestens, Storax, Cloves, Cinamon, shavings of Ivory, of each ʒ ij. Saffron gr. v. Penidees ℥ ss. when they are all beaten, take the treble quantity of syrupe of Violets, to make it into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

This Analeptical Antidote or restaurative Electuary, as Praeposi∣tus calls it, is much celebrated by Fernelius; in whose description he found nothing to be changed, but onely the order of the simples, and the grains of Berberries; in whose stead he reposed Pistacks:

Buche omitted Storax, which is most commendable and useful in this confection, whose manner of preparation is so easie, as that it needs not any more declaration.

It restores lost strength, * 1.166 hinders swoundings and syncope, resar∣ciates the habit of the body, extenuated by long fluxes, or other im∣moderate vacuations. It helps and benefits the macilent and consu∣med, by humectating, nourishing, and roborating them.

CHAP. 7. Antidotum Asyncritum; or, The incomparable Antidote of Actuar.

℞ Myrrhe ʒ ij. and ℈ ij. Opium ʒ vj. black Pepper, the seeds of Smal∣lage, Parsley, and Mustard, of each ℥ ss. Squinant ʒ ss. Amomus, the best Storax, of each ʒ ij. * 1.167 Hedychroi Magnatis ʒ j. and ℈ ij. Cassia-Lignea, white Pepper, the seed of Hartwort, of each ʒ j. and ℈ j. Honey despumed, as much as will suffice.

The COMMENTARY.

Actuarius calls this the Asyncrital, that is, the incomparable An∣tidote, because it hath no equal in excellency. Now that it may be made to the Authors minde, the Opium must be macerated in sweet Sape, till it be of the consistence of Honey: the Storax must be di∣duced in honey, wherewith some dry Powders may be commixed. We have upon good grounds, and much consent, substituted vulgar ligneous Cassia, or Cane, in stead of the Author's Aegyptian Cassia; and not Cassia Fistula, or the purgative Cane, which Actuarius all along calls Black Cassia, which is no convenient ingredient in an Antidote.

This Antidote cures old head-aches, * 1.168 mitigates vertiginous and comitial affections, takes away too much vigilancy, and restrains fury and frenzy: it indulges the dolours of the eyes by defluxion, helps the tooth-ach, difficulty of breathing, old coughs, the inflam∣mation of the sides, both dry and humid: it exhausts all the hu∣midity from off the lungs, condenses thin spittle, and makes it more fit for excretion.

It is of present help for the stomack, astringing its humid laxity; it takes away loathsomness and sighing, hinders vomitings, and so stayes the meat newly ingested, solves all inflations of the stomack and belly into ructures, cures the Jaundies, conduces to melancholy, abrogating its sad symptomes, removes the gravity of the spleen, restores colour to the face, dispels obstructions, moves urine, detur∣bates sand, cures the calamities of the Uterus, and cholical dolours, and many other affections, if what Actuarius hath published of this Opiate be true.

CHAP. 8. Philonium magnum seu Romanum; or, The great or Roman Philonium.

℞ of white Pepper, Cassia Lignea, Cinamon, of each ʒ ij. Saffron, Eu∣phorbium, Pellitory, of each ℥ ss. Setwel, Spikenard, of each ℈ ij. Henbane-seed ℥ ss. Opium ʒ ij. ss. Castoreum, Myrrhe, of each ʒ j. ss. the seeds of Smallage, Fennel, Carret, Parsley, of each ʒ j. Honey despumed, as much as will suffice to make it into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

No Medicament is so doubtful and various, as Philonius the Phi∣losopher's Antidote; to which it happens, as it doth to wine which is poured out of one vessel into another, which cannot be without loss: for as many as have written of Pharmacy, have retained its name, but nothing more. Galen alone approves of it; but withall he saith, he subscribes many under it more famous and better. My∣repsus gave four Antidotes of that name; one whereof admits of Opium; one dimits it: the other are scarce like these, and very in∣congruent to the true Philonium. Praepositus detracted a few things from the former description, and added many more: some have added Castorium, others Poppy-seed: We approve of Praepositus his description, in stead of Costum, substituting Castorium, the true castigator of Opium. We have otherwise disposed the order of the Simples, and lessened the quantity of Pepper, Euphorbium, and Bartram; for so we have made it more secure, without fear of inflammation: For we have seen some complaining of great ardour in the bottom of the belly, and the straight intestine, by the inje∣ction of a Glyster, wherein half a dragm of Philonium had been dissolved; which is no wonder, seeing it consists of seventeen Sim∣ples, all hot, besides Opium, which some say is hot also, and Hen∣bane: yea, it can scarce be swallowed, but it offends the jaws with its ardour and acrimony. But as it is by us emended, it may be safely assumed at the mouth, without any offence to the ventricle, gale or jaws. It is called Roman Philonium, because it was much used at Rome.

It is prescribed to the Pleurisie and Cholick; whence some call it the Cholical Antidote; and to all internal dolours. * 1.169 It conci∣liates sleep, stayes blood issuing from the internals, takes away loathsomness, allayes the dolours of the belly, spleen, liver and reins, arising from a cold distemper, flatulency, or crude humours, and stayes sighing.

It must be assumed at the mouth onely in small quantity, as the bigness of a Pease, or little more, according to the age and strength of the assument; and it must be variously dissolved, for various pur∣poses;

sometimes in the decoctions of Plants; sometimes in wine: Actuarius gave it to the sick in the stomack, in the succe of the sprigs of Cistus, and a little wine.

But it is most frequently injected into the belly by the fundament in a decoction of Glysters; which are prescribed for the cure of the most grievous cholical dolours: whereunto, this much conduces.

CHAP. 9. Opiata Solomonis; or, Solomon's Opiate. D. Joubert.

℞ Citron-pill condited lb ss. conserve of old Roses, and Sorrel, of each ℥ j. ss. conserve of Enula-campane, and Bugloss, Mithridate, of each ʒ vj. conserve of Rosemary-flowers ℥ ss. Wormseed, Citron-seed, of each ʒ iij. Cinamon ʒ ij. Cloves ʒ j. the root of white Dittany, Carduus Benedictus, dryed Citron-pill, of each ʒ ij. gr. v. Aloes-wood ʒ j. Car∣damomes, Mace, of each ℈ ij. and gr. xv. Gentian-roots ʒ ss. the bone in the heart of a Hart ℈ j. Juniper-berries infused a whole night in Vinegar of Squills n.xxv. Sugar lb ss. Syrupe of Citrons, as much as will suffice to make it into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

Joubertus describes this Opiate from one Solomon, a man of no note in Medicine, and commends it for many uses. He saith its Author was 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or uncertain, he onely receiving it at the hands of women, no little depraved; as it happens to such things as are committed to writing, and not to print: Therefore I should rather call Joubertus its castigator, the Author of it, then these wo∣men, or one Solomon, of whom I have not otherwise heard. But if any one will, for more ostentation, or Encomium to the Opiate, design it by the name of that great King, who ruled Gods people, I shall suffragate with him, seeing many fictitious names are with∣out any better grounds imposed upon other Medicaments. It is ea∣sie to make: for want of Aloes-wood, Citrian Santal may be taken; and for the roots of Carduus and Dittany, their leaves and seeds: The rest are vulgar, and easie to be had.

It cures pestilent and contagious diseases, * 1.170 roborates the princi∣pal parts, arceates putretude, kills worms, stayes vomitings, and helps the languid and weak, from what cause soever.

CHAP. 10. Electuarium de Ovo; or, The Electuary of an Egge.

℞ of Saffron ʒ j. ss. or ʒ ij.

Let them be included with the yolk of an Egge in an Egge-shell, open onely at one end, where the white hath had its passage out;

and shut it up with another Egge-shell, or with Paste, and bake it in an oven: Let the matter be taken out, and pulverated small; whereunto, adde

Dittany, Tormentil, of each ʒ ij. Harts-horn, Nux vomica, of each ʒ j. Angelica, Setwel, Juniper-berries, Enula-campane, of each ʒ ij. ss. Cinamon, Mace, of each ʒ j. ss. Camphyr ʒ j. Treacle ℥ ij. and so mix all together: contund them well, and put as much Syrupe of Lem∣mons to them, as will make them into an Electuary.

The COMMENTARY.

The description of this Electuary is as uncertain, as the former's Author's name; for neither are known: Yet there is no Seplasiary so rude, but he will boast, That he hath its best description. I have seen many, but never two alike: that is best, which is divulged by the Augustane Medicks; yet some things therein are not tolerable: for though its ingredients be few, and described in small quantity, yet there is half an ounce of Camphyr, and as much Mustard as may equalize both the Saffron and Egge yolk there prescribed: whereas neither of them may be so admitted; the Mustard being very hot, and not cordial; the Camphyr cordial, but not suaveolent, save in small quantity. Besides, those grave men command the Pow∣ders and the Theriack to be mixed together, without the intervent of Honey, or a Syrupe: and so it cannot be an Opiate, but a Paste, more solid then any mass for Pills. But we have detracted Mustard from it as noxious, and Pimpinella as useless; adding thereto Enu∣la, Mace, and Cinamon, as cordial and bezoardical; we have insti∣tuted a just dosis of Camphyr, an idoneous quantity of Theriack, and a fit Syrupe for their receipt and subaction. It should be a new Hens-egge, of a moderate magnitude, through whose perforated head, the White should be educed, and the Yolk left: what is em∣pty, should be filled with Oriental, not pulverisatous Saffron; and the hole stopped with Paste, or another shell, that nothing might expire; then the included being cocted in a furnace or oven, by a slow fire, must be pulverated, the shells being abjected.

Some disallow of the vomitory Nut, because it is deletery to Dogs and Cats, and subverts Man's ventricle. But we have oft sa∣tisfied to this dubitation, for the nature of Man differs from that of Brutes; for that is often poyson to men, which to beasts is meat. Thus Starlings feed on Hemlock, which is death to man; Aloes and bitter Almonds kill Foxes, which man safely uses. Furthermore, the vomitory Nut being alexiterial, and provoking vomit, is very convenient; for vomits conduce much in contagious diseases, espe∣cially to such, whose first region abounds with prave humours: for the chief parts being thereby purged from their corruption, their faculties are more operative, and apt to oppugn poyson.

The use of this Electuary hath been rare in France hitherto; but I

hope when our emendation is better known, it will be more fre∣quent: for thus described, it is most efficacious for the cure of the Pestilence; for it is a certain small Theriack, which later sedulity hath invented.

It is very commendable, * 1.171 both for the prevention and curation of the Plague, and all pestilent diseases: it is either given alone, or with some conserve, water, or cordial decoction.

CHAP. 12. Mithridatium Damocrat is; or, Damocrates his Mithri∣date, out of Galen.

lb of the best Myrrhe, Saffron, Agarick, Ginger, Cinamon, Spikenard, Olibanum, Treacle, Mustard-seed, of each ʒ x. Massilian Hartwort, Opobalsamum, or Oyl of Nutmegs, Squinant, Arabian Stoechados, the best Costus, Galbanum, Turpentine, Long-Pepper, Castoreum, Juyce of Cistus, Storax, Opoponax, Indian-leaf, of each ℥ j. Cassia-lignea, Mountain-polian, white Pepper, Scordeum, Cretian Carret-seed, Carpo∣balsamum, or in its place Cubebs, Troches of Cypheos, Bdellium, of each ʒ vij. Celtick-Nard, Macedonian Parsley-seed, Gum Arabick, Opium, the lesser Cardamomes, sweet Fennel-seed, Gentian-root, red Rose-leaves, Cretian Dittany, of each ʒ v. Anise-seed, round Birth∣wort, Acorus, Orris of Florence, Valerian, Sagapenum, of each ʒ iij. Cyprian Spignel, Acacia, the tops of S. Johns-wort, the bellies of Scinci (a certain Crocodile in Nilus) of each ʒ ij. ss. Malago or ge∣nerous wine lb j. or as much as will suffice to dissolve the Gummes, Liquors and Juyces; Honey despumed, a treble quantity, or lb ix. and ℥ viij. make it into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

This solemn Antidote is cognominated from its Inventor Mithri∣dates King of Pontus and Bithynia; for he was a most generous and most learned Monarch, who understanding the Languages of twen∣ty two Nations, and having much skill in Medicine, made this noble Antidote against Poyson, whereof he was most afraid: by the use whereof, he lived long free from all virulent and deletery qualities; for being vanquished by Pompey, and fearing he would lead him a∣live in triumph to Rome, he assumed Poyson, from which he received not the least trouble: but becoming weary of longer life, called one Bituitus a Souldier to him, desiring him to kill him; whose slow and detracting trembling hand, he himself forced to his own slaughter, and so was said to have trajected himself, as Appianus hath it. Amongst his treasuries and spoils, there was a Roll of Me∣dicinal Commentations found, which the King had laid up most safely, as the most curious of Secrets. Pompey brought these to Rome, and gave them to the Roman Physicians, as Damocrates and Andro∣machus,

who approved of all the remedies, but especially of the Mithridate, whose description Damocrates rendred in Latine Verses, that it might not be changed: and though he was not its author, but transcriber, yet is it cognominated from him, Damocrates his Mithri∣date. Galen also delivers another description from Andromachus, not much unlike this; but it is not so orderly disposed, but somewhat depraved: for it hath an uncertain dosis of the Indian Leaf, of Gentian, Meum, and Cardamome, and Spikenard twice iterated under two appellatiors, signifying the same thing. There are fur∣thermore, many simples most convenient for this Antidote, left out, as the fruit of Balm, and its fit succedany, Dittany, white Pepper, and Bdellium. It is probable, Andromachus changed the former descri∣ption, either to get some glory, or to vindicate it to himself; or else because he found some such an one amongst the Secrets of Mithri∣dates; or else received it from Pompey: But however, that of Damo∣crates is more frequently prepared, and more celebrated.

Neither was Nic. Praepositus less desirous of vain-glory, who de∣scribed a Pseudo-Mithridate out of Myrepsus, congested of a great heap of Simples, which he, for the most part, described in the bar∣barous Idiome, mixed confusedly, and disposed in undue order and proportion. In brief, that Antidote hath much difficulty in its pre∣paration, and little utility in its exhibition: and therefore we leave it to such as will swear to what-ever he saith; and, like blinde men, will follow their blinking Author whithersoever he leads them.

The chief difficulty in its preparation, is the pervestigation and selection of the simples which we often want, especially such of them as are exotical; in whose stead, we are forced to substitute succedaneous ones; as, for the Oyl of Balm, the Oyl of Cloves or Nutmeg; for the fruit of Balm, Cubebs, or Lentisks-seed; for Fa∣lernian wine, other generous wine; for Attick Honey, indigenous Honey: we have added to this out of the Roman Antidote, the root of Florentine-Orris; and for Arum, which some admit, and others omit, we use round Birth-wort; all the Gummes, Lachrymae, and Succes, save Gum-Arabick, and Olibanum, which should be brayed, must be macerated in wine: in the mean while, the roots must be brayed, and the rest in their order, as we have often denoted. When the Gummes are macerated, they must be a little fervefied, that the wine may be absumed; then both these and the Powders must be levigated, and transmitted through a sieve, and mixed with despu∣med Honey; and so an Opiate must be made, reposed in a fit vessel, and agitated once a day, for the first moneth, with a rudicle; in the second moneth, twice a week; in the third, once a week; in the fourth, thrice of all: and so left, till the sixth moneth, and then once again agitated. * 1.172

It is the most safe praesidy against Poyson, and contagious Dis∣eases: it hath more faculties; but they are so well known, that I shall not need to recenseate them.

CHAP. 12. Theriaca Androm. jurioris, ex Gal. &c. or, Andromachus junior his Theriack out of Galen, who calls it 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, commonly known now by the name of Venice-Treacle.

℞ of the Troches of Squills ʒ xlviij. of the Troches of Vipers, Magna∣tis Hedychroi, Long-Pepper, Opium, of each ʒ xxiiij. dryed Roses, Sclavonian Orris, Juyce of Liquorice, sweet Navew-seed, Scordium, Opobalsamum, Cinamon, Agarick, of each ʒ xij. Myrrhe, sweet-smel∣ling Costus, Corycius Saffron, Cassia-Lignea, Spikenard, * 1.173 Squinant, Olibanum, * 1.174 white Pepper, black Pepper, flowers of Dittany, fresh Horehound, Pontick Rhabarb, Staechas (or Arabian Lavender) Ma∣cedonian Parsley-seed, Mountain-Calamint, Chian Turpentine, the roots of Cinqfoil, and Ginger, of each ʒ vj. Polium from Crete, Ground-pine, Storax, Spignel of Athamas, Celtitk Nard, Amomum, Pontick Valerian, the seed of Cretian Germander, Indian leaf, * 1.175 Vi∣triol, burnt Lemnian Earth, Gentian root, Anise-seed, the Juyce of Cystus, Carpobalsamum, Gum-Arabick, sweet Fennel-seed, Idaean Car∣damomes, the seeds of Hartwort, Treacle, Mustard, and Bishop-weed, S. Johns-wort tops, Acacia, Sagapenum, of each ℥ ss. Ca∣storeum, small Birth-wort-root, Cretian Carret-seed, Judaean Bitu∣men, Tops of the lesser Centaury, Opoponax, Galbanum, of each ʒ ij. generous Wine, as much as will suffice to dissolve the Liquors and Gummes, Narbonian Honey, or any other sort that's good, a treble quantity, or lb xiiij. ss. or as much as will suffice: Make it up according to Art into an Opiate, which keep in an idoneous vessel well covered.

The COMMENTARY.

It is not without ground, that they call Mithridate the Father, and Theriack the Mother of Medicaments; seeing in dignity and excellency they farre exceed all others, and comprehend all others faculties; for there is scarce any preternatural affection, whereunto the one of these duly prepared doth not conduce.

Mithridates is justly made the Author of both; for he invented and congested the matter whereof they both consist: Andromachus and Damocrates disposed it onely more orderly, and added some few things. Thus Theriack had its original from Mithridate, which Criton first so called from a Viper, which the Greeks call 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, whose flesh duly prepared, as we shall hereafter shew, An∣dromachus, Nero's chief Physician, added to Mithridate, and made its faculty, which before was void and imbecile, as to wild beasts and venenate Serpents stings, now most efficacious. And thus of Mi∣thridate is made a Theriack, the most present Remedy against Poy∣son;

from which, all Medicaments that extinguish any poyson, are called Theriacal. Andromachus his sedulity was very commendable, who digested and adorned these two Antidotes with good order and form, which were before without order and form: in imitation whereof, the later age hath described many Compositions and The∣riacks, wherewith some Pharmacopolies are rather onerated then adorned.

All Theriacks tradited by Rhasis, Avicenna, Mesue, Serapio, Paulus, Oribasius, Aetius, Myrepsus, and Neotericks, do not onely dissent from one another, but all from the ancient one delivered by Andromachus; and therefore they are seldome made, but neglected as useless.

And although the Theriack of Andromachus senior be described in Verses, and so may not be perverted; yet that which his Son gives in Prose, is more celebrated; which we here exhibit. However, there is no difference of moment betwixt them.

Many things accede to this confection, which cannot be alwayes had; in whose stead, others must be substituted a like in first or se∣cond qualities, though not in kinde; as when we make one herb succedaneous to another, one seed to another, and one metal to an∣other. But we usurp such substitutes as are indued with like quali∣ties, though we have not the best of that kinde. Thus Galen substi∣tutes Wormwood for bitter Almonds; Doves-dung for Euphorbi∣um; Ginger for Pepper: But now adayes the Parisian Apothecaries spare no cost, in acquiring the most precious and rare Medicaments and Simples; and many of them, that scarce know their seconds, have all the kindes of Aromata's, Precious-stones, and rarest Sim∣ples in their Pharmacopolies: yea, they scorn to let any Simple be unknown, that ingredes the composition of Medicaments.

But if any one, as it often falls out, can neither by Art, Labour, nor Price, acquire some things necessary for confecting this Theri∣ack, he may, in stead of Opobalsamum, which is most rare, subro∣gate Oyl of Cloves, or of Nutmeg; in stead of Costus, Setwel; in stead of Schoenantum, sweet Cane; for Cretian Dittany, indige∣nous; for Amome, Acorus; for Carpobalsamum, Cubebs, or seeds of Lentisks; for Falernian, other generous wine. But nothing must be substituted for Pastils, whose preparation we shall give in the next Section. For want of small Aristolochy, the long may be used; for the Illyrian Orris, the Florentine; for Calcithis, Vitriol: which many think may be omitted, as conducing nothing to the ver∣tue, but onely to the colour of the Theriack: yet if a Theriack should be without that colour, its Confector would be derided for his pains. Others on the contrary hold, that it is upon good grounds admitted, because by its styplicity, it roborates the intrails, and by its siccity arceates putretude: Moreover, it is mixed in small quan∣tity, and half burnt, or else Vitriol in its stead, which is burnt to∣tally, and thence participates of little acrimony. Of old it was otherwise prepared: but the true manner of its confection, is that which we have given to Mithridate.

And as 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 comprehends all venenate and wild Animals in gene∣ral, and by a more peculiar signification denotes a Viper, whose Male is called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and Female 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. so Theriack complects all Anti∣dotes, which either by assumption or admotion tranquillitate dis∣eases: Galen calls it 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉; for it is most expertly alexiterial against all evils: * 1.176 and it cures not onely venenate diseases, but many com∣mon ones; for assumed in sweet wine, it cures diuturnal head∣aches, the Vertigo, heaviness of hearing, hebetude of eyes, Epi∣lepsie, and difficulty of breathing: it emends the vices of the sto∣mack, difficult coction, and imbecility of the ventricle: it cures the inflations, cholical and ileous dolours of the intestines; it kills all kindes of worms, cures swoundings and imbecility: exhi∣bited with the water of Radish-roots, or Pellitory of the wall, it breaks the stone, and helps against the hard mixtion in the reins and bladder: it is of approved use in the inclining to, or beginning of Fevers, especially quartane Agues: it dissipates flatulency, absumes putrid humours in the bowels and ventricle, removes obstructions, emends the colour, helps the palpitation of the heart; moves wo∣mens fluors, ejects the dead birth; and given opportunely, cures Hy∣drophoby, and the bitings of mad Dogs.

CHAP. 13. Opiata Neapolitana; or, The Neapolitan Opiate.

℞ of Senny ℥ j.ss. Hermodacts, Turbith, of each ʒ vj. the shaving of the * 1.177 Holywood, Sarsaperilla, Sassafras, of each ℥ ss. of the best Ho∣ney despumed in the decoction of China-root, and cocted to the absum∣ption of the aqueous humidity lb j. make it into an Opiate.

The COMMENTARY.

There is no Pharmacoean novellist so ignorant, but he can boast of some secret Remedy he hath, for the virulent flux of sperm, or any venereous Ulcer; concerning which affections, and their cures, Empiricks are most busie: whereunto, the vulgarity of Apotheca∣ries frequently run, not without peril; for this kinde of people, being greedy of novelties, and too credulous, will amplect any er∣rour, though capital, so it smell but of Medicine; and take from deceivers their most deletery Medicaments. It is indeed miserable, that such as are unwilling to dye, should yet thrust themselves wil∣lingly into the hands of the killer. I would exhort all worthy A∣pothecaries, to move, induce, and valiantly infer war upon such nefarious wretches, and use onely such remedies as are delivered and approved by most perite and learned Authors.

We describe this Opiate, for the help of such Youngsters as Venery hath caught: it is Invented by much Reason, described by much Art, and proved by much Experience; for given when and

where it should, it successfully cures the Indian Pox, which they call the Neapolitan Disease: whence it is justly cognominated the Neapolitan Opiate. We have often seen another of the same name, in the Parisian Chirurgeons hands; which being ill descri∣bed at first, was daily changed by every fresh-man: for some one∣ly make it of Guaiacum, Senny, Honey, and Aqua-vitae; others adde Bayberries: some take away Guaiacum, and substitute Sarsa∣perilla; some approve of Hermodactyls, others Turbith, others both, and some neither. We exhibit it according to the prescript established and proved by Reason and Effect. Some adde Aqua∣vitae; but I think Cinamon-water is more conducible: but neither, to hot waters; either, to cold ones.

It cures the Venereous Disease: it is given every other day, and oftentimes every morning fasting, from ʒ ij. to ℥ ss. It is most con∣venient for such, as for business cannot lye long, and stay much in their Cubicles.

We have omitted many other Antidotes, described by Mesue, Actuarius, Myrepsus, and Praepositus; whose composition is not pro∣bable, nor use laudable: before which, we prefer these we have transcribed. For Zazenea, Atanasia, both the Requies of Nicho∣laus, Diasulphur, Acaristum, Adrianum, and the confection of Storax, are seldome or never prepared, because Asyncritum, both in facility in preparation, and faculty in operation, is much be∣fore them all: For their chief vertue consisting in conciliating sleep, it is enough that we have one or two Medicaments, as Pills of Dogs-tongue, and the Roman Philonium, that can with felicity effect this end.

And we judge the same of Alfessera, of Esdra, and of the Ha∣magogous Antidote; and other almost innumerable Confections, collected by Authors, or rather Transcriptors, which would make a man nauseate their number.

SECT. III. Of Alterative and Roborative Trochisks.

VVE have hitherto exhibited Roboratives in form of Powders, soft Electuaries, and Opiates. It now rests, before we put an end to this Book, that we explicate all Trochisks of consimilar vertues, and all necessary for Pharmacopolies; as well those which are compounded, that they may ingrede the confection of other Medicaments, as those that are given alone, and serve to the benefit of no others. And lest we should have confusedly congested Roborative and Purgative Trochisks together, as many do, and that perperously; we have adjoyned all the Cathartical, as Trochisks of Rhabarb, of Agarick, and of Alhandal, to the end of the third Section of our second Book. And now acceding to the explication of Roborative and Alterative Trochisks, we shall begin with those that consti∣tute parts of Mithridate and Treacle.

CHAP. 1. Trochisci de Vipera; or, Trochisks of Vipers.

℞ of the flesh of Vipers boyled in water with Dill and Salt lb ss. the Medulla of the whitest Bread, dryed and powdered ℥ ij. beat them well together; and with hands anointed with Opobalsamum, or its suc∣cidency, make little Troches, every one to weigh ʒ j. dry them to keep.

The COMMENTARY.

These are called Viperine or Theriacal Pastils; for whose confe∣ction, the Vipers must be taken about the end of the Spring, or be∣ginning of Summer, when they have been recreated with their wonted meat and air: The Female should be rather selected then the Male, but not while pregnant; but agile, with a long neck, a fiery aspect, rutilous and red eyes, a broad compressed head, a snout reflected upwards, an ample belly, a tayl not involved, grow∣ing more gracile by little and little, void of flesh, a firm, but slow pace. The Males tayl grows sensibly more gracile, and is not de∣stitute of flesh; the trunk of its body is smaller, its neck thicker, its head more august, with onely two canine teeth; the Female hath four. Such as inhabit salt and maritimous places, are not selegible; those that are taken new, are better then the old. But that they may be rightly prepared, they should be killed with Rods; for their anger being thereby incensed, they will spit out their poyson. Their head and tayl must be abscinded from them when beaten, each of them to the measure of four fingers, which is enough in greater Vipers: those, which after this amputation, move no longer, nor

effuse any more blood, but lye still, and are exanguous, must be re∣jected as useless: The useful must be excoriated, eviscerated, and purged from all their fatness, washed well three or four times in clear water, and then cocted in a fit pot, with sufficient of water, with a little Salt, and more or less of green Dill, as the number of the Vipers is, in the prudent Apothecaries judgement; as, one handful and a half, or two, for four or five Vipers: which number will make up three ounces of Trochisks, requisite for the confe∣ction of the Theriack. They must be cocted on a luculent, but not a violent fire, without smoke, that their flesh may be easily de∣tracted from their spina; then the separated flesh must be brayed in a stone-Morter, with a wooden-Pestel, exactly: whereunto, in pulveration, a third or fourth part of dry pulverated white-bread must be adjected, that six dragms, or one ounce of bread, may re∣spond to four ounces of flesh. He that addes more bread, makes the Pastils more imbecile; and he that addes less, more effica∣cious.

The flesh and bread thus mixed by triture, and subacted into Paste, must be made into Pastils or Orbicles. They act perperously, who inject any of the broath, wherein this flesh was decocted, into the triture; for so it becomes too humid, the Trochisks thereof too rancid, contracting filth, and not easie to be exsiccated: they must be small, and composed with hands anointed with the Oyl of Balm, Cloves, or Nutmeg; they must be reposed, dryed, and kept daily in a dry, but not an aprique place.

They are indued with much vertue against the bitings of vene∣nate Animals: * 1.178 from them the Theriack mutuates its so profitable a faculty, and all other things that help the Leprosie, and bitings of mad Dogs.

CHAP. 2. Trochisci Hedychroi; or, Sweet-smelling Trochisks. D. Androm. out of Galen.

℞ Aloes-wood, Asarabacca-root, the herb Mastick, and sweet-Mar••o∣ran, of each ʒ ij. Calamus aromaticus, Squinant, Costus, Pontick Valerian, Opobalsamum, Xylobalsamum, of each ʒ iij. Indian Leaf, Spikenard, Cassia-Lignea, Myrrhe, Saffron, of each ʒ vj. Amomi ʒ xij. Mastick ʒ j. all which, with generous Wine, bring into a mass, which form into Pastils.

The COMMENTARY.

Andromachus did prudently, to write this description in Verses; for if he had done otherwise, it would have retained little or nothing of its pristine integrity, seeing Galen is found in the description, and in the defining the dosis of the Simples. Rhasis and Avicenna

are not excusable, who rather for novelties or vanities sake, then want of Simples, changed the Trochisks: The European Medicks do not subvert, but substitute in such compounds as are rationally and legitimately described. And it is more easie to get the descri∣ptions of the Arabian and Graecian Medicaments, then the Simples whereof they consist; though they must be very rare, if our Pari∣sian Apothecaries compass them not. He that hath not all oppor∣tunely in readiness, may for Asphalathum repose Citrian Santal; for Marum, true Majoran, or Dittany; for Amaracum, Mother∣wort; for Costum, Angelica; for Xylobalsamum, Wood of Aloes or Lentisks; for Cassia, Cinamon; for Amomum, Aco∣rus.

Rhasis and Avicenna adde the bark of the root of Darsihahan; but what Plant that is, is neither apparent by its name, form, nor fa∣culties. They call these Trochisci Andaracari; but Andromachus and Galen, Hedychroi; some, Idiocry, from the author Idiocrius and Idio∣crytus, that first composed it: for its confection, first the roots must be prepared, then the Aromata's, afterwards the rest; but Saffron, Mastick, and Myrrhe, which is last, must be prepated apart, and first mixed with wine; then the other Powders; at length, the Oyl of Balm, or for want thereof, of Cloves: these all brayed and sub∣acted, will make a mass, whereof Trochisks must be made, and dryed in a shade.

But these are not made, save when Theriack calls for them; therefore they are onely dispensed in small quantity, * 1.179 yet consisting of many efficacious Simples: they may be given alone, for the cure of many evils; as Aetius noted in a certain rich man, who de∣sired an odorate Medicine for the cure of his Ozena; to whom he gave these Pastils, subacted with old odorate fragrant wine: and, saith he, it was strange to see how soon his affection was cured.

CHAP. 3. Trochisci Stillitici; or, Trochisks of Squills. D.Androm.

℞ of baked Squills lb j. the flower of Orobs ℥ viij. beat them in a Morter, and make thereof a Paste; of which, form Troches, and dry them in a shade.

The COMMENTARY.

These Pastils of Squills are also made for Theriacks sake, which should, by Galen's advice, be made after this manner: Squills must be collected in the middle of June, their exteriour bark deraded, the inferiour parts, whereby they adhere to their fibrous Rudicles, must be cut off, separated, and abjected; they must be involved in Bar∣ley Paste well subacted, not in Clay; and then cocted in hot ashes, or rather in a furnace or oven, till the Paste be hard, and the Squills

soft; then their exteriour crust, and interiour pith, must be taken, washed, and brayed in a Morter: whereunto, a third part of the cribrated flower of white Orobs must be adjected, as eight ounces of Orobs, to one pound of Squills; all which, well subacted, make a mass, whereof Trochisks may be formed, which must be dryed in the shade.

The true and best Squills must be selected, as the Spanish Squills; they should be evelled in July or August, or a little sooner or later, when their whole stalk and leaves are crupted.

White Ervy or Orobs also must be chosen, not yellowish; which are not so amare, and yet more alexiterial: some take the root of white Dittany, in stead of white Ervy; but Ervy being frequent, it is better, with Andromachus and Galen, to admit of the genuine de∣scription, then substitute any thing without necessity, and defraud the Author of his minde.

Trochisks of Squills incide viscid and crass humours, * 1.180 take away infarctures, hinder putretude, cure the Epilepsie, and venenate dis∣cases.

CHAP. 4. Trochisci Cypheos. D.Androm.

℞ of the pulp of Raisins, well cleansed from their stones and skins, pure Turpentine, of each ʒ xxiiij. Myrrhe, Squinant, of each ℥ j.ss. Ci∣namon ℥ ss. Bdellium, Spikenard, Cassia-Lignea, Cyprus-root, Juni∣per-berries, of each ʒ iij. Calamus Aromaticus ʒ ix. Aloes-wood ʒ ij. ss. Saffron ʒ j. of the best Honey, as much as will suffice, with a little wine, to make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

Cyphi is an ancient word, denoting Perfumes and Odoraments, from whence Mithridates cognominates these Trochisks, which Damocrates afterwards described in Verse: they consist of many odorate sim∣ples, which give a convenient name, and commendable effect to the confection; which the King of Pontus well knew, when he mix∣ed them with his Antidote, which he would denominate after his own name.

The preparation is neither difficult, nor laborious; the Myrrhe and Bdellium must first be diduced in generous wine: whereunto, Tur∣pentine must be first added; then the pulp of cleansed Raisins, and then the Powders: all must be received, and subacted in despumed Honey into a mass; whereof Trochisks may be formed, which must be dryed in a shade, and reposed and kept in a glass or earthen pot.

They are not onely used in perfecting Mithridate, * 1.181 but are given alone to Ulcers, and many affections of the Lungs and Liver.

CHAP. 5. Trochisci Galliae Moschatae. D.Mes.

℞ of the best Aloes-wood ʒ ij.ss. Amber ʒ j. Mosch ʒ ss. Gum-Thra∣ganth dissolved in Rose-water, as much as will suffice to make it into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

The word Gallia no little troubled Jac. Manlius, in seeking to ac∣commodate the reason of that name to these Trochisks: one while he refers it to an odoriferous Herb; another while to some Province in France: but that Herb is fictitious, and Mesue never dreamed of France in his life: Neither is it probable did he design this Composition by the name of Gallia; for aromatical Confe∣ctions are by the Arabians called Alephanginae, as consisting of hot∣ter Aromata's; and sometimes by Rhasis, Ramich; and more speci∣ally Such, when they are compounded of Musk, Amber, Civet, and such suaveolent things. But these may rather be called the sweet Trochisks of Aloes-wood, then of Gallia. Yet I do not yield to change the name, which a whole age hath received and approved: neither will I labour in the pervestigation of the name, where I know the thing.

For their preparation, each must be brayed apart; and first Aloes-wood, then Amber, last Musk; then all must be received in Tragacanthum diluted in Rose-water, and made into Trochisks, which will emit a pleasant halite: but Pharmacopolists keep them more for sanity then for suavity. There is much mention of them in many Medicaments which they ingrede.

They recreate the heart, * 1.182 brain, and spirits, commend the odour of the body, roborate the imbecility and vomitory distemper of childrens ventricles, and resartiate lost strength.

CHAP. 6. Trochisci Aliptae Moschatae. D.N.Sal.

℞ Ladanum ℥ iij. Storax ℥ ij. ss. Aloes-wood ʒ ij. Amber ʒ j. Camphyr ℈ ss. Mosch ℈ j. and with Rose-water, let them be formed into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

These Trochisks are seldomer made then the former, although in halite, suavity and odour, they are very affine: they are laboriously made, after Salernitanus his description; but easily thus: Lada∣num must be brayed in a hot Copper-Morter, with a hot Iron-Pestel,

in Rose-water, till by much duction and agitation, it become like a smooth Unguent, without the least asperity; then must the Storax be added, and much diduced with the Pestel; afterwards Xylo-aloes, Camphyr, Musk, and Amber, washed apart in a little Rose-water in another vessel, all brayed, confusedly mixed, and sub∣acted into a mass, may be made into Trochisks, dryed in a shade, and reposed in pots.

They most efficaciously corroborate the brain, heart, liver, * 1.183 ven∣tricle, and all nutritive parts, and refresh the spirits.

CHAP. 7. Pastilli Nerae. D.N.

℞ of the best Amber ℥ j. Aloes-wood ʒ iij. Mosch ℈ ss. Camphyr gr. ij. and with musilidge of Gum-Thraganth, or liquid Amber, form them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

The Trochisks of Nera, so called, as it is credited, from the In∣ventor, are very precious, and very rarely confected, save for Prin∣ces and Kings: neither should they be prepared in great quantity, & kept in shops, but be forthwith confected, when use calls for them: they differ from those of Gallia, onely in the dosis of the Simples, and superaddition of Camphyr. That they may be duly confect∣ed, the Amber must be mollified in a hot Morter, with a hot Pestel, and Aloes-wood, very small pulverated, added to it; then the Musk must be brayed alone, and last of all the Camphyr: all must be well agitated, subacted, and mollified, and a little Oyl, liquid Amber, or Opobalsamum superadded, that they may be coacted into a more convenient mass; whereof Pastils may be formed.

They have the same faculties with Trochisks of Gallia, but more efficacious: Noble-men oftner use them for Persumes.

CHAP. 8. Trochisci de Caphura; or, Trochisks of Camphyr. D.Myr.

℞ of Camphyr ʒ ss. Saffron ʒ ij. Storax ʒ iij. red Roses, Gum-Arabick, Thraganth, shavings of Ivory, of each ʒ ss. the seeds of Cucumer and Purslain, Liquorice beaten, of each ℥ j. and with musilidge of Fleabit-seed, made in Rose-water, make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

Of the various sorts of Trochisks of Camphyr described by the Ancients, that is onely made, which Mesue prescribes for hot Fevers, the ardour of Bile, and of the Liver, Blood and Ventricle, and thirst inextinguishable; but it consisting of many hot Simples, as

Spikenard, Xylo-aloes, Saffron, and Cardamome, I cannot easily conjecture, how it can effect these things. I exhibit others of the same name, much better, more efficacious for those ends, and more casie to make, out of Myrepsus; in whose description, I finde no∣thing mutable, but the order of the Simples: onely in stead of Spo∣dium, if there be any such thing besides Pompholix, or the Graeci∣an, I would rather exhibit crude Ivory then burnt, for many reasons before-urged. The preparation is neither troublesome nor labori∣ous: the powder or scrapings of Ivory must be levigated apart, and also the other simples, Saffron, Camphyr, Amylum, Roses and Liquorice; the Gummes must be brayed in a hot Morter, Cucu∣mers-seed must be decorticated, then minutely cut and levigated; then must they all be received in the musilidge of Fleabane, and made into a Paste for Trochisks.

They mitigate the heat of the liver and other bowels, * 1.184 temperate the acrimony of Bile, and stay the fluor of humours delabing upon ••he Lungs.

CHAP. 9. Trochisci Diarrhodon. D.Mes.

℞ of red Roses ℥ j. Liquorice ℥ ss. Spikenard, Aloes-wood, of each ʒ ij. and ℈ ij. Mastick ʒ ij. burnt Ivory ℈ iiij. Saffron ℈ ij. make them into Troches with white-wine.

The COMMENTARY.

Various Authors give various descriptions of these Pastils: for every one at his pleasure addes, detracts, perverts, changes, and of∣tentimes designs the same Medicament with divers names, calling two or three by one word of the same acceptation. Besides this of the Trochisks of Diarrhodon, or of Roses, Mesue describes others, whose significations include others. Their reasons are futilous, who endeavor to prove the diversity of these, from the diversity of names: But if I may, with an approved Author, speak my minde, I will call these the Trochisks of Diarrhodon, and not of Roses; whose preparation further to declare, were superfluous, seeing it bears nothing of difficulty in it. In stead of Spodium, we put the vulgar Antispodium, which is burnt Ivory.

They cure pituitous, * 1.185 inveterate, and implicite Fevers; they allay the dolours of the ventricle, and deterge the humours adherent thereunto: they are mixed in many great compounds described by Mesue.

There are other Troches of Diarrhodon described by Myrepsus, which are made after this manner:

℞ of red Roses ʒ iij. Spodium ʒ ij. red Sanders ʒ j. ss. gr. vij. white San∣ders ʒ j. gr. xij. Saffron ℈ ij. ss. Camphyr ℈ ss. which with Rose-water form into Troches.

CHAP. 10. Trochisci de Carabe; or, Troches of Amber. D.Mes.

℞ Amber ℥ j. Harts-horn burnt, Gum-Arabick burnt, Thraganth, Coral burnt, Acacia, Juyce of Cystus, Balaustians, Mastick, black Poppy-seed, of each ʒ ij. and ℈ ij. Olibanum, Saffron, Opium, of each ʒ ij. and with the mufilidge of Fleabane-seed, form them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

I have selected these Pastils of Mesue, as most efficacious amongst fifteen of that name, described by as many Authors: a great part whereof are onely nominally like these. They are denominated from Amber, which the Arabians call Karabe; and the Graecians Ele∣ctrum; which is very good to roborate the bowels, cohibit bloody flux, and stay the Rheumatism of the Uterus. Its incrassative fa∣culty is augmented by the interjection of Gumme and Opium; its astrictive faculty by the shrubs of Cistus and Acacia; Opium is castigated by Saffron; the ventricle is roborated by Mastick; all are comprehended in the musilidge of Fleabane, and the asperity of their parts levigated. Mesue commands many things to be burned for their preparation; but if they be admitted crude, the Medica∣ment will be no worse: for if Harts-horn or Coral have any exi∣mious vertue in them, it is probable they have it while crude, and not by ustion. I am not ignorant, what ustion conduces to Medi∣caments, what it takes from them, or what it addes to them; onely some are so weak, that they will not indure such preparation without much loss: But let those burn them that will, so they re∣tain their faculties with their ashes. Acacia and Hypocistis should be first minutely cut, then pulverated with Pomegranate-flowers, and then the rest: Trochisks may be made of all of them, brayed in order, and by art, with the musilidge of Fleabane.

They are roborative and astrictive: * 1.186 one dragm of them taken in Plantain or Rose-water, stay all flux of blood, especially from the upper region of the body, the Lungs, Liver, Reins, Uterus and Hae∣morrhoids; they cure the Dysentery, whether assumed at the mouth, or injected at the Fundament.

CHAP. 11. Trochisci de Antispodio; or, Trochisks of Antispodium. D.Mes.

℞ of red Roses ʒ vij. Antispodium, or burnt Ivory ℥ ss. Purslain-seed, Juyce of Liquorice, of each ʒ ij. and with the musilidge of Fleabane∣seed, make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

If we may babble with others, we shall call these Pastils, the Trochisks of Spodium, though unwillingly; for Spodium is not Basis, but rather Antispodium, which vulgar Apothecaries usurp for the burnt roots of Tabaxir: But let that Pseudospodium, and the Arabian Spodium be gone, these Trochisks are made and deno∣minated from Antispodium, so called by us, with the addition of Roses, Purslain-seed, and Liquorice-juyce, complected in the succe of Fleabane.

And thus made, * 1.187 they do not onely ingrede the composition of the Electuary of Psyllam, but are given alone in acute Fevers, inflam∣mations of the Liver, and vehement thirstings.

Mesue gives others more compound, admitting of Sorrel-feed, the pulp of Sumach, Amylum, Coriander, Pomegranate-flowers, Berberries, and Gumme-Arabick excepted in the succe of Ompha∣cium: But they are less usual, and agree not with the said Ele∣ctuary.

CHAP. 12. Trochisci de Berberis; or, Trochisks of Berberries.

℞ of the berries of Berberries with their Juyce, of the Juyce of Liquo∣rice, the seeds of Purslain, burnt Ivory, of each ʒ iij. red Roses ʒ vj. Spikenard, Saffron, Starch, Thraganth, of each ʒ j. Camphyr ʒ ss. and with Manna dissolved in the Juyce of Berberries, make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

Mesue hath another description of the same name, but now ob∣solete. Serapio, A••icenna, and others that write Antidotaries, have many also; but this, as best, may serve in stead of all: which must be thus prepared: The Spikenard, Purslain-seed, and Liquorice∣juyce, must first be incided, then brayed with Roses; but Spodium, Amylum, Camphyr, and Tragacamhum, apart: when all are brayed, they must with Manna be excepted in the melted succe of Berberries, and made into a mass for Trochisks.

They are commended in hot Fevers, * 1.188 and the hot distemper of the Liver and Ventricle; as also in inextinguishable thirst, and flux of the Belly: they also accede the composition of the Electuary of Sea-leeks, according to Mesue's description; who, according to his Interpreters traduction, calls them Trochisks of Oxyacantha: but they ingrede not the Electuary of Roses delivered by Mesue, as Foesius thinks. They are made in small quantity, because they serve most for other compositions.

CHAP. 13. Trochisci Gordonii.

℞ of the four greater cool seeds picked, of the seeds of white Poppy, Mallows, Cotton, Purslain, Quinces, Myrtles, Gum-Arabick, Thra∣ganth, Pine-kernels, Pistacks, Sugar-candy, Penidees, Liquorice, Barley, the musilidge of Fleabane, sweet Almonds excorticated, of each ʒ ij. Bole-Armeniack, Dragons-blood, Spodium, Rose-leaves, Myrrhe, of each ℥ ss. and with Hydromel make them into Troches; let every one weigh ʒ j.

The COMMENTARY.

These Pastils are by Bauderonius faithfully, by Joubertus depravedly described; for he changed not onely the weight of the Simples, but adjoyned others too precious, and not necessary. Their com∣position is manifold, for they consist of refrigeratives, detersives, astrictives, roboratives, lenitives, and some apertives: some of them are prepared by vulgar triture, pulverated solely by the percussion of a Pestel; as the roots, woods, harder seeds, gummes, Bole∣armeniack, and Myrrhe: yet these two last should not be pulvera∣ted confusedly, but apart. Some must first be cut small, then brayed, and mixed with others; when they are all well brayed, they must be confusedly mixed with the succe of Sea-onyons and Hydromel, and so coacted for Trochisks.

Now for Dragons-blood, we must neither take Dioscorides his Cinnabris, nor with Pliny, the blood of a Serpent, or other Animal; nor yet any thing made of Cynople, Bole-armeniack, or Sorbes and Bricks brayed and subacted; but the Lachryma of a certain exoti∣cal tree called Draco, as we have taught in our Book of Simples.

Gordonius prescribes them to the Ulcers of the Reins; * 1.189 and they are also good for the Ulcers of other internal parts; for they le∣niate, deterge, allay acrimony, and roborate: One dragm exhi∣bited in Milk, much helps internal Ulcers; which, if they be in the Bladder, it must be distempered with Milk, and projected by a pipe.

CHAP. 14. Trochisci de Capparibus; or, Troches of Capers.

℞ of the bark of the roots of Capers, Vine-seed, of each ʒ vj. Gumme-Ammoniacum ℥ ss. Gith, Calamint, Acorus, bitter Almonds, Cress∣seeds, Rue, round Birthwort, Juyce of Egrimony, boyled up to a good consistence, of each ʒ j. which after triture, with Ammoniacum dis∣solved, form them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

We have admitted of Mesue's old description, without any im∣mutation, as performing what it pollicitates; for these, of all in∣cisive and reserative Trochisks, are the most efficacious, consisting of many things, which attenuate and incide crass, melancholical, and terrene humours, take away infarctures, and mollifie hardness. Whereunto, if any will adde of the Gumme of Lacca and Madder, an. ʒ j. he shall make them much more efficacious; and he shall not need Trochisks of Lacca, because the Trochisks of Capers are enough, according to Plantius, for the obstructions of the Spleen, and old affections. Both these and the superiour are made alike. Ammoniack must be dissolved in Vinegar, cocted to the consistence of Honey, and therein the Powders subacted for Trochisks.

They are much commended against all obstructions, * 1.190 hardness, inflations, and preternatural tumours in the Spleen and Liver: they help in the Kings-Evil, and the beginning Dropsie; they take away infarctures, and discuss flatulency: their dosis is one dragm with tenuious wine, or the water of the decoction of Capers-roots, ashes, or Tamarisks-bark. Mesue saith, some make them more valid, by duplicating the Ammoniack.

CHAP. 15. Trochisci de Myrrha; or, Trochisks of Myrrhe. D.Rhas.

℞ of Myrrhe ʒ iij. Lupines ʒ v. Rue, Horsemint, Penyroyal, Cumin, Madder, Assafoetida, Opoponax, of each ʒ ij. and with the Juyce of Mugwort, make them into Troches, every one weighing ʒ ij.

The COMMENTARY.

These Trochisks described by Rhasis, denominated from Myrrhe, and used by all Medicks, must in no wise be omitted; to whose composition, many things accede, which liberate the Mesentery from obstructions, diduce the passages, take away infarctures, and potently deturb such humours as either with their abundance aggra∣vate, or quality offend. That they may be duly confected, the Gummes must be melted in the hot decoction or succe of Mug∣wort; then trajected through a linen cloth, to dissipate their aque∣ous humidity, that they may be of the consistence of Honey.

Hereunto must the other simples, when pulverated very small, be added: for such things as remove obstructions, open passages, and protrude any matter forth, should be levigated very small: for Asa∣rum, and many simples redacted to most subtile dust by triture, move urine copiously, which when brayed more crassly, stay longer, and work more dully.

These Pastils are frequently used, when fluors retard their course, when secunds are retained, and lochia suppressed: they are given from ʒ j. to ʒ ij. ss. and sometimes to ʒ iij. with water, or a fit de∣coction.

CHAP. 16. Trochisci Alexiterii; or, Alexiterial, or Trochisks against the Plague.

℞ of the roots of Gentian, Tormentil, Florentine-Orris, Setwel, of each ʒ ij. Cinamon, Cloves, Mace, of each ʒ ss. Ginger ʒ j. Angelica∣root ʒ ij. Coriander prepared, Rose-leaves, of each ʒ j. Citron-pill dryed ʒ ij. make of these a Powder, and with the Juyce of Liquorice ℥ vj. make it into a soft Paste; of which form either Troches or Rolls.

The COMMENTARY.

These Trochisks are very convenient for the prevention of the Plague; for a little of them detained in ones mouth, leaves a grate∣ful sapour, and an odour which arceates and emends the malign qua∣lity of the inquinated air, hindring it from infecting the spirits: for such things as are insipid and inodorate, as Unicorns-horn, Be∣zaar-stone, Margarites, Precious-stones, and many more obsistents to poyson, exert their faculties, onely when ingested into the body, or some way infused; which are almost inefficacious, if onely con∣tained in the mouth, emitting no sapour or halite, whereby the fe∣rity of the air may be tamed.

But these Trochisks, whether they be onely detained in the mouth, or ingested into the ventricle, they are of eximious faculties, and most efficacious in evincing pestilent poyson. That they may be duly made, the Liquorice juyce, wherein the powders must be ex∣cepted, must be mollified in St. Maries Bath, till it be ducible, and may be concorporated with the whole quantity of powders; which, to the perite, will be but easie, though to the inexpert it seems too operous: who may adde thereto a little Hypocras, or such conve∣nient liquor, that he may have the Paste soft for Pastils. What Hypocras is, is well known; it is made of lb ij. of blackish Wine, lb ss. of Sugar, and ℥ ss. of Cinamon: some adde ʒ ss. of Ginger, and ℈ j. of Cloves.

CHAP. 17. Trochisci Hysterici; or, Hysterical Troches.

℞ Assafoetida, Galbanum, of each ʒ ij. ss. Myrrhe ʒ ij. Castoreum ʒ j.ss. Asarabacca, Savine, Birthwort, Nep, Motherwort, of each ʒ j. Dit∣tany ʒ ss. and either with the Juyce, or the decoction of Rue, make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

We call these our Pastils Hysterical, because they cure the aber∣ration of the Uterus, and other hysterical affections; for being as∣sumed, they compel, stay, and hinder the Uterus, or vapours from thence ascending upwards, and those most grievous symptomes which follow thereupon: For the Uterns delighting in odorate things, though not under the species of odour, is resisted by these foetid Trochisks from its ascent: and further, by opening the passages, and loosing obstructions, they protrude the prave humours that are in womans continents.

They are easily made, if the pulverables be pulverated small, and be comprehended in the Gummes macerated in the decoction or succe of Rue strained, and elixated to the consistence of Ho∣ney.

They cure the foetid colours of Virgins and Widows, * 1.191 and help all those symptomes which proceed from the filthy vapours of the sperm, or of corrupt menstruous blood, or of the Uterus ascending to the Midriff.

CHAP. 18. Trochisci ad Gonorrhaeam; or, Trochisks for the flux of Sperm.

℞ of the seeds of the white Vine, and Lettice, Roses, Pomegranate∣flowers, of each ʒ j. shavings of Ivory, Amber, of each ʒ j. ss. Bole∣armeniack washed in Knotgrass-water ʒ ij. Plantain-seed ℈ iiij. Sas∣safras ℈ ij. and with the musilidge of Quince-seeds, extracted in the water of Water-Lillies, make them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

The flux of Sperm is either voluntary, as in copulation; or in∣voluntary, as when it flows without venery: and that flux is ei∣ther simple, participating of no malign quality, proceeding either from the plenitude and quality of the seed, or from labour, run∣ning, equitation, and too much use of hot peppered things; or else it is virulent, which is contracted by impure congress, toge∣ther with the French Pox; wherein white poyson, or greenly flave, falls from the seminals, without sense, whether waking or sleeping. This disease is often as ill in women as men, especially when it is so strong, as it can creep over, and affect all the parts of the body.

Our Pastils are good for both; * 1.192 for the simple, if the body be before blooded; and for the virulent, while incipient, and not in∣veterate, if the body be once or twice purged before, and the

blood diminished: they are given with the decoction of the seeds of Poppy and Melons, or with Rose-water. Their dosis is from ʒ j. to ʒ ij. ss. or ʒ iij. at the most. These, as also the precedents, are easie to make.

Of two sorts of Trochisks which are extrin∣secally adhibited.

CHAP. 19. Trochisci Narcotici; or, Narcotical Trochisks. D.Fern.

℞ Gummes of Arabick and Thraganth, Starch, of each ℥ ss. Ceruse washed in Rose-water ʒ vj. Storax, Myrrhe, Castoreum, Opium dis∣solved in Sape, of each ℈ iiij. Saffron ʒ ss. let all these be beaten, and with the musilidge of Fleabane-seed, form them into Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

There are yet two usual sorts of Pastils onely adhibited extrinse∣cally, which we rather here adjoyn, then deferre to the second Part of our Shop, though it treat of Medicaments extrinsecally adhi∣bited: the former of them Fernelius calls Narcotical Trochisks, because when applyed, they drown the sense, by stupefying the part. The composition of these is apt, their use necessary, and none of like efficacy have been known. For their preparation, all their in∣gredients must be brayed apart, and then mixed confusedly, and excepted in the succe of the seed of Fleabane, and coacted for Trochisks.

These Pastils duly applyed, * 1.193 drown the dolours of head and tooth-aches: they procure sleep in the ardour of Fevers; they ex∣tinguish St. Anthony's fire, and inflammations; they allay the do∣lours of all external parts.

CHAP. 20. Trochisci Albi; or, White Trochisks. D.Rhas.

℞ Ceruse washed in Rose-water ʒ x. clear Sarcocolla ʒ x. Starch ʒ ij. Gumme-Arabick, Thraganth, of each ʒ j. Camphyr ʒ ss. and with womans Milk, make them into little Troches.

The COMMENTARY.

The Arabians enumerate these Trochisks amongst Sief or Col∣lyries. The Neotericks have very much changed their old descri∣ption;

for some have added Gumme-Arabick, others Amylum; some reject Opium, and substitute Camphyr: for thus the Pastils are whiter, and more efficacious and useful in ocular affections; but in bitter dolours, Opium should be added, or they should be prepared after two manners, as Joubertus saith, with or without Opium, as the exigence requires; or a little Opium may be added when use calls for them. The preparation is so easie, as it needs no further explication.

They are very conducible to many ocular affections: * 1.194 for they allay their dolours, mitigate their inflammations, stay their fluxions, deterge, exsiccate and digest the matter, and roborate the part.

Now I think I have recenseated the most usual and principal Pa∣stils which should be kept in Pharmacopolies: for others, which occurre in vulgar Antidotaries, are either of none use, or disappro∣ved; or else they may be easily comprehended under these, and supplyed by them.

Finis Libri Tertii.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Anacar∣dium.
• * 1.2

  An Insusion∣pot. The Author appoints an equal quantity of sugar to the infusion.
• * 1.3

  Qualitates.
• * 1.4

  Vires.
• * 1.5

  Vires.
• * 1.6

  Vires.
• * 1.7

  Vires.
• * 1.8

  Vires.
• * 1.9

  Vires.
• * 1.10

  Vires.
• * 1.11

  Vires.
• * 1.12

  Vires.
• * 1.13

  Why liquorice must not be long boyled.
• * 1.14

  Qualitates.
• * 1.15

  Qualitates.
• * 1.16

  Vires.
• * 1.17

  Vires.
• * 1.18

  Vires.
• * 1.19

  Vires.
• * 1.20

  Vires.
• * 1.21

  Qualitates.
• * 1.22

  Vires.
• * 1.23

  Vires.
• * 1.24

  Before they be ripe.
• * 1.25

  ∵ Wine boyl∣ed to a good consistence.
• * 1.26

  Vires.
• * 1.27

  Vires.
• * 1.28

  Vires.
• * 1.29

  Vires.
• * 1.30

  Vires.
• * 1.31

  Vires.
• * 1.32

  Let the Saf∣fron be hung in a Nodule whilest the sy∣rupe is a boyl∣ing.
• * 1.33

  Vires.
• * 1.34

  Rhois Cu∣linariae.
• * 1.35

  Vires.
• * 1.36

  Muzorum. Acido-dul∣cium.
• * 1.37

  Vires.
• * 1.38

  Red Roses.
• * 1.39

  Vires.
• * 1.40

  Vires.
• * 1.41

  Vires.
• * 1.42

  Vires.
• * 1.43

  Vires.
• * 1.44

  Vires.
• * 1.45

  Vires.
• * 1.46

  Syr. de Ar∣temisia sim∣pliciter.
• * 1.47

  Vires.
• * 1.48

  White Ua∣gula Cala∣linae.
• * 1.49

  Vires.
• * 1.50

  Vires.
• * 1.51

  Vires.
• * 1.52

  Vires.
• * 1.53

  How to make Mede.
• * 1.54

  Oinomel.
• * 1.55

  Metegla.
• * 1.56

  Metheaglen
• * 1.57

  For 40 days.
• * 1.58

  Vires.
• * 1.59

  Vires.
• * 1.60

  Vires.
• * 1.61

  Vires.
• * 1.62

  Vires.
• * 1.63

  Vires.
• * 1.64

  Vires.
• * 1.65

  Vires.
• * 1.66

  Vires.
• * 1.67

  Vires.
• * 1.68

  Vires.
• * 1.69

  Vires.
• * 1.70

  Vires.
• * 1.71

  Vires.
• * 1.72

  Vires Salviae.
• * 1.73

  Vires.
• * 1.74

  Vires.
• * 1.75

  Vires.
• * 1.76

  Vires.
• * 1.77

  Sic Radices Buglossi condiuntur.
• * 1.78

  Vires.
• * 1.79

  Vires.
• * 1.80

  Viret.
• * 1.81

  Vires.
• * 1.82

  Vires.
• * 1.83

  Vires.
• * 1.84

  Vires.
• * 1.85

  Vires.
• * 1.86

  Vires.
• * 1.87

  Vires.
• * 1.88

  Vires.
• * 1.89

  Vires.
• * 1.90

  Epithi∣mum.
• * 1.91

  Vires.
• * 1.92

  Vires.
• * 1.93

  Vires.
• * 1.94

  Winter∣flag.
• * 1.95

  Vires.
• * 1.96

  Polytricus
• * 1.97

  Esula.
• * 1.98

  Vires.
• * 1.99

  Vires.
• * 1.100

  Vires.
• * 1.101

  Vires.
• * 1.102

  Vires.
• * 1.103

  Vires.
• * 1.104

  Vires.
• * 1.105

  The Roots.
• * 1.106

  Vires.
• * 1.107

  Vires.
• * 1.108

  Vires.
• * 1.109

  Vires.
• * 1.110

  Honey & Wine.
• * 1.111

  Vires.
• * 1.112

  Vires.
• * 1.113

  Vires.
• * 1.114

  Vires.
• * 1.115

  Vires.
• * 1.116

  Vires.
• * 1.117

  Vires.
• * 1.118

  Vires.
• * 1.119

  Vires.
• * 1.120

  Vires.
• * 1.121

  Vires.
• * 1.122

  Vires.
• * 1.123

  Vires.
• * 1.124

  Vires.
• * 1.125

  Vires.
• * 1.126

  Vires.
• * 1.127

  Esula.
• * 1.128

  Vires.
• * 1.129

  Epithimus () Esula.
• * 1.130

  Vires.
• * 1.131

  Vires.
• * 1.132

  Vires.
• * 1.133

  Laudanum. Androm.
• * 1.134

  Vires.
• * 1.135

  Vires.
• * 1.136

  Vires.
• * 1.137

  Vires.
• * 1.138

  Vires.
• * 1.139

  Vires.
• * 1.140

  Macha∣zari and Citrini.
• * 1.141

  Vires.
• * 1.142

  I wonder what that doth there.
• * 1.143

  Vires.
• * 1.144

  Vires.
• * 1.145

  Vires.
• * 1.146

  Vires.
• * 1.147

  Vires.
• * 1.148

  Vires.
• * 1.149

  Seseleos.
• * 1.150

  () Ameos.
• * 1.151

  Vires.
• * 1.152

  Vires.
• * 1.153

  Vires.
• * 1.154

  Vires.
• * 1.155

  Vires.
• * 1.156

  Vires.
• * 1.157

  Vires.
• * 1.158

  Vires.
• * 1.159

  Sericum crudum.
• * 1.160

  ∵ It is better to grinde the Amber with the Powders, and so to mix it.
• * 1.161

  Vires.
• * 1.162

  Vires.
• * 1.163

  Vires.
• * 1.164

  Vires.
• * 1.165

  Vires.
• * 1.166

  Vires.
• * 1.167

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• * 1.168

  Vires.
• * 1.169

  Vires.
• * 1.170

  Vires.
• * 1.171

  Vires.
• * 1.172

  Vires.
• * 1.173

  Juncus odoratus.
• * 1.174

  ∵ Aglia.
• * 1.175

  () Chalcy∣tidis.
• * 1.176

  Vires.
• * 1.177

  Pali san∣cti.
• * 1.178

  Vires.
• * 1.179

  Vires.
• * 1.180

  Vires.
• * 1.181

  Vires.
• * 1.182

  Vires.
• * 1.183

  Vires.
• * 1.184

  Vires.
• * 1.185

  Vires.
• * 1.186

  Vires.
• * 1.187

  Vires.
• * 1.188

  Vires.
• * 1.189

  Vires.
• * 1.190

  Vires.
• * 1.191

  Vires.
• * 1.192

  Vires.
• * 1.193

  Vires.
• * 1.194

  Vires.