A medicinal dispensatory, containing the vvhole 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, chief physician to the monarch of France; and now Englished and revised, by Richard Tomlinson of London, apothecary.

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 * 1.1 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, * 1.2 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, * 1.3 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, * 1.4 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, * 1.5 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, * 1.6 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, * 1.7 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, * 1.8 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: * 1.9 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; * 1.10 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, * 1.11 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; * 1.12 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, * 1.13 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, * 1.14 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 ••••••r, gently purges the stomack, and upper 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, * 1.15 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, * 1.16 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, * 1.17 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, * 1.18 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, * 1.19 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, * 1.20 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; * 1.21 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, * 1.22 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- * 1.23 berries, honey despumed, of each lb j. * 1.24 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 their succe and sugar; whereunto, if you adde a little Rose-water, it will be more grateful, and efficacious in roborating, and staying fluxes.

The compound syrupe cures the eroding Ulcers of the mouth, * 1.25 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, * 1.26 cures hot Fevers, 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 the consistence of a fyrupe. Some (saith Mesue) adde Cloves; but they 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, * 1.27 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, * 1.28 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, arceates 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, * 1.29 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, * 1.30 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, * 1.31 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, * 1.32 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, * 1.33 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, * 1.34 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. * 1.35 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, * 1.36 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 * 1.37 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, * 1.38 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; * 1.39 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, * 1.40 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 ʒ ij. 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, * 1.41 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, * 1.42 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, * 1.43 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, * 1.44 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. * 1.45 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, * 1.46 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 * 1.47 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, * 1.48 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, * 1.49 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, * 1.50 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 Fennel, 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, * 1.51 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, * 1.52 and very much water; For we make Mede, saith Oribasius, 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; * 1.53 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; * 1.54 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, * 1.55 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 * 1.56 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, * 1.57 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; * 1.58 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, * 1.59 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

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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: * 1.60 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; * 1.61 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 delights 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, * 1.62 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: * 1.63 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, * 1.64 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, * 1.65 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, * 1.66 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, * 1.67 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, * 1.68 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: * 1.69 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, * 1.70 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, * 1.71 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, * 1.72 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, * 1.73 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 suave, 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 succe 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, * 1.74 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. * 1.75

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 well 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 Sea-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: * 1.76 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: repose them af∣terward in a 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, till 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∣fine: for both of them are hot 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, nourishes, augments seed, * 1.77 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 spissitude 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 them 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 thus they may be better pur∣ged from their fibres, and more perfectly confected in every part.

They stay the running of blood from any part, * 1.78 cohibit the de∣lapse of homours, and agglutinate wounds in the internals.

CHAP. 14. Radices Enulae conditae; or, The condited roots of Enula-campane.

℞ of the roots of Enula-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 Sugar, 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, * 1.79 recreate the heart, discuss flatulency, help concoction, resist poysons, and pestilent virulent 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 boyled 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 those 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, * 1.80 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 Gordianus, its Author would have it, injected thereinto, 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, * 1.81 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; * 1.82 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, * 1.83 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, * 1.84 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.

Notes

• * 1.1

  An Insusion∣pot. The Author appoints an equal quantity of sugar to the infusion.
• * 1.2

  Qualitates.
• * 1.3

  Vires.
• * 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

  Why liquorice must not be long boyled.
• * 1.13

  Qualitates.
• * 1.14

  Qualitates.
• * 1.15

  Vires.
• * 1.16

  Vires.
• * 1.17

  Vires.
• * 1.18

  Vires.
• * 1.19

  Vires.
• * 1.20

  Qualitates.
• * 1.21

  Vires.
• * 1.22

  Vires.
• * 1.23

  Before they be ripe.
• * 1.24

  ∵ Wine boyl∣ed to a good consistence.
• * 1.25

  Vires.
• * 1.26

  Vires.
• * 1.27

  Vires.
• * 1.28

  Vires.
• * 1.29

  Vires.
• * 1.30

  Vires.
• * 1.31

  Let the Saf∣fron be hung in a Nodule whilest the sy∣rupe is a boyl∣ing.
• * 1.32

  Vires.
• * 1.33

  Rhois Cu∣linariae.
• * 1.34

  Vires.
• * 1.35

  Muzorum. Acido-dul∣cium.
• * 1.36

  Vires.
• * 1.37

  Red Roses.
• * 1.38

  Vires.
• * 1.39

  Vires.
• * 1.40

  Vires.
• * 1.41

  Vires.
• * 1.42

  Vires.
• * 1.43

  Vires.
• * 1.44

  Vires.
• * 1.45

  Syr. de Ar∣temisia sim∣pliciter.
• * 1.46

  Vires.
• * 1.47

  White Ua∣gula Cala∣linae.
• * 1.48

  Vires.
• * 1.49

  Vires.
• * 1.50

  Vires.
• * 1.51

  Vires.
• * 1.52

  How to make Mede.
• * 1.53

  Oinomel.
• * 1.54

  Metegla.
• * 1.55

  Metheaglen
• * 1.56

  For 40 days.
• * 1.57

  Vires.
• * 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 Salviae.
• * 1.72

  Vires.
• * 1.73

  Vires.
• * 1.74

  Vires.
• * 1.75

  Vires.
• * 1.76

  Sic Radices Buglossi condiuntur.
• * 1.77

  Vires.
• * 1.78

  Vires.
• * 1.79

  Viret.
• * 1.80

  Vires.
• * 1.81

  Vires.
• * 1.82

  Vires.
• * 1.83

  Vires.
• * 1.84

  Vires.