Iatrica, seu, Praxis medendi, The practice of curing being a medicinal history of above three thousand famous observations in the cure of diseases, performed by the author hereof : together with several of the choicest observations of other famous men ... : wherein for the most part you will find 1. the constitution of the body of the sick, 2. the symptoms predominant, 3. the cause of the disease, what? 4. the exact method which was taken in the cure, 5. an exact account of the medicines exhibited, with the order of their exhibition, various doses and success thereupon ... / perform'd by William Salmon ...

The AUTHORS Observations.

I. A Convulsion in a middle Aged Man proceeding from the Cholick.

1. A Man about thirty eight years of Age, having had many Paroxysms of the Wind Cholick, at length they became so extream as to bring him into certain fits, and so pass off: I was sent for in one of those fits, and when I came to see the Sick, I presently found they were Convulsive; and that the Convulsion was vniversal over the whole Body.

2. The whole body was cold, as if it was al∣most dead, and drawn up on a heap, the calfs of the Legs were contracted into hard Knots of a great magnitude, the Hams were drawn up, the Belly was contracted into a heap, his Back was bent, Neck drawn aside, his Fingers Hands and Arms shrunk up, and his Mouth writhed in a very odd posture.

3. The condition the Sick lay in was very lamentable, and deplorable, and in all Appear∣ance nothing but Death could be expected; yet the man having had already several of the like fits, and being naturally of a strong habit and constitution of Body, and not much brought down thereby, I doubted not, but if we could but restore him out of the present fit, that there might be sufficient hopes of recovery: but the great danger lay in the Extremity of the fit.

4. To reduce him to himself we conveyed as well as we could into his Mouth this follow∣ing dose: Take spiritus Carminativus, half an ounce: Powers of Caraways thirty drops: mix them: it was forced down his Throat; after which his Bowels began suddenly to make a noise; and in about two minuts time he broke wind both upwards and downwards.

5. All the Convulsed members I caused to be very well bathed with the Powers of Am∣ber by a chafing-dish of Coals, and by the use of them in less than half an hour we were In∣strumental in restoring of this lamentable spe∣ctacle: his Head, Temples, Forehead, Nostrills, Cheeks, and Lips I caused to be bathed with the powers of Rosemary, so that in a very short time he came very well to himself again.

6. But by reason his Body was bound up, or very Costive, I caused this following Cly∣ster to be exhibited: Take Decoctum Com∣mune, a pint: Oyl Olive, or Oyl of Bay-ber∣ries, two drams: Chymical Oyl of Anniseeds, six drops, or forty drops of the Potestates or powers: Infusion of Crocus Metallorum, two ounces: Manna, an ounce and half: mix and dissolve, and exhibit it warm: This gave six or seven stools, and brought away a great quan∣tity, not only of hardned Excrements, but al∣so of Viscous, slimy, green, yellow, blew, and otherwise discoloured matter; so that the Sick confest himself to be extreamly eased.

7. Being thus well recovered my next care was to preserve him for the future from such like Accidents, and therefore I ordered the following Diet, to be taken as his ordinary Drink: Take spring water, eight quarts: Ju∣niper berries well bruised four ounces: Liquo∣rice rasped, Figs slit, Raisons of the sun stoned, Currants, of each two ounces: Caraways bruis∣ed, one ounce: Fennel seeds, half an ounce: boyl all together to the Consumption of about three quarts, then strain, let it settle well, de∣cant the cleare, and sweeten it with white Sugar: then bottle it up and let him drink it as his or∣dinary Drink.

8. But because I saw there was a preter∣natural matter lodged in the Stomach, which ought to be taken away, and which continually afflicted him, and oftentimes stirred up such like fits as the former; I evacuated his Sto∣mach with the following Dose: Take Carduus

water a pint: Infusion of Crocus metallorum, one ounce: Salt of Vitriol two scruples: mix them for a draught: This wrought effectually with him, so that he evacuated both upwards and downwards a very large quantity of filthy green, and otherwise discoloured matter: this dose was twice more repeated upon every fourth day.

9. And that we might be sure to take away the proximate cause wholly, I ordered him to take of my Family pills, with Aloes once a week, for six or seven weeks together, which he exactly performed, whereby his Body was perfectly cleansed and all that matter which formerly used to Gripe him, was now perfectly taken away, whereby the cause of the Con∣vulsion was radically removed.

10. However I was not wanting as to the Convulsion it self; and therefore I caused all the Convulsed parts, and other parts in which was any weakness or feebleness to be bathed Morning and Night with the powers of Amber: these things had indeed such an Effect upon him, as that he was never after troubled with any more Convulsive fits; though yet the wind would sometimes a little disturb him, but no∣thing like as in former times.

11. However, to prevent this, I caused him constantly Morning, Noon, and Night, to take of this following Electuary: Take Electuarium ad Tabidos, four ounces: pouder of Bay-berries, half an ounce: powers of Carraways of Rose∣mary, and of Sassafras, of each three drams: mix them: dose as much as a hazle nut, drink∣ing a little glass of warm diet before menti∣oned, or of mul'd Sack, after the same.

12. His Back-bone from the Vertebrae of the Neck to the Os Coccygis, as also the whole re∣gion of of the Abdomen were more especially and carefully bathed with the aforementioned powers of Amber twice a day, for about four∣teen days; he by using these meanes was per∣fectly restored to health, so as that his fits ne∣ver returned any more.

13. By this very method I cured two other Men, and one Gentlewoman, which were all afflicted in like manner, with Convulsions pro∣ceeding from the Wind Cholick, they were all so admirably cured and restored that none of them (except the Woman) had a second fit, af∣ter we had began to attempt the Cure: and she had but one fit after, which is a thing worthy the remarking: Also one I cured simply by taking some few doses of my Family Pills: and bathing all the places affected with only the powers of Amber, used as aforesaid morn∣ing and night.

II. Convulsions caused in a little Boy from Worms.

1. A Child of about seven years of Age of∣ten fell into Convulsion fits; and no cause could be discerned whence they should proceed: se∣veral Physicians and Doctors were sent for, yet so abstruse was the reason of those fits, that they could discover nothing from whence they could proceed: however they attempted the Cure, and many things were given, but all in Vain; although the meanes was continued for some months together.

2. At length I was desired to give the Child a visit, (which was in the absence of the Pa∣roxysm) but to all appearance he ailed nothing, except when I came near him, I found his Breath to stink most egregiously: I enquired of his Parents whether that symptom had been from his Birth, or only came lately by Acci∣dent: and they told me that they had not ob∣served it in their Child for above five or six months, which made them also concern'd whence that should arise.

3. I further enquired of them, if the Child never complain'd of his Belly-aking; they told me, That was ordinary with him every Morn∣ing, and the only complaint which he had, which they thought proceeded from wind in his Stomach, for that after eating he was wont to be very well again, except at such times as his Convulsion fits seiz'd, which was always at uncertain hours.

4. Upon this I conceived that all the for∣mer Doctors and Physicians had hitherto per∣fectly mistaken the Cause: I then told his Pa∣rents, that I much feared that the Child was troubled with Worms, and therefore enquired again whether he had ever voided any or not:

they answered me, No, never any such thing being observed to come from him.

5. However I was strongly perswaded that Worms were the chief causes of that Convul∣sive disposition, and this I was the more perswad∣ed to, because by his Friends relation, he would not only startle much in his sleep, but those Convulsive fits would also seiz him when he was fast asleep, which to me was no small ar∣gument of Worms.

6. I provided therefore against them: and in the first place, I ordered the Parents to give the Child of my Family pills with Aloes, for that I knew by manifold experience that no better Medicament could be given in the World to remove that cause: they were given three little Pills at a time, and the second dose brought away two large worms above seven inches long by Vomit: and by Stool he had six or eight such other Worms; besides a great number of little small worms of about an inch long.

7. I ordered the use of these Pills to be con∣tinued so long till the Child ceased to evacuate any Worms at all, which was not till he had taken the ninth dose; after that he avoided no more: the number of great Worms which he avoided was about seventeen, the number of the lesser (they were so many) could never be told: he took the Pills however thirteen or four∣teen times, for security sake, but after the ninth dose no more worms came away; the doses of the pills were repeated after every third or fourth day: they wrought very well, and without the least griping of the Bowels of of the Child.

8. Outwardly, I also caused the Stomach and Belly, and all the Convulsed parts to be bathed morning and evening very well with the Powers of Amber, which was don for six or eight days together: and by the use of this means the Child was perfectly freed from all his Convulsion fits, and from thence forth rest∣ed very quietly in his bed, without any di∣sturbance in his sleep as formerly.

9. However for comforting and restoring the tone of the Inwards parts, and to prevent the breeding of more Worms for the future, I ordered the following thing: Take Electuari∣um ad Tabidos, two ounces: Bay-berries in sub∣til pouder, two drams: red Diaphoretick Mer∣cury, salt of Mans skull, Ox horns in subtil pouder, Bezoar stone, of each half a dram: powers of Cloves a sufficient quantity: mix all together and make an Electuary: of this he took a scruple every night going to Bed.

10. Several of the like examples of Convul∣sions proceeding from Worms, have fallen un∣der my Cure, all which I either cured simply with some few doses of my Family Pills above named, or with the use of them and the Pow∣ers of Amber aforesaid. And now I am speak∣ing of their effects in killing of Worms; I care not much if I relate part of a Letter sent to me by one John Mouse a Country Physician now living at Wellingbrough in Northampton-shire, dated the 11. of January, Anno 1679/80. his words are these. All the Excellent Vertues of the Family Pills I am not able to declare: this I can speak upon my own Experience, that from a sick Patient of mine troubled with Worms, they brought away a joynted Worm, of about an hundred foot long.

III. Convulsions in a Woman troubled with Hysterick fits: as also in a Maiden whose Cour∣ses were stopt.

1. A young Woman of about twenty six years of Age, of a Melancholy habit of body, had been for more than two years troubled with Hysterick fits: she continuing without cure, the fits came to that Extremity that after a Convulsive manner they drew up all her Body into an heap, with an exceeding great Groaning, and almost intolerable pain, chiefly in the Bow∣ells and Mesentery.

2. I was at last call'd to her, when she was in the extremity of one of her fits, at which time her ordure and urine came from her in∣sensibly, and she was in an extream cold sweat, striving within herself as if the pains of Death had been upon her: how long the fit had been upon her, I cannot exactly tell; but wh••lst I was considering what to do, she came to her∣self again.

3. However for the preventing of the l••ke for the future, it was necessary that some spee∣dy

course should be taken; and therefore in the first place, I caused all the convulsed parts parts to be extreamly well bathed with the pow¦ers of Amber above mentioned, and this to be done Morning and Night, for at least twelve or fourteen days together: this ordered,

4. I caused this following Clyster forthwith to be administred: Take Decoctum Amarum, one pint: infusion of Crocus Metallorum, Oyl of Camomil, choice Honey, of each two ounces: Powers of Amber, two drams: mix all for a Clyster, to be given warm: It cleansed the Abdomen well, and brought away a great quantity of greenish slimy matter, by which she found her self much eased.

5. This done, I ordered her to take a dose of five or six of my Family Pills with Aloes, every fourth or fifth morning, for 7 or 8 weeks together: I ordered her to take them for so long time, for that I knew the Disease to be Chronick and stubborn, and that there was a great degeneration of the Nervous juyce by the superabundancy of Vitious humors; of which unless the body was perfectly cleansed no hope of Cure could be expected to succeed, which I knew these Pills (being taken for some time) would most admirably accomplish; nor in this thing (in this my Patient) was I mistaken; for they wrought very kindly with her, without any griping in the least, and brought away a vast quantity of filthy and putrefied humours, even to my wonder and amazement, by the use of which she not only grew more chearful and lightsom, but she also found her self ap∣parently the better, and her fits when they came upon her, was not with the quarter part of the Vehemency with which they afflicted her formerly.

6. Then for the abating of the Hysterick Distemper, I ordered the following composi∣tion: Take powers of Amber, one ounce: pow∣ers of Guajacum, of Elks hoofs, of each two drams; Powers of Mans skull, one dram mix them: of this she took between twenty and thir∣ty drops at a time, in a Glass of Rhenish wine and sugar, morning and night, so that after she had begun to take them, she had never more than three fits, and has remained per∣fectly free from them for more then ten years space.

7. But for fourteen days together, half an hour before Dinner, she took this: Take salt of Mans skull, Volatile salt of Harts-horn, of each eight grains: Nutmegs, Cloves in pouder, of each ten grains: mix them: and by the only taking of these things she was restored to her pristin Health.

8. Now of how great Vertues these Fami∣ly Pills are in restoring such as have Hysterick fits complicated with other Diseases, I will re∣late part of a Letter from one Richard Hilton of Middleton in Somerset-shire, dated the first of January Anno 1679/80. his words are these. Sir, I cannot but give you an account what a great cure your Family Pills have wrought upon my wife, who has been long afflicted with Hy∣sterick fits, as also with a Consumption and the Scurvey, she has tryed almost all things in vain, and was then (when she took your Pills) given over by all Our Physicians as perfectly uncura∣ble, upon her first taking of them she found more good than she ever did by any thing given her before: and by her continuing to take them ac∣cording to your directions, she is now become per∣fectly well.

9. A Maiden Gentlewoman also troubled with Convulsion fits from an Hysterick cause, I cured by the same method as the former, and in about two months time restored her to per∣fect health; but she having an obstruction of her Terms, I did over and above prescribe the following Medicaments: Take Zedoary, round Bithwort root, Bay-berries, of each one ounce: Dittany of Crete, Saffron, Borax, of each six drams: Nigella seeds, Calamint, Savin dryed, of each four drams: red Myrrh, Jallap, of each two drams: make all into a fine pouder and mix them: of this pouder she took half a dram an hour before Dinner, and as much a little be∣fore Supper, in any convenient liquor for seven or eight days before the time of their due flowing.

IV. Convulsion fits in a Man fifty years of Age, arising from the stone in the Reins.

1. This Man having been for about eighteen

years past troubled extreamly with the stone in the Reins, ran up and down from one Phy∣sician to another to seek for remedy, but all in vain: at length his Disease became so Vehe∣ment upon him, that nature was no longer able to sustain the burthen, without seeming to sink under it; so that upon any occasionall Paro∣xysm of the stone he fell into dreadful Convul∣sion fits, which could not be beheld without horror in the by-standers.

2. Upon this a certain friend of the Sick re∣quested that I should be sent for: but the man being exceeding Poor, and so not able to give a Physician his fee, some of his Relations de∣clin'd it, untill a Gentlewoman (a meer stran∣ger to the Sick, and to me yet unknown) prof∣fered upon her own Generosity to give the re∣ward: upon this I was sent for, and viewing the Sick, saw his condition very strange and deplorable: the Lady requested my opinion, gave me three peices of Gold or Guines, and bad me do the best for the Poor Creature I could, and if things succeeded well she would further reward me.

3. Hereupon I attempted to do some thing, but found that (whatsoever was necessary to be don, or whatsoever the rules of Art prescribed,) I must be forc't to give my Patient an Opiate; or else it would be impossible for him to con∣tinue long, but that the strength of his Convul∣sions would infallably carry him off, in spight of whatsoever we should be able to do.

4. For this cause sake I gave him a Lau∣danum extreamly well prepared, and loaded with Volatile Salts, and compleated with Cam∣phir and Oyl of Wormwood (which Medica∣ment you may have exactly made and prepa∣red either by my self, Or by John Hollier a Chy∣mist living in George Yard neer brooken wharf in Thames-street London.) of this Laudanum I gave him at first two grains, which gave him some ease, and which dose he continued about a week, at the end of which I encreased the dose half a grain more: at fourteen days end I gave him three grains.

5. After this manner I continued the use of this Medicament for several weeks, still aug∣menting of it half a grain every week, where∣by the miserable poor Man had not only ease for the present, but we perfectly mastered the Convulsions in about seven weeks time, and freed him from the danger of Death by those Paroxysms: upon this the Sick would never goe to Bed, without taking a Pill of his Opiate, for if he did, within a day or two he was sure to have a fit of the stone: and now his resolu∣tions were set, that he would take them all the Days of his life, rather than loose the ease and happiness which that Medicine procured him.

6. He continued the use of it so long till by augmenting of it half a grain in a week, he took half a dram for a dose at night going to Bed; at what time he then began to take it diminish∣ing the dose in like manner half a grain in a week, till he had brought it back again to se∣ven grains, at which quantity he stuck for a long time: now it is observable, that during all the time of his taking of this Ladanum he voided every night a large quantity of red Gra∣vel, and in his own opinion much more Urine than he drank drink, which was the first mo∣tive, which induced him to lessen his dose.

7. However now and than by pretermitting the use of this Laudanum, we found that al∣though by the use thereof he was freed from his dreadful Convulsion fits, and from the ex∣tream Anguish and Pains of the stone, as also from his stoppage of Urine, and painful mak∣ing water, yet the true and Essentiall cause of those Pains remained, wherefore my business was next to consult what was most rational either to dissolve any Coagulum in the Reins or Bladder, and to prevent the like concretion for the future.

8. I advised him to many things by which he confest he found much good, as first the Decoction or juyce of Camomil, which he used successfully for a pretty while: secondly, being weary of taking that, I advised him to take the Infusion or Juyce of large Onions mixt with a sufficient quantity of White or Rhenish wine, and Oyl of sweet Almonds, by the use of which he confest he found a vast and singular advan∣tage: moreover, I ordered him to make Onions, Leeks, Garlick, or Shelots, the only sawce for,

all the food he eat. Thirdly, I advised him to take the Distilled water of Hydropiper or bit∣ing Arsmart, by the use of which he also confest he had much relief. Fourthly, I cau∣sed him (after the use of all those things) to take Egg-shels calcined ten or twelve days in a potters Furnace; about a scruple or half a dram at a time every Morning fasting, in any convenient Vehicle, and to drink after the same a little Gill of spirit of Juniper. Fifthly, I order∣ed (after the taking of all the former things) Winter Cherries in fine pouder, from a scruple to half a dram to be infused 48 hours in White or Rhenish wine, half a pint; and then the pou∣der and Wine to be drunk off together in the Morning fasting, which he did for some weeks. Sixthly, The taking of choice Oyl of salt (as many drops as he could well bear) in a glass of Sack or other wine, which he took for ma∣ny months: all these things were used in the Order recited, together with Powers of Juni∣per-berries, somtimes in Persicary water, som∣times in white or Rhenish wine, and somtimes in Sack, from the use of which the Sick had not only manifest ease, with a perpetual flux of Gravel, but was also in his own opinion much better in respect of the stone it self: yet this he found, if he abstained long from some of the things above named, his Lithontriptick paines would return again, and that with Ve∣hemency.

9. I now began to consult upon his last re∣medy, seeing that all the former things had not the desired Effects which I could have wisht for; at length I concluded upon this Compo∣situm: Take choise Venice Turpentine, eight ounces: Liquid storax, two ounces: Camphir, one ounce: (dissolved in a sufficient quantity of Oyl of Juniper-beries) Cochenele in fine pou∣der, half an ounce: dissolve the storax in the Turpentine over a gentle heat; then take it off the fire, and being almost cold mix there∣with the dissolved Camphir and cochenele in pouder: stir them well together till they are perfectly mixt and put it into a Gally pot for use. dose Morning and Evening as much as a hazel nut in a Wafer, or roll'd up in Sugar.

10. This very quantity cured the poor Man, so that after the taking of it, ceasing from all other Medicines, no symptom of his Disease ever returned any more: but he by degrees augmented his dose till he took of it Morn∣ing and Evening as much as a very large Nutmeg or more: the Man having been well some months, five peices of Gold was sent me sealed up in peice of paper, by a foot-boy, the person unknown to me to this day, but I much suspect it to be from the Charitable and Religi∣ously disposed Lady above mentioned, I might here philosophize upon the reason of this Cure, and the simples of the last Compositum, but for fear of being too tedious (seeing the matter is obvious) I shall now forbear.

11. A Brick-layer who had been for about fifteen years troubled with the Stone, and gone from Physician to Physitian without hope of remedy, I perfectly cured (after three or four times purging with my Family Pills) with on∣ly the last prescription: and he has remained now well several months.

12. Another man who had also been exceed∣ingly afflicted for many years with the stone, I perfectly cured with this following Medica∣ment: Take Balsam of Peru, eight ounces: Li∣quid storax, two ounces: Camphir (disolved as aforesaid) one ounce: Chochenel in fine pouder, half an ounce: mix them into a body accord∣ing to Art: dose the quantity afore-mention∣ed. These are great Medicines (though in themselves but mean things) and therefore not to be disregarded or despised.

V. Convulsion fits in a young Lady arising from Pains of the stone, or Gravel in the Reins and Bladder.

1. This young Gentlewoman had been long tormented with the stone or Gravel in the Reins or Bladder, and for more than twenty weeks had lain in a very miserable condition, so that at last her Disease encreasing upon her and coming to Extremities, she fell into Convul∣sion fits, which followed her so excessively, that she would have somtimes fourteen or sixteen fits in the space of twenty four hours time; these in a few days rendred her condition both dangerous of desperate.

2. Her Pulses which used to be equal, strong, and rather quick than slow, became very irre∣gular, faint or weak, and so low, as scarcely to be felt: her Stomach was wholly taken a∣way; a vehement Vomiting had seiz'd her, to∣gether with faintness or weakness, a trembling of the whole body, and extream cold sweats: Her ordour and Urine, were also black as a Coal.

3. In this miserable condition her Friends scarcely knew what to do, many Physicians were sent for, and that of the greatest note, whose judgments were requested, but as they came severally, so their judgments were divers, to the great dissatisfaction not only of the sick Patient, but of her relations; One said, It was an high Scurvy, and that it would be long and of difficult Cure: another, that it was Hypo∣chondriack melancholy: another, that it was an Hysterick disease: another, that she had an Ulcer in her spleen: another, that her Liver was almost wasted, and that she had not so much of it left as two of his little Fingers came to, and therefore must irrecoverably die: &c. insomuch that the proverb Quot homines tot capita, quot mentes tot Sententiae, was never more exactly verified than in these kind of men; every one of them of a different judgment, and all of them vastly different from the Truth.

4. Among the number of the rest I was at last thought of, and at the request of the sick Patient sent for: when I came, I began to ex∣amine the symptoms, and found present a great stoppage of Urine, with a vehement pain and scalding thereof, and what water came from her, came by drops, by reason of which, and the extreamity of the Dolor, the sick fell into Con∣vulsion fits, which lasted upon her for a quar∣ter of an hour or more; which fit going off, the sick would be pleasant and chearful again, but of a sudden, upon the exciting of those pains, the fit would return again, which were accom∣panied with all the symptoms first above re∣lated: after a little consideration, I concluded them to be Convulsion fits, arising from Distem∣pers of the reins or bladder, which the spasms or contraction of the parts gave demonstration of.

5. This as it agreed most with reason and truth, so it was a very satisfactory judgment to those about the sick, and therefore the Pa∣tient was forthwith committed to my charge; and I was requested to use the uttermost of skill to restore her: her condition was truly desperate, which made me loath to engage, lest dying under my hands, I should reap discredit thereby: this they told me should be no discouragement to me; they requested me to do my best, they were willing to trust her to God, and me: and if that she dyed, yet I should be blameless, for as much as it was the judgments of all other men; and if she did well, it would make much to my honour, cre∣dit and reputation.

6. Upon these Intreaties I undertook to do what good I could to the sick: I perceived that slime and gravel were the principal things causing the obstruction, or at most only some little stones, about the bigness of gray pease, some of which by the use the following Medi∣cines came afterwards from her. But my greatest care was to give the sick immediate ease, for which I was forced to give her of my Guttae Vitae or Cordial Drops (the composition and preparation of which you have in our Do∣ron Medicum, lib. 1. cap. 22. sect. 170. dose) twenty five drops in a little Sack: this gave her some relief: and by the using thereof for three or four days, we took off (in a great measure,) the violence of the Convulsion.

7. But finding that great sickness at heart, oppression at Stomach, and continual disposi∣tion to Vomit, remain upon her, I was resol∣ved to try a rougher Medicament, far from the Indications present, it was apparently mani∣fested that the Stomach was exceeding foul, and much afflicted by the Viscous matter there∣in contained, and therefore I exhibited this: Take Vinum Benedictum, half an ounce: sal Vitriol, half a dram: mix them: and give them in a glass of Wine.

8. By the use of this Medicament the sick had, five or six gentle Vomits, and as many stools: it was repeated four times in all: once every other day, whereby a vast quantity of Viscous flegm was brought off from the Sto∣mach,

twelve pounds by weight, at which I could not but wonder: hence appeared in part the rea∣son of her Vomiting, and, in part, of her Con∣vulsion fits, for the whole concavity of the Sto∣mach was as it were glazed with this cold flegm, and viscous matter now brought away, and in∣deed after the first Vomit, the young Lady had no more of her Convulsion fits: and al∣though thereby her Pains of the stone were not taken away, yet they were very much dimi∣nished, to my very great satisfaction.

9. The hopes of life now were not small, the Pulses were restored, the black colours of her Urine and Ordure were changed, her vo∣miting ceased, and a good Stomach was now begat in her, who for several weeks together had eaten nothing at all to speak of: I began now to think of taking away the root of the first cause, but withall to comfort and restore the Tone of the Stomach, which was depraved by reason of that large quantity of cold Viscous flegm lodged in it; and in some little mea∣sure hurt by the exhibition of so many Vo∣mits.

10. For the first intention I gave her this: Take Powers of Juniper-berries, four ounces: Ens Veneris, half an ounce: mix and dissolve as much as you can, by shaking them together: dose half a spoonful in a little glass of Sack twice a day, viz. Morning and Evening: in the intermediate parts of the day, for restauration of the Stomach, I ordered her the powers of Cloves to be given also, three four or five times a day or oftner, a quarter of a spoonful at a time in a glass of Sack, from the use of which things she confest she found much comfort, also for change of Medicaments, I further prescribed this: Take spirit of Angelica the greater Composition, four ounces: Oyl of Cinnamon, half a dram: mix them by shaking: of this she took half a spoon∣ful at a time in a glass of Sack, now and then, somtimes of this, somtimes of the powers of Cloves, by the use of which, her Stomack was not only comforted and restored, but her Heart was corroborated, and her spirits mightily re∣vived, so that now she no longer doubted of her recovery.

11. By the Continual use of the powers of Juniper-berries and Ens Veneris, a large quan¦tity of red Gravel came from her, with much slime and viscous filth: in a months time, there was saved of pure red Gravel above half a pint: for a while no longer than she took the powers of Juniper-berries, could she have any ease; but by the constant use of the same in about six weeks time, the Lady was in hopes to be restored to her desired health: I must confess beyond all my inward presages and expectations, consi∣dering into what a low state of body she was brought, who was at my undertaking of her, little more than skin and bone, so much had her distemper emaciated and weakned her.

12. Outwardly, I caused her Temples, No∣strills, Pulses of her Wrists, and Stomach to be bathed with the following composition; as also the whole region of the Abdomen from the sternon to the share: Take powers of Oranges and Limons, of each an ounce: powers of Rose∣mary and sassafras, of each half an ounce: pow∣ers of Caraways, and Amber, of each two drams: mix them together: with this mixture the parts above named were bathed twice a day, viz. morning and evening, for about twenty days together. By the use of all these things, as above prescribed, the young Lady was per∣fectly restored to her pristin Health in about eight weeks time, to the joy and satisfaction both of her self, and her afflicted Relations.

VI. Convulsion fits in another young Gen∣tlewoman, arising from Pains of the stone or Gra∣vel, &c.

1. This person after many weeks lingring sickness fell into my hand, she was much wast∣ed, and reduced into a very low condition, so that life was dispaired of: Her fits were plainly Convulsive accompanied with a continual Vo∣miting, loss of appetite, loathing, sickness at Sto∣mach, paleness of countenance, and trembling over her whole body: her pulses were feeble, her urine and dejection black like soot, and whatsoever she eat for many days met with such a stoppage in her Stomach, that it past not through her; moreover the stoppage of urine, and extream pain in making of water was almost perpetual.

2. It was suspected to be the stone, upon which she was searched first by a Scotch man, secondly by an eminent Chyrurgian of this town; but no stone of any bigness could be found or perceived, except some small ones a∣bout the bigness of large Pease, or the like: however, the Chyrurgian and other eminent Physicians who were then sent for, concluded it to be a Cancer of the Womb.

3. I being present began to admire, at that judgment, for as much as the Lady had never any distemper of the Womb, and being an un∣married Gentlewoman, as she had never any eminent stoppage of her Courses, so was she not troubled with any other distemper of the Womb, to occas••on such a suspicion: moreover among all the symptoms that were present, not any one symptom of a Cancer appeared: there was neither inflamation, tumor, nor obstruction of the Womb, nor any wound, Ulcer, hardness or Pain of the Womb; all the pains which she su∣stained arose purely from the obstruction of the urine, by slime, gravel, sand, and small stones, &c. and where as in Cancers there is always a perpetual pain in them, the contrary was evi∣dent in this Lady, for she has been somtimes not only hours and days in absolute ease, but weeks also, which very thing alone declared the ab∣sence of a Cancer.

4. Notwithstanding all these arguments, and many more, which I then used, so magisterial were the Gentlemen in their opinion, that there was no removing them from it; from whence it was concluded the sick was uncurable, and therefore must be content to submit to her fate: which heavy and disconsolate judgment did in my opinion more hurt to the Patient than her Disease, for such a flood of tears, and so much grief seiz'd upon her for five or six days, that we thought by that alone she would be carried off; no arguments nor perswasion which I could use to the contrary could prevail with her, to satisfy her.

5. At length she submitted to my Argu∣ments, and committed her self to my Care: and by reason of that great oppression at Stomach, I gave her a gentle Vomit, to wit, sal Vitrioli, a dram: dissolved in a little Chicken broth: it gave her about six Vomits, and some slight motions downwards: the next day it was repeated again, and it gave her about the like number of Vo∣mits, bringing up a very great quantity of thick, tough, viscous flegm, which cooled and chil'd the Ventricle, hindred digestion, caused Vo∣mitings, and obstructed all the adjacent pas∣sages.

6. This Vomit was repeated five or six times, so long till she ceased vomiting up such a bird-lime-like flegm; and truly in my opinion the quantity of that kind of Flegm, which was brought out of her Ventricle much exceeded what we have mentioned in the former observation; so that I cannot but wonder in my own brest, how the Ventricle of any Creature could be loaded with such a quantity of praeternatural matter and live: however this was observable that upon the second Vomit, all the Convulsion fits ceased, although the fits before returned somtimes more than ten or twelve times in the space of twenty four hours: this gave encouragment to me to prosecute the cure: and now this heavy matter being removed from the Stomach, she began to desire food, to eat it, to digest it, and to gather strength thereupon.

7. However to comfort and strengthen the Ventricle, thus debilitated with that abundance of cold matter, I ordered her now and than to take powers of Cloves in Sack: somtimes this following mixture: Take spirit of Angelica, the greater composition, four ounces: Oyl of Cinna∣mon, half a dram: mix them: dose half a spoonful at a time in choice Canary: also for change of liquors, and for a farther gratificati∣on of the Stomach, I ordered the sick to drink her fill of Wormwood wine, which she also long∣ed for.

8. Now I began to think of taking away the pain in making water, and the obstruction of the Urine; (both which were mightily abated by the preceeding Vomits) for which purpose, I first gave her this: Take pure spirit of Turpen∣tine, one dram: juyce of Limons, two spoon∣fuls: mix them for two doses: which she took: this done, I gave her the infusion of large Onions in Rhenish wine, which was drunk for some days: after that the infusion of winter Cheries, in Rhe∣nish

Wine, which she drank also for five or six days, or more.

9. But the things which compleated and per∣fected the Cure, was this composition following: Take powers of Juniper-berries, four ounces: Ens Veneris, half an ounce: water of Hydro∣piper enough to dissolve the salt: mix them well together by shaking: of this she constantly took a quarter of a spoonful in a glass of Wine, morn∣ing, noon, and night, and somtimes oftner, for about fourteen days together, in which time she confessed her self to be perfectly restored to her former health. But one thing is to be noted, that through the whole course of this Cure, in any kind of extremity, especially if it was Ve∣hement, we had recourse to Opiates, among which my Guttae Vitae were chief, and which she took from twenty five drops to forty, as the vehemency or necessity required: and several nights she took them, about two or three hours after the taking of the Compositum of powers of Juniper-berries, purely out of fear, and for rest sake.

10. While she took this last Juniperine Medi∣cament, she was observed constantly to avoid a great quantity of slime, viscous filth, and sand or gravel: the gravel was in quantity near a pint, with which she voided some little stones, about the bigness of small pease, which in a lit∣tle time after crumbled into sand also: How∣ever after her amendment, she continued the use of the same Medicine for five or six weeks longer, by the use of which she became so ab∣solutly freed from her Disease of the stone that to this day (and it is now about three years since) she has not had the least symptom of its return.

VII. Convulsion fits in the same Lady arising from an Hypochondriack Melancholy, and ex∣tream Rigor.

1. The same Lady (last discoursed of) about three years after the former illness, was seized upon by degrees with Hypochondriack melan∣cholly, this getting the upper hand of her, brought also with it a very great Rigor; which by continuation, introduced Convulsion fits: The coldness was not only extream, but also con∣tinued long, somtimes for six, eight or ten, yea somtimes twelve hours: in so much that the sick Gentlewoman fell into them with such a dread, as to believe an Impossibility of her ever com∣ing out of them again.

2. She being in the Country; her Friends sent to me a relation of her condition; upon which I ordered her to take the Powers of Cloves, in Canary: and by reason she com∣plained of an exceeding pain and weakness at Stomach, with loss of Appetite; I further pre∣scribed a Magistery of sulphur, with this fol∣lowing pouder: Take Terra sigillata, one ounce: Crabs claws, red Coral, Oriental pearls, all levigated, of each half a dram: Elks hoofs, Mans skull philosophically calci••ed, of each half an ounce: mix them, dose half a dram: morn∣ing and night. These things did her good as to her Stomach, and took away the pain and Vo∣miting, but the Rigor coming by fits re∣mained.

3. For her Convulsions, and also to take a way the Rigor; I order'd the Potestates Convul∣sivae to be taken 30 or 40 drops at a time in Sack three or four times a day, or oftner. The said Potestates are thus made: Take the powers of Rosemary, of Lavender, of each one dram: powers of Sage, and of Pennyroyall, of each two drams: spirit of Mans skull, of Elks hoofs, of each three drams: Powers of Amber, half an ounce: mix them.

4. Externally, I ordered her Head and Stomach, as also the spina dorsi, to be bathed with the Potestates Nervosae twice a day, viz. morning and night. The said Potestates are thus made: Take Powers of Angelica, and of sage, of each two drams: powers of savin and of Juniper-berries, of each three drams: pow∣ers of Limons and Oranges, spirit of saffron, of each half an ounce: mix them: and bath the places aforespecified therewith.

5. For a farther Corroboration of her Sto∣mach, I ordered the Elixir proprietatis, to be taken some drops at a time, now and than for change of Medicines sake: all these things had the good effect upon her stomach; but as to the Rigor, and Convulsive affection they did appa∣rently got ground upon her, in so much that a

Coach was ordered for me, and I was forth∣with hasted into the Country.

6. When I came there I beheld the deplora∣ble object, in all outward appearance without hope of recovery: when the Rigor fell upon her, it continued so long, that she always dispaired of coming out of it any more: neither the warm∣ing stone, bottles of hot water applied to her Sides and Feet, nor hot cloths laid continually upon her Head, Stomach, Bowels, Thighs and Legs, could procure any heat in her, but of∣tentimes the Cold would last for ten or twelve hours; and if at any time it lasted but five six or seven hours, it would then return twice in twenty four hours space: and in the time of the Rigor it was that these Convulsive fits (so numerous) invaded her.

7. Finding all that I had don ineffectual, I was at first at a stand what to do: but consi∣dering that it was an universal cold disafecti∣on of the Nerves which so extreamly afflicted her, and that it was caused from a stupendious Hipochondriack Melancholy joyned with taking some external Cold; I plainly saw, that though inward things might be good, yet that with them we should not soon enough reach the con∣joyned cause, so as to dissolve it, before possi∣bly it might overturn or destroy the Patient. For this cause sake I forbid her the taking of any cold thing inwardly; and in all her drink to drink Powers of Cloves, or some drops of the Potestates Nervosae or Convulsivae; and withall ordered her to take either alone or in Sack, three four or six times a day spirit of Saffron, which last thing she found to do her most good in respect to her Hipochondriack af∣fection.

8. But seeing we wanted the thing which was most essential in order to this Cure, by reason of the extremity of the Patient, the next morn∣ing early, I hastned home, and sent down about threescore and ten ounces of the Powers of Amber, ordering the Head, or Temples and Forehead with the Nostrills, as also the Sto∣mach, sides, hypochonders, spina dorsi, Thighs, Legs, Feets, and Arms, to be twice a day well bathed with the same, till such time as they either found help, or that the whole quantity was used. It is a neat Medicine: for it neither greases as Oyl, nor continues wet, as water, but momentarily drinks into the flesh, so that it could not be nauseous to the most queasy Stomach: By the time that the whole quan∣tity was spent, the Patient (thanks be to God for so great a mercy) became perfectly well, to the great satisfaction of her afflicted Rela∣tions.

9. It is wonderful how suddenly and how admirably the External use of the powers of Amber, did not only dissolve that extream Ri∣gor, but also perfectly remove the Convulsive fits, performing outwardly what no actual ex∣ternal heat could do; for hereby momentarily the whole nervous systeme was throwly heated, and the cause of the Convulsion dissolved, which by a Cart load of Internal medicaments could never have been so exquisitely, and so sudden∣ly performed; moreover the Nerves them∣selves were mightily corroborated and streng∣then'd.

10. But during all the time that this was a doing outwardly, inward Medicines were not wanting to be used; for I sent down also with the said powers of Amber, the spirit of Saffron (which she much desired, and confest she found much good in) the powers of Cloves, and the Potestates Convulsivae and Nervosae, which I ordered her to take, either as her Stomach liked, or alternatim, in Sack, as aforemen∣tioned: these things she failed not to per∣form; and in one months time became perfect∣ly well, beyond mine, or her Friends expecta∣tions.

11. But whereas she was troubled with an extream watching; so that for some times she could not sleep for two or three days and nights together, I ordered her now and then to take (in the evening) twenty five, thirty, or forty drops of my Guttae Vitae in Sack, and so repose up∣on it; which she did several times, and in a short time removed that troublesom symptom: more∣over after that she became well, I ordered her to continue for some time the use of the former internal nervous Medicaments, and matutine re∣ception of the Elixir proprietatis.

VIII. Convulsion fits in a Child, proceed∣ing from Worms.

1. The exquisitness of the cure, and the spee∣dy performance thereof, makes me to insert this example. A little Boy of four or five years old was of a sudden seiz'd with Convulsion fits, and that without any praevious cause that his Relations, or by-standers could apprehend: these fits had afflicted the Child for about two months, coming somtimes once in two days, and somtimes once a day, and somtimes twice a day.

2. A stranger accidentally seeing the Child, advised its Parents to give it of my Family Pills, two at a time every Morning fasting, or every other morning, according as they found them to work, and to continue the use thereof for a week or longer: they did so; the Pills purged the Child without any Pain, and in about ten or twelve days time brought away about four∣teen long worms; a span or more in length, after which the Convulsions ceased of their own accord, and the Child presently mended, and grew exceeding well upon it.

3. This thing was don some years since: but of late, Mr Hollier, told me he gave them to a young Girl, who had not been well, and the cause of whose Disease seemed to be very ab∣struse: one or two doses, at most, brought a way from her several hundreds of Worms, af∣ter which she persently mended, and grew very well.

IX. Convulsion fits attended with a Lethar∣gy, which were Mortal.

1. A young Maiden about seventeen years of Age, was seized with Convulsion fits (as it was thought by taking cold in the Snow) being put to Bed; some of the Neighbour-hood ad∣vised her Parents to make her drunk with Bran∣dy, in hopes of a Cure: it was don, and the Maid drunk about three quarters of a pint, or better of that liquor, whereupon being over∣come with it, she became very sick, and after∣wards went to sleep: the next day, the Creature awaked not; about noon, they disturbed her; but she desired still to sleep.

2 Hereupon I was sent for, because they feared their Child would dye: when I came to her, another Convulsive fit seized her again; which after a while went off; but the sick re∣mained sleepy: after this manner she continu∣ed for a week; or more.

3. Considering her condition, I presum'd it to be a Lethargy which accompanied the Con∣vulsion; they desired my help; but truly, I plain∣ly told them, I knew not well what to do: how∣ever outwardly I advised to bath all the Ex∣ternal parts, Head, Temples, Vertebrae of the Neck and Back-bone, as also the parts afflicted with the Convulsion, with Powers of Rosemary, which was don, but no amendment succeeded; this was don for about eight days, but the Le∣thargy still increased: as for internal Medica∣ments we could get nothing down her Throat; It was once attempted, but she was in danger of Choaking, so that for the future, we totally desisted to offer any thing of that kind.

4. Upon the fourteenth day after her first seizure, she was taken with her last fit, upon which, (by reason of the Extremity thereof) she expired: after she was dead, above half a pint of matter, not much unlike thick Milk, came (as I suppose) out of her Head by her Nostrills, which smelt as strong of Brandy, as if it had been Brandy it self: which gave me a satisfaction, that the Brain was hurt therewith, and the Animal spirits being confounded were overcome, whence proceeded her Lethargy, drousiness, stagnation of the naturall juyces, and obstruction, or rather a suffocation of the Vital flame.

XX. Convulsion fits arising from Exces∣sive pains of the Gout, in both Feet and An∣kles.

1. A Woman about forty years of Age hav∣ing been for about three or four years past troubled with the Gout, was at last so exceed∣ingly afflicted therewith, that she became bed∣rid: This pain, by reason of an accidental tak∣ing of Cold, (it happening in the middle of Win∣ter) was increased, and raged to that extre∣mity, that the sick fell into Convulsion fits, which vehemently afflicted her.

2. I was forthwith called to her assistance, where her Husband related to me, the whole progress of her Disease, which was very strange, and admirable: a Physician and Chyrurgian, which had been before me, had taken away from her at four several times, and all in the space of eight days, above forescore ounces of Blood, hoping therefrom for amendment and Cure, but the sick instead of growing better upon it grew worse and worse every day, and at length became as is before related Con∣vulsive.

3. Moreover, she was afflicted with an ob∣struction of her Courses, which by no artifice they could provoke; so that the condition of the Gentlewoman seemed to be desperate: up∣on this, I caused the parts afflicted to be well bathed with my Guttae vitae, and then applyed over the same, my Emplastrum Arthriticum, inwardly I gave this Bolus: Take Venice Tur∣pentine, a dram: Venice Treacle, half a dram: Extract of Thebain Opium, two grains: Oyl of Vitriol, ten drops: mix altogether for a dose: this she swallowed, and drank after it a little Glass of Rhenish wine, and sugar: This was again repeated at night, and given twice a day for four days; by which the sick had won∣derful ease; and the Convulsion fits much abat∣ed: moreover her Terms, which had been obstructed for more than fourteen months were provoked, and came down very well.

4. A little respite from the Paroxysm be∣ing obtained, I gently purged her with my Fa∣mily Pills, the which she took once a week for six or eight weeks together, by the use of which, she confest her Body to be exceeding well clean∣sed; and they procured to her also an exceed∣ing good Stomach, so that she eat her food ve∣ry well, which she had not don for many months before: but every night going to bed (except the purging days) she took a dose of my Lau∣danum, by which she said she, perceived more comfort, than by all the other Medicaments she had taken thorough her whole life.

5. But by reason of her exceeding weakness (through loosing so much Blood) together with illness and faintness, which often attended her in the day time; I ordered her to take every day, in the morning fasting, an hour before Dinner, and as long before Supper, a little E∣lectuarium ad Tabidos upon a knives point, and if she so pleased, to take after it a small taster of choice Cinnamon water; this she did, and by the assiduous use thereof she was restored out of her weakness, even to admiration.

6. One thing more observable in this Cure is, that whereas this Gentlewoman never had a Child in all her life; nor that she knew of, had ever conceaved with Child, but esteemed her self barren; she, (suddenly after her body had been well cleansed with the Family Pills,) con∣ceived, and brought forth in due time a deli∣cate and lusty Boy: and after him, had seve∣ral other brave and lusty Children: this I look upon to be caused from the power and force of the said Family Pills, which not only effectu∣ally cleanse the Womb, and parts adjacent, but also powerfully remove all obstructions, and open all the Vessells thereof, even in their most inward recesses.

II. Convulsion fits in a middle aged Woman, arising from obstruction of the Mesentery with a stony hardness.

1. This wretched and mi••••••able creature having been for a long time extreamly afflict∣ed with an inward pain of the Bowells, was by continuance, length of time, and vehemency of the Pain seized with Convulsion fits. When this Pain first afflicted her, it was after the man∣ner of the Cholick, and came upon her by fits, as the Cholick is wont to do. But in the pro∣cess of time the Pain seemed to be perpe∣tuall.

2. All things were don that could be ima∣gined to give her ease, but nothing prevailed; and although at first, Carminatives and such things as expell'd wind, did her much good; yet as her Disease grew more and more upon her, the Pain became the more extream, and all Me∣dicines which she took seemed rather to increase it: so that at length by the Vehemency there∣of she was taken with Convulsion f••••s.

3. In this extremity I was sent for, and hav∣ing examined into the state of her Disease, I much dispaired of her Cure: and so much the

more, 1. because her Pain was perpetuall, which made me fear some permanent matter. 2. be∣cause that although it was concluded by all to be the Cholick, yet nothing which was proper for the Cholick did her any good. 3. If any thing of an Opiate was given her, it rather added to her misery. 4. she eat but very litle, and what she did eat came away in a Chylous flux. 5. she was consumed even to skin and bone.

4. Upon these considerations, I concluded her Disease to be desperate: and by reason of the Chylous flux which had long afflicted her, I concluded the greatness of he affliction to be in the Mesentery, and that the Convulsion fits were caused by consent through a hurt of the Nerves of the Par Vagum: and thereupon I declined the giving her any Physick; but she had formerly taken many Medicines, so that scarcely any thing could have been thought of, which had been wanting to her; yet nothing that she took did her any good.

5. In this lingering condition she continued for a season, but at length in the strength of a Convulsion fit dyed: after she was dead, some of the Physicians which had been before con∣cern'd in her cure, desired to have her opened; the which was ••••n in my presence; all things were found well in her, from Head to Foot, excepting the Mesentery, which was changed into a stoney hardness, with many little stones in it, in several parts thereof; and the Chylous receptacles themselves were filled with these stones, which were of strange and unusual shapes, not round, but cornered and sharp, after a most admirable manner: and some of them shot out into length like Crystalls.

6. I enquired of her Husband, what he thought was the prime or first cause of all her illness, and he told me, he believed it to be from her drinking Epsom waters; for before she went thither she was well enough, and ailed nothing: but going thither and drinking those waters plentifully, she by degrees, found a Pain in her Bowels to come upon her, which ne∣ver after perfectly left her, and to her dying day she was of the belief, that the drinking of those waters was the sole cause of her Disease, and Death; the which I also am inclinable to think, for as much as I have known them to be the ruine, of a great many more be∣sides.

XII. Conv••lsion fits in a young Child about six weeks old.

1. This Child through the intollerable grip∣ing of the Bowels fell into Convulsion fits, the which were so vehement upon it; that upon every Paroxysm, they feared the Child would never come out of them: in the absence of these fits, it would almost continually cry, in so much that I concluded, it must be wind, or a sharp humor, or both, that afflicted it, and was the cause of its crying, and also of the Con∣vulsion fits.

2. Upon this, I ordered the powers of Ca∣raways, six or eight drops to be given to the Child in Sack; and morning and evening, five or six drops of my Gutta vitae to be given in wine also: these things gave the Child imme∣diate ease: also, outwardly I caused all the Bel∣ly of the Child, as also the Stomach thereof to be anointed with Oyl of Mace by expression; and over the same a plaister of Mithridate to be applyed.

3. These things had their desired effects, for the Child had presently ease, and never but one fit of the Convulsion after, and that much more gentle than the former: however after that we had overcome the fits, and the Child seemed to be restored, I caused it to be purg'd very well with Manna, correcting it with the Powers of Caraways: this brought away a great quantity of black and Green slimy filth from the Child, and purged it pleasantly without any Pain; so that its diseases vanished, and never returned any more.

XIII. The History of a Gentleman that was seiZ'd with the Cramp after a very strange manner.

1. This Gentleman, by reason of taking cold in his Feet, was seiz'd with the Cramp in both his Legs, so that when the fit came, the Calves would be both shrunk up, and be like hard knots, almost as big as ones fist, which made him rore and cry out with vehemency, like a

mad or distracted man; the extremity there∣of in less than half an hour, would be gon; but the Convulsion of the parts being very strong, left a great soreness behind it, and so weakn'd him, that he could not set his Feet upon the ground to go; and if he strove to beare his Bo∣dy upon them; it was with exceeding great Pain.

2. This Disease continuing, the Convulsion by degrees seized upon other parts, and in like manner afflicted his Hands and Arms, so that he could scarcely stir himself: and upon al∣most the least motion, or turning himself, one part or another would be crampt or shrunk up, with a horrible Pain or tortor of the part: upon the sudden opening of his Mouth, it would seize him under his Chin, so that he trembled to think of yawning; and indeed upon any sud∣den motion, or the feeling of the least cold the spasm would take him, somtimes in one part, somtimes in two parts, somtimes in more, and somtimes it would be universal over his whole Body.

3. In the first place I caused the Patient to be put into a warm Sulphur-bath, because it has great power not only to open obstructions, but also to dilate the Pores, whereby the Cold and Windy vapours or flatulent Spirit, en∣gendred in the Muscles, Nerves, and Tendons, might be in some measure drawn out: this don, I applyed, to the principal parts afflicted with the Cramp, this following Cataplasm: Take fresh roots of Bryony, of Marsh-mallows, of Mallows, of each one handful: boyl them in Milk till they are soft; then beat them into a mash, and add to them the mucilage of seeds of Fleawort, and Quinces, Line-seed, of each two ounces: Goose, and Dogs grease, of each one ounce: Oyl of Bays, an ounce and half: Oyls of Amber, and of Anniseeds, of each half an ounce: Saffron, two drams: pouder of Bay∣berries, enough to make it of a Convenient stif∣ness: mix all well together: spread it upon Leather, and apply it.

4. This went not without its desired effect, for the Patient found much ease and Comfort by it: but being removed, and exposing him∣self to the Air, or not being so careful, as he ought to be of taking cold, the Tetanos return∣ed again, and that with a greater Vehemency: whereupon, I advised the Application of the same Cataplasm again; but first I caused all the Convulsed parts, for two days to be well anointed, Morning and Evening, with this fol∣lowing: Take Frankincense, Mastich, of each one ounce: Storax, Benjamin, Myrrh, Opo∣panax, Bdellium, Elemi, Sagapenum, Amo∣niacum sarcocol, of each half an ounce: Eu∣phorbiam, Aloes, Labdanum, Castoreum, roots of Galangal, Costus, Nutmegs, Mace, of each six drams: sage, Marjoram, ground-Pine, Rose∣mary and Lavender flowers, of each ten drams: Venice Turpentine, a pound: distil all in a Cop∣per Vesica, or in a retort, according to Art, so will you have a water and Oyl: which keep a∣part: with the water I caused him to be well bathed; and then after that, I caused him to be anointed with the Oyl: and after two days as aforesaid, applyed again the former Cata∣plasm.

5. Upon the removing of the Cataplasm, to avoid his immediate taking of Cold, as also to strengthen the parts weakned by the Vehemen∣cy of the Convulsion, I applyed this following Emplaster: Take Oyl of sweet Almonds new drawn, Oyl of Camomil, Oyl of earth-worms, Oyl of Whelps, Oyl of Castoreum, Oyl of Line seed by Expression, Oyl of Nutmegs by expres∣sion, Oyl of Hypericon, of each one ounce: Mucilage, of Fleawort-seed, and Linseed, Ducks-grease, Calves marrow, Turpentine, Frankin∣cense, Myrrh, of each half an ounce: flowers of sulphur, six drams: pouder of Earth-worms, two drams: Saffron, a dram and half: Wax a sufficient quantity, make all into a Cerate, which spread upon Leather, or new Cloths, and ap∣ply it.

6. This Emplaster was kept upon the part for a week, and renewed every week for a month or more: at what time I advised him to leave it off, but withall to bath the parts twice a day, with some warming and comfor∣table water; and so I doubted not, but he might be secure for the future of his Health, as in relation to this disease: Take roots of Or∣rice, Horse-radish, Angelica, Acorus, both

Galangals, Costus, Pellitory of spain, Zedory, Gingen, Cyperus, leaves of sage, Time, Rose∣mary, Rue, Marjoram, Bawm, Hyssop, sa∣vory, Lavender, flowers of staechas, flowers of Hypericon, Cowslips, Mustard seeds, Gith, Juniper and Bay-berries, Nutmegs, Cloves, Mace, Cubebs, spicknard, long and round Pep∣per, Xyloaloes, yellow sanders, saffron, Fran∣kincense, Myrrh, Liquid storax, Castoreum, of each one ounce: sal niter, eight ounces: all being prepared and poudred grosly, affuse upon them spirit of Wine, five pints: digest in a warm place for a week, then draw off the spirit in Bal∣neo Mariae, or sand according to Art. with this water he bathed his Limbs and other parts affected Morning and Evening, and became well.

7. But that we might the more secure his Health to him, and take away the progenera∣tive Cause of that flatulent spirit producing the Tetanos, I advised him to purge two or three times with my Family Pills with Aloes: and withall every Morning and Night going to bed to take about a spoonful of this following mixture, by the use of which thing he found an incomparable kindness: Take of the best Cin∣namon water, a pint: Cardamom water, Aquae Coelestis, Aquae Mirabilis, Aquae Jmperialis, of each half a pint: spirit of saffron, Doctor Stephens his water, of each four ounces: syrup of Roses solutive, syrup of Clove-gily-flowers, of each a pound and half: mix them well together, and keep them in a glass bottle close stopt for use; to be taken Morning and Evening, as aforesaid.

XXIV. Convulsion fits in a young Man, a∣rising from a hurt of the Genus Nervosum, oc∣casioned by a Blow.

1. How many ways Convulsions may be cau∣sed is not my place hear to lay down: yet by reason of this present observation, We shall a little search into some of the principal causes, that thereby we may make our discourse som∣thing the more intelligible to the Apprehension of the industrious Student. The more fre∣quent cause of Convulsions is thought to be an irritation of the Brain, pouring forth the Spi∣rits into the Nerves: such a one by which its expulsive, faculty stired up, rising to cast off what is troublesome to it, doth together drive forth the Spirits; as Nature every where feel∣ing Pain and trouble, is wont to thrust Spirits thither, and together with them Blood al∣so, somtimes so powerfully, that there follows an Inflamation of that part which receives them.

2. But this irritation, or trouble of the Brain, is thought by some Physicians to happen rather by consent or compassion with some parts, than from its proper affect; because we see Convul∣sions happen rather from an affect and disease of another part, far distant somtimes from the Brain, than of the Brain it self; as from a Nerve prickt, a Tendon hurt, or some violent Medicine taken inwardly.

3. Whereas, if it did happen from some grievious disease of the Brain (as indeed it must needs be a grievious Disease, which must induce so vehement a symptom) the acci∣dents of Convulsions would not so soon remit: as also in other hurts of this principal part, we see there succeeds long continued and last∣ing symptoms, as you see in an Apoplexy. Now those affects which happen to the Nerves, which cause Convulsions, as a Puncture, In∣flamation, &c. if they were in the Brain, would not cause them, but an Apoplexy and Phrensie: although the Brain thus affected by consent also, if the cause offending be great, and follows continually, not only irritating the Brain it self; but also by its Vehemency and frequency so hurting it, contracts also its proper Disease; then the contention of Con∣vulsions lasts almost continually (as I not long since observed in a noble Lady,) nor does the sick hardly ever come any more to them∣selves, or the fit wholy cease, till the Patient is dead.

4. Yet it may be also, that from the same cause, (as we shall anon speak, when we treat of that which is poysonous) both the Genus Nervosum, and Brain being hurt together, Con∣vulsions may happen, coupled together with other hurts of the mind.

5. But to find out, the part which is first

affected, and with which the Brain consents, we must consider the symptoms, to wit, the inordinate motion, and privation of Senses, which has so great consent with the Muscles ex∣ercising voluntary motion, and with the Brain communicating sense; that that being hurt, the Muscles are forced, and the Brain ceaseth a while from its function, which we say, is that Genus nervosum, Or Nervous System, because it begins in the Brain, and ends in the Muscles: under which name (viz. of Genus Nervosum) we understand all the Nerves in the whole Bo∣dy, both within and without the skull, espe∣cially those endued with the sence of feeling, and the nervous parts which are compounded of them, which are of most exquisite sence: the which being so hurt, that the functions of the Brain are abolished by sympathy, and those of the Muscles augmented, it must needs be, that Convulsions follow, which how it may come to pass we will now immediately explicate.

6. The offence of the Genus Nervosum, not that which weakens its functions, but that which by bringing trouble to it, doth rather stir up its faculty, if it be caused either in one place or more, a Nerve or nervous part is affected: and if the hurt be great: then the whole Genus Nervosum (or Nervous system,) rising up, whilst it endeavors to shake off that with which it is offended, doth together exagitate the Brain, from whence it proceeds, and draws it into con∣sent; so that, that also feeling these disturban∣ces of the Nerves, whilst it endeavors to help them, to resist and overcome the disaffection, driving the Animal spirits from it self, into the beginning of the Nerves, it is for a season left destitute of its functions: but no otherwise, than we somtimes observe in a syncope, that the Heart without any proper affect of its own, the Spirits wandering for some other cause, doth cease from its function, till they return again.

7. In which effusion of the Spirits into the Nerves, it happens that the motive power does continue in them, not only as was declared for∣merly, but also by reason of the plenty of Spi¦rits of the Nerves, the Muscles are excited to exercise their motion; but chiefly that Violent and inordinate motion, in the beginning of Epi∣leptical fits is acted for this cause, that whilst the Genus Nervosum does indeavour to expel this hurt or disaffection, it is contracted into it self, and then again dilated, forcing the Muscles of the whole Body, into whose beginnings the Nerves are inserted, by consecution to commit those inordinate and outragious motions, by pul∣ling or drawing, and then remitting them; and that so long till the offending matter is remov∣ed or expelled from them; or by reason of de∣jection of strength, and as it were weariness, when they can no longer exercise Motion, yet notwithstanding they retain their Limbs convul∣sed or attracted, stiff and fixt for a while, till at last they come wholly to themselves.

8. This often happens in a Catalepsis, pre∣sently at the beginning, no agitation of the Body going before: perhaps because in that Disease; there is not so great an effusion of Spirits into the Nerves, when as in that somtimes some senses do yet remain, and there is a less iritation of the Nerves, whence as it may be accounted (as Pla∣terus saith) a certain lighter kind of Epilepsie, yet very seldom happening, otherwise proceed∣ing from the same cause, which breeds an Epi∣lepsie, but which doth either l••s•• ••ffect the Ge∣nus Nervosum by irritation, or else has that property, to produce a stupidity or rigidness of the members, rather than a Convulsion.

9. But that these causes of hurt to the Ge∣nus Nervosum, from whence an Epilepsy often proceeds, a Catalepsis more seldom, are di∣verse and frequent, it is no wonder; for that the Nerves by reason of their exquisite sence, are not only unable to endure great hurts or Pains, but also are so easily offended by the slightest, that they cannot suffer the touch of a body (for which reason, whilst they are carried in the Body, nature hath provided for them, that they touch not the Bones, neither are they joyned to any other parts, (besides those into which they are inserted) from which notwith∣standing they are not exasperated by divers in∣cursions; unless they be great and violent, so that they be Convulsed; of which sort are those which may happen to them from a Wound, ir∣ritation,

or infection, either acting singly, or more of them together.

10 That a Convulsion may be caused by a Wound made in a Nerve or Nervous part, daily experience has confirmed; yet not from every Wound of a Nerve, but only, or for the most part, from a Nerve hurt by Pricking, upon which Convulsions are wont to follow; its function being thereby stirred up, by reason of the hurt: for which reason also, if we cut off a Nerve Convulsed, we cure the Convulsion caus∣ed in it: but this molestation of the Nerve, proceeding from the solution of its continuity, is yet more increased by an Inflamation or Pu∣trefaction, from the Corruption restrained in the narrow hole of the Puncture of the said Nerve, and by the great Pain from thence which for the most part does attend this affecti∣on if the Wound happen from Iron, which of its own nature is an enemy to the Nerves, com∣monly by reason of its rust, or because it is infected, or a blow or bite of a poysonous Beast.

11. But also a Nervous part being wound∣ed, especially in that place where the Nerves goe under it, and constitute the greater part of it; as the Bladder being hurt at the Neck; the Muscles about their beginnings, either by chance, or whilst the Chyrurgian and Lithotomist at∣tempt an aperture of the place, most common∣ly dangerous Convulsions succeed, which a difficulty of swallowing going before (so much feared by the Chyrurgian, calling it a Spasm of the Stomach) is wont most an end to fore∣tell.

12. An irritation of the Genus Nervosum, if it be vehement, may also cause Convulsions; which proceeds either from some great Cause, which because it torments the Nerves with grievious Pain, maketh Convulsions by accident; or the which stimulating the Nerves by it self, by a manifest Quality, and causing Pain, or none, together with it, doth convell them: which cause proceeds either from Medicines, or in∣ternal humors, as Blood, Choller, Flegm, mo∣lesting the Nerves by their proper substance, or by a Vapour only.

13. But Convulsions are caused chiefly, by reason of Pain, either, by reason of the great∣ness, and long continuance of the Torment, as in Cholicks, from whence often arises Convulsions; or if they vex and molest Bodies endued with most exquite sence, and which by reason of their tenderness do uneasily and difficultly en∣dure such Pains: on which acount also Infants, not only in divers kinds of sickness, but when they begin to breed Teeth, being exasperated with Pain, are oftentimes taken with Convul∣sions: and also immoderate Tickling made in the like tender Bodies, because that also gives trouble and a sad sense, experience doth testify hath caused Convulsions in many: and by this Artifice a certain Man murthered five or six Wives one after another, and being dead pre∣tended they died in Convulsions, which was true; the Convulsion being excited by an immo∣derate Tickling, which the Devil prompted him to, for the love of Money sake, he getting a new portion with every wife: at length it was discovered, and the man was hanged, for the exercising of his Art. And it is confest by all, that even a light Tickling, caused by Worms, creeping up and down the Guts, and Stomach, and sucking them with their Mouths, doth move in Infants not only horrors, and scratcing of the Nose, but also light Epileptical Con∣vulsions.

14. Medicines taken, which stimulate the Expulsive faculty of the Stomach and Guts; if they excite those parts too much, as they ex∣cite a Convulsive motion, which is by Hiccough∣ing; so, if they be very sharp, biting, and burn∣ing, as those things put up into the Nose, they excite sneezing. And so a purging faculty, especially joyned to them, by which they solicite Nature at once, very much, both by Vomit and stool produce Convulsions; such as happens by Hellebor, Euphorbium, Aron-roots, flowers of Antimony and other like things; and those deadly too, if by too much insinuating of them∣selves into the parts they cease not to exagitate them: but not yet deadly, if when they first be∣gin to solicite Nature, being repulsed by her, they be cast forth upwards and downwards, as I have observed from the use of Vitrum Anti∣monij, and Asarabacca, some feeling only fore∣runings

of a Spasm in their Thighs, but others also Convulsive, to have returned again to them∣selves.

15. Corrupt and putrifying Blood, if it be carried into the Genus Nervosum, or Nervous system, by its disaffection may cause Convul∣sions; as it somtimes happens from a blow of the Head, penetrating the Skull, yet not dividing the substance of the Brain, (whence rather an Apoplexy would follow) but only wounding the Membrains of the Brain, with a Malign quality, by consent of which, and also that sink∣ing, and possessing the beginning of the Nerves, produced from the Basis of the Brain, it breeds Convulsions, which follow Wounds of the Head: which sort of Convulsions also in Apostems, are sometimes wont to follow a Frenzie which went before.

16. Choler of all the humors is commonly the principal, as well the Yollow as the Green and the Black which by its Acrimony is wont to stimulate and irritate the Nerves and Ner∣vose parts; the which also by its thinness, it the more easily enters: which in Cholick Pains, does cause those Convulsions; not only because it breeds those excruciating pains; but also, because, insinuating it self into the Stomach and Guts, it doth too much provoke them with a kind of Caustick vertue or force, which Con∣vulsions last as long as this acid humor ceases not to irritate; so that there is no need to fan∣cy any other reason, that it is far-fetcht to the Nerves, if it ought to cause Covulsions: Also if a Covulsion proceeds from Anger, they think it may happen, by reason of the boyling and effusion of Choler; although that rather pro∣ceeds from too great a motion of the mind stir∣ing up the Spirits.

17. From thin, salt and acrid Flegm, also, falling down from the Brain, into the spaces through which the Nerves are carried, and pulling of them, an Epilepsie or Convulsions may be excited. As in a Palsy somtimes moist∣ning the Nerves, it first causeth Resolutions; afterwards by its Arimony, which it either had before, or by putrefaction has newly acquired, provoking the Nerves, it somtimes excites those Convulsions, which sometimes follow after a Palsie; which sneezing, arising from the same acrid humor, distilling also from the Brain in∣to the Nose, is wont to go before and Presage; whence some think, the custome of praying [God save you] after sneezing, took its first rise; for that it had been observed that sneez∣ing was somtimes a fore-runner of an Epilepsy, or Convulsion.

18. Filthy and acrid Vapours, also if some malignity be joyned, being raised in the body, and especially plucking and twitching the be∣gining of the Nerves; or else where, provok∣ing and irritating especially the greater, do be∣get Convulsions, which they say, are caused by consent, or Compassion (as we may better speak in Our Dialect) such as are from Viti∣ous, corrupt, and Putrid meats, humors, Ex∣crements, Worms, collected in the Stomach, Guts, Womb, Veins, in divers diseases and disaffections of those parts, or of the whole Bo∣dy, as those raised from Feavers, all which do produce Convulsions, and which are usual to follow those diseases.

19. But such things which excite Convul∣sions from a Malign and Poysonous Quality, are various: which according to the Divers na∣ture of Poysons, and as they are either inimi∣call only to the Genus Nervosum, they do in∣fect that only, or the Brain also with it, and so produce Convulsions; where, the Brain being hurt or disafected withall, other accidents do continue in the organ of the Senses after the Convulsive fit is over, especially in an Alie∣nation of mind and depraved motion. Among these Poysonous causes, that sometimes offers it self, which by its propriety, and private hurt brings forth the symptom of a Catalepsy, rather than of a true Convulsion. Yet because it is a Disease very seldom happening, it evidently demonstrates, that seldom such a Venenate Quality is raised or breed in us, which may produce or excite such an affect in our Bodies: but very often that, which stirs up Epilepsies and Convulsions: Now of what kind soever that is, its fountain and original somtimes lurks intrinsecally in the Brain, or Bowels or Veins, or in the habit of the Body; and som••imes Ex∣trinsecally to the Body.

20. Somtimes Convulsions vehement and of long continuance have been caused from the corruption or Apostemation of the Membranes of the Brain, by reason of a filthy vapour rais∣ed from them, and at set times entring the Ven∣tricles of the Brain; as Fernelius once observed in the dissection of an Epileptick: yet this cause for the most part, possessing the sub∣stance of the Brain, or its Ventricles, should rather induce an Apoplexy, than Convulsions. However, in the mean season we do not deny, but that the cause of an Epilepsy or Convulsions may oftentimes lye in the Head; for that we meet with many faults within the skull; in the membranes of the Brain, in its substance, and in it humors, which raging with their poyson∣ous and malign quality (at set times, as the nature of the Venom may be) by provoking the Membranes and Genus Nervosum, do cause either a long continued, and almost incurable Epilepsie; or Vehement and horrid Convul∣sions.

21. But the nature of the Venenate cause, as also of other Poysons, we can no otherwise know, than as by dissections made, somtimes a speck, or little spot is discovered; somtimes some black or frothy humor, in some inward part of the skull, or bone, or membrane, or Brain it self: and somtimes nothing at all can be discerned: But then that it is of a poyson∣ous quality, we gather from this, for that there is no manifest cause, of any great moment, yet nevertheless such horrid symptoms are pro∣duced, which although they kill not the sick, will yeeld to no remedies.

22. This Venenate cause, also lying in the Bowels, may produce the like long continued and rebellious Epilepsies or Convulsions; as Poy∣sons taken into the Stomach and Guts, which have somtimes the properly of begetting an Epi∣lepsy or Convulsions: Or meat changed into the nature of Poyson: Or Excrements assuming a Venenate quality contained in those places, as also in the Womb, or other parts. Of all which that these are the causes, and do lie in the Veins, is known and judged, from the affctes concuring with them; Or from others offering themselves about the Praecordia and Heart∣strings; or in the Veins; Or from the disaffecti∣on of the Stomach or Womb.

23. The Veins in like manner, if they be filled with Malign and Poysonous humors of this kind, as it often hapens in Malignant and Pestilential diseases, as such as are Epidemicall and Contagious, where the Malignancy doth be∣siege the Heart, and more especially the Genus Nervosum, do after a more particular manner excite deadly Convulsions, such as are wont to happen in Feavers; so much not by reason of the great hurt of the Nerves from extream heat, as from the venenate quality of the hu∣mor assaulting the Animal spirits both in the Blood and Nerves. Or, if without any such Pestilential, Epidemical or Contagious di∣sease, the humors heaped up in the Veins, should be changed into a Poysonous property, inimical to the Brain and Nerves, then Epileptical Con∣vulsions would rather be induced, than the others, more especially if the Melancholy hu∣mor should meet with such a transformation, which somtimes brings along with it a deep hy∣pochondriacal Melancholly, foolishness, frenzy, or Madness; and from this cause does proceed a long continued and incurable Epilepsie:

24. Moreover as a Venenate cause raised from the same, may cause some short Madness (being produced from matter collected in the Meseraick veins whether Lacteal or other;) so that may also produce rather Epileptick Con∣vulsions than Hypochondriacal Melancholy, whence also some think that a Catalepsie is cau∣sed; which we hold to arise from subtil Va∣vapours ascending from a contaminated ma∣lign or venenate Melancholy humor, and with a Vehement and sudden motion, striking or smiting the Animal spirits and Genus Ner∣vosum.

25. Also, in Women, such matter is wont more usually to be heaped up in or about the Vains of the Womb, where also the Blood re∣tained and corrupted, (rather than the seed, which seldom is affected with such a Malignity, except in the furor, rage, or Madness of the Womb) doth cause Convulsions, such as are often to be seen in Virgins and Women Hysterical, who never yet had their Courses, or have them prae∣ternaturally

stopt, whether before or after Childing.

26. That the like quality may be bred or contained in the habit of the body, which may cause Convulsions or Epilepsies, experience doth daily testifie: from which Galen and Fernelius write, they have observed that Air in an Epi∣leptick Child ascending from his Foot, in one ex∣ample; and the like air or Vapour runing from the Crown, through the outward parts of the Head, in an other example, did cause Epilep∣tick fits, as often as they came or returned, and this very thing, I my self have three or four times observed in so many special exam∣ples, wherein the air or vapour ascending up∣wards, seemed to the Sick, as if he had put his Foot, Leg, or Arm, leisurely into cold water, deeper and deeper, the vapours gradually pro∣ceeding not much unlike to the rising of the cold superficies of the said water. And it has also been somtimes observed, that an Air or Va∣pour, runing from the Hand, where afterwards an Apostem has bred, as also from the Feet or upper places, has don the like.

27. That the like Poyson entring the body from without, many cause Convulsions or Epilep∣sies, for the like reason; as the bitting of Veno∣mous Beasts, especially of the Viper, or a mad Dog, the sting of Scorpions, the reception of Arsenick, sublimate, or other venenate and Corosive things, the same quotidian Experience doth largely witness: and particularly in the biting of a mad Dog, besides the symptom of Madness, and other cruell indications, Con∣vulsions are at length excited, through the Ma∣lignity of the Venene spirit, whereby the Pa∣tient is carried off; and I once saw Convulsions arise from poysonous smells, hastily assaulting the Animal spirits in the Brain; which was don in a lusty young Man who hastily and un∣advisedly received the fumes of very strong spirit of Niter, by which he was immediately cast into most cruel Convulsion fits.

28. These things being premised, for the better understanding of the matter; we shall now come to deliver our Observation; which is of a Convulsion arising from a hurt of the Genus Nervosum by a blow received on the hinder part of the Head and vertebrae of the Neck, how great the blow was, I will not de∣termine; this I am sure of, it brought dread∣ful Convulsions upon the sick, so vehement that life was despaired of.

29. The sick was immediately committed to a warm bed, Roger Dixon the Chyrurgian and my self being sent for: the fits often re∣turned, for the strength of the Convulsive mo∣tion being spent, and the fit as it were going off, the sick scarcely seemed to be free; but new Convulsions were forthwith excited: Ro∣ger was for letting him Blood; which although it was a blow, I was in this cause utterly against, believing that if any such evacuation was ne∣cessary, that Nature would provoke it, how∣ever in the mean season all the external parts behind were bathed, first with the Queen of Hungaries water, then with the Powers of Am∣ber, and that not slightly: also some few drops of the Powers of Rosemary were conveyed up his Nostrills, they, as also his Forehead and Temples, being extreamly well bathed there∣with; by which without doubt the Brain and Animal spirits were conforted.

30. But in less than six hours after the blow, (by reason I suppose of the adhibition of the Powers of Rosemary to the Nostills) a vehe∣ment Haemorrhage followed, in which the sick bled by the Nostrills at least a quart of Blood: seeing so exceeding great an evacuation, we did our endeavour to stop it: to his Forehead, this Cataplasm was applyed: Take the white of an new laid Egg, Terra sigillata, one ounce: fine Bole, a sufficient quantity: mix and make a Pultise; which was applyed with hards of flax upon Leather, as aforesaid: all the ex∣tream parts were strongly bound with good Ligature: the Testicles were also bound, and fomented with Venegar; the sick was laid up∣on his back, and the pouder of Toads was blown up his Nostrills with a Quill; and a dry'd Toad was given him to hold in his Hand: Moreover the Crown of his Head was shaved, and a Ve∣sicatory applyed thereto: by the use of this meanes, the Haemorrage was in a short time stopt and the Vehemency and swift return of

the Convulsions slakt, whereby the Patient had some ease.

31. In about six or seven hours more his bleeding was again excited, so that it was sup∣posed, that he lost at least three pints more of blood, and then it was stopt again, by the use of the means aforesaid: This extream bleeding doubtless mightily weakned the Patient, yet certainly delivered him from all future danger of an Apoplexy or other mortal Diseases of the Brain, which otherwise might have hap∣pened.

32. But now whereas his Body was exceed∣ingly bound, so as he had not been at stool in above six days, no doubt but it was of evil conse∣quence in this case, and therefore I ordered the exhibition of this following Clyster: Take fresh roots of Lillys and Peony, of each two oun∣ces: leaves of Mallows, Beets, garden Arach, Sage, Centory the less, of each a handful: flow∣ert of Lavender, Staechas, Rosemary, Camo∣mil, of each a pugil: Peony seeds, Wheat bran, of each two drams: Caraways, one dram: make a decoction, and strain: to a pint here∣of add juyce of Beets, brown Sugar, of each an ounce: Hiera picra, Hirae Logadij, of each two drams: Oy•• of Amber, a dram: salt, half a dram: mix and make a Clyster: This was exhibited, and it wrought gently and plesantly upon him; and he confest himself much the better.

33. To Comfort him, by the mouth, I gave this: Take Aqua Coelestis, Aqua Mirabilis, of each one ounce: Angelica water the grea∣ter composition, half an ounce: Peony water, syrup of Betony, of each two ounces: syrup of Limons, one ounce: mix them: of this the sick took now and then a spoonful, which exceed∣ingly cheared his spirits, and Corroborated his Animal faculties, now very much hurt.

34. Every six hours also, I caused the parts aforenamed to be bathed with the Powers of Amber and Rosemary mixed, of each a like quantity, as also all the back bone from the highest Vertebra of the Neck to the Os Coc∣cigis; all the joynts and extream parts, toge∣ther with the Stomach, Hypochonders, and Testicles, whereby the whole Nervous system was strengthned, and truly restored: And al∣though I must confess that inward Medicines are of mighty use in Convulsions; yet I am ful∣ly perswaded, and confirmed herein by very large experience, that external Medicaments, of a heating Anodyne resolving and neurotick property, do much more contribute to this Cure, as sooner reaching the parts hurt (ex∣cept the Convulsion be first excited in the Bow∣ells by poyson, violent purges, a Vehement Diarrhea the Cholick, &c. and yet in this Case when the Genus Nervosum comes to be universally afflicted, externalls, (such as those afore named, are of most admirable use,) and this thing I could not but communicate to all the sons of Art, for the sake and benefit of the poor afflicted patients.

35. The Chyrurgian, my assistant, would needs have the Sick constantly to take of the following wine, a quarter of a pint or better morning, noon, and night, about half an hour before eating, the which he told me, He had found large experience of; and doubtless it is a very good thing: Take Rhenish wine, choice Canary, of each a gallon: Peony roots, and seeds bruised, Misleto of the Oak, thick Galangal, Ca∣lamus Aromaticus, Zedoary, Aracardiums, of each an ounce and half: flowers of Lavender and Rosemary, of Staechas and Saffron, of each two oun∣ces: Betony, Bawm, Calamint, Mint, Sweet∣marojram, flowers of Lilly convally, of each half a handful: Wormwood, a larg handful: digest all for eight or ten days: then decant of the clear wine, and let the Patient drink it: but it will be good to let the wine stand upon the Ingredi∣ents close stopt up, during the whole time of the drinking: this Wine the sick took: but I prescribed him to take it either with, or imme∣diately after the taking of the following pouder: Take roots and seeds of Peony, Misleto of the Oak, Elks hoof, skull of a dead Man, of each half an ounce: Swallows dried and poudred, Peacocks dung, Nutmegs, Cloves, of each six drams: Musk, one ounce: make of all a very fine pouder: the dose from a scruple to two scruples: according to age and strength: This our Patient took half a dram thereof thrice a day, with Roger Dixons wine aforemention∣ed;

by the use of which things he prefectly re∣covered.

36. He was exceeding weak for a long time, and upon the taking of the least cold, or over∣straining himself, or lifting any thing beyond his strength, his Convulsions were very apt to return for more than eight weeks together; for which cause sake we the more earnestly prest upon him the constant assiduous use of the a∣foresaid Medicaments, till such time as he found his perfect restoration: and for the keeping of his body soluble, I ordered him often to repeat the aforementioned Clyster: moreover, after about five or six weeks time, I began to purge his Body, which I did with my Family Pills with Aloes; and this was done once a week for a month together.

37. That the hurt in this Patient was great, was apparent, and that the Genus Nervosum, or whole Nervous System was grieved, was al∣most without question, for that the Convulsion seized every part from Head to Foot, leaving him no where free that we could discern; and the iteration of the fits were such at the first, as for the most part deprived him of all his sen∣ses, except that of feeling; and yet notwith∣standing all this, the blow was not so great, as to make a wound outward; but from thence the Chyrurgian took his more dangerous prog∣nosticks: however, such was the force there∣of, as to breake some of the Sanguineous ves∣sels within the Brain, as was manifest from that very great flux of Blood, which Roger confi∣dently affirmed came from the Cavities within the Skull: and without which evacuation, the fick must have inevitably perished.

XV. Convulsion fits in a Child new born.

1. It was a little Girl, born dead, to ap∣pearance; but after a little time revived a∣gain; in less than half an hour after she was taken with Convulsions fits: My advice, (being accidentally present) was desired: the Face of the Child was all over black, as it were, and its whole body trembled: in the middle of the fit, about a spoonful of water fell out of its right Nostril.

2. I immediatly advised to the following thing: Take Oyl of Cinnamon, one drop, mix it with a little Virgin honey very well; to this add six or eight drops of the Blood squeeZ'd out of the Navel-string, and a spoonful of brest Milk: mix them, and give it the Child: This was done, and the Child was forthwith restored: I order∣ed it to be repeated, and also to be given if the Child should have any more fits, in the fit: The Infant had a second fit; but by three or four times giving thereof was perfectly Cu∣red.

3. I cured another new born Babe, by the same prescription; and have advised it to se∣veral, where it has always very well succeeded: moreover where the Child has been older, so that the blood of the Navel-string could not be¦gotten; I have cured them by giving two or three grains of the Navel string in pouder; which is a singular experiment worth the re∣marking.

4. A Child ten days old was seiz'd with Con∣vulsions, which I cured with this: Take Breast milk, a spoonful or two; of my Guttae Vitae, four or six drops; mix them, and give it the Child twice or thrice a day. A child two months old was cured with this: Take choise Canary half a spoonful; of my Guttae Vitae, six 〈◊〉〈◊〉 eight drops, mix them: This was given, and repeated, three or four times a day: and although the Infant had four or five several fits in twelve hours space, yet by taking of this Medicament it was perfectly recovered.

5. Another Child, about two or three months old, seized with strong Convulsions, arising as I conceived, from Wind, I cured with this: Take choice Canary, a little spoonful; powers of Car∣raways, Guttae Vitae, of each six drops, mix them and give it: this was given about four times a day: and in two days time, was freed from its fits: many other Children of the same Age, and some elder, I have cured with the same prescription, save, as their a••e was greater, I augmented the dose both of the powers of Car∣raways, and Guttae Vitae accordingly.

6. The Oyl of Cinnamon is a specifick in this Case, and I have often times given it with admirable success, but that is not every where to be got, and therefore somewhat else must be

substituted in its room; if that therefore be wanting, I scarcely know any thing better than the powers of Caraways and my Guttae Vitae, to which if you add two or three grains of the pouder of the Navel string, you will not do a miss: I have cured many Children with these things, and as far as I can remember, never yet so much as once exhibited them in Vain.

7. And indeed all those things which com∣fort the Vitals, and refresh or give respite to Animal spirits must be good and proper here, such are the Tinctura aurea, Tintura Vitae, Tinctura diaphoretica Paracelsi, and all Neu∣roticks, of what kind or quality soever; yet this is to be understood, that by so much as they are made more spiritual, by so much the more admirable they are; and operate with the greater celerity and certainty; and therefore the Spirits, Potestates or Volatile Salt of Mans skull, or of Elks hoof, of Vipers, Swallows, Magpies, Peony, Amber, &c, much tran∣scend any gross or terrene preparation of them, wherein the Volatile and pure parts are clothed and clogged with the Earthy, &c.

XVI. Convulsion fits in a young Lady arising from terror an•• ••ffrightment.

1. This Lady from a sudden consternation of mind or affrightment, was immediately seiz∣ed with Convulsions; so that, falling into a fit, her whole Body seemed to be contracted, from Head to Foot, with intollerable Pain or dolour, no other apparent cause going before, she being one of a very healthful and sound constitution and habit of body, and of a pleasant merry dis∣position.

2. These fits came at uncertain times, with∣out any order, and took her many times at great disadvantages, especially upon the least commotion of the mind, or disturbance of the spirit, Anger, or Affrightment, as the going over a dangerous bridg, looking down from a very high place, presence of a Serpent, Toad, Spider, or such like: and somtimes also they would seize her in her sleep, especially if she was dreaming of any frightful matter: They were also so often iterated, that in a very few weeks she became as it were a Changling.

3. By reason of this Vehement affliction, ma∣ny obstructions were bred in her Body; toge∣ther with a stoppage of her Terms: she had also contracted a paleness of Face weakness of the Stomach, indigestion, nauseousness or lothing, want of Appetite, hoarsness, and Cough, with a certain kind of wheezing; and in short, the whole habit of her Body was altered, her strength impaired, and her mind in some sort alienated; and this purely through the frequen∣cy, and vehemency of the Disease, and long con∣tinuance of the Spasmatick Paroxysm:

4. Her Friends requested my help; and hav∣ing well viewed the Patient, and considered the Disease, as aforesaid, I began the Cure with purging of her; for which purpose I gave her a dose of my Family Pills with Aloes; which I caused her to take twice a week, for three weeks together, with due observation as in o∣ther purges: after three weeks time, I order∣ed her to take them only once a week, and to continue the use of the same for five or six weeks, which she accordingly did; by which the nauseousness and loathing at Stomach was removed, and she was in a little time brought to a good Appetite, and to digest her food ve∣ry well: moreover by the same means her Terms were provok'd and made to flow in good order.

5. And by reason that in the Absence of the fit, she complained of a most Vehement pain of her Head, I caused her hair to be shaved off, and the common Vesicatory of the shops to be applyed: which done, and the blister re∣moved, I caused it to be drawn three or four days with Colewort-leaves, applying the smooth side to the Sore, on the fourth day, I ordered the rough side to be applyed, by which meanes in about thee days more, her Head was healed up: by these blisters her mother told me, she believed, above two quarts of humor evacu∣ated.

6. In the mean season, whilst she took her Pills, I was not unmindful of what was further to be done: But as I was consulting, some of her Relations, were for sending for other Doct∣ors, especially some of the Colledg, of whom Dr. T: and Dr. B: were sent for: with whom,

although I was not vnwilling to consult for the good of my Patient, yet I desired to be excu∣sed, and that they might act apart; but with promise, that if things succeeded not, I would reassume my Task, and do the best I could for my Patient, as if nothing had been.

7. These Gentlemen, having seen the Pati∣ent, and consulted what was, as they thought most fit for her, at last concluded upon these Things. First they ordered this purging Apo∣Zem to be given her: Take roots of Cyperus, Flower-de-luce, Angelica, Zedoary and of Elecampane, if each one ounce: leaves of Be∣tony, Marjoram, Bawn, Penny-royal, Ori∣ganum, Calamint, of each an handful: of the tops of Time, and Sage, of each half a hand∣ful: seeds of Annis, Hartwort, Fennel, of each three drams: Liquorice scraped, Raisons stoned, of each one ounce: choice Sena, two ounces: Carthamus seeds bruised, fresh poly∣pody of the Oak, of each one ounce: Aga∣pick Trochiscated, Turbith, Hermodacts, of each three drams: Ginger, Cloves, of each one dram: Staechas, Rosemary, Sage, and Lavender flow∣ers, of each one pugil: boyl them in fair water to a quart, strain and add four ounces of white Sugar, Clarify it, and Aromatize it with Cin∣namon, two drams: This she took at four times in four mornings: and in the two last draughts they caused Diacarthamum, six drams, to be dissolved, which she drank with care of taking Cold.

8. This done, they caused her to be anointed with this following Liniment: Take old Butter, fat Bacon, of each a quarter of a pound: Bdellium, Ammoniacum, of each one ounce: Myrrh, Castor, of each two drams: flowers of Staechas and Rosemary, of each one pugil: Nut∣meg Cloves, of each one dram: a young Cat stead, bowelled, and cut in peices: put all these things into the belly of a Goose, and rost her very well, cast away the first dripping which is wate∣ry; and the next which is fatty, receive in a vessel half full of Vinegar: with this they caus∣ed all the back bone, and other places afflict∣ed to be anointed. This was used for a while, but not prevailing, they prescribed the fol∣lowing.

9. Take Oyls of Violets, of Roses, of each three ounces: Oyls of Foxes, and of Camomil, of each two ounces: Mucilage of Althea roots, of Faenugreek, and Line-seed, four ounces; white Wax a sufficient quantity: mix, and make an Oyntment; with this in like manner, the Spine and other parts Convulsed were morning and evening anointed; for ten or twelve days: af∣ter which this following was ordered: Take oyl of Castor, and of Earth worms, Oleum de Lateribus, of each two ounces: water of Juniper-berries, half an ounce: with wax a small quantity, mix and make a Liniment: with this the Vertebrae of the Neck and all the back bone was anointed, as also the Fore-head. Temples, and other parts affected. And for the Coroborating or strengthning of the Sick they ordered this: Take Conserves of Violets, of Bugloss, and of Ro∣ses, of each half an ounce: flesh of River, Crabs well boyled and cut small, one ounce: Species Diamargarit frigid, two drams: Pine nuts, half an ounce: Sugar dissolved in Rose Water, half a pound; mix and make morsells; to be eaten at pleasure.

10. All these things were don for a month or more according to order, but without the least appearance of amendm•••••• whereupon, and by reason of the filthyness of the last Oynt∣ment, the Patient entreated her Relation that she might give over the use of those Doctors; and make use of her old Physician; upon which my help was entreated again: I then ordered her the going on and continuing of her Pills, as aforementioned; and to clear, her Bo∣dy from those filthy and stinking Oyntments which had been so long used about her, pre∣scribed this following bath: Take Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, Betony, Marjoram, Origa∣num, Hyssop, Time, Camomel, Fennel, Car∣duus, Scordium, Wormwood, Centory the less, Featherfew, of each a handful: Aniseeds, Caraways, and Fennel-seeds, of each two oun∣ces: all bruised: yellow Sulphur, a pound: Roach Alum, four ounces: Salt of Tartar, two ounces: boyl all in a sufficient quantity of water for a bath; in which let the Sick be put warm, that she may be cleansed: The bath being made, she was put into it, was well cleanswd by rub∣bing

with the Herbs, and sat in it, with much delectation for about half an hour; after which she was taken out and put into a warm Bed.

11. Being in her warm bed, I caused her to be bathed with the following mixture: Take Powers of Amber, fourteen ounces: Powers of Sassafras, Rosemary, Juniper-berries, Sage, Sa∣vin, of each two ounces: Powers of Oranges, Limons, Caraways, Rhodium, of each an ounce: mix and bath the Vertebrae of the Neck and Back bone, with all other parts affected with the Convulsion: by the use of this at the very first time she found comfort; and in two or three days time, had plain demonstrations of a Cure; besides it was a neat, cleanly Medicine, not daub∣ing nauseous and loathsom, as were the for¦mer and no sooner was it laid on or used, but the part was immediately dry, as if nothing had been applyed, which was a great satisfaction to this our nice and curious Patient: she was bathed therewith Morning and Evening for a∣bout sixteen days time: afterward for about three weeks, she Was only bathed at night go∣ing to bed; at the end of which time she found her self to be perfectly cured.

12. But that we may not let the industrious Artist know things by halves; he is to under∣stand, that during this whole Cure, in the in∣tervalls of Purging, Specifick Antispasmaticks, and Corroboratives were continually taken by the Patient: every morning fasting this: Take powers of Rosemary, of Sage, and Penny-royal, of each three ounces: Aqua Caelestis, four oun∣ces: syrup of Limons: twelve ounces: mix them: dose one spoonful in a glass of Sack: Eve∣ry night going to bed this following Electuary was given: Take Electuarium ad Tabidos, six ounces: Conserves of Betony and Rosemary flowers, of each one ounce: filings of Elks hoofs, and of Ox horns, of each six drams: powers of Wormwood, two ounces: mix them: dose the quantity of a Nutmeg, drinking after it a little glass of Sack or other wine. ThiS di∣sease was stubborn and rebellious, and did not easily admit of remedy, yet by the con∣stant use of the aforementioned powerful Me∣dicaments was at length conquered and over∣come.

XVII. Convulsions arising from the pricking of a Nerve or Tendon.

1. A lusty young Man being let blood by an unskilful or carless Chyrurgian, had the Nerve or Tendon lying under prickt by the point of the Lancet, whereupon the Man pre∣sently fell into Convulsions fits. Upon which three or four other Chyrurgians were present∣ly called: some were for cutting the Nerve asunder, others were for laying it bare and so making application.

2. Objections were raised against both ways: by the first it was objected, The use of the mem∣ber would be lost for ever: by the second, That the Patient would be put to a great deal more of exquisite Pain whereby th Convulsion might be encreased, and the sick put in manifest dan∣ger.

3. While all these great men were in con∣sultation what to do; a Chyrurgians boy there also present, (a bold youth) clapt to the bleeding wound a peice of Spunge dipt in Oyl of Turpentine, and so bound it up, withall giv∣ing the Man a little a Aqua Mirabilis, out of a bottle which he had in his pocket, then cau∣sed some servants there present to lay him down upon a bed: by this means the Convul∣sions was retrieved, and the wound and pun∣cture of the Nerve, healed and consolidated, so that there was no need of a second applicati∣on, or use of any other Medicament. See what great things are somtime•• done suddenly and unexpected, and that by small and trifling reme∣dies. The boy, only did this extemporanee or up∣on the spot, whilst wiser heads than his (as he thought) were consulting upon more mature and fit applications.

4. Once since, I was occasionally in the Country, where I saw such a like accident done by a Chyrurgian, letting a Man blood in the Arm; I immediatly, ordered the same ap∣plication, gave the man a little Aqua Celestis, and caused him to be laid down upon a bed to repose himself; by which alone application, the Man was retrieved out of the Convulsion, and restored to his perfect health, without the least hurt to the use of his Arm.

XVIII. A Convulsion which seized a Man, after great Repletion.

1. A Man about fourty five years of age, being invited to Supper, drunk liberally and plentifully; insomuch, that by his large eating and drinking he plainly surfeited himself: af∣ter Supper was over, he began to be very sick, and desired to vomit, but could not: his sick∣ness grew extream upon him, so that, forth∣with he was forced to be conveyed home; where he was got to bed; but he had not been in it long before his sickness came to that extremi∣ty, that life was dispaired of; the Man all this while not Vomiting, and his sickness still in∣creasing, a violent Feaver seized upon him, with putrefaction of the humors, and about midnight by reason of the vehemency of his sickness and Feaver, he was taken with Con∣vulsion fits.

2. Upon this a Doctor was sent for, who prescribed, to the sick a rich Cordiall, which was made and given him, but without any ef∣fect, the Man's sickness still increasing upon him, and upon extremities of disaffections at heart, violent Convulsions: after this manner he lay till morning, taking at times the Do∣ctors Cordial, and suffering at fits those Con∣vulsions: he had eight Paroxysms before ten a clock the next day.

3. This not doing, some of his Friends sent for me; to whom they gave the former rela∣tion: by which, I preceived that Surfeiting was the original cause of his distemper, a Con∣vulsion being present, through repletion: The other man being discharged, I attempted to do the best I could: I gave him first a good Vomit, which was this: Take Infusion of Cro∣cus metallorum, an ounce: Salt of Vitriol, half a dram: mix them for a dose: He took this, and it gave seven Vomits, and three stools: by which the poor sick Creature had a very great relief: almost all the Supper he eat came up, some partundigested; other part of it cor∣rupted and putrefied with a noysom stink.

4. After the Vomit I caused him to take this Corroborative: Take Aqua Caelestis, three ounces: Bawm-water, two ounces: syrup of Li∣mons, an ounce an half: syrup of Meconium, half an ounce: mix them; of which he took now and than a spoonful. In the mean sea∣son, I caused his Fore head, Temples, and Nostrills, to be bathed with the powers of Am∣ber, as also the Back-bone, from the nape of the Neck to the Os Coccigis, and to be duly repeated morning and evening, for three or four days together, by which he found very much Good.

5. But by reason the Surfeit was so great as to cause Convulsions, and by reason I feared his Stomach was very foul, and not yet suf∣ficiently cleansed with the first Vomit, I cau∣sed the same to be repeated the very next day: and that indeed, went not without its desired effects: for it brought up a much greater quan∣tity of filthyness and corruption than the for∣mer, giving the Patient about six or seven Vo∣mits and four Stools: and, its very probable, that this might have a greater and better ef∣fect than the first, by reason the first might loosen a great part of that filthy matter, which the latter brought away; and which without a primary dose could never have been evacu∣ated: The third day following the same dose was again repeated (although 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the second Vomit, the sick had no more Convulsions fits:) upon the fourth day after that, I gave him a dose of my Family pills, which wrought ad∣mirably upon him, and gave him twelve stools, after which I concluded his body to be very well cleansed, and throughly freed from that pe∣rilous Surfeit.

6. However because he was mightily weak∣ned, not only by the force of the Convulsion, fits (which followed him close for the time) but also by means of these strong Vomits, and much purging, I thought to prescribe somthing to him, which might strengthen and corro∣borate his weakned body, and confirm the tone of the Stomach, so much debilitated both with the corrupt matter therein contained, and the operation of the exhibited purges: Take Electuarium ad Tabidos, Venice Treacle, of each two ounces: Conserve of Barberries, four ounces: mix, and with syrup of Quinces, a sufficient quantity make a Lohoch to be licked of,

now and then. Also in the morning fasting, half an hour before Dinner, and as long before Supper, I ordered the Powers of Mint, to be taken forty or fifty drops at a time, in a small gl••ss of Sack, or other Wine. These things he took for about eight days: at the end of which time, for a farther confirmation of his Health, (which now was present) I advised him to take every Morning and Night two spoonfulls or three, of the following mixture: Take of the best Cinnamon water, a quart: sy∣rup of Quinces, syrup of Limons, of each eight ounces: mix them together and keep them for use, to be taken, as aforesaid.

7. It is wonderful to me, that great and learned men, and Doctors of Physick, should be so much mistaken, as to prescribe a strong Cordial in Convulsions proceeding from Re∣pletion, and great Surfeit; when common sense might have told one, that there was a hurt of the Ventricle, and of its Functions or faculties, by means of the abundance of mat∣ter contained within the same: but this is oft the fate of the poor Patient, when he falls in∣to the Claws or Hands of an unconsidering man: Had I taken the same course, and fol∣lowed the ••ame prescription, it might have been dooms-day in the after-noon, before I had seen the recovery of this miserable Soul: from such Doctors, let all Sick people cry Libera nos Domine.

XIX. Convulsion fits in a middle aged Wo∣man, arising from Pains of the Stone.

1. This person having been long afflicted with the Stone, pains in her Back and Reins; and with the Cholick, as she imagined, was at length so exceedingly toutored, as that up∣on the access of any Paroxysm she would fall into Convulsion fits, which fits would also be repeated several times upon any small occasi∣on, in the intermissions of the Nephritick Do∣lor.

2. Her Husband sent for me, in one of her extremities, and requested my help: I saw that the Sick was weak, and that her Disease had made a deep impression upon her; that it was dubious whether she would recover or no; and that without speedy relief she must inevi∣tably perish; lastly, that the abating of the symptoms, and aleviating of her pains, was first to be attempted, before wee meddled with the Cause, because they threatned the life of the sick most.

3. Upon these considerations, I first (be∣cause her body was bound) exhibited this fol∣lowing Clyster: Take decoctum Commune, a pint: Oyl Olive, Honey, Infusion of Crocus metalorum, of each two ounces: mix them, and let it be put up warm: this gave her some ease, loosned her body, and gave her four or five stools.

4. After the Exhibition of the Clyster, I gave her three grains of my Laudanum, with a lit∣tle glass of Sack, which gave her mighty re∣lief; and this I ordered to be continued for several Nights together; she took it with good success for about a month, with repetition of the Clyster aforesaid every third or fourth day.

5. But by reason of the Extremities of her pains, and the many repeated Convulsions, she complained of a mighty weakness all over her, especially in her Back, Loyns, and Joynts, so that I concluded, there was a great hurt of the Genus Nervosum; the weakness was so great that she could not stand alone, nor scarce∣ly turn her in her bed: I therefore caused her to be well bathed, Morning and Night, with the following mixture: Take powers of Am∣ber, eight ounces: powers of Limoms, and Oranges, of each four ounces: powers of Sweet-marjoram; two ounces: mix them, and keep them in a glass close stopt for use.

6. With that mixture her Head, Temples, nape of the Neck, and all along down the Back bone, to the Os coccigis with the whole Abdo∣men or Belly, and all her joynts, both in Arms and Legs; were exceedingly well bathed, and this bathing was continued for about twelve or fourteen days, so that her Convulsion fits so totally vanished, as that she had no more of them: And that we might Corroborate her inward parts also, I ordered her to take al∣ternatim, a spoonful of the Spirit of Saffron, and the like quantity of powers of Cinnamon,

that is to say, one day Spirit of Saffron, and the next day, the Powers of Cinnamon: for that Nature is delighted with Variety as well as Congruity, and although one of those Cor∣dialls might have been enough; for the strength∣ning and encouraging of her, and for chear∣ing of the Spirits, yet the Stomach is delight∣ed with diversity of Medicaments of the same kind, which is a remark worthy the noting: for if the Stomach refuses what is given, and its tone be weakened, by the unity and likeness or sameness of things, all other Medicaments, destinated against the Disease, are certainly given in vain.

7. Respit being given to this Our sick Pati∣ent, and in some measure restored from her so great weakness by the Exhibition of Opiats and Cordialls, with the external application of the Powers aforementioned, I ordered the Chyrurgian, R. D. my particular Friend, to make a search for the stone, which he plainly felt, and with dexterous Art, extracted it by Instrument through the Meatus Ʋrinarius: it came forth in two peices, or else there was two stones: about the bigness of large Nutmegs, with some lesser stones, about the bigness of gray Pease, or Cherry-stones.

8. This done for the cleansing of those parts of Sand or Gravel; and prevention for the fu∣ture, the breeding of any more stones, I pre∣scribed her the following Electuary: Take Ve∣nice Treacle, eight ounces: powers of Juniper-beries, two ounces: Elixir of Vitriol, one ounce: Confectio Anodyna, three ounces: mix them: of this she took the quantity of two drams, morning and night, till the whole was exhaust∣ed; at the end of which she seemed to be per∣fectly well; nor did I hear, that she ever com∣plained after: yet this thing is to be especially noted, that during this whole Cure, all her drink was an Infusion of raspings of Lignum Nephriticum, somtimes in white or Rhenish wine, somtimes in pure clear Ale, and som∣times in Hydropiper water; and with almost all her food or meat, I caused her to eat Oyl of sweet Almonds by expression, or pure Oyl Olive, by which the passages and Pores of the Urine were all made slippery, whereby the Ne∣phritick and diuretick Medicaments exhibited, operated with so much the more facility and safety.

XX. Convulsion fits (in a Woman thirty years of Age) joyned with Hysterick fits.

1. This miserable creature for five or six years had heen exceedingly afflicted with those fits, and all things whatsoever that various Phy∣sicians could think of, in order to her Cure, was exhibited with all possible care and circum∣spection, yet without the least hope of remedy; so that being given over to dispair, she resolved to make no more tryal of any other Medica∣ment; moreover she was grown exceeding weak, and her Body pined away, as if she was in a deep Consumption.

2. But some of her Friends knowing of me, gave me an account of her condition, and with∣all, once more perswaded her, to make a proof of my skill, for that they had a strong belief that I (if any one could) might be an Instru∣ment in the hand of God, for restoring her to her desired Health.

3. I first of all gently purg'd her with my Family Pills with Aloes, and repeated the purgation every fifth or six•••• day, for five times; by which means her Courses (which had been stopt for more than two years) were admirably provoked, upon the seeing of which, I ordered the continuation of the same, once a week, for twelve or fourteen weeks together, which she accordingly did, both to her own and my exceeding satisfaction.

4. During all this time, in the intermediate days of Purging; I gave her inwardly the fol∣lowing composition: Take choice Musk in fine pouder, two drams: Salt of Mans skull, a dram and half: Oyl of Peony-seeds, one dram: Salt of Vipers, Amber-grise, in fine pouder, of each half a dram: with choice Venice Trea∣cle, or Our Electuarium ad Tabidos, and oyl of Nutmegs by expression, of each two drams: make a mass: dose half a dram at night going to bed, and to be continued for a month compleat, without intermission, except the evening before the day of purging.

5. Moreover, I ordered her to sit in a sul∣phur

bath, as long as she could bear it, and immediately coming out of it, and, being dryed with cloths, to be extreamly well bath'd with the powers of Amber alone; or with this mixture: Take powers of Amber, eight ounces: powers of Limons, of Oranges, of Rosemary, of each three ounces: mix them, with this her whole body from Head, to Foot was bathed, imme∣diately coming out of the bath, as also morn∣ing and night, at other times, by the use of which things she found an unexpressible good, and in a short time a perfect cure.

6. However by reason she complained of a fullness and heaviness at her Stomach, I re∣solved to give her a Vomit, which I did with extraordinary good Success, with my white Eme∣tick Troches or Lozenges, made of Mercu∣rius Vitae; they gave her six vomits and three stools (viz. half a dram of the Lozenges, which contained about three grains of the Mercurius Vitae) After the taking of this Vomit but once, she became so pleasant and easy, that she thought her self in Heaven.

7. By these examples and many more which, I might hereafter set forth, it is manifest of how great force the Powers of Medicaments are in general, and in particular the Powers of Amber, as also those of Limons, Oranges, Rosemary, Sassafras, &c: for that in a mo∣ment they comfort and restore the whole Ge∣nus Nervosum and that even by External ap∣plication, in which manner of use they do more (in a small quantity) momentarily, than a Cart load of other Medicaments can do though given inwardly: now if they do such great things by bare outward application, what may they do being also inwardly given, especially in all those Diseases where the Cause is more in∣ward? but their operations are not wonderful, if we consider their absolute purity, subtilty, and Volatility, with their Comfortative and mighty penetrative power and force.

XXI. A vehement Cramp in the Calves of both the Legs, and other Parts.

1. A man of about thirty years of Age was much troubled with the Cramp in the Calves of his Legs, somtimes it was in one Leg, som∣times in the other, and somtimes in both; and somtimes it would seize other Parts, as the brawny part of the Arm, under the Chin, &c.

2. The Convulsion would be vehement cau∣sing a Tumor of the Nerves in the middle of the Musculous Part, as big as ones Fist dou∣bled, which in a quarter of an hour or there∣abouts would resolve, and go totally away, yet for the most part leaving a great Soreness and Weakness, and such an exceeding Debility as that he was not able to go for a day or two, or sarcely set his Foot on the Ground.

3. He had tryed many things but without Effect, as well Internals as Externals: and out∣wardly almost all the Galenick hot Oyls and Oyntments had been applyed, but in vain, as aforesaid; and now his Disease increased more and more upon him, in so much, that upon the least Cold, the Cramp would seize him upon those Parts, and with such Violence and Torture, to make him roar and cry vehemently out, as if he had been a killing: and, if in bed he durst not many times thrust his Feet streight down, or put them in a cold Place, or yawn, for fear of a Fit of the Cramp taking hold of him, which for the time afflicted him with that Vehemency, that he hath many times said, He beleived it to exceed the very pangs of Death.

4. At length he made his Complaint to me, and I perceiving it to come absolutely from a cold Cause, caused him to bath the Part very well with the Powers of Amber, twice a day, viz. Morning and Evening, and to continue the use thereof for some few days, to wit, eight or ten, or more; this he did, and in less then fourteen days time was perfectly well, to his great Satisfaction.

5. Another man, much in the same man∣ner afflicted, in the same Parts, and with like Vehemency, as also on both sides of his Neck, was cured by bathing the Parts afflicted with the said same Powers of Amber, Morning and Night, for some few days rubbing the Medicine well in, for about a quarter of an hour at a time: he was so perfectly cured that he had not so much as a Fit thereof, for several years after.

6, After the same manner and with the

same Medicament have I cured more than forty others, that had been a long time afflicted with the Cramp, and could meet with no Remedy; and some of them who had been so often seized therewith, that it had brought upon them such a Debility and Weakness of the Parts, as to render them almost wholly useless: even these, with the use of this only thing, have I so perfectly restored (through the Blessing of God) as their Disease never after returned: nor in the Cure of them, did I give the least of any thing inwardly, nor use any thing outwardly except that only thing; which for its excellency, worth, and certainty of its Operation, I could not be silent in; but com∣municate (from the Giver of all good) so great a Blessing to the World. It is indeed a most Excellent and Admirable Medicine, and as far as any thing can be said to be certain, it may be really pronounced of this Medicament, in the Cure of this Disease.

7. A woman in Child-bed (having lain in about two days) was seized with After-pains, and the Cramp in the middle of her Thigh: The whole Abdomen, as also her Thigh, I cau∣sed to be bathed well with the Powers of Am∣ber, every two hours: This had such Effect that in a quarter of an hour after the Appli∣cation thereof, her After-pains went away, and by the Blessing of God in twenty four hours space, she, was so perfectly freed both from Them, and the Cramp, that they returned no more upon her.

8. And this I was willing to insert here (though out of its proper Place) for the sakes and benefit of all women in Child-bed, who la∣bour under that great Affliction; I have used it to a Multitude of women afflicted with After-pains, and can speak it (in the presence of God) that I never in that Case used it in Vain; and therefore commend the same to all Nur∣ses, Mid-Wives, and Charitable Gentle-wo∣men to keep by them, and have it always in a Readiness for the use of their poor afflicted Neighbours.

9. That these After-pains are nothing but a Cramp or Convulsion of the nervous parts of the Mesentery and Abdomen, being hurt both by over-much straining, and also by Cold taken in, at time of Delivery, I am fully per∣swaded; the Reason and Evidence of which I may more fully prosecute in an other place: however this is manifest, that the same Medi∣cament which not only gives Relief, but also cures the Cramp in other Persons, as suddenly and immediately resolves these After-pains, in Women in Child-bed; and so perfectly takes them away, as to return no more, for that bout.

10. And I remember, I was once called to a Woman who had laboured under those pains for about seven days and nights, without any hope of Cure, (Multitudes of things having been applyed to no purpose, but the Disease rather still getting ground upon them:) she was given up to Despair, and all about her esteemed her to be no better than a dead Wo∣man: when I saw her, her case was so despe∣rate that I could promise nothing: but I cau∣sed her to be liberally bathed over all the Ab∣domen, from the Mucronata or lower part of the Sternon, to the Os Pubis for about half an hour, with the said Powers or Amber, and her Belly to be covered with hot cloaths 〈◊〉〈◊〉 warm as she could endure them: this was repeated every third hour for eight or ten times, and through the Blessing of God, this miserable Creature was saved from the jaws of Death.

XXII. Convulsions arising by Consent from Pains in the Stone.

1. This Man having been for many years afflicted with the Stone and Gravel; at length the Pains became so exquisite as to excite Convulsion-Fits, and that in an extream man∣ner, the man was of a gross or fat Body, and of a long time used no kind of Exercise, but eat well and drank freely, and that a thick kind of foggy Ale, which doubtless left Recremen••s enough in all the principal Passages, from which Causes, without doubt his Disease had its Beginnings.

2. In the first place, by reason of the ful∣ness of the Body, and the great Repletion of humours, I thought fit to purge him, the which I did with my Family-Pills, as being a Medi∣cament

proper and specifick against the Stone it self, and of which I have had Experience in several Persons in that Disease: among the Rest, one Andrew Beech of New-Castle, in a L••tter to me, dated 18th of April 1682. gives this Commendation. Honoured Doctor, I have sold your Family-Pills for divers years, and have often taken of them with good Success. I believe under God, they have been an Instru∣ment of my Preservation for these three or four years last past. But of late especially, I have been troubled with the Stone, and by tak∣ing of your Pills, I have voided many Stones, and some of them, of a prodigious Bigness to come through a mans Yard. These are the Gentlemans own words in his said Letter; however I have a Cloud of other Experiments of the same kind; which enduced me at this time to their Exhibition: I ordered him to take them every third or fourth day, by the use thereof for six or seven times, there was not only a large Evacuation of corrupt, putrid, and evil humours, but also a Production of several small Stones about the Bigness of Wheat-Corns, and some of them somwhat bigger, to the number of Twenty three.

3. In the Int••rvals of Purging, I caused the Reins of his Back, the Pubis and Perinae∣um, to be very well anointed twice a day, with the Blood red Oyl of Scorpions; and inwardly the Powers or Tinctures of Castoreum, from twenty to forty drops, to be given in this fol∣lowing Wine. Take Old Rhenish Wine, two quarts: large Onions extreamly thin sliced, or spread small, six ounces: digest forty eight hours, and keep, it for use. He took four ounces of it at a time, Morning, Noon, and Night, with the Drops of the Powers, and somtimes of the Tincture of Castoreum afore∣said.

4. But by reason, the Convulsions came often, and held him very strongly, we were forced to have recourse to Opiates; amongst which I exhibited at first two grains of my Laudanum, at bed-time, in a glass of Rhenish Wine and Sugar: this was done four times: The fifth time I gave him three grains; and continued that for four other Doses: the ninth Dose I gave him four grains, which I conti∣nued for a week, and once a week increased his Dose a grain, till it came to ten grains, the which Dose I gave him five or six weeks together: By this assiduous use of Laudanum, not only the Pains of the Stone were mightily di∣minished, but also the Convulsion-Fits were wholly abated.

5. However the more absolutely to secure our Patient against these Convulsive-Motions; I caused him to be bathed all over, twice a day with this following Mixture. Take Powers of Amber, Powers of Oranges, of Limons, of Marjoram, of Sage, of Penny-royal, of each three ounces: Powers of Juniper-Berries, of Rue, of Caraways, of Aniseed, of each three ounces: of Rosemary, Sassafras, and of Ca∣storeum, of each one ounce: mix them: with this Mixture he was bathed twice a day from Head to Foot, for ten days, but more especi∣ally the Convulsed Parts, Hereby the Ge∣nus Nervosum was mightily comforted and re∣freshed, and the Cause of the Spasm in some manner discussed.

6. But as it was apparent that the Stone was the prime Cause of this pestiferous Evil, so it was our Care to use powerful Lithontripticks, for this purpose I ordered the four following Medicaments (all of them singular specificks and of great Force in this Disease) to be used by Course.

7. A lithontriptick Liquor. Take Rhe∣nish-Wine, two quarts: Hydropiper-Water, a quart: Large Onions shred small, six ounces: Opium, two ounces: Pouder of Winter-Cher∣ries, one ounce and half: House-Radish Root scraped, Mustard seed bruised, Sal Prunellae, of each one ounce: Salt of Tartar, Volatile Salt of Millepedes, of each six drams: mixt: digest twelve or fourteen days, and express the Liquor, which keep close stopt for use, Dose two ounces.

8. A lithontriptick Pouder. Take Mille∣pedes in pouder, two ounces: Egg-Shells cal∣cined ten days in a Potters Furnace, Winter-Cherries in fine pouder, of each an ounce and half: Sal Prunellae, Opium in subtil pouder, Volatile Salt of Harts Horn, Volatile Sal

Armoniack, Salt of Ʋrine, of each one ounce: Salt of Juniper-Berries, one ounce: mix all in a fine Pouder, and keep in a Silver Box with a good Skrew, to keep it from the Air. Dose from a Scruple to two Scruples Morn∣ing and Evening.

9. A lithontriptick Electuary. Take Ve∣nice Turpentine, four ounces: Opium extract∣ed, Extract of Liquorice, of each two oun∣ces: Liquid Storax, Pouder of Millepedes, of Winter-Cherries, Egg-Shells calcined, Sal Prunellae, of each an ounce: Volatile Salt of Millepedes, Oyl of Juniper-Berries, of each an ounce: mix and make an Electuary; to be kept in a Box with a Skrew. Dose from a Scruple to half a Dram, once a day in a fit Vehicle.

10. A lithontriptick Spirit. Take Rectifi∣ed Spirit of Wine, three pints: Oyls of Sulphur, of Vitriol, and of Salt, of each four ounces: mix the Oyls first together; then mix them with the Spirit of Wine by little and little, till all is put in: shake all well together; digest for three months, then distil in a Glass Alem∣bick or Cucurbit, with a very Gentle and Gra∣dual fire, that the Subtile and Volatile Spirit only may come over, leaving a thick Magma at Bottom, of the Substance of Honey, or Con∣sistence of a soft Extract. In this Distillation you must be cautious your Fire be not too great, for if it be, it will force over all the Mag∣ma or Faeces with the Spirit, and then your Labour will be lost, and all your Work spoil∣ed.

11. This Spirit is of most Subtile and Vo∣latile Parts, and a specifick in all Diseases of the Brain whatsoever, as well as in Diseases of the Reins: It is a Specifick not only against the Stone, whether in the Reins or Bladder, which by its assiduous use it radically dissolves, but most powerfully opens all Obstructions in what part of the Body soever, cures the Ca∣chexia, and Chlorosis, or Green Sickness in Virgins, provokes the Terms, and facilitates the Birth: And as there is no more powerful Remedy against the Stone and Gravel in the Reines, Ureters and Bladder, so no more excellent thing is known for the absolute Cure of old and inveterate Head Achs, Vertigo's, Megrims, Lethargies, Apoplexies, Palsies, Epilepsies, Convulsions, Fits of the Mother, The Gout, and other like Neurotick Diseases: And here, in one singular Medicine, we found a compleat Remedy for the complex Malady of this our distressed and miserable Patient.

12. These four last Medicaments were taken alternatim, or by Course, one after another for Variety sake, for about three Months time: at the end of that time he only took of the Spi∣rit, Morning Noon and Night, from twenty to forty drops, in Beer, Ale, or Wine, as himself liked best, and he continued the use of it for about half a year longer, at what time he found himself perfectly well and free from all his Di∣stempers, as well that of the Stone, as that other its Concomitant the Convulsive Fits.

13. Now 'tis to be no••ed, that this man had been formerly searched by a Scotch man, who upon the Gripe, declared, He found a large Stone, as big as a Hens egg or bigger, whose Opinion it was (and it is the Opinion of most learned men,) that he could not be cured without cut∣ting: but the Dreadfulness of the Operation making him to decline that kind of help, he en∣dured his Misery so long, till he fell 〈◊〉〈◊〉 C••••¦vulsive-Fits by the Extremity thereof. He was above threescore years of age, by his own Rela∣tion, but a strong lusty man, at what time I un∣dertook him: though I must ingeniously con∣fess, that I was forced upon the Tryal, and undertook him without any heart or hope of Cure: but by reason the things I exhibited gave him Ease; the sick himself encouraged me to go on, which set me upon the study and search after such things as might most probably do him good: I proceeded on, according as I have before related, and in about eleven months time restored my Patient to perfect Health.

14. Now whereas he might possibly receive Benefit by all the things which were given him; yet that which (I conceive) perfected the Cure, was this Our Lithontriptick Spirit; which I believe did really and absolutely dissolve the said Stone in the Bladder; not that I ever made any after-search (which I have almost a thousand times since repented the neglect of)

but beause he lived several years after free from any of those kind of pains, or the least ob∣struction or stoppage of his water. In the sixty seventh year of his Age, being invited to a Feast, he eat too liberally of somthing there which pleased him, whereby being surfeited, he fell into a vehement burning Feaver, which put a period to his days.

15. After the Cure of the aforesaid Person, I have with happy Success, used the same Me∣thod (with very little Variation) in the Cure of several others afflicted with Convulsions ari∣sing from Nephritick and Lithontriptick Do∣lors: but as in the former, so also in them, I do attribute the Cure chiefly to the Virtue of the aforesaid Lithontriptick and Antispasmatick or Antepileptick Spirit, whose mighty Power and Force, and singular Excellency is not to be explicated by me in many words, but rather requires the more serious Contemplations of industrious Physicians, the truly legitimate Sons of Art.

XXIII. Convulsions, arising from an Ʋlcer in the Ventricle.

1. A young Man by too immeasurable eat∣ing of sower Limons without Sugar, created an Ulcer in the Stomach, the which upon eating, commonly excited such extream Pains as put the Sick into Convulsions; which fits were often repeated, six or seven times, in the space of four or five hours.

2. He consulted Physicians, to whom he only complained of a pain at his Stomach, which they not conceiving to be ulcerated, gave him hot and biting things, and such as were proper Sto∣maticks in a cold Cause; from whence in stead of receiving of Benefit, the pain was extream∣ly exasperated, and the Convulsive fits strength∣ned, so that he began to dispair of ever meet∣ing with a Cure.

3. Among the number of the rest, a certain Woman Emperick, gave him Tinctura of Car∣damoms, and grains of Paradice, drawn as she said with Cinnamon water; but such was the event thereof, that such vehement Convulsions were excited, that at length the Patient seemed to dye or rather swoon away, which put the by-standers into a great amazement.

4. Upon this I was sent for, and they gave me a relation of his condition, how that for a∣bove six months he had been afflicted with these Convulsions, and sickness at Heart, and that many things had been tyed, but all in vain; yea rather that he was always very much the worse for every thing that was administrated to him; and that he had even now taken a Cor∣dial and stomatick water (which they shew∣ed me and I tasted of it, being only the Tin∣cture aforesaid, which was very hot) and was fallen into this dreadful fit, accompained with swooning away.

5. After a little consideration, and pondering the condition of the sick in my mind, I conceived it could not be any simple disaffection of the Heart, or matter offending the Stomach in quantity (for that some former Physicians had given him several Vomits for the cleansing thereof:) but rather an ulceration of the Ner∣vous tunicle of the Ventricle; the which opi∣nion I was the more confirmed in, when I un∣derstood, that the beginning of his Disease was from often and too liberal eating of sower Li∣mons without Sugar, which possibly might cause a Convulsion of the parts.

6. Upon this I gave him salt of Vitriol, a scruple at a time, dissolved in fair water, and I gave it him Morning and Evening: I chose such a quantity as might not make him Vomit, but by staying in the Stomach, might strength∣en and heal the same: moreover because I ap∣prehended it to proceed from an acid, I thought good to absorb the said acid humor with some kind of Alkaly; for which pur∣pose, I caused him to take (about ten in the morning, and at four in the afternoon) a dram of the following pouder: Take Terra sigillata, an ounce and half: fine Bole, two drams: Pearl prepared, red Coral prepared, of each a dram: mix and make all into a very fine pou∣der: By the exhibition of these things the Pa∣tient had immediate ease; and in six days time was made perfectly well.

XXIV. Convulsions accompanied with a burning Feaver.

1. I conceive these Convulsions were exci∣ted through a kind of Malignity, not from the force of the Feaver, for as much as they are stired up rather from the effects of cold than of heat: and of this kind are those Convulsions which proceed from Poyson, the biting of Ser∣pents or other venomous Creatures, Wounds made with poysoned weapons, and such like.

2. The Patient that laboured under this af∣fliction was a young Woman, of about twenty years of age: The Feaver was not only accom∣panied with extream heat, but also Malignity, as the Symptoms did demonstrate, she being in many parts very full of purple spots: what∣ever the Feaver, or its appendent symptoms might presage, without doubt the Convulsions were evidence of danger enough, for that they gave a signification of the hurt of the Animal spirits, without which, in this Case the Ge∣nus Nervosum could not well suffer.

3. From the manifestation of these causes, it behoved us to be speedy in the exhibition of proper and fit Medicaments, such as might powerfully resist the Poyson and Malignity of the Disease, as well as repress the exorbitancy of the Feaver: for this purpose, I prescribed this: Take Electuarium ad Tabidos, a dram: salt of Vipers, seven grains: mix them: and give it as a Bolus.

4. About a quarter of an hour after, I cau∣sed the Sick to take a little Treacle-water, with which was mixt half an ounce of the Aqua Bezoartica Langij: these things promoted a powerful Sweat, for almost eight hours. In the time of sweating the Sick was very thirsty, for the quenching of which, I prescribed this following Juleb: Take Wood-sorrel-water, Bawm and Angelica waters, (all simply distilled) of each six ounces: Spirit of Angelica, two ounces; Sal prunellae, two drams: Salt of Wormwood, half a dram: syrup of Limons, enough to make it pleasant: mix them, and give the Sick two or three spoonfuls thereof at a time, as occasion requires.

5. These things thus taken, had a singular good effect; for the great burning heat was abated, and therewith the malignity: how∣ever, to secure the Sick against any more Pa∣roxysms of the Convulsion, I the next day cau∣sed the same dose of the Electuary, and Vo∣latile salt of Vipers to be again exhibited, which produced a second Ephidrotick flood, exceed∣ing the former, but much more pleasant and easy: and in this I permitted the Sick to take now and then the juyce of a Sivile Orange, for her refreshment.

6. The Sweating continued between three and four hours, at which time, I caused the Nurse to lay the Cloths thinner, and by de∣grees to cool her, which was happily perform∣ed in less than an hours time: after which, to comfort and restore her, I caused her often to take of this following mixture: Take juyce of Alkermes, two ounces: syrup of Wood-Sorrel, an ounce and half: syrup of Limons, an ounce: spirit of Saffron, Cinnamon water, of each four ounces: mix them together: of which let the Sick take every two hours a spoonful.

7. These things thus given had so happy an effect as to take away the malignity of the Fea∣ver, so as that no more Convulsions ••••llowed▪ and in less than two days time after, the spots also wholly vanish'd, and by continuing the latter Cordial, she was in four or five days time be∣come pretty well, so as that she could sit up, eat drink, and be pleasant with her Friends; nor afterwards did she relapse: As to her Diet du∣ring this time, it was partly Gruel, partly Mutton-broth, Chicken broth, Mace-Ale, all boyled with Wood-sorrel and Borrage-leaves; but she eat no kind of flesh; till after the se∣venth day.

XXV. Convulsion fits happening to a Wo∣man in Labour, or but newly delivered.

1. This Woman, by reason of her hard La∣bour sell into Convulsion-fits, which after her Delivery followed her very thick, with fainting away and swooning; insomuch as the M••d∣wife, and Women assisting very much dispaired of her life: whereupon it was moved, that I should be sent for.

2. But I being sick, and not able to go, hav∣ing

heard a relation of the Womans condition, sent her the following things: I. The Powers of Amber, which I ordered to bath withall, chiefly the Abdomen and Hypogasters, as al∣so the Pubis, and secret parts, and this to be exceeding well done, as also to moisten a thin flannel in the same, and apply it hot, and so to bind her up, with warm Linnen.

3. Secondly, I prescribed my Gutae Vitae, to be taken twenty drops at a time in a glass of Aqua Bryoniae composita, for by that means the disturbed Archaeus, and troubled Animal spirits would be immediately at rest: this I ordered to be taken but once or twice in all, un∣less, they found that the Convulsions yet cea∣sed not: but they gave her it Morning and Evening, for two days space: By this she found much rest and ease, and through the use there∣of, the Convulsions left her in a very little time:

4. Moreover, by reason of the bathing of the Powers of Amber, she had either, no After-pains or they were so inconsiderable, as not to be much taken notice of, and vanished as it were upon their first approach; such is the admira∣ble ex••••••••••••y and virtue of that precious Medi∣caments.

5. Thirdly, To comfort and refresh her spi∣rits, I ordered this following mixture, to be given her, a spoonful at a time, once ever hour or two: Take strong Cinnamon water, eight ounces: pure spirit of Saffron, four ounces: Powers of Carraways, one ounce: syrup of the juyce of Alkermes, two ounces: mix them, to be given, as aforesaid: This mightily com∣forted her, and so extreamly refreshed and re∣vived her spirits, that by the use thereof with the other things, not only her Pain, the Con∣vulsive motions, but also her fainting and de∣cay of spirit totally left her; so that the Wo∣man quickly growing brisk and chearful, was restored to her perfect Health; and her weak∣ness so much abated that in about nine days time she arose from her Bed, and walked lusti∣ly every day about her House.

Observations from other AUTHORS.

XXVI. Two cured of a Tetanos, by Vale∣scus.

1. He commanded the Sick man to be held upright by four other men, which done he poured twenty four pitchers of Water (I sup∣pose it was warm water; upon him, falling from his Head, upon his inferiour parts.

2. This done he presently placed him be∣fore the fire, and for half an hour anointed him well, to wit from the Neck to the lowest Vertebra of the Hips, as also the Loins and Arms, with Ʋnguentum Dialthaea, Martiatum, and Agrippa, mix with Oyl of Castoreum; after which he gave the Sick a little broth of a Pullet; and he grew well.

3. The same manner of Operation and with the same thing, he cured another of a Tetanos: Valescus, lib. 1. cap. 21.

XXVII. A Convulsion coming from Re∣pletion.

1. The cure of a Cunvulsion, is to be vari∣ed according to the variety of the Convulsive cause, for that which proceeds from repletion, must be otherwise cured, than that which is caused by Inanition: and that which proceeds of pain, otherwise than either of them.

2. For, that which is caused by repletion, is cu∣red by discussing & evacuating Medicines, as by Diet conveniently appointed, by Purging, Bleed∣ing, digestive local Medicines, exercise, Fricti∣ons, Sulphurous baths, and other things appoint∣ed by the prescription of some learned Physi∣cian, which shall oversee the Cure, which may consume the superfluous and Excrementitious humors, that possess the substance of the Nerves, and habit of the body.

3. The Topical remedies, are Oyls, Oynt∣ments, and Liniments, with which the Neck, Back-bone, and all the contracted parts shall be anointed. The Oyls are, Oyls of Foxes, Bays, Camomil, Worms, Turpentine, Costus, and of Castoreum.

4. The Oyntments are, Ʋnguentum Arra∣gon, Agrippae, de Althaea, Martiatum.

5. This may be the form of a Liniment: Take Oyls of Camomil and Bays, of each, two ounces: Oyl of Foxes, one ounce: Oyntments of Marsh-mallows and Martiatum, of each half an ounce: Fox grease, one ounce: Aqua Vitae, an ounce and half: Wax, quantum suffi••it: mix and make a Liniment for use. Or thus: Take Oyls of Worms, of Spike, and of Castor, of each three ounces: Mans grease, one ounce: Sulphur vive, half an ounce: Wax, a sufficient quantity: mix and make a Liniment. Or thus: Take Oynt∣ments of Martiatum and Agrippa, of each three ounces: Oyl of Turpentine, an ounce and half: Oyl of Sage, half an ounce: Aqua Vitae, one ounce: Wax, an ounce and half: mix and make a Liniment.

6. As to the Diet, it ought to be slender, and sudorifick, with the Decoction of Guaja∣cum, because by these remedies, the gross, tough, and viscous excrements, which are in fault, are digested. Paraeus, lib. 9. cap. 10.

XXVIII. The cure of a Convulsion caused by Inanition, or emptiness.

1. A Convulsion proceeding from Inanition, is to be cured by the use of those things which have a natural power to nourish and restore: and therefore there ought to be prescribed a Diet consisting of Meats full of good Juyce and Nutriments, as Broths and Jellies of Capons, Piegons, Veal, and Mutton, boyling therein Vio∣let, and Mallow-leaves.

2. Conserves must be ordained, which may strengthen the debilitated Powers, and humect the habit of the Body; such as are the Con∣serves of Bugloss, Borrage, Violets, and Wa∣ter-Lillies. The following broth will be pro∣fitable: Take Lettice, Bugloss, Purslane, of each an handful: of the four greater cold seeds, of each half an ounce: Barberries, one dram: (half an ounce is better) let them all be boyled with a Chicken, and let the sick take the Broth, every Morning.

3. If thirst is vehement, the following Ju∣lep will be good: Take Rose-water, four oun∣ces: Violet-water, half a pint: white Sugar, four ounces: mix them, and give it by de∣grees.

4. If the sick is bound in his Body, emollient and humecting Clysters are to be exhibited, made of the Decoction of a Sheeps-head and Feet, Mallows, Marsh-mallows, Pellitory of the Wall, Violet-leaves: and other things of like nature with them: Or, that the remedy may the more speedily be made, let the Clyster be composed only of Oyl and Milk.

5. Topick remedies may be made in the form of Liniments and Baths: A Liniment may be made after this manner: Take Oyls of Violets, and sweet Almonds, of each two oun∣ces: Oyls of Lillies, and Earth-worms, of each one ounce: fresh Hogs-lard, three ounces; new wax a sufficient quantity: mix and make a Liniment: with which let the whole spine and part be anointed.

6. The form of an emollient and humecting Bath: Take leaves of Mallows, Althaea, Pa∣rietary, of each six handfuls: seeds of Time, and Fenugreek, of each half a pound: boyl them in spring-water a sufficient quantity, ad∣ding at the end Oyl of Lillys, nine ounces: make a bath: into which let the sick eater, whilst it is moderately warm.

7. When he shall come forth of the Bath▪ let him be dryed with warm Cloths, or rest in his Bed, avoiding Sweat: But if the sick is able to undergo the charge, it will be good to order a bath of Milk, or Oyl alone, or of them equally mixt together: Paraeus, lib. 9. cap. 10.

XXIX. The cure of a Convulsion by Sym∣pathy and Pain, as by the puncture of a Nerve, bite of a venomous Beast, &c.

1. A Convulsion which is caused both by consent of pain, and communication of the affect, is cured by remedies which are con∣trary to the Dolorifick cause. If it proceeds from a Puncture, or venomious bite, the wound must be dilated and enlarged by cutting the Skin, that so the venenate matter may flow forth the more freely, for which purpose also Medicines, which are of a thin, and l••quid c••n∣sistence, but of a dry and digestive faculty, are to be poured in, to call forth and dissolve the Virulency.

2. Of this kind, are Venice Treacle, and Mithridate, which may be dissolved in Aqua Vitae, with a little of some Mercurial Pouder, for this is a noble Antidote, and admirable Alexipharmacum: Also Cupping-glasses and Scarifications will be good.

3. The condition also of all Dolorifick cau∣ses is to be opposed by the application of contrary Remedies; as, if pain by reason of a pricked Nerve or Tendon, shall cause a Convulsion, it must presently be resisted by proper Remedies: as Oyls of Turpentine, or Euphorbium, mixt with Aquae Vitae; and also with other remedies appropriated to the pun∣ctures of the Nerves.

4. If the Pain proceeds from excess of cold, because cold is hurtful to the Brain, the spinal Marrow, and the Nerves, the sick shall be placed in a hot Air, such as that of a Hot-house or Stove: all the spine of his Back and convulsed parts, must be anointed with the hot Liniments above men∣tioned; for that is much better than to expose the Patient suddenly to a very hot fire or warm Bath.

5. In the mean time the Chyrurgian ought to take diligent heed, that as soon as the signs of the Convulsion to come, or at hand, or al∣ready present, do shew themselves, that he put a stick, or some other wooden thing between the Patients Teeth, left they be fast locked up, by the pertinacious contraction of the Jaws; for many in such a Case have bit off their Tongues.

6. For this purpose he ought to be provided of an Instrument called Speculum Oris, which may be dilated and contracted, according to your mind, by means of a Screw. Paraeus, lib. 9. cap. 11.

XXX. A Convulsion in a young Man.

1. A Young Man had a Convulsion, so that he could not bend his Back-bone; by help of this fol∣lowing Medicament he could presently walk nimbly.

2. Take of rank Butter and old Lard, of each three ounces: Bdellum, Ammoniacum, of each half an ounce: Myrrh, Castoreum, of each three draws: Flowers of Staechas and Rosemary, of each one pugil: Nutmegs and Cloves, of each one drachm: a young Kitling or little Cat unbowelled, and striped, and cut in peices: stop the Belly of a Goose with these things, and sew it up and roast it on a Spit, and the first Liquor that drops, cast away, the next save in a Dripping-Pan, half full of Vinegar, to anoint the cramped or convulsed Back. This is a divine Medicine. Riverius, lib. 4. observ. 308.

XXXI. A rare kind of Convulsion.

1. A certain Soldier, by a Bullet out of a piece of Ordnance, was wounded in his right Arm, the Bullet took his whole Arm away, only that part next his Shoulder was left, as much as four Fingers breadth.

2. His Arm being cured and the wound per∣fectly healed up, he was took with a kind of Couvulsion, which drew his Head backwards, towards the right Side; and it frequently agita∣ted his Jaws; so that he was fain to have lin∣nen Cloath always between his Teeth, which ever and anon he was wont to bite and grind with his Teeth.

3. He called many Consultations of Physi∣cians and Chyrurgians; who were all of opi∣nion; That in the extremity of the bone, which was taken away by the Bullet, that there was some sharp Point which pricked some Nerve, and caused this Convulsion; and that therefore the extremity of the bone must be again opened, and diligently made smooth and even.

4. This work being diligently performed did no good, but the Patient was vexed after the same manner, which took from him all hope of Cure.

5. By good Fortune I met him, and he told me his Trouble; it came into my Mind, that some hidden Venom of the Pox; might peradventure cause this accident; And I asked him pre∣sently; whether or no, when he was wounded he had the Pocky Disease upon him, or whe∣ther he ever had any; to which he answered, that a little before he was wounded; he had been troubled with a grievious Gonorrhaea, which notwithstanding had been perfectly cure••••••.

6. This encreased my Conjecture; so that I advised the Patient to try such Medicines as

are given against the Pox; whereunto being very desirous of help, he willingly submitted, premising first universal Purgation and a su∣dorifick Diet-Drink.

7. I rubbed him with mercurial Oyntments; by which he was fluxed; and after the third day of his fluxing was over, those Contractions and Convulsions ceased, and he was never troubled with them again. Riverius Lib. 4. Obs. 468.

XXXII. Convulsions in a Child.

1. A Gentlemans Child, of ten years of age, was taken with such epileptick Convul∣sions, that all the parts of his Body were dread∣fully shaken, and the Fits returned ever and anon, and there was well near no Intermission.

2. In so great a danger, and so importunate a disease; I gave him half a dram of Salt of Vitriol dissolved in Betony-water; whereby Vomiting was presently raised, and the Pa∣tient voided much Flegm, and immediately the Convulsions were stoped.

3. Yet they returned after some hours, but were much shorter and lighter; and therefore a Purgation was given him of Diacarthamum, half an ounce: Syrup of Roses, one ounce: with Betony-water, and this was given about the Evening, because in the Morning he had his Fits. He was purged well in the Night.

4. Afterwards there was given to him Oyl of Amber and Spirit of Vitriol, of each five drops, in Betony-water: his Fits were more light, but the night following they were som∣what more frequent.

5. The next day in the morning we gave him a Potion of Carduus-water, of Scordium-water, of Treacle-water of Bauderon, of each one ounce: of Salt of Carduus, one scruple: Confectio Alkernes, one dram: by help whereof all Convulsions were taken away.

6. But least they should return Bezoardi∣cum Joviale, was twice given him, the quantity of twelve grains in eight hours time: we gave him the Alexipharmical Potion, and the Bezoardicum Joviale, because there was great suspition of Malignity in the Disease, and because the Boy had fifteen days before been troubled with a Quinzy, which Disease was then very epidemical in that City of Nemours, especiall afflicting Children.

7. Whence we may conjecture that the Ma∣lignity remaining after the Disease in the Body of the Child, during the time aforesaid, was suddenly awakened and raised those Con∣vulsions. Riverius Obser. 650.

XXXIII. Convulsions in an antient Man.

1. One of the Senators of Lauginga being about sixty four years old, was taken with the Convulsion, called Tenatos: he could not stir his Neck, he could not becken with his Head, nor turn it backwards, or to either hand, but it was drawn both ways at once with Pain, so as to be held upright: he could not lie along, but sat upright night and day, bending a little for∣ward.

2. This good man was by the Grace of God in four days time cured of this Disease, by these following Inventions. Take syrup of Sena, three ounces: this he drank and was well purged after it.

3. In the Morning he took of my sneezing Pouder, the making whereof is set down.

4. After Purging he used the Morning t•••• vulgar sweating Bath; after he had used this, his whole Neck in the Evening was rubbed with hot Cloaths; especially near his Body.

5. It was afterwards anointed with Line-seed Oyl; and folded and wrapped in hot lin∣nen Cloaths; which being done; in the space of four days he was cured, Martinus Rulan∣dus, Cent, 3. Cure 85.

XXXIV. Convulsions with loss of Memory, and a bad Sight, to which a heavy Sleep or Caros was antecedent.

1. One, aged fifty, living idly in Pleasure, presently after he was married, arising in the Morning, went into the Tavern to write som∣what, and found an Heavin••ss of head, with a Megrim, so strong that he could scarce return home, but being there he was amazed, and goin to sit down, he fell, his Eyes turned, and he faltered in his speech, and vom••ted abun∣dance of Flegm.

2. Some thought it to be an Apoplexy, but when I come and saw that he moved both sides, I denied it be to so; and because he was astoni∣shed only, sate and with his Eyes shut, and Flegm came forth at his Mouth and Nose; and he was without a Feaver, I concluded, that it was a Caros and not a Lethargy.

3. And presently the same day, because he endeavored to vomit, I gave him this follow∣ing Vomit: Take Syrup of Vinegar, Oxymel, Oyl of sweet Almonds, of each one ounce: Wa∣ter of Nuts and Radishes, of each two ounces: he took it and vomited much Flegm.

4. His Temples were anointed with this, Take Oyl of Nutmegs by expression, one dram and half: Oyl of Sage and Marjoram, of each three drops.

5. After this, when he was in bed, I advi∣sed a Clyster; which his Wife refused, there∣fore I gave this Suppository: Take Honey, as much as will make two Suppositories: boyl it, and add Salt, a dram: Pellitory-Roots, and Troches of Alhandal, of each half a dram: make two Suppositories: give one presently, the other at night.

••. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 I commanded a Feather dipt in this Juice to be put into the Nostrils: Take Juice of Rue and Marjoram, of each two drams: Castor, half a Scruple: Vinegar, a dram: mix them: He did this often.

7. This oyntment was for his back, that the matter might be removed from the head, not fearing it should fall upon the Nerves immedi∣ately descending from the Brain; rather choo∣sing a Palsy should follow, than an Apoplexy; being desperate and ready to fall into it: thus, Take Oyl of Castor, Euphorbium, and of Pepper, of each two drams: Oyl of Costus, half an ounce with Wax make a Liniment.

8. Because he slept continually, they yeild∣ed to this Clyster, and he was insensible to re∣fuse it: Take Orris-Roots green, two ounces: Elecampane, Angelica, of each half an ounce: Galangal, Sage, Rue, Betony, Origanum, of each a handful: Rosemary, Stechas, Prim rose flowers, of each a pugil: Bay-Berries, half an ounce: Rocket and Mustard seed, of each two drams: Fennel seed, three drams: Agarick, half an ounce: Spurge-roots, two drams: Bran, a Pugil: make a Decoction; and in a pint of the straining, dissolve Juice of Rue, half an ounce: Juice of Mercury, an ounce: Benedicta Laxativa, Hiera Logadii, of each two drams: Castor, and Troches of Al∣handal, of each half a dram: Honey of Rose∣mary-flowers, Oyl of Rue, of each an ounce: Sal Gem, a dram: make a Clyster.

9. One day he had a Glyster, another a Suppository; they moved him, otherwise, he always stept; except he was raised, and then he took Broth down, when poured in∣to his mouth, and nothing else.

10. I had applyed a Vesicatory to his Neck, but his Wife would not yield to it, therefore I fixed six Cupping-Glasses to his Neck, Shoulders, and Back, with Scarifi∣cation.

11. His Back was still anointed and he had this Water in a Spoon: Take Water of Lilly Convally, Rosemary, Cinnamon, of each one ounce: the Pouder Pleresarchonti∣con, Dianthos, of each half a dram: Castor, half a scruple: Oyl of Marjoram, two drops.

12. A few days after, when he could swal∣low better, to move the matter from the head (I ordered this:) Take Lozenges of Di∣acarthamum of my praescription, two drams: Diagredium, six grains: Syrup of Roses so∣lutive, an ounce: with Cinnamon-Water, make a Potion: he took it, but knew not whether it was Physick or Broth.

13. Being thus purged, he began to be less sleepy, and to take things better, and to know the Standers-by; therefore I purged him a∣gain, thus: Take Orris-roots, half an ounce: Angelica, Master-Wort, Galangal, of each two drams: Marjoram, Sage, Spike, Betony, of each an handful: Rosemary, and Staechas-flowers, of each a pugil: Fennel-seed, two drams: Carraway, a dram: Senna, an ounce and half: Carthamus seeds, an ounce: boyl and in a pint strained being hot, infuse Turbith, three drams: Agarick, half an ounce: Gin∣ger, a dram: Sal Gem, half a dram: let them stand a night, strain and dissolve Sugar,

for three Doses, with two drams of Cinna∣mon: He drank it three days, and was well purged.

14. I applyed this Cap to his Head: Take Orris, Angelica-roots, of each two drams: Marjoram, Rosemary, Staechas-flowers, and Lavender, of each a dram: Coriander-seeds, half a dram: Nutmegs, two drams: Storax, three drams: make a Pouder to be quilted in a Night-Cap.

15. After purging when he could open his Mouth, he took this Gargle: Take Pellitory-roots, an ounce: Angelica, half an ounce: green Orris-roots, two ounces: Staphis acre, two drams; Sage, Rosemary, of each an hand∣ful: Nutmegs, three drams: Cloves, two drams: Pepper, half a dram, boyl them in Wine.

16. He eat in the Morning a Lozeng of Di∣anthos, with a drop of Oyl of Cinnamon: and somtimes this, Take Species-Dianthos, Diagalangal, Pleresarchontic, of each half a dram: Cinnamon, two drams: with Sugar make a Pouder.

17. When all things were better, and he could set up, I purged him with these Pills: Take Pill Cocheae and Aureae, of each a scru∣ple: with Sage-Water, make Pills.

18. These purged well and all things aba∣ted; but while all hoped well, he suddenly fell into Convulsions, but though others feared, I told him, They were not so dangerous or deadly, for the matter fell upon the Nerves; and be∣ing sharpe, caused a Convulsion rather then a Palsy.

19. Another Physitian was sent for, because I was to go out of town, and we applied this to his Pulses: Take Rose-Water, two ounces: Vinegar, half an ounce: Cloves, half a dram: Species Cordiales, a dram: Clouts were wet therein and applyed.

20. Also he had this Julep: Take Julep of Roses, an ounce and half: Cinnamon-Water, an ounce: Borage, Bugloss, Peony and Lilly Convally-Water, Epileptick-Water compound, of each half an ounce: M••nus Christi, six drams: He took it often.

21. He had another Fit but he still used the Julep, and purged again by the Physicians or∣der; in my absence; and had things against the Epilepsy, and his Convulsions came no more.

22. Four weeks after the Disease began, at my return, he walked well, eat, and slept, but he complained of decay of memory and ill sight, that he saw things double, and could not read.

23. I advised thus: a Wine; Take Sage Marjoram, Betony, Worm-wood, of each two drams: Senna, an ounce: Agarick, three drams: Ginger, a dram: Annis and Fennel-seed, of each two drams: Nutmegs, a dram: Orris-roof, half an ounce: Galangal, two drams: beat them for a quart of Wine and Betony-Wa∣ter, three ounces: let him drink it three Morn∣ings.

24. Secondly, Pills: Take Pill. Cochiae, Fae∣tidae, of each half a dram: with Sage-Water make Pills.

25. Thirdly, a Pouder: Take Coriander-seed, Fennel, Annis, Caraway-Consits, of each three drams: Marjoram, half a dram: Ju∣niper-berries, twenty: Cinnamon, half an ounce: Diagalangal, a dram: with Sugar of Roses, make a Pouder; let him take it somtimes in the Morning, and somtim•• in the Evening.

26. Fourthly, an Infusion: Take Aqua Vitae, two ounces and half: Cinnamon Water, an ounce: Sage and Rosemary-Water, of each half an ounce: Ginger, Pepper, Cloves, Cu∣bebs, of each half a dram: Confectio Ana∣cardines, a dram: infuse them hot, strain it; he took a spoonful often in the Morning.

27. Fifthly, he washed his Eyes in the Morn∣ing, with this: Take Fennel-Water, three oun∣ces: Rue and Eye-bright, of each two ounces: Rose-water, an ounce: white Wine, half an ounce: thus he was cured, and his Disease never re∣turned. Platerus. Lib. 1. Page 7.

XXXV. A convulsive Palpitation.

1. A worthy Matron, about the age of forty years, which had many Children, and yet had her Courses two years since, after a Jaundice, felt an involuntary attraction on her left Cheek, which drawed both Lips and Nose, and som∣t••mes the lower Eye-brow on that side, often

coming and twiching, but her Mouth was not much awry, as in a perfect Convulsion of the Mouth when it is drawn aside.

2. All her Face was pustl'd and red, to these two Infirmities she desired Application, and came to me with a great Retinue: I called it a Convulsive Palpitation, as I shewed in my Golden Practice.

3. It must be cured least a Convulsion follow or Palsy, especially when a numness in the Arm or Leg went before.

4. First, general Evacuation by Praepara∣tives, Purges, and Bleeding, being she was Plethorick; and after that Alteratives and pro∣per specifical Remedies.

5. Topicks outwardly to the Cheeks; first this Masticatory: Take Nutmegs, two drams: Pellitory, Angelica, Staves-acre, Mu∣stard seed, of each a dram, Angelica-seed, half a dram: Cubebs, a scruple: Pepper, half a scruple: Mastick, a dram and half with Wax: make Forms to be chewd fasting.

6. Then let her hold this water in her Mouth warm, especially on the left side: Take Pellitory, Angelica, Acorus, Orrice, of each two d••ams: Sage, Marjoram, Time, Ground-pine, Origanum, of each two drams: flowers of Lavender, and Staechas, of each a dram: Nutmegs, Cinnamon, of each an ounce: Fen∣nel, and Carraway-seeds, of each a dram: Rocket-seeds, two drams: pouder and add Sack five pints: distil them.

7. A pillow to lay to the Cheek warm, or to sleep upon: Take Orrice-roots, six drams: Elecampane, Angelica, of each half an ounce: Sage, Betony, Ground-pine, flowers of Me∣lilot, Cammomil, Elder, Roses and Laven∣der, of each a dram: Coriander-seeds, two drams: Gromwel-seeds, an ounce: Carraway, and Fennel seed, of each a dram: Salt, an ounce: beat them and quilt them in a Pil∣low.

8. For her red Face with pustles, let her often lay on this Milk, with a Pencil: Take Straw-berries, not ripe, a pint and half: Goats-milk, four pints: green Dock roots, three ounces: green Purslain, Plantane, of each a handful: red Roses, three pugils: four whites of Eggs, Limons, or Oranges sliced, six; Al∣lum, half an ounce: Vinegar, an ounce: Cam∣phir, a dram: distil them.

9. Take Litharge, an ounce: Ceruse, two drams: Borax, a dram: add Vinegar, four ounces: infuse them; mix a little water with these, and with this anoint the Face: And if any white remain, wash it off in the Morning, with the water mentioned.

10. Apply two Cupping-glasses to the Neck, two to the Shoulders, on each side one, and do the same a month after, let the Issue under her Ear, be closed, because it was trouble∣som: I ordered a good Diet, and a decent use of other things, called non-Naturals. Pla∣terus, lib. 1. page. 137.

XXXVI. A Convulsion happening to a Woman in Child-bed.

1. A Woman in Child-bed, which often had been brought to bed, eight days after Travel, about Noon, was taken with Shiver∣ing, and fell into Convulsions.

2. When I came, she was come to her self, but was astonished, and did not well distinguish things, and by her Pulse, she had a strong Feaver.

3. I prescribed these following things: Take Peonys-seeds, a dram: and bruise them, and make an Emulsion, with an ounce of Julep of Roses and Peony-water, an ounce.

4. Then, Take Julep of Rose Water, an ounce and half: Peony-water, an ounce: small Cinnamon-water, half an ounce: let her take it two Mornings.

5. The third day, the Fit came at the said hour, and Convulsions followed; these ceasing, and the heat increasing, I gave boyled Water, and Syrup of Violets and Limons: And this following Electuary: Take Conserve of Peony-flowers, Bugloss, Violets, Marjoram, Roses, of each half an ounce: Peony-seeds husked, a dram: syrup of Currans, two drams: with sy∣rup of Violets, make an Electuary: Let her take it in the Morning, and drink her Julep of Peony-water.

6. The third day, which was the first of Ja∣nuary, it came at the same time, with Convulsi∣ons, and great weakness and l••ss of strength, the

Julep was repeated, and her Back and Neck anointed with Oyl of sweet Almonds.

7. Because it was two days absent, we doub∣ted it was a Quartan.

8. And because she was very Melancholick, the third day, there was but some signs of a Fea∣ver, but a great pain in the Hip and in the right Groin, for which I gave her this Julep: Take syrup of Violets, Juleps of Roses, of each half an ounce: syrup of Poppies, two drams: Bugloss-water, an ounce and half: Cinnamon water, a dram: she slept well, sweat little, and the pain returned again at Evening; and her Urine was wholly stopped.

9. Therefore, I ordered the part affected to be anointed with two ounces of Aqua Vitae, with a dram of Camphir dissolved in it, the pain abated by it, but the part itched, and was hot.

10. To provoke Urine, she drank Broth made of Pease, a pugil: Asparagus and Parsley-roots, of each an ounce: Melon-seeds, half an ounce: add Butter: at Night she urin'd freely; in which was much filthy, stinking, white slimy matter.

11. The day following, she took an ounce and half of Manna in broth, she purged and made Urine freely.

12. But the pain in her Hip returned, and the Convulsions were feared, therefore she took this draught: Take syrup of Limons, half an ounce: syrup of Poppies, two drams: Rose and Peony-water, of each half an ounce: Cinna∣mon-water, a dram.

13. Outwardly was applyed, Sage-water, two ounces: Aqua Vitae, an ounce and half: Camphir, Opium, of each half a dram: with cloaths to the part.

14. Now the pain went from the Hip, to all the Legg, and the Veins were broken in the thick∣est part of the Thigh without, and they were so painful, that they might not be touched.

15. Hence I gathered, that there was san∣guine and foul melancholick Matter, that had first caused the Feaver, Convulsion and Melan∣choly, and pain in the great Veins and Groins, fallen down.

16. And because she had a pain at Heart, and fainting from the pain, that they thought Death was at the door, being consumed and wanted Milk for her Child, I ordered the Sto∣mach to be anointed with Oyl of Nutmegs, and to Take Julep of Roses, an ounce and half: Cin∣namon-water, half an ounce: She took it often, and good Broths, but she refused all things else.

17. To the Varices or broken Veins, this Cerot was applyed: Take Populeon, two oun∣ces: Mucilage of Fleabane, Thyme and Faenu∣greek-seed, of each one ounce and half: Oyl of Camomil and Bean flower, of each two ounces: with Wax, make a Cerot: She kept it not long, because she could endure nothing to touch her there.

18. I would have made Derivation of the humor by opening a Vein in the Foot, but she was foolish and nice, and would not.

19. Therefore she had three Cupping Glas∣ses with Fire applyed to the Calves of the Legs; after she had held her Feet a while in the Deco∣ction of Camomil-flowers, and Sage in Lie and Wine, by this she had great ease, and therefore the next day the same was done the third time, by which the pain so abated, that she could fit, stand, and afterwards walk, but a long while limping.

20. While these Diseases lasted, there came another, that almost killed her, and her Urine was totally stopped for four days.

21. I gave her these Pills: Take Turpen∣tine, a dram: with Liquorish and Sugar-candy, and Winter-cherry-stones, half a dram: and Diagredium, four grains: she purged so that she was weaker, and but once made water, half of which settled at the bottom like unto slimy matter.

22. After that, I gave this potion: Take Water-cress seed, half a dram: Pelitory-water, an ounce: Julep of Violets, half an ounce: she drank it, and the decoction of Pease, mentioned before: and then there was voided abundance of thick Urine, as before, and after that she never felt any hurt in making of water; so that in the space of a month she was cured by de∣grees. Platerus, lib. 2. page 357.

XXXVII. A Convulsion in a young Wo∣man.

1. My only Daughter, was v••xed with Tor∣tura

oris, or the Convulsion of the Mouth, and was happily cured, as followeth.

2. First, I exhibited these Pills: Take pil. Chochiae and Aureae, of each one dram: make ten Pills. She took five the first day, which gave her seven stools; the next day, with the other five, she had five stools.

3. I fomented the parts with Venice Treacle and Aqua Vitae; to the Neck was used this following Oyntment: Take Ʋnguentum, Mar∣tiatum the greater, one ounce: Oyl of Bays, Petrolaeum, Castoreum and Turpentine, of each half a dram: Oyl of Bricks, half a dram: mix them.

4. By this she had great advantage, her Courses being obstructed, thus I purged her: Take pil. Faetidae, one dram: Castoreum, one dram: Amber, Rhubarb, Agarick, of each one scruple and half: make a mass: she took of this five pills in the morning, of the bigness of Pease; they gave eight stools.

5. The next day she took Aqua Ophthal∣mica, thus made: Take Sarcocol, three drams: Tutia prepared, two drams: Aloes, one dram: white Sugar-candy, one dram and half: Rose-water, fo•••• ounces: mix and let them stand a day, shaking them often. For an Ophthalmia, of which she laboured, dropping, two or three drops there of into her Ey.

6. Her Courses staying, again I gave her the following Sudorifick decoction: Take Lig∣num Vitae, two ounces: Sassafras, half an ounce: Sarsaparilla, one ounce: China, six drams: macerate them for the space of twenty four hours, in fountain water, eight pound: after boyl them to four.

7. After the use of these, the former form of her Mouth and Face, was restored, there was not omitted oyl of Sassafras, which was above all to anoint the Neck.

8. In the begining of April, she went to London, and returning home-wards the 22 of the said month, she caught Cold, and fell into the said Distemper, on the contrary side of the Face.

9. Before it was on the left side, but now no the right, and although she was grievi∣ously afflicted with it, yet by the Blessing of God, she was cured in sixteen days, as fol∣loweth.

10. Take pil. of Amber, half a dram: pil. Aureae, one scruple, make five Pills: She took them when she went to Bed, the same night, her Neck was anointed with Oyl of Sassa∣fras.

11. In the Morning, I gave half a dram of pil. Ruffi, and again used the said Oly with Aqua Vitae, and dropped into her Eye the Op∣thalmick water.

12. The aforesaid Oyl being wanting, I used the following: Take pil. Castorei, Myrrh, Nutmegs, Saffron, of each one scruple: Oyl of Rue, of Bays, Petroleum, Turpentine, of each two drams: Ʋnguentum Martiatum, half an ounce: Oyl of Costus, of Pepper, of each one dram: mix them.

13. But first the Neck was fomented with Aqua Vitae, in which was infused Nutmegs, Cinnamon, Cloves, Pepper.

14. She eat Nutmegs often: to the No∣strils and top of the Head was used the Oyl of Amber.

15. She chewed on the found side, of Pelli∣tory of Spain, and was often purged with the following Pills: Take pil. Fetidae, one scruple: Castoreum pulverised, half a scruple: pil. Ruffi and of Amber, of each one scruple: make pil. number five. And thus was she re∣stored.

16. In the same year she was afflicted with an erratick Feaver: somtimes she was hot, and by and by sweating, again cold, all in the space of half an hour; and thus she was often vexed in a day.

17. Thus I purged her: Take the roots of Parsly, Fennel, of each half an handful: El∣der-bark, two handfuls: Vulgar Orris roots, of Madder, of each one handful: Sparagus roots, two handfuls: boyl them in a sufficient quantity of water to six pints, to the straining add Rhubarb, Agarick, of each half an ounce: Senna, six ounces: Mechoacan, two ounces: Calamus, Aromaticus, one ounce: Annis-seeds, one ounce: Cinnamon, half an ounce: infuse them in a Vessel well stopt, according to art: strain it again, and to the straining add Sugar

sufficient to make, a syrup: of this take four ounces; Rhubarb, infused in five ounces of Cichory water, two drams: mix them and give seven spoonfulls ever day fasting; it gave seven or eight stools without pain.

18. Take Sarsaparilla, one ounce: Sarsafras, two drams: Guajacum, one ounce: Liquorish, half an ounce: Leaves of Succory, Sage, Rose∣mary, of each half a handful: boyl them in ten pints of water till half be wasted: of which she took a draught hot in the Morning.

19. The following was used to anoint the Back-bone: Take Gum, Galbanum, Bdellium, dis∣solved in Aqua Vitae, of each half an ounce: Ben∣jamin, one ounce: Liquid storax, one dram: the leaves of Rue, Ground-pine, the flowers of Lavender and Staechas, of each two drams: the roots of Costus, half an ounce: Castoreum, one scruple: infuse, mix and pulverise them in Aqua Vitae: It is to be infused in some hot places for some days.

20. Before it was used, the Back-bone was rubbed, an hour after it was used, all the symptoms remitted daily, till she was well. Thus was she delivered from Death, and deadly Diseases, and was well for many years. Hall, upon English bodyes, Cent. 1. Obser. 36.

XXXVIII. A Convulsion in a Lady with Child.

1. My Lady Rouse being in the eight month of Child-bearing, was afflicted with Convul∣sions of the Mouth, very ill favoured, and she was twenty eight years.

2. Take a sufficient quantity of Rosemary-ashes; make a Lye with white-Wine, with which the afflicted part was fomented with four fold double Linnen.

3. Afterwards was used the Oyntment with the Oyls mentioned in the former Section.

4. There was held in her Mouth Rose-water sharpned with Oyl of Vitriol. And she was cured, as in the foresaid Observation. Hall upon English bodyes, Cent. 1. Observ. 93.

XXXIX. A Convulsion in a young Mai∣den.

1. A young Gentlewoman of Stratford, a∣bout the age of thirteen, two years before this she had her Lunar evacuations sufficiently, they beginning to flow abundantly in the eleventh year of her age; but now they were stoped, upon which she felt a light Convulsion in the right Eye, as though her Eye was pulled inward, but presently it would be gon, afterwards both Eyes did suffer with great Pain of the Head.

2. For which I administred at Bed-time, pil. Cephalicae Fernelii, half a dram: by which she had three stools, the next day, they were repeated.

3. Then she became cruelly vexed with the Mother, continuing in the fit for nine hours, with some light intervals of ease, from which she was delivered by the following Medi∣cines.

4. She had a fume of Horse-hoofs: there was also given Aqua Hysterica, now called the compound water of Briony: dose three spoon∣fulls, by Intervals as she could take it.

5. I applied Emplastrum Hystericum below the Navel. Lastly, I appointed the following Oyntment to anoint the inner part of the Ma∣trix: Take Musk, four grains: Nutmegs, one scruple: Oyl of Lillies, half an ounce-mix them: By this it returned to its place.

6. For a fume, she had the following used to the nose: Take Castoreum, Galbanum, dissolved in Vinegar, of each half an ounce: Sulphur; one ounce: Assa Faetida, one dram: make Tro∣ches, with Oyl of Castoreum.

7. Take Pills of Peony of Ground-pine, of each two scruples: Oyl of Sage and Wall flowers, five drops: make Pills, number ten; three of these were given her at bed-time, to which was added Extractum Hypericum, two scru∣ples: by these she had five or six stools.

8. The following day she had another Fit, but less; but by the, aforsaid Fame and Oynt∣ment she was well amended.

9. Inwardly were given two spoonfuls of compound Water of Briony; at night she too•• two of the aforesaid Pills; coming to her in the Morning I found her eased of the pain of her head and stomack.

10. The eleventh of February she was gent∣ly afflicted with the Mother, and a light Fea∣ver,

to prevent which I gave Extractum Hy∣stericum, two drams: with Aqua Hysterica, a sufficient quantity: make ten Pills; she took one in the Morning fasting, and so she became well.

11. March the 28th, she fell again into the Mother, with Convulsion of the Eyes, the said Convulsion having grieved her two days before she was afflicted with the Mother.

12. Take Pills of Peony, Ground-Pine, Hi∣era, Agarick, of each two scruples: Pills of Amber. Ruffi, of each one drams: Extract∣um Hystericum, two drams: with Aqua Hyste∣rica make a Mass: of this there were made five of a dram covered with Gold, and of these she took three at bed-time. By these she was delivered. Hall upon Englsh Bodies, Cent. 2. Obser. 44.

XL. A Convulsion in a Woman.

1. A Woman of Stratsord was suddenly ta∣ken with Convulsion of Face and Eyes, loss of Speech, her Matrix carried from its proper place, and so cast down; she looked like the very Image of Death, somtimes vehemently opening an•• ••••sting her Eyes hither and thither: was cured as followeth.

2. Take Castor, one dram: Juice of Rue, a spoonful: Sage-Water, two ounces: Syrup of Mugwort, one ounce: She was constrained to take it.

3. To her Nose were applyed stinking things: within the space of few minutes she both speak and stood up.

4. The next day this: Take Species Hiera, with Agarick, half a dram: pil. Faetidae, Peony, of each one scruple: the Feculae of Briony; Dia∣grydium, of each six grains: make five Pills. They were taken in the Morning with care.

5. Afterwards: Take Briony root, three drams: Senna, half an ounce: Ginger, half a scruple: Cinnamon, one dram: Sugar, one ounce: infuse them for a night in hot Whey, one pound and half: of this infusion was taken five ounces: for several days together; with which the Cure was perfected. Hall, upon English bodyes, Cent. 2. Observ. 57.

XLI. A Convulsion, with flux of the He∣morrhoides, Feaver, &c.

1. Thou, O Lord, which hast the power of Life and Death, and drawest from the gates of Death; I confess without any Act or counsel of Man, but only from thy goodness and Cle∣mency, thou hast saved me from the bitter and grievious symptoms of a deadly Feaver, beyond the Expectation of all about me.

2. Restoaring Me, as it were, from the ve∣ry Jaws of Death, to former Health, for which I praise thy name, O most Merciful God, and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying thee to give me a most thankful Heart for this great Favour, for which I have cause to Admire thee.

3. About the fifty seventh year of my age, from August, 27. 1632. to September, 29. I was much debilitated wich art immoderate flux of the Hemorrhodes; yet, daily was I neces∣siated to go to several places to Patients.

4. A hardness being contracted by riding, the flux was stayed for fourteen days; after that, I fell into a most cruel torture of my Teeth, and then into a deadly burning Fea∣ver, which then raged very much, killing al∣most, all that it did Infect.

5. For which I used the following method, which by the help of God succeeded, first, I purged, thus: Take Rhubarb infused, one dram: (it was infused in three ounces of some proper water:) syrup of Diaireos, one ounce: Electu∣ary of juyce of Roses, three drams: these gave four stools.

6. Afterwards, I used decoction of Harts-horn, and so the Disease was almost cast out by Urine, it flowed vrey much for four days space, that I was not only much emaciated, but also weakned, so that I could not move my self in my Bed without help.

7. I also had Convulsion of the Mouth and Eyes, then was a Pigeon-cut open alive, and applied to my Feet, to draw down the Va∣pours: For I was often afflicted with a light Dilirium.

8. Then my Wife sent for two Physicians; I had used a Clyster with Emollient herbs and an

Electuary Diacatholicon and Lenitivum; the Physicians my Friends, prescribed the follow∣ing, of which I swallowed the quantity of a Nutmeg, twice a day: Take Electuary of Gems hot, two drams: Species Plerisarconticon, one dram: Lozenges of Sugar, pearled, one ounce: Conserve of Bugloss and Violets, of each two ounces: syrup of Wood-sorrel, an ounce: syrup of Violets, half an ounce: Li∣mons, one ounce: Oyl of Vitriol, six drops: make an Electuary.

9. The twenty seventh of September, I was thus purged: Take Electuarium Lenitivum, one ounce and half: Worm-wood, four ounces: mix them: It gave three stools.

10. At the hour of sleep, I took Dia∣codium; surup of red Poppies, with Diascor∣dium.

11. For the heat of the Back: Take Re∣frigerans Galeni, one ounce and half: Cerat. of Sanders, half an ounce: juice of Housleek, white Wine Vinegar, of each one spoonful: make a soft Oyntment.

12. An Emplaster for the region of the Heart: Take Labdanum, six drams: Sty∣rax Calamitae, half an ounce: species Aro∣matica Rosarum, Musk, four grains: mix them.

13. I was again thus purged: Take syrup of Diairees, one ounce and half: Electuary of the juice of Roses, three drams: Cichory water, a sufficient quantity.

14. It is to be obsserved, before the Physi∣cians came, there were drawn seven ounces of Blood from the Liver-Vein, and three days after were Leaches applied to the Hemor∣rhoides, and thence removed ten ounces.

15. After which, I took the decoction of Harts-horn, thus I was pretty well able to take Meat: Then I used Chalybiate wine with juice of Scurvy-grass, and syrup of Sceletyrbia Fo∣resti, and purged once a week with Pulvis Sanctus; syrup of Diaireos, and infusion of Rhu∣barb.

16. For the pain of the Teeth, I used Ole∣um Ligni Heraclei. After I was troubled with Itching in the Scrotum, which was cured with our decoction of Sarsa, with Antiscorbutick herbs: And so I became perfectly well, prais∣ed be God, Hall, upon English bodyes, Cent. 2. Observ. 60.

XLII. A Convulsion in a young Woman.

1. The Daughter of Alderman Smith, aged about twenty two; from diminution of her Courses and fear, fell into ths Mother, with Convulsion of the Eyes, and darkness of sight, it continuing all the Fit, together with distor∣tion of the Neck, and palpitation of the Heart, as also a Feaver, so that she tossed up and down in her Bed.

2. In the time of her fit, I commanded to distil into her Mouth, three spoonfuls of Hy∣sterick water, afterwards I fumed her with Ʋn∣gula Caballina, which delivered her from her fit.

3. To prevent the fit, was given as followeth: Take Castoreum pulverised, half a dram: pil. Faetidae, one dram: make seven Pills guilded: this purged her well, and delivered her from the symptoms.

4. Lastly: Take pouder of Castoreum, half a dram: Extractum Hystericum, one dram: make nine Pills; of these she took three at bed time, and two in the Morning, by these few remedies she was perfectly cured, and never had it after. Hall, upon English Bodys, Cent. 2. Observ. 63.

XLIII. A Convulsion in another young Gentlewoman.

1. A young Gentlewoman, about the age of twenty, was miserably afflicted with the Mother, Convulsion of the Mouth, as also the Arms and Hands.

2. She had been well purged by expert Physicians, and many other Medicines fruit∣lessly used: Take the Decoction of Briony, with Ʋterin herbs, half a pound: Species Hiera∣picra, two drams: Holand pouder, one dram: make a Clyster; this injected, gave two stools with success.

3. I gave her Hysterick-water, n w called Bryony-water, one ounce: which she vomiting up, I presently exhibited the followi••g: Take Extractum Hystericum, one scruple: Faeculae,

of Briony, half a scruple: make three pills guilded.

4. About half an hour after she had taken them, she vomited them up with some Flegm and acid melancholy, complaining of great heat of her Stomach, as if it were excori∣ated.

5. I presently commanded she should drink half a pint of clear cold water, which she pre∣sently cast up; it was reiterated, and as soon as it was hot in her Stomach, she cast it up again; it was again repeated, and then she retained it with ease.

6. For her Convulsion: Take Ʋnguentum Martiatum, half an ounce: Oyls of Sassafras and Amber, of each five drops: mix them: with this was her Neck anointed:

7. To the Navel, I applied Emplaster of Caranna, in the midst of which was put of Musk and Civet, five grains: in Cotton-wooll.

8. For many days she used a Jelley of Harts-horn, with a little Fecula of Briony and Aron, there was used likewise the Sternutatory of Rulandus.

••. Doing troubled with Fainting, twice in an hour there was given her the following, by which she was wholly delivered: Take Musk, five grains: Cinnamon, Cloves, Nut∣megs, of each one scruple: with Confection of Alkermes: make guilded Pills. Hall, upon English Bodies, Cent. 2. Observ. 71.

XLIV. A Convulsion in a Child: advised by Dr. Willis, 21. June 1666.

1. For the right Honorable the Lord Ro∣bert Brooks his Son, afflicted with Convulsion-fits, these following things were ordered: first, Blister his Neck well, give him of the fol∣lowing pouder as much as will lye on a two-pence, in a spoonful of the Julep, repeating it every six or eight hours; after it, give a spoon∣ful more of the same; let him have of M••lk and Sugar every day; keep him to a thin Diet.

2. The pouder: Take roots and seeds of Male-peony, of each one dram: Pearl prepared, half a a dram: mix and make a pouder of them.

3. The Julep: Take black Chery-water, three ounces: Langius's water against the Falling-sickness, one ounce: syrup of the flowers of Male-peony, and of Coral, of each three drams: mix them for a Julep.

4. June, 29. further directions: Before every change and full, of the Moon, give the Julep and pouder four or five grains, Morn∣ing and Night, four or five days together.

5. At the same time, let the Nurse which suckles it, take Night and Norning a draught of Posset-drink, wherein boyl of Peony seeds and roots, of each one dram: sweet Fennel seeds, two drams: Misleto, half a handful: boyl them in a pint and half of Posset-drink, to serve for twice.

6. In case the Child should have fits again, give the pouder a double quantity, and repeat every eight hours, and give it spirit of Harts-horn, twice in twenty-four hours; one or two drops.

7. At the first appearance of any fit raise a Blister in his Neck, and whilst he continues in∣disposed, give him a Clyster every day, and all that time, let the Nurse be kept to a diet of Gruel, Panado, and thin Broth, boyl in them a bundle of sweet Herbs, viz. Rosemary, Thime, Winter-savory, and Sweet-Marjoram.

8. Let the following Bag be worn about the Childs Neck, and worn constantly, so that it may ly on the mouth of the Stomach: Take Elks claws, roots of male Peony, and its seeds, of each half a dram: make a pouder, and put it into a Sarsenet-bagg.

9. Other directions for the same Child; let a Nurse be got that hath new Milk, and let the Child suck her three or four days.

10. If you see him still subject to fits, and to be heavy and oppressed in the spirits, apply a Leech to each Jugular Vein, take away an ounce of Blood from each side, be careful to stop it presently, for it will be apt to bleed ve∣ry much.

11. Apply the following Cataplasm to the Feet, renew it Morning and Night, lay them on warm: Take Rue, four handfuls: Misleto,

if to be had, half an handful: stamp them very well in a mortar, add to it Bay-salt, half an handful: and as much Soap as a Pullets Egg, and Oyl of Scorpions, so much as to malax it.

12. If the Child should be free from his fits, leave off the Pouder and Julep, but continue the spirit of Harts-horn, giving with it Night and Morning three spoonfuls of the distilled water following; yet every Change and Full of the Moon give the other Medicines.

13. Give his Medicines a prety distance from his Sucking, and especially give him them before, and presently after his sleeping.

14. The distilled water: Take a pint and half of Snails in their shells washed (and dry∣ed with a cloth:) of Misleto, Rue, Penny-royal, Betony, Rosemary, of each two, handfuls; Male peony-roots, four handfuls: chop these together, and put to them six pints of Cyder posset-drink, and distil it in a common still, put first and last together.

15. Having also a Cough, he took of this three spoonfulls, Night and Morning, with Sugar-candy; If he begin to loath his Medicine, leave them off for a while, and take only the pouder and Julep, at the New and Full Moon.

16. Let the Nurse (instead of him) take the distilled water Morning and Night; six or se∣ven spoonfuls; in the first spoonful let her take as much of the next pouder as will lye on a shilling, and the rest after.

17. Take seed of Anis, Caraway, sweet Fen∣nel, of each one ounce: male-Peony roots, six drams: Liquorish, two drams: Sugar-candy, one ounce: make a pouder, or else make the pouder into an Electuary with Lohoch Sanum & Expertum, and take the quantity of a Nut∣meg; This may do the Child as much good for his Cough, as if he took it himself.

18. The Childs diet may be Chicken, &c. Only let him not suck, an hour or two be∣fore nor after. Hall, upon English bodys, Cons. 59.

XLV. A Ccnvulsion arising from green Choler.

1. A certain Student, lean and spare bo∣died, because he pined his Body with watch∣ings, fell into an Itching of his whole Body with burning, and felt a biting heat in the region of his Liver.

2. After two months he was shaken with a direfull Convulsion, which was accompanied with a swooning, coldness of his Hands and Feet, small Pulse, heart-burning, desperation, Convulsion of the Jaws, shortness of Breath, distortion of Eyes, a notable grinding of his Teeth, all which were joined with a vain endea∣vour to Vomit, and argued either that he had taken Poyson, or that he had a worm in his Entrals.

3. Wherefore he drank store of Oyl blood-warm, by help whereof he vomited abundance of eruginous or Verdigreece colour'd Choler, with exceeding great straining, and so was freed from his present oppression; after two months were over, his fiery Liver, being habitual∣ly distempered and apt ro breed a like hu∣mor, raised the same, yea, a more dreadful tragedy.

4. For he raved three whole days together, was speechless, and vomiting up the same kind of humor, by help of Milk he was freed from his fit.

5. The original of this Malady was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into; and it was the unanimous, opinion of all the Physicians, That it did proceed from a hot distemper of his Liver, which bred this perni∣cious and venomous humor.

6. Remedies are provided 〈◊〉〈◊〉 strengthen the Liver, and withal to temper the dryness and as∣swage the Inflamation thereof; a cooling diet and a due order is prescribed in all the six non-natural things.

7. Cooling potions are given him to drink, and like Medicaments ate outwardly applied. Baths of fresh water are injoyned; whey is given qualified with store of cooling sim∣ples.

8. A Vein is opened in the upper and lower part. An Issue is made in his Legg, Leeches are frequently applied to the hemorrhoidal Veins.

9. Lastly; nothing is left unattempted, but all in vain: For every, month the Convulsion returned, attended with cruel symptoms.

10. In conclusion, this Lion-like Disease was conquered by Blood-letting, celebarated in the Salvatella vein of the right Hand, which being sparingly practised every month, he was perfectly cured of his Convulsion. Zacutus Lusitanus, lib. 1. Observ. 40.

XLVI. A Convulsion in a Infant.

1. An Infant, its former Nurse being dead, did suck the Milk of another, whereupon his whole Body was defiled with many Ulcers; Physicians being advised with, said the Milk of this second Nurse was exceeding good, because the Woman had all the signs and qualifications of a good Nurse.

2. I being sent for, was of a contrary mind, because she had her Courses: For this blood being moved, provokes Lust, troubles the Body, heats the humors, pollutes the pure Blood, which is to make Milk, and when the Blood flows in its monthly Course, the Milk is abated, be∣cause the substance of the Milk and the Courses are one and the same.

3. For this cause, ugly colours, loathing of Meats, vomitings, loosness of the Belly, slight Feavers pustles upon the skin, and Ulcers arise: since by the mixture of most filthy Blood, collected for the monthly evacuation, the other Blood which was provided before for the In∣fants Nourishment, doth contract such a pol∣lution, that it puts on the nature of Poison ra∣ther than of Nutriment.

4. Hence Infants have their Epilepsies, Con∣vulsions, shortness of breath, leanness and other grievous maladies, since from the Womb to the Dugs, there is a very great entercourse and sympathy: These things being propounded, in consultation, the other Physicians, recanted their former Judgment and ascented to me.

5. Then was the Infant delivered to another Nurse that was not menstruous, by her to be suckled; hence it came to pass, that for a month together, the Infant having used this new Milk became fatter, and the Ulcers being dryed and covered with Scars, it grew more goodly and recovered its former habit of Body. Zacutus Lusitanus, lib. 1. Observ. 118.

XLVII. A Convulsion arising from Worms.

1. Trincavallus, a most substantial Author, relates, That he had seen Children so troubled with the Worms, that they were convulsed backwards, so that their Heels did almost touch their Heads.

2. When I first read this Authors experi∣ment, I exceedingly wondred at it, hardly believing that the Leggs could be so far bowed backwards as to touch the Head; when being once called to cure the Son of a certain Gold-smith; I find him taken with this kind of Con∣vulsion, which was accompanied with shaking, Anxiety, and a mighty Belly-ach at fits.

3. I was amazed at the strangeness of the Ex∣ample, suspecting that he was poysoned; I gave him Treacle; returning home, I presently cal∣led to mind the story of Trincavallus.

4. Anon after I went to see the Patient, I made him a Clyster of Milk and Sugar, and after that, I gave him a Clyster of Milk A∣loes, and the juyce of Garlick.

5. I gave him six Pills of a dram of Aloes, and a scruple of Dittamnus: with half a scru∣ple of Treacle; being hereby sufficiently pur∣ged, he was never the better.

6. The next day following, I caused him to take three Pills made of Snake-Wood, Aloes, Myrrh, with Juice of Wormwood and Mints, and the Gall of a Bull.

7. After he had taken them, he saints away, and being griped, he voided with his Dung two black round Worms, and beyond hope recove∣red of this grievous Malady. Zacutus Lusi∣tanus, Lib. 2. Observ. 34.

XLVIII. A Convulsion happening in Win∣ter-time.

1. An exceeding bold Dutch-man in the mid∣dle of Winter went into the River, contrary to the advice of his Freinds, and staied therein half an hour, after he came out; his yard was so writhen, and distended by way of Convulsion, that as often as he made water he pist in h••s own Face, unless he held his Hands at his Na∣vel to keep the Urine off.

2. This Disease arising from an external

Cause; viz the Coldness of the Water, was in a months time cured without any Remedies respecting the whole Body.

3. For after a Fomentation made of a De∣coction of Betony, Rue, Sage, Bazil, Peny-royal, Calamints, Staechas and Rosemary, and a Liniment made of Oyl of Aniseeds, of Tur∣pentine, Earth-Worms, of Foxes, Castoreum, Rue, with Aqua vitae and strong Wine, his yard by little and little returned to its former Con∣dition. Zacut. Lusitan. Prax. admir. Lib. 3. Obser. 114.

XLIX. A Convulsion in a young man from drinking Wine.

1. I shall recount a prety-conceited, but yet a mortal, Story: being sent for some years ago, to visit a Master of a Tavern or Inn, as I a∣lighted from my horse, two Scholars came and met me, very ingenious Persons both; they knowing me, were ready enough to speak, yea very talkative; but being benumed in their Legs, elevated in their Mind, not able to speak plain, like Fools and Mad-men, they gave a Bowl full Wine to my Foot-Boy to drink.

2. This being done, one of them being in a Chair, made this merry Discourse, for he was well seen in Humanity: said, Wine is the sweet Milk of Venus, so faith Apuleius in his Gold∣en Ass; it is the Milk of old men, as Avicen∣cia saith; if is a rare Help for such as are sad, melancholick, and fly the Company of Men, for it cheers the Heart of man, according to the Scripture; and since it is exceeding like unto our Nature, it quickly breeds brisk Spirits, with the scarcity whereof those that are troubled, they are wont to be sad and melan∣cholick.

3. Wherefore without the Help of the Ca∣balline Fountain and the double topped or fork∣ed Parnassus, only by the Assistance of Bac∣chus, I am suddenly become a Poet, and ha∣ving drunk off his Cup, thus he sung:

WHen Wine I drink, all Cares do sleep, No Harm I think nought makes me weep. Then drink we Wine, sweet Blood of Grapes, Let's cease to whine, and ioy, like Apes.

4. The other being excellently read in Phi∣losophy, envying his Companion the Poet, began thus to speak: Many Commodities attend himi that loves Wine; for Wine strengthens the Bo∣dy, helps the Digestion, and Distribution of the Humours moves Urine and Sweat, breeds Blood, purifies the Spirits, cherishes and re∣freshes them, is of a very speedy Nutriment, tempers, the Humour, makes men confident, provokes the innate or inbred Heat, causes Fruitfulness in Women, is very like unto us, and friendly to Nature, repairing our decayed Forces, tempering the Labours of old men, the only Help against cold Diseases, it causes Sleep, breaks the Acrimony of bitter Choler, drives away Sorrow, makes the Mind cheer∣ful, resists all Poyson, according to the Mind of all Authors.

5. Lastly, there is no Meat so sweet, because it serves both for Food and Physick: For it exceedingly helps swooning Persons, and fee∣ble; in a word, it makes the Faculties, almost dead, to revive again, especially since with mo∣derate though not with obscure Sweetness, it sends from it self a most fragrant Odour; wherefore prize Wine for its admirable Effects: and for that every four-footed Creature is ex∣treamly delighted therewith, also Serpents themselves: Swine, Crows, Bears, Apes, Ele∣phants, when Occasion is offered do exceedingly covet Wine, as Pliny tells us, Lib. 10. Cap. 72.

6. Whereupon having taken off his Cup, thus he begane to sing with an audible and clear Voice:

WIne in my Crown, all Cares doth drown: I am rich and wise, in mine own Eyes, and Kings despise: When Sprights of Wine, themselves in twine With my sweet Spirit, then I inherit Great Craesus's Wealth; Wit, Valor, Health, And All is mine, by Force of Wine.

7. I being tired out with so many words, suddenly getting out of their hands, who all this while kept me a Prisoner, going up the stairs, I visited my Patient, and enquiring more par∣ticularly concerning his Condition, I spent about half an hour; coming down and devising h•••• to depart from that place without, being seen a∣gain by them; I find my Students as it were

buried in Wine; I feel their Pulses, in one I and one; in the other a very obscure one; the former stept his last Sleep; the latter being taken with a Convulsion, many things being ap∣plied, with much ado recovered.

8. Wherefore true it is that of Hippocrates and Galen, that from Drunkenness proceeds Speechlessness, Convulsion, Apoplexy, Palsy, dead Sleeps, Stupefactions, Falling-Sickness, and other mortal Maladies; but these are not the Faults of Wine simply considered, but of over much Wine. Zacutus Lusitanus, Lib. 3. Obser, 122.

L. A Convulsion in a middle-aged Wo∣man.

1, The Wife of a certain Country-man, about the age of forty, was afflicted with a grievous Convulsion of the hands, together with an intolle∣rable pain in the rest of the Joynts; yet without any Cramp.

2. There was also the beginning of an Epi∣lepsy; and her Urine was pale and muddy; for which Causes, the cure was thus instituted by me: Take of the water of Tile-flowers, six oun∣••••••. of Senna laxative, one dram and half: mix them.

3. As for drink let it be Sage and Hysop-Wine; the third day, after Purgation she did wash in a Decoction of Cammomil, Juniper-Berries, Mugwort; these things being admini∣stred she grew perfectly well within a few days. Martinus Rulandus, Cur. 21. Cent. 7.

LI. A Convulsion in a middle-aged Man.

1. A noble Polander, about the Age of thir∣ty, was miserably afflicted with a Convulsion only in one Arm, Hand, and the Fingers of that Hand; my Counsel was desired towards the subduing of this Distemper.

2. I, becuse he did affirm he was sound in all other parts, and did appear also to be so, did repel or remove this Disease in three weeks time, by the following Bath and Ointment.

3. Take Mallows, Lillies, Daffodil, of each six ounces: Sage-Leaves, three handfuls: Wormwood, Origanum, of each two handfuls: Flowers of Cammomil, Melilot, and Stechas, of each two handfuls and a half: Line-seed, Faenugreek of each one pound; Boyl them all in a sufficient quantity of water for a Bath; in which he is to fit before and after Noon.

4. After he has used the Bath, let the Neck, Back-bone, and all the Places afflicted with the Cramp be anointed with this Ointment: Take Oyl of Violets, three ounces: of Lillies, two oun∣ces: of sweet Almonds, of Mastick, of Roses, of each one ounce: mix them for an Ointment: By these two Remedies only (no other being tryed) he recovered his former Health. Mar∣tinus Rulandus, Cur. 85. Cent. 8.

LII. A Convulsion in a Man grown into years:

1. A certain Husband-man, above four and fifty years of age, did suffer, under one of his Knees, a Retorsion and Contraction, with a pain of the Nerves; insomuch that he was lame and could not stretch out his Foot; he con∣tracted all these Evills by a kick of a Horse; but within a very short while he was cured by the following Medicines, thus prepared.

2. Take the Flowers of Cammomil, Sage, and Juniper-Berries, of each ten handfuls: they were boyled in a sufficient quantity of water for a Bath: and he sat therein Morning and E∣vening.

3. After the Bath, the affected Ham un∣der the Knee was well anointed with this Oint∣ment: Take grease of a Badger and of a Fox, of each three ounces: Oyl of Mastick, two oun∣ces: Oyl of Spike, one ounce: Vinegar, three drams: over a fire they were well: mixed for an Ointment; by the use of which he could, in the space of ten days, stretch out his Knee, Leg, and Foot, and could either stand or walk as he pleased. Rulandus, Cur. 92. Cent. 8.

LIII. A Convulsion of the Hands.

1. A certain Nun had a Contraction of the Nerves of her Hands, which within a few days I restored by the following things: Take for a Purge, the Pounder of Senna laxative, one ounce; Sugar, one ounce: the distilled Water of Carduus Benedictus, one pound and half: they were ma∣cerated a whole night in a warm place for an

Infusion; which being thrice strained, was ta∣ken in the Morning, and two hours before Supper.

2. Take for a sweating-Bath, Rue, Worm∣wood, Penny-royal, Hore-bound, Marjoram, Origanum, Sage, Calamint, Hyssop, Centau∣ry the lesser, of each three handfuls: Juniper-Berries, five handfuls: Flowers of Camomil, four handfuls: Sulphur, one ounce: Salt, three ounces: let them be mixed and boyled in a strong Lye, as much as is fit; in which Stones red hot is to be put: This sick Sister did use the same Morning and Evening.

3. After Evening, bathing, the convulsed hands were anointed with the following Oint∣ment; Take Foxes grease, four ounces: Bad∣gers grease, two ounces: Mastick, three drams: Euphorbium, two drams: Pepper of both sorts, seven drams: choice Wine, one pound and half: make a Decoction to the Consumption of the Wine; these things presently did her good, and made her a sound and healthful Virgin, Ru∣landus, Cur. 54. Cent. 10.

LIV. A Covulsion in a young noble Wo∣man.

1. A noble Woman, about the age of thirty, of tender Constitution and lean in Body; was every Winter wont to be afflicted miserably with a Catarrh or Rheum, flowing upon the Wind-pipe and Lung, with a hoarse Cough and great Spit∣ting, but the last year, great Care and Diligence being used, she was quit of that Evil.

2. After the Winter-solstice, having taken Cold, she was troubled with a great pain of the Head, a tingling of the Ears, giddiness, and a defluction also upon the Eyes, by which it did easily appear, that the Heap of Serum, which was wont before this time to distil into the Breast, was now wholly laid up within the Head and Brain.

3. Besides, an Effect of which was, that as often as she began to sleep she was exceedingly infested with Passions which seem'd Hysterical, to which she never had been obnoxious: For when she was sleepy and closed her Eyes, pre∣sently a Bulk ascending in her Belly, a Choak∣ing in her Throat, Tremblings and Leapings about the Praecordia, were stirred up; which Affections notwithstanding quite ceased, when she was throughly awakened, so that the sick Party was necessitated to abstain, almost altoge∣ther, for many days and nights, from Sleep.

4. Being sent for to this Lady, after she had been sick and weak for many days, I was com∣pelled at length to use gentle Medicines: there∣fore I took care, that Blood should forthwith be drawn from her Foot to four ounces, and every day a Clyster of Milk and Sugar to be administred, by which she was wont to have three or four stools.

5. Besides, I gave her every eighth hour a Dose of the Spirit of Harts horn, in a spoonful of the following Julep: Take of the Waters of Penny-royal, of Walnuts, and Black Cherries, of each three ounces: of Hysterical Water, two ounces: of the Syrup of Clove-gisly-flowers, one ounce and half: of Castor tyed in a little Knot and hang'd in the middle of the Glass, half a dram: of the Pouder of Pearls one scruple: mingle it.

6. I caused with Success a Vesicatory to be put behind the Ears, and a Cataplasm, of the Leaves of Rue and Cuckowpint, with the roots of Briony, Bay-Salt, and black Soap, to be laid to the Soals of her Feet.

7. Somtimes I gave her in the Evening, in a little draught of the praescribed Julep, half an ounce of a Diacodium, to which succeeded a moderate Sleep, without the wonted following Convulsions; which kind of Effects, from O∣piats exhibited in the like Case, I have often experimented.

8. For the quenching her thirst, gave her a Ptisan, with diuretick Ingredients boyled in it: by the use of these she was very much eased in a short time; but that which proved a great Benefit to her, was, that an Impostume in her Ear, breaking of its own accord, poured forth at first a yellow matter; and afterwards, for many days, great plenty of thin Ichor or Ex∣crement, by which Evacuation, the Convulsi∣ons of the Viscera and Praecordia wholly cea∣sing, the Disease was pefectly cured.

9. As to the reason of the aforesaid Sickness, without doubt it seems that these Distempers

were excited by the serous Colluvies, laid up within the bounds of the head: For the tran∣sl••tion of that humor into the head brought at first both the Disease, and the Secretion or Flowing of it out through the Emunctories of the Ear, took away all the Symptoms. Be∣sides, when the morbifick Matter had brought into the Spirits, planted about the beginnings of the Nerves, a Disposition somwhat explosive, they, though being struck as it were with a Madness, were continually troubled, yet so long as leaping back towards the Brain, they obtained a space, in which they might be more freely expanded or stretched forth, they did indeed only more vehemently exercise the Phantasy, and without farther trouble did on∣ly cause Watchings.

10. But when by Sleep, somtimes creeping upon her, the Excursion of the unquiet Spirits were restrained towards the Brain, (which in∣deed necessarily happens, when we sleep, the nervous Liquor within the Pores of the Brain, at that time being plentifully admitted) they tumultuously rushing upon the heads of the wandring Pair and intercostal Nerves, trou∣bled the whole Series of Spirits, flowing within the Passages of these Nerves, and so caused the aforesaid Convu••sions about the Praecordia, Viscera, and Muscles of the Throat.

11. I have known many both Men and Wo∣men sick after this manner, who when they have been troubled with an Head-ach, an Hea∣viness of the hinder part of the head, or a Ver∣tigo, have, while they slept, felt forth-with in their Praecordia, or Viscera, or both together, Perturbations as it were convulsive, which in∣deed happens from the bending downward of the tumultuating Spirits, being reflected from the Brain, upon the beginnings of the Nerves.

12. But that the use of Opiats brought a pleasing sleep to this sick person, without the wonted Convulsions following, the reason was because the Animal spirits, as unquiet and furi∣ous as they were, yet by the intanglement of the narcotick Particles, they were bound as it were in chains, that afterwards, without any resistance they were overcome by sleep. I have indeed very often happily cured most grievous fits of Convulsions, both Asthmatical, and as it were Hysterical, by administring Opiats. Wil∣lis on Convulsive diseases, cap. 5. Observ. 1.

LV. A Convulsion in a young Maiden.

1. A Maid about the sixteenth year of her age, falling from her horse upon a stone, grie∣vously hurt her left Breast, from whence a tu∣mor arose with pain, which symptoms, notwith∣standing by the use of Medicines, at the begin∣ning seem'd to be mitigated, and to be indif∣ferently well, for a long time after.

2. Three years after she having taken cold, and having observed but a bad course of diet, all things began to be exasperated, the hurt part swelling into a bigger bulk troubled her with an acute, and almost continual pain, that the sick Virgin, for the cruel torment, could take no rest for many days and nights, nei∣ther could she suffer the Glandula's of her Breast, being then made more tumid, to be either touched or handled; nor any noise, or shaking to be made in the chamber.

3. When they had applyed fomentations to this tumor which was likely to degenerate in∣to a Cancer; and Cataplasms of Hemlock and Mandrakes and other stupifying and repercus∣sing things, this Gentlewoman began to suffer certain Convulsive affections, which freqently infested her.

4. At first, as often as the pain in her Breast did cruelly torment her, she felt in that place prickings, Convulsions, and contractions, run∣ing about here and there: then presently her Ventricle and Hypochondria, and often the whole Abdomen, were wont to be inflated and very much distented, with an endeavour of belching and vomiting.

5. By and by the same distemper, being lea∣surely translated to the superiour parts, excit∣ed ••nsensibility: to which shortly after, convul∣sive motions succeeded in the whole body, and that so strongly that the sick party could scarce be held by three or four strong men.

6. These kind of fits were at first wandring and only occasionally excited, they would come as often as the pain of her Breast was excited

by some manifest cause: afterwards these Con∣vulsions did more often infest her, and at last be∣came habitual, and periodical, twice in a day, to wit, they were wont to come again constant∣ly at so many set hours after eating.

7. And when after this manner the sick per∣son had been miserably afflicted for six months, she began at length to be troubled and mo∣lested with a Vertiginous Distemper of the Head, exercising her almost continually; for which malady, when a fomentation of Aroma∣tick and Cephalick herbs had been a good while administred to her Head; she became better as to the giddiness, but then she was perpetually infested with a new and admirable symptom, viz. an empty cough, without spit∣ting night or day, unless when she was over∣whelmed with sleep.

8. After this worthy Virgin had tryed with∣out much benefit, divers Medicines and reme∣dies, prescribed by several Physicians, she was at last helped by making use of the most tem∣perate Bath at the Bath, then being presently married, after she had conceived and was brought to bed, she grew well by degrees.

9. If the reasons of the whole Disease and its accidents be enquired into, without doubt the convulsive distemper, was first of all ex∣cited from the tumor or pained place of the Brest; the cause of which was, partly the most sharp sense of Pain, being impressed from its fibres and nervous parts, and partly from the Heterogeneus Copula, being affix∣ed on the spirits inhabiting those fibres and Nerves.

10. For truly it may be suspected, that the most sharp humor impacted in the tumor, which perhaps had in some sort flowed thither, by the passages of the Nerves, being repercussed, by the use of Topicks, had entred the fibres and nervous filaments, or little strings disposed thorough the whole border or neighbour-hood, and so the Heterogeneous, and Explosive Co∣pula, had struck upon the spirits; for the shak∣ing off of which, as often as by Pain they were excited, they entred into convulsive explosions, and together with them, other Spirits flowing within the neighbouring Nerves, by consent of the forms, (as it often happens) were exploded after the same manner.

11. Then the convulsive distemper, when it first had begun in the extremities of the Nerves, being continued through their passages, even to the Head, was wont to cause the insensible∣ness and from thence leaping back upon the whole nervous system, the convulsive moti∣ons, of the limbs and all the members were excited.

12. The fits about the begining of the sick∣ness being excited after this manner; By rea∣son of Pain, from the distempered part, were carried secondarily to the Brain and its appen∣dix: But afterwards when the spirits inhabiting those places, being often explosed, by sympa∣thy, had so loosened and weakned the Pores of the containing parts, that there lay open a passage within the same for all Heterogeneous particles to enter, with the Nervous juice, the convulsive Procatarxis or more remote cause, also increased in the Head.

13. And the spirits inhabiting the Encepha∣lon, being infected with an Heterogenous Co∣pula, they themselves begun the convulsive fit, or at least afforded the first instinct to its as∣sault, which did return for the most part at such set hours after eating, because the mor∣bifick matter was carried in, together with the nervous juice, almost in an equal dimension.

14. In truth, in such cases, where the Convulsion being general doth possess almost all the parts of the whole Nervous system suc∣cessively, we may suspect, that the animal spi∣rits, had contracted an Heterogenous and ex∣pulsive Copula, in the whole nervous stock, which when it is risen, at the set time, to a fullness, incites the spirits themselves at the appointed time in like manner to explosions, and the same explosion being begun some where, is propagated in order to all after the manner of a fiery enkindling.

15. As to that empty Cough, which suc∣ceeding the fomentation of the Head, exercised this sick person almost incessantly for many months, it seems that this symptom should de∣pend altogether from the nervous origine being distempered, and not at all on the st••ffing of the

Lungs, for she did not avoid any thing with the Cough.

16. And, if at any time that force of Cough∣ing was violently restrained, presently she was troubled with the sence of choaking in her Throat: so that it is very likely, the morbifick matter laid up near the nervous origine, being rarifyed and stirred by the fomentation, entred more deeply into the heads of the Nerves, ap∣pointed for the Lungs, and stirred up in their fibres, and filaments, perpetual Convulsions, af∣ter the like manner as when the nervous juice, which waters the fibres and tendons of the Mus∣cles, being made sharp and degenerate, indu∣ces to those parts continual leapings and con∣tractions.

17. Hence when a Convulsion or spasm was stopped, in some branches of the distemper'd Nerves, so as she could not Cough, presently the convulsive motion runing into other branches of the same neighbouring Nerve, stirred up that choaking in the Throat: I will here pro∣pose another example of a Convulsion, arising from the extremitys of the Nerves being af∣fected. Willis, de morbis convulsivis, cap. 6. Observ. 1.

LVI. A Convulsion in an ancient Gentle∣woman.

1. A noble matron, of fifty years of age, after her Courses for about half a year had left her, she began to complain of a pricking pain in her left pap, then afterwards that di∣stemper leaving her, she was ill about the Ven∣tricle, for there arose a hard and schirrous tu∣mor with a sad pain.

2. Upon this came an inflation of the Sto∣mach with difficulty of Respiration, a nau∣seousness and frequent vomiting, then the Di∣sease encreasing, with a more sharp pain run∣ing about here and there she fell into convulsive distempers of the Ventricle.

3. In that place she was almost continually af∣flicted with Convulsions variously runing about, just as if her Ventricle had been torn in peices, besides a constant perturbation of mind with thirst and watchings, and frequent deliquium of spirits and as if she had been just dying; all which symptoms she plainly perceived to arise from that tumor in her Ventricle.

4. They saw that all vomitory, cathartical, antiscorbutical and Hysterical Medicines did her no good, but were rather hurtful and trou∣blesom: she received some benefit by letting Blood by Leehes, and by the use of Asses-milk: And by the long drinking of Spaw-waters she was much eased.

5. The aforesaid symptoms, which com∣monly are ascribed to the Hysterical passion, and the vapours from the Womb, here plainly appear, to have proceeded from a tumor, ari∣sing about the bottom of the Ventricle.

6. For that the Blood of this Gentlewoman, being very hot and Melancholick, when it could be no more purged by her Courses flowing from her, it laid up its recrements, and adust faecu∣lencies, at first in her Brest, and then from a new begining in the membranes of her Stomach, from the tumor there made, sharp and hetero∣geneous particles falling down perpetually, en∣tred the fibres and Nerves, plan••ed round a∣bout, which cleaving continually to the spirits, dwelling in and flowing into those parts, excit∣ed them to frequent explosions, and so made convulsive distempers, in all the neigbouring parts.

7. But the convulsive motions somtimes were more light in that place, hence it appears that the whole nervous stock and the Head it self (as is wont to be in greater Convulsions) had not as yet been touched, with the same distemper, but the disorder of the spirits arising about the parts affected, and from thence tranferr'd by a smaller undulation or waving to the Head, and so only lightly disturbing the spi∣rits, inhabiting it, induced watchings, with a great heat, and perturbation of the phantasy.

8. What we have hitherto discoursed of Con∣vulsions, from the morbifick setling upon either end of the nervous system, will more clearly appear, when we shall hereafter treat parti∣cularly of these chief kinds of Convulsions; viz. the Hysterical, Hypochondriacal and other passions.

9. In the mean time, there will be no need to add a curatory method for this Hypothesis

of Convulsions, arising by reason of the ex∣tremities of the Nerves being affected, because the ways of curing may be better accomoda∣ted, to the passions of this kind, hereafter parti∣cularly to be spoken of.

10. But for the present it behoves us to proceed to the unsolding of the convulsive pas∣sions; whose cause or morbisick matter seems to subsist within the nervous unfoldings.

11. Wee have largely enough in another place discoursed of the nervous foldings, and in their description and use, we have shown that it is very likely the more grievous fits of con∣vulsive motions, begining oftentimes within these parts, are from thence propagated on eve∣ry side, into the neighbouring parts, and not seldom to a great distance.

12. At least that it seems much more pro∣bable, that the Heterogenous and Explosive particles, after that they have overcome the tract of the Head and its medullary appendix, and being more deeply slidden into the chanels of the Nerves, and their passages, together with the juice watering them, do spread their stores within the nervous foldings, as it were in crosse-streets, and by-paths, and there som∣times make their statio••s, until at length, be∣ing more plentifully heaped, they as it were with collected forces, produce the more cruel convulsive Distempers.

13. This I say, appears to be much more probable, than what is commonly said to suppose them vapours, arising from the Womb, Spleen Ventricle, or any other inward part, on which all the fault is easily thrown.

14. For within these soldings, there are spa∣ces large enough for morbifick mines, that the matter may be there at leisure laid up and remain, till it be gathered to a full••ess.

15. But then because we believe, that great plenty of spirits lodge there more than in any other little Cells, the Heterogenous Copula growing to them laies as it were tinder for more grievous explosions, so that the spirits being explosed within these Bod••es, do not on∣ly inflate and dilate them, but elevate and lift them up from their place, even as an house blown up with Gun-pouder, wherefore the parts lying over them, are suddenly lifted up into a tumor, and being loose are drawn vio∣lently hither and thither.

16. That after this manner the more cruel fits of Convulsions about the Praecordia and Viscera are often stirred up, I have found to be true, besides the arguments taken from rea∣son, not long since by my own sight.

17. For, when I oppened the dead Body of a Gentlewoman, who had been exceedingly trou∣bled with (as they say) fits of the Mother, or Hysterical distempers, I found the Womb who∣ly faultless, but the Nerves near the foldings of the Mensentery, as it seem'd, only to be lifted up, and elevated to a bulk, and the mem∣brans of that appeared torn and loosened one from another, as be••ng on every side tumid and loose, as it were blown up into little bubbles, or bladders. Willis, de morbis convulsivis, cap. 6. Observ. 2.

LVII. A Convulsion in a Gentlewoman.

1. There are more considerations of solid reasons, whereby we are induced to believe, that the passions called Hysterical do most of∣ten arise, from the convulsive matter, heaped up within the Mesenterick enfoldings, and by turns explosed: which shall be more clearly manifested where we especially treat of those Diseases.

2. But neither is it less probable, that the Collick pains do very often proceed from a more sharp and irritative matter, contained in the same enfoldings.

3. Besides as the convulsive fits seem to be∣gin from the Spleen, or Ventricle, by reason the beginings of which are Inflations, and very great disturbances of those parts, so it is likely that the nest of the convulsive matter, was hid within the nervous enfoldings, belonging to the Spleen or Ventricle.

4. Also this kind of matter, seems to excite within the Cardiack foldings, most heavy trem∣blings, and passions of the Heart; and within the Pneumonic or Cervical enfoldings, those belonging to the Lungs and Throat, most ter∣rible fits of the Asthma.

5. In our Treatise of the Nerves, we have

related a notable case, of a worthy Gentlewo∣man, in whom a serous matter wonted to di∣stil from the forepart of her Head thorough her left Nostril, falling down behind her Ear; where when the most cruel pain did infest her, Convulsions also and admirable contractions followed, whereby the Jointing or compacti∣on, now of the Brain and the whole Head, seem'd to be pulled downward; now the Throat, praecordia and viscera upwards.

6. Which kind of Convulsions, vexing the parts so opposite, and at such distance, by turns, when they did proceed from one and the same seat of the Disease, planted in the middest, it will be obvious to conceive. That the grieved place, as the origen of either convulsive af∣fection, was the Ganglioform enfoldings, plan∣ted near the Parotidae, or the two chief arteries of the Throat: into which the Nerves both of the wandring pair descending from the Head, are entred, and out of which the shoots do stretch themselves, into the Muscles of the Throat, and Branching into the Praecordia, and Vicera.

7. Further, from the same cause, to wit, the convulsive matter, heaped and by turns ex∣plosed within the Ganglioform enfoldings, we think, and not undeservedly that sense of choak∣ing in the Throat, so often excited in the con∣vulsive fits, did proceed.

8. But there will be a more fit place to speak of this, when we shall particularly handle the convulsive disease, and symptoms: we shall now endeavour to scarch into what remains of the last kind of Convulsions, of which we made mention above; to wit, which relies on the ner∣vous liquor being infected, through its whole mass, with Heterogenious and Explosive par∣ticles: and for that reason irritating the whole processes of the Nerves, and the nervous bo∣dys, into vniversal Spasms or Couvulsions; and those either continual or intermitting. Willis, de morbis Convulsivis. cap. 6. Ob∣serv. 3.

VIII. A Convulsion proceeding from a Feaver.

1. This distemper in this Maid being accom∣panied with a frequent humid Cough was at first thought to be only a Cold: but within few days, this Cough plainly became convulsive: so that whilst she coughed, the Diaphragma being car∣ried upward and with a renewed Sistole, held so long a time that she made a great noise as if about to be suffocated.

2. Then this little Maid, growing more appa∣rently feaverish, complained of thirst and heat, and lay all Night without sleep, with a mighty agitation of her Body, and began to talk idly, as if her Coat had fallen into the water; and when all things grew worse, she began to be tor∣mented with convulsive motions, first in her Limbs, by and by in her Face, and then in her whole Body:

3. The Paroxysms coming by often turns, twice or thrice in an hour, did most grievously trouble her, so that this little wretch within the space of twenty four hours, after the convul∣sive distempers began to grow more grievous, her Animal spirits being almost quite spent, she dyed.

4. Whilst the convulsive fits tormented her, her Pulse was very much disordered and often intermitting, also a frequent vomiting molest∣ed her.

5. Being sent for to visit this Maid, also too late, a little before her Death; when I could contribute nothing to the prolonging of Life, I endeavoured what I could, to find out from her death the knowledg of the aforesaid Di∣sease.

6. Therefore having procured leave to dis∣sect her Body, the reasons and marks of the symptoms chiefly urging in this Feaver, more clearly appeared.

7. Opening therefore first the lower Belly, I found all the Bowels in it sound enough, and well furnisht: the Ventricle although tryed with empty vomiting, contained nothing be∣sides the liquour lately taken in at the Mouth: For neither in it, nor in its Appendix were Worms or sharp humors found, which are wont oftentimes to give Cause to these kind of Con∣vulsions.

8. The small Guts, were in many places mutually involved: to wit, the Convex superfi∣cies

of one part, was thrust into the Concave of another, as into a sheath; and hid far in it, which indeed I judg to have happened, wholly from the convulsive Motions of those Bowels.

9. For whilst by reason of the vehement Convulsion excited from the nervous Origen, the opposite Fibres being drawn together, did work the same Intestine into contrary Motions; it easily happened that one part of the Intestine of the Ilion being carried upwards, might run into the hollowness of the other, being snatched downward.

10, The Thorax being opened, the Flesh of the Lungs appeared very red, and as it were sprinkled with Blood, yea in some places, as if it were livid and almost black, out of the same wherever it was cut there flowed a thin and frothy Matter.

11. Certainly this shewed, that the feaverish Matter, or the serous Impurities of the boyling Blood, being soon impacted in the Lungs, do so stuff up their Pores and Passages, that the Blood it self being in its wonted and free Cir∣culation there stagnated, and being extravasated did excite a certain Inflamation.

12. We found no less clear Track of this so deadly Disease in the head: For the Shell of the Skull being removed, presently the Vessels creeping through the Miningae, were seen to swell very much with Blood, as if almost the whole mass of Blood were gathered together in the head.

13. For the Veins being cut or broken, a∣bout the inwards of the lower and middle Bel∣ly, little Blood flowed forth: Besides those Membranes which cloath the Cerebel, and be∣ing higher spread, divide it from the Brain, being sprinkled in very many places with extra∣vasated Blood, were noted to be of a black-purple Colour; that it was not to be doubted, but the Phlegosis or Inflamation round about excited was the cause of so cruel infesting Con∣vulsions.

14, These Coverings being taken away, the Substance of the Brain was seen to be altoge∣ther moist and waterish abou•• measure with a watery humour: yea its R••ad or Bark being taken off, all the Ventricles were full of a lim∣pid or clear Water, of which kind of very clear Liquor, there was judged to be more than half a pint.

15. From these Appearances, the Patholo∣gy of the aforesaid Feaver is collected easi••y: to wit, in this Sickness as also in many others, the Blood feaverishly growing hot, presently deposes its Recrements, both into the Lungs and into the Brain:

16. Wherefore a serous Colluvies, or wate∣ry Heap, did presently overflow the Consti∣tution of either; then because the Blood being hindred, both here and there, from its due Circulation, it began to grow into a very great Heap, about the Confines of the affected Parts, and at length to stagnate, and to cause as it were a Phlegosis or Inflamation.

17. Hence by reason of the Serum being plentifully heaped up in the Lungs, and baked by the Heat, (the troublesom Cough, with the thick and discoloured Spittle for the most part) came in this Disease, and by reason of the like Affection, excited within the Head the Verti∣go, Swimming, Stupefaction and other cepha∣lick Passions, constantly seized on the sick.

18. Which kind of Distempers in this little Maid, and in her Brother, by reason of the infirm Constitution of the Brain, before in ei∣ther of them, being made more grievious ter∣minated in an Apoplexy.

19. I might easily here propose many other Histories of persons of this Feaver at that time; but from these now recited, the type of the aforesaid Disease, may be sufficiently known.

20. But, because the same Feaver happens almost every year on some predisposed; and perhaps, by reason of an evil Constitution of the year, may hereafter at some time become Epidemical, it will be worth the while to repre∣sent some Method about its Cure.

21. Concerning which, first of all take no∣tice, That in this Feaver no Critical days were to be observed, as in the vulgar continual Fea∣vers: For the Blood as soon as it began to grow hot, poured out a part of the morbifick matter (as yet crude and not overcome, from its Em∣braces) to the Head or Breast.

22. Wherefore, it were vain to expect that

the Blood should suffer the Heterogenous Par∣ticles to be heaped together in its mass to a full∣ness, that from thence a flowring or putting forth arising, at the set Intervals of time, it might thrust the same subtilties out of doors.

23. Yea, rather this growing hot glows not with a great and open burning; but like a Fire covered over with Chips, sends forth a moist smoak or breath, rather than a Flame: But so that from thence, by reason of the ner∣vous juyce, being depraved soon in its disposi∣tion, and not rarely, because of the Lungs being stuffed with the consumptive matter, the con∣vulsive or phthisical or consumptive Symptoms did molest chiefly in the whole Course of the Disease.

24. It behooves us to design the curative In∣tentions, according to the various times of the Disease, and the diversities of the Symptoms, chiefly urging.

25. About the beginning of this Feaver, the taking away of Blood, seemed convenient al∣most to all: this kind of Remedy, I often expe∣rienced with success, in little Children; for that by the means, as it were another breathing place is opened to the mass of Blood, silently and covertly growing hot, and obtruding its foot and smoak on the more noble parts; and for that reason its impure efflorescencies or put∣tings forth, are drawn away from the Brain and Lungs.

26. Therefore, although this Feaver of an ill condition, may be accounted as it were ma∣lignant; yet for as much, as the Blood is not presently apt to be coagulated, but to be too much powred forth, and to restore its serosities on the nobler parts, to wit, the Brain and Lungs; therefore Phlebotomy, if it be administred in the beginning of the Disease, is convenient almost to all.

27. For the same Reason, Cathartick Medi∣cines, and chiefly Vomitory, are administred at the very beginning of the Disease; for these do not only evacuate the Viscera of Crudities, and so draw away the chief somenting of the Disease, and as it were its original, but besides, they draw forth the serosities from the Blood, and so effect its cleansing, rather in the Sto∣mach and Intestines, than in the Head and Lungs.

28. Further by Emeticks, for that the recei∣ving Glandules of the Lymphaducts, are pulled with a great shaking, the superfluities of the nervous juyce, least they should evilly affect the Brain, and its dependencies, are expressed forth into the lower Bowels: also for this end, the Belly is to be kept continually loose, by the use of Clysters.

29. But in the mean time, whilst the Blood being infected with the taint of this Disease, threatens the Brain or Praecordia with the evil, it will not be safe to attempt any thing Diapho∣reticks, or sweating Medicines, or Diureticks, or such as evacuate by Urine, or with Cathar∣ticks, vomiting or purging Medicines.

30. For these kind of Medicines, for as much, as they greatly pour out the Blood and compel its Serosities into more open Issuings forth, all the Recrements being apt to fall away from the mass of the Blood, are easily obtru∣ded on the Brain or Lungs, when they are of a more feeble Constitution.

31. So in a person (in another place menti∣oned,) loss of speech came upon the raising of an untimely Sweat: also I have known that Sudorificks, no other than Chalybeats, in the morbid disposition of the Lungs, have brought on a wasting or Consumption.

32. Phlebotomy therefore, and if need be Vomiting and Purging, either one, or other, or both, being to be made use of at the very begin∣ing of the Disease, the other intention shall be to draw away the morbifick Serosities of the Blood, apt to flow forth on the Head or Brest, and to derive them gently by other ways of evacuation, and to put them forth out of doors.

33. To this end, Vesicatories or Blistering Plaisters, ought to be applyed to the nape of the Neck, or Parotidae, or Jugular Arteries, or to the Arm-pits, or to the Groin, or about the Thighs, or Calves of the Leggs, sometimes in this part, sometimes in that, to wit, That the little Ulcers, bei••g here and there excited, and continually run••••ng, might plentifully pour

forth the Serum, imbued with the morbid and heterogeneous Particles.

34. But Remedies gently carrying the Se∣rum into Reins and urinary Passages, are most often administred with success: For this busi∣ness, diuretical Apozems and Juleps, are to be ordained after the following forms:

35. Take of the roots of Scorzonera, Cher∣vile-grass, and of Eringoes candied, of each six drams: one Apple cut: of the leaves of Bur∣net, Meadow-sweat, of each one handful: of Raisons of the sun, one ounce and half: of Harts-horn burnt, two drams: being cut and bruised, let them be boyled on a clear fire, in four pints of spring-water, to the consumption of the third part, to a quart of the straining being clear∣ed, add of the syrups of green Citrons, or Violets, two ounces: of sal Prunella, one dram and half: make and Apozem: The Dose four ounces to six thrice in a day.

36. Or into that straining put fifteen blan∣ched sweet Almonds, and of the four cold seeds, of each one dram: being bruised, make an Emulsion, according to Art.

37. Take Dragon and black Cherry water, of each four ounces: of Scordium compound; two drams: of Treacle water, one ounce and half: syrup of Clove-gilli-flowers, two ounces: of the spirit of Vitriol, twelve drops, make a Julep.

38. Take oftentimes in a day, in small Beer or Posset-drink, half a dram, or two scruples of Sal Prunellae.

39. Besides in this Feaver, Medicines gently Sweating, of that sort chiefly, which restores the Animal Spirits, and defends them from any heterogeneous Copula are of very great use: wherefore, either the Pouder of Pearls, or the spirit of Harts-horn, or of Blood in a moderate Dose are administred twice a day, viz. Morning and Evening.

40. Clysters are to be given almost every day, and if it be thought fit, a gentle loosening purge may be taken once or twice in a Week.

41. The Di••t prescribed ought to be slender, as in other Feavers, let them be wholly Inter∣dicted from flesh, or broth made thereof, only let the Sick feed on Grewel, or Barley-broth, and let their Drink be small Beer or Posset-drink.

42. If that notwithstanding any preventive Feaver, the morbifick matter should lodge in the Brain or Lungs, or both together, so that a dissolution, or inordination of the Animal function, or a violent Cough, should assault them, it must be considered, what is to be done in either state of the Disease, carried forth after the manner, into an evil condition; but then the curative Indications ought to respect the stupor or madness or Cough.

43. And lastly, if in the declination of the Disease these symptom do remit, proper re∣medies are to be adhibited against the Atro∣phie, as it were, the last fortress of this Fea∣ver.

44. First, Therefore if the morbifick mat∣ter, as it is often wont, being brought to the Brain, should bring in an insensibleness, or a soporiferous or sleepy distemper; remedies drawing it another way and deriving it some way from the Head, and besides such as stirr up the Animal spirits and take away the im∣pure Copula, ought carefully to be admini∣stred.

45. Wherefore in this case, the use of Epi∣spasticks or such things that drew the water outwardly, should be much encreased; and let spirits of Harts-horn, be exhibited almost eve∣ry sixth hour, in a little bigger dose.

46. Let Blood also be taken away by the sucking Leeches, more largely from the Jugu∣lar Veins, Salvatella, or the Sedal Veins.

47. If the distemper remits not, the Head being shaven, let emollient fomentations be often applied thereto: further let Cupping-glasses, Plaisters and Cataplasms, be laid to the soals of the Feet and other means of ad∣ministration, such as are commonly prescrib∣ed for the curing of the stupor, or insensible∣ness, ought to be used.

48. In like manner, if on the evil days or Crisis of this Feaver, a Phrensie or Madness should come, remedies appropriate to those distempers, made use of.

49. Secondly, But if either with, or with∣out this sort of displeasure brought to the

Head, the Lungs also have taken the evil of this Disease, so that the sick not yet free from the Feaver, seems to fall into a wasting or Con∣sumption, with a troublesom Cough, with a∣bundance of thick and often discoloured spit∣tle; Medicines commonly prescribed for such kind of distempers, are convenient enough.

50. Wherefore pectoral Decoctions, Electu∣aries, Syrups, distill'd Waters of Milk and Snails, and other Remedies of the like nature, ought diligently to be made use off, the Forms of which may be found, in the before descri∣bed Cases.

51. Thus far we have described the conti∣nual Feaver, for the most part convulsive, and arising no less from the fault of the nervous Juice than of the Blood; I will here farther propose an Example of a Disease; having the likeness of an intermitting Feaver, but radica∣ted chiefly in the nervous Juice; the nature of which kind of Distemper, for that is very rare, and truly pertinent to our convulsive Patholo∣gy will appear from the following History.

52. A noted Woman, very young and indu∣ed with a more weak Constitution of Brain and nervous Stock, and for causes very obnoxious to convulsive Distempers, after she had concei∣ved with Child, about the fourth Month of her being big, cold being taken, she was greivous∣ly afflicted with asthmatical Fits, and besides, with a frequent sinking down of her Spirits.

53. But by the use of Remedies, indued with a volatile Salt, she grew well, within a fort∣nights space, but after that, about fourteen days, an unwonted and truly admirable Distemper fell upon this Gentlewoman.

54. One Morning awaking after an unqiuet Sleep that night, she felt a light shivering over all her Body, as if she had had the Fit of an A∣gue: fr••quent Yawnings and Reachings, with an endeavour to vomit followed thereupon.

55. And then her Urine, which was but now of a Citron Colour, and of a laudable Sub∣stance, became pale and waterish: moreover about her Loins and Hypochondria, and in o∣ther places, Pains with light Convulsions, run∣ning about here and there were excited.

56. Which kind of Symptoms plainly con∣vulsive, with her frequent making a of limpid Urine, continued in the Morning almost to E∣vening, in which space of time, a great quanti∣ty of water, at least three times more than the Liquor she had taken, was rendred in the mean time, neither was the Heat great, nor did Thirst trouble her, nor was her Pulse increased.

57, In the Evening the aforesaid Distempers ceased, and her Urine became of a Citron Co∣lour and moderate, and besides all night she enjoyed a moderate Sleep, then in the Morning following, about the same hour, the Fit return∣ed, accompaned altogether with the like Symp∣toms, and so dayly acted the same Tragedy.

58. Visiting this Gentlewoman, after she had been sick in this manner for twelve days, I framed the Aethiolo••y of the aforesaid Case, to wit, that this Disease chiefly radical in the ner∣vous Stock, did depend upon the Effervescenoy and Flux of the Humor, watering the nervous Parts.

59. For it might be suspected that this water being diffused from the Blood, made degene∣rate by reason of the suppression of her Terms, upon the Brain and nervous Stock, became more sharp and serous than it ought to be, and for that Cause incongruous to the containing Parts.

60. Wherefore, being gathered together to a plenitude, by the nights sleep: did provoke them and stirr them up for the expul∣sion of it, every where into wrinklings and con∣tractions: hence shiverings, yaunings, stretch∣ings and wondring pains, were excited in the whole Body.

61. Furthermore from the solid parts after this manner contracted, and shaken, not only the nervous liquour, but also the nutritious every where laid up the solid parts, but not truly assimulated were shaken of:

62. And then either Latex, being extermi∣nated from its receptacles, and received by the Veins or Lymphaducts, or water-carrying Ves∣sels, was rendred to the mass of blood, from whose bosom, (before it had acquired a Lixi∣val tincture from it,) being at last cast forth by the reins, constituted a clear and copious Ruin.

63. But that this distemper observed such

exact periods; the reason is, because the ner∣vous water being supplied with an equal dimen∣sion, did arise to a fulness of runing over, dai∣ly at the set time.

64. Therefore also, the urine appeared concocted and yellow, before and after the fit, because then its matter consisted only from the Serum of the blood: afterwards, during the convulsive fit, the limpid humor being shaken off, from the solid and nervous parts, and passing quickly thorough the blood adulterated the colour and quantity of the urine.

65. I prescribed to this big-bellied Woman, Phlebotomy, and besides a pouder composed out of Coral, Pearls, Ivory, and other Car∣diacks, to be taken thrice in a day, in a pro∣per liquor.

66. Morning and Evening she took of the Tincture of Antimony, twelve drops (whose singular effect in the too great flux of urin, I have many times experienced) by the use of these, all the symptoms ceased in a short time: Willis de morbis convulsivis, cap. 8.

LIX. A Convulsion in a young Maiden.

1. I was sent for, some years since, to come and visit a noble Virgin who was sick almost after the same manner, but somthing worse: For these almost perpetual involuntary moti∣ons came by turns, to wit, shakings of the Head and members, or defluctions or movings about here and there.

2. Besides she was afflicted with a very trou∣blesom and wonderful Convulsion, of the Dia∣phragma and Muscles serving for breathing: For every minute of an hour and oftner, her back-bone was suddenly bent in, about its mid∣dle, and together her Brest shooting out for∣ward.

3. And her Hypocondria being drawn in∣wards, she made a loud sobbing, now double, now threefold, but still with a less and less noise.

4. This kind of motion, and ebbing of a crashing noise, was wont to come for many hours, and so that she might be heard through the whole house.

5. And when any short interval of this hap∣ned, she was compelled presently to shake or writh together her Arms and Hands, and som∣times her Legs and Feet, and also to fling a∣bout most furiously her Head, and by and by to hold her Neck, as if it were stiff and un∣moveable.

6. And then in speaking, her Tongue would be taken after that manner, that she would repeat the same word very often, yea som∣times twenty times at least.

7. When the convulsive motions tormented her stongly in her outward Members, she was free a little while from that noise in the Throat, and this space of intermission she called her time of ease.

8. Tho' in the mean time, her Head and Members were carried violently here and there with convulsive motions.

9. If at any time she lay on her left side, presently a contraction of her right Hypochon∣drium inwards, with a sobbing and noise, vex∣ed her.

10. Within a few day, her strength being very much lost by the assiduity of the passions, she contracted so great an imbecility in her loins and joints of her Legs, that she could not lean, nor stand on her Feet: her Somach, distempered either with weakness, or the Con∣vulsion, return'd back, whatever was put into it, by vomit.

11. In this case as in the former it evident∣ly appears that the animal spirits, not only those implanted in this or that part or region, had contracted an Heterogeneous Copula to be shaken off by some turns, but also the spirits influencing some Nerves, being imbued with explosive particles, had brought in the per∣petual and wandering convulsive motions.

12. And when at first it hapened, that the Spirits so afflicted, did assault not only all the Nerves together, nor any indifferently, but for the most part, only those belonging to the Dia∣phragma and the Appendices of the spinal mar∣row, so that within those spaces, the fury of the spirits, perpetually explosing was li∣mitted.

13. For this reason it hapened, that the

convulsive affections being restrained, in any one of these parts, did break forth more furi∣ously strait way in another.

14. And when by their proper instinct, their motive force was imployed in one region, the same was in the mean time, wont to be re∣mitted in another.

15. Moreover in this sick person, the mor∣bifick matter, consisting both of Narcotick and convulsive Particles, caused together the para∣lytick and convulsive distemper.

16. Coming to her on the fourth day, I gave her an Emetick potion, by which she vo∣mited seven times, abundance of ropy Phlegm, with yellow choler, yet without any ease.

17. On the next day, I took six ounces of Blood, from her left Arm, presently from thence the Blood being more impetuously car∣ried towards the Head, she complained migh∣tily of an Head-ach and giddiness; But with∣in three days she being let Blood in the Foot, found herself better.

18. She afterwards took remedies for the Distempers of the Nerves, to wit, spirit of Harts-horn and of Blood, Bezoartick and shel∣ly powders, Juleps and Electuaries, Antispas∣matical: by the use of these, the symptoms seem'd to be somthing remitted, but yet they remained somwhat after the manner lately described:

19. After a fortnight, by the prescription of a certain country-Woman; she took in a draught of Beer, six spoonfulls of blood, taken from the Ear of an Ass, by which she seem'd on a sudden to be cured: For forthwith all the convulsive motions did leave her, and she re∣mained free from them twenty four hours.

20. But yet the Disease returning the next day, with its wonted force would not give place, neither to that remedy, nor indeed ea∣sily to any other, she therefore for the future took Medicines methodically prescribed:

21. Once within sick days she was gently purged, besides she took the powder composed of Bezoar, Pearls and Coral, with the roots and seeds of Peony, also an Electuary, pre∣scribed by Horstius for these kind of admira∣ble Convulsions; also Juleps, and deco••tions, proper in convulsive distempers.

22. Clysters were often used, frictions, oint∣ments, and vesicatories were administred with success; within another week, the sobbing affection wholly ceased, and likewise the other convulsive motions being grown more gentle, by degrees, very much remitted.

23. Growing well of these Distempers, a Catarrh falling down in her Throat, she was so much troubled, that she almost continually spit forth a sharp, and as it were a corrosive spit∣tle, as if she had had a Salivation by the take∣ing of Mercury, which kind of rememedy in∣deed hath been found to have been the last event in this case.

24. But I wholly abstained from admini∣string it, because both the sick and her Friends, would not give me leave.

25. After this plentiful and troublesom spitting had continued for many days, the Di∣sease seem'd almost to be wholly cured, so that this noble Gentlewoman, being free of her con∣vulsive motions, went abroad, and was well both in strength and Stomack.

26. Only she complained that oftimes in a day she was suddenly afflicted about a minute of an hour, with a shivering of her whole Bo∣dy, which kind of Distemper coming upon her somtimes in the Night, broke her sleep.

27. Within the space of a month, this sym∣ptom also, and likewise her Catarrh wholly ceased: But from thence, she was somtimes af∣flicted with an extream soreness in her Ventri∣cle, and the passage of the Oesophagus, an som∣times also in her Mouth and Pallate, that it was feared least the inward skin being fretted, those parts should contract an ulcerous dispo∣sition.

28. Besides she was tormented often in her sleep, somtimes also being awaked with the night Mare or Incubus: For this I prescribed, Spring and Fall, a gentle purge to be admi∣nistred, with the use of Antiscorbutick reme∣dies, and somtimes Chalibiates, or Medicines of prepared Steel, which kind of method she observed so much to her benefit, that she was in health for many years, and is as yet well.

29. Among the many remedies, which were taken against that sourness, and as it were ulcerous disposition of the Pallat and Oesopha∣gus, I prescribed that she should drink every morning, her own Urine fresh made.

30. This whilst it was very saltish, was wont to give her great ease; but at somtimes, her Urine flowed from her thin and plentifully, which being nothing salt, but like to sour Vi∣negar, from the drinking of that she received little or no benefit.

31. The reason of the case but now describ∣ed, seems not much unlike the former, unless that in this sick Gentleman, the explosive par∣ticles had entred into more passages of the Nerves, to wit, besides the Appendices of the spi∣nal marrow into those dedicated for the office of breathing, and also by fits, into those designed for the motion of the Tongue, and almost perpe∣tually tormented the Spirits abounding in them, with rage or fury.

32. But that the cure of this Disease hap∣pened by the falling down of the sharp humor into the emunctores of the Mouth and Throat, we may from thence gather, that the materi∣al cause of this, was the heterogeneous parti∣cles, and as it were nitrous begotten in the blood; which, when from thence being pasted through from the Brain, they were carried into the nervous stock, caused the aforesaid Distempers.

33. But as soon as by the help of remedies the more plentiful provision of that matter was hindred, and the morbifick particles already produced from the blood, Brain and nervous stock, were derived into those Emunctories of the Head, the convulsive distemper presently ceased, and within a short time, such a Crisis or secretion still remaining, the perfect cure of the Disease followed:

34. For as much as the Urine, being of it self very salt, and as it were Lixivial, became at somtimes sowerish, which did not give any help as the former to the sourness of the Throat, it may be hence gathered, that the salt particles of the blood and humors coming away by the urine, had a two fold state or condition, to wit, of fixedness and fluedness.

35. Wherefore the serum imbued by them became now of this, now of that nature, For it seems that the saline particles being deg••ne∣rate within the mass of the blood, remained fixed and rendred the urine for the most part lixivial.

36. But those which flowed without the blood, in the nervous juice, or were laid up about the solid parts, did degenerate into a flux or acetousness, and therefore from these, being derived into the emunctiores of the Mouth, that noted sourness of the Mouth, and Oesophagus proceeded.

37. Moreover when these kind of particles being gathered to a fullness in the nervous juice and solid parts, did swell up and arising to a fluxion, boyled up into the blood: pre∣sently these being sent away from thence, in heaps through the Reins, rendred the urine en∣creased in quantity, sourish.

38. But for as much as the saline particles, being of a diverse condition, and that those of the same kind could not be mingled together, they mutually moved against one another, and break their forces, therefore the salt urine and not the sour healed the sourness of the Throat.

39. It appears by a vulgar Experiment that the most sharp spirits of Vitriol, by the mixture of the salt of Tartar, or any other lixivial grows very mild: and yet from thence appears, that the acid humor, sweating out into the parts of the Mouth and Throat of this Gentlewoman, came near the nature of sharp Vitriol.

40. Because the fume of Tobacco, being taken at the Mouth of the sick person, was won∣derfully sweet, as it happens to such, who have before-hand tasted Vitriol. Willis, de morbis convulsivis, cap. 9. Observ. 2.

LX. A Convulsion in a noble Virgin.

1. Because we treat here of admirable Con∣vulsions, which do not ordinarily happen, and whose nature and causes, ly deeply hid, for the better illustration of these kinds of distempers, we will yet shew one or two more cases no less wonderful than the former.

2. About ten years since, I visited the Daugh∣ter

of a certain noble Man, afflicted after this manner with convulsive motions, that some thought her possessed with an evil Spirit.

3. This Beautiful and well shaped Virgin, about the age of sixteen, begotten of a Para∣lytick Father, without any evident cause, about the Winter Solstice began to grow very ill.

4. At first she was troubled with the Head∣ach, though not after a grievous manner, as also for many days with a giddiness; then she felt now in one of her Arms, then in another, a trembling and sudden contraction, which kind of Convulsions, returning often in that day, en∣dured scarce a moment.

5. The next day sitting in a Chair near her Sister, suddenly leaping out, she took several Jumps successively with wonderful Agility, e∣very Jump being several foot in length, then when she was come to the further part of the Chamber, she stood leaping, a great while in the same place, and every time a great height.

6. When her Legs were quite tired with leaping, she fell on the Floor, and presently she flung her head here and there, with won∣derful Violence, as if she would shake it from her Neck.

7. As soon as she ceased from this Motion for weariness, presently the same Fury inva∣ded her Hands and Feet, so that she was for∣ced violently to exercise her Members by stri∣king the Walls or Posts, or by beating the Pave∣ment.

8. When by reason of Shame or Modesty, before her Freinds and the By-standers, she did with some kind of violence hinder her self from these Motions (for all the while she was her self and spake soberly) the Distemper being sent inwardly, she was very much afflicted with a very great Oppression of the Heart, which caused her to sob and bemoan her self.

9. When she would ease her self, the Fury being transmitted to the Muscles of the outward Limbs, she was forced presently to leap about, to fling here and there her Head, or Arms, as also to run about the Chamber, or to beat the Ground with her Feet.

10. Because these kinds of vehement Moti∣ons of her Limbs or Viscera in the Tragedy of the D••stemper, did mutually relieve them∣selves, returning as it were in a Round.

11. Coming the fifth day, after this Lady was sick, I gave her a Vomit of the Infussion of Crocus Metallorum, Wine of Squills, and Salt of Vitriol, by which she vomited seven times cankered Oyl or Choler, in great plenty, with the Mixture of a sharp and as it were vitrio∣lick Humor.

12. The next day ten ounces of Blood was taken from the Saphena Vein, besides she took twice a day Antidotes of the Pouders of preti∣ous Stones, of Mans Skull, and the root of Male-Peony: By the use of these within a week she seemed to be cured; and she continued for many days afterwards free from the afore∣said Distempers.

13. But after two weeks at the time of the full Moon, she fell into a Relapse of the same Disease more cruel than before; for besides those wonderful Leapings and vehement Con∣versions and Roulings about of her Head and Members, she was forced besides to fetch often a most rapid Course round about her Cham∣ber.

14. She began at this time by the praescrip∣tions of others, to take anti-hysterical Medicines, and purges at certain set Intervals, but without any Help.

15. At last, I being sent for, because she seemed indued with a strong Habit of Body, and with a notable Fierceness of Spirits; I gave her a stronger Emmatick, by which she vomi∣ted forth ten times, greenish Choler like to Rust, with Flegm sharp like Stygian Water and she was suddenly eased:

16 After this, I gave her every Morning a Draught of white Wine dilated with the water of Black-Cherries, with Sows or Hog-Lice bruised and infused therein and strongly pres∣sed forth.

17. By the use of these she seemed presently to be cured, and was well above a Month: and when afterwards, the Distemper being about to return, she felt at any time some Fore-run∣ners, presently by the use of the Vomit, and the expression of the Millepedes or Cheslogs, she averted the approach of the Disease.

18. Within three Months, she so far recove∣red her former Health, that she has now lived these many years free from those kinds of con∣vulsive Distempers; But from the time the convulsive Passions wholly ceased she was som∣times troubled, about the parts of her Mouth and Throat, with a Defluction of a most sour Humor, like the vitriolick Stagma.

19. Besides, somtimes she was obnoxious to the Pica or longing of Women, and at som∣times also to the Cough, with a discoloured Spittle threatning a Consumption, notwithstand∣ing which, by Remedies used in these kinds of Cases, she was easily cured.

20. As to the Aetiology or rational Account of the aforesaid Case, there is no reason that we should fear to refer both the Causes and Symptoms of this Disease to the explosive Par∣ticles (the Brain being passed through without hurt) sent as a supply, continually from the Blood, into the nervous Stock.

21. Which, forasmuch as they being poured forth in great plenty, were not restrained with∣in private Mines, to be struck off gently by turns, cleaving every where, both to the im∣planted and inflowing Spirits, forced them as it were inspired with a Madness, to be perpetually explosed, and to grow raging here and there, by Bands.

22. So that indeed they were not able at all to be ruled within the containing Parts, but there was need to subdue and tame them which did so impetuously tumultuat, and were apt to be carryed here and there like a Whirlwind, by some violent and strong Motion.

23. It was in this sick Person as it is in mu∣sical Organs, which if filled above Measure by too great a blast of Wind, unless presently the Passages of more Pipes be opened, the whole Frame of the Organ is quickly shaken, and in danger to be broken to pieces.

24. In like manner in this Lady, when the animal Spirits, actuating the Pipes and the de∣pending Fibres of some of the Nerves, were moved beyond their due Tenour, there was a Necessity, that their Force should be bestowed on many vehement local Motions together, whilst they inflated above measure the nervous Bodys.

25. Wherefore when their Madness was hin∣dred in one part, by and by like Wind pent up, creeping some where else, it broke forth more violently into some other part.

26 In this sick Person, the use of one or two Vomits brought help once or twice, be∣cause that by it, what was lodged in the Gall-Vessel, yea the Glandula's and Emunctories, and also about the Viscera of Concoction, be∣ing by this means emptied, the purging of the Blood and nervous Juice, were more copiously drawn into the same place.

27. Therefore that the animal Spirits, flow∣ing within the Pipes of the distempered Nerves, might be less infected by them; By this reason also the Juice of the Sows or Hog-Lice was beneficial, forasmuch as it derived the morbi∣fick Matter, from the nervous system to the urinary Passages:

28. Besides these, the root, and in a great part, the branches of the morbifick matter being cut off, and when others, as it were An∣tidotes, hindring every where its Vegetation, were carefully administred, what was left of it, nature at length becoming superior (as she is wont in these critical Cases) sent away, to the Sinks of the Mouth and Throat. Willis de Mor∣bis convulsivis Cap. 9. Obser. 3.

LXI. A Convulsion in a noble Virgin.

1. I visited an illustrious Virgin, who was troubled with other kind of convulsive Motions, and those universal and no less to be admired: she was about the age of eighteen, handsom and well shaped, and before this time healthful; the Pestilence raging in this Neighborhood, and she being in danger of its Contagion, she fell in∣to a pannick Fear, with frequent swooning.

2. The Night following, she was under so great a Deliquium or sinking down of her Spi∣rits and insensibility, that she seem'd just a dy∣ing, hardly strugling with so great an Evil, afterwards she had every day convulsive Fits, though at first at uncertain hours, and return∣ing after a manifold kind.

3. But within a short time, its comings be∣ing made regular, twice in a day, to wit, they constantly returned at eleven of the clock, and

before five in the after-noon, that no intermit∣ting Feaver, kept more exactly its periods; yea also the same accidents of the Fit daily chanced after the same manner.

4. When she had thus been sick for three weeks, one day I was sent for, that I might take notice of all the Symptoms, and the whole Figure of the Disease.

5. She being up, about ten in the Morning, seemed to be well as to her countenance, speech and walking; in every action she behaved her∣self so well that none suspected her to be any ways indisposed; about eleven of the clock she began to complain of the repletion of her Head and the numbness of her Spirits, accompaned with a light swimming; by and by she felt a great Pulsation, and as it were the leaping of some live Animal in her left Hypochondrium.

6. Putting my hand on her side, I plainly per∣ceived this motion, then a stretching and belch∣ing followed, which done she was presently put to bed, and a Maid sitting upon a Pillow held her down; who during the fit most strickly graspt the sick Person; holding her to her bo∣som with her Arms folded about her wast.

7. Besides Servants were ready, and her Re∣lations standing by, who now pressed down her Belly, and Hypochondria rising up, and swel∣ling to a great Bulk, now held her Hands and Arms.

8. The chief Symptoms of the Disease, which being excited by turns, almost divided the whole Fit, were these, one while cruel Convulsions of the Bowels did afflict her, so that the Abdomen rising up into a mighty Bulk, so strove against the hands, held upon it, that it could not be pressed down, and at the same time, her Prae∣cordia being contracted upwards, the Motions of her Blood and Heart, were almost stopped, in which space of time, this Virgin, her Head falling down, lay nigh sensless, with a small Pulse and almost without Voice.

9. After two or three minuts of an hour these Convulsions ceased: and then the sick Person setting her self upright, looked about cheerfully, and for a while the force of the Disease was changed into talking and singing, which she performed without ceasing most pleasantly, and elegantly, beyond her proper Capacity.

10. With these kinds of Speeches and plea∣sant Jests she fell upon all the By-standers, that nothing in a Comedy could be more pleasant. Then she uttered most melodious sweet Tunes, such as could not be paralell'd by any other, nay not by her self at another time.

11. After she passed some little time thus jesting and singing, the Convulsions of her Bow∣els and Praecordia, and the want of Speech came upon her, as before; and these soon remitting, the force of the Spirits leaping back from the infe∣rior Nerves on the Brain, she was imployed much after the manner above mentioned.

12. But if any of the By-standers did at any time answer her ruggedly, when she talkt to them, she fell into those most grievous and longer con∣tinuing Convulsions of the Viscera.

13. After this manner she was wont to be molested with an alternate Distemper of the Bowels and Brain, for about the space of an hour: then towards the End of the Fit declin∣ing, more light Convulsious of the Viscera being made, they were repeated three or four times, without any Intermission.

14. Then these wholly ceasing, the force of the Disease brake forth into her outward Mem∣bers, from whence it quickly vanished; for her Arms, and Legs about one minute, suffered leap∣ings forth and contractions; presently after the sick Person left her bed (being free from Con∣vulsions) till a new Fit returned.

15. She walked about the house, her strength being indifferent good, and during the Interval of her Distemper, she cheerfully performed the acustomed Offices of life; except the lan∣guishing of her Stomach, which appeared in her loathing of food almost all day; but at Evening after her second Fit, she supped moderately.

16. This was the present State of the Dis∣ease, in whose Fits the clear use and free Exer∣cise of some Faculties, seem'd in a manner to make Compensation for the Irregularity of o∣thers, about the beginning of her Sickness, it was somwhat otherwise.

17. For the Convulsions of her Bowels were far more grievous, and an insensibility was join∣ed to them; besides in their Interval, talking

idly, an incongruous singing, yea both Laughter and Weeping without any manifest Occasion breaking forth, were wont to follow one another.

18. But now the animal Spirits being forced into longer Explosions, performed them so re∣gularly, that they seem'd after a manner to be done by the command of the Will and Reason.

19. That we may therefore according to our Hypothesis, frame an Aetiology or rational ac∣count of this Distemper; in the first place, it seems that a vehement fear did drive the Spi∣rits inhabiting the Brain and Praecordia into great Disorders: so that they being disturbed out of their Ranks, both the kinds of her Mad∣ness or Foolishness and the frequent swooning succeeded.

20. Further it may be suspected, that from the same impression, the hurt was carried to the Brain it self, so that its conformation being somwhat vitiated, the heterogeneous and mor∣bifick particles were admitted together with the nervous juice.

21. Then although the spirits at the begin∣ing, being confused and troubled after their short Inordinations, at last recovered them∣selves and performed the wonted offices both of the animal and vital function; yet by rea∣son of the taint impressed upon the Brain, the heterogeneous particles being constantly ad∣mitted, cleaving to those Spirits, induced ex∣plosive endeavours, as soon as the spirits were filled to a plenitude with the extraneous Co∣pula, they being irritated entred into con∣vulsive explosions for the shaking or striking it off.

22. About the begining of the Disease, when both the disposition of the Brain and the spirits inhabiting it, was more perverse and vitious, from the fresh received hurt, and a fullness of the heterogeneous Copula sooner happened, and so its explosion following more often and more inordinately, was dispatched with greater tu∣mult.

23. But afterwards, when the hurt of the animal regiment abating, the suppliments of that Copula, even as the nervous liquor were daily brought in with an equal dimension, the explosions of the Spirits being made more re∣gular and mild, observed their just periods or set times.

24. So that upon the approach of the fit, she felt a fullness, and as it were an inflation, in her Head, with a heaviness and dullness of the Spirits; the reason is, because at this time the Spirits inhabiting the Brain being now prepared for explosions, were wont first of all to be mov∣ed, and as it were to swell up, then that pulsa∣tion in her lef•• Hypochondria succeeded.

25. For that the Spirits inhabiting the ner∣vous foldings and fibres thickly planted about the Spleen, began to be explosed; afterwards, when the Spirits, flowing both within the Me∣senterick and Cardiack enfoldings, were explosed together, those elevations, and as it were leap∣ings up of the Abdomen and Thorax, were induced.

26. And when in this distemper, the moti∣ons of the Blood and Heart were almost whol∣ly stopped, therefore there was a small and almost no Pulse, and she became speechless and in a manner sensless.

27. The Convulsion of the Viscera and Prae∣cordia remitting, a pratling and singing suc∣ceeded, because a falling down or removal of the Spirits as yet explosed, being made from the nervous stock into the Brain, it changed the Convulsions into an exaltation of the fancy and more ready exercise of the phantasms, or representation of the imagination.

28. So long as the Spirits within the middle of the Brain are regularly and orderly explo∣sed, they bring forth the Acts of the habits and faculties so much more noble, and as it were above the strength and tenour of nature, as in this sick Gentlewoman.

29. But on the contrary, when the explosions of the Spirits in that region, happen to be in∣ordinate they cause, for the most part, foolish∣ness; or at least the exercise of their Powers are incongruous and absurd.

30. The Convulsions of the Bowels and the phantastick actions relieved one another mu∣tually, and by turns, because plenty of Spirits being disposed to be struck off, made their ten∣dency, as it were with a direct or reflected wav∣ing

or undulation, now on this part, now, on that by turns.

31. Then lastly, when they were almost all explosed, the more often Convulsions of the Viscera were stirred up, and when a small hand∣ful only remained to be explosed, that being at last excluded both from the Head and Bow∣els, it ran forth into the spinal marrow, and employed the last assault of the Disease, in the Convulsions of the Arms and Leggs.

32. There yet remains one great difficulty in this case why the fits of this Disease were always repeated exactly at set hours, and yet had so unequal periods, to wit, that the com∣ing of the first was only but six hours before the second, and then the return of the next, did not happen but in eighteen hours space.

33. For the solving of this, it is to be suppo∣sed, that these fits did depend upon the nervous juice being stuffed to a plenitude, with Hetero∣geneous particles: which particles were alto∣gether conveyed thither from the Bloody-mass, and the Blood did drink up the same from the nourishing juice sent as a supply from the Bowels.

34. These being thus supposed, we must consider, in what space of time, the Bloody-mass is filled with those morbifick particles, and then, in what measure it pours them forth into the nervous liquor.

35. As to these, that it may the better ap∣appear, after what manner it was done in the c••se of this sick person, you must know that she took in the space of twenty four hours only at one time a full meal: to wit, after the se∣cond fit was ended, she supped moderately, about seven of the Clock, the rest of the day being without an Appetite, she hardly took any food.

36. Therefore it is probable that the mor∣bifick matter was poured forth with the nutri∣ous provision into the Bloody mass, chiefly in the night; and that more plentifully than that all could presently be derived into the nervous Liquor.

37. The Heterogeneous particles, which are first conveyed from the Blood into the nervous liquor, newly satisfyed, being heaped up to a fullness, did excite the first fit, the coming of which therefore was longer delayed, because both one space is required wherein the Blood, and then another wherein the Brain and Nerves are to be filled.

38. After this fit was over, because the Blood yet full, containing in it self more par∣ticles of the same kind, pours them sudden∣ly on the nervous juice therefore the other fit is induced within thrice the space of the for∣mer.

39. But this being ended, because both the bloody mass and the nervous juice, are wholly freed from their burthen, the sick person find∣ing her self better, than at any other time, took her food gredily enough.

40. But after that, when to the next follow∣ing fit, first the bloody mass and then the nerv∣ous juice, ought to be filled with the morbifick matter, therefore ten hours are required for this double task.

41. But for as much, as there is only need for the second fit, that the other particles yet full should be derived from the bloody mass into the nervous juice, therefore for this ef∣fect, a much less space doth suffice, viz of six hours.

42. After I had seen this Lady, who had laboured for many weeks with these kind of periodical fits, I ordered that three hours be∣fore the second fit, ten ounces of Blood should be taken out of a vein in the Foot.

43. Which being done, the coming of the fit, which was expected in the evening, quite left her, neither did it return again afterwards.

44. But the other fit, observing its former time, daily returned, till the Patient being let Blood, a little before its coming, remained that day free from the Disease, which however, returning the day after, according to the same manner, exercised her many months.

45. In the mean time, because the cold of the Winter, was very great, she forbore for some time the use of Remedies: but the Spring coming on, this honorable Lady being brought to Oxford, was cured by the following method.

46. First I gave her this Cathartick, and I took care that it was repeated every sixth or

seventh day: Take of the Sulphur of Antimo∣ny, six grains: of Mercurius Dulcis, one scru∣ple: of the resin of Jalap, four grains: of Gin∣ger, six grains: let them be beaten together in a Mortar, then add of the conserves of Violets, one dram: make a Bolus; it was wont to pro∣voke two or three vomits, and three or four stools.

47. The flux of her Terms came constantly in great abundance at the set times: where∣fore when the Blood seem'd very plentiful and hot, I ordered Phlebotomy twice or thrice in the middest betwixt the times of her Terms.

48. Besides every day that she did not purge she took twice in a day four Pills of the follow∣ing mass; drinking after them a little draught of the Julep below prescribed:

59. Take Male-Peony roots, half an ounce: of Virginian snake-weed, Contrayerva, Cretick Dittany, of each two drams: of mans skull prepared, one dram and half: of an Elks-Claw, one dram: of red Coral prepared of the pow∣der of Pearls, of each one dram: of the salt of Wormwood, two drams: of the salt of Coral, one dram: with the syrup of the flowers of Male Peony a sufficient quantity make a mass.

50. Take of the water of the flowers of Male-peony, of black Cherries, and of Walnuts, of each four ounces: of the Antepileptick of Lan∣gius, two ounces: of the syrup of the flowers of Peony, one ounce and half: of Castor tied in a knot, and hung in the Glass, one dram: mix them and make a Julep.

51. When she began to loath the Pills; they being omitted, she took twice a day, to wit, in the Morning and Evening, about one scruple of the following powder, in a spoonful of the Julep, drinking after it four or five spoonfulls of the same.

52. Take of Bozar-stone, of white Amber, of Pearls prepared, of red Coral, of each one scruple: of Mans skull, two scruples: of the root of Virginian-snake-weed, and the seeds of Rue, of each half a dram: mingle them, and make a powder, let her take one scruple Morn∣ing and Evening, with a dose of the above pre∣scribed Julep.

53. Then, when also this Medicine began to be tedious to her, she used the Pills or the Elixir Proprietatis, and also somtimes for many days the Spirits of Harts-horn, at last, she be∣gan to be helped by that powder, being for some space daily taken.

54. In the mean time whilst this method of healing was ordained, her Hair being shaved from her Head, it was covered only with a thin covering: she wore upon her Belly an Hysterical plaister mixed with Galbanum for her ordinary drink, she took a Decoction of Sarsa, and China, the roots of the male-Peony and other proper things, infused in spring-water and boyled.

55. Within a month, the fits were somthing remitted, then being by degrees made gent∣ler and lesser; at length they almost quite ceas∣ed: unless that at the time of her Terms, one or two fits of the Disease was wont to trou∣ble her:

56. Further, she was afflicted with an almost constant Giddiness, and queaziness of Sto∣mach; in the middle of the Summer, she drunk Astrop waters for a fortnight, and was perfectly well.

57. But as for the means in general, to be shown for the Cure of those admirable Convul∣sions, it will not be easy to assign either fit Re∣medies for this Herculean Disease, or a cer∣tain method of Cure, approved by often Ex∣perience:

58. For, besides that these like Cases are sel∣dom met with, it is likewise observed, that the same Medicines which at this time were help∣ful to this sick person being given to another, or the same, helpt nothing at another time.

59. The reason of which seems to be, be∣cause the cause of the Disease consists in the Discrasie, or evil disposition of the nervous juice, which liquour is not always perverted, after one and the same manner.

60. But by the manifold combination of the Salts and Sulphurs, it got a morbid nature af∣ter a various manner and kind, and oftentimes changes it.

61. Wherefore in the most grievous distem∣pers of this kind, not the vulgar Medicines taken from the Shops or Dispensatory are to

be prescribed, but magistrals; as cause arises ac∣cording to the appearance of the admirable symptoms.

62. A gentle vomit, purge, blood-letting, ought to be in the first place ordained, and to be repeated as often as shall seem fit.

63. As to specifick Medicines and appropri∣ate in these Cases, when the chief indication shall be, to mend the temper of the nervous juice, you may try many, and by their effect Judg of their virtues: Therefore it may be Lawful to try, what the remedies indued with á volatil or Armoniack salt, may effect.

64. For this end the Spirits and Salts of Harts-horn, blood, soot, and the flowers and spirits of sal Armoniack are taken.

65. These helping nothing, you must come to Chalybiats or Steel-medicines: the tinctures and solutions of Coral and Antimony are giv∣en: which kind of Medicines are exhibited in such a dose and form, and so often, that some alteration may be made by them on the whole Body or nervous juice.

66. Moreover, if success shall fail in such like, you must then proceed to Alexipharma∣ticks which help against Poisons, and the ma∣lignancy impressed on the humors.

67. To wit, to institute from these Decocti∣ons and distilled waters of Vegetables, powders, Conserves, and other preparations; and to compound variously some with the others, and to administer them diversly.

68. It is not improbable that those kind of Medicines which are wont to be helpful to such as are bitten by a Viper or mad-dog, or that have taken Wolfs-bane or poyson, may be use∣ful also in the aforesaid Convulsions.

69. It may be lawful here, according to the Example of Gregorius Horstius, in his Tract of the malignant convulsive Disease, and also of wonderful Convulsions, to prescribe magi∣sterial remedies, in the form of a purging Electuary, and also of a powder and convulsive antidote, and to compound them variously, part∣ly of simple Alexipharimicks, or Poyson resist∣ers and partly of antepileptick. Willis, de Covulsivis, cap. 9. Observ. 4.

LXII. A Convulsion from a continual Feaver.

1. An Illustrious Virgin, about the age of fourteen, fell into a Feaver with a signal di∣minution of strength and fear of the Measels, which in the year 1614 were very epidemical, after which a Palsie of some parts and grievous Convulsions; the principal Faculties not being hurt.

2. Medicines were used for easing the Bel∣ly, then such as resist rottenness, and by the benefit of sweat and occult transpiration move the peccant matter from the center to the cir∣cumference.

3. First we applied this Clyster: Take Marsh-mallows, white Lillies, of each three drams 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the leaves of Mallows, Marsh-mallows, Herb Mercury, Beares-Breech, Violets, of each half an handful: flowers of Cammomil, Melilot, one pugil: Line-seed, Faenugreek, of each two scruples: fat Figgs, number eight, boyl them all in a sufficient quantity of water: take nine ounces of the Colature, the flowers of Cassia, six drams: Electuarium, Diaphaenicon, two drams: Oyl of Chammomil, Honey of Roses strained, of each one ounce: common Salt, two scruples:

4. When this was used, the Belly was well purged, but the excrements were not very much altered, because the digestive faculty was very much weakned.

5. Afterwards we endeavoured to purge by exhibiting the Bezoar stone, seven grains of which we prescribed with the water of Carduus Benedictus; upon which because of the weak∣ness of nature, there was not any sweat, yet there appeared some signs of the measels.

6. And that nature might be helped in ex∣pelling; we prescribed this following expulsive drink: Take Terra sigillata, half a draw: the Bezoar-stone, six grains: Fumetory water, two ounces and half: the Vinegar of Elder, two drams: mix them, and make a draught.

7. After the use of this the Measels did more and more appear, but they were few in number, of whittish colour, and a little resembling the colour of Blew; which is rather the sign of a

dying than of an expelling Nature.

8. Her Feaver notwithstanding was conti∣nued, and about the Evening for the most part outragious; therefore because of her great ve∣hement thirst, we prescribed her a Decoction of the roots of Succorie, and a Julep of the wa∣ters of Borage, Sorrel and Fumitory mixed with syrup of Sorrel and Citrons.

9. Within a few days a Paralytick weakness seised the right side, as well as the Arms and Feet, which was not continual in those parts but somtimes in one, and somtimes in another place.

10. This Paralytick distemper, I take not to be a true Palsy but a bastard one, much like to that which comes upon acute Feavers, though but seldom, where the malignity is not per∣fectly discussed by the musculous habit; this symptom must be helped and followed with ex∣ternal Medicines, Sudorificks and such things as resist its malignity.

11. We did predict this Disease to be very difficult, because it seem'd to take its original from the Malignant matter not perfectly ex∣pelled.

12. While we did thus stick betwixt hope and fear, we did again help nature because of the sluggishness of the Belly with a lenitive infu∣sion; and we did study to Evacuate the peccant matter by exhibiting a draught of the following Laxative Wine.

13. Take the Leaves of choice Sena, half an ounce: Rubarb, one dram and half: Agarick, two drams: Roots of Succory, Liquorish, of each five drams: the Flowers of Peaches, six drams: Borage, one pugil and half: the Seeds of Anis and Fennel, of each one dram: Mace and Galangal, of each two scruples: being cut and bruised infuse them for the space of four and twenty hours, in half a measure of mild Wine.

14. By this she had three stools and appear∣ed to be much better, nature being in some measure eased of that burthen, with which for∣mally it was oppressed because of the obstructi∣on of the Belly there continued still a weakness of the extream parts; upon which followed a Convulsion, whereby not only all the Back-bone, with the Vertebrae of the Neck (the Brain and Organs of the external Senses remaining un∣hurt) but the Arms also Hands and Feet were variously convulsed, not without great pain to the sick and the commiseration of the By-standers.

15. Although this Evil was fierce and out∣ragious enough, yet so great was the strength of nature, that it did drive away the malignity from the fountain of the animal Faculty, to wit, the Brain, to the back-bone and extream parts.

16. We thought fit therefore to order this following Liniment, for the back-bone to be used the first night: Take Oyl of Cammomil, half an ounce: of Earth-Worms, of Rue, of each six drams: Nutmeg by Expression, half a dram: mix them.

17 We then exhibited a gentle Extension to the convulsed parts and a Fomentation of the precious Apoplectick Water distilled with Castoreum and mixed with the Water of Swal∣lows; by which Fomentation and Aspertion the Paroxisms oft-times were remitted to a miracle.

18. But we thought it necessary to continue still anointing of the back-bone, with yet a strong∣er Liniment: Take the Oyl of sweet Almonds of Foxes, of each one ounce: Castoreum, three drams: the Flowers of Cammomil, Rosemary, and Marjoram, of each one pugil: the Apo∣plectick Water with Castoreum, two ounces: boyl them over a gentle fire to the consumption of the water, strain, and then add one dram and half of the Oyl of Turpentine, mix them.

19. In the mean time we did not neglect to exhibit Corroboratives, such as restaurative broaths of the Gravey of Meat or Flesh, and Rouls and Morsels proper for the Head and Heart.

20. A Confection of Rouls was after this mannner: Take Species Diambrae, Diarrho∣don Abbatis, of each half a scruple: white Am∣ber praepared, one scruple: Pearls praepared, half a dram: Oyl of Nutmeg distilled, five drops: Sugar dissolved in Tile-flowers, two oun∣ces: make a Confection in Rouls.

21. Afterwards we granted Morsels for the Heart because of her feaverish heat, they were

such as were made of the Juice and Peels of Citrons, a small quantity of Pearls prepared being added: and a little Sugar dissolved in a sufficient quantity of Rose-Water.

22. The fierceness of the symptoms being yet not very much abated, for the further Dis∣sipation of the malignant matter, and the strengthning of the Nerves we ordered the fol∣lowing Cataplasm for the back-bone.

23. Take Line-seed and Faenugreck, of each half a pound: the Flowers of Cammomil, and leaves of Sage, of each two handfuls: Casto∣reum, two drams: boyl them in Water and Wine an equal proportion, add thereto the Oyl of Rue and mans grease, of each half an ounce: mix them and make a Cataplasm; which is to be frequently applied warm.

24. Which being done, that wished for Re∣mission of the convulsive Fits did succeed, inso∣much that the sick did rest well almost the whole night; this being on the third of October, about the Morning of the following day there was a swiftness in the Pulse with some Heat; which was presently abated, and perhaps was occasi∣oned by natures forcing what was hurtful from the internal to the external Parts.

25, The Cataplasm was renewed and conti∣nued; neither were the Convulsions so great and frequent as formerly, but when they came they were light, and by Intervals happened to be in the right Arm with some pain; for the space of three days we rested content with those Administrations, save that we succoured Na∣ture once and again by a laxative Infusion, with Suppositories because the Belly was somwhat constipated.

26. In the mean time the extream parts be∣cause of the vehemency of the precedent Con∣vulsions did appear as if they were paralytick; therefore we ordered this following Liniment.

27. Take the roots of Peony, Galangal, of each three drams: Tops of Sage, Hysop, Beto∣ny, of each one pugil: the Flowers of Cam∣momil, of Peony, of each half a pupil: the Leaves of Origanum, fresh Rue cut, of each half an handful: Bay Berries and Juniper-ber∣ries, of each two drams: Castoreum, one dram: being cut and bruised, boyl them in fresh Oyl o∣live, half a pound: old Wine, three ounces: boyl them to the consumption of the Wine; strain by Expression, and then add Oyl of Nutmegs by Expression two drams: Oyl of Amber and Rosemary, of each one dram.

28. This Liniment was continued for some days with advantage, both internal and exter∣nal Corroboratives being prescribed on the pre∣cedent days; but we desinging a further Dissi∣pation of the peccant matter; we did exhibite with success seven grains of the Bezoar-stone with two ounces of Pauls-Betony diligently pre∣pared.

29. After the Administration of these things, he had several indicative signs of Recovery; such as convenient Sleep, an Appetite to meats, and a good Concoction; then we succoured na∣ture by good Diet; and thought it also neces∣sary to apply to the back-bone which was very much debilitated an Emplaister of Oxycroce∣um, for strengthning the nervous and muscu∣lous parts, by the use of which she grew pretty well, and the strength of the Nerves and Mus∣cles did return by little and little.

30. Yet there was some weakness in the Joynts all the next Winter, therefore we ordered her to repair the next Spring to the Baths, which were used for the space of three weeks accor∣ding to our directions, a gentle Evacuation be∣ing first taken for the space of four days, of the following laxative Wine.

31. Take the Roots of Elecampane, Fennel, Pimpernel, of each half an ounce: Liquorish, Polypody, of each six drams: Mechoacan, two drams: Leaves of choice Sena, one ounce: A∣garick, half an ounce: Rhubarb, one dram and half: Sage, Rosemary, of each one dram: the Seeds of Anise, and Fennel, of each a dram: Mace, Ginger, Cinnamon, of each one scru∣ple: mix them and make a Bag.

32, By these things this illustrious Maid was restored to perfect Health, and was never af∣terwards troubled with the like Distemper. Georgius Horstius, Tom. 2. Lib. 1. Observ. 18.

LXIII. A Disposition to a Convulsion by con∣sent of the spleen and the adjoyning parts.

1, A noble Woman in the Dukedom of Wur∣temberg,

about the age of four and twenty, did complain of a daily Compression and straitness of her Brest; with an Inflamation of the Hy∣pochondria, a vehement pain of the Stomach and perpetual obstructions of the Belly.

2. It happened that for many years this per∣son felt in the external parts a convulsive kind of pain, like the running over quickly of Pis∣mires, whom also as it were an unmoveableness and stiffness of the Joints did seize; insomuch that at length the motions of the parts were im∣peded, with a spontaneous weariness of the whole Body and an Eclipse of the Mind.

3. As to the curative Indications we ought to have respect to the preventing and extirpa∣ting the peccant matter, that the root and sink of the Evil may not be increased.

4. Secondly that the same matter may be corrected after the most convenient way.

5. For the first a good order and method of Diet is to be observed, and the circumambient Air should be moderately hot; first of all de∣fend the Head, Hands, and Feet from the cold; and shun all cold, cloudy, rainy weather, and southerly winds; at which time it will be conve∣nient to use in the Chamber a fumigation of the wood and berries of Juniper, Mastick, O∣libanum, Amber, and the like.

6. The obstructions of the Belly to which the sick is inclinable may be removed by Broths of Damask Pruins sweetned with sugar, rear-eggs made ready with Butter, a Ptisan made of Barly husked, the broth of Beets, of red Ciches; and a bird called Solitarius, or the Yolks of Eggs with a spoonful of sugar and the like, all which are to be taken a little before other Meats.

7. But if such like kitchen Medicines avail nothing, you may take, two hours before dinner and supper, six drams of the Electuary of Ta∣marinds, with the leaves and tops of Sena, either by its self or dissolved in some of the aforesaid Broths, for the same reason one dram of the Cream of Tartar may be conveniently given.

8 As to food, the flesh of Swine and Cows if it be old is to be avoided, as also Meats of more difficult digestion.

9. Under this prohibition we may include Fish of all sorts, except Perches, Gudgion and other Fish among the stony and rocky places; Milk and things made of it, unripe Fruits, Mu∣stard, Garlick, and Onions, &c. are not to be used.

10. You must content your self with a few things, as Veal, Weathers-flesh, Hens, Capons, Fowls of the Mountains, Spinage, Beets, Ap∣ples neither too sweet nor sour, Damascens, and such like.

11. You may make ready and season those Fleshes with Sage, Thyme, Marjoram, and Rosemary, Caraway seeds, Fennel and Capars.

12. For drink in the beginning of your meal this physical Wine will be convenient; into which there may be infused some of the root Ele∣campane, Cloves, Peony with the leaves of Harts-Tongue, Betony and Rosemary, &c.

13. As to the correction of the peccant mat∣ter, it may be affected by appropriate Medi∣cines; first therefore we order a laxative Wine to be taken for eight days: Take the Roots of Peony, Valerian, Swallowwort, Madder, of each half an ounce: Scorzonera, Polypody, of each six drams: the Bark of Ash, dwarf-Elder, Elder, of each one dram: the Leaves of Sena, ten drams: Rhu∣barb, two drams and half: Agarick, Mechoac∣an, of each two drams: the Flowers of Peaches, Acacia, of each three drams: the Leaves of Cen∣taury the lesser, Scordium, Hore-hound, Fumi∣tory, of each half an handful: Carthamus-seeds, two drams: Cream of Tartar, two drams and half: Galangal, Zedoary, of each one dram: cut and bruise them, and then put them into a Bag; which is to be steeped four and twenty hours in two quarts of Wine.

14. This with an empty Stomach let them take either five or six ounces alone, or with half a dram of Cream of Tartar, whereby the first ways or passages and the more proximate mese∣ricaks may be purified.

15. The way being prepared thus, we shall the more expeditiously penetrate to the root of the Malady and that by a convenient digestion, which may be done by taking half a dram of the following pouder either in Wine of Harts-tongue or Worm-wood.

16. Take Cream of Tartar, one ounce and an half: Magistry of Tartar vitriolated, one

dram and half: red Coral, one dram: Fecula Aronis, Briony, of each one dram and half: Salt of Worm-wood, Carduus Benedictus, of each four scruples: mix them, and let it be gi∣ven in two Doses.

17. Then let this proper purgative be given after this digestion: Take Magistry of Tartar vitriolated, one dram: Diagridium with the Oyl of Fennel prepared, four grains, mix them and make a Pouder, Georgius Horstius. Tom. 2. Lib. 12. Observ, 44.

LXIV. A Convulsion in a married Woman,

1. A certain married Woman was much af∣flicted with Convulsions, not much unlike the former we have already mentioned, with these she also laboured under, first a trembling and then a shaking of her members, which trembling was first felt in the extream parts.

2. Presently by communication the Arms appeared convulsed, whereupon followed a Dispnaea, with a contraction of the back and the whole body, and which is very wonderful all this was without any pain, unless when the Pa∣roxysm was remitted, all the parts were exceed∣ingly wearied.

3. Her Urine was such that by its crudity there seemed to be an obstruction of the Visce∣ra of the second concoction; therefore I had respect to the first ways or passages that they by little and little might be purged, and then to such Remedies as should open those latent and hidden obstructions, digest the peccant mat∣ter, and strengthen the Head and nervous Sy∣stem.

4. We began the Cure by this following laxa∣tive Wine: Take Roots of Peony, Swallowwort, of each half an ounce: the five Openers, one dram and half: Roots of Elecampane, Scorzo∣nera, of each three drams: the Leaves of Scor∣dium, Hoar-hound, Fumitory, Harts Tongue, Ceterach, Betony, of each half an handful: the Leaves of Sena, one ounce and half: Rhu∣barb, one dram and half: the Bark of the roots of black Alder, Esula, of each two drams: the Tops of Elder gathered in the Spring, half an handful: the Flowers of Elder, of Peaches, of each three pugils: the Seeds of red Ciches, six dram: Fennel, one dram: Galangal, Sassafras, of each half a dram: Cinnamon, one dram: Currans, ten drams: Cream of Tartar, one dram and half: make an Infusion in six pound of Rhenish-Wine; let them stand four and twen∣ty hours: and afterwards let her take for the space of eight days half a pint thereof every day with a fasting Stomach.

5. This being premised we endeavoured in the next place to open further those hidden ob∣structions; to digest the peccant matter, and to strengthen the Head and Genus nervosum.

6. Take Roots of Swallowwort, Elecampane, Cloves, Peony, of each half an ounce: the leaves of Betony, Sage, of each one handful: S••aechas-flowers, Rosemary-flowers, of each half an hand∣ful: Species Deanthos, Plires Archonticon, of each half a dram: Diagalangal, Calamus A∣romaticus, Cloves, of each one scruple: Sugar, to the weight of them all: make a Pouder.

7. We gave every day in the morning one dram of this Pouder in a draught of Sage and Rosemary Wine, which we continued for the space of fourteen days, not omitting appro∣priated Evacuations which were exhibited in the intermediate days.

8. Outwardly we advised a fomentation to be used with the spirits of Wine, wherein was infused Castoreum, Myrrh, Bay-berries, Juni∣per-berries, the leaves of Sage, Rosemary, Be∣tony, Rosemary flowers, Primroses, Lavender, and the like.

9. We also ordered the Back-bone to be often anointed with the Oyl of Earth-worms, Oyl of Castoreum, Oyl of Foxes and of Or∣rise, &c.

10. The drink was Beer well purged from its faeces, in which was infused the roots of Cloves and Elecampane; the leaves of Rose∣mary, Betony, Sage, with Bay-berries, Nut-meg, Cinnamon, Cloves, &c. By which Re∣medies and the blessing of God upon them, this most grievous and vehement symptom was re∣mitted to that degree, that the sick never af∣terwards complained. Georgius Horstius, Tom, 2. lib. 2. Observ. 44.

LXV. A Convulsion in the exream Parts.

1. A certain Reverend Parson was afflicted with a most grievous pain about his Neck and Shoulders, which at length vexed greatly his left Knee, and then together with a sudden tu∣mor, immediately relinquishing this place; they seised another, to wit, the right Knee.

2. Also the Arms, Hands and Leggs alter∣nately were swelled with these kind of wan∣dering pains; yet all this was without any in∣temperature of the Visera, or loss of appetite.

3. This person having implored the help of a worthy Physician called Cornelius Thaureus, because I was absent; Evacuation being first premised, he ordered the following drink to be taken daily, to wit, a physical Wine which is as follows.

4. Take Succory roots, one ounce: Swallow∣wort, Cloves, of each half an ounce: Endive Peony, of each two drams: Betony leaves, Maiden-hair, gout Ivy, Primroses, both root and herb, of each one handful: the flowers of Rosemary, Sage, Time, of each half an handful: the leaves of Carduus Benedictus, one hand∣ful: cut them after a gross manner for this physical Wine.

5. Moreover he ordered the daily use of the convulsive powder, which was after this man∣mer prescribed: Take the roots of Swallow-wort, Sarsa-parilla, Endive, Cloves, of each two drams: Peony, Bay-berries, of each one dram: the powder Rosemary, Sage, Time, of each half a dram: species plires Archonticon, Diamoschi Amari, Dianthos, of each one scru∣ple: make a powder.

6. The quantity of one dram of this powder being taken every day in the Morning; as also sweat being oft-times provoked and continued for a week or two; those most violent pains and tumors of the External parts were thereby so much discussed, that afterwards by these few strengthening Medicines the Patient was even restored to the vigour of his former health. Georgius Herstius, Tom. 2. lib. 2. Observ. 45. pag. 118.

LXVI. A Convusion in another person.

1. I see no cause, why I should change my opinion concerning the use of that powder which is already mentioned, But it should be gently boyled in the whey of Goats-milk or in the milk it self.

2. It will be convenient to take two drams of the convulsive powder, with Conserves of Betony and flowers of of Peony, of each one ounce: which put together into a clean Rag; the milk or posset being seethed over a gentle fire is to be frequently instilled; by which you shall recover strength and allay the vehemency of the Disease.

3. To Anoint also the Back-bone twice or thrice a day with the Oyl, I have above com∣mended, cannot but be very profitable. Geor∣gius Horstius, lib. 2. Observ. 45.

LXVII. Convulsions by consent from the Womb.

1. A Gentlewoman did complain that she had for above half a year felt a torturing pain in the Womb; a wind arising from the left Hypochondria with pain, the Arms and Mouth being also convulsed.

2. First a decent and proper Diet being or∣dered, I advised the following things: Take species Hiera Simplex, half a dram: Castore∣um, assa Faetidae, of each half a scruple: Am∣moniacum, Opopanax, of each fifteen grains: Galbanum, five grains: Cinnamon, half a scruple: Saffron, four grains: mix them with the water of Mugwort, make Pills number twenty five and guild them, take five or six at once, and let them be repeated every eight day.

3. Afterwards with the following water you may use this bagg: Take the Faeculae of Briony, one scruple: the salt of Mugwort, half a scru∣ple: mix them; put them up into a paper for one dose, and to be continued so for five doses.

4. Take water of Mugwort, Penny-royal, of each three ounces: Cinnamon, one ounce: mix them.

5. This following Emplaster is to be applie••

also and to be carried always on the Navel: Take Emplaster of Galbanum, six drams: the Magnet reduced into a powder, mix them and malax them with the Oyl of Castoreum, and make a plaister, to be spread on Leather; by the help of these she was free from all fear or fits of this Disease for the space of two years. Georgius Horstius, Tom. 2. lib. 2. Observ. 50.

LXVIII. A Convulsion in another person.

1. 'Tis necessary I give rules for diet; your meat must be such as affords a good Chyle, and is easy of concoction, as Mutton, Veal, Goats-flesh, Hens, Cocks, Capons, Partridges, all wild-fowls, &c. of Corns, Wheat, Barley, and Oat-meal, of Fruits, Apples, Pears, Damescens, and others both boyled and otherways dressed.

2. Of Herbs, these folowing are good, Sage, Time, and Mother of Time, Hyssop, Penny-royal, Marjoram, Rosemary, Mint, Origa∣num, Savory, also Fennel, Cumin, Dill, Mug∣wort, Beet, Spinage Blit, somtimes Turnip, Skirrets, fresh Eggs and Butter, with good Broths, pure Wine and Beer, clear and not too strong.

3. Sleep must not be presently after meat, nor in the day time; neither must violent mo∣tions or exercises be used after eating; these rules being carefully observed, we must then endeavour to eradicate the pestilent and ma∣lignant matter.

4. And first according to the measure of strength you must make use of a specifick Ele∣ctuary two or three days, you may take the quantity of half an ounce thereof; and about four hours after and in the Evening you may take Broth wherein is a little Rosemary, Mo∣ther of Time, Savory or Sage.

5. After this purge, the following reme∣dies may be used alternately for a whole month, and after the first Evacuation of the Body, if perhaps the Cure commences in the New-moon, let them take every day for five or six days one dram of the convulsive powder.

6. After this, on the sixth or seventh day, and indeed the next after the first quarter of the Moon, they must take again half an ounce of the said purgative Electuary, then let them continue the convulsive powder to the time of full-Moon.

7. Which being done, let them repeat the same quantity of the Electuary; and so let them proceed to the third week, or to the new Moon, untill the malady is in some good mea∣sure remitted and the Members by renewed strength appeare more brisk and lively.

8. Which being effected, they may desist from the constant use of Remedies; yet they may reassume one dram of the convulsive pou∣der, a little before the new. Moon, but chiefly in Winter about the months of December and January.

9. And let them cause Sweat, by taking a sufficient quantity of Treacle, and somtimes for strengthning of the Members, let them chew of Peony roots, Elecampane, Sage, Rue, Juniper-berries, Cummin, &c.

10. As to the affected Members and the comforting of them, It will be convenient that once every day the whole Marrow of the Back∣bone from the first Vertebra of the Neck to the last Vertebra of the Os Sacrum be well anointed with one or the other of these Oyls, to wit, the Oyls of Foxes, sweet Almonds, Earth∣worms, Castoreum, &c.

11. Or if these cannot be had, then make use of Goose or Hens grease, or the Marrow in the bones of a Calf, the Sewet of Mutton or the Fat of a Calf; one or the other of these following being mixed therewith, as Earth∣worms, Castoreum, Cammomil flowers, Rosema∣ry, Dill, Origanum; Savory, Mother of Time, Primroses, Rue, a little Wine or broath of Hens being added, they being all boyled to the consumption of the Wine or Broth: make a li∣niment for the whole Back bone.

12. But if any person should find any great tumor or pain about the region of the Spleen and Liver or any other part of the Body; let him take some of the above mentioned herbs and boyl them in Wine for a fomentation, and afterwards anoint the part well, and moreover the Members that are oftenest afflicted with convulsive motions, especially after sweating should be gently rubbed with warm cloaths.

13. And afterwards let him bath with spi∣rit

of wine, in which are infused for a Night the flowers of Primroses, Lavender, Rue, Sage, Betony or Castoreum it self.

14. Or the said spirit of Wine may be mixed with the distilled water of Lavender, for which purpose let him always wear Gloves and Shoo's made of Wolf's or Cats-skins; the continual use of which is good for preserving the Mem∣bers in their due strength.

15. And if the Feet require it, you may prepare a Bath of Betony, Mother of Time, Primroses and Cammomil, the Feet being bath∣ed therein, you may gently rub them dry with a warm cloth.

16. But if all these means should not be sufficient, then Issues are to be made both in Leggs and Arms, which are to be kept open until the malady be discernably remitted; But if this Evil be not yet eradicated, then he must repair unto the natural Baths. Georgius Hor∣stius, lib. 8. cap. 6.

LXIX. Of those who are in the Paroxysm.

1. If any should be suddenly taken with Con∣vulsions and held in the Paroxysm, immedi∣ately after he has felt the pain runing over his Hands and Feet, let him rub the affected Mem∣ber with the spirit of wine, above mentioned, and extend the parts contracted and bow the members that are distorted.

2. But if the vellication does not yet cease, then ligatures are to be made use of towards the parts afflicted.

3. If the hand, for example sake be grived, then the ligature is to be in the Arm, between the Elbow and Shoulder; if the Foot or Legg be afflicted, then the ligature is to be applied to the Thigh, between the huckle-bone and the Knee; and the part affected is to be kept tyed, till the malignant vapour and the sense of pain shall altogether vanish away.

4. And if the vellication and pricking should longer continue, then the ligature may be somtimes loosned, whereby the member may more liberally receive the blood and the en∣livening spirit; which being done, let him pre∣sently bind on the ligature, and so let him pro∣ceed alternately, until there be a remission which pain and vellication at length ceasing, he may unbind the Ligature.

5. This being done, let him take one dram of the convulsive powder, or half an ounce of the counvulsive Antidote, well dissolved in a little broth, for defending the Brain and prin∣cipal members, and dissipating the venomous vapours in the same.

6. But if that malignant humor give him so long thruce as to lie in Bed, then he may if strength will permit, cover himself well with coverings till he sweat, and so those vapours by insensible transpiration be evaporated.

7. These Remedies are to be alternatly rei∣terated even till a total intermission of the Dis∣ease and pain; which being done, let him the next day take for a purge half an ounce of the purging Electuary: Observing all things ex∣actly according to former prescriptions. Geor∣gius Horstius, lib. 8. cap. 7.

LXX. Other universal remedies designed for the cure of this Disease.

1. Of these there are chiefly three, to wit, the purging convulsive Electuary, the convulsive Antidote, and the convulsive Powder.

2. The first, viz. the puging convulsive Electuary is this: Take Diaphaenicum Solidum, four ounces: the Electuary of the juice of Roses, two ounces: and half: the convulsive Anti∣dote, or Treacle here described, two ounces: the powder of Hermodacts cleansed from the up∣most Bark, Turpentine, Esula, of each one dram: Diagrydium, Castoreum, of each two scruples: Ginger, Costus, Cloves, of each one scruple: the seeds of Rue Cummin, Crocus, of each half a scruple: mix them and with the syrup of Roses solutive make an Electuary.

3. The convulsive Antidote: Take the root•• Peony, Misleto, of each two ounces: Castoreum, Sage, of each two ounces: Bay-berries, Mans-skull burnt, of each two drams: Treacle of Alexandria, choice Mithridate, of each twelve ounces: clarified Honey, two pound: mix them for a Treacle Electuary.

4. The convulsive powder: Take the pow∣der of the roots of Swallow wort, Elecampane, Devills-bite, Avens, Peony, of each one ounc••

and half: Bay-berries, half an ounce: the tops of Sage, Mother of time, Rosemary-flowers, of each two drams: Species Diamoschi Dulcis, Plirisarconticon, Dianthos, of each one dram: mix them, and make a powder.

5. After this manner have we delineated the convulsive Disease, with its cure; and we have by experience found that the above named Re∣medies has given such abundant help to Na∣ture, that this stubborn dangerous Disease has been overcome and all its symptoms vanished. Georgius Horstius, lib. 8. cap. 9.

LXXI. These following things are also good for the Convulsion.

1. Make a fomentation of the leaves and flowers of the Tile-tree boyled in Wine; after the fomentation, take for anointing the parts the Oyl of Line-seed, Goose-grease, mixed with the Oyl of Cinnamon, the Oyl of Earth-worms, mixed with Turpentine: Take the Oyl of Cam∣momil, one ounce: of Earth-worms, half an ounce: Castoreum, the powder of Earth-worms, of each half a dram: mix them.

2. Treacle dissolved in the Oyl of Scorpions and Castoreum is of good use, if the distemper proceed from a cold Cause. Gregorius Horstius, vol. 3. lib. 2. cap.

LXXII. A Convulsion in a certain Ma∣tron.

1. A certain Matron was for some days afflicted with horrible fits of a Convulsion, accom∣panied with a kind of foolishness: her body was sometimes so im••etuously shaken that scarsly two of the strongest men could hold her.

2. I having observed that she loathed all kind of Medicaments, I advised that her Hus∣band who had been for some time absent, should be called, and her Members which had been for some days shaken and wasted to be anoint∣ed with the following Oyntment:

3. Take the Oyl of the flowers of Slotanus, one ounce: the Oyl of Earth-worms, of Foxes, of Camomil, of Lillies and white Roses, of each half an ounce: and mix them.

4. From that time I never knew that she was ever taken with convulsive fits or other Dis¦eases all the time she lived with her Husband, who was a Physitian. Fabritij Hildani, cent. 6. Observ. Chururg: 26.

LXXIII. Convulsions considred in general.

1. A Convulsion is two fold, either universal or particular; an universal Convulsion is three-fold, either the Head and whole Body is con∣tracted and drawn to the Breast: or the Head, Neck and the rest of the Body is convulsed and drawn to the hinder parts and Back: or the whole remains immoveable and inflexible to either part.

2. A particular Convulsion is only that which seises one part.

3. This Disease either proceeds from re∣pletion, or emptiness or from the putrid ma∣lignant Vapours elevated to the Brain, and the original of the Nerves.

4. All Convulsions are dangerous, but par∣ticularly that which proceeds from emptiness; the Nerves being too much dried by immode∣rate Purgations, vomits, a burning Feaver, &c. cannot be easily moistened or humected and oft-times the strength is loosened and destroy∣ed by the sharpness of the Disease before the Nerves can recover their former Humectati∣on and be reduced to some good temper.

5. Wherefore Hippocrates did rightly pro∣nounce a convulsion from Hellebor, to be dead∣ly, because of the immoderate Evacuation, which also an incurable siccity and driness does follow.

6. The same Author affirms that a Convul∣sion occasioned by a wound is also incurable because of the hurting and inflamation of the Nervous parts, by which great pain comes, which by consent grievously afflicts the Brain.

7. A Convulsion from Malignant and veno∣mous vapours is no less dangerous: For by them the Brain is not only afflicted, but also the Heart to which the vapours are carried by the Arteries.

8. In the cure of this Disease the cause is to be looked to: If the Convulsion proceed from repletion, according to Hippocrates, it requires evacuation; wherefore a good Diet is to be in∣stituted, the Body is to be Purged and a vein

is to be opened, and the part affected and the whole marrow of the Back-bone is to be anoint∣ed with the following Oyntment.

9. Take Oyl of Earth-worms, of Foxes, of each two ounces: Oyl of Turpentine, of Wax, of Castoreum, of each half an ounce: Mans grease, three ounces: juyce of Earth-worms, one ounce: mix them and apply them hot.

10. But if the Distemper proceed from inanition and siccity, purgative Medicine and blood letting must be avoided; and meats that are moistning or humecting, and nutritive must be used.

11. If the Patients thirst be great, then the following potion may be exhibited: Take the water of Bugloss, Roses and Violets, of each four oun••••s: syrup of Violets, four ounces: mix them and make a Julep, which the sick may take as often as he pleases.

12. Emulsions of the cold seeds and the Milk of sweet Almonds are very agreable, as also the Conserves of Violets, the flowers of Water-lillies, Nenuphar and Borrage.

13. If the Belly be not in good temper, you may administer a Clyster, let it be such a one as is both emollient and nutritive, made of the broth of Mutton, Capons and Hens, with the Yolks of four Eggs, and a little of the powder of Saffron, Mace and Cinnamon-water.

14. The part affected and the marrow of the Back is to be anointed with the following things: Take Mans fat, the Oyl of Violets and sweet-Al∣monds, of each two ounces: the juyce of Earth-worms, three ounces: mix and apply them warm.

15. If the Convulsion be by consent, that is to say, if it proceed from pain, inflamation and tumefacton, then the pain is to be asswag∣ed, the inflammation is to be extinguished, and the tumefaction of the Member is to be resol∣ved and dissipated; in which Case the follow∣ing Oyntment is agreeable even to a wonder∣ful manner.

16. Take Oyl of Sage, Dill, Cammomil, Fox∣es, the juyce of Earth-worms, Mans grease, of each two ounces: Oyl of Turpentine, Aqua vitae, of each one ounce: Saffron, one dram: mix them and make a Liniment.

17. Ambrosius Paraeus who deserves eternal Encomiums, does exceedingly commend the fol∣lowing Liniment to be used in Diseases of the Nerves, chiefly those which arises from a cold cause: Take Sage, Ground-pine, Marjoram, Rosemary, Rue, Lavender, of each one hand∣ful: the flowers of Cammomil, Melilot, Dill-Hypericon, of each two pugils: Bay and Juni∣per-berries, of each two ounces: the roots of Py∣rethrum, two drams: Mastick, Benjamin, of each one ounce and half: Turpentine, one pound: Oyl of Earth-worms, Dill, and Whelps, of each six ounces: Oyl of Turpentine, three ounces: Mans-grease, two ounces: Crocus, one dram: white Wine, one pound and half: Wax a sufficient quantity, bruise those that are to be bruised, and pulverise those that are to be pulverized, afterwards let them be boyled in a double vessel with the several Oyls and grease above mentioned, and then make a Liniment ac∣cording to Art, adding in the end three ounces of Aqua vitae.

18. But if the Convulsion proceed from evil and malignant vapours, afflicting the Brain and other noble parts: the digestion and sup∣puration of the Wound must be accelerated, and although cold defensitives impede the Ele∣vation of the vapours, yet because th••y retard the suppuration of the wound and ••urt the Nerves, they are not to be used but with great judgment.

19. This one thing I shall add, that to those Liniments which are applyed to the Wound there be always added some Treacle, Mithri∣date, and the Bezoar stone.

20. Mithridate, also Treacle, the Bezoar-stone Harts-horn and other Alexipharmacks, taken in at the Mouth, does agree very well; an Epithem is to be applyed to the region of the Heart, as also to his Wrists. Fabritius Hildanus, de Gangrena, cap 26.

LXXIV. A Convulsion in a fat Man.

1. A man fat, thick and flegmatick about the age of five and thirty, having after supper a great pain in his Head, was suddenly taken with an universal Convulsion through his whole Body, insomuch that I never before had seen the like.

2. For his Leggs and Arms were not only convulsed, but also the muscles of his Breast, yea a most violent Convulsion had seized the whole Body; he lay speechless, with his Mouth shut; if he had been pricked, there followed a contraction of the Hands and Feet; but he had some Sense, so that it did not appear to be an Apoplexy.

3. This Fit continued two whole days, and three nights till Death gave him a Quietus est.

4. Coming to him at night, I ordered Fricti∣ons and Ligatures, and having by an Artifice opened his Mouth, I ordered Oxymel to be put into his Mouth, as also a sharp Clyster to be in∣jected.

5. In this difficult Case I did press earnestly for consultation with Cornelius Ericius my Col∣league, whose Sentiments of the Disease, and of the Necessity of the Clyster which was prepa∣red was the same with mine.

6. We agreed in giving him for a gentle Purge (for he was very phlegmatick) one dram and half of Pil. Cochiae, dissolved in a little Sage-Water, by this he had three stools; yet he con∣tinued as he was.

7. At night, returning again, we anointed the whole Nape and the whole Back-bone with the Oyl of Turpentine, mixed with the Oyl of Foxes; and we did exhibit again Pil. Cochiae; but was nothing the better.

8. Afterwards the following Sternutatory was prescribed: Take white Hollebore, black Pepper, Staves acre, of each one scruple and half: beat them into a fine Pouder, and then by a Quill put it up into the Nostrils.

9. But this also did no good, for it did not cause Sneezing, which without Controversy was a mortal Sign; at the same time his Teeth being opened a little of the following Com∣pound was poured into his Mouth very often.

10. Take the Conserve of the Flowers of Rose∣mary, one ounce: Mithridate, half an ounce: choice Treacle, three drams: Oxymel simple, and Squills, of each half an ounce; Syrup of Staechas, half an ounce: mix them; neither was any thing the better by this, for he dyed the third night. Petrus Forestus, Lib. 10. Observ. 103.

LXXV. A Convulsion arising from a pain in the Joints.

1. A certain noble Woman having a long time kept her Chamber by pains in the Joynts; and growing thereby flegmatick, she was sadly afflicted almost every year with the Gout; and at length the pituitous matter being imbibed in the Nerves, she had a mighty Convulsion.

2. Among many things we prescribed for Diet, this one thing we thought convenient to be taken in stead of Wine, viz, a kind of Mead, made of the Decoction of Marjoram, Sage, Betony with a little Cinnamon and Honey.

3. We did commend frictions of the Verte∣brae and Neck, and that she would avoid all per∣turbations of the mind; and to keep the Bo∣dy always in a good Temper; we ordered for her the following Clyster: Take roots of Marsh-Mallows, white Lillies, of each half an ounce: Sage, Betony, Hysop, Rue, of each one hand∣ful: the Flowers of Carduus Benedictus, Rose∣mary, Cammomil, Centaury the lesser, Herb Mercury, of each one handful and half: Stae∣chas, one pugil: Carthamus-seed, half an ounce: Caraway and Fennel-seed, one dram and half: Polyp••dy, half an ounce: Bran, one pugil: white Agarick, one dram and half: boyl them all together in common Water; to one pound of the straining I add Benedictum laxa∣tivum, half an ounce: Electuary of Hiera Pi∣cra, three drams: Oyl of Lillies, Oyl of Cam∣momil, of each one ounce and half: with a lit∣tle Salt make a Clyster.

4. But if this will not do because of the hard∣ness of the Belly, I would advise a more emol∣lient Clyster of the Decoction of Mallows and Marsh-Mallows, &c.

5. The minoration of the pituitous matter being made by Pil. Hierae simplex; we endea∣voured for the better Evacuation of the same to render the matter more thin and fluxile by Syrups made of the Decoction of Sage, Marjo∣ram, Ground-Pine, Germander, Hysop, and the like, the Syrup of Staechas, Honey of Roses, and the Syrup of Betony being added.

6. First for Purgation we exhibited these fol∣lowing Pills: Take Pills of Assajaret and

Agarick trochiscated, of each half a dram: with Honey of Roses make seven Pills.

7. Let her take afterwards the following A∣pozem: Take the bark of the roots of Barsley, Fennel, Butchers-Broom, Asparagus, of each half an ounce: the Flowers of Rosemary, one pugil: Hysop, Marjoram, Sage, Germander, Ground-Pine, Betony, of each one handful: An∣nise and Fennel, one dram and half: Cartha∣mus-seeds, half an ounce: Polypody of the Oak, one ounce: Tyme, one pugil: make a Decocti∣on in water; to one pound of the straining you may add Syrup of Staechas, Calamint, Honey of Ro∣ses strained, of each one ounce: aromatize it with a little Cinnamon, Mace, and Nutmeg: and let it be after the manner of a Claret.

8. I did purge her again with the following Pills: Take Pil. Faetidae, Cochiae, Pil. Hermo¦dactylis, of each one scruple: Castoreum, three grains: make seven Pills.

9. And after I had used dry Cupping-glas∣es with Scarification in the shoulder blades and hipps, we then made use of Masticatories and Apophlegmatisms; for these not only divert but also draw the matter from the Head and hinder the Defluction thereof from the Brain to the Nape and Vertebrae: Treacle, Mithridate, Di∣amoschi, Conserve of the Flowers of Sage and Rosemary were taken; and outwardly the Back∣bone, as also the other convulsed Members were first anointed with the Oyl of Foxes and Earth-Worms, then with the Oyl of Costus and an Ointment made of Bdellum; rowling all up in the skin of a Wolf.

10. The Members were for some time kept in a Decoction of Whelps in Wine and Oyl.

11, And that Experiment of Nicholas which resolves and remits the pain was not neglected; Take a fat Goose, open it and throw away the Gar∣bish, and after you have put into the Belly there∣of a Cat cut in small peices with Lard, Myrrh, and Frankincense; sow it up; putting it on a Spit, which roast, then set a Dish under it where∣in is Vinegar; in which the first Fat dropping, was laid aside; but that which distilled after∣wards was reserved for Ʋse.

12. Let the Goose after this be boyled in the said Vinegar, and the greatest part of the Fat will be separated, and will swim above the Vine∣gar, which being mixed with the first, anoin•• therewith the convulsed Members.

13. I have known some to be freed from pain by using only a Bath of common Oyl with a Decoction of Earth-Worms; but the Members must be contained within the hot Oyl, and a Plaister of Earth-Worms must be applyed to the affected Parts.

14. Caesar Landulphus said he was cured by Cats-mint, common Oyl, Worms, and the Oyl of F••xes; although he had a Convulsion in his Hipps and Leggs; it returning about half a year after, was presently well by taking Sarsa-Paril∣la. Forestus, Lib. 10. Observ. 104.

LXXVI. A Convulsion in an old Man.

1. A certain old man of Delf, having a Con∣vulsion in his Neck and Arm, I exhibited to him Pil. Cochiae with a small quantity of Casto∣reum, afterwards I gave him Pil. Cochiae & Fetidae; and his Neck also being anointed with the Oyl of Lillies, Earth-Worms, and Foxes, this old Man recovered even to a Miracle.

2. Also another sick Person was freed from Convulsions thus; a Vein was opened, then a De∣coction was made of Sage, Betony, Marjoram, Staechas, and the like; to which was added also Syrup of Staechas; and the Pills above mention∣ed were exhibited, then Errhins and cephalick Purges were administred.

3. After this we came to use Topicks; first anointing the parts with Oyl of Lillies and Cam∣momil, and then for greater Discussion we pro∣ceeded to the use of the Oyls of Rue, Bays, Orris, Ducks and Goose grease, and at length of Petroleum; a little Aqua Vitae being added, as also a little of the Pouder of Castoreum, with Marsh-Mallows and Martiatum. Forestus, Lib. 10. Observ. 106.

LXXVII. A Convulsion from too great Re∣pletion of the pituitous Juice.

1. A Man drowsy and flegmatick, every day filling himself with thick Beer; and living a ve∣ry idle life; being about the age of forty, fell suddenly into a Convulsion of the Arms and Leggs.

2. Having understood by several Causes and Signs that his Convulsions proceeded from too great plenty of the pituitous Juice or Humors; I ordered that according to Celsus, he should keep a continual Fire in his Chamber, it being cold Weather, which does certainly offend the Parts.

3. I took care that the Belly was kept in a good Temper; the Cream of Ptisan was orde∣red for him as a Diet, as also rear Eggs, Chick∣ens, or a Broth in which Hysop, the Mother of Tyme, Sage, Elder, Savory were boyled.

4. I praescribed to him a Clyster, which ha∣ving purged him sufficiently, I ordered him to use twice a day continually the following De∣coction: Take Sage, Marjoram, Cowslipps, Betony, Bay-leaves, the flowers of Rosemary, and Staechas, of each one handful: make a De∣coction in Aqua Mulsa, for one pint.

5. Afterwards I purged him with the fol∣lowing Pills: Take Pil. Cochiae, and Fetidae, and of Agarick, of each one scruple: with Be∣tony water make five Pills; after the purge of Actius, I did exhibite one dram of Castoreum with Sage-Water.

6. After one or two days, (his Head being purged again with Errhines and Apophlegma∣tisms) I ordered one dram of choice Treacle with two ounces of Aqua Mulsa.

7. And I anointed his Neck, Back-bone, and the inferior Vertebrae, with the Oyl of Spike, of Costus, and Castoreum, the Oyl of Pepper, and Earth-Worms; by which Remedies he was at length cured. Petrus Forestus, Lib. 10. Observ. 107.

LXXVIII. A Convulsion from outragious Choler.

1. One dwelling in the City of Delf, who was intemperate and a great Feeder, fell under the Praedominancy of fierce and sharp Choler by reason of continual Crudities; being taking with a violent Griping and Evacuation, as well above as below; he fell into swooning Fits, which brought him into a Convulsion of the Hands and Feet, and a Contraction almost of all the Mus∣cles.

2. For the Muscles of his Breast, Throat, Neck, Back, and Belly were so convulsed, that every one that saw him, looked upon him as one just ready to expire; for subduing of this stub∣born Malady I proposed the following Drink for cleansing the Ventricle from that sharp and gnawing Humor.

3. Take the Decoction of Barley not husked, three ounces: Syrup of the manifold Infusion of red Roses, one ounce: mix them:

4. By this he vomited up many cholerick hu∣mors; and had several watery Stools.

5. For his swooning, his Face was often sprink∣led with Water, and Wine was often held to him to smell at; Frictions were also used; af∣terwards both for repressing the Impetuosity of Choler, Vomiting and Loosness, as also his great Thirst and frequent Swooning: Take Rob de Ribes, two ounces: Rob of Cherries, Syrup of Quinces, of each one ounce: Lozenges of Sugar pearled, one ounce and half: mix them.

6. For those Contractions and Convulsions of the Muscles, I ordered that the Calves of the Leggs and the Muscles of the Breast should be anointed with the following Liniment: Take of the Oyl of Orrice, of the Oyl of Earth-worms, of each two ounces: Castoreum pulverized, four scruples: mix them; by the use of this with strong Frictions those Contractions were great∣ly abated.

7. When we saw the Distemper in the decli∣nature, we strengthened and nourished him with Milk of sweet Almonds with a little Bean-Wa∣ter, at length we recovered him by good Diet.

8. But when the former Symptoms had ceased he was yet troubled with a Thirst, and after two or three days his Belly was so much bound that he could not go to stool; therefore I ordered him to take every Morning one spoonful of the Syrup of the Infusion of Roses, which had so good Effect that he got once every day a stool, and was delivered from his immoderate Heat and Thirst.

9. Having somtime after a pain in the bot∣tom of his Belly, it was anointed with the Oyl of Cammomil, and so the pain did vanish, and he did make water plentifully and grew well. Petrus F ••••stus, Lib. 10. Observ. 110.

LXXIX. A Convulsion of the Nerves of the Neck.

1. A certain Widow of Delf, about the age of fifty six, of a strong constitution, falling in∣to this Disease; we took from her eight ounces of Blood out of the middle Vein of the right Arm, and when we had set her Rules for Di∣et; we did cause her Neck which was very stiff to be anointed with the Oyl of Orris and Cam∣momil, and then to be covered with wooll dip∣ped in the Oyls.

2. Afterwards we ordered her the following potion: Take green Betony two handfuls: Fu∣metory, one handful: boyl them in a sufficient quantity of Betony water, and then take four ounces of the straining, syrup of Stachas, one ounce: syrup of Betony, half an ounce mix them.

3. At Night she appeared to be a little feaverish, which we looked upon to be a good sign, according as we find in Aphor. 57. lib. 4. a Feaver coming upon a Convulsion, does de∣liver the sick therefrom.

4, On the second she found some ease in her Neck; and because she complained of heat, in the place of the syrup of Betony we mixed sy∣rup of Violets with the preceeding syrup; and then exhibited the following purging decoction: Take Sage Betony, Fumitory, Violets, of each one handful: Annis-seed, one dram and half: Raisons stoned, one ounce: Damasens, num∣ber seven; leaves of Senna, six drams: Agarick trochiscated, one dram: let them boyl in the waters of Betony and Fumitory, of each four ounces and half: let them stand for a small while infused, and to a strong Expression, add syrup of Staechas and Fumitory, with syrup of Violets, of each half an ounce: mix them for two doses.

5. Having taken one of them in the Morning she voided much pituitous stinking, feculent and Melancholy Excrements; the next day she took the remainder of the potion, by which she had six stools.

6. She did always every day anoint her Neck with the above nam'd Oyls, wherein the wool of the neck of a Ram was diped; on the fourth day she was perfectly freed from this troublesom malady. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 111.

LXXX. An Emprosthotonon.

1. An antient Woman being afflicted with this Disease, which propperly signifies a Con∣vulsion of the parts inward; desired my Ad∣vice, whom finding to be old, and the Disease so too, and the convulsed members being very hard and stiff, her Head inclining to her Breast: I would by no means undertake to cure her; yet I was willing to give her my Advice; and so I ordered her to use the following Oynt∣ment.

2. Take the roots of Marsh-mallows boyled, three ounces: strain it through a sive and add thereto the Oyl of Lillies and Foxes, of each one ounce: our Emplaster of Ammoniacum, Goose and Hens grease, the marrow of the legg of an Hart, of each half an ounce: liquid Sto∣rax, two drams: Ʋnguentum Agrippae, three drams: the powder of Sage, and Rosemary, of each two scruples: Sulphur Castoreum, of each one scruple: with a little Wax and Turpentine, make an Oyntment for the part affected, and let the Neck be covered all over with the skin of a Wolf. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 113.

LXXXI. An old Convulsion with a hardness of the Nerve.

1. A certain Maid being taken first with an Epilepsy, and continuing in that Convulsion, was often for the space of a whole week shaken and convulsed, and that so vehemently that her Leggs all her life long were convulsed and stiff, nei∣ther could she ever walk; she always fat in a Chair; and her condition was so bad that her Leggs almost touched her Knees and Belly.

2. Thus she lived above fifty two years; nei∣ther could she scarcely use her Hands; her Knees also were convulsed, insomuch they were drawn towards the Head.

3. For easing that pain which comes by the Convulsion of the parts, a dec••ction of the Intestines of Cows and Sheep with their own fat is good, or anointing the parts with common Oyl with which and the Oyl of O••ives,

the green flowers of Rosemary, gathered in the driest season, are to be shut up close in a glass bottle; which being done, set it in the Sun all the canicular days; then strain it by ex∣pression.

4. But if the above named flowers be ma∣cerated in the Oyls of Lillies, of Foxes, of Earth∣worms, and Oyl of Melilot, o•• the Oyl of Mu∣cilages, they will be a much better Medicine.

5. Ex scholia ejusdem, for an Oyntment: Take the Oyl of Lillies, Oyl of bitter Al∣monds, Oyl de Kerva, fex olei lilliorum, the Lees of common Oyl; all these are mild.

6. A stronger sort are the Oyls of Pepper, of Costus, Bdellium and Saffron; but these are less convenient because they resolve much: the fatts to be used are such, as that of a Hen, Swallow, Porke, Duck, Mutton-sewet, and the fat o•• an Eel.

7. A stronger kind of fat, is the fat of a Cat, Goose, Libbard, Bear, Lion, Ass, Viper, to which you may add these following Marrows; such according to Rondeletius is the mildest.

8. Take Oyl of sweet Almonds and Lillies, of each four ounces: the fat of a Hen, Goose, Porke, of each four ounce: the Marrow of a Calfs Legg, two ounces: Mucilage, of Lime-seed, one ounce and half: with a little Wax make an Oyntment, to which add two drams of Castoreum.

9. This following is stronger: Take the Fae∣ces of the Oyl of Lillies, the Oyl de Kerva or Sesamen, of each four ounces: the fat of a Goose, Bear and of a Man, or of a Cat, of each two ounces: Mucilage of line-seed, and Faenu-greek, of each one ounce and half: Virgins bees-wax, three ounces: Bdellium dissolved in Wine, half an ounce: Castoreum, two drams: Pyre∣thrum, one dram: with a sufficient quantity of Wax make an Oyntment.

10. The strongest of all is the following: Take the Oyl of Foxes, one pound: the Oyl of Lillies and Daffodil, of each four ounces: the fat or blood of a Swallow, two ounces: the fat of a roasted Eel, two ounces: Bdellium dissol∣ved in the Vinegar of squills, half an ounce: Liquid Styrax, one ounce: Earth-worms well bruised, four ounces: Castoreum, two drams: red Styrax, three drams: Honey of Anacar∣diums, half an ounce: or old Treacle, one ounce: with a sufficient quantity of Wax, make an Oyntment.

11. If the Members be hard and distended because of the cold humors; they are to be cured with hot remedies, which are such as the Oynt∣ments of Marsh-mallows, Oesypus, Emplaister of Melilot, if dissolved in the Oyl of Lillies, or in the Oyl of Line-seed or in the Oyl of Sesa-men. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 114.

LXXXII. A Convulsion from a distemper in the Womb.

1. A certain Virgin, by reason of the cor∣ruption of her seed, fell into Convulsions of her whole Body; to whom being called; I held to her Nostrills Assa Faetida, Castoreum, and the like.

2. Afterward applying to her Navel the fol∣lowing Emplaster: Take Emplastrum con∣tra matricem, spread it upon Leather, about the bredth of a Crown, and that it may stick the better, spread Galbanum, round the edges thereof.

3. I gave her also the following powder in a spoonful or two of beer, not Wine, it being hurtful to the Brain, Nerves and Womb, espe∣cially when the Womb is afflicted with any suf∣focation.

4. Take the seeds of Daucus, and Master-wort, (or in the place of seeds, if they cannot be had, take the root) the root of Gentian, of each one scruple: make a subtle powder to be divi∣ded into two parts: and to be taken as above-said. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10 Observ. 115.

LXXXIII. A Convulsion from the Womb, and by eating of Mushrooms.

1. A certain Maid living in the Hague, from a suffocation of the Womb, fell into most hor∣rible convulsive fits, insomuch that the Mandi∣ble being convulsed, her Mouth was shut very close, and her Head was pulled backwards, whilst she was in the Paroxysm, he Eyes were convulsed as also her Hands and Feet.

2. Another Physician did make for her, oderi∣ferous nodules to be held in the Womb, as also

odorificks for the Nostrils, and did apply Cup∣ping-glasses to the huckle-bone.

3. These availing little or nothing, we pro∣posed opening of a vein, which being done, even to admiration, the symptoms were abated.

4. Afterwards a decoction was prepared of Cephalick herbs, and such as were proper for the Womb and Nerves, as the following: Take Sage, Cowslips, Betony, Mugwort, Fetherfew, Staechas, the leaves of Senna, Agarick, Ani-seeds and a little Ginger, (boyl in water and) make a decoction. When she had taken twice of the decoction; she was purged enough and grew presently well.

5. Ex scholio ejusdem; This digestive sy∣rup is good because of the Mushrooms? Take syrup of Fether few, of Betony, of Hysop, of each half an ounce: the water of Origanum, Hysop, Fennel, of each two ounces: mix them.

6. Take Agarick trochiscated, Oxymel of squills two drams: Electuarium Eleschoph; Diacarthamum, of each two drams and half: with the Decoction of Hysop, Origanum, Penny-royal, of each a sufficient quantity; mix them and make a Cathar••ick potion; by this she grew well.

7. Afterwards I advised her to take for three days one after another fasting, one dram of Treacle in a glass of generous wine. Pe∣rus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 116.

LXXXIV. A Convulsion arising from the pricking of a Nerve.

1. A young Man with a pen-knif accidental∣ly pricked one of the Nerves in the top of his Finger, an unskilful Chyrurgeon, coming to him, applyed a Medicine which presently closed up the Wound: upon which a pain arose which with a light Convulsion creeping up his Arm, greatly afflicting him.

2. Another Chyrurgeon was sent for, who immediately applyed an Anodyn made of the Crummes of white Bread with Saffron and the yolks of Eggs raw, by which the pain was som∣what abated.

3. My advice being also asked, I ordered the Surgeon, to keep the Wound open, and that he would add to his own Cataplasm Earth-worms alive and washed well in Wine.

4. And for his Convulsion, that he would anoint the whole Arm as well as the Finger with the Oyl of Earth-worms, and then apply the Oyl of Turpentine to the Wound, if there was occasion; by these he grew well. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 119.

LXXXV. A Convulsion from a Wound in the Throat.

1. A Baker in Delf being wounded by a shot in that part of the nape of the Neck declining to the seventh Spondula; there grew a kernel which grievously afflicted both Neck and Throat; going from the hinder to the fore-part under the Chin.

2. When at any time he drank or took any liquid supping meat, it went out by the wound, unless the wound was stopped hard and com∣pressed by a Cloth; the Nerve about the se∣venth Vertebra being broken, it leading to the Hand, his whole left Hand was taken with a Palsy.

3. About the seventh day after this disaster he was taken with a Convulsion of his Shoul∣ders, the left Arm and Fingers, there was al∣so a Contraction of the left Ey.

4. My Advice being desired; I ordered be∣cause he was costive, the following suppository: Take pil. Hierae picrae, two scruples: the pow∣der of Alhandal trochiscated, half a scruple: with a sufficient quantity of Honey and a little Salt, make a Suppository.

5. Having taken this he went to stool, but his Excrements were hard and black, as if they contained coagulated Blood.

6. The Blood coming from the wound and falling down on the Stomach, some portion thereof descended to the Intestines; if much had fallen, it would have caused putrefaction and then a Feaver.

7. Although he had no Feaver, yet his Urine was not without some Tincture; he had a Thirst; therefore for cleansing of the wound and cure of his thirst, I ordered him the fol∣lowing Syrups.

8. Take Syrup of Lemons, two ounces: Sy∣rup

of the Infusion of Roses, one ounce and half: mix them, and let them be taken often.

9. And because his Excrement was hard after the suppository, I gave him the same day one ounce of fresh Cassia in posset-drink; which having taken gave him two stools.

10. For his Throat and light Cough, I gave him the following Lohoch; which he was al∣ways to lick: Take syrup of Violets, syrup of the infusion of Roses, of each one ounce: Sugar pe∣neds, half an ounce: make a Lambitive, which use with a liquirish-stick.

11. At Night because he lay always upon his Reins, we caused his Loyns near the Reins to be anointed with the Oyl of Roses; and be∣cause of the Convulsion and resolution the Chy∣rurgeon by our Direction anointed the Back-bone and nape with the Oyl of Earth-worms; to which was added the Oyl of Hypericon.

12. His Belly being yet hard we prescribed the retaking of the above named Suppository.

13. Twice a day his wound was dressed, and in the hinder part of the Nape a Tent was put, but not in the forepart, although the wound reached thither.

14. In the mean time we prescribed the fol∣lowing Decoction: Take Colts-Foot, Barley husked, of each one handful: Centaury the les∣ser, Sanicle, Hypericon, Maiden-hair, of each one pugil: Raisons stoned, one ounce: Liquo∣rish cut in pieces, half an ounce: Jujubes, Sebe∣stens, of each number, five: Polypody of the Oak, half an ounce: Boyl them in Water, and to one pound of the straining add Syrup of the Infusion of red Roses, three ounces: mix them for an A∣pozem.

15. But being again bound, I prescribed the following Potion: Take the Leaves of Sena clean∣sed from their Stalks, three drams: Aniseeds, half a dram: choice Rhubarh, one dram: Schae nanthus, half a scruple: Boyl them, which done, infuse all night in five ounces of the above mentio∣ned Apozem; he took four ounces of the Ex∣pression with one ounce of the Syrup of the In∣fusion of Roses; by which Potion he had one stool.

16. Therefore the day after he took the half of the following Potion: Take the Leav••s of Sena, six drams: Rhuharb, one dram and half: Aniseeds, one dram: Schaenanthus, half a scru∣ple: Boyl them gently, and then infuse them into nine ounces of the Decoction all night; in the Morning give the half, it being strongly expres∣sed, with the Syrup of Betony, and Violets, of each half an ounce: mix them, by this he had three stools; neither was he then feaverish.

17. Not long after most greivous Convulsi∣ons hapened in his left Arms and Fingers, inso∣much that he could neither eat nor sleep, his Condition then was so bad that we looked upon him as one ready to expire.

18. Therefore we ordered this Sear-cloath to be applyed to his Neck, and the Neck with the Back-bone to be anointed with the following Oyls, the Arm, Fingers, Arm-Pits are like∣wise to be anointed with the same Oyl and fo∣mented with unwashed Wool.

19. Take the Oyl of Earth-Worms, one ounce: Oyl of sweet Almonds, and D••••l, of each half an ounce: common Oyl, Oyl of Lillies, of each three drams: the Fat of a Goose, one ounce: mix them for a Liniment.

20. The Searcloath which is to be applyed to the Nape of the Neck is such as follows: Take the Oyl of Earth Worms, one ounce: Oyl of sweet Almonds, and Oyl of Dill, of each half an ounce: common Oyl, three drams: the Fat of a Hen, Goose, and Calf, of each half an ounce: the Fat of a Duck, two drams: the Pouder of Earth-Worms dried, half an ounce: the Pouder of the Flowers of Hypericon dried, two drams: with a sufficient quantity of Wax, make a Sear∣cloath according to Art, adding a little Tur∣pentine for the better Consistency of the whole: let it be put on a linnen Cloath and apply it to the Nape.

21. Then for cleansing and consolidation the following Potion was prescribed: Take Barley, one pugil: Agrimony; Sanicle the lesser, white Daisy, of each one handful: Centaury the lesser, red Coleworts, of each half an handful: the roots of Comfrey the greater, one ounce: Liquorish scraped, six drams: Boyl them in Water till the Barley burst, to one pound of the strained Li∣quor add the Syrup of the Infusion of R••s••s, three ounces: make an Apozem for four Doses.

22. He took often of these Syrups: Take the Syrup of Pomegranats, the Syrup of the Infusi∣on of Roses, of each one ounce and half: mix them.

23. Having in vain used the above mentioned Suppository; I gave him for his Costiveness four ounces of the Infusion above named, adding thereto one ounce of the Syrup of Violets; by this he went to stool five times.

24. We ordered him because he was weak, a small parcel of the Lozenges of Sugar pearled; afterwards he began to grow better, and his wound came by little and little to a Consolida∣tion.

25. There was also prescribed again half an ounce of the Unguent of Roses for the Loins to be anointed with, and for his Arm and Throat only the Oyl of sweet Almonds.

26. Presently after his paralitick Arm was fomented with Lavender-Water, three ounces: Aqua Vitae, one ounce: mix them.

27. The Convulsions with pains returning a∣gain, this following Cataplasm was applied to the whole Arm: Take the Flowers of Cammo∣mil, Melilot, of each four handfuls: the Leaves of Worm-wood, two handfuls; the Tops of Dill, one handful: Boyl them to a softness in thick Beer, then add Earth-Worms, two pugils: Oyl of Foxes and Roses, of each one pugil: this did not only mitigate the pains, but did asswage the Convulsions and Inflations.

28. Moreover this Apozem was used: Take Sage, Betony, Hypericon, Vervin, Fumitary, Borage, Bugloss, of each one handful: the Cor∣dial Flowers, one pugil: Aniseeds, two drams: Barley cleansed, one pugil: the Leaves of Se∣na, seven drams: Polypody of the Oak, half an ounce: Raisons stoned, one ounce: Liquorish scraped, half an ounce: Damask Prunes, num∣ber nine: Boyl them in Water, to nine ounces of the strongest Colature add Syrup of the Infusion of Roses, two ounces: Syrup of Betony, one ounce: mix them, make an Apozem for three Dos••es, to be taken in the Morning.

29. Every day twice or thrice he went to stool, his wound began now to be consolidated, first in the forepart, then in the hinder, which to me seemed very strange.

30. He yet feeling Convulsions and Pains through out the whole Arm, we ordered that his Arm, up to his Arm-Pits should be anointed with the following Liniment: Take Oyls of Dill, Cammomil, Lillies, Earth-Worms, Foxes, of each half an ounce: the Oyl of Melilot, three drams: mix them; this did egregiously abate the pain, and then the Cataplasm was no more used.

31. When a few days were passed we ordered that the whole Arm should be bathed in a Bath made of the D••coction of Beer with Herbs, which might strengthen the Nerves, mitigate the pain, and ease the contracted Members, as the roots of white Lillies; Marsh-Mallows, Flowers of Cam∣momil, Melilot, garden and wild Sage, Worm∣wood, Hypericon, Mugwort, Earth-Worms, being added.

32. Omitting for a while these kinds of Baths we commanded that he should be anointed with the following Liniment: Take Oyl of Foxes, one ounce and half: Oyl of Hypericon, Oyl of Earth-Worms, of each half an ounce: Oyl of Spike, two drams: Ʋnguentum Martiatum, the Fat of a Badger, of a Goose, of a Cat, of each three drams: Deers Marrow, three drams: mix them and make a Liniment.

33. He could now move his Fingers, and al∣though he felt somtimes a kind of Stupefaction in his left paralitick Leg; yet he could go up∣rightly, not without some trouble, therefore we ordered him to be anointed with the following Oyls; Take Oyl of Foxes, two ounces: Oyl of Turpentine, one ounce: Oyl of Costus, half an ounce: mix them, by this Ointment he was helped; insomuch that he could walk without any Difficulty.

34. He did complain of the pain of his arm, and the contraction of his Fingers, I advised him to anoint the parts affected with Dogs Fat only; and after anointing the pain by Degrees vanished away; but the Arm was wrapped up in a wild Cats skin, and the Contractions by little and little ceased. Petrus Forestus, Lib. 10. Observ. 122.

LXXXVI. A Convulsion from a fall.

1. A Carpenter falling from a great hight,

broke his left Legg and Elbow; he also receiv∣ed some hurt in his Head, and about his Eye, his Legg was broken without any wound, but his Cubit with a wound.

2. The following potion was given him: Take the Decoction of the leaves of Sena, and Rhu∣barb; decoctum Commune, of each a sufficient quantity, which sweeten with the syrup of the juice of Roses, adding one scruple, of Mum∣my and Nutmeg, half a scuple: this did gent∣ly purge him, by which he semed to be better.

3. After two or three days Intermission he took the same potion again, which had so good an Effect that he did evacuate coagulated Blood, and much pituitous matter.

4. On the sixth day by a fall in the Night he fell into Convulsions, his Daughter at first sight, thought that her Father laughed, which we concluded to be a Sardonick laughter, pre∣saging lamentably bad Convulsions.

5. Immediately in the fit his Mouth was closed together, and his whole Body was con∣vulsed; we predicted death to him unless the Convulsion did cease within the fourth day.

6. Many proper Medicines were applied; which did not contribute much to his relief; on the seventh day his Urine was stopped by the Convulsion, but his Privy parts being anointed with the Oyl of Scorpions; he immediately rendred his Urine; neither could he swallow any sustenance.

7. His Distemper growing worse and worse, he dyed on the seventh Night of his Disease, in one of his convulsive fits. Petrus Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 123.

LXXXVII. A Cynick Convulsion or the tor∣ture of the Mouth.

1. A Man about sixty six years of age, was taken with a cananine Convulsion or the tor∣ture of the Mouth: coming to him, I ordered a Clyster, which he not taking I prescribed the following syrup.

2. Take Oxymel simple, syrup of Staechas, Ho∣ney of Roses strained, of each half an ounce: water of Betony, Sage, and Hysop, of each one ounce: mix them.

3. Then I gave him the following Pill: Take Pil. hiera simplex, Agarick trochiscated, of each half a dram: with syrup of Staechas, make five Pills; which he took a good while after he sup∣ped, they gave him two stools.

4. Returning the next day to visit him, and finding his Urin red thick and muddy, I or∣dered Cupping-glasses to be applied to his Shoul∣ders, and a good quantity of Blood to be taken from him.

5. Then the syrup being again exhibited to him, I purged him with Pills proper against Convulsions. Forestus, lib. 10. Observ. 124.

6. If there should happen a fulness without a Crudity; a Clyster being first Injected, you may take from him some Blood, and diminish the matter by Pills; and digest the Flegm by digestive syrups.

7. Others would not have strong Medicines applied in the begining of the Disease nor sharp Clysters, nor strong purgatives and digestives; but must defer to the fourth day, or as some would have, to the seventh day: unless there be just fears of an approaching Epilepsy or Apo∣plexy.

8. The matter is to be digested with this or the like Magisterial syrup: Take the roots of true Acorus, half an ounce: Betony, Marjo∣ram, Origanum, Cowslips, Hysop, Rosemary, of each one handful: the flowers of both Stachas's, one pugil: boyl them in Sage and Betony waters, in a double Vessel; add to the straining syrup of Stae∣chas, three ounces: Aromatise it with Nut∣meg; and make an Apozeme, Or, a sufficient quantity of Honey being added; boyl them to the consistency of a Magisterial syrup.

9. Or make use of this or the like Melicrat: Take the roots of the true Acorus, half an ounce: Staechas, one handful: boyl them in a quart of water and to the strained liquor, add half a pound more or less of Honey; make clarifyed Mead, which aromatize with one dram of Nutmeg.

10. Let him be purged by little and little, first with Pill Cochiae and Hierae, then with Pil. Fetidae and Cochiae but if he cannot swallow Pills, he may take this following potion.

11. Take Diacatholicon, half an ounce: Electuary of Dates, or Diaphaenicon, one dram

and half: Electuary Elescoph, one dram: Electuary Indij Majoris, two scruples and half: with three ounces of the above-mentioned decoction or Mead, honey of Roses strained, half an ounce; mix them and make a potion.

12. If a stronger is needful, let him be purg∣ed with Hiera Pachij and Hiera Scribonij.

13. But if the Malady be not yet mitiga∣ted, the Veins under the Tongue are to be open∣ed, then frictions of all the members, as Hands and Feet &c. are to be used. Ex scholio ejus∣dem.

LXXXVIII. A Convulsion in a Youth.

1. A Youth was so miserably convulsed that he could not any ways bend his Back; by the following remedy he could presently walk.

2. Take rank old Butter, old Lard, of each three ounces: Bdellium, Ammoniacum, of each one ounce: Myrrh, Castoreum, of each three drams: flowers of Staechas, and Rosemary, of each one pugil: Nutmegs, Cloves, of each one dram: a little Cat emboweled, skinned, and cut in pei∣ces; with this infarse the Belly of a Goose, sow it up and then roast it.

3. The first juice that comes from it, is to be cast away, the second is to preserved in a ves∣sel han••full of Vinegar; therewith anoint the Back; this is a Divine Medicine. Petrus Pa∣chequus, Observ. 8.

LXXXIX. A Convulsion in a certain No∣ble Person.

1. A certain noble person being afflicted with most severe pains proceeding from violent Convulsions; Guillandinus commanded him to be dipt into a Barrel of Oyl; by which he was much refreshed.

2. Coral by its own natural property (saies Heurnius) is good for a Convulsion that pro∣ceeds from Emptiness; and the same Author says, That Convulsions that come from repleti∣on are much helped by the application of hot and dry Medicines; as the decoction of Peony, lignum Guajacum, Sarsa-parilla, Sassafras, Treacle, Mithridate, Castoreum &c.

3. He further alledges, That in Convulsi∣ons that proceed from a Plethory, blood let∣ing, and then a Bath of hot Oyl are conveni∣ent.

XC. The Convulsion Opisthotonus in a Child.

1. Hieronymus Cardanus said, That he cu∣red a Child of seventeen months old of the Opi∣sthotonus Convulsion, by three sorts of helps, to wit; abstinence from flesh, Wine and Eggs, cloths diped in the Oyl of Cammomil and Lillies, applied to the Neck, and other parts convulsed.

2. And a confected Medicament made of Mithridate, with triple Sugar of Roses, pearles Jacincts and Emeralds.

XCI. Convulsions in an Infant Prince.

1. There is no remedy more profitable than the Embrocation of the hinder part of the Head, the nape and Neck with the Oyl of Violets indifferent warm; I used this to Lo∣dowick Prince of Pidemont, who in the time of his Infancy was afflicted with a Disease, called St. Antonie's-fire in his Thigh, and an A∣postume near the huckle-bone and Joints of his hip; with a Feaver.

2. Of which being indifferently well reco∣vered he fell into a Convulsion caused by dry∣ness; crying out perpetually; and by ver∣tue of the same Disease his Head was contract∣ed towards the hinder parts; so that he could not suck the Breast.

3. I anointed the nape and whole hinder part of his Head and Neck with Oyl of Vio∣lets made prety warm, causing the Oyl to fall from a good height, and with my Hand expres∣sing a Rag which was dipt therein, and that for the space of a quarter of an hour, and so by embrocating he began to sleep.

4. Immediately I wiped his Head with warm cloths by a gentle frication; being a∣wake, after three or four hours sleep, he sucked Milk without any difficulty.

5. The same symptoms returning once or twice; the same remedy being reiterated, he was made perfectly well: Petrus Bayrus, Pract. lib. 2. cap. 20.

XCII. A Convulsion in the Abdomen and Intestines.

1. When I was student at Pudua, I saw a young Man whose Intestines and whole Abdo∣men were convulsed; his testes and spermatick vessells under the Mouth of the privy parts were hidden, there was also an extension of the Hypochondria.

2. He was of constitution cold; having a cold Stomach and sweaty; the Diaphragma being oppressed he fetched his wind thick and short; and was demented whilst he was in the Paroxysm.

3. The masters of the vniversity did exhibit to him such Medicines as did discuss the flatu∣ous humors, and by digesting and purging would overcome the cold matter and strengthen the intestines.

4. First a Clyster was injected of the de∣coction of Dill, with Hiera, Honey of Roses, and Oyl of Cammomil; then by a decoction of Agrimony and Parsly he was prepared.

5. Afterwards he was purged with pil. Au∣reae and Alephanginae; every other day a Cly∣ster was repeated.

6. He was anointed with the Oyl of Rue, and Castoreum, somtimes he took one Pill of Ca∣storeum with the syrup of Betony.

7. He also did drink wine wherein was Sage and Betony; his Leggs were likewise rub∣bed. Jo. Heurnius, cap. 26. de morb.

8. There was an old woman who had pains of the Arms, Shoulders and Knees with a Con∣vulsion, having used many remedies in vain, at length by applying burnt Malago to her side; there being added the leaves of Bays, Nep, Staechas, Marjoram, Rosemary, Origanum and Sage, as also a fumigation and sweat; being taken she grew very well. Solenander, Cons. 15. sect. 5.

XCIII. A flatulent Convulsion.

1. This following Liniment is Excellent good for that Disease: Take the fat of a little Bitch, to which add the flowers of Germander and La∣vender, of each two handfuls: Ground pine, Rosemary; Hysop, of each one pugil: Earth-worms washed in wine, number seven; Castore∣um, two drams: Turpentine and Honey of each one ounce: these being cut and bruised, take a fat Goose, which deplumate and eviscerate, then wash it in Wine and roast it, putting under the spit a vessel wherein is generous wine mixed with a little water, and reserving for use the fat that drops therein from the said Goose.

2. This has been found-by experience to have don much good in Convulsions of this na∣ture: Take Foxes fat, and if that cannot be had, take the fat of a Dog; mix therewith some grains of Pepper grossely bruised, with a small quantity of generous Wine, or Aqua vi∣tae; boyl them over a gentle fire to the consump∣tion of the Wine, strain the fat through a lin∣nen cloth and reserve it for use: rubb there∣with the convulsed members. Reinerus So∣lenander, Cons: 23. sect. 2.

XCIV. A Dog-like Convulsion or Cramp.

1. A Woman aged four and thirty, fell in∣to a Disease which by some is called a Ca∣nine or Dog-like Convulsion, which is a Reso∣lution of the mandibular Muscles; the Mouth, Lips, Nose, Eyes, and Face of this miserable Woman was very often in an hour distorted and distended somtimes to the right, somtimes to the left Side.

2. In the Fit she knew the By-standers, but speak she could not; being called to see her, I gave her thrice every quarter of an hour thir∣teen drops of our Oleum Heraclium; by this and Gods Blessing she began immediately to speak and was happily freed from this Disease. Martianus Rulandus, Cent. 4. Observ. 96.

XCV. A kind of Convulsion or Cramp in which the Head was twisted to the left Side.

1. A famous Merchant came to me com∣plaining of an old Disease, and I perceived it by his wry Neck. It came as he said, thus;

2. A year before, in the Winter approaching, he returned home out of Italy through the Alpes, and often suffered cold; and going o∣ver a Lake, he slept in the Boat, and when wa∣ked, was all over cold, and first he felt a pain in the Nape of the Neck.

3. This continued till his Head began to hang on the left side against his will, or a Contraction which still he had to the admiration of Be∣holders.

4. He had used many general and particu∣lar Medicines, and the Sulphur-Baths; and by them he found some Good, his Neck was not so stiff bent down as before.

5. He desired to know of me the cause, I proved it by many Arguments to be a kind of Cramp distinct from a Convulsion; such as when the Head is against the will drawn down; and when by voluntary Motion it is drawn up, it presently falleth down again.

6. I said, That the part affected was the Mus∣cles that moved the Head on that side, that came from the Neck and Back, and are fixed to the Head; and this comes from the distem∣per of them; and so as in the Cramp the sick part draws down the sound.

7. Hence it is that he found pain, not only in the Neck, but above in the Back from whence those long Muscles came that reach to the Head, and go this ways: Especially those Muscles suf∣fer in that part where they end in tendons, and broad Aponeuroses or Nerves, met in the up∣per part of the Nape of the Neck, and are fast∣ned to the Head.

8. Those Tendons bound up and so made shorter, always draw the Head on one side, ex∣cept by the contrary forcible motion of the head, they are drawn up for a little time; For when this voluntary forced motion ceased the Head is drawn aside again.

9. The Disease that maketh those membra∣nous, or nervous insertions or entrances to be bound, is a cold Distemper, which is an Enemy to the Nerves and Membrans, and also to the bloody parts, hurting them and making them shorter, by binding them, so that they will scarce be brought to their former shape.

10. This cold Distemper came from cold Air, which sooner gets into those parts naked.

11. Moreover he being prone to sweat, his Body was suddenly cooled; and therefore the hurt was worse in that part, because he used to go bare headed when he sweat and wiped him∣self.

12. After this Discourse he desired my Ad∣vice, though I doubted of the Cure: being it was an old and stubborn Infirmity, and the Ten∣dons were dry and hard, yet I would try an E∣mollient proper Ointment for the Nerves, which I prescribed him.

13. About the end of December he wrote that for twelve days he anointed the Nape of the Neck and all the Back-bone, which I command∣ed not, but only the Neck behind, an•• that there was a soft Tumor risen against his left shoulder-blade, and like two knots in the hinder part of the Neck that pained him, and his Cramp con∣tinued.

14. A month, after about the end of January, he wrote to me to take in hand the cure at the Spring; that there were Bladders, where he anointed, and water flow'd from them when they were broken.

15. This I shewed him came not from the Head, for the Defluctions from his Head went another way; but the emollient Ointment open∣ing the Pores, caused the water under the Skin to transpire.

16. I prescribed the Emollients to be re∣peated in form of Fomentations, Emplasters, Cataplasms, and gave Pills to keep the Body clean, and such as were proper for the Nerves.

17. I advised to go to the Sulphur-Bath at Spring; by which he formerly found good; he used these Remedies till May, and had an Issue in each Arm, yet the Disease was as before.

18. He went to the Spaw and there stayed u∣sing it three weeks, and sweat much, and he commanded that Water to be constantly pour∣ed upon his Neck; coming from the Baths to me, he shewed that his Head was not as before, drawn on the left side, but could stand upright, and could look upon men; and no-body took notice of his wry Neck.

19. But another Accident happened, he could not turn his Head to the left side, and that in his left shoulder, and near his back he was so vio∣lently drawn down, that he could not bear up without a Staff or stand upright or lie down; nor could he walk or ride without a Staff upon his Stirup, and that he felt pain as in a windy Cramp.

20. His ordinary Physician and I, concluded

because the Disease was so stubborn, though there was small hope of Recovery, to do som∣thing to encourage him.

21. We gave him order for the following Pills, by which he found Benefit, and an Oint∣ment for his back, and a moist Bath of the De∣coction of proper Herbs, he used these all the Dog-days; and the Issue in his left Arm was stopt, and another made in the right.

22. About the middle of August, his Phy∣sician wrote to me that by the use of those Me∣dicines he was nothing mended, but that his back-bone did bend somtimes to his left side. That he fell to the ground as if he were pressed down with a weight, when he had not the help of a Staff: that he doubted, whether this came from the retractions of the Tendons of the Mus∣cles on one side, or relaxing of the other, because they were forcibly drawn to the left side.

23. Moreover he said, that he wondred that since the Patient could not go without a Staff, and when a great weight was laid on his left shoulder, he could without a Staff walk straight.

24. To this I answered, that this came from the Muscles of the Back that fill the back-bone from the Neck to the Loins on both sides, the lowest part of which grew all along the back-bone, and move it; of which there are eight pair, four that bend to the Neck, and four to the Back, and raise them again with an opposite Motion.

25. That the cause of the Disease was in these, and chiefly at the first in them that move the Neck and Head, as I shewed him; when his Head only was drawn on the left side; but now those Muscles that move the Back are infected, and so the bone is drawn aside.

26. And this is not on both sides: for then the bone would be stiff, but only on the left side, by which the bone is drawn violently, and the part affected draws to it the sound part, as I shewed in Convulsions.

27. And it is a sign that the Muscles of the right side are not relaxed (for then the sound part should draw the weak) because the inclina∣tion to the left side is not as in a Palsy, from the weight of the part, by which it gently decli∣neth, but from a force that violently draws it, with pain as in a Cramp, and so that the oppo∣site Muscles are compelled to follow; in a Pal∣sy there is no attraction, but the part becomes loose and flaggy without pain, and is rather stupid and benumbed.

28. From whence it appears that in this Con∣vulsion the Muscles of the back all along the left side are affected.

29. And that this is true, this may demon∣strate; because as in a windy Cramp, if the Muscles contracted are drawn back by the force of the opposite Muscles, or by help of the hand, the contraction of the pain ceases; so in this, when on the left side the Muscles of the back there con∣tracted, are driven back by leaning hard upon a Staff, or by a weight upon the opposite shoul∣der, the back is right again; so that he may walk as long as it is so. Platerus, Lib. 1. Pag. 141.

XCVI. A Cramp and a wry Mouth.

1. A Country-man as often as he went to speak had his whole Cheek on the right side in a Cramp, trembling and twiching upward and downward, so that he was forced to hold it down with his hands to stay the violent Motion.

2. After he had been thus a year, and used Empericks in vain; he came to me; first I pur∣ged him, and applied dry Cupping-Glasses, without Scarification under his Ears to his shoul∣ders and back, then I gave him Mithridate, but that not making him sleep, I gave Syrup of Poppies thrice, increasing the quantity till he took two ounces and a half.

3. And when he slept not at all; I gave him my Narcotick that night, then he slept and sweat soundly, and that repeaped, made his Sleep na∣tural and the twitching of his Check ceased. Platerus, Lib. 1. Page. 130.

XCVII. A Tetanos in a Maiden.

1. A Maid about sixteen years of age, was taken with a Tetanos; by which she had her Neck drawn awry; within two days she was cured by the following Epythema.

2. Take Oyl of Cammomil, Oyl of Roses, of each four ounces: fresh Butter, five ounces: mix them for an Epythem; in which a cloth

three times double and apply it to the Neck warm; repeating it every three hours; by this she was cured. Martinus Rulandus, Cent. 4. Observ. 84.

XCVIII. A Convulsion with involuntary Laughter.

1. A certain noble Person, of nature melan∣cholick, was often taken with a durable involun∣tary Laughter, with a trembling and convulsive motion of the extream parts, from a collection of a sharp cholerick humour about the Viscera of the second concoction fermenting, and after a peculiar manner corrupted, from whence va∣pours proceeding and touching the Diaphragma and vellicating it, provoked and caused involun∣tary Laughter; and reaching the musculous and nervous parts did stimulate nature and ex∣cite Convulsions by their inimical and sharp quality.

2. The Body being first evacuated by Mela∣nagogues and Phlegmagogues; four or five spoonfuls were given of Hydromel laxative tar∣tarisated; at length for discussing the corrupt matter, which did infest the nervous System, one dram of the following Pouder was taken in black Cherrie water and Pauls-Betony; sweating thereafter in bed for some Mornings.

3. Take the Roots of Angelica, Swallowwort, of each one dram: Sarsaparilla, Cloves, Paeo∣ny, Divels-bit, of each two drams: Rosemary-Flowers, Sage, Tyme, of each half a dram: Bay-Berries, one dram: Species diambrae com∣positae, Diamoschi Amari, of each half a dram: Confectio Diaxyloaloes, half an ounce: the cure succeeded according to desire. Thonerus, Lib. 2. Observ. 4.

XCIX. A Convulsion of Divers parts caused from Worms.

1. A Maid of fourteen years of age finding a constriction in her Neck, imployed a Chyrur∣gion, who concluding that her distemper pro∣ceeded from a Catarrh; thought to give her ease by a gargarism; which attempt proved unsuccessful.

2. This Virgin growing worse and worse and being in great peril of suffocation, I was called upon about midnight to visit her; whom I found sitting up in her Bed, complaining of the contraction of her Jaws, and crying out that she was at the very point of Expiration for want of Breath.

3. Her Convulsions were very conspicuous in both Arms and both Leggs; somtimes in the right, somtimes in the left Arm even to her Breast; somtimes in the right, somtimes in the left Legg even to her Hipps.

4. First of all I conceived that the following Cordial water would be very proper for a per∣son under such deplorable circumstances: Take the water of Borage and black Cherries, of each two ounces: Lilly Convally, Balm, Be∣tony, of each one ounce: Cinnamon, half an ounce: red Coral prepared, one scruple: Bezoar, Origanum, fix grains, Lozenges of Sugar pearl∣ed, six drams, mix them: she had scarcely ta∣ken above one or two spoonfuls of this Dose but the constriction of her Neck was so much abat∣ed, that she could breath freely.

5. From thence I began to suspect that those symptoms had their rise from Worms; which being appeased by the sweetness of the Cordial water; did cease from troubling of her.

6. Afterwards I exhibited the following laxative potion: Take the leaves of Sena, three drams: Agarick trochiscated, Rhubarb, of each two scruples: Cinnamon, Ginger of each half a scruple: infuse in the water of Botony spirit of Vitriol, three drops: the Colature gently ex∣pressed, three ounces: dissolve choice Manna, one ounce.

7. About four hours after taking, she void∣ed two very long worms; with much vitious humors; the symptoms growing more remiss and less troublesom.

8. I also gave her the following things for carrying off the remainder of the humors Take the roots of Ditany, of Zedoary, Tormen∣til, of each one dram: the seeds of Worm-wood, two pugils: the leaves of Worm wood, Carduus Benedictus, Centaury the lesser, of each half an handful: the leaves of Sena, six drams: fresh Agarick trochiscated, of each four scruples: Cinnamon, two scruples: Ginger, Galengal, of each one scruple: make a Bag for wine, two pounds: water of Carduus Benedictus, one pound four ounces.

9. Of this she took before Dinner, and in the Evening one great worm was voided, and she was delivered from that malady. Thonerus, lib. 2. Observ. 1.

C. A Convulsion which afflicted day and night at intervals.

1. A Man about seventy years of age, was afflicted above half a year with Convulsions; the Paroxysm coming often both Day and Night.

2. Many malignant vapours arising from the Abdomen, did cause a vellication and Con∣vulsion of the nervous parts; with other bad symptoms; and there was a suppression of Urine.

3. Among other things, I ordered him to take the distilled Oyl of Amber rectifyed, six drops, with Parsly-water; two or three spoon∣fulls; this being somtimes given warm, did not only provoke urine, but also abated the other af∣flicting symptom. Thonerius, lib. 2. Observ. 2.

CI. An excellent remedy against the Cramp.

1. Several who had been affected with the Disease, did upon the bare skin and places grived wear the root of common flagg.

2. Also the skin of about twenty silver Eels new flaied, and chopped small, were boyled in two pound of May-butter, and four handfuls of Rue; after boyling scumm it well, anointing the grived part therewith, and this will work the same effect. Anonymus.

CII. A remedy against the contraction or shrinking of the Sinews.

1. A Man about six and twenty years old, having a sore and ulcerated Legg, fell into the hands of unexpert Chyrurgions, who by their corrosives shrunk up the Sinews; insomuch that he could neither go nor stand.

2. By the following Medicines he was per∣fectly cured: he was once purged with Aro∣matico, and then for two or three days he took quintessence solutive with syrup of Roses, and drank thereupon a little Broth.

3. Then the following Bath was used, as al∣so the Oyntment against contraction of Sinews, described by Leon ard Phioravant.

4. Take two or three young whelps that can not see, boyl them in water with Mallows, Hollihock, Mellilot, Walwort, Cammomil, of each one handful: boyl the Whelps till the flesh fall from the bones, which being done strain it, then hath therewith very warm. Anonymus.

CIII. Another remedy for the same Di∣sease.

A Child having her Neck drawn awry with a kind of Cramp; was Cured by drnking eve∣ry Morning and Evening a little Aqua Bal∣sami Phioravante; then was her Neck also anointed with some of the said water mixed with Magno Liquore Phiorvante, and in the space of ten days she was perfectly cured. Ano∣nymus.

2. Another of the same: Take the Oyl of Bricks one ounce: Oyl of Turpentine, half an ounce: of Juniper-berries, two drams: of Cloves, one dram: of Nutmegs and Mace, of each half a dram: mix them with a sufficient quantity, of the Oyl of Wax make it in the form of a Liniment: and therewith anoint the grived parts. Anonymus.

CIV. The Tortore or Convulsion of the Mouth.

1. A man about fifty years of age very ob∣noxious to Catarrhs, was taken with the tor∣tore of the Mouth or Dog-like Convulsion; I coming to visit him in the Evening, I prescribed for preparing the pituitous humors, these fol∣lowing things.

2. Take Waters of Betony, and the Flowers of the Tile-Tree, of each one ounce and half: Sy∣rup of Peony, one ounce: Spirit of Vitriol, six drops: make a Julep for one Dose to be taken at nine of the clock at night.

3. The second day in the Morning he took these purgative Pills: Take Extractum Catho∣licum, Cochiae, of each half a scruple: the Oyl of Sage, two drops: make fifteen Pills.

4. The third day a Vein was opened in his right Arm; the fourth day in the Morning Cupping-Glasses with Scarification were appli∣ed to the Shoulders, and in the Evening a Vesi∣catory

was applied to the Neck.

5. Troches of Mastick were prescribed: Take the Roots of Pyrethrum, one dram: choice Mastick, Cubebs, long Pepper, of each half a dram: Treacle, Mithitrade, of each one scru∣ple: Mucilage of Gum Tragacanth, and Su∣gar, of each a sufficient quantity: make Tro∣ches of Mastick.

6. The fifth day I ordered two Baggs to be made hot upon a hot Tile which was before sprinkled and wetted with white Wine; and one of them to be applied to the hinder part of the Head, and the other to the Jaw-bone.

7. Take the Leaves of Betony, Sage, Cow∣slips, Gout-Ivy, of each one handful: the Flow∣ers of Primrose, Elder, Staechas, Rosemary, of each one pugil: Juniper and Bay-Berries, of each two drams: cut them into pieces for two Baggs.

8. When on the sixth day the Symptoms were not remitted, I prescribed the following Pills to be exhibited in the Morning: Take extractum Pil. Aureae. one scruple: Resin of Jallap, five grains: Oyl of Amber, two drops: make eleven Pills guilded, let them be taken presently.

9. Seventhly Cupping-Glasses were again repeated, and for revulsion of the flegmatick Humors from the Brain and Parts affected, a Gargasins and sneezing Pouder were prescribed.

10. Take the Roots of Pyrethrum, two drams: the Leaves of Betony, Sage, Marjoram, Rose∣mary, and Ground-Pine, of each half an hand∣ful: Mustard seed, one dram and half: Juni∣per-Berries, one dram: boyl them in a sufficient quantity of fountain-water; strain, and in eight ounces of the straining dissolve Oxymel, of Squills, one ounce: make a Gargarism which is to be tak∣en warm.

11. Take the Flowers of Lilly-Convally, Mar∣joram, Rosemary, Betony, of each half a scru∣ple: Roots of Pyrethrum, six grains: Musk, Amber, of each one grain: make a sneesing-Pouder.

12. On the eighth day, I prescribed the fol∣lowing Electuary; and Tragaea for strengthening the Brain: Take the Conserves of the Flowers of Betony, one ounce: Peony, half an ounce: Marjoram, two drams: Citron-Peels, half an ounce: Indian Nutmegs preserved, two drams: Species Diambrae, one scruple: Diamoschi, half a scruple: Syrup of Peony, a sufficient quantity: make an Electuary; of which take at pleasure the quantity of a Nutmeg.

13. Take Species Diamoschi, two drams: Marchion, half a dram: Diambrae, one scru∣ple: Oyl of Cinnamon and Mace, of each two drops: Sugar of Roses tabled, three ounces: make a Tragaea.

14. On the ninth day the Tortore of the Mouth being somwhat abated, I ordered that the Cheek-bone which was affected should be twice a day anointed with the following water somwhat warm: Take Aqua Vitae with Casto∣reum and Mastick, of each one ounce and half: Sage, two ounces: the distilled Oyl of Rosemary, one scruple: mix them.

15. By the help or these Medicines the sick recovered his Health; neither did there appear any more a Tortore of the Mouth.

16. To prevent a Relapse, I commanded both Spring and Fall the following purging Bagg to be taken, and about the Vintage to prepare a medicated Wine of new Wine.

17. Take Roots of Peony, three drems: leaves of Betony, Marjoram, Carduus Benedictus, of each half an handful.: the Tops of Centaury the lesser, the Flowers of Lilly Convally, of each one pugil: the leaves of choice Sena, two ounces: choice Rhubarb, two drams: Aniseeds, one dram and half: being cut, put them into a Bagg of white Silk, to which pour two quarts of white Wine; six ounces of the strained Liquor may be taken in the Morning every other day, obser∣ving a good Diet.

18. Take Roots of Elecampane, four oun∣ces: Lignum Guajanum, three ounces: Sassa∣fras, two ounces: Orange-Peel, one ounce: the leaves of Betony, Sage, Bawm, of each four handfuls: Agrimony, Carduus Benedictus, the Tops of Centaury the lesser, Worm-wood, of each two handfuls: being cut, put them into eleven Measures of new Wine; of which g••ve the Patient a Cup full for a draught in ••he Morning and at Dinner. Bernardus Verzas∣chae, Obser. 42.

CV. Convulsions in a Child.

1. A Child was afflicted for the space of six years with grievous Convulsions, not only his Head but his Arm and Thigh were so much convulsed that he could not bow them, in the Paroxysm he remembred all those that were then present, but after the Fit was over he slept for a long time.

2. Some were of opinion it pas an Epilepsy, others a seveer Cholick, a third Convulsions a∣rising from Worms.

3. He used the Water of the Flowers of Lil∣ly Convally and the Tile-Tree distilled with Wine; Worm-wood also was boiled in Wine, and applied to the Navel, &c. yet all this did the Patient no good; for no sooner had he drunk thereof but he was taken with a Fit.

4. I advised him to put to his drink a little Harts-horn burnt, then to take a spoonful of the following Syrup.

5. Take the Syrup of the Flowers of Peony, one ounce: Syrup of Mint, five ounces: the Water of the Flowers of Peony, of Clove-Gilli-flowers, and of the Flowers of Cammomil, of each one ounce: mix them.

6. Afterwards apply to the Navel unwashed Wooll moistned with the Oyl of Dill, of Cam∣momil, and Verbascum; when he had used these things he grew well by little and little. Gabelchoverus, Cent. 4. Cur. 57.

CVI. Epileptick Convulsions.

1. A certain Gentleman fell into sudden Con∣vulsions of the whole Body with Epileptick Pa∣roxysms, and vomiting of Blood; this Person after he had taken one or two spoonfuls of the Syrup of Roses solutive with the Water of Pauls Betony, he vomited much viscid and cholerick Stuff; afterwards he was much better.

2. After this he conplained of great Heat as if hot Coals had been laid to his Skin, therefere I, ordered him to take this purging physical Wine.

3. Take the Leaves of Sena, six dram: Rai∣sons, two ounces: the Leaves and Flowers of Fumitory, Epithymum, Dodder, Ceterach, A∣grimony, Harts-Tougue, of each one handful: the Leaves of Worm wood, Hysop, Germander, of each five handfuls: the Roots of Bugloss, E∣lecampane, Avens, of each two drams: Gin∣ger, Cichory, black Hellebore, Agarick tro∣chiscated, of each one ounce: Liquorish scra∣ped and split, five ounces: Anise and Fennel seeds, Cinnamon, of each two scruples: the Flow∣ers of Borage, Roses and Violets, of each one pugil: Citron-Peels, five drams: choice Rhu∣barb, Mechoacan, of each two drams: Spike, one scruple: being all bruised, cut, and mixed together put them into a Bagg which is to be steeped in a Measure of Wine, of which the Pa∣tient drinking for some days.

4. Great Obstructions and many Excre∣ments were carried off and he recovered his former Health. Gabelchoverus, Cent. 4. Cur. 59.

CVII. Convulsions in several Persons.

1. One called Ambrose, while he yawned, suddenly the lower Jaw remained convulsed with great Grief and Pain, whom I cured with the Decoction of Cammomil, Vervain through Wax, and such like, as before in our Cure of Luxation.

2. A young Man that was troubled with Spasmus Caninus, so that his Mouth was drawn awry, I cured him by anointing the Reins of his Back with Balsamum Helenii and Hederae, and by little and little drawing the place which was awry to its form, with the gentle rubbing of my hand. Moreover I gave him in his drink the Oyl of Salt.

3. A certain Man of fifty years old was vex∣ed with a Cramp, that his Head and Neck were drawn down to his Breast, and could not lift nor stir it, unto whom I applied Arcanum Magnetis, and the Oyl of Salt, and so was cu∣red. Paracelsus.