Platerus golden practice of physick: fully and plainly discovering, I. All the kinds. II. The several causes of every disease. III. Their most proper cures, in respect to the kinds, and several causes, from whence they come. After a new, easie, and plain method; of knowing, foretelling, preventing, and curing, all diseases incident to the body of man. Full of proper observations and remedies: both of ancient and modern physitians. In three books, and five tomes, or parts. Being the fruits of one and thirty years travel: and fifty years practice of physick. By Felix Plater, chief physitian and professor in ordinary at Basil. Abdiah Cole, doctor of physick, and the liberal arts. Nich. Culpeper, gent. student in physick, and astrology.

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Title
Platerus golden practice of physick: fully and plainly discovering, I. All the kinds. II. The several causes of every disease. III. Their most proper cures, in respect to the kinds, and several causes, from whence they come. After a new, easie, and plain method; of knowing, foretelling, preventing, and curing, all diseases incident to the body of man. Full of proper observations and remedies: both of ancient and modern physitians. In three books, and five tomes, or parts. Being the fruits of one and thirty years travel: and fifty years practice of physick. By Felix Plater, chief physitian and professor in ordinary at Basil. Abdiah Cole, doctor of physick, and the liberal arts. Nich. Culpeper, gent. student in physick, and astrology.
Author
Platter, Felix, 1536-1614.
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London :: printed by Peter Cole, printer and book-seller, at the sign of the Printing-press in Cornhill, near the Royal Exchange,
1664.
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Medicine
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"Platerus golden practice of physick: fully and plainly discovering, I. All the kinds. II. The several causes of every disease. III. Their most proper cures, in respect to the kinds, and several causes, from whence they come. After a new, easie, and plain method; of knowing, foretelling, preventing, and curing, all diseases incident to the body of man. Full of proper observations and remedies: both of ancient and modern physitians. In three books, and five tomes, or parts. Being the fruits of one and thirty years travel: and fifty years practice of physick. By Felix Plater, chief physitian and professor in ordinary at Basil. Abdiah Cole, doctor of physick, and the liberal arts. Nich. Culpeper, gent. student in physick, and astrology." In the digital collection Early English Books Online 2. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/A90749.0001.001. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed May 31, 2024.

Pages

Chap. 3. Of an Alienation of the Mind.
The Kinds.

AN Alienation or error of the Minde is called a Paraphrosyne when they feigne judg and remember those things which are not, as if they were, or those things which are unlikly and besides reason, and that either together or a part, whether this be done only by Cogitation, or they express the same by words and deeds.

This for the most part coming from inbred Causes is a certain innate foolishness otherwise proceeding from external causes if from things taken tis called Temulency, if it arise from some vehement affect it shall be called a commotion of the Mind; but somtimes depending upon internal causes it is desipiency, which happening either without a Feaver accompanying it, is Melancholly, or with fury is Mania or Madness, or coupled with a Fea∣ver, tis called a Phrensie, all whose accidents we shall explain singly.

Foolishness although it be not ascribed to children only when they are yet destitute of Judgment, * 1.1 and old Folks who are said to be twice Chil∣dren (the which notwithstanding is rather a weakness of Minde in them, then a depravation) but also to every Age and all men upon that account, that all their hu∣mane actions seem to be foolish as Erasmus in his Moria Brandus in navi Stultorum have elegantly shewed it in all states of men; yet tis properly said of them who being borne truly Fools and Silly do presently even in their very infancy give signs of folly by gesticulations besides the custome of other Infants, and do not easily obey, are blockish, so that oftentimes they learne not to speak, much less to performe other Duties, in which any indu∣stry is required; which in some Countries is a common evil as they write of Egypt, and at Bremis a Village off Valesia as I my self have seen, and in the Valley of Car∣inthia, it is wont to befal many Infants, which besides an inbred foolishness, somtimes with an unshapen head, a great and swel'd. Tongue, being dumb oftentimes with a strumous Throat, do shew a deformed sight, and set∣ting in the waies and looking upon the Sun, and putting little sticks between the spaces of their Fingers, and variously wreathing their Bodies, with an open Mouth,

Page 27

they move Laughter and admiration to those that pass by.

But others on whom some mark of folly was first imprinted from their birth or afterwards, although they rightly per∣form all other actions of their life, and in some things are able to do singularly well beyond others, and are strong in wit and excel in some Art, as of Painting, En∣graving, Building, Musick, and others, yet betray their Folly by these things, that they willingly hear them∣selves praised that they tell and act ridiculous things, for which thing great men are delighted with their compa∣ny, whom also by reason of the divers Phantasms that present themselves to them, they call Phantastical.

But others yet more fools with divers Trifles, gestures and jests, as 'tis said, do thrust forth their Asses Ears, some of which have in them vices not acceptable to all and those oftentimes grievous ones, which according to the vari∣ety of their natures they bring forth somtimes in Anger, somtimes in Fury, somtimes in Sadness, somtimes in other things, all which it were superfluous to express.

Temulenlency or Drunkenness proceeding from Wine and certain other things, * 1.2 as shall be said in the Causes, and not yet going so far, as to cause sleepiness and stupidity of which we have already spoken, but going beyond the bounds of Mirth, in which Wine moderately doth cheer the heart of man, making them mad, according to the diversity of natures as afore was said also of fools, doth discover divers ef∣fects of Temulency and Drunkenness; whenas some Drun∣kards are rather like to fools in their profuse and immo∣derate laughter, laying open their folly by their laugh∣ing and cackling (whence is the Proverb, By much laugh∣ing you may know a Fool) also by prating, Singing, laugh∣ing, kissing, loving: but others do rather express the man∣ners of mad folks by Clamors, Anger, Blows, Biting. Others are sad like melancholly men, Weep, talk much of Religion and Death, which desipiency of theirs for the most part sleep or stupidity following, as was explained there, it doth so far alay it, til rouzed up they return to themselves again being oftentimes forgetful of the mad∣ness that went before, and some time after being trou∣bled with a pain and heaviness in the Head they do pen∣nance for their Folly.

A vehement or lasting commotion of the mind, * 1.3 arising from som affect of it as shal be said in the Causes, is likewise a species of a∣lination of mind so much depraving it, that that it either acts or thinks many things e∣stranged from reason; as is that foolish too much Joy with which being puft up they speak many and strange things childishly, and undertake them vaporing, and in laughing do cry for joy as the Comaedian saith. Also that short madness in which the Anger-strucken do swear and are carried headlong, fearing no dangers that they may be able to revenge themselves, and then that melan∣choly conceived out of sadness and fear, which oftentimes is wont to degenerate into a true and lasting one, as shal appear in the Causes; and hitherto also ought to be re∣fer'd the pertinacious Phansio of them who are opprest with great Love springing from a cor∣rupt judgment & imagination, * 1.4 which doth so change men, that as he saith, you cannot know them to be the same; which doth not only make men mad but women also young men and old folks, which sort of madness they call by the name of Heroical because 'tis wont to happen to Heroes or rich men but very inconsiderately, whenas the poorest cannot scape Cupids darts; this conturbation of the mind is a certatn affection compounded of all the other passions of the mind, whenas somtimes the effects of joy shine forth in it, somtimes of Sadness, somtimes of An∣ger, and nothing is more unconstant than Lovers, who that they may enjoy their love, become so thoughtfull, that they neglect things necessary for the body, as to take meat, to sleep, or other duties, who omitting weighty and serious businesses, or following them slow∣ly, spend their time rather in Neatness, Musick, and o∣ther things which may please their Mistress: and when they perswade themselves that they can obtain somwhat of their love, breaking forth into profuse joy, they often speak many foolish and obscaene things, and act them too, and laying aside all shame somtimes com∣mit filthy wickednesses, and fear not to expose them∣selves to grievous dangers; or if they despair of mutual love and good wil, they continually afflict themselves with mourning and lamenting, and by no means admit of comfort, they refuse good counsels, and express their grief by shedding of tears, often sighs, paleness (for e∣very Lover is pallid) and pain of the heart with which they chiefly complain they are troubled; whose pulse also is instable according as their mind is raised or de∣prest, and by beholding or remembring their Mistress 'tis raised & stird up (by which sign Erisistratus discover∣ed love) or by despair it becomes languid and calmed: with which accidents being opprest, at last they fall in∣to grievous Diseases and hasten their own death, or of∣tentimes in despair lay violent hands on themselves.

Melancholly denominated from black Choler, * 1.5 is a species of alienation of the mind in which the imagination and judgment are so perver∣ted, that without any cause they are very sad and fearful, and they can alleadg no certain cause of their sadness and fear, but that which is of no moment, or that false opinion which they have conceived from depraved ap∣prehhension.

As when they perswade themselves that they are dam∣ned, that God takes no care of them, that they are not predesti∣nated, although in the interim they be godly and religi∣ous, and they fear the last judgment, and eternal punish∣ment, which horrible melancholly (and oft times driving men to despair) is the most frequent species, in the cu∣ring of which I have oftentimes been much hindered, with which those that have been taken have oftentimes confessed to me with many tears, deep sighs, great an∣guish of heart and trembling of the whole body, that they have been stirred up to Blasphemy against God, to commit horrible things, to lay violent hands on them∣selves, to kil Husband, Wife, Children, Neighbours, their Prince, being moved with no jealousie, no envy to∣wards them whom they intimately love, but are com∣pel'd as it were against their will, and such thoughts do steal upon them whether they will or no, when in the mean time they cease not instantly to begg of God, that he would vouchsafe to free them from those wicked thoughts.

But others are very much troubled with the terrors of death and the fears thereof, whiles they falsly imagine with themselves, that they are out of favor with the Princes and Magistrates, and that they have committed some∣what, and are drawn to punishment; or who otherwise do highly fear death, which they fancy is even now hanging over their heads.

Others by other triffling falshoods conceived and imprinted in their mind, do deceive themselves, as he who thinking himself to be made an Earthen vessel gave way to every one he met, least they should break him with a touch: as some have beleeved themselves turned into brute beasts: and another who thinking he had a very large Nose, would not change this Opinion, til the Chirurgeon deceived him by a Counterfeit stroke, and shewing him

Page 28

a piece of flesh, that he had cut a part of it. And as that Woman who was wonderfully grieved that shee was for∣ced every day to put on her cloaths and put them off again: and another woman who as often as she though that when she was dead, her Husband would marry another Wife, she was transported to these accidents: some think they have swallowed Serpents and Frogs and that they carry them stil alive in their body, or by other tricks are deluded; and they dream of many and wonderful things of this nature, which somtimes relating with a great deal of affection and grief, I have heard somtimes with laughter, somtimes with great admiration and Pitty: in all which cases they shew marks of sadness and fear, whiles they complain, cry, with many and continual tears, and do wonderfully exagitate both body and mind.

Otherwise they are idle and silent, being asked answer not, being driven scarce go forward, they love solitudes and shun the company of men which species for that reason is called Misanthropia from the hatred of men; and if hating the light, they covet darkness repair to woods, and hide themselves in lurking places and caves as the holy writ testifieth of Nabuchadnaesor then they call it Lycanthropia from the custom of Wolves, others the wolfish melancholy.

With which perverse imaginations, pains and cruel tor∣tures of mind, those afflicted oftentimes not only many months, but years also, and at last overcome, unless they return to themselves and be helped by Counsel and Art, either they die wasting, or that death which before they feared they hasten to themselves by hanging or drown∣ing, or by some other violence, as we have known ma∣ny sad examples of this nature.

Which forementioned passions of Sadness and Fear as they do not produce equal effects in all, but do pervert the mind in some more in some less, so they do con∣tinually possess those which they have once inva∣ded. Yet they have by courses their exacerbations and remis∣sions, as we have, shewed also they did otherwise hap∣pen in continal Feavers for a cause contained in the Veins after the like manner; yet we have observed some to be thus troubled only at certain times, as some sea∣son of the year or change of the Moon, and especially Wo∣men while they are with Child, or have brought forth, or have their Courses.

There is also another species of it which they denominate from the place affected Hypochondriacal Melancholy, * 1.6 in which the forementioned accidents do often intermit and again return upon the same day, and those who are sick of it, as oft as they come to themselves, otherwise then the rest (who unless some other thing be joyned, do only complain of a pain of the Head, or somtimes of a Heaviness) do acknowledg that they are truly sick, and though they scarce or seld∣ome lie by it, and notwithstanding are able to undergo other duties, yet they complain perpetually of a pain of the Hypochondries especially in the left side (which they call a pain at the Heart) a Heat, Pulse, Murmur, Belchings, Vomiting, Spitting, pain of the Head, Vertigo, a ringing in the Ears, beating of the Arteries, and innumerable other af∣fects which they feel, and sometimes Phansie to them∣selves; and they trie Physitians, desire Cure, and trie di∣vers Remedies, and unless they be eased presently, they change Physitians and Medicines.

Mania or Madness is so great a depra∣vation of all the the Functions of the Mind, * 1.7 that they feign judge and remem∣ber most things falsly, acting not only as the mourn∣full an fearful Melancholick, but all things besides rea∣son, and somtimes without fury they commit more mo∣destly those things which they speak and do, but most commonly being turned to Madness, by their stern as∣pect and by their words and deeds they express the vio∣lence of their Minds, whenas they tell false, obscoene and horrid things, cry out, swear, and with a certain bru∣tish Appetite they go about diverse things like beasts, and some of them otherwise unusual even to men; and especially some of them desire Venery very much; as I have seen it befal a noble Matron otherwise most ho∣nest, who did invite both men and dogs to Copulation by most filthy words and gestures. Moreover they strive to offer violence both to themselves and others, where∣fore they pull out their hairs, tear their cloaths and som∣times hurt their own Body, by biting, and other waies, and unless they be diligently restrained with Bonds and Chains, the which they study to break with all endea∣vor, and be kept close in custody, where they try to break open the gates, and oftentimes by a certain indu∣stry digging their Pryson to make a passage for them∣selves, falling violently on the standers by, like Beasts they endeavor to scratch them, bite, strangle, kill.

But some amongst these maniacal or Melancholick som times shewing forth these accidents more vehement, * 1.8 somtimes more mild, and also acting and speaking things preternatural and monstrous, do manifestly declare that they are possessed by the Devil, which for that reason they call men possest and Dae∣moniacal; who besides the depraved actions of the Mind, as was said, are wont diversly as the Divel doth to impose marvellously upon Men, and to bewitch them, oftentimes they continue dumb for a long while; som∣times also they abstain longer from meat, then Nature otherwise could bear, yet without any hurt: and some∣times they so wreath their Body, bend and winde it, that as I have seen with my own Eyes, it could by no meanes be done Naturally without Luxations of the Joynts; or by guessing, prophesying, they divine and foretel things otherwise obstruse, or they speak with Tongues which they learnt not, neither understood when they were well, the Divel as it were speaking thorough their Mouth, the divers stories of which we could bring, we purposely omit.

There is also a certain sort of Mad∣ness, * 1.9 in which those bitten by a mad Creature are converted into the same mad∣ness with which the Creature was trou∣bled; as if this be done by a Dog they bark like Dogs, or if it happen from a Wolfe, they howl and set upon those they meet to bite them, shunning the light and those things which are clear and bright, when as in them doth appear the Image of the Dog, by which they were hurt, instead of the proper figure of a man, as some would have it, and especially fearing water, and trembling at the sight of it, whence this Species of Mad∣ness is peculiarly named Hydrophibia, long exercising the man with a distension of the Nerves, and a Redness of the whole Body especially of the face, and with sweat, and at length killing him unless releived.

Hither also is to be refer'd that horrid and wonderful but rare affect in which being struck with a certain mad fury of skipping, * 1.10 they continually desire to dances, which Disease they therefore cal Vitus dance from a Saint by invocati∣on of whom they beleeve they are freed from it; which though some counterfeit that they may extort the greater Almes, or are therefore suborned that they may imprint the false opinion of the common people the more in the minds of men; yet there are some found of both Sexes, which indeed being possest with this evil are

Page 29

carried with an inordinate desire to dancing, as that no time interposed that desire to dance with others without any rest night and day not only for some daies but weeks also, and in the interim are scarce yet tired, but are wonderfully recreated and refresht, and unless they do so they are very much hurt; whence when they take meat by compulsion, or being opprest with sleep they are forced a little while to cease from dancing, yet they do no waies obstain from the Agitation of their Body, and presently again laying hold on any body they sol∣licite them to dance; and that so long till at last their strength being wholly overthrown and feet bruised, comming to themselves again they feel an exceeding weakness, from which they can hardly be restored and made up again; an example of which I when I was a young man saw in a Woman here at Basil dancing thus a whol months space in a publique place for whom the Magistrate suborned certain persons, strong men, that should dance with her by turnes, seeing one was no waies able; and many writers do testefie, that it hath somtimes happen'd, and the common people also is wont to imprecate this as a known evil: and some Arabians have called it the dancing disposition of the Limbs, and would have it to be a Species of Convulsi∣on when yet here is no Convulsion of the Limbs, but the Mind Alienated is carried and forced into this mad∣ness and perverse appetite, as also in other Species of Melancholly and Madness they are possest with a desire of other things. which after another manner appear also too horrible; as even now we said those who are bitten by a mad Dog are rather tormented with the fear of water, as according to the nature of the venenate cause these different accidents proceeds, as we shall say in the Causes: if so be that this inordinate dancing also do not proceed from the Devil, and befall men by way of punishment by Gods permission, because they have offended by dancing.

A Phrensie is a Dotage, * 1.11 in which equally as in Madness, the Mind is wholly Alienated, yet more or less as the affect is great, the which also they make known after the same manner by words and deeds, now sporting it more pleasingly with Laughter, Jests and Trifles, now raving Angrily with Scoldings, Clamors, Blasphemies and desiring also to do hurt as the Maniacal: to whom this happens pecu∣liarly, that because they think, that Flies, Locks of Wooll. Straws are before their Eyes, and divers appa∣ritions do appear from their false Imagination, they endeavor to hunt them, pull them, gather them, drive them away.

But besides these like faults of the Mind which are common to them with the Maniacal there is a compa∣nion another grievous hot Disease, * 1.12 especially a Feaver to which if a Dotage be presently coupled at the first invasion, * 1.13 this affect is called a Phrensie; if that come after the Fea∣ver hath lasted a little while, and a pain of the Head also went before, about the state especially if the Feaver be continual; or if it come first at the beginning of the fit, or in the vigor, if the Feaver be intermitting then it is designed by the name of a Bastard Phrensie.

Therefore together with a Dotage which is somtimes very grievous somtimes more milde, as was said, the Symptoms also of a continual Feaver do concur, more vehement or gentler also as the feaverish heat offers it self greater or more pleasing, as are by Reason of the heat of the heart a swift pulse quick breathing and somtimes drawn with sighs by long intervals, faintings away, and by reason of the Natural parts enflamed, thirst, driness of the Tongue but especially by reason of the Brain over heated besides a Delirium, Watchings, Dreams, Suffusions, Vertigoes, which if the Brain be more vehemently inflamed, do present themselves more and more grievous, as shall be said in the Causes.

The Causes.

The Cause of every Alienation of Mind, is one Pre∣ternatural proceeding from an evil Spirit, the other Natural, a certain affect so affecting the Brain the seat of Reason, by it self if the Cause lie hid in that, or by consent if it be else where that the Functions of the Mind are rather depraved then impaired; but there is somtimes aquality working by an occult propriety, which doth it, the which seeing we are not able to ex∣plain, from the effect we will call one the drunken ver∣tue, the other the poysonous: but otherwise it will be some Disease to wit a certain distemper of the Brain, of which sort is that abstruse and unknown one, whose high efficacy is sufficiently known by this, that it vehe∣mently disturbs the Mind, but seeing that makes an evil of long continuance, and yet in the interim the sick do no waies lie by it, when nevertheless other manifest distempers of the Brain if they continue long, are very dangerous for hurting the Brain; certainly it is very difficult to be explained which we do certainly find that this comes to pass by reason of the Spirits of the Bain which are every where implanted in it, and connate and bound up to the substance of it, do call a to great Agitation and Confusion of the Spirits of the Brain and the other Species we would rather call a per∣turbation of them, or a mixture of them with a strange matter, then feigne such a distemper, which cannot cause that, as they write of the cold one: but a manifest distemper of the Brain, also inducing a dangerous Dis∣ease, may likewise cause it; of which sort is a vehe∣ment hot one, especially if it be joyned with a Tumor: and also a fault in conformation; also some speck or putrefaction found in the Brain, all which how they do Alienate the Mind, we shall express in order.

An Evil Spirit the Devil, because he is the enemy of mankind, * 1.14 doth not only continually infest the Mind, the most ezcellent and as it were the divine Function of Man, and so trouble them, that acting many things evilly against the divine Law he leads them into sin; but also exagi∣tating, bewitching with his Arts doth oftentimes induce a grievous Melancholy, or a Diabolical. Madness, or altogether entring the Body, makes them called the possessed and Daemeniacal the which to dispute or enquire how it is done, is not our intent, (although Matthiolus that he might refer all these kind of Madnesses to black Choler, affirms that the Cacodaemons do this by Media∣tion of that Humor, in which he saith they have their residence) this surely is certain, that there were such also in old time, as divers Histories Sacred and Pro∣phane do testifie, as also we can no waies deny but that they may be found in our Age too.

The Drunken Disposition so called be∣cause it assailes the Head, * 1.15 arising from the propriety of certain things, pro∣duceth an Alienation of the Mind, which they call Drunkenness or Te∣mulency, this proceeds from those things, which accor∣ding to the diversity of Natures, and as they are used

Page 30

can induce Sleep and Stupidity and for that reason also are called Narcoticks.

Some of which taken inward do it, as Wine more commonly then the rest, because it is ordinary Drink, which causeth this species of Temulency called Drunken∣ness if it be drank too immoderate or strongly, yet not so far as to cause a perfect stupidity; and that for this cause, because by its propriety it lightly obscuring the Senses (whence is the beginning of Stupidity) amongst which the memory for the most part is wont first to fail, by producing a certain oblivion of griefes and labours, it brings a foolish joy and that effusion which happens with reason from Wine yet moderately taken; its heat moreover helping, by which at once heating and infla∣ming the spirits it doth to much exagitate the actions; which happens more powerfully from distilled Wine, because its concenterd Vertue, and heat is greater, upon which account Country Fellows are wont to drink it in the morning, that afterwards they may be more chearful to perform their services. This also the Juyces of some other Plants will do, if those Plants be eaten, or their Juyce prest forth be given or extracted by Decoction; as are Hops from which Beer takes its Vertue of foxing, and flies if they drink of it do dye taken with stupidity, Hemp also, whose Pou∣der if it be given with Wine, doth fox the sooner; the seed of Darnel and Gith perhaps the false Nigella in Bread, which faults of Corn if they abound, the Bread made of these makes Men sleepy, and by continual use hurts ma∣ny every where, the which notwithstanding they do not observe: and such is that Plant, or rather the seed of it, a sort of Millet called Avate of which the Indians make an intoxicating Drink called Caou-in; but also other Narcoticks may do it, especially if they be used mixt with things very hot, both Vertues then acting, as was said even now of Wine as if Henbane seed be boiled in Beer as some are wont to do, it foxeth sooner and vehe∣mently; if the Bark of Mandrake be boiled in Wine till it look red; if Opium be drank with the strongest wine; as Bellonius relates Turks do drink without any harm O∣pium half a dram with Wine when they go forth to bat∣tel, that being more bold and furious they may less fear danger; as also Dioscorides writes that Hemlock taken with Wine doth work more effectual and kill the sooner; yet all which as we have said formerly of wine do more or less make mad, according to the variety of Tempera∣ments: as also I have observed, that a weakness of the Brain may be the cause that they are sooner affected, in him who by reason of a fall had a peice of his Skull ta∣ken out, and therefore was quickly drunk.

Some things applied to the Head can do the same as Rondeletius witnesseth bringing an Example of him, who whenas he had applied Henbane leaves to his Head to procure sleep, became mad.

By Inspiration also drawing in the fume of Henbane of Peru, which they cal Petum or Tobacco, sucking it through their mouthand Nose, or as the English call it drinking it who for the voiding of Flegm, and also to induce Mirth do highly esteem the accustomary use of it, that men are made like to Drunkards, and loose all Appetite of eating and drinking and so can suffer Hunger a long time, those that have writ of it, and tried the same, do witness. The which also happens as Matthiolus shews if the root of the greater Nightshade, which they cal deadly be infused in wine, & the Infusion given that hunger & thirst do cease; til by taking of Vinegar that fault is corrected but Sleep coming doth cure them both, as also in others.

A poysonous Quality entring the Body from without, * 1.16 or proceeding from things taken in (for concerning that which is raised intrinsecally in the humors, shall be spoke off in a Melancholly humor) from some poysons which hurt rather by Alienating the Minde then any other way, as the effects and hurts of Poysons are Various, may also disturbe the Mind; of which sort Dioscorides proposeth many things which can do it ra∣ther by a poysenous then narcotick quality and we pur∣posely omit them when as they are rare with us: a∣mongst which also Pliny thought, that menstruous blood devoured, was able to make Mad both Men and Dogs.

As also we oftentimes find by experience that from biting of Creatures turned Mad, the Poyson entring mans Body by the Spittle, the like Madness doth befal them, especially from Dogs, which do easier become Mad then other Creatures, to wit, about the heat of the Dog daies, so called for this Reason; or also about the grea∣test cold as Dioscorides will have it; and they are known by this, that they loath meat, send forth a foam, hang down their tail, and fly upon those also which before they loved, and bite them: whose biting though at first it bring no greater discommodity then the wound and pain, yet if it be neglected, somtimes the first fortieth day, somtimes sooner, somtimes after six months or a year, it induceth that Hydrophobite and Madness won∣derfully changing the Mind of a man, as was said for∣merly, and converting it into doggish manners. In which there is so great vertue of Poyson, that some amongst whom Avicen is one, have dared to testifie for truth, that some have pist forth Whelps or some flesh like to them: and Dioscorides proves by the Testimony of one that this evil hath layen hid for seven years, and then first of all broke forth; and Matthiolus writes that the touching of certain woods especially the Dog-tree and the Bloody-rod, will occasion that this Madness do sooner appear: and Dioscorides also hath delivered, that by the Conversation only with one infected, a certain man contracted the like affect; and Galen teacheth that the spittle of Mad Dogs, if it touch the naked parts of the Body, is able to make Men Mad, all one as if they were bitten.

Which things as they do more commonly happen from Mad Dogs because they live with men in great plenty and more familiarly then other Creatures, so al∣so they witness that they happen from Wolfes run Mad and I have twice observed a dreadful and deadly Mad∣ness proceeding thence, and doubtless as Aristotle hath write the same from the bitings of other Mad Creatures as of the Camel and Horse, and Avicen of the Mule so also the same may happen from the bitings of a Fox, a Weasil, a Poulecat, a Ferret whose bitings at other times have somwhat of Poyson in them, Nay of an Ape also, and even of a Man himself now sick of this Mad∣ness whose spittle hath put on the Nature of Poy∣son.

As it is very likely also that Madness may be raised from the Blood of some Poysenous Beasts as other acci∣dents from other Poysons, of which seeing we are destitute in our Countries, and therefore no danger hangs over us from them, tis needless here to speak more.

The too great Agitation or Confusion of the Spirit of the Brain, * 1.17 inducing not only a light or short affection which presently ceaseth, but somtimes an imprinted and permanent affect, is the cause of a commotion of the Mind in those especially which are disposed to it, or who by reason of their cowardize, or weakness of reason, cannot resist affects; but that is done by that Commotion which is done sud∣dainly with a certain violence as by Joy, Anger, Fear,

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or by that which is wont to happen vehement and of long continuance as in Grief, or that which happens long conti∣nued and depraved in counterfeit Folly.

Great joy for some thing obtained, especially if it hap∣pen unexpectedly, and that to the weaker sort as old Men and Women it begets that foolish species of pertur∣bation of the Mind with foolish joy as was said, the spirits being so poured forth with the Blood, that the Face is not only over spread with red, but tears drop forth of their Eyes and all their Members being heated are un∣quiet.

Anger for some offence raiseth that furious species of commotion of the Mind the spirits and blood being vehe∣mently inflamed, and cast forth with desire of revenge, yet by and by returning again by reason of grief of mind, whence they look so red at first, by and by wax pale and yellow; the which happens more easily to hot∣ter and cholerick Natures, and to those who are first heated with Wine, and made sottish, hence then many Causes concurring together, they are as it were mad.

A Fright or grievous Fear especially happning of a sud∣dain doth not only astonish the Mind, but if it be so im∣printed in the mind, and move, change and confound the whole Body and Spirits, especially in those dispo∣sed, that it can either never, or very difficultly be got out of it, it oftentimes induceth a true Melancholy and that most grievous and worst almost then that which hap∣pens from an internal Cause, as shall be said by and by, the impression being so made upon the Spirits and Hu∣mors, and the Brain it self, that it can hardly be drawn forth, unless the whole Mass of Blood be exhausted, as shall be explained; and this is that species of Melancholy in which as it hath been shewed, they are vext with hor∣rid and wicked Temptations, the which species I have often met withal, possessing both Women and Men, not sparing even the younger sort.

But this proceeds either from some horrid Vision ap∣pearing either by Dreams or in deed as of some Ghost, or the Carkass of a Man hanged, as in that Maid who behol∣ding one hanging upon a Cross without the citty, fell into such a Mnlancholy which ending in Convulsions cau∣sed her Death; and a Woman who passing by a Gibbet late, and fearing least being shut out of the, City she should be forced to lie there all Night fell into a long continued Melancholy; another also who by chance be holding the Carkass of a Theefe, who hanged himself in the Prison, whiles he was put into a Barrel to be cast into the River, being astonish't in Mind, miserably re∣maining many years Melancholick could scarce any more come to her self: the which also oftentimes pro∣ceed from the Imagination only and fear of some Dan∣ger of Theeves when they converse alone in Woods, or at night in the dark, in which all things become more dreadful; or they proceed from fear of eternal Judge∣ment for some grievous sin committed, as that Concu∣bine of the Priests pretended in her grievous Melancholy, because she had brought forth so many Children from an unlawful Bed; which imagination and perswasion conceived from that, even those that do now suffer this affect do retain, and do express by words and very deed such like things which gave them the occasion, as was said in the accidents of Melancholy.

Sadness or vehement Grief lasting long doth also beget a Melancholick Perturbation of the Mind, which also may degenerate into the true one if it take deeper roote and disturb the Spirits, and change the Temperament of the Body; or it induceth a certain Phansie sometimes foo∣lish, sometimes maddish, and sometimes desperation as we have described in explaining the kinds.

But this Sadness of Mind proceeds from grief or mour∣ning most commonly for some things lost of Money, Honour, or any other thing, as the Death of Children, Parents, Friends, with which the Mind oftentimes is wonderfully tormented and afflicted for a long time; or from Shame and Bashfulness, with which generous minds especially are so troubled for some error commi∣ted, that it is plain some have thereby been driven to despair; as they write it happened to Homer, because he could not resolve the Fisher-men their Riddle. Envy also doth so afflict a man, and as they are wont to say gnaw the Heart, that these also become wholly Melan∣cholick and by their Face and Gestures express envy all manner of waies, as Ovid sets it forth. Also divers af∣fects of the Mind proceeds chiefly from the too great Ap∣petite or Concupiscence of some thing honest or dishonest which they perswade themselves will be profitable or honest; as seeing by the immoderate study or Science men oftentimes being too intent, do procure to them∣selves a certain Phansie, and those whom ambition and vain glory torments, and who are taken with the love of themselves (Philauty) boastingly, they talk and do many foolish and ridiculous things, which the Comaedi∣ans have elegantly shown in the vain glorious Souldier under the persons of Thraso and Pyr, Gopolynices in their Comaedies, or when the desire of revenge not ceasing af∣ter anger, being carried into a permanent Hatred, and Enmity, which can scarce any more be blotted out, con∣tinually thirsting Revenge, and intent on that, they do nothing rightly, but most things unhappily, being trou∣bled in Mind; or carried on the Coveteousness, the love of Riches; they are so madded, that they run headlong in∣to many Vices, Sins and enormous Deeds; whether. also that Dotage of the Alchymists ought to be referred∣who seeking the Phylosophers stone with so great heat, all though they see they loose their Labour and Cost, and can do nothing, nor know nothing done by others yet they bate not of their unwearied Labour, and led on by continual Hope, no waies ceasing from their Labour, they wast their whole substance; last of all and chiefly that vehement Heat and Concupiscence proceeding from love in both sexes, when they cannot alwaies enjoy it, or not all, 'tis a Cause of that Grief (for every Lover mourns) with which being overcome at last, they are vext and tormented with so many different Passions of the mind, that despairing they think attempt and perform, things ridiculous or weighty and dangerous, as was said in the accidents to which love, sometimes and elegant beauty, sometimes lovely conditions, every one according to his Phansie, for the most part with a blind judgment, sometimes a certain Sympathy and confirmity of man∣ners, gave the beginning, occasion, and fomented it.

Counterfeit Folly and long continued, constantly exagitate∣ing the spirits depravedly doth cause that by this custom changing Nature, some Fools who for their gullet Belly and profit sake, exercise their Folly before great Men, who delight in the Conversation of Fools, seeing they have fitted and accustomed themselves to this from their Youth, they acquire that Habit in it, which after∣wards seeing it can no waies be blotted out, they con∣tinue Fools indeed.

A perturbation of the Spirits of the Brain not that which raised from the Affections of the Mind doth too much exagitate and confound them, * 1.18 or aflects them with an occult qua∣lity of which we have spoken alrea∣dy, but that which being raised intrin∣secally from some matter mixt with the Spirits doth cloud obscure, darken the animal Spirits which ought to be bright clear lucid and most pure; may induce the said

Page 32

Melancholly and Madness also, if it Act more vehe∣mently:

Which matter they cal Melancholick because they think it is black, and they contend that it doth alter the Mind not only by troubling the Spirits, but also by cooling the Brain; seeing they hold this humor is cold and dry, but seeing we have shewed in Sleepiness and Supidtiy that from the coldness of the Brain, whether joyned with moisture or driness its Functions would rather be impaired or abolisht, then intended; this Melancholick matter which we also call Turbulent impure and filthy doth not by cooling, but because tis mixt with the spirits disturbs them, and the Brain in whose substance the Spirits are every where connate, we have proved in Anatomy; and by a certain Malignity which it hath also attained it doth at last imprint that hurt from which follow such enormous, accidents, the which notwithstanding cannot therefore suddainly bring Death, because it is an evil of long continuance. The which matter is either a Melancholick vapor or humor.

A Melancholick filthy Vapor troub∣ling the Spirits and affecting the Head breeds that Species of Melancholy which they call Hypochondriacal, * 1.19 because they chiefly complain of that place affected; for the cause of this evil lurkes in the parts of the Belly under the Ribes or Hypochondries, which the Arabians call Mirach and from thence denominate this Species mirachal melancholly, and from that part a vapor raised upwards to the Head at a certain time, then when it assails it, it makes this melancholly exert it self. Most men write that the fewel of this is the Spleen because it is the natural seat of melancholly and be∣cause they are most troubled in the left side, but others affirm that this matter is contained in the stomach also which doth most possess the left hypochondria, and in its neighboring part: others also place in the Liver and Mesentary and the Veins of that called mesaraicks: which we also affirm is heaped and lies hid in the mesarick Veins not only those that through the mesentery and call, but also the other natural bowels, especially in those places where these branches of the Vena porta being more and greater do tend towards the Spleen and Stomach in the left side, although this mat∣ter may be heaped up also in other places, upon which account they feel their pain most commonly in the left side, yet somtimes in the right part of the hypochon∣dries and back, where the Spleen and chief bowels lie hid.

But most do give out that the matter lying there, from which this evaporation rising doth affect the mind, to be melancholly blood, which we also can no waies deny, but we deny it to be cold, seeing that burning which the Patient feels in that place where the humor lurks doth sufficiently declare the acrimony and heat of the hu∣mor: for as it was said in Feavers that the blood in the Vena cava did cause continual Feavers, but that in the branches of the Vena porta, being more cholerick and excrementitious which is continually heaped up from the meat and drink lately changed into chyle, when it putrifies it doth by its evaporation cause intermitting Feavers; so also it happens in this case, as we shall by and by shew, that as from melancholly blood contained in the branches of the Vena cava the true melancholly is cau∣sed, so from that which is accumulated in the branches of the Vena porta and there fils up the Veins in certain places, yet doth not putrefie, but is adust, faeculent, and hath also some malignity; if the vapors of that raised up, keeping the condition of the humor from whence they proceed, do assail the brain they wil cause a melan∣cholly returning by course which lasts so long, til they be∣ing discust again do grant some ease to the Patient, so long til new vapors arise, which for the most part is e∣very day.

And hence it comes to pass that this melancholly other∣wise than the true, hath its intermissions, then especially when some excretion of wind chiefly, with which this e∣vaporation doth fil the Stomach and Guts, is made by belching; which carries with it a heat by reason of the humor from whence it proceeds, and an acidity by rea∣son of the Stomach, in which that a certain acidity is alwaies contained we shal declare in its proper place, or when these vapors which tend upwards are partly emptied by vomiting or partly reveld by Farts and Stools, or when by cold meat yet moderately taken, those heats being mitigated and vapors represt they do a lit∣tle ease the evil, as by taking that which is hot and plentiful, that affect by reason of the boyling of those parts and plenty of wind, is exasperated: because the stomach is comprest with these and pained puft up, and together with the Guts makes a murmuring, rumbling and waving the aforesaid windes are so frequent in this affect, that it is called also the windy melancholly and di∣vers Excrements thrust thither from the mesaraick Veins are the Causes, by reason of which also they then feel hears in those places where this matter princi∣pally lurks, as hath been said: but also these filthy va∣pors ascending upwards, because the heart also by the way is oftentimes grieviously affected they complain of a palpitation of the heart, and beating of the Arteries and the Midriff being somwhat hindred of some suffocation: so that scarce any other evil doth so long torment a man as this affect doth, if he lie not down by the Disease, with so many accidents in the hurts of the natural, vital, animal parts infinite of which they continually com∣plain.

But the cause and original of this melancholly blood col∣lected in the mesaraick veins proceeds from an ill course of Diet long continued, begetting the melancholly juyce, or thick cholerick, whence by degrees a great filth of it is heaped up at length: as in intermitting Fe∣vers for the like reason we said that cholerick blood was produced; which may come to pass from all meats of evil juyce, hard concoction, being corrupted, and from those that are hot, rather than from the cold and dry (unless in as much as these being hardly disgested do corrupt also) in which we offend chiefly for gluttony and pleasures sake, whenas they are sweet, salt Fat, Acrid: although most men believe the flesh which is taken from wild Beasts and from solitary or melancholly creatures, as that of Hares, Venison, to be more apt to produce a me∣lancholly juyce, as amongst Plants, Colewares, and Lentils; and it gives a great and principal occasion of this evil, if the excretions went to be made at some certaintimes, by which nature was wont to evacuate these things at first collected in the stomach or guts, as loosnesses of the belly or Vomiting be no more; or if this filth being col∣lected in the mesaraick Veins, the Hemorrhoids be sup∣prest, especially if they did once flow, which somtimes is the chief original of this evil.

The humor producing true melancholly and oftentimes madness is called a me∣lanchollick blood such as they think to be either black choler it self, * 1.20 or that which is faeculent, but we have already said formerly that this matter doth no waies want some malignity and we may by right also call it poysonous seeing it can∣not

Page 33

otherwise be rightly explained, as Galen shews l. 6. de loc. affect. that a poysonous matter is generated from seed and blood corrupted; the which its enormous ac∣cidents do sufficiently declare, which show themselves in them as if they were struck with poyson especially madness; when notwithstanding there is no other hurt, no manifest disease nor danger of death, and see∣ing they suffer these things for many years, oftentimes without any other damage; which certainly can no waies be caused from a cold humor, such as they think the dregs of blood to be, nor from black choler which if it be confounded with the blood is wont to bring the black jaundies and other grievous diseases of the Skin; therefore we should rather recur to a malignant poysonous and occult quality such as we shal often declare is found in many the like pertinacious and horrid diseases, which they thought did spring from black Cho∣ler, as hath been said, and in which by reason of their malignity Mathiolus asserted the Cacodaemons had their residence; then teach and allow of those things for true, which are thus believed out of a certain custom and thought it to be seen in that blood let which is black, when notwithstanding congealed blood of its own nature even in the sound is wont to look blackish, and bein kept long, to appear black like pitch and we wil embrace truth rather than Opinions, or we will o∣penly confess that we are not able rightly to explain the true cause.

But the blood now mentioned is contained in the branches of the Vena Cava as that which caused a hypo∣chondriacal melancholly is in the branches of the Vena por∣ta and therefore it raiseth a melancholly or madness perse∣vering not invading by courses as the hypochondriacal doth, unless as it hath its exacerbations and remissions, as we said also it came to pass in continual Fevers for the same cause; as hath been explained that by reason of the difference of these Veins, in which the matter of Fevers is contained, for the same reason they become continual or intermitting.

But it is certain that the matter is contained somtimes in the veins of the head only, & other times in the veins of the whol body, especially in the greater, and upon that account doth cause more grievoius or more mild accidents; for as it was declared in continual Fe∣vers if the matter putrifie about the heart there is caused a most burning Fever called a Causus, so it fals out here, to wit, that if such matter be contained in the ventricles of the brain, where otherwise the blood of the Veins and Ar∣teries confounded together is very hot, a madness or grievous melancholly is raised or if about a more noble part as the Womb the Blood which is wont to abound there and the seed also being retained be corrupted and chan∣ged into that poysonous matter as was alleadged formerly by the testimony of Galen; it causeth that madness of the Womb in which they so much desire enormous and bru∣tish copulation, as hath been demonstrated by the ex∣ample of a Woman who by reason of a long continued sickness of her Husband, by reteining her seed fell into this disease, and coveted copulation with dogs: and by how much the further scituation it hath from a principal part in the lower parts, by so much the more mild melan∣cholly ariseth.

All which things must be judged how they are, by the nature of the accidents, and from this that no other external causes went before, as was said of a fright from which a grievous melancholly is commonly caused; ra∣ther then by the constitution, which they set forth to be melancholly from the hairs of the body, the color of the Skin, and the habit also from the excrements, seeing these disea∣ses may happen not only to people swarthy, lean, and sad by nature, but to all Na••••tres, all Ages, as I have often ob∣served.

But that the cause of it may depend upon a melanchol∣ly constitution, which they have contracted to them∣selves by nature or by an ill course of living, as was shew∣ed in the hypochondriacal, we do no waies deny, seeing melancholly blood being turbid and impure doth the easier acquire malignity; as also we have somtimes found that hypochondriacal melancholly hath passed into the true one, the blood in the Veins being at last infected by the long continued evaporation of heat: and also that me∣lancholly which proceeds from the affection of the mind if it fall upon a fit constitution, called the melanchollick it wil have a double cause concurring to excite a true melan∣cholly; lastly from the suppression of such excrements which easily pass into this poysonous matter, as from the re∣tention especially of the menstruous bleod or seed, as som∣times a Suffocation of the Womb doth proceed, so at o∣ther times a madness of the Womb as hath been explain∣ed.

A hot distemper affecting the brain and its membranes, * 1.21 for the most part cause that first a pain of the Head and if it be more intense, a dotage, by too much exagitating the functions of the mind; but it grows hot somtimes from a hot vapor which is raised up either from hot meat and drink but unless then there be joyned a Narcotick or madding faculty as was said of Wine, heat alone wil scarce bring a deliration but only a pain of the head: but this is soon∣er done from hot humors, blood too much evaporating, especially if it contract some malignity also which is wont presently to make the brain mad, as hath been shewed in the causes of melancholly, which easily happens in blood altered or putrified whether in the Veins or out of them that by corruption it acquires some malignity, from that therefore the like vapor being carried up to the brain it breeds a bastard phrensie so called, in many dis∣eases generated from such like humors, whose symptom it is.

So somtimes a dotage is wont to follow, a hot expira∣tion raised foom blood in diseases generated from inflam∣ed blood, as in diary Feavers, a sinochis and internal in∣flammations, which is known to proced from thence by the disease accompanying it: also from humors putrify∣ing and so getting a preternatural heat a dotage doth somtimes invade all putrid Feavers at what time chiefly the hot expiration doth very much assail the head, as in intermitting Feavers oftentimes at the beginning, otherwise about the State, and then also chiefly in con∣tinual Feavers; the heat of the brain helping, which by reason of the Fever together with all the parts of the body is heated also; for the same reason also Children do oftentimes Rave, by reason of Worms when they putrifie a Fever for the most part coming upon it. Chol∣ler poured forth into the Stomach sending also a hot evapo∣ration to the brain, because it is acrid and subtile, doth rather cause a pain and a Vertigo than a dotage as shall be said in its place.

Also Blood made too hot and especi∣ally too thin contained in the ventricles and Vessels of the Brain, * 1.22 inflaming the brain not only by a vapor but also by its proper substance induceth a bastard Phrensie; as it somtimes comes to pass, when by a blow, or Fall, or in Fea∣vers it flows thither.

Page 35

But if that it be carried out of the Vessels and poured upon the brain and its membranes, * 1.23 it breeds an Inflammation or Erysipelas ac∣cording as the Blood is, then it causeth a true Phrensie which also is called a Syriasis especially if it befal Children whose ex∣ternal and violent Cause may be that which shatters or hurts the Head, or the internal, a Fulness of Blood and in∣flammation of it whence a synochus Feaver arising, pour∣ing forth a portion of its hotter blood into this princi∣pal patr, which before did very much abound with blood it makes this grievous Disease, whose Companion is a continual Feaver as hath been declared in Feavers: differ∣ing therefore from a bastard Phrensie, because the feaver in that goes before the Dotage but in a Phrensie they both in∣vade together; by which signe also tis chiefly known.

An evil Conformation of the Brain, as if it be too big, or little, or otherwise be not rightly formed for the most part creates the said Foolishness bred in some from their Birth, whenas this proceeds from implanted Causes, as from the seed of the Parents, who either were Fools themselves, or their seed had contracted some fault; and tis easily known by this that they were Fools from their Birth, because the Head answers the unshapen Brain in Greatness or Smaleness or Deformity; * 1.24 which fault if it reach to the Nerves also and other parts tis no wonder that these are somtimes born as we have described, either deaf or dum or crooked, or or otherwise faulty; the which certainly is the chief Cause of Original Folly, as somtimes this appa∣rent Deformity of theirs doth shew, somtimes tis not discovered but by opening after Death.

So also we do not deny that this may happen from an evil Distem∣per of the Brain, * 1.25 the which notwith∣standing seeing it cannot be righ∣tly explained, nor corrected, is no further to be enqui∣red into.

It hath been somtimes found out, that a certain black speck in the brain or mem∣branes discovered by Dissection, * 1.26 hath been the Cause of Madness, as some∣times also Putrefaction bred in some part of the Membranes of the brain, * 1.27 from which tis likely that filthy Va∣pors being continually raised did trouble the Spirits, which some also have delivered may happen from Worms generated in the Brain; * 1.28 which hidden faults seeing they are first manifested after Death by opening the Skull, we can hardly conjecture what they are while the Man lives, unless in General, from this, because o∣ther signs are wanting here which should demonstrate other Causes.

The Cure.

In the Cure the Causes must be distinguisht, and the Remedies fitted to them; which we said were either a malignant Spirit, or a drunken or poysonous Quality; an a∣gitation or perturbation of the Spirits, a bot Distemper and some faults of the Brain.

The preternatural Cause proceeding from the Divel as it doth no waies be∣long to the Physitian, * 1.29 so neither the Cure; for the Divel is forcibly ex∣pel'd by the Prayers of Divines and godly people in the Name of Jesus; as Christ cast forth Divels and gave his Disciples that Power; but also the Divel somtimes feining himself of his own accord to be put to flight by certain Words and Ceremonies of men, doth delude Mortals.

If Drunkenness arise from Wine and other inebriating things as hath been said, * 1.30 after some hours the Vapors being discust, especially by the in∣tervention of sleep, they come to themselves of their own accord; and if Vomiting follow it, it is good, up∣on which account Avicen thought it good to be drunk once a month.

But if they continue this Course of life, the Nerves being weakned by reason of their frequent stupidity, which is discovered by this even then to come to pass, if presently after that they have not yet drank immodera∣tely, they begin to stutter and stumble; they become Tremulous, Paralytical, Gouty, Hydropical, as shall be said in those places.

Therefore that they may have a Care of themselves they are to be admonisht from Drunkenuess and to be frighted by declaring the Danger of it; and if they can∣not refrain some have delivered that this may be effect∣ed, that they shall wholly loath Wine, by strangling an Eele in Wine, or a Frog or the barbel Fish, or the Rot∣chet Fish being putrefied in it, or the Sea Grape, and that Wine afterwards being drunk off.

But if sometimes a Necessity of drinking and con∣tending in Cups do urge, as this is brought into use as a Civil thing at Banquets to the great hurt of mankind, for prevention it hath been observed that these things following being taken before do prevent Drunkenness or at least wise make it more gentle.

Five or fix bitter Almonds eaten before meat.

Wormwood also, whose Wine notwithstanding the Swil∣lers do use rather the day after a Fox, that they may cor∣rect their Stomach offended with Choller, (whenas to contemperate that they fil themselves with drink again) from whence these Verses.

If thou be hurt by drinking over night Rise early to't this Medicine is full right.

Rue because it makes the Cup safe, as the Verse sounds, is commended for this use, which I think is rather said so, because it preserves from Poyson.

Coleworts taken at meat hinder Drunkenness, and so doth its Seed.

If one drink Milk fasting, he shall be safe that day.

Pliny teacheth that the Lungs of Creatures roasted eaten and do keep of Drunkenness other express by Name the Lungs of Sheep.

One writes that the pouder of Swallows burnt being ta∣ken, will not suffer one to be drunk to Aeternity.

A pouder hindring Drunkenness may be made thus, of which give one spoonful with Austere Wine. Take of the seeds of Coleworts one dram, Coriander half a dram, Camphire two grains: make a pouder.

A more Compounded one may be made thus, of which give one spoonful or two drams with Wine of Pomegra∣nates, or with some other acid, stiptick, or with cold Water, or with Sugar let it be reduced into the form of Lozenges, Take of the seeds of coleworts one dram, of Plantane, Purslane, Bar-berries each half a dram, Coriander prepared two drams, flowers of red roses, water-lillies, red Sanders each half a dram, Mastich, Amber each one scruple, burnt Ivory one scruple, salt half a scruple, Camphire six grains: make a pouder.

This may be used in the form of an Electuary, and gi∣ven before drinking, Take of conserve of Roses, the Rob, of Currance and Barberries each half an ounce, bitter Al∣monds branched and bruised twelve seeds, of Coleworts one

Page 34

dram, red Roses one dram, Syrup of Slots as much as is suf∣ficient make an Electuary.

An elegant Syrup of which one ounce ought to be taken before they drink Wine, Take of the juyce of white Cole∣worts, sour Pomegranates, Currance each two ounces, Vinegar one ounce; boilthem together for your use.

They are less foxed who drink larest not till their sto∣mach is well filled with Victuals; but they quickly who hasten to drink Wine fasting, or presently at the begin∣ning of a Meal.

Outwardly Ivy applied to the Head like a Garland or the Juyce of it moved to the Head keeps off Drunken∣ness.

Also the wearing of an Amethyst ston is beleeved can do the like.

But to cure those that are already drunk, that the wine may do them the less hurt, Vomiting doth very much help; or if you give them acid things presently at the end of the Meal, or the sooner the better, and let them be taken plentifully, because as it was said in Narcoticks they weaken the efficacy of the Wine, of which sort are these following.

Frumenty of Milk and Barley flower with Vinegar also sour Milk as it is wont to concrete.

Sour Apples eaten, also acid Peaches and their juyce as also Quinces.

The Heads of Coleworts condite, and Rapes till they grow acid, as our Country men are wont to prepare them, do very much help.

Vinegar drank diluted with water, or taken by it self in a good quantity, is an Antidote against Drunkenness, with which a certain eminent Foxer, for a long time being dayly drunk, was wont to guard himself, that he might take no hurt by it.

Besides these, Lettice, Mint, Wormwood, Myrtle-berries being eaten, or the Juyce of them taken do keep off Drunkenness.

The distilled water of Saffron flowers being drunk doth the same.

The smell of Camphyre and Saunders likewise do good,

Also Oxyrrhodines applied to the Head.

And if the Cods be moistned with Vinegar or cold water.

All which doubtless will do good not only in that te∣mulency which is contracted by Wine, but also in that which proceeds from the like inebriating things, as hath been said, as also we have said that Narcoticks for the same reason are corrected by acid things; and for the taking of mad Nightshade we have shewed that Vinegar is a Re∣medy,

But what things besides these mentioned, do by a cer∣tain propriety resist some as wel Narcoticks as others, shall be explained in their place.

Melancholly or Madness arising from Poyson either taken in, * 1.31 or by a bite or blow entring the Body, that Madness only which is caused by the biting of a mad Dog is here pro∣pounded, whenas the other species are rarely existent because the Cause is rare, neither is there any other cure applied to them, then what is due also to other Poy∣son.

In the biting therefore of a mad Dog or Wolf (for they differ not in the Cure) although it be a very dangerous affect, yet Remedies being suddainly applied very ma∣ny are healed; but after the evil hath so far gathered strength, that they now are afraid of the Water, they are very hardly restored, as Dioscorides mentions and most of them die; in which notwithstanding some hopes of recovery is conceived by this signe, if looking upon a looking Glass or the Water, in which the image of a Dog is represented to them, as hath been said, they take notice that it is an error, and that they are deceived, or that not appearing they acknowledg their own figure offering it self.

Presently therefore the wound made by a bite must be di∣lated and the Lips of the wound must be scarified that the Blood may flow very well, and with Cupping glasses ap∣plied with much fire or with Leeches if they be at hand, the strength of the Poyson must be drawn forth, because though the wound be great and large, which by reason of the plenty of blood flowing forth, with which part of the virulent spittle is exhausted, is better then if it were small and narrow, nevertheless it must be done, and the flesh torn and cut round about with a Pen-knife must be cut off.

Burning also made with an actual Cautery seeing the fire doth tame Poyson and suffer it not to go further, is a most ready Remedy: and we must have a Care that the escar falling off, the wound be not cicatrized, before the fortieth day or till after that time, and that either by a septick or corroding Medicine such as is precipitate the which also we may use at first if he will not endure bur∣ning instead of that, or else burning must be repeated; and we must take Care that the wound be rather sordid and ill disposed, then clean, and that it be not closed up, by applying those things, which besides that they do at∣tract Poyson, may also suppurate the flesh.

Which may be done, if grains of Whea chewed or ba∣ked be applied to the wound, because they suppurate and dilate the wound, and when they are chewed by rea∣son of the spittle they help also by a propriety.

An Onion, wild Garlick and Rue bruised together, and made up with Honey and Salt do egregiously attract Poyson, and the more if Treacle also be mixt with them to which Dioscorides adds the Cyrenaick juyce.

If a fourth part of Opoponax and a sixth of Vinegar be ad∣ded to Brutian pitch, or instead of it you may take the common, it will make an attractive Plaister most effectual for these things as Galen teacheth.

The salted flesh of the Fish Smaris and Omotaricbus ap∣plied and other salt things do good; also the sauce of all salt Fish applied for Fomentation.

Sour Docks, pounded, stinking Horehound, Fennel Roots, Rue, Angelica Roots, Laser, Herculean Panax, bruised with Honey and Salt do the same.

Such Remedies also must be given presently to drink as may by a propriety overcome the force of this poy∣son, such as are made of the true River Crab called Car∣cinus, which Diascorides and Galen have much approved; instead of which Rondeletius takes the sea Crab, and that found in the standing Pool by the Sea of Monspessulus; and we perhaps may take with equal success our River Crab since that also resists poysons.

But these Antidotes must be prepared after this man∣ner, Take of the ashes of the true River Crab burnt in the prunings of the white Vine and poudered two parts, the roots of Gentian most finely poudered, one part, mix them, give two spoonefuls with clear wine for four daies after which give the trebble weight, Dioscoide doth witness that this one thing hath benefited many, and Damocrates be∣fore Dioscorides described this Antidote in Verse, and Ga∣len so commends it, that he testifies no man died that used it.

Galen also prepares and gives the pouder of the simple ashes the Crabs being burnt alive in a copper Dish.

Or he gives it Compounded thus, which he relates he had from his Master Aeschion the Emprick, and he highly commends it, Take of the ashes of tiver Crabs burnt ten parts, the Roots of Gentian five parts, Frankincense one part, instead of which the Ancients added Rosin of the Turpen∣tine

Page 36

tree, make a pouder, give every day the measure of a great spoonful sprinkled in water for forty daies, or if the Physitian come late let him give two spoonfuls at a time.

There are who prepare this Medicine thus. Take of the ashes of Crabs parts two, Gentian roots part one and an half, Myrrh part one, make a pouder.

Besides these Antidotes Dioscorides and Galen do mag∣nifie the Liver of a mad Dog roasted and given.

Also the blood and urine of a Dog, as also the Runnet of a Hare, Fox, or Goat.

Galen's Dry Alysson given forty daies together in Hydromel, he testifies is Archigenes Effectual Reme∣dy.

Aetius teacheth that Iudiack Bitumen one dram, drank with Water doth cure this affect.

The roots of Swallow-wort drank one dram and an half weight, with the Water of Blessed Thistle for forty daies, is Mathiolus Remedy. Star-vervain also is good, and the bark of Wild fig tree, drank with water, also the root of Vipers grass or the juyce of it, as also the root of Angelico with Niter.

Also Honey of Roses drank saith Dioscorides,

Mithridate and Treacle, as they are adverse to all poy∣sons, so to this also.

But those things which profit both taken and applied, are as follow.

The Sea-horse wrought with Honey and Vinegar.

Balm, Mugwort, Wormwood, Centory, round Birthwort, Germander, Pennyroyal, the root of roundish leav'd Dock, shard Dock and Bryony.

For matter of Diet, 'tis good if they eat Garlick, Leeks Onions, also the true River Crabs, season their meat with Spices, drink pure and sweet Wine. Avicen commands to drink Irond, or steeled water, also Milk Curds which moves to stool, and tames poyson,

In the first place drinking of water which they so much fear, doth cure the Hydrcphobous, wherefore they must be deceived by al means that they may drink it through a long pipe, or by some other sleight and not behold it, for which cause they advised to boyl back Vetches in it which also resist poyson, that so the water being made more darkish to him to behold it, it may repre∣sent no Image which may strike fear into them, and al∣so that they may be made very thirsty a young Dogs runnet is given to drink with Vinegar for then Aetius writes that they are taken with a desire of water, and he highly commends it.

Avicen teacheth that the provocation of urin, so far and with such strong medicines that they piss blood too, doth very much help, who as it hath been said, thought that puppy Dogs or somwhat like them hath been voi∣ded by urine.

And for this cause commends the use of Cantharides, which may more rightly be given thus, Take of Can∣tharides breaking off their tender wings one dram, Lentiles clensed half a dram, Spike, Cloves, Saffron, of each half a dram; give halfia scruple with Wine to them fast∣ing for three or foudaies til they void blood.

Sharp Dock if it be given to drink causeth a plentifull and turbulent pissing with which plant alone given, if also the wound be fomented with the Decoction of it and be anointed with the juyce of it, a certain man did perfectly cure those bitten with a mad Dog, as Avicen tea∣ches.

Dioscorides teacheth that the provoking of sweat before and after meat doth good.

The same writes that Evacuations by the Belly do also bring great help, if it be caused by Hiera of Coloquintida or by Hellebore whose quality he thinks is so great that it will cure almost the desperate, the which also may be done by other purgers chiefly destined to melancholick Hu∣mors.

Dioscorides also useth Dropacismes, Sinapismes over the whole Body as some also do allow of Cauteries applied to the hinder part of the Head and behind the Ears.

Amongst Amulets a Tooth drawn from the Dog that bit and tied to the Arm also Hares pul'd from the same Dog and laid on the wound are thought to do much.

They write that in some places the Priests do cure this evil with exorcismes which seeing they are things preternatural, we leave them.

A perturbation or commotion of the Mind conceived from a vehement or long continued affect of the Mind somtimes ceason of its own accord, somtimes hardly gives way, oftentimes can never be corrected: for profuse joy easily vanisheth, * 1.32 anger also is a short Madness especially in those, who presently grow hot and look red but suddainly again abate, who then are wont almost to be sor∣ry that they were angry; Sadness from grief of Mind ceaseth with time, seeing there is no grief as Cicero saith, which the length of time doth not either change or di∣minish, envy conceived is hardly blotted out; ambition in some, and coveteousness especially in the aged once imprinted in their Minds, can scarce be rooted out; all which notwithstanding do not so much make men mad as Love doth in which although there seem to be onely a light Alienation of the mind at first, yet if it take deeper Root, it doth so disturb it that somtimes it drives men to true madness and dispair: a true and persevering melan∣choly arising from fright is more pertinacious then al the rest, and hard to be cured, oftimes tormenting and con∣suming a man for many years and at length making them desperate; and also we cannot correct that Folly contracted by custom,

Yet the Cure must not be neglected, if the evil perse∣vere, and there be hurt or Danger, which may be done,

First of all by taking away the Cause and the occasions from which these proceed, if they being still present do foment or increase the affect; as in anger by turning a∣way that which offends, in sadness that which troubles, and so of the rest; but chiefly the principal Remedy of Love is to remove the object and sting of it, speedily a far off and a long time which the vulgar intimate by this Proverb, out of sight, out of mind; and what is wont to be said is good in the Plague quickly, a far off, slowly, here also is the principal Rule of Cure.

Oftentimes the affections of the mind are mitigated or driven away by Counsel, Admonition, Perswasion, by pro∣pounding according as the mind is affected that it is nothing or of no moment, then by explaining the Dis∣comodities that follow from thence, somtimes the of∣fence to God, and comforting them with the hopes of changing the present life for a future that is better and not far off: the which if they avail not, by severely threatning also Gods displeasure and the punishment of Hell, by reproving them, and chastising them also with stripes if they obey not, til those things which they love be loathsome to them, as Gordonius writes.

But principally in some passions of the mind it brings a great deal of help, to move the affections of the Mind which are contrary to this affect that troubles, and so to bring them into a contrary passion, seeing they do bring them to a mean, as contraries are wont to be cu∣red by contraries, and so those things are taken away which otherwise would not give place; thus those lif∣ted up with too much joy, if they hear ill News, do presen∣tly abate; and those that are sad are refreshed with unex∣pected

Page 37

and vehement gladness; so the angry are mitigated if they be frighted, if those frighted be stirred up to anger they are freed; those that hate vehemently are reconci∣led being moved with mercy; and those that are opprest with grievous Love if they can be driven to hate the per∣son which they Love, they are most certainly freed, whether they may somtimes be brought, if they hear dishonest and filthy things of her, which are either in∣vented or true, but blind Lovers see them not, but espe∣cially in generous minds, if they think themselves de∣spised by their Love and suffer a repulse (for nothing fosters love equally as reciprocal love, and nothing is more deer than to be beloved again) presently in∣dignation follows which persevering, unless it be ex∣tinguisht by some false and extorted tear, breeds ha∣tred: hither also is referd the vehement intention of the mind upon some other things which is wont to put out that conceived before, or at least waies to diminsh it, whence the Poet saith, Shun Idleness and Cupids darts are lost, and if the apprehension be divided into two or three affects though the same, it comes to pass that being divided or dispersed 'tis less strong than if it were united; for the sense intent on many things is less able for each particular whence Ovid reckon'd it amongst the Remedies of love for one man to have two Mistresses.

But what chiefly concerns the operation of the Phy∣sitian, in sudden and vehement passions of the mind, he must diligently observe the commotion of the spirits and humors, which in some affects are moved from the Center to the su∣perficies, in others on the contrary, and must reduce them by a contrary motion to the seat destined for them; but we call forth those which do as it were oppress the heart in frights and sadness with frictions and pleasant exercises and especi∣ally with those that are proper, & with a bath; and again those which are poured forth with Anger, Joy, we repell again to the inward parts, not only by a contrary affect of mind as hath been said, but also by sprinkling of cold water and bleeding, the which notwithstanding ought not to be done in the very madness, but a little after.

But in persevering passions of the mind and those that al∣ready change the body according to the constitution of the body, and redundancy of the humors viz. of a ple∣nitude or Cacochymie, we wil order the evacuations and alterations both for the cure and preservation if they be dis∣posed to these or those affects; and if a true Melancholly or maddess do follow thence, as hath been said doth chiefly happen from a fright, the cure must be perfected after the same manner as shall be explained there.

If a melanchollick, thick, burning and malignant blood contained in the mesaraick veins as hath been said, by its vapor do produce the said hypochondriacal melancholly, al∣though it be milder because 'tis somtimes mitigated or ceaseth, than the true one seems to be, yet it is also very grievous, both because it doth not only dlsturb the mind but also induceth so many other affects offering them∣selves especially about the natural parts, as hath been ex∣pounded; and because tis an evil so pertinacious & last∣ing, and so hardly admitting of cure, and that therefore, because the matter of it lying hid in the mesaraick veins and being ever and anon new, increased from the ex∣crements of things taken continually heaped up, and cannot be drawn forth by drawing of blood unless this be done by the hemoroidal veins, nor doth easily give way to purgers, as also we have demonstrated in Feavers that the cause of continuance of a quartan Ague doth happen by occasion of this place, & almost the like matter, into which also this affect is often changed, if putrifaction invade the blood, or otherwise it breeds obstructions and tumors of the neighboring bowels, the Spleen, Li∣ver, and of their veins, and sometimes by its vapor in∣fecting the mass of blood in the rest of the body, it is converted into the true and persevering melancholly.

The scope of curing consists in this, that that melanchol∣lick matter contained in the mesaraick veins, be emptied either by bleeding, or by calling it forth to the stomach and Guts, by vomit, and stool, with those things which o∣pen obstructions and solicit nature to excretion, than by preventing that new matter be not generated again, by ordering a good concoction; and by diverting the vapors that they be not carried upwards, and disturb the head especially, and create trouble also to the heart; and by strengthening these principal parts, and providing for the sto∣mach, Liver, Spleen, that they be not hurt.

Taking away of blood would be very convenient, if it could be done from the branches of the Vena porta, which seeing they can be opened no where unless about the Arse, or the mouths belonging to the Stomach and Guts, and this unless nature do it of her own accord, 'tis dangerous to attempt otherwise with medicines which must be highly acrid, as Coloquintida (unless things ve∣hemently bitter could do it as Aloes which is wont to open the veins, and is convenient here also as shall be said) nothing wil be more excellent than to open the Hemorrhoids, unless they flow of their own accord, by applying of Leeches or by other applications, and if they swell, and appear, by Section: the which flowing ei∣ther of themselves or being opened by force this affect hath been often cured, which before could not be cu∣red; also by the courses Women will find very much help, seeing it is a natural evacuation, if being supprest they be provoked, because by these also perhaps the mesaraick veins may exonerate themselves; but to o∣pen the other cutaneous veins which are branches of the Vena Cava unless a plenitude perswade it, or that blood al∣so be already infected is, otherwise supervacaneous.

A Vomit, especially in those used to it, and the evil be∣ing now very far protracted, is very convenient, be∣cause the excrements which in those places are conti∣nually almost collected at the first concoction, are sud∣denly cast forth, and somtimes the matter retained in the mesaraick veins also, by this passage, as was said in intermitting Feavers, or some part of it, especially the chollerick, the which notwithstanding may be ordered with gentler things at first, afterwards if they help not, with stronger in strong bodies.

An irritation and laxation of the belly do revell the va∣pors flying upwards, and makes a way for the wind ge∣nerated of them, as also from crudities to break forth and it wil do so much the more good, if the belly be bound. This is done by Supositories, and to more be∣nefit with Clysters, which seeing they do wholly enter the Guts, they do empty part of the filth from the me∣saraick veins also; which if they be cast in every other day or daily, it wil be far safer than to give things too much purging, which they loath at last, and by reason of the long continuance of the disease do scarce endure, and so to draw down the mater successively from the neighboring parts to the Guts, wherefore they must be often repeated, which are prepared after this manner, of things moist, lenitive, discussing, wind-stimulating, and purging. Take of the leaves of Mallows, Coleworts, Mer∣cury or Beets, of each one handful; roots of Oak fern one ounce, Dodder of Time or Vetches, Time, of each two drams; Flowers of Chamomel, Feverfew, Dill, Violets (by reason of the heat) of each one pugil; of Bran one pugil, make a Decoction, and in a decent quantity of that strained, dissolve Honey of Roses one ounce, red Sugar half an ounce, Hiera Picra, two drams, Oyl of Lillies, Chamomel one ounce and an half; a little Salt, make a Clyster; if you would evacuate stronger, in the Decoction add Fumitory and Senna (we omit Hops be∣cause

Page 38

they assail the Head) and dissolve Confection of Hamech, or the juyce of Mercury, &c. as shall be explai∣ned in the Clysters in Melancholy.

Purging must be used which may drive forth the matter from the Mesaraick Veins and often reiterated by course, the passages being first opened which are wont to be obstructed, and the humor prepared for Evacuation, yet we must have a care of things strongly Heating, Drying, because they increase the Disease, administring them almost after the same manner, as they ought to be used in Quartane Feavers.

It shall be prepared therefore with this Julep taking it for some daies before Purging: Take of Syrup Bizan∣tine simple, Endive, of each two ounces; sweet smelling Apples, Dodder of Time, of each half an ounce; the waters of Bugloss, Succory, Fumitory, of each three ounces: Make a Julep, Aromatise it with Pouder of Diarrhodon, or let him take a Lozenge of it afterwards.

Such a Decoction may be given instead of that after the same manner. Take of the Roots of Grass, Aspara∣gus, Borrage, of each one ounce; Liquorish half an ounce; Endive, Succory, Maiden-hare, Ceterach, Betony, of each one handful; Flowers of Borrage, Bugloss, Scabious, Ta∣marisk, of each one pugil: Rosemary flowers, half a pugil; the four greater cold Seeds, Annis seed of each two drams; Fennel seed one dram: Make a Decoction, and in one pound of it add, of the juyce of Apples boyled away to a third, three ounces: Aromatise it with a little Cinnamon.

Or, Let them use it with Wine if they would open more vehemently, after this manner, with better suc∣cess for the most part, because our Wine doth not heat so much, as hath been said elsewhere: Take of the roots of Succory, Grass, of each one ounce; Elecampane (because it makes merry) two drams; Miltwaste, Aspa∣ragus, Germander, Fumatory, of each two drams; of the Cordial flowers, of each one dram and an half; Fennel seed one dram: Being bruised, infuse them in common white Wine, or if it be stronge dilute it, let him use it four or five daies in the morne.

Let him be Purged then with a gentle Decoction, for the evil is exasperated by strong Medicines, of which sort this of many is convenient. Take of Senna clensed, Oak ferne, wild Saffron, of each half an ounce; Dodder of Time two drams, Raisons twenty, Prunes ten, fresh Borrage Roots one ounce, Liquorish one ounce, of the Cordial flowers, of each one pugil; Ann is seed half an ounce. Make a Decoction in Water and white Wine; in four ounces of that strained, Dissolve of Catholicon half an ounce, or syrup of Roses solutive one ounce.

Or let him use this following: Take of Catholicon one ounce, Confection Hamech one dram and an half, Syrup of Roses solutive with Rhubarb, infused one ounce with the waters of Bugloss, Fumitory as much as is sufficient, and a little Cinnamon, to Aromatise it.

Purgers must be repeated by course in a long continued Disease, especially if he will not use Clysters, or they must be used successively, that the obstructions being taken away, and Nature constantly solicited may the rather cast off the Excrements to the Guts from the Mesaraick Veins; and that in divers formes of Syrups, Wine, Pills so prepared that they may be kept long for use: before which preparatives ought alwaies to be premised for some daies, or must be mixt together with them in the Compositions of which we will bring these few examples.

A thickned Syrup therefore may be made thus, which he may use every other day or three daies together; and after some few daies repeat it: Take of the Roots of Grass, Succory, of each one ounce; Fennel, Parsly, of each half an ounce; Orrice two drams, fresh Borrage one ounce and an half, Asarabacca two drams, the bark of Capers, Tamarisk, of each half an ounce: the berbs of Fumitory, Hops, Germander, Ground-pine, Milt-wast, Betony, of each one handful; the four Cordial flowers, and of Tama∣risk, of each one pugil; Annis seed half an ounce, Fennel seed two drams, Raisons one ounce, Senna two ounces and an half, Oak Fern, wild Saffron, of each one ounce and an half; Dodder of Time half an ounce: Make a Decoction, and in that Strained, infuse Rhubarb two drams, Agarick three drams, Cinnamon one dram, Ginger half a dram; the juyce of Appels thickned three ounces, of Borrage one ounce, Sugar three ounces: Make a Decoction to the thickness of a Syrup: give two ounces, more or less as it shall work, dissolve it in Water, Broth, or Wine.

Matthiolus doth very much commend Syrup of Oak Fern against this affect.

A Wine may be prepared of the same thing dryed and infused, adding Wormwood three drams, Marjoram one dram: But because it corrupts being long kept, let only one half of it be infused, and let him take it for two daies, afterwards when there shall be need again, make a new infusion of the other part.

Pills in this case as in all the like obstructions are most profitable, the which provoke both the Hemrods and Courses: Take of Aloes two drams, Myrrh half a dram (against putrid Humors) Dodder of Time one dram, Roots of Gentian, Asarabacca, of each half a dram; Gum Amo∣niack dissolved in Vinegar one scruple (if there be a hardness about the Glandules of the caule and Mesentery, as often∣times there is) Parsly seed half a dram, Choice Rhubarb one dram and an half, Spike one scruple. With joyce of Wormwood, Make a Mass, let him take two scruples every other or third day, Mesues Tryphera of Dodder of Time if it be given every other day is a singular remedy in Hypochondriacal Melancholly.

After the use of Purgers let the Patient be strengthened the next day, by using Conserves of the roots of Bugloss, or some such like.

In the interim that the obstructions may be dissol∣ved, and the matter be called forth from the Mesaraick Veins to the Guts, remedies must be applied to the whol Belly, because through that, the Mesaraick Veins do enter into the caul and Mesentery

And first make a Fomentation after this manner, with which the Belly may be fomented warm with a Spunge, once a day before taking of meat, or twice in the mor∣ning and evening at the first: Take of the Herbs Worm∣wood, Southernwood, Feverfew, Time, of each one handful; Flowers of Chamomel, Melilot, Elder, Broom, of each one pugil; Bay berries one ounce and an half, Annis seed two drams, the Bark of Danewort, Roots of Oak ferne, Senna, Dodder of Time, of each three drams; Make a Decoction in equal parts of Water and Wine, adding a little white Wine Vinegar or of Squils, for a Fomeutation.

Instead of a Fomentation, a Bath of sweet water, and other temperate and moisting things is convenient.

After the Fomentation or Bath let the Region of the Sto∣mach, Hypochondries and Belly be anointed with such an Oyntment: Take of Oyl of sweet Almonds, Chamomel, Dill, of each one ounce; of bitter Almonds, Elder, Capers, of each six drams; of Orrice, Spik, of each half an ounce; juyce of wormwood one ounce, white Wine Vinegar of Squils one ounce; Boyl them to a Consumption of the juyces, add Gum Ammoniack dissolved in Vinegar one ounce, Asarabacca root one dram, seeds of Gith, Coleworts of each half a dram, Saffron one scruple, Wax as much as is sufficient: Make a Liniment.

Cupping Glasses somtimes applied on the Belly without Scarification, with much flame, do egregiously discuss wind, and call forth the matter.

Rnbefiers also upon that accompt are somtimes ap∣plied,

Page 39

amongst which the Plaister of Mustard seed is ve∣ry much commended, there are also who do apply Vesicatories. Pication made on the Belly being first anoin∣ted with Oyl, is very much approved off in some.

But that matter may not be continually heaped up a new, we must take care by a good Course of Dyet of good juyce, temperate, and no waies windy. Upon which account those things which discuss wind, as Annis seed, Fennel seed, Carawaies, Pepper, Ginger are added to the Meats, yet in that quantity that they do not to much inflame which we must chiefly have a care on for which cause also if they can intermit the use of Wine, Rhazis saith they need no other Medicine, he understanding strong wine, because that which is thin and gentle can no waies hurt especial∣ly those that are accustomed to it.

Last of all the Vapors and Wine may be discust by giving a Pouder every other day after Meat or before, the weight of one spoonful, which may be prepared thus, Take of the seeds of Annis half an ounce, Fennel two drams, Carawaies one dram, the Cordial flowers, of each half a dram: Make a Pouder, add of the Tables of Sugar Rosate two ounces.

We must divert the ascent of Vapors with Frictions, Ligatures, and Lotions of the extream Parts rightly applied to their due time.

We must also have a care of the principal parts; the Head, Heart, Stomach, Spleen, Liver, which are at last hurt by the long continuance and Malice of the Disease; by watring, Anointing the Head which is chiefly affected, as shall be said in the true Melancholly; by strengthing also the Heart with Epithems, Bags, which is hurt and palpitates by reason of these Vapors: by comforting the Stomach which belches being troubled with wind, with external and internal Confections that further Concoction, yet not too hot: and by taking care that the Liver and Spleen be not hardend, by external and internal means, as shall be propounded in their faults of this Nature.

A Melancholly blood in the Vena Cava, * 1.33 such as we have described to be Malignant, abounding ei∣ther in the Head or about the greater Veins of the trunk of the Body, or about the Womb in the Blood there, which is the matter of the menstruous Blood and Seed, producing a Me∣lancholy or Madness, if it be worse, because it can hardly all be drawn forth as long as there yet remaines some portion of that blood, so long that pertinatious and long continued evil lasts; with which oftentimes they are miserably afflicted, not only for some months but years also somtimes to the end of their life; and if they be Mad, they are kept inclosed in Prisons, never∣theless performing the other Vital and Natural acti∣ons; unless these be weakend, because when they are troubled in Minde they offend in many things, and because they waist themselves with grief if they have yet any Reason left: therefore we ought not rashly to promise any hopes of recovery, although we have known many Cured as shall be said especially by large Bleeding, and some Mad and Raging from their youth until extream old age, in which they have so come to themselves, that afterwards going about free from their Prison and Bands, they would no more hurt any Body, or provoke them with words; and then also there is better hopes, if they yet act all things moderately, and do things rather laughing then with a sterne look, and are somtimes obedient to those that admonish them, and do admit of Medicines.

The Method and Indication for Cure will be such; that we Evacuate that matter out of the Veins and di∣vert it from the more Noble Parts that are hurt by it, from the Brain chiefly and the Heart; for as experi∣ence hath taught that other Diseases also generated from a certain Malignant matter are somtimes cured by many Evacuations (as is apparent in the French Pox) so we have seen oftentimes both in Melancholly and Madness proceeding from this Malignant matter that Empericks by many and frequent Evacuations have cured many left off by other Physitians, who were a∣fraid to use them, and we our selves have often tried it with happy success, which may be done by divers forms and manners as by drawing blood from the body, or deriving it to other places by Purgations made by stool and by vomiting; then we will correct with things al∣tering or changing that distemper or Melancholick constitution in the Blood almost of the whol Body, and in the ptincipal body, and in the principal bowls especially the Brain and Heart, by giving of Medicines and applying outward helps to the Head, Heart, Liver, Spleen, and certain other parts of the Body; also with actual operation by gelding, and hanging on Amulets, in the interim providing for the strength also by a fit course of living which also may correct these faults. Last of all we must have respect unto some other Symptoms which somtimes are supervenient to them, all which how they must be prepared and administred we shall explain in order.

Letting of blood therefore in some great and appar∣ent Cutaneous Vein when as it may not only Evacuate the Blood but together with that the matter of this Dis∣ease lurking in the Veins, it will be the prime and prin∣cipal remedy for the Cure of these affects, if they pro∣ceed from this cause; which though very many I know have not taught it, and some also have disallowed it, yet I have known by long observation that innumer∣able have been cured by this means, by certain Chy∣rurgeons or others who did professedly labor in curing these Diseases, who by opening of a Vein twenty nay fixty times have so restored the perfectly Mad or Me∣lancholick, that afterwards they have yet lived in health a long life; who were not Scrupulous in choo∣sing some certain Vein but somtimes opend a Vein of the Arm, by and by this or that in the Foot, anon in an∣other place without any difference, which kind of re∣medy therefore we also ought to use and no waies neg∣lect, but with greater care and providence then they who undertake to cure only those who are as it were given over, Methodically premising alwaies washings of the Belly, and Purgations intermixt, as shall be said.

Therfore some Vein of the Arm which is most apparent must be first opened and reiterated; next must be ope∣ned a Vein in the Hand especially the Salvatella of the left Hand, privatly for the Spleens sake, with which it is thought to have consent; and also in the Feet the Vein of the Ankle called the Saphaena and the sooner if the Cour∣ses flow not right; or that which runs to the great Toe which Empericks do open chiefly in this case, because it is thought to communicate with the Head. Also the Vein of the Forehead, if the Evil do continue, and the Cause be discovered to lie chiefly about the Head, must be opened, and Blood must be provoked from the Nostrils, by thrusting of Bristles, applying of Leeches, and putting up other rough things, also knotted Veins appear in the Thighs or else where seeing they contain a great quantity of this like Melancholick matter thrust thither by nature and there heaped up, they must be opened and the filth must be let out this way, which cannot but profit very much; a Provocation of the Courses if they be not decently purged, or be stopt, wil help much, seeing they may be the cause of this evil

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as hath been said; also the opening of the Hemor∣rhoids, although they be branches of the Vena porta in those that are accustomed to them wil help very much: Hither also may be refer'd Scarifications, made especi∣ally in those places where otherwise we ought to open a Vein, as in the Arms and Feet, or somtimes where we are not wont to open a Vein as in the Shoulders, which certainly do not only evacuate the blood, but if Cup∣ping-Glasses be applied, they do also egregiously re∣vell the matter from the Head, and as I have observed do oftentimes profit much.

Upon which account also are applied, Frictions, Dropaxes, Vesicatories, Cauteries and Cuttings made in the Head, and Trepanning in those that are despe∣rate, part of the bone being taken away, and the hole left open for a month.

It is conveninent to Clense the Guts often from their excrements with Suppositories and more rightly with Clysters, which although they do not so much empty the Melancholly matter lurking in the more di∣stant veins, as they do in the Hypochondriacal, in which it is neer to the Guts, yet before Bleeding and other Purgations, that they may succeed the better, 'tis safer first of all to bring forth the thicker excrements by Clysters, to which sometimes we must mix those things which are good to evacuate Melancholly, which being continued will effect something also in a cause more difficult.

A more simple one therefore which is most excellent Egregiously stimulating may be made thus, Take of juyces of Mercury or Beets two ounces, Mallows one ounce, common Honey two ounces, let them be dissolved with the fat and salt broth of flesh, and let it be given.

A more Compound one may be made thus which he may use by course, which is Emollient purging and stimulating, Take of the herbs Mallows, Orach, Bleets, Beets or Mercury, both Buglosses, Fumitory, of each one handful; flowers of Chamomel, Melilot, Elder, of each one pugil; Figs twelve, Bran one pugil, Flax seed half an ounce, Mallows, Fennel, of each two drams; make a Decoction, dissolve Honey of Violets or Roses two ounces, juyce of Mer∣cury or Beets one ounce, Benedicta Laxativa two drams, Oyl of Chamomel, Butter, of each one ounce and an half; a little Salt, make a Clyster.

In Mad Folks especially, it shal be prepared of stron∣ger Purgers, thus, Take of the roots of Marsh-mallows one ounce, the herbs Mallows, both Buglosses, Mercury, Hops, Fumitory, Time, of each one handful; flowers of Chamomel, Elder, both Bugloss, Violets, of each one pugil; Flax seed, Guords, of each half an ounce; seeds of Mallows, Fennel, of each two drams; seeds of Rue, Chast tree, of each one dram; Figs twelve, Tamarinds half an ounce, Bran, Barley, of each one pugil; Oakfern, Senna, wild Saffron, of each six drams; white Hellebore half a dram, or black one dram, make a De∣coction, dissolve Honey of Violets, red Sugar, of each one ounce; Hiera of Coloquintida, Diasena solutive, Confection Hamech, of each two drams; juyce of Mercury one ounce and an half, Oyl of Violets, Chamomel, Lillies, of each one ounce; Salt as much as is sufficient, make a Clyster.

'Tis convenient to Purge this Matter out of the Veins beginning with the Gentler and going to Stron∣ger, and continuing them for a long time, for they can endure it for the most part easily, and though they be somwhat weakned, nevertheless it doth good, seeing upon that account they become more calmed and qui∣et, neither can it hurt them much, seeing they may also be continually refreshed: therefore the humor being first prepared, Evacuation ought presently to follow, being administred once, twice, or thrice together, and this must weekly be repeated once or twice, intermix∣ing letting of blood, as hath been said; and once in a month also as Avicen teacheth, we must give a very strong Purger, for the chief nature of the Cure consists in those great Evacuations of the blood and Excre∣ments, whence successively the matter of the disease is taken away as hath been said.

The Humor is prepared before Purging, by obser∣ving whether they be very Cholerick that are affected with this evil, for then we must use things more Cold and Acrid, after this mauner. Take of Syrup of Violets, Borrage, of each two ounces, of Vinegar simple one ounce, the waters of both Buglosses, Lettice, Water-lillies, of each as much as is sufficient, make a Julep for four or five times aromatizing it with the pouder of the three Sanders, or gi∣ving a Lozenge of it after every dose.

Or make one thus of Juyces, Take of the juyces of both Buglosses, of sweet smelling apples of each two ounces and an half, the waters of both Bugloss, Fumitory, of each three ounces; Sugar two ounces, boyl them, and clarifie them, and aromatize it with Cinnamon, for some doses.

By a Decoction or Infusion let it be prepared thus, Take of the Roots of both Buglosses, Liquorish of each one ounce; the bark of Tamariisk half an ounce, Fumitory one handful, Miltwast half a handful, the Cordial flowers, of each one pugil; Water-lilly flowers half a pugil, Time one pugil, boyl them in common water and a Cup of Wine, add of Sugar and the juyce of Apples each two ounces, aromatize it for some doses.

Or let them be infused in thin Wine adding for the scents sake a little Wormwood, and let him drink it.

Then let the Humor be purged as hath been said by giving of divers forms dedicated to the Melanchollick humor, which if the Patients wil not obey, may be pre∣pared thus, that under the form of Wine or of some o∣ther Medicine that is most familiar to them, we may be able to deceive them, many of which have been spo∣ken of the in Melanagoge purging Remedies, here we wil propound certain choyce ones.

At the beginning therefore, the Humor being prepa∣red let this presently be given, Take of Catholicon one ounce, Confection Hamech two drams, Syrup of Roses solutive one ounce, dissolve them in Whey or Bugloss water, and give it.

Or, Take of Senna Oak-fern, of each half an ounce; Dodder of Time two drams, infuse them in Goats Whey add of fresh Mercury one ounce, Anise seed two drams, Syrup of Fumitory compound, or of sweet smelling Apples half an ounce, make a Potion.

Or, Take of the Pills of the five kinds of the Indian Myrobolans, of Lazulus Stones, each one scruple; with white Wine make Pils.

That the body may be purged successively and at many times, the following things are convenient.

First a Compound Apozem which may be made thus, Take of the roots of Polipody three ounces, the Leaves of Senna two ounces, wild Saffron seed one ounce, Dodder of Time half an ounce, Turbith three drams, Mirobalans, In∣dian, Citrine, Chebuline, rubbed with Oyl of sweet Almonds of each one dram; black Hellebore one dram, White half a dram,) if you would purge Gentler we omit Hellebore if sironger, we increase it) the roots of Grass, Cinquefoyl, Li∣quorish, of each one ounce, Elecampane half an ounce, the barks of Ash, Tamarisk, Danewort, of each half an ounce; the herbs Mercury, Fumitory, Hops, Harts-tongue, both Bugloss with their roots, Miltwast, Maidenhair, Time, Balm, of each one handful; the cordial flowers, of Tamarisk, Sca∣bious, Broom, of each one pugil, seeds of Anise, Melons, of each half an ounce; Guord seeds six drams, Purslane seed two drams, seed of Basil, Chast tree, of each one dram; Ta∣marinds, Raisons, of each one ounce and an half; Prunes

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twelve, Jujubes, Sebestens, of each ten; make a Decoction according to art, in two pound of that strained, infuse of choice Rhubarb half an ounce, Cinnamon two drams, Spike one scruple, strain it, add the juyce of sweet Apples one pound, boyl them again a little, let him use this Syrup for four or five daies early in the morning.

A Syrup also may be made of the same Decoction to be kept for use, with all things doubled, if a just quan∣tity of Sugar be added to the Decoction or instead of it the Decoction of Apples, and it be boyled to a thick∣ness: of which when you have a mind to purge you may give two or three spoonfuls according as it works.

Another Gentler may be prepared thus of the Juyces, Take of the roots of Polipody two ounces, Senna clensed four ounces, Dodder of Time half an ounce, flowers of Borrage, Violets of each one pugil; Anise seed half an ounce, Cin∣namon two drams, bruise them a little, pour to them the juyce of Sweet Apples three pound, the juyce of Borrage clarified three ounces, let them stand in a hot Infusion twen∣ty four hours, then let them boyl a little, strain them, boyl them again to half the thickness of Wine boyled away, or of a Syrup, let him take two ounces more or less by it self or with Wine.

Being Infused also in Goats Whey, they will do good, or in Broth of an old Cock, and give the De∣coction.

A Wine very profitable for this use, may be prepared thus, which must be given at three or four times, see∣ing it cannot be kept longer, unless it be prepared in a Barrel in a greater quantity, all things being doubled or trebled, according as the quantity of Wine or Must shall be greater or less, and those things which are put in be first very wel dried. Take of Snna two ounces, Turbith three drams, Agarick two drams, Mirobalans Indi∣an citrine, chebulane of each one dram; Dodder of Time, Time, of each three drams; the Cordial flowers of each two pugils; the herbs Wormwood, Fumitory, of each three drams; Fennel seed three drams, Ginger half a dram, let them be bruised and infused in four pound of white Wine boyl them a little in a double vessel let him drink it three or four times.

And because the Remedies ought to be changed, o∣ther forms also may be thought upon, as of the follow∣ing Electuary, for tryal of which he may take at the first time three ounces, by it self or dissolved, and ac∣cording to the success, increase or diminish the dose. Take of the pulp of Tamarinds and Cassia extracted with white Wine (for gratefulness) each one ounce, choyce Manna, six drams, of Catholicon or Mesues Triphera, of Dodder of Time, or the Perfian, or the great, two ounces, the bark of Myrobalans Indian, chebuline, rubbed with Oyl of Sweet Almonds of each one dram, Rhubarb a little Molle∣fied in wine one dram and an half, Senna first washt in wine, Dodder of Time, of each two drams; Annis seed two drams, Cinnamon three drams: Make a most fine Pouder, and with Syrup of Roses solutive, Make an Electuary; If you would have it work more powerfully in a less quan∣tity, Take two drams, and add Confection Hamech one dram, and give it.

Such a Pouder may be prepared to deceive the sick, which shal be given at once by it self or with Wine, broth Milk, Hydromel: Take of Lazulus stone washt oftentimes in Hydromel two scruples, Dodder of Time one scruple, Sugar one dram; Pouder them. Or thus: Take of Lazulus stone prepared one scruple, Digredium half a scruple, Turbith one dram, Sugar one dram and an half; give it: Or a usual Compound one, may be made thus, of which give at first Time one dam and an half, by way of tryal, afterwards proceeding with that quantity which shall be found rightest: Take of Lazulus stone often washt in wine and water two drams, Diagridium half a dram, Tur∣bith one dram and an half, Senna half an ounce, Dodder of Time two drams, Tartar one dram, Annis, Cinnamon, of each two drams; Saffron half a scruple, Sugar-candy, the weight of them all, pouder them.

Lozenges may be made of them, or others may be given such as are, the Tablets of the Electuary of Ci∣tron &c.

Vomiting caused somtimes doth very much good, seeing it doth egregiously solicite nature to excretion, especially if it be provoked by giving of those things which do at once empty upwards, whenas they being more robust do easily endure these also, as hath been said in Purgers, but amongst the rest Hellebore especially is so much commended in Madness that it is become a Proverb, Those who are Mad have need of Hellebore, but it is given divers waies, as when we would purge more by the lower parts we rather choose the Black as hath been said in Purgers, but if we would chiefly cause Vomiting we take the white, the Pouder of which or rather the Infusion in Wine is most conveniently gi∣ven, when they have eaten much and drunk Broth, that they may be hurt the less: or the slips or fibres of it thrust through thin slices of Radish and left all night, and afterwards diligently taken out again and the slices steeped in Oxymel, and so give one of them to drink.

This following Helleborism is very much commen∣ded by many, if one spoonful of it be given with fat Broth, Take of the shavings of Hellebore one ounce, infuse them three daies in Rain-water four ounces, boyl them with a gentle fire to a third, to that strained add of Honey wel Skimmed two ounces, keep it for your use.

But if we be minded to empty downwords also, give one spoon ful of this following, Take of the pouder of Hiera of Coloquintida four scruples, Dodder of Time, Senna each two drams, make a pouder, mix it in Honey of Hel∣lebore.

Now they often give for this use, the Pouder of Sti∣bium burnt til it looks cleer or only lightly calcined, as I have tried it, in a few grains, or the Infusion of it in Wine, from whence they are wont plentifully to Vomit, and send downwards Cholerick, Yellowish or Green matter, the which also Mathiolus commends and I have often tried it in strong bodies without any hurt.

The Medicines which they ought to take for altera∣tion sake, are prepared of those things which by a tem∣perate Moisture do correct the force of this filthy and acrid humor, and by a propriety its Malignity; and amend the distemper of the brain which is chiefly affe∣cted, and the heart whose complexion in these cases Avicen thinks is chiesly corrupted, having respect also unto the Spleen where they think the seat of Melan∣cholly, and the Liver which they Suppose also to be af∣fected by reason of that, of which these Medicines are made up, which if we consider the accustomary Com∣positions, they are almost wholly Cordial, the which seeing they do not only refresh, but also do resist the malignant and venenate matter, of which sort this is, we also do allow them, but shunning things too hot and dry, and do prescribe them as followeth.

For an Infusion in Wine or Decoction the which ei∣ther we use simple, adding Sugar Spices, or to make a Syrup these things may be taken, to be used by course, Take of the flowers of both Buglosses (which are appro∣priated to the heart and Spleen) as much as is suffici∣ent, let them steep in ordinary Wine, or let them be boyled in Broths.

For the same reason also other things may be infused

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in Wine as the Leaves of Harts-Tongue, which the com∣mon people is wont to do in this case.

A more Compound infusion or Decoction may be made thus: Take of the flowers of Roses, Violets, both Buglosses, Scabious, Tamarisk, of each one pugil; the Leaves of Betony, Balm, Harts-tongue or Milt-waist, of each one handful; the Root of Elecampane two drams, the seed of Basil one dram: Bruise them for your use.

A Syrup may be made of this Decoction as hath been said; or the following be prepared of Juyces: Take of the Juyces of sweet Apples one pound, of Borrage three ounces, of Mallows (which is thought very profit∣able) two, clarifie them and adding, Sugar half a pound: Boyl them to a consistence.

We use also Juleps rather, then those Compound Cor∣dial waters which some prescribe, because they too much inflame the Body: Take of Rose water three ounces, Bug∣loss two ounces, Balm one ounce, Cinnamon half an ounce, Orange flower water (which they cal water of naffe) two drams, whitt wine one ounce, the whitest Sugar as much as is sufficient, Make a Julep.

Electuaries to be taken by course every other day, drin∣king after a little of the said Julep, or its water with a little wine are made thus, of fewer or more things. Take of the conserves of Roses, Violets, the flowers of both Buglosses, Water Lillies, the Roots of Bugloss and Citron Pill candied, of each half an ounce, the Root of Elecampane one dram, seed of Basil one dram, Pouder of Diamargaritum Frigidum one dram, with Syrup of sweet Apples: Mix them.

Another made of many rare and pretious things, is thus prepared: Take of the Conserves of the four Cordial flowers, of each one ounce, Conserve of water Lillies, Sca∣bious, Clove-gilli-flowers, Tamarisk, Succory, Lange-de∣beef, Eringoes, Satyrion, Rose-mary, Betony flowers, of each half an ounce; the Roots of Bugloss, Lettice, Coleworts, Guords, and flesh of Citrons, Citron pill condited of each one ounce, Emblick Myrobalanes two, the seeds of Guord and Melons clensed, of each half an ounce, Citron seed clensed one dram, seed of Basil one dram and an half, seed of Let∣tice one dram, kermes Berries two drams, sweet Sanders half a dram, Cinnamon one dram, shaving of Harts-horn, Ivory, of each one dram; Vnicorns horn (for Rich men) one scruple, Red Coral one dram, the Pouder of Diamarga∣ritum frigidum or the Electuary of Gems half a dram, Ro∣sata Novella, Diasmoschum, Diarrhodon, Aromaticum Rosatum, Trionsantalon, of each one scruple, Trochisks of Camphire two scruples, Confection of Alkermes and Hya∣cinth of each one dram, Rhases Laetificans two drams, with Syrup of sweet Apples boyled thick, that the Confection which ought to be kept a long time be not corrupted, Make an Electuary.

Theophrastus commends Southern-wood taken with Honey and Vinegar.

We may also use Pouders, and adding Sugar one ounce and an half, to one dram of them, Make Comfits, or dissolve the Sugar in the Waters and Julep exprest, to make Lozenges.

The first shall be such; Take of the Roots of Swallow∣wort one dram, Citron pill, seeds of Basil, of each half a dram; Pearl half a scruple: Make a Pouder for use as hath been said,

Or thus, Take of the Cordial flowers, the Leaves of Balm, Marjoram, of each one scruple, Citron pill, Basil seed, of each half a dram; sweet Saunders one scruple, sha∣ving of Ivory one scruple, Coral half a dram, Pearl half a scruple, Cinnamon half a dram: Make a Pouder.

Or out of the usuall Pouders, as Diamargariton, or the Electuary of Gems and other things in the said Elect∣uaries both Pouders and Lozenges may be made.

Lozenges made after this manner are very Cordial and appropriate to the Head: Take of Confection Al∣kermes or of Hyacinth one dram, Pouder of Diamdrgaritum Frigidum, Electuary of Gems, of each half a dram, Dia∣moschum, Aromaticum Rosatum, of each half a dram; seed of Basil one scruple, Sugar dissolved in the Juyce of sweet Apples as much as is sufficient; Make Lozenges.

Remedies are outwardly applied to the Head in which the Brain residing is alwaies affected in these Diseases, either by it self or by consent, and where som∣times the cause of the evil lies hid.

And first of all at the beginning use only Repellers if it be Hypochondriacal Melancholy from a Vapor lifted up, or a great fury in Madness: then in the beginning we use an Oxyrrhodine to which notwithstanding we add Oyl of Violets and Chamomel that it dry not too much.

Or we anoynt the Head with Oyl of Roses, Myrtles, Quinces, Violets and Chamomel. But afterwards we must use things very moistning which may also disolve a lit∣tle, and strengthen the Head, and also cause sleep, be∣cause they are much troubled with watching. Let Irrigations or Embrocations be made which are more ac∣customary to our people, or washing and wetting of the Head, and that once a day, or twice, Morning and Evening for many daies, according as we conjecture there is more or less need by their watchings and rest∣lesness; the which also if we use with a Bath before and after the use of it, as shall be said we must irrigate the Head with the same Bath.

But here we do no waies use Lyes, because they dry too much, but the following Decoctions; Take of the Roots of Marsh-mallows one ounce, the Herbs of Violets, Let∣tice and Mallows, of each one handful; Flowers of Violets, water Lillies, Burrage, Chamomel, Melilot, Barley, of each one pugil; Flax seed one ounce, (Faenygreek by reason of its strong smel we omit) Poppy half an ounce: Make a Decoction in the Broth of a Calves Head and Gethers, add a little Wine for an Irrigation.

Another when we would also procure sleep, which for the most part is necessary; Take of the Leaves of Willow, Lettice, Violets, tender Rushes, flowers of Violets, water Lillies, Chamomel, Feaverfew, Time, (especially towards the end) of each one pugil, Guord seeds bruised one ounce, Coriandar two drams, seeds of Lettice, Marsh∣mallows, Dill, of each one dram, of the bark or Heads of Poppy or Roots of Mandracke one ounce, the Leaves of Hen∣bane one handful: Make a Decoction in the Broth of the Head and Feet of a Weather, or a Calf, or of Chickens, or Swallows, or of a Rams Lungs, adding a little Wine,

Or thus, Take of the Emulsion of the seeds of white Pop∣py and Guord seeds made in Violet water three ounces, Milk two ounces, the Mucilage of the Seeds of Fleawort one ounce, stir them together and apply them.

A ptofitable washing or Embrocation may be thus pre∣pared out of Vnctuous things: Take of Oyl of Violets, Lettice, of each two ounces; Chamomel one ounce, the whites of Egs well benten two, Womens Milk or other Milk four ounces or more; Mix them deligently.

An Unctuous anointing or application to the Head may be made about the Temples, Forehead, and if it be shaved, also on the Hairy part, for the same intention, afterirrigation when it is dry again, or else without it, oftentimes by it self, after this manner: Take of Oyl of Violets, Water Lillies, sweet Almonds, of each one ounce; Chamomel half an ounce, fresh Hogs grease one ounce, the Mucilage of Flax seed one ounce, white Wax as much as is sufficient: Make a Liniment.

A more simple one but nevertheless effectual, may be made thus: Take of the Mucilage of the seed of Flax, Fenugreek, Mallows, Butter, of each two ounces: Hogs-grease four ounces, the Marrow of an Ox or Hog one ounce; apply it.

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But a Compound one and more effectual, will be this: Take of Oyl of Violets, Guord seeds, of each two onuces; of Poppy seed half an ounce, the Mucilage of the seeds of Fleawort one ounce, of the seeds of Lettice, Henbane, of each one dram; Coriander, Myrtles, of each half a dram, Saffron one scruple: Mix them:

Or if they be very much troubled with Watchings: Take of the seeds of Henbane, white Poppy, of each two drams; Mandrake Root one dram, Opium half a scruple, Saffron six grains: Mix them with Oyl of Violets one ounce Chamomel half an ounce: Apply them to the Region of the Head.

About the declination hotter things must be added, in Irringations and Oyntments, made of Time, flowers of Rosemary, French Lavender, Lavender.

And to strengthen the Head, we must strow the fol∣lowing Pouders on the Hair at night, and in the mor∣ning by gentle combeing clense them again: Take of the seeds of Coriander half an ounce, Myrtles two drams, of Lettice, white Poppy, of each one dram; Alkermes berries two drams, flowers of Violets. Roses, each one dram and an half; flowers of Rosemary, Chamomel, of each one dram; Citron pill one dram, Mace, Cloves, of each one scruple: Make a Pouder.

It will be very convenient in a high Fury and Mad∣ness, if we apply to the Crown of the Head, the Lights of a Ram newly taken out, whiles they are yet hot, or if they be cold, heat them again, or apply a Lamb so cut open through the back and Emboweld, or we may lay on the Head a young Pegion cut in the middle and sprinkled with the Pouder of Henbane, and other things which shall by and by be spoken of in a Phrensie we may use for the like reason.

The heart also which we have taught is affected and troubled in these affects, as it hath been demonstrated that it ought to be strengthned by things taken, so it must be furnished with External things endued with the same vertues, that it may be able to resist this vene∣mous humor.

Epithems received as they ought to be in fine linnen must be applied to the Region of the Heart, whiles they are yet fasting, or to the Pulses. such as these are: Take of Rose water three ounces, of Violets, water Lillies, Bugloss, of each two ounces; Balm one ounce, the juyce of sweet Apples, Odoriferous wine, of each one ounce; Vine∣gar of Roses of each half an ounce, Seeds of Basil two drams, of Sorrel one dram, Wood of Aloes and Musk, Sanders, of each half a dram, Trochisks of Camphyre, Pouder Dia∣margaritum Frigidum, of each half a dram: Make an Epi∣them, Saffron should be added; if its yellowness, with which it stains things did not hinder, and Ambergrease, also if it were not too dear.

Two Cordial bags may be prepared of a square figure, guilted as they ought to be, one of which ought to be sprinkled with Wine and Rose water, and if it be too moist, to be squeesed and so applied dayly, and when tis removed, the other dry one must be laid on and worn continually.

Which may be made thus: Take of the four Cordial flowers, water Lillies of each one dram; Rosemary flowers one dran, the Leaves of Balm, Marjoram, Coastmary of each one dram and an half; seeds of Basil, Citrons, of each two drams, Sorrel, Lettice, Purslane, of each one dram; Alkermes berries one dram, Musk Sanders one dram, Wood of Aloes half a dram, Cloves one dram, white and red Ben, of each half a dram; Pouder them for your use, also the usual Cordial Pouders, Diamargdritum, de Gemmis, and others may be added.

The Liver and Spleen must not be neglected, as be∣ing principal parts also if they suffer a preternatural heat, or any hurt from this filthy humor, but they must be refresht also with Epithems and Oyntments.

Also remedies applied to certain other parts of the Body may correct its perverse distemper, and refresh it, as if the chief part of it be plunged in a Bath the Feet be washt, the Back bone and Breast be anointed.

A Bath of River water will do good in young and strong bodies being somtimes repeated, by swimming in it for a while when it is fitting by reason of summer or by setting in it at home being made warm; or if by the addition, of moistning things, it be made Artificial, let the patient set in it warm a little while before meat, and afterwards let him rest in his bed, and without using any force, let him sweat of his own accord.

As this is, Take of the Herbs Mallows, both Buglosses, Sallow, the Vine, Lettice, water Lillies, Violets of each one handful: flowers of Chamomel, Melilot, of each one pugil, Marsh-mallow roots two ounces, Flax seed one ounce: Let them be boyled in River or Rose Water, to which may be added some fat or glutinous Decoction, made with the parts of living Creatures, or Milk for Rich Folks.

With the same Bath the Head may be irrigated, and the Feet washed.

The length of the Back bone under which lie the Trunks of the Vena Cava and the great Artery, in which the principal cause of the Disease is, after bathing is anointed,

After this manner: Take Oyl of sweet Almonds two ounces, Violets one ounce, Hens grease one ounce and an half, white Wax a little; Mix them.

The Breast being anointed with the same, it will be∣nefit those parts.

Gelding was wont to be used by the Antients in certain desperate Diseases as was said in an Epilepsie, because it changes the temperament of a man, quels his virility and vehemency, and renders the Body more lax and moist, in mad Men especially that have been long im∣prisoned and are disperate, being otherwise unservice∣able, it is good to see what benefit can be reaped by it, the which all circumstances being diligently examined tis lawful to make tryal of, if other things help not.

Amulets must not be neglected, amongst which they write thus of one; that Stone found in the Mawe of a Swallow which is red, tied to the right Arm, is good against the Phantastical Illusions of Melancholy, cures the Lunatick and Mad, and makes them lovely and pleasant.

The Course of Living or Diet, must be so ordered, that both laudable hnmors may be generated, and the Malignant distemper of others and evil constitution of the Body may be amended and contemperated, and the strength refreshed, which may be done thus.

An aire and place temperate and pure are conve∣nient; and also the changing of these do very much good, especially if certain places be suspected, or be contrary to them, or do afford some occasion of sadness by which alone Diseases otherwise of long continuance and very grievous, are oftentimes cured.

Nourishing Meat that is by its Nature of a tempe∣rate moisture is good, which ought to be of a good juyce easie of disgestion and somwhat moist, such as is the flesh both of Animals and Fishes, not that which is old, and hard, and kept a long time, or smoak-dryed, or too salt, or very much seasoned with Spices or other hot things, but that which is young, fresh, and simply boyled or roast, amongst which the flesh of a young Hauk and Night-Owl being eaten, it is thought to be of force by a propriety, as on the contrary the flesh of Goats, wild Beasts, Hares, are thought to be hurtful for

Page 44

the causes foremention'd; Milk, good Chees, not too much salted, nor rotten, Butter, common Oyl, and Oyl of Almonds may be granted to those that are ac∣customed to them.

Eggs also are convenient unless they do corrupt, as it most easily comes to pass in cholerick Stomachs, Bread made of pure flower, not tainted with the faults of grain, whence by reason of Darnel many have been brought to a Stupidity or Madness, Levend a little, sal∣ted and rightly baked, is good: and of Grains and Pulse, Barley and all kinds of Pears, so boyled and prepared that they may easily be disgested, and do not puff up, but Lentils and Beans are disallowed because they are thought to beget a Melancholy juyce. Of Fruits Apples especially are convenient as Appropriate all manner of waies, and other fleeting Fruits, and those which are kept hanged up or dryed, as Prunes, Raisons, Cherries and the like, and of harder things Fresh Nuts, and Almonds; of Plants those that are temperate are allowed, as Spinage, Lettice, Endive, Beets, both Buglesses are extold in the first place as appropriate, onely Cole∣worts is condemned, because it is beleeved to produce Melancholy; the which notwithstanding I judgeing by its tast, do think if it be rightly prepared that it doth ra∣ther cause good Blood then other Plants, seeing it is tender and sweet.

There must be special care had of the Drink, and we must allow somwhat to custom, in those that drink Wa∣ter or Wine, seeing Weak-wine can no waies hurt, nor Strong if it be diluted and moderately taken, but seeing it makes merry it doth rather profit them, but if that we see that they become more sad or more fierce by the use of it, we must temper it yet more, or wholly with∣draw it; the same judgment must be of drink: and al∣so the drinking of Whey is very much commended in these diseases, because it is laxative, as also Almond milk, which can no waies so much assail the Head as some have thought.

Sleep is very much commended, not so much be∣cause it moistens, as they would have it, but because it refresheth the body and mind, and therefore if it do not invite them, it must be procured by giving Soporife∣rous things or application of Externals as shall be ex∣plained.

The Inordinate motions espacially of Mad Folks must be quelled with the same Soporiferous things, and they must be restrained with Chidings, Blows, Bonds, Guards, Prisons, for this also as experience teacheth, makes for the Cure of Mad Folks, whom Empericks beat with Rods and Scourges.

We must procure that natural Excretions be done decently, and if Nuns or Virgins do rage with a turgid matter by reason of the retention of their Seed, if they marry they are cured.

Affections of the mind in the first place must be re∣moved from them by Arguments especially when they proceed from no manifest cause, as hath been said in the preturbation of Mind; and if they pretend false causes, as one the Greatness of his Nose, or another Plenty of of Setpents in his body, that by satisfying of them this Opinion conceaved may be taken away, they must in∣geniously be deceived and made believe that these are cut off or purged away, by shewing some such like thing privately conveighed, or by some other art: they must be recreated also with pleasant things which must be offered to their Senses, and with those things which we see them chiefly delighted with, with which notwith∣standing for the most part they are not moved; or if they be altogether made they no waies understanding nor apprehending them, do neglect and sleight them and are the rather more offended by them.

The other Symptoms which betide the Melanchol∣lick and Mad if they be too urgent they must be cor∣rected as shall be explained in their particular chapters, amongst which Watchings also are corrected with those things which we have said must be applied to the Head and by Lotions of the Feet, and if they be very troublesome by giving things that cause rest exprest in Watchings, and every where in this Book, a Pain of the Stomach, Belly, Womb, a distention of the Hypo∣chondries are corrected by Unctions, Fomentations of the Belly, and other things as shal be taught in their places, and if any thing be given by the mouth upon that account, must alwaies mix with them, those things which do resist melancholly.

As if in plenty of Winds and bad digestion such a pouder be prescribed to be used after meat. Take of the pouder Diacydonides sine speciebus two drams, Anise seeds three drams, Coriander prepared two drams, Cinnamon three drams, Squinanth half a dram, Indian Leaf, Marjo∣ram of each one scruple; flowers of Roses, Bugloss each half a dram; Pearl one dram, make a pouder, add Sugar the weight of them all.

A Hot Distemper of the Brain if it cause a Raving and it be a true Phrensie which ariseth from an In∣flammation and its membranes, * 1.34 and presently invades with a Feaver it is a most dangerous and most a∣cute Disease, which somtimes is ter∣minated on the third day; but if they be less fierce, and Rave with Laughter, these things afford us great hopes of recovery; but if it be a bastard Phrensie and the brain be not yet inflamed, but is only heated by a hu∣mor or vapor, as it commonly comes to pass, and it follow a hot Disease, chiefly a Feaver, we must foretel according to the condition of the Disease; for if this be in the fits of Intermitting Feavers either in the be∣ginning or state, as this is wont to be common with Children the Fever remits again together with the Fit; but if this happen in continual Feavers about the state, it can in no wise be free from danger, the brain con∣senting then with the heart that is opprest, where yet if nature overcome the Disease, the Feaver declining, the Raving also ceaseth; also in Pestilential Feavers ac∣cording to the nature of the Disease which is Curable or Killing, the Raving becomes Deadly or no waies such yet it denotes no good if it supervene, and then if the pulse also remit, and spots break forth, Death is at hand; in the Worms of Children also it is judged ac∣cording to the nature of the Feaver and oftentimes foretels Convulsions to come upon it, otherwise with∣out any hurt 'tis taken away with the Feaver.

The intention of Curing in a true Phrensie is this, that first of all with things evacuating we revell and de∣rive from the Head, the bloody humor heating or in∣flaming the Brain, and that chiefly by taking away of Blood and also by Medicines that loosen the Belly, next that by things altering used inwardly and out∣wardly, and by a course of diet we correct the heat chiefly in the Head, also in the Liver, Heart, which also as the whol body have grown hot by reason of the Feaver and towards the end discuss the remaining mat∣ter, in the interim also having respect unto the Symp∣toms, if there be any besides these; the which also are administred in a bastard Phrensie but guided by the na∣ture of the Disease accompanying, from whence it pro∣ceeds, in which also let it be your intention to hinder by this means the ascent of Vapors, and to revell those already carried up.

Drawing of Blood for Revulsion sake ought to be

Page 45

suddenly done in a true Phrensie, & that largely or often repeared in a Vein of the Arme most apparent, especial∣ry the Shoulder Vein. But the Vein must not be open∣led with too large an orifice as the French are wont to cut with their Lancets; lest whiles they are nnruly the flux of Blood cannot wel be stopt. In a bastard Phrensie likewise if we see a great afflux of humors carried to the Head, by the greatness of the Raving and the Veins of the Eyes swelling, unless by reason of the Feaver be∣cause it is in its state, or because lasting long, or by its malignity it hath overthrown the strength, we be com∣peld to forbear it, and nothing else hinder. A vein also must be opened, although it hath been alreaddy open'd in respect of the Feaver.

Also for Derivation in a Phrensie alwaies, and som∣times in a bastard Phrensie, if the Raving be vehement whence we suspect the vehement heat doth raise an af∣flux of humors, even at that time when we are forbid to open some general vein, somtimes being forced, we ought to open a particular one, by which there may not be so great an effusion of Blood, although it be in the state, for fear lest the false Phrensie should be chan∣ged into a true one: of which kind chiefly is the Vein under the Tongue, which being opened doth often∣times very much help in Ravings: upon which ac∣count it is convenient also to open a Vein in the Fore∣head, when great necessity urgeth, and we are not com∣peld to dilate it, by girting the Neck with a Swath, by which the blood is too much forced upwards; and to open the Veins of the Nostrils with Bristles or other rough things by pricking and rubbing them; or to suck out the Blood applying Leeches behind the Ears, to the Forehead, Nostrils, Fundament.

Scarification also doth good with Cupping-Glasses applied for Revulsion in both Species of Raving; and when it is not fit to open a Vein in a Bastard Phrensie, then also instead of that it shall be applied for revulsion sake to the Shoulder-blades, Shoulders, Arms; which I am wont to do with good success in∣stead of Derivation on the sides of the Neck about the jugular Veins, others also approve of it done on the grisly part of the Ears; for which Scarification if they will not endure it, Cupping-Glasses only may be used.

We ought also by Frictions of the extream parts to revel, and by making Ligatures also in those places, to restrain the too much motion to the upper parts, the which also may be performed by Lotions of the Feet which we shall by and by prescribe, for the causing of sleep.

If they admit not of Clysters they must be cast in by force, and that they may keep them, their Fundament must be stopt with a Cloth, for they revel much by stimulating, and correct the heat of the Body by alte∣ring, and evacuating the Cholerick Excrements, upon which account, both by reason of the Raving, and the Feavers accompanying it, they are convenient in both Species of a Phrensie: the which ought to be cast in before bleeding, and afterwards must oftentimes be repeated, many of which have been prescribed in Feavers.

For example sake we propose these only: Take of Cassia newly drawn six drams, Red or course Sugar one ounce, Oyl of Violets three ounces, juyce of Beets or Mercury one ounce, Salt one dram, with the Decoction of the four Emollient herbs, Make a Clyster.

A more Compound one is made thus: Take of the Herb Mallows, Marsh-mallows with the Roorts, Pellitory of the Wall, Beets, Mercury, Lettice, Violets of each one handful. Whol Barley one pugil, Guord seeds half an ounce, Prunes six: Make a Decoction. In a fit quantity dissolve Honey of Violets, Red Sugar, of each one ounce. Catholicon, Cassia, of each half an ounce; juyce of Beets or Mercury, of each one ounce; Oyl of violets three ounces, a little Salt; Make a Clyster. Laxatives and somwhat Stimulating may be given, especially in those that are bound to loosen the Belly, chiefly when they will not admit of Clysters or do not keep them. But we must have a care of purgers that heat the Body, in which thing Empiricks knowing nothing else but to purge, are oftentimes grievously faulty.

Therefore a day after a Vein hath been open'd such a solutive Medicine may be given: Take of the simple Syrup of Roses solutive two ounces, water of Violets, Lettice, Bugloss as much as is sufficient, to dilute it, and give it.

Or this, Take of the juce of Roses one ounce and an half, Sugar six drams, dissolved in Rose water; Boyl it gently, strain it and give it.

Otherwise after this manner: Take of Syrup of Roses solutive, Violets, of each one ounce, with Mesues Decocti∣on of Fruits, give it.

If at any time we must pass to stronger Medicines, it may be done thus: Take of Rhubarb four scruples, in∣fuse it in Water of Roses and Violets, strain it, add Syrup of Roses solutive one ounce or more, give it.

Or, Take of Sena (whose juyce is not unlike the juyce of Rhubarb) two drams or three, Polypody half an ounce, somwhat sharp Prunes six: Boyl them, to the strained Liquor add, Syrup of Roses solutive, Violets, of each half an ounce: Make a Potion.

Things altering are given both by reason of the Fea∣ver accompanying, and because of the hot distemper of the head, in a form chiefly acceptable to them, espe∣cially of drink, because they are very thirsty, for they do not willingly take things Medicinal, with which also we ought to prepare the Cholerick Humor, if there be any, before we purge it, you meet with vari∣ous compositions of these in Feavers therefore here only a few examples are proposed.

In their Broths are boyled, Sorrel, Lettice, Bugloss, and their Waters are mixed with them, as also the juyce of Citron and Rose Vinegar.

Instead of Beer, we must mix with the boyled water which he drinks, Syrup of Currans, Pomegranates, Lem∣mons, Wine of Pomegranates or other Acid juyces.

Or you may give by course, Juleps in a fit quan∣tity by themselves, or mixt with Beer after this manner: Take of Syrup or Wine of Pomegranates, of Barberries, of each two ounces, Violets one ounce, of Poppy (by reason of watchings) half an ounce, water of Lettice, Sorrel, Roses, Bugloss, of each four times the quantity, let him drink it. In place of Syrups, Juyces may be used.

A Conserve made for the same use to be often taken, As, Take of the Conserve of the four Cordial flowers of each one ounce; Coleworts, Lettice, flesh of Citrons condite of each six drams; seeds of Sorrel, Endive, Purslane, of each half a dram; Pouderof Diamargaritum frigidum one scruple, Syrup of Pomegranates or Curians: Make an Elect∣uary.

Things cold and somwhat astringent must be applied to the Head at the beginning presently, whiles the Humor flows, or Vapors ascend, the which do repel them

Oxyrrhodines are fit for this use, prepared thus: Take of water of Roses, Plantane, of each two ounces; Oyl of Roses two ounces, Vinegar of Roses one ounce. Mix them.

Page 46

Or thus, Take of the Oyl of Roses Omphacine one ounce and an half, Unguentum Populeum, Vinegar, of each half an ounce, the white of an Egg, beat them together and ap∣ply them to the Forehead.

But a repelling Decoction may be made thus, Take of the Leaves of Sallow, Lettice, Plantane, of each one hand∣ful; Flowers of Roses two pugils, Violets one pugil, seeds of Plantane, Myrtle, of each two drams; boyl them in iron'd water.

Afterwards Coolers and Moistners are applied, with which we mix things causing rest

In this form, Take of the juyces of Lettice, Night∣shade, of each two ounces; Plantane one ounce, let cloaths dipt in them be applied.

In Summet time we prepare them of Waters, Take of the waters of Roses, Nightshade, Lettice, Water-lillies of each two ounces; Plantane one ounce, let cloaths dipt in them be applied.

A Decoction for Irrigation may be made thus, Take of the Leaves of Violets, Lettice, Nightshade, Water∣lilles, Housleek, Purslane of each one handful; flowers of Vi∣olets, Water-lillies, Borrage, of each one pugil; seeds of Let∣tice, Poppy of each two drams; of Henbane one dram; make a Decoction for an Irrigation.

Afterwards let the Head be anointed with the follow∣ing Unguent, Take Oyl of Violets Water-lillies, of each one ounce; of Roses six drams, of Poppy, Mandrake, each half an ounce; Unguentum Populeum one ounce, (we add no Camphire, because it causeth watchings) mix them with a little white Wax, for an Oyntment.

Then we may strew Pouders on the place anointed, after this manner, Take of the flowers of Roses, Violets, Water-lillies, Lettice seed, of each two drams; of white and black Poppy of each one dram; red Saunders, Coriander, of each half a dram: mix them.

When the raving begins to abate, we add certain dis∣cussive things to the forementioned forms, such as have been prescribed in a Melancholly humor, causing Me∣lancholly and Madness, but somwhat more temperate: and then especially we are content with Anointings ad∣ding Oyl in which Mother of Time and Chamomel have been boyled: and afterwards Sinapizing the head as they cal it.

As with the following Pouder which also strengthens the Brain. Take of Coriander seeds two drams, flowers of Roses, Chamomel, Lavender, Rosemary of each one dram; Orrice root half a dram, of all the Saunders one dram; make a Pouder.

Besides these things, when the raving is at the highest, there is a singular and approved Remedy, made of the Flesh and Blood of Animals, being applied to the Crown of the Head whiles they are yet hot, which be∣ing roasted as it were with excessive heat of the Head, when they are laid aside, do seem to send forth a cer∣tain vapor, and I have often observed that they alone almost have helped: which whether they do it by dis∣cussing as some would have it, or by stopping the force of the blood, I wil not here any longer dispute, this I know, as shal be said in the Haemorrhages that these do wonderfully stop the blood flowing out of a wound, but for this use the following things are for the most part made choice.

Certain whol Animals cut through the back, and presently unboweld, as a Lamb, a Puppy-dog, a young Pigeon or Chicken, or the bloudy parts of them, as the Lungs of a Ram Gelt, of a Lamb, or the Livers, or al∣so other fleshy parts, hot from the Creature new killed, as also other things must be applied, or if they be cool∣ed, they must be heated again.

For the hearts sake, strengthening Epithems are ap plied to the region of it, by reason of its double disease, both of a Fever and because of its Weakness, which al∣so may be bound to the Pulses in a cloth, such as have been proposed in Feavers and formerly in Melan∣cholly.

And a more simple one may be made thus. Take of Rose water four ounces, of Violets, Bugloss, of each two ounces; Vinegar half an ounce, of all the Saunders each one dram; Saffron half a scruple, Camphire five grains; mix them.

For the same cause also regard is had to the Liver, and Epithems are applied to that.

The Breast also is anointed with cold relaxing Oyls as Oyls of Violets.

And the Cods are cooled with things working actu∣ally and potentially.

The Thighes and Arms of the whol body are washed for coolness sake, and that they may the easier sleep, with the Decoction of the Plants of the Vine, Violets, Lettice, Poppy and the like.

A Course of diet is to be ordered, not so much to preserve Strength, as to help somwhat by Alteration.

Let the Air incline to cold, but whether they ought to be kept in Darkness or Light, that they may rave the less, some do very much trouble themselves, seeing false apparitions do appear to them, as wel in the light as darkness, but it is better that they be kept in a place somwhat obscure.

Their meat ought to be cooling and moistning, such as is convenient for the Feverish, season'd with herbs and other cool things, as Lettice, Endive and the like, also with the juyce of unripe Grapes, and Vinegar, and other cold juyces, and seeing these Delirous know not what they do, and oftentimes do not devour their meat only, but also other abominable things, we must not humor them, but when the Diet ought to be Slender we must withdraw it, and they must be fed with Barley, Prunes, and other lighter things.

Let their Drink whiles they rage be Water, taken of it self, or first prepared with boyling, to which we may mix Syrups, as was said before, for preparation and alteration sake.

Those things which concern sleep, motion, and the af∣fects of the mind, shall be explained now in the Symp∣toms.

For the symptoms which happens besides Raving are others also supervenient to them, both by reason of the disease of the head and of the Fever accompanying, to which we ought to have respect.

Watchings by reason of the excessive heat of the brain, are common and hurtful to them, which in general are corrected with the same Remedies that resist the disease, as hath been said, seeing they cool and moisten, especi∣ally the external ones, to which upon that account are added things soporiferous, and privately for their sake so∣poriferous medicines are given mix with Cordials as shal be said in its place.

Inordinate motions do so disturb them by reason of their depraved imagination that they endeavor by all force to rise out of the bed, and to cloath themselves, and if they be not restrained, to make an escape, whence oftentimes being void of reason, they fall from a high place, and kil themselves; which unquietness is likewise amended by things given to cause sleep seeing the mind being at rest the body must needs rest also: and that they may be restrained, which is very hard, seeing mad∣ness makes them strong, they are oftentimes bound in bonds, the which notwithstanding somtimes when they are angry upon that account, and more fierce, we ought to loose them, and give them way a little, yet using

Page 47

great caution that they hurt not themselves nor o∣thers.

A Suppression of the Urin is a Symptom peculiar to them, whenas being so intent upon their imaginations, they feel not the provocation of the Urin, and therefore care not to make it, by the retaining of which the Bladder be∣ing too much filled and distended afterwards voids the water with a great deal of difficulty; the which we must cure, by seasonably admonishing them, and shewing the Cham∣ber-pot and by applying external Remedies, of which we wil treat of in the retention of Urine.

The driness, blackness of the Tongue which denote the highest burning of a Feaver is corrected, as shal be ex∣plained in its place.

Thirst doth very much torment them by reason of their heat, it is corrected by altering things cold and moist, especially given in their Drink, as hath been already said, and shall be said in thirst in general.

Their weakness and overthrow of strength known by the Pulse, seeing their unquietness otherwise stirring them up, doth seem to add strength to them, as hath been said, is repaired by a course of Diet and cordiall medicines, used inwardly and outwardly, as also with them already mentioned.

To undertake to Cure Folly bred in a man from his birth by an evil conformation, * 1.35 seeing it is impossible to fashion other∣wise the parts once formed, were to at∣tempt to wash and make a Blackmore white; as also it is impossible to change any thing, if this happen from a perverse temperament the which notwithstanding is somtimes amended, by the change of age, by Gelding, as hath been said in madness, where also custom may do much, by which it came to pass that Cimon for love of Iphigenia, when he knew his foolish behaviour did displease her, by little and little changing of them, from a Fool became a wise man, as this whether true or fabu∣lous is agreeable to reason.

If madness be sprung from Putrefacti∣on, * 1.36 or a Speck, or Worms as they would have it, by reason of vapors sent from thence to the brain, we can scarcely fit a Cure for these, which are almost hid from us, yet if that Cure which was de∣scribed in madness arising from a melancholly humor be al∣so applied here, it wil be no fault; but if the malady be grievous 'tis incurable.

Notes

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