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.

The Cure.

The Cure varieth as the Disease is divers which pro∣duceth these pricking pains in the Breast. And it is ei∣there an Iuflammation of the Lungs in a true Pleurisie

and peripneumony, or of the Membrane in its pleuri∣sie, or a distension from Wind or tumor in the two kinds of false pleurisies called Flatulent and Flegma∣tick.

The Inflammation of the Lungs both in a Pleurisie and Peripneu∣mony is dangerous, * 1.1 but most in a peripneumony by reason of the nearness of the Heart, both cause Death, either in the fourth or fifth day, or in the fourteenth or twentieth. When it tends to health it passeth the second or third week, and first the pricking ceaseth, then the Fever, and last the Spitting of Matter, but if it continue above the time mentioned, and the Fever ceaseth not, but is lin∣gring, it is to be feared that it wil turn to an Empyema or phthisis.

These following rules wil declare how these Disea∣ses wil end. If from the Lungs inflamed they present∣ly spit mixed matter, it is good, especially if they Cough and expel it easily; if otherwise, it is bad. This if it be blood or matter such as cometh from the part inflamed which is the Lungs, it is allowed. But if from the beginning the blood flows plentifully, for some daies, or cease and return again, it snews great hurt of the Lungs. But the sooner they spit matter white or concocted, and the more easily and plentifully it is voided, the better it is; unless it be sent forth in such abundance (as I have seen in a man that had a perip∣neumony und was ready to die) that it fill a Bason, this is a sign that the Inflammation is great and that a suppuration follows and also Death. Purulent mat∣ter though yellowish is not bad till it be Yellow, that whch is green is worse, and black worst of all, that which is white, slimy, and cleer prolongs the Disease. That Inflammation that comes from pure blood, is more gentle, that which comes from cholerick or im∣pure blood is worse and shorter; but that which comes from flegmatick blood is longer, but not so shatp. And that which follows other long and acute Diseases is harder to be cured. The peripneumony especially or the pleurisie in old people is deadly.

Great difficulcy of Breathing shews the greatness of the Inflammation, or a great collection of the matter; which suddenly flowing to the branches of the rough Artery, causeth mote trouble, and they breath with snorting, and if they do not presently spet and hawk it forth, it strangleth.

Cold of the outward parts, the Face sunk, and the pulse little, foreshew Death as in other Diseases.

If the Fever be strong with Heat, Thirst, and Watch∣ing, the danger is more, if gentle, less.

If there be a Delirium or Doting, which useth not to be in these Diseases, nor from the Fever accompany∣ing them, It is a mortal sign because it useth to come upon the distemper of the Septum or Diaphragma.

Bleeding at the Nose cannot be had in the beginning, both in respect of the Fever and also for Revulsion. But towards the end it weakneth, especially if much.

Plentiful voiding of Urin and Sweat, if they come seasonably, cures the Fever: and if they piss matter, they suppose the matter come from the Lungs, and the Diseases to be sent out of the way. But if matter can be carried from the Lungs by the hollow Vein which is more manifest rather than by the other obscure veins in the Breast which joyn to the Emulgent (which some men so diligently seek for, and bragg that they have found out) then in other Diseases there may be such a passage: but this is very rare, because in those that have been extreamly phthisical and empyematous no such thing hath been seen.

A Diarrhaea presageth Death, for, though some have thought otherwise, yet little of the cause of the Disease can be purged by stool. But if the Diarrhaea come at the first from other causes, and stay not long it may be harmless, especially if it take away any filth which may increase the Fever. And I have often seen Pleu∣risies after I have given Oyl of sweet Almonds with pouder of a Bores tooth, to go away with a plentiful Diarrhaea.

The Method of Cure for both is, * 1.2 to divert the Blood that flows to this noble part, & so to prepare that which is flown to the Lungs and inflames them, that it may be coughed and spet forth, because, except Nature do it of her self, it is in vain to purge it by Urin or Stool. Also still abate the pain in the Pleurisie which is very pricking, and in both cases inlarge the Breast, and hold up the strength, alwaies having an eye to to the Fever, as we shewed in Fevers; therefore abstain from hot things, and use temperate things that incline rather to cold; all which are done as followeth.

The Defluxion of Blood to the part is diverted best by Blood-letting, and the heat of the Fever abated, therefore neglect it not, though the Patient be very young, for we observe that in other cases and bleedings by cuts and falls they can loose much blood without danger; and in this Disease they wil find much ease by it: nor let it be omitted in women with Child, or old People: nor when the Disease comes from impure and cholerick blood, nor when the pain goes down to the Hypochondria. But for these causes do it mode∣rately rather than omit it. Blood-letting must be sud∣denly while the matter is flowing, the first day, at what time of day or night soever it be: or if it hath been neglected do it the next or the third day, taking much at a time, or six ounces at a time, often, if the first blee∣ding do not abate the Disease, bleed then thrice a day, or two or three daies together: after the third or fourth day, except you fear the increase of the Discase, or a Relapse from a new Flux of Blood (for which cause after many daies if there be strength you may bleed again) you must not bleed rashly.

You must open a Vein in the Arm (because the Veins are larger and neerer the part) either the middle Vein or that which most appeareth which is al∣waies best. And what vein soever in the Arm is ope∣ned whether it be on the right or left side the blood comes from the hollow Vein, from whose upper part above the heart the veins of the Arm come; and ther∣fore by consequence blood is drawn from the right side of the Heart into which the hollow Vein is joyned be∣fore it ascendeth: and so also blood is drawn from the Lungs by the veiny Artery, by which the blood flows from the right side of the Heart to the Lungs. Except, because the hollow vein is more on the right side, and sends blood into the right side of the Heart, and only sends out the vein without equal, or not paired to the right side only, you desire to open the Vein in the right Arm for a directer way of bleeding. which some think to be necessary in a Peripneumony and Pleurisie. Yet in a Pleurisie it is thought better to open a vein on that side that is pained, than on the contrary side (as the Arabians do who first open the contrary Arm for Re∣vulsion and then for Derivation) not only from the right order and direct flowing of the Vessels on that side, because the same may be good in a Pleurisie as wel as a Peripneumony, the Lungs being (as I shewed) affected in both: but because in a Pleurisie, the veins on that side where the pain is are more swollen with

blood. Therefore if the pain be on the right side, open the Vein in the right Arm if on the left, open the vein in the left Arm by reason of the Defluxion of blood caused through pain. And if the Vein in the Arm ap∣pear not, open that in the Hand on the same side: by which if the blood come freely there will be a greater Revulsion, and if not, a less. Also it is good to bleed in the Foot, or by the Fingers, after bleeding in the Arm, especially in Women who have this disease from stopping of the terms.

Cupping-glasses to the Shoulders, Emunctuaries, and Groyns make Revulsion, and the more if there be Scarification: these help the other bleeding, or supply when the other cannot be.

Also Frictions and Ligatures of the outward parts cause Diversion: or a Decoction to wash and rub the Hands and Feet, but it must be such as doth not heat.

Some adventure to use a Caustick to the sids, but it is neither safe nor profitable, nor Cupping-glalsses to the Breast.

Clysters are given to loosen the Belly before bleed∣ing, if it be bound, they are to be cooling and gentle, such as are mentioned in Fevers, and other internal In∣flammations and Quninsie. And some advise clensing Clysters at the end of the Disease if the matter tend from the Breast to the Guts, lest it should hurt them, which they think to be possible.

Loosners are better than purgers, for it is not conve∣nient in Inflammations of the Breast to give purgers: both because the matter cannot be purged by stool from thence, as also because they heat the body, and cause a Diarrhaea which useth easily to come with much hurt to the patient. These Laxatives must be good for the Breast, whereof Manna is the chief.

Next syrup of Violets three ounces, or Cassia, or simple Diaprunes two ounces, alone or with pectoral Decoction.

Or thus. Take sweet prunes, Raisons stoned, each an ounce; Violets a pugil, boyl and dissolve Cassia half an ounce, Manna an ounce: make a potion.

After the seventh day the Ancients used stronger pur∣ges, the humor being first prepared: but these are best in a false pleurisie as I shewed; or if the true pleurisie ceaseth, they are good against accidents that remain, o∣therwise they hurt more.

We give to drink things that cause easie Coughing and Spitting, because the Humor being fastned to the Lungs and not to the Membranes, girding them can∣cannot be sent a better way. This is done by Leni∣tives to the parts, and such as first thicken the Matter to stop the Flux of Blood if it be thin, and to make it more fit to be spit forth, and then by Concocters, Clensers and Cutters, if it be too thick and slimy. Or by things to ripen and cause matter to be spet forth lest it lying long there, the Lungs be corrupted by it, and a phthisis caused. Or if Nature endeavors to throw it out by stool or Urin (which is rare, and perhaps a meer Fansie) by such things as help Nature therein. These are done as followeth.

Lohochs to be swallowed by degrees, and so com∣municate their Vertue better to the Lungs are the best.

As the usual tablets of Diatragacanth frigid and Di∣a penidies without the species, held in the Mouth.

Or a Lohoch made of them with syrup of Jujubes or Violets to be licked.

Or this: Take the species of Diatragacanth frigid two drams, Penidies a dram, with the Syrup aforsaid make a Lohoch, adding half an ounce of the Diacodium if the Cough be great. others add Conesrve of Violets, but it is not so good to be licked.

Or this: Take Penidies an ounce, Pinenuts and sweet Almonds blancht, each two drams; the great cold seeds and white Poppy seed, each a dram; Starch half an ounce; juyce of Liquorish a dram, Gum Traganth and Arabick, each a dram; infused in Violet water while they swell, pulp of Raisons half an ounce, mix them for a Lohoch with syrup of Poppies, or a Diacodium half an ounce, and Mallow and Cotton seeds a dram.

In the progress of the Disease when the Fever de∣clineth, give tablets of Diaireos simple, Diapenids without the species, Lohoch of Pine.

Or thus: Take Lohoch de pino half an ounce, species of Diatragacanth a dram, species of Diaireos half a dram, pe∣nidies half an ounce, with syrup of Maidenhair and Liquo∣rish make a Lohoch.

Or thus: Take Sugar-candy, penidies, each half an ounce; pine-nuts two drams, of great cold seeds, each a dram; Orris roots two scruples, Gum traganth infused in water of Maidenhair and mucilage of Quince seed half a dram, pulp of Figs or Dates, each half an ounce; juyce of Liquorish a dram, or roots of Briony and Nettle seed, each half a dram; with syrup of Hysop, make a Lohoch.

We use also stronger Expectoratives and cutting Me∣dicines when they spet matter, especially if it be crude and slymy, and when the Fever is gone, and yet matter is voided. As Lohoch of Coleworts, of Coltssoot, Hore∣hound, Lochsanum, and other other medicines used in o∣ther diseases of the Lungs from Flegm and Matter.

Lohochs are made of fat things thus, to open the Breast, to mollifie and help spetting, as of Butter, Su∣gar, or Sugar candy, or Sugar of Violets, used like a Lohoch, the German May Butter called Mehenmuf

The new drawn Oyl of sweet Almonds or Lineseed are good with Sugar to be licked and taken by degrees, or to be drunk in Broath, or any Decoction proper to allay the pains of the pleurisie to which some add juyce of Marshmallows. Oyl of Nuts also in the progress of the Disease concocts the matter and makes it fit to be expelled.

Of which make this Lohoch. Take Oyl of sweet Al∣monds or Line seeds, or both Oxymel simple of Squils (if the matter be tough) each hvlf an ounce; with Sugar candy make a Lohoch.

Also Decoctions though they stay not long in the passage are good in respect of the Fever and Inflam∣mation; give a draught once or twice a day, thus.

If you wil thicken and lenifie use Barley water which allaies thirst, and nourisheth if you increase the quantity of Barley. If you wil clense more make it of whole Bar∣ley, with Raisons, Liquorish, and other sweet things as Sugar or syrup of Violets, Jujubes, and Maiden∣hair.

At first if you wil thicken and expectorate. Take roots of Marshmallows an ounce, Violets and Bugloss flowers, each a pugil; Jujubes and Sebestens, each six pair: Barley half a pugil, the four great cold seeds, each two drams: make a Decoction to a pint, sweeten it with syrups or Sugar∣penidies.

The Decoction of Corn-poppy made with Barley-water or Jujubes adding Sugar is good at first to stop a Defluxion and Inflammation: give three ounces at a time often, after boyl them in Scabious and Burnet∣water to Concoct, or use the water of poppy instead of the Decoction, or give the dried flowers in pouder with Broath or Violet-water, or other Liquor. Nei∣ther ought we fear its coldness, because the force it hath to attenuate and digest, which Galen imputes to the sharpness doth shew otherwise, as in the other Narco∣ticks which we shewed in other places are not cold.

When we wil clense more, give Sugar and Water

boyled twenty parts water and half a part Sugar, and if you clense more yet, use more Sugar and a little Cin∣namon.

Another to clense and lenifie. Take Liquorish an ounce and an half, Violets, Bugloss flowers, each a pugil; Figs six pair, Raisons ten pair, Jujubes six pair, sweet prunes five, Barley half a pugil, Gourd and Melon seeds, each two drams: boyl them, add Sugar or Syrups.

When we wil concoct and prepare thick matter at the end, give boyled Honey with Wine, it is good in old people, or when the Disease is not very hot. Or Honey and Water, which may be made as strong and hot as Sack.

Also the Decoction of Carduus or Leucacanth, or white-thorn roots, or Anthemis flowers.

Another to concoct and prepare. Take Liquorish an ounce, Elicampane root two drams, Maidenhair a hand∣ful, Hysop and Goats Organ (especially in a pleurisie) each half a handful; Violets, Bugloss flowers, each a hand∣ful; flowers of Anthemis half a handful, Raisons twelve pair, Figs ten, Dates five, Melon or Gourd seeds three drams, Cotton seeds, Mallow and Foenugreek seed, each two drams; Anise seeds a dram: boyl them, and add Sugar, Honey or Syrups.

Syrups to thicken are of Violets and Jujubes, to clense, of Liquorish, and to concoct withall, of Mai∣denhair and Oxymel if the matter be tough, two oun∣ces at a time may be given in a Decoction or Water of Violets, Bugloss, Maidenhair, Scabious, Hysop, like Juleps, or give julep of Violets, or the Syrups alone to be licked.

Also Spinage, Carduus, or Milk-thistle water, or of Anthemis flowers, or wild Lentils in a peripneu∣mony.

Or water of ground Ivy four ounces in a pleurisie four times a day, it is good to purge the breast from matter, and to desend from Peripneumony or Phthi∣sis.

Or the following potions. Take Bores tusk or jaw of a Pike, Crabs Eyes, Buls pizle, in pouder, a dram or a dram and an half, with Broath or Wine, or Carduus water, or Vio∣let or Barley water, these are better known by good expe∣rience than by reason.

The tusk of a Bore poudered and given with Oyl of sweet Almonds or Line seed is an excellent medicine in pleurisie or Quinzy.

Or Lapis prunellae given with Purslane water, or of Bramble berries, or of Sorrel, with Coolers in a good quantity often, quickly makes men in pleurisies to spit easily.

The Vulgar give the water wherein a Butchers Knife hath been laid some hours to cure the Pleu∣risie.

The roots of Daffodil or flowers, or of Dog-stones, Dockes, Goulden-hair, Lungwort, In Peripneumony, and seeds of wild Parsnepps and Carduus, pouder of Almonds or Nutshells, each, a dram, or a dram and an half, with the Liquors mentioned: are also good.

Also roots of Centaury, the great Birthwort, and Costus agallochus, Aethiopis, and three leaved Daffadill leavs and seeds, Myrrh, Bdellium, Asla foetida, are comended by Diascorides with wine and water. But he saith not in what kind of Pleurisie true or false.

It is known by experience, that these following are good and presently abate, or take away the pain in a pleurisie: Take a scruple of Bores Tusk, or a dram, with two or three or four onnces of Oyl of sweet Almonds, or with Lineseed Oyl, as in a Quinsie.

Another experiment: Take Nut-shels, red Corral, each a dram, make a pouder, give it with white Wine.

This is highly approved, Take Roots of long Birth∣wort, Piony, Bay-berries, each halfe a dram; Stones of Medlars, a dram; Ivory shavings, Myrrh, each dalf a dram; make a pouder, give it with Tamarisck water or Wine.

Yarrow also bruised and given in Vinegar.

Also Turpentine any wayes taken alone, or with the Yoalk of an Egge, and Violet water, or the like, or in pills with Sugar, and pouder of Liquorish.

They say that pills made of melted Pitch open an Imposthume, and also Watercresses and Mustard seed.

The Chymists give flower of Brimstone alone, or with Salt peter, and Salt of polypody, or St Iohns-wore with Wine.

Instead of ordinaty Beer and Wine and Water to quench Thirst, give Barley water, a little warmed as all Drink must be least Spitting be hindred, and the Breast hurt. We allow Wine to refresh the weak, but not afore the seventh day, a little and mixed with Bar∣ley water, and Sugar to cleanse.

Give a thin Diet for two or four dayes, and such as helps expectoration as Cream of Barley, and of Al∣monds, thicker or thinner as you please; or sweet prunes or Raisons stewed with Sugar.

After use a fuller Diet, especially after the seventh day, or sooner if strength fail, as boyled bread, or Marshpane, or that of Almonds or pine nuts, and good Broaths and Jellies, as in the Hectick Feavor.

Or this. Take the Brawn of an old Cock or Hen, boyl it adding Violet or Bugloss water, or Scabious water, each two ounces; give the Broath with fresh Butter, and a little Salt, and it is stronger if you bruise the Flesh and and strain it with the Broath.

Or add to that Decoction three ounces of Crums of Bread, and to a pint of the Broath add Conserve of Violets, Bugloss, Maidenhair, to each an ounce, species of Diatragacanth frigid and Diaponides, each a dram; Dia∣margariton frigid, half a dram; of the four great could seeds Cotton and Mallow seeds, each a dram; penidies two ounces, distil a Liquor, it wil restore.

To nourish more; Take a Capon prepared, and a peice of Veal, boyl them to a Jelly, give it alone, or with the former Liquoris. or give the juyce of a roasted Capon strained.

Also give according to Mathiolus, Snails in Barley water.

Also take of the top of a sweet Apple and hollow it, and fil it with Olibanum poudered, lay on the head again to cover it, and tye it together and roast it, give it to be eaten, this is thought good to cure and prevent a Pleurisie.

Or give an Apple roasted the same way, with Juyce of Liquorish, Sugar, and Starch.

Some give Diureticks at the end of the Disease, when Nature dischargeth it by Urine to help her.

Also the Decoction of Fennel, Sparagus, Knee∣holm, Liquorish, red pease, Maidenhair, and the great cold seeeds. Such as we shewed in Fevers when we desire to carry away the matter by Urin.

Somtimes we give things to purge when Nature is willing that way to discharge the matter (which is rare) as we said of Clysters which open and clense.

Also it is good to apply things outwardly to the Breast, whether the pain be great as in a pleurisie, or little as in a peripneumony (although the Disease be not in the Breast, but in the Lungs properly) because the strength of these Remedies may reach thither.

Notwitstanding we must not at the beginning, give hot things to try if the Pleurisie be true or false, for they wil inflame and make it worse, for a true Pleurisie is discerned from a false by other waies which are more safe. Nor must we use all those things which are com∣mended against Inflammations which they thought was in the girding Membrane, not in the Lungs, or e∣specially against the Imposthume which they thought was there also, and therefore they apply things out∣wardly to suppurate and open: except the Inflamma∣tion of the girding Membrane follow the Inflammati∣on of the Lungs, or come of it self without them as we shal shew in the pleurisie of the Membrane. But we must apply outwardly to the part pained, things that mitigate it, and dilate or open the Breast that they may spit more freely, and such as digest the matter in the Lungs. This is done by Anodynes that are temperate, and but very little hot and loosning: or if there be no pain, as in a peripneumony, you may use cooling things also against the Inflammation, and after such as ripen and dissolve it. All these must be applied actu∣ally hot.

A Fomentation is chiefly good when there is pain, and if it be only of warm water in a bladder, it wil mi∣tigate and relax.

But more if these following be boyled therein: As, Take Mallows and Marsh-mallows with the roots, Pellitory of the Wall, each a handful; Violets, Chamaemel, Melilot flowers, each a pugil; Lineseed an ounce, Bran a pugil, Figs ten pair, Annise seeds two drams, boyl them for a Fomen∣tation.

You may add Branck-ursine and Colewort, each a hand∣ful; Foenugreek seed half an ounce, Mallow seed two drams, and in the progress if heat be not violent white Lilly roots an ounce and an half, and a little Wine to make it pierce. When the pain is violent the Leaves, Heads, or Seeds of Poppies allay it.

Also a Bag of Bran boyled, strained, and applied a∣bateth the pain. To which you may add the things a∣forementioned.

Also there are Anodynes and ripening Cataplasms made of the residence of the Decoction mentioned bea∣ten with Barley meal, with Hogs grease and fresh Butter, each an ounce; Oyl of Violets two ounces, Oyl of sweet Almonds, Chamaemel or Dill each an ounce.

Or: Take Barley meal four ounces, Line seed and Foe∣nugreek, each two ounces; Ashes of green Coleworts two drams, Sagapen a dram, with Hogs and Goose grease, make a Cataplasm.

Pellitory of the wall also beaten and fried with Oyl or Butter is excellent.

Or Snails boyled and bruised.

An Epithem of lenifying and cooling things may be applied to the breast, but hot, though there be no pain as in peripneumony.

Thus: Take a Decoction of Barley a pugil, Gourd and Lineseed, each an ounce; Violets a pugil, or you may use any Epithem mentioned in the Hectick.

In the beginning anoynt the side with Coolers and Loosners: As, Take Oyl of Violets and sweet Almonds, each an ounce; fresh Butter half an ounce, Mucilage of Quince or Line seeds six drams, with a little Wax.

You may add Oyl of Gourd and Line seed.

When the pain is great in a pleurisie. Take Oyl of sweet Almonds, Chamaemel, Melilot or Dill each an ounce; Duck or Goose, Hens or Capons grease, ca••h half an ounce; mueilage of Foenugreek and Lineseed, each six drams; Gal∣banum, Turpentine, each a dram; Saffron a scruple, with Wax make a Liniment.

The fat Caule of a Beasts Belly laid hot to the side taketh away pain.

Also Unguents and Cataplasms as the Resumptive Oyntment, made of Fats, the Pectoral that of Marsh∣mallows, or that of Zacharies son, or of Mesue.

It is good after anoynting to apply a Colewort leaf warm or anoynted.

Or to sprinkle the Ashes of burnt Coleworts upon the part anoynted.

It is counted also a singular Remedy against a Pleu∣risie, to anoynt with Oyntment of Marsh-mallows, and to sprinkle pouder of Cumminseeds thereupon, or of Orris roots.

Let the patient ly upon the side pained, for so the pain wil be less, with his Head and Breast a little high, that he may breaths omewhat easier: And let him be∣ware of all violent motions of Mind or Body.

For other Symptomes if there be watching, or want of Sleep, give things proper for Disease also, as Al∣mond Milk, with Emulsions of cold seeds and Saffron, ormixing Syrup of Poppyes, or the like, as we shewed in Watching.

If there be a Diarrhaea, because it is dangerous you must use Syrup of Myrtles, with other Medicines, be∣cause it both expectorateth, and stoppeth a Loosness, And anoynt the Belly and Reins, with binders, as we shewed in too much going to stool.

If there be an Inflammation in the girding Tunicle, * 1.3 (which then extends it self to the in∣ward Muscles of the Breast, we distinguish it from the true Pleurisie, mentioned by the name of a Pleurisie of the gird∣ing Tunicle) and if it be with the Lungs also inflam∣ed: Then we use the same way of Cure, as of a true pleurisie, being they are both together, and by reason of this Inflammation joyned, we use such Topical ex∣ternal medicines as are proper to the Inflammation, when alone.

But if the side be only inwardly inflamed and not the Lungs, * 1.4 then we use revellers, and derivers, by bleeding, cupping, and scarrifying, and the like, as in a true Pleurisie, and Clysters, and Laxatives.

For the things given to expectorate in the Inslam∣mation of the Lungs, when the Inslammation is in the girding Membrane, cannot reach the part affected, nor can the matter from thence come to the Mouth, to be spet forth as I shewed; therefore they will do more hurt then good by causing a Cough, and moving the pained Side, therefore let no things be given to cause Spitting, except other Accidents happen, but such things as help in a true Pleurisie, by a propriety, and such as are mentioned there against Thirst, and for Nourishment.

But the Topicks which we declared in a true pleu∣risie, are good here, because they asswage pain, loos∣en the breast, and concoct the Matter there fast∣ned, and the rather because being applyed outward∣ly to the pained side, they come near the part, and sooner and more directly spend their Virtue, then they can to the Lungs; therefore Fomentations, Cataplasms, Oyntments, and plasters, there menti∣oned may be applyed here, especially because by re∣laxing they draw the Matter outward, as I shewed in a Quinzy, and if the Inflammation be not great, and without a Tumor, they discusse and dissolve it.

And as they are used in a Quinsie, to draw Matter, from the streightness of the Jaws, so here to draw it from the breast, least it imposthumate there, & leave af∣ter

it is broken, an Empyema behind it. Therefore in both cases, we abstain from the beginning from all repellers, not because these hinder breathing, by astringing or binding the breast, as the Vulgar Opi∣nion, which cannot be great, and if there were an Inflammation only outward, this could not hinder the use of them: but for the Cause mentioned that we may draw out the Matter, rather then strike it in by Repellers. Also we somtimes apply Cupping-Glasses to the breast, and other things that draw from within deeply, as Pitch malaxed with hot Oyl, with Rosin and a little Brimstone, or with black Soap dissolved with Oyls, these both resolve and concoct the matter attracted, and presently after we use Relaxers or Loos∣ners. If the Inflammation will not cease by so do∣ing, about the end of the Disease, we apply hot∣ter Remedies to discuss the matter, that it suppurate not. Or if this cannot be done thereby but it doth Imposthumate, we apply to the breast outwardly things that ripen it, and that it may open rather out∣wardly than inwardly, as a tumor enlarged useth to do, otherwise than we do in a true Pleurisie.

In the progress of an internal Inflammation of the breast after we have used the Anodynes and Loosners mentioned in a pleurisie, and when the pain begins to cease, but is not quite gone, we use these following to draw out and discuss the Reliques of the Inflam∣mation.

We foment the pained side thus: Take Lilly roots four ounces, Mallows, Orris roots green, two ounces, Mallows, Horehound, Calamints, each a handful; Chamaemel and Elder flowers, each a pugil: Rosemary flowers half a pugil, Foenugreek or Line seed six drams, Carua and Cummin seed, each a dram and an half; Figs six pair, boyl them in Wine and Water.

Make a Cataplasm of the Residents of the Decoction beate with Bean flower two ounces, Ashes of burnt Coleworts two drams, Oyl of Lillies two ounces, Honey an ounce, with an ounce and an half of Doves dung it will draw more.

Or anoynt the side with Oyl of Lillies, Flower-de-luce or Wall-flower.

Or dip Wool therein and apply it, or a Cabbage leaf to draw: for which purpose they use only a Clout dipt in Sulphur.

Or this Oyntment which discusseth very wel. Take Oyl of Lillies two ounces, Oyl of Orris and Dill, each an ounce; juyce of Dwarf-Elder or Onyons an ounce and an half, Aqua vitae two drams, boyl them till the Waters are consumed, add Flower-de-luce root a dram and an half, Cummin seed a dram, Saffron half a scruple, Galbanum and Sagapenum dissolved in Aqua vitae, each a dram; Turpen∣tine two drams, Hogs grease and Oesipus or grease of wool, each half an ounce; with Wax make an Ointment. Goats or Pigeons dung and Brimstone, each a dram, will make it stronger.

If you anoynt with Oyntment of Marsh-mallows, and sprinkle Cummin seed upon the part, it is as good here as in a true Pleurisie.

Also the Plaster of Diachylon with Orris.

But if after the use of Anodynes the pain abate not but rather increase, especially if the pain increase by being touched, and if a Tumor appear outwardly, then be∣cause it tends to suppuration, apply things that may help it forward, such as were mentioned for the Quin∣sie to be applied outwardly, or these.

A Fomentation: Take Marsh-mallow roots three oun∣ces, Roots of Lillies an ounce, Mallows, Scabious, Glassweed, each a handful; Flowers of Melilot and Dill, each a pugil; Figgs six pair, Lineseed an ounce, boyl them in Water and Milk.

Beat the Residents, and with Flower of Lineseed, Muci∣lage of Quinces, and Marsh-mallow roots, each an ounce; Butter two ounces, make a Cataplasm.

This ripens better and opens the Imposthume. Take Onions and Lillies, roast and stamp them, add six ounces of Marsh-mallow roots bruised an ounce, Pease flower two ounces, Barley-leaven, or of French Wheat called Spelt an ounce and half, Pulp of Figgs an ounce, with Butter and Hogs grease make a Cataplasm, if you add Goat or Pige∣ons dung an ounce, and Mustard and Water-cress-seeds, each a dram; it will sooner open it.

It may be broken by violent Motion of the breast, as Roaring, Neesing, Vomiting, but not so safely.

If in a watery or windy pleurisie there be a stretching in the Membranes, * 1.5 from a Humor or Water gotten thither, which causeth pricking, you must use things that stop the Humor, and turn it from the breast if it still flow, or if it be wind, give things that hinder the breeding of it, and keep it from the part. And in both cases apply to the part things that discuss, and digest, and consume Wind and Water.

Diversions are made by cupping, Friction, and wash∣ing, and other things that stop Defluxions and carry wind other wayes: but you must not open a Vein but when by reason of great pain you fear Inflammation, and only in plethorick bodies.

Sharp Clysters revel also, with things to expel Wind, in which Hiera dissolved is highly commended.

And purges with preparatives first, not only gentle to revell, but strong to draw down and send forth wind and humors that produce it: these are better here than in a pleurisie from Inflammation (which some do use in the pleurisie called Flegmatick which they dream comes from an Inflammation) Therefore we rather use Rhubarb, Agarick or Scammony, or Coloquintida or Hellebore as the Ancients, especially Hiera of Coloquinti∣da commended so by Galen against a pleurisie, here then in an Inflammation in which we can give no strong Purges profitable, but with great hurt.

These Purges are mentioned in Diseases from De∣fluxions, here and there, and in palpitation from wind and in Rheums falling upon the breast.

And there you may find Altering Remedies also.

It is in vain here to give expectorating medicines as in a true pleurisie, except a Defluxion fall upon the Lungs. But some things there mentioned which work by a hidden quality or by drying or digesting may be given here.

As the Carduus waters (which some think cures pric∣king pains because of the prickles) as that of the Blessed Thistle called religiously the Carduus of Mary, or their seeds, or an Emulsion made of them and of Hemp∣seed.

The Vulgar Women keep a water for this made of Ice gathered in March.

There are also other Remedies that cure a pleurisie without causing Coughing, as that of a Bores tusk, and the like, which are good here. and many better for a false than a true pleurisie, for divers of them are hot and dry which cannot be good in Inflammations, but by a hidden quality, and those may work in this Dis∣ease by a manifest as wel as a secret vertue. Especially those there mentioned of Dioscorides for pleuresies in general.

Also Oyl of sweet Almonds and Line seed given to dilate the breast, are good here taken in good quantities.

And Wine if nothing else forbid it, and other Meats and Drinks mentioned in Defluxion and Diseases of wind.

Apply outwardly things to dissolve and discuss wind and humors, and to take away pain.

As a great Cupping-glass to the part, with fire, which will draw out the Humor and Wind, by an attractive Vertue, not by Heat, (as some think) for Heat is not used to warm the breast, but to make the Glass stick.

Also actual Heat doth the same, if it be gentle, it qua∣lifyeth the pain, if strong, it discusseth and consumes thin Humors and Wind, as the Heat of the Sun doth the Clouds. This may be done by any warm Cloths, or with warm Water, in a bladder or brass vessels, to keep the heat longer, made on purpose; Olive Oyl in a bladder hot, take away pain, But in a true Pleurisie it must be but luke-warm.

Also Fomentations of things actually and potential∣ly hot, with a Spunge felt, or Wool, squees'd a little that it may not wet too much, or in a bladder rather then in brass, that the vertue may pierce sooner, and changed when cold.

They are made of Decoctions mentioned in Infla∣mation of the Membrane.

Or thus: Take Marsh-mallow roots an ounce, Orris, Galangal, each half an ounce; Calamints, Wormwood, Or∣gan, Thyme, each a handful; Chamomil, Melilot, Rosema∣ry and Stoechas flowers, each a pugil; Caraway, Cummin, and Fennel-seed, each half an ounce; Foenngreek and Linseed an ounce, Bay-berries an ounce and half, bruise and boyl them in Wine and Water.

This is an excellent Experiment in all side-pains.

Take Spirits of Wine six ounces, Camphire a dram, boyl them till the Camphire is dissolved, add where it is hot Pouders of sweet Sanders a dram and half: wet Clouts, therein, and apply them hot.

Also dry baggs hot. As, Take Bran, and the whole Seeds of Milium, or Grumwel, or seeds of Panicum, and Oats, each two pugils; Salt an ounce, fry them, and make baggs to be shifted as in Fomentations. They are better, if you sprinkle a little Wine, or Aqua vitae, or white Wine∣vinegar, to pierce.

This is stronger: Take Bay-berries a pugil, Juniper∣berries half a pugil, Caraway and Cummin, each an ounce; Fennel-seed a dram, dryed Hysop, Savory, Thyme, Organ, Marjoram, each a dram; Rosemary and Chamomil-flowers, each a dram and an half; Orris roots a dram, Salt half an ounce, make a Pouder for a bag, as before.

The residents of the Decoction mentioned, squeezed between two trenchers, is also good.

Or Cataplasms made of them, as we shewed in the Inflammation of the Membrane, with Pouder of Cara∣way and Cummin-seed, each six drams; Oyl of Rue and Orris, each an ounce; Pigeon or Goats dung half an ounce, with two Yolks of Eggs.

Also Oyls or Oyntments there mentioned, sprinkle the part after with pouder of Cummin-seed, which is excellent in all Pleurisies, to consume Humors and Wind.

Or this Cerot: Take Thyme a dram and half, Spike, Cloves, Sanders, each half a dram; Storax a dram, red wax an ounce and half, with Hogs grease make a round Cerot, and a dram of Orris pouder.

Also the Emplaster of Bay-berries malaxed with Oyl of Lillies, or mixed with the Cerot.

Or this: Take Opopanax, Galbanum, Serapinum or Sagapenum, each two drams; dissolve them in equal patts of Aqua vitae, and white Wine-vinegar, add pouder of Cum∣min-seed half an ounce, Caraway, Seseli, Lovage-seed, each a dram; dryed Rue half a dram, Brimstone a dram, with Oyl of Rue, or Penny-royal, and a little Turpentine make a Plaster.

Another Plaister of Honey, and Oyl of Wormwood boyled, is good also.

And many outward Remedies mentioned in out∣ward pains, from Humors or Wind.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The Prognesticks of a true Pleurisie and Peripneumony.
• * 1.2

  The Cure of a true Pleurisis and Perip∣neumony.
• * 1.3

  The Cure of a Pleuri∣sie, or Peripneumony, and the Pleurisie of the girding Membrane when they meet togeth∣er.
• * 1.4

  The Cure of the Pleurisie, which is only in the gird∣ing Membrane.
• * 1.5

  The cure of a false pleurisie of wind and water.