CHAP. I. That a nice and strict observation of any of those six things nor natural, except Exercise, is no legitimate means for the preservation of health, or prevention of diseases.

MEdicina, that Art, which in our English tongue is common­ly stiled by the term of Physick, that hath for its object dis­ [...]ases, either to be prevented or re­ [...]oved, and for its end or scope the [Page 2] health of humane bodies, doth cosist of two general parts, viz. Pr [...] phylactical and Therapeutical. T [...] Prophylactical part of Physick she [...] how diseases may be prevented▪ The Therapeutical part discove [...] how they may be removed [...] cured, after they are once co [...] tracted.

I shall first treat of the Prophy [...] ctical part, and shew, how by t [...] common Medicaments, diseases m [...] as well or better be prevented, th [...] by that various and multiform [...] byrinth, wherein most Physitians this time do wander. Not tha [...] pretend how by these Medicamen [...] all manner of diseases in all pers [...] whatsoever, shall or may be so c [...] ­tainly prevented, as that no [...] stemper can possibly happen u [...] any of those persons that use the [...] for if this could be effected, m [...] would then be immortal. But speak comparatively, that as mu [...] or more may be effected towar [...] [Page 3] the prevention of diseases by this Compendious, than by that Ela­ [...]orate and more tedious pro­ceeding.

The way and means which hath been, and is at this time in use amongst Physitians to prevent diseases, is to give prescriptions unto several persons, according to their various temperaments, complexi­ons, or constitutions, concerning Air, Diet, Excretion, Sleep, the Passions of the minde, and Exercise: Things, as they are termed by Phy­sitians, not natural, (for all things that the Physitian hath to do with, are ranked into three orders, viz. Res naturales, non naturales, & praeter naturam) which things not natural, if they shall be exquisitely proportioned, and made corre­pondent with each particular con­stitution, and so continued in their proportion, may without all per­adventure in a great measure pre­vent diseases. But to make and [Page 4] continue such an exquisite proportion, is altogether impossible.

To make a stone or powder [...] that quality, that it shall convert a [...] metalls into gold that shall be touched by it, is certainly a direct way [...] increase riches. Yet if such a ston [...] or powder cannot by humane A [...] be produced, it is an absurd thing t [...] historize the dignity and worth o [...] that imaginary stone, and propound it for the intent and purpose aforesaid.

The case is the same in the proportioning Air, Diet, Sleep, &c things not natural, unto particula [...] constitutions. I deny not but th [...] those things not natural, may an [...] ought to be appropriated to disease [...] for the cure of the same; yet tha [...] they cannot be proportioned to particular constitutions, for prevention of diseases, I shall shew by discoursing upon them particularly.

And suppose they could be so proportioned, yet would it be a very [Page 5] difficult thing to be perform'd, in respect of that necessity which pro­vidence hath cast almost upon all men, enforcing them to the con­trary. As for example: Suppose that such particular Air, or Diet, should be absolutely necessary for the preservation of health, for all persons of a sanguine or phlegmatick complexion in this City, how many would there be who would have no convenience for the use of either? If a certain particular air, should be absolutely necessary for the preser­vation of the health of some par­ticular persons, even Kings them­selves might be pitied in this re­spect, who by keeping the same air, must either lose their health, or by changing it, endanger the loss of their Kingdom.

When a certain King demanded of a Philosopher, in what part of his Kingdom it would be most conve­nient for him to live; The Philo­sopher call'd for a Bulls Hide, and [Page 6] throwing it down, desir'd the Ki [...] to tread upon it; who treading upo [...] the sides, found by experience th [...] the contrary sides, by reason of th [...] stiffness of the Leather would fly [...] in his face; but when he trode in th [...] midst, the whole Hide was coucha [...] and still.

Now if Kings themselves at [...] oftentimes necessitated to retain t [...] same air, much more may we co [...] ceive Subjects and inferiour perso [...] to be: Insomuch that if it were s [...] that a certain particular Air, an [...] Diet, &c. were absolutely necessar [...] for all persons, according to the several constitutions, for the prese [...] vation of their health, Providenc [...] might in some measure be complain'd of, for enforcing the greate [...] part of mankinde unto so hard choice, as the loss either of the [...] health or estate. But as in reason, is not probable that Divine Providence hath dealt so hardly with u [...] so experience will evince the contrary. [Page 7] For, 'tis well known by ex­ [...]rience, that but one of those six [...]ngs not natural, which is Exercise, [...] much concern'd in the preserva­tion of health, or prevention of diseases; of which afterwards in its proper place.

CHAP. II. How air can be appropriated to par­ticular constitutions for preservation of health.

IT is a very hard thing in the ge­neral to distinguish of air under the same climate, whether it be better or worse for the preservation of the health of humane bodies. For we know that here in England, in those places which are reputed to have the worst air, as in Fenny and Marshy places, the inhabitants are as strong in constitution, and gene­rally do live as long as others, who [Page 8] breath that air which is accoun [...] most pure and healthful. And [...] those persons that are so healthfu [...] and live so long, in that suppose unwholsom air, are of different complexions, some sanguine, som [...] cholerick, some phlegmatick, an [...] others melancholick, or else mi [...] of these, yet different from eac [...] other, according to that infinite v [...] riety of proportion of the foresai [...] humours, which is easilier conceiv [...] than expressed.

Insomuch that in the same ai [...] which is supposed to be the wor [...] persons of all kindes of temperaments or complexions injoy thei [...] health, whilst, in the mean time others altogether as different in thei [...] complexions, in the very purest ai [...] are either soon cut off with death, o [...] else most part of their life-time d [...] groan under the heavy burden o [...] sickness and diseases.

Now although it may be here ob­jected, that many who have a gene­ral [Page 9] Cachexy upon them, who cannot perfectly and throughly injoy their health, do finde in themselves an al­teration to the better, by the change of air; yet we are not to ascribe this to the quality of the air, but to the difference, to the alternation, vicissi­tude, or change, which procureth a fermentation of the mass of blood, the next and immediate cause of health. For certain it is, that change of air doth ferment the mass of blood, of what quality soever the changed air be; and it is known by common experience, that the change of air, although from the better to the worse, doth oftentimes remove Cachectical distempers.

Who would not think, but that a clear and dry air, should be far better for persons that are inclined unto Aguish distempers, than to live in a Ship at Sea, especially in these Northern Climates, where the air is more cold and watry? Yet is it known by experience, that even [Page 10] Quartain Agues have been cured b [...] going to Sea, by changing a bette [...] for a reputed worse air: The one reason without all peradventure, this, viz. A just fermentation the mass of blood caused by the change of air.

But here it may also be objecte [...] that some bodies that are healthfu [...] do find an alteration to the worse, b [...] the change of air.

To this, I answer; That those a [...] bodies of a more delicate and fi [...] habit, who being in perfect healt [...] cannot but be somewhat altered, b [...] the change of their accustomed A [...] For if the change of aire can ma [...] an alteration to the better in bodi [...] that are distempered, it may as we [...] make an alteration to the worse [...] other bodies, that are in perfe [...] health; especially in such bodies [...] are of a more tender constitutio [...] seeing also that health doth depen [...] upon a just, not an under nor over fermentation of the mass of blood.

[Page 11]By this it may appear, how vain a thing it is for prevention of Diseases, to prescribe a particular air, to some particular constitutions; whereas that alteration which happeneth un­to some bodies, is caused not by the quality, but by change of the air.

CHAP. III. Whether a strict observation of Diet, may conduce to the prevention of Diseases.

IN the next place let us inquire in­to the nature of Diet, how that can be appropriated unto particular complexions, for prevention of Di­seases.

And this I finde impossible to be done. The way and means to effect this, should be, first to inquire into the Nature and Constitution of the Person to be Dieted, then to pre­scribe such a Diet as may rectifie what [Page 12] is conceiv'd to be amiss in him. [...] for example: to prescribe such diet as may lenifie sharp Humour [...] such a diet as may incrassate ser [...] and thin humours, and attem [...] those that are viscous and thi [...] &c.

But how is it possible for the wis [...] Physitian, to know the particul [...] Constitution of any person living 'Tis confess'd, it is a matter of [...] great difficulty, to make a very pr [...] bable Conjecture of the Te [...] perament, whether it be Phlematick or Cholerick, &c. but touching the diet, this is not suffi [...] ent. There is that in Nature whi [...] the Greeks call [...], a prop [...] and particular temperament, un [...] each Individuum, which by a sec [...] instinct, inclines many persons [...] desire, and enables them to dige [...] such diet as many Physitians woul [...] think (upon the account of th [...] Temperament which appears unt [...] them) as hurtful as poyson unto [Page 13] them. And on the contrary, many there are who would be sick even [...]nto death, if they should make use of some such diet, as Physitians would prescribe them. How many are there of Phlegmatick Constitu­tions, who do nauseate and loath Hony, the great Attenuatour of Phlegm and viscous humors, and that which by almost all Physitians is commonly prescribed, for the same purpose? And again, there are ma­ny whose bodies seem to abound with viscous and gross humours; yet by a secret instinct of Nature, resulting from that [...] or pro­per temperament, they do not only desire, but do also very easily digest Cheese, and Fish, and other such things which most Physitians would strictly forbid them.

You shall have two persons of the same Temperament, as near as any Physitian is able to judge; the one shall desire Cheese, and very easily digest it; the other shall be sick even [Page 14] at the very sight of it. The o [...] shall abhor Wine, and strong Drin [...] who perhaps never drank any thin [...] beside water, in all his life-time; an [...] the other shall be unsatisfied, and si [...] at his stomach, if he drink not eith [...] wine, or strong drink, at all his meal [...] The one shall abhor Flesh-meat, an [...] preserve his health by refusing it and the other, though of the sam [...] Temperament, as far as any Physitian can judge, shall much desire it and be very healthful all his life-time by reason of the use of it.

So that to prescribe a diet, is no [...] so much the way and means to pre­vent, as to produce diseases; seeing that Nature, the wisest of Physiti­ans, hath provided for every parti­cular person, a different and distinct palate, which (if not vitiated and corrupted by some accident) doth truly distinguish of meats, relishing or disgusting them according as they are wholsome or unwholsome for the body.

[Page 15]'Tis well known in Martial Disci­ [...]ine, that he who stands Sentinel, [...]ath and ought to have full power to examine all particular persons, be­ [...]ore he admit them entrance into the Garison. Now suppose that some De­puty-Governour in the Governour's absence, should so far question the discretion of him that stands Senti­nel, as to take away all his power of Examining; and in stead thereof, give him in charge to admit, with­out Examination, all persons that have black hair, and to exclude o­thers: This might be a means to exclude some Friends, and to admit of some Enemies, and so to destroy the Garison.

Every Physitian is Natures Lieu­tenant, or Deputy Governour; the Palate is that Sentinel which stands to examine every thing that is in­gested into the body. Now if the Physitian, Natures Lieutenant, should take away the Palates power of ex­amination, and in stead thereof, give [Page 16] onely some general precepts, wh [...] and what not, is to be ingested; [...] this means he shall, by excludi [...] friends, and admitting enemies, r [...] ther destroy, than preserve [...] bodies health and welfare.

CHAP. IIII. Whether Excretion by siege or sto [...] besides that by sweat and urine, necessary to preserve health.

ANother way and means in u [...] amongst Physicians, to preser [...] health, and to prevent diseases, to provide and take care that the be due excretion, that the body [...] kept Laxative or Soluble, whereb [...] all that excrementitious matte [...] that shall by any accident be co [...] lected in the mass of bloud, ma [...] conveniently, by siege or stool, b [...] separated, excerned and purged that so the mass of bloud may [...] [Page 17] reserv'd sincere and pure, in all re­ [...]ts fit for the use of nature.

This, I confess, seems to be some­ [...]at pregnant with reason; yet not­ [...]thstanding experience doth clearly [...]onfute it.

'Tis known by experience, that [...]any, who are most careful, by Art, [...]o preserve their bodies Soluble and [...]axative, are seldom throughly and [...]rfectly healthful; yet many others, [...]o are continually Costive, who go [...]ot to stool every day, and perhaps, [...]metimes not above once in three [...]r four dayes, do enjoy their perfect [...]ealth for many years together. [...]lthough it cannot be denyed, but [...]at most persons, who are naturally [...]axative, are also very healthful: [...]et is it much to be suspected, [...]hether that Solubility of body, [...]hich some have beyond others, do [...]ot proceed, rather from a deficien­ [...]y, than perfection of Nature: see­ [...]ng also that most men are Costive, [...]d they that are Laxative, are [Page 18] of the weakest constitutions.

Through the viscosity of h [...] mours, obstructing the urinato [...] passages, through the coldness of t [...] body, thickness of the skin, [...] closeness of the pores, where [...] transpiration is hindred, industrio [...] nature being put to her shifts, is [...] cessitated to vent a great part of th [...] serous humidity, by siege or stoo [...] which she had rather throw out sweat and urine. So that this S [...] lubility of body, may at the best, stil'd nothing else, than a good eff [...] of a bad cause. Although it be w [...] to be lik'd, that Nature hath length, found out a new chanel, [...] ­vent her superfluous humidity; y [...] had it been much better, if she h [...] never been so far put to her shifts to seek it.

Yet is it the common and gene [...] receiv'd opinion, that Solubility body doth proceed from the pe [...] fection of Nature; and that in [...] bodies she doth primarily intend [Page 19] [...] how can this be any other than a [...]gar errour? Whereas those that [...] commonly Costive, are such as [...] eat, drink, sleep, digest, ex­ [...]ise, and perform all other offices [...] Nature, perfectly and exactly: [...] on the other side, those that [...]on every small occasion are sub­ [...]t unto Solubility, or looseness, [...] either aged persons, sickly and [...]akly young Children, Women in [...]ilde-bed, consumptive persons; [...] else others, that are known by ex­ [...]rience to be of the weakest con­ [...]tutions. And besides, that it is [...]e intent and scope of Nature, to [...]parate any excrementitious mat­ [...]r, that may be collected in the [...]ass of bloud, by throwing it off to­ [...]ther with the serous part, and con­ [...]ying it through the Ureters and [...]res by urine and sweat, it may clearly appear by that large quantity of Hypostasis or Sediment that i [...] in the urine of those persons that are [...]ecovering from sickness, and by [Page 20] their great inclination, at that t [...] unto sweating.

So that whereas solubility of b [...] was never primarily intended [...] Nature, but onely made use of [...] accident, to purge the blood; [...] make such provision that the bo [...] be kept soluble, must needs be far from preserving health, and p [...] venting diseases, that it may ve [...] well be thought to be a means, [...] disturbing Nature, to destroy heal [...] and to cause distempers.

CHAP. V. Whether it be Necessary for the Pres [...] vation of Health, to observe Ru [...] concerning sleep.

ANother means to preser [...] health, in use amongst Phy [...] tians, is to prescribe rules concer [...] ing sleep, that it be not excessi [...] nor deficient, but moderate agre [...] able to the Constitution. Now w [...] [Page 21] must know that sleep is nothing else, us a cessation of the exercise of the [...]mal Faculties, caused by a de­ [...]ency of spirits, which spirits [...] the onely promoters or setters [...] work, of the exercise of those [...]mal Faculties.

The spirits are nothing else but a [...]re Halitus, or thin matter breath'd [...]n the Mass of blood, which as [...]y are in a continual production [...]ayes arising from the Mass of [...]od; so are they also in perpetual [...]ence, drawn out by External [...]jects, and continually losing them­ [...]ves in the air.

Now by the exercise of the animal [...]lties, as motion of the body, [...]ing, &c. or by the senses, Hear­ [...] Seeing, &c. entertained by [...]ternal objects; the expence is greater than the procreation or [...]duction of the spirits. But by [...]cessation of the exercise of those [...]mal Faculties, the spirits are again [...]uited and restored: for by that [Page 22] means the production becomes greater than the expence.

Here is also to be noted, that how much the exercise of the ani [...] faculties shall be more intense remiss; so much the more or [...] sleep will be required for the resti [...] tion of the lost spirits.

From hence it may appear [...] sleep is by no means to be appro [...] ated unto the constitution, bu [...] necessarily required by Nature p [...] portionably to the expense of spi [...] caused by the exercise of the ani [...] Faculties.

Now although there be s [...] Lethargical and sleepy diseases, we are not in the least to conc [...] that sleep is the cause, but the [...] duct and effect, or at least the adj [...] or concomitant of such diseases.

The restitution of decayed spi [...] cannot possibly be the cause of disease whatsoever, but rath [...] preservative against diseases: wh [...] fore to prescribe rules for the [...] ation [Page 23] of sleep, is in some sort to [...]ulate the strength of Nature, and [...]estrain the body from being too [...]ate and lively.

[...]f sleep, be it never so much, can any cause of disease; How comes [...]o pass, that young Children who [...]nd the greatest part of the first [...]rter, in continual sleep, become [...]re lively and thriving, than others [...]o sleep less? Or how happens it [...]t some aged persons spin out the [...]ed of their lives to a great ex­ [...]t by much sleeping?

CHAP. VI. [...]ether the Regulation of the Passions of the Mind, be a Legitimate means to prevent Diseases.

ANother means in use amongst Physitians, for the preserva­ [...]n of health, is the Regulation of [...]e affections or passions of the mind. [Page 24] Now although it cannot be deni [...] but that the Irregular passions of [...] minde may do much hurt to the [...] dy, and that there is somewhat [...] to be attributed to the discre [...] of every person, as to the regulat [...] of his passions: Yet must we h [...] presuppose that health of body is [...] cessarily required for the regulat [...] of all humane affections. Insom [...] that the regulation of our affecti [...] is rather to be conceiv'd an eff [...] product, and result, than any ca [...] of health. As to the affections [...] passions, as anger, joy, fear, gr [...] &c. there can scarce be mens sa [...] except it be in corpore sano. For know by experience, that sick, ag [...] and consumptive persons, are [...] more peevish and fretful than othe [...] Although, when the body is dissed, the minde, or soul it self, [...] be in perfect health; yet the affe [...] ons, which are the souls attenda [...] must needs be disturb'd and disq [...] eted, whensoever the body shall [Page 25] [...]emper'd, because their very es­ [...]ce, or being, doth depend upon [...] crasis, or temperament of the [...]dy. And so on the contrary, they [...]st needs be altogether as much in [...] souls reach, to be regulated and [...]mmanded by her when the body healthful. It is in some sense a [...]st certain and infallible Axiome, Mores sequuntur humores) viz. that [...] manners, i. e. the affections of [...] minde, have dependance upon [...] humours of the body.

From hence it cannot but be [...]ought more rational, that provi­ [...]on be made first for the body, that be preserv'd in health, that so the actions of the minde may be re­ [...]ated, than to prescribe the regu­ [...]ion of the affections as a cause and [...] server of health.

CHAP. VII. That the chief preserver of health Exercise, because it doth ferm [...] the mass of bloud; and that wh [...] soever else doth cause fermentati [...] may be used as a fit Succedane [...] for Exercise.

NOw am I arriv'd unto the si [...] and last, which is a true a legitimate means, prescribed by Physicians, for the preservation [...] health, and prevention of diseas [...] and this is bodily Exercise. [...] thing so well known by experie [...] to preserve health, that they [...] do moderately use it, stand in ne [...] of no other preventing Physi [...] This is that which makes the labo [...] ing man's sleep pleasant and sw [...] unto him: This is that which she [...] the Justice and equality of Divi [...] Providence, distributing the hap [...] ness [Page 27] of this world, in some good [...]asure alike unto the Sons of men. [...]or they who are necessitated, and [...]nstrain'd to work hard for a live­ [...]od, are recompensed with the [...]ition of health, than which no­ [...]ng is more comfortable and de­ [...]ble in this world. And certainly, [...]e the virtue and efficacy of Ex­ [...]cise, for the prevention of diseases, [...]tter known, or more seriously [...]sidered, many Millions in this [...]rld, might be happy in the injoy­ [...]nt of their health, who are now [...]iserable by reason of the want of it. [...] many there are, who by reason [...]ameness, or debilitation, through [...]he accident, are rendred inca­ [...]le of exercising: and many more, [...]o are prevented by their professi­ [...] whose imployment is Writing, [...]ving, Studying, or some such like, [...]hich enforceth them unto a still [...] sedenary life; and as many, who though they do sometimes Exer­ [...]e, yet not so often, nor unto that [Page 28] degree and measure which Natu [...] requires. Besides that innumer [...] multitude of others, who hav [...] contracted a depraved habit of E [...] minacy and softness of living, [...] think it a thing burthensom, [...] troublesom to Nature, although the preservation of their health Exercise; and cannot by any a [...] ments be perswaded unto it, but [...] apt to think such remedy as b [...] or worse than any disease it [...] prevent.

So that although Exercise ma [...] of it self sufficient to prevent [...] eases, yet seeing that there are many Accidents which may poss [...] hinder Exercise, it cannot but [...] conceiv'd a thing profitable u [...] many persons, for prevention of [...] eases, to propound some other [...] and means which may serve in st [...] thereof.

Not that I am willing, by [...] means, to entice any unto a sed [...] tary life, but am rather desirous [Page 29] gratifie all those with a fit and meet Succedaneum, who cannot, either by [...]son of their employment, or some [...]her accident, use Exercise.

Here we are first to suppose, that [...]odily Exercise is an adequate cause [...]o produce the effect of continuance [...]f health: And this I should first [...]ove by reason, were it not suffi­ [...]ently known unto all men by ex­ [...]erience, which is the very basis and [...]undation of reason. It being then [...]anted, that moderate Exercise is [...]ay and means to preserve health, [...] us enquire into the manner how [...] produceth that effect. And this [...] [...]inde to be done by fermenting of [...]e mass of bloud. Now this fer­ [...]entation of the mass of bloud, is [...]anted by all Physicians, to be the [...]xt and immediate cause of health. [...] that whatsoever hath a power in [...] self, to put a just fermentation [...]on the mass of bloud, may be a [...] Succedaneum to be used in the [...]tad of Exercise, and by conse­quence [Page 30] must needs be a proper a fit Medicament to be given for t [...] prevention of Diseases, or preser [...] ­tion of Health.

But before I propound those pa [...] ticular Medicaments, whose natu [...] and property is to ferment; I sh [...] discourse in general of Fermen [...] tion.

CHAP. VIII. What is meant by Fermentation.

FErmentation, is a certain moti [...] of the Particles of some He [...] rogeneous matter, whereby th [...] Particles become so perfectly mi [...] and incorporated into each othe [...] that the matter doth from the [...] result Homogeneous, or Simil [...] i. e. consisting of no other parts th [...] what are of like nature one to an [...] ther, and like unto the whole.

As for Example: When Leave [...] [Page 31] that is, extream sowre Paste, is mixt with other sweet or insipid Paste, by [...]rmentation the sowre Particles [...]e so incorporated with the sweet, [...] insipid, that they do receive an [...]solute and perfect allay from each [...]her; the insipid parts put off their [...]savouriness, and the other their sowreness, insomuch that the Mass or Lump doth result of a middle [...]ture compounded of them both. Yet so perfectly compounded, that the Lump may then be denominated Homogeneous or similar, which be­fore Fermentation was Heteroge­ious; because that after Fermenta­ [...]on, it cannot be divided into insi­ [...]d and sowre parts, nor into any [...]her parts or particles different from [...]ch other, or different from the [...]hole.

Thus are we to understand of the [...]ermentation of the Mass of blood; [...]he Mass of blood is in it self a vari­ [...]usly-compounded and mixt body, consisting of such diversity of parts, [Page 32] all apt to act upon the body afte [...] different manner according to [...] nature of each part, that were th [...] not all united by Fermentation, th [...] would quickly destroy the body Obstructing, Corroding, Exul [...] ­rating, Putrifying, &c. but bei [...] by Fermentation united, the visco [...] and thick parts are Attenuated, t [...] thin are incrassated, and the Ac [...] mony thereof much contemper [...] and allayed; and all other partic [...] so firmly embodied into those th [...] are of a contrary nature unto the [...] selves, that the mass is thereby re [...] dred of a just crasis or temperame [...] fit for the Nutriment of the body.

To this end, there is given, b [...] the providence of Nature, even un [...] the very Embryon in the Womb, large Coagulum of blood, I me [...] the Liver, together with the form [...] tion of its parts, that whatsoever [...] ingested into the body, may by vertue of this Coagulum be fermented and so united unto the mass, that [...] [Page 33] the tender parts may, by the mass [...] blood receive no detriment, but [...] nourished and augmented by it. [...]ow that Nature hath designed the [...]wer in young Children for Fer­ [...]ntation, it is evident; in that then the Liver ceaseth to do its [...]ffice, that is, to ferment the blood, often times grows unto the side of [...]hilde; even as the Umbilical Vein [...]sing to convey nutriment into the [...]dy degnerates from its former na­ [...]re, and unites it self with the [...]uscles of the Abdomen.

And as Nature doth at first pro­ [...]de this Coagulum for young Infants, [...] doth she afterwards by degrees [...]ovide for others that are adult by [...]ongesting in the other side of the [...]ody another Ferment or Leaven of more terrestrial substance; I mean, the Milt or Spleen, altogether as fit [...] perform the office of Fermenta­ [...]on in others, as the Liver in young [...]hildren.

Here it will not be unworth our [Page 34] observation to take notice, [...] whatsoever is receiv'd into the Ve [...] and Arteries, and circulated to [...] ther with the mass of bloud, exce [...] it be united to the bloud by Ferm [...] tation, cannot but become hurt to the body. It may either by [...] Density and Viscosity obstruct [...] narrow passages, or by its Acrim [...] corrode the tenderest parts, or [...] by its putrefaction corrupt [...] bloud. Now here we must n [...] that by Concorporation with [...] mass of bloud, it's hurtful quali [...] can receive no allay, except t [...] Concorporation be done by [...] mentation. As for example: [...] Hony there is a certain sharp or [...] rosive part, which although it [...] Concorporated with that o [...] sweet and healing part, yet is [...] the Acrimony thereof allayed, [...] by being Fermented with the swee [...] part it is thereby abated; the tr [...] whereof may appear by this Expe [...] ment. Take a pound of Hony, a [...] [Page 35] [...]oyle it a little while in three Pints [...] any water that will bear Yeast; [...]sh any sore with this liquor un­ [...]orked, and you may observe it to [...] very detersive and cleansing: [...]at afterwards work the same with [...] little Yeast, and then you shall [...]de it of another nature, not in the [...]ast detersive. By Fermenting or [...]orking, the sweet and sharp parts [...] the Honey, are so firmly united to [...]ch other, that they lose their for­ [...]er nature, and produce a third, [...]hich is different from either. [...]ence it is also, that not onely the [...]arper, but the sweeter parts also of [...]at liquor, by Fermentation, are [...]ayed, as may appear by its taste [...]nto every Palate.

CHAP. IX. What things perform the act of Fe [...] mentation.

HAving in the general touch'd [...] little upon fermentation, [...] shall now recite a Catalogue of suc [...] things, as are indued with a facul [...] of fermenting, especially those th [...] are most signal. And these ar [...] Coral, Pearl, Mother of Pea [...] Steel, Crabs Eyes, Egg shells, t [...] Liver and Milt of all kinde [...] Animals boyled and dryed; t [...] Shells of Crabs and Lobsters, Cora [...] lina; with many others. All whi [...] agree in this, that they lenifie sha [...] humours; open obstructions; pr [...] voke the Menses; stay the bleedi [...] at Nose, or else-where; stop, wi [...] much safety, all manner of Flu [...] es: asswage pain; provoke Urine; p [...] a good confitence upon the mass [...] [Page 37] [...]loud; strengthen the Spirits; allay [...]apours; exhilarate the minde; [...]rocure an Appetite; help Digesti­ [...]; open the Pores, and produce an [...]sensible transpiration; clear the [...]kin, and make the Countenance [...]egete and lively.

Now although all these things, do work all these effects in some de­ [...]ee and measure, yet seeing that [...]xperience hath found some to be more infallible and certain than o­ [...]er some, or at least more general: shall propound that which experi­ence hath taught to be the most ge­neral of all, and that is, Steel. And [...]eing that in this also experience hath found some uncertainty, by [...]eason of its various preparations, [...]nd several wayes of exhibition; I [...]hall above all commend one prepa­ [...]ation, called, Sacharum Martis, or Sugar of Steel, and that to be given [...]o otherwise than in Wine or Wa­ [...]er. And this Sugar of Steel, so ex­hibited, may be truly called, Pana­cea, [Page 38] or that universal Medicame [...] which may in it self be sufficient, [...] touching the Prophylactical part [...] Physick, that is, to prevent disea [...] and preserve health, as you m [...] read afterwards. Yet is it not to [...] denyed but that Steel hath be [...] often tryed, and found ineffectual [...] the distempers of young Infant Whether it be for want of due Pr [...] paration, or that it is too strong Ferment: However, I shall not [...] present propound this, although t [...] best Preparation of Steel for tende [...] Infants, but offer another Med [...] cament, yet of the same tribe which is well known by experience not onely of my self, but divers [...] thers; and this is Red Coral, [...] which also you shall read afterward [...]

It is not impertinent in this plac [...] to shew, how that grand Quae [...] may be resolv'd, viz. How is it possible, that the same individual Medicament, should be efficacious to pre­vent or cure several diseases o [...] [Page 39] [...]fferent, and perhaps of contrary [...]ndes? Which thing is evident and [...]ear by what is here supposed. It [...]here supposed, that Fermentation [...]f the mass of bloud doth lenifie [...]arp humours, and yet attenuate [...]hose that are viscous and gross; that [...] doth both provoke, and yet stop [...]he overflowing of the Menses, and [...]roduce many other such like effects of a contrary nature. So that if any [...]ne Medicament will but Ferment [...]he bloud, it may by the same reason produce different, yea contrary [...]ffects upon the body.

This is also to be exploded for a [...]alse opinion, viz. That Steel performs [...]ontrary effects, opens obstructions, yet stops Fluxes, by a diversity of parts which it hath in it self. Whereas [...]t performs these different effects onely by that one individual act of Fermenting the bloud, seeing also that all other things, as Coral, Pearl, Corallina, &c. which have a facul­ty of Fermenting, do produce the [Page 40] same different effects. I shall now she the use of these two Medicamen [...] first of the Coral for Children, all th [...] are under seven years of age; a [...] afterwards of the Steel for all othe [...] Men, Women, and Children, abo [...] seven. But this is first to be adve [...] tised, that it is not here pretend [...] how the Coral and Steel do of the [...] selves perform the whole Act [...] Fermentation, but onely by Fe [...] menting a little, do put the Liv [...] and Spleen upon their Office of Fementation, even as exercise dot [...] whereof these are propounded as Succedaneum; yet so, as that so [...] exercise, if possible, is also to be use with them.

CHAP. X. [...]w Childrens diseases may be pre­vented by the use of Red Coral, which Fermenteth the Mass of Bloud.

[...]Or prevention of Diseases in Children under seven years of [...]e, give them either the Magistery [...] the Syrup of Coral, or else Red [...]ral prepared, twice every day for [...]ree dayes together, once in a for­ [...]ight or thereabouts. Give a child [...] about four or five years old, five [...]raines of Red Coral prepared, [...]x'd with a little conserve of Bar­ [...]ries, from a knifes point in a morn­ [...]g fasting, and let the child drink [...] draught of spring-water, either [...]eetned with sugar, or alone, im­ [...]ediately after it, if it be in the [...]mmer-time; but if in the Winter, [...]hen a draught of white-Wine. Let [Page 42] him fast at least an hour, and, if can, let him exercise after it; him do the like at four in the aft [...] ­noon, and so the next day for th [...] dayes together.

Or in stead hereof he may t [...] seven grains of Magistery of Co [...] from a knifes point, mix'd with [...] pap of an Apple after the afores [...] manner, drinking wine, or wat [...] or both mix'd together, accord [...] to the season of the year, exerci [...] and fasting after it as aforesaid.

Or else he may drink half an ou [...] of syrup of Coral at a time, in w [...] or water, according to the seas [...] twice every day for three dayes [...] gether, as aforesaid.

Now although this be the w [...] and means to prevent such Dise [...] onely as are apt to breed within [...] body, yet is it also a great means strengthen Nature, to resist those [...] ther Pestilential diseases, as t [...] Measels and small Pox which co [...] from without; as also to enable t [...] [Page 43] body the better to encounter with [...]se diseases in case they should [...]pen. For doubtless the onely [...]son why, when the seeds of those [...]stilential diseases are sown in seve­ [...] bodies, some die, others languish [...]ong time, and others speedily re­ [...]er, is this, viz. because some [...]lies are of a better Crasis or Tem­ [...]ament than others. And this also [...]n undeniable truth, that the Eu­ [...]sie and Dyscrasie of all bodies, do [...]cessarily depend upon the more [...]fect or imperfect Fermentation the mass of Bloud.

And here, that not onely a rational [...]t also an experimental satisfaction [...]y be given unto all persons what­ [...]ver, concerning the efficacy of [...]ral, for prevention of Childrens [...]eases; I shall propound this fol­ [...]wing Experiment.

Give of Red Coral twice every [...]y six or seven dayes together, [...]ccording to any of those wayes be­ [...]oe mentioned, unto ten several [Page 44] children which have contract [...] some general distemper; not s [...] as may bear the denomination of a particular disease, but so as it m [...] clearly appear that they are indis [...] sed, and not perfectly well, as m [...] perhaps appear by their loss of [...] petite, by the more then ordina [...] Paleness and Wanness of their Co [...] tenance, or by other some such- [...] infallible signes and tokens; t [...] have upon them no particular [...] ease, but onely that which Phy [...] ans call a general Cachexy, that an immediate inclination or disp [...] tion unto all manner of diseases [...] say, give unto ten such Child [...] twice every day, for six or se [...] dayes together, of this Red Cor [...] according to any of those wayes b [...] fore mentioned, and you shall [...] serve (except somewhat extraor [...] nary prevent it) that scarce one these ten shall continue, to the spa [...] of those six or seven dayes, unrest [...] red unto its perfect health.

[Page 45]After that, make choice of ten [...]ore Cachectically distempered [...]hildren, but give the Coral onely [...] five; and then after a few dayes [...] shall observe the difference, and [...]t no small difference, between [...]hose unto whom you gave the Co­ [...]l, and the other. I appeal with [...]uch confidence unto any mans ex­ [...]ience, because I know it already my own experience.

I know by experience that Red [...]oral cures the Cachectical distem­ [...]rs of children, as infallibly as Steel [...]res the Green Sickness; and I [...]annot perswade my self but that [...]he effect is performed upon this [...]count. Those Cachectical distem­ [...]rs proceed from an imperfect Fer­ [...]entation: Coral Ferments; where­ [...]e by taking away the cause, it re­ [...]oveth the effect also, according to [...]at old, worn, yet true Axiome, [...]blat â causâ, tollitur effectus.

CHAP. XI. How the Diseases of those pers [...] which are above seven years [...] may be prevented by the use of St [...]

AS Coral for young Infants, Steel for all others above [...] ven years old is, if rightly made of, a great preventer of Diseases, [...] preserver of health. And amo [...] those preparations that are as [...] extant, there is none compara [...] unto that which goes under the [...] nomination of Sacharum Martis, Sugar of Steel. The use whereof to the Prophylactical or Preservat [...] part of Physick, is as followeth.

Let any healthful person drink grains of Sugar of Steel in a dra [...] of spring-water in the mor [...] fasting, exercising and fasting at [...] least an hour after it. Let him her do the like also at four in the [...] ternoon, [Page 47] and so the next day, and [...] next after that, for five or six [...]yes together. And after a months [...]ermission, the same course is to be [...]ated.

Note, this water is to be used in [...]e Summer-time, but in the Win­ [...]r the Sugar of Steel is to be dissol­ [...] in white-wine in stead of water; [...]pring time and in Autumn, water [...] wine may be mingled together.

[...]or a Boy of eight, ten, or twelve [...]s old, six, seaven or eight grains [...] be sufficient.

Now for a certain trial or proof [...] of this Sacharum Martis, or [...]ar of Steel; I offer the same [...]ner of experiment which I did [...]ncerning the Coral for young [...]ildren, that it may clearly ap­ [...] unto all persons whatsoever, [...] onely upon a rational, but also [...]n an experimental account, that [...]ar of Steel is a True and Legi­ [...]ate means to be used by any of [...]ove seven years old, for preven­tion [Page 48] of diseases, or preservation health.

Give unto several persons wh [...] are Cachectically distempered, t [...] every day, for the space of te [...] twelve dayes, of Sugar of Steel, [...] cording to the manner above m [...] tioned; and if within that space time, all or most of them shall be stored unto their perfect health cannot be denyed, but that th [...] foresaid means must needs be effe [...] al for the intent and purpose afo [...] said.

Yet I think we need not go sc [...] as this for a tryal; For let any pe [...] whatsoever, of the most abso [...] and perfect health that may be, [...] of this Sugar of Steel for ten twelve dayes together, after [...] manner aforesaid; and ten to [...] within that short space of ti [...] there will appear at the least so outward signes of health [...] strength more than formerly. I ten to one, but that his countena [...] [Page 49] be somewhat more vegete [...] lively, and that he will have [...]mewhat a quicker and sharper ap­ [...]ite to his meat.

[...] have now done with the Pro­ [...]lactical, or Preservative part of [...]sick, wherein I have, I hope, [...]en satisfaction to all those whom [...]son will satisfie, concerning the [...]acy of Coral and Steel for pre­ [...]tion of diseases. It remains in the [...]t place, that I treat of the The­ [...]eutical or Curative part.

CHAP. XII. [...]at the things not natural, are ne­ [...]essarily to be observed together with the use of Coral and Steel, for [...]he cure of diseases.

WHereas it is not onely a thing more dfficult to cure diseases [...]e contracted, than beforehand prevent them; but also a matter [Page 50] of greater consequence, because diseases unprevented, terminate one in sickness, uncured in death: [...] behooveth every Physician to [...] so careful of his Patients recove [...] from any disease, that he neglect [...] rational and probable means t [...] may serve for that intent [...] purpose.

Hence is it, that although [...] chief aim is to divulge the efficacy these two medicaments for [...] curing of diseases, which indeed [...] chiefly to be considered; yet shal [...] not be silent as touching any oth [...] additaments, or helps which may subservient unto them.

Wherefore although for g [...] reasons I have rejected all th [...] things which Physicians call not [...] tural, for prevention of diseases, [...] cept Exercise; yet for the cure diseases, it will be necessary to [...] brace them so far forth as reason [...] admit. As first, for matter of D [...] it is requisite that it be, for quant [...] [Page 51] [...]ry little or spare; and for quality, [...]h as may be easily digested, in [...]ose diseases where Nature is chiefly [...]ncerned in the conquering and [...]posing of some Morbifick matter, [...] she be called away à Pepasmo ad [...]psin, from her encounter with the [...]sease, unto the digestion of meat. [...]or is the Palate in sickness to be [...]garded, because she is then vi­ [...]ted and corrupted, disliking that [...]ich is wholesom and profitable, [...]d relishing other things which are [...]ngerous and destructive to the [...]dy. The Diet is also to be ap­ [...]opriated unto the disease, accord­ [...]g to the common experience of all [...]ysicians. As for example: flesh- [...]at is to be denyed, or at least, not freely granted in Feavers, because [...]perience teacheth that the Chyle Juice extracted by the Chymistry Nature from thence, and trans­ [...]ted into the Veins and Arteries, most obnoxious unto putrefacti­ [...]. Anchoves, Mustard, French­wine, [Page 52] and such like things of muc [...] acrimony, are by no means to b [...] given to those that have inward Ul­cers in their Bladder, Kidneys, o [...] elsewhere, because they are apt [...] excoriate and fret, and so to increa [...] and inrage the distemper. Th [...] Diet which is Analeptical or Reston [...] tive, is to be given to Consumpti [...] persons: and so for other diseases there is scarce any distemper wha [...] soever which may not in some me [...] sure be abated, by a due observatio [...] of Diet.

And as Diet, so Air also in t [...] cure of diseases is somewhat to [...] regarded: as in those disea [...] where transpiration or sweating [...] required, care is to be taken, that t [...] ambient Air be as warm as may b [...] that so the Pores may be kept op [...] & not closed too suddenly, where [...] the Morbifick matter, once atten [...] ated and enraged, may not be lock up in the body to the exasperatio [...] and increase of the disease, b [...] [Page 53] [...]radually breathed out and spent, to [...]e recovery of health.

So for sleep: Care is to be taken [...]at in Feavers and such-like Di­ [...]empers which spend the spirits, [...]at it be moderately procured to [...]fresh the body, and strengthen [...]ature to encounter with the dis­ease. Neither are the affections vio­ [...]ntly to be moved, and the minde [...]scomposed in sick and weak per­ [...]ns, by relating any thing that is [...]npleasant, or less desirable to be [...]eard. For experience teacheth, [...]at a very small commotion of the [...]inde, hath great influence upon a [...]ck and weak body; whereas great [...]oubles and discontents do very [...]tle or no hurt unto the bodies of [...]ose persons that are in perfect [...]ealth.

Having premised this in the gene­ [...]l, I shall now descend to particu­ [...]rs, and discourse first of the Effi­ [...]cy of Steel in the cure of Diseases, [Page 54] then afterwards Analogically to [...] upon the Coral also.

Some Diseases there are whi [...] Steel doth both prevent and cure, [...] the Green Sickness, the Spleen, Scu [...] ­vey, Jaundies, Mother, Go [...] Consumption, Ague, Stone, Flu [...] Dropsie, Strangury.

Although it doth prevent, y [...] doth it scarcely cure continual Fe [...] vers, and the Epilepsie, or falli [...] Sickness. And although it do [...] prevent, yet doth it not cure [...] Apoplexy. As to the French d [...] ease, it doth neither prevent nor cu [...] it; yet is it useful for this, and [...] others, as shall appear in the sequel [...] my discourse. I shall treat of the Distempers in the same order as have propounded them; as first [...] the Green Sickness, then of th [...] Spleen, Scurvey, Jaundies, &c. a [...] they are here above described.

CHAP. XIII. [...]f the Cure of the Green Sickness, by the use of Steel.

THe Green Sickness is a distem­per peculiar unto young Maids, [...]hich renders them listless and loath [...] stir; which makes them in their [...]e or countenance squalid, and less [...]andsome, of a pale and greenish [...]olour, from whence it hath the [...]enomination of Green Sickness.

It proceeds from the defect of [...]ermentation of the Mass of bloud, [...]e Liver and Spleen not performing [...]heir office according to the intent [...]f Nature.

It is cured onely by the use of [...]ugar of Steel. Give the Patient [...]wenty grains of Sugar of Steel in a [...]raught of spring-water in the morn­ [...]ng fasting, and as much at four [...] in [...]he afternoon, for the space of ten [Page 56] or twelve dayes together, and [...] her every time exercise very w [...] after it. And in case her distemp [...] be such that she have not her Mens [...] let her continue taking the san [...] quantity at the least twice so long [...] and let a vein be opened in the le [...] foot, to the evacuation of eight o [...] nine ounces.

It is here worth our observatio [...] to take notice how this Sugar o [...] Steel drank in a draught of spring-water twice every day, with exercis [...] after it for a fornights space, doth beautifie and enliven the counte­nance, not onely of those who have the Green Sickness, but of other [...] also, insomuch that there are scarce any who look so well, but by taking of it will appear in their counte­nance much better, livelier and clearer then before. A thing which may in it self signifie the wholesom­ness of the Medicament.

Certainly were many of our Gal­lants in this City advertised of this, [Page 57] [...]ey would lay by all their Un­ [...]ents, Paints, and Washes, which [...]n at the best afford them but an [...]rtificial hue, and would betake [...]emselves wholly unto this Sugar [...] Steel, whereby, besides the be­ [...]efit and advantage of health, they [...]ight gain a clear, lively, beco­ [...]ing, amiable, natural complexi­ [...]n.

CHAP. XIV. [...]ow Steel conduceth to the cure of the Spleen.

THere are several Distempers ari­sing from the Spleen. Know [...]herefore for distinctions sake, That [...]y the disease called the Spleen, I [...]nderstand both the swelling of the [...]pleen, which is accompanied with [...]iolent pain, by reason of the va­ [...]ours distending those Nervous Fi­ [...]res which are in the body of the [Page 58] Milt or Spleen, as also those Hyp [...] condriack Vapours which are fro [...] thence dispersed, which fuming [...] into the Head disturb and disco [...] pose the Brain, which suffocate a [...] almost stop the breath▪ beside e [...] tream pain, and some other troublesome and pernicious symptomes.

CHAP. XV. How Steel may be used for the cure of the Scurvy.

THe Scurvey is a disease proceed­ing from the putrifaction of the bloud, which putrefaction hath its original from the defect of Fermen­tation. For those particles in the mass of blood, which are not by Fer­mentation embodied with the rest, must needs act their particular parts upon the body; they must needs ei­ther excoriate, obstruct, or pu­trifie, &c. according to their diffe­rent qualities. From whence it is an easie thing to conceive, how a diversity of diseases may be produ­ced [Page 63] in humane bodies, from one and [...]he same original, viz. from an im­perfect Fermentation of the mass of bloud.

The symptomes of that disease which is called the Scurvey, are pains in several parts of the body, especially in the Calfes of the Leggs and Thighs; and sometimes Spots also in several parts, especially in the Leggs and Thighs. A weariness and loathness to stir. An itching in the Gums, and looseness of the Teeth.

Let the Patient drink twenty Grains of Sugar of Steel in the morning fasting in a draught of White-Wine, exercising very well after it; and as much at Four in the Afternoon after the same manner, fo [...] the space of Six or Seven Dayes. After that, let him sweat after this manner following.

In a Morning fasting, after he hath made himself as hot as he can with good store of Cloaths, and by put­ting his Head into the Bed, give him [Page 64] the Liquor of Forty small Oysters wherein Twenty Oysters have bee [...] boyled, as hot as he shall be able to drink it. And so let him Sweat very well after it, drinking a draught o [...] clear White-Wine Posset-drink very hot, now and then, during the time of his sweating. After this, if occa­sion be, he may repeat his taking of Sugar of Steel, after the manner a­bove mentioned, and so after that sweat again as formerly.

CHAP. XVI. Of the use of Steel, in the Cure of the Jaundise.

THe Jaundise is a Disease well known by the Yellowness of the Skin, which is commonly first disco­vered in the Eyes, which oftentimes produceth Pain and Dizziness in the Head, want of Appetite and Digesti­on, with some other symptomes. [Page 65] [...] is caused by a thick and viscous hu­ [...]our, which obstructeth that passage, [...]hich is called, Meatus choledo­ [...]us, the Chanel or Passage through [...]hich the Yellow Choler, contain­ [...]d in the Vesicula fellea, or Bladder [...]f the Gall, according to the course [...]f Nature is transmitted from [...]ence into the Intestines. For when [...]at passage is obstructed, the Yel­ [...]w Choler is thrown out into the [...]ass of bloud, by the same way that [...] was first conveyed into the Blad­ [...]er of the Gall; even as when the [...]ylorus, or lower Orifice of the [...]tomack is stopt, that which was in­ [...]ested, is oftentimes thrown up by [...]omiting the contrary way. Now [...]hen the Yellow Choler is thrown [...]p out of the Bladder of the Gall [...]to the mass of bloud, and Nature [...]tending alwayes, when she is able, [...]o purge and cleanse the bloud of its [...]xrements by Urine and Sweat; [...]ence it is, that both the Urine [...]d Skin do receive the yellow­ness [Page 66] and tincture of the Chole [...]

To say nothing, how this visco [...] humour proceeds from the want o [...] Fermentation, the cure is chiefe perform'd by Steel, although pe [...] haps sometimes there may be occ [...] sion to make use of somewhat else, [...] subservient unto it.

There is that which is called th [...] Black, as well as the Yellow Jaun [...] clise, which proceeds from som [...] matter thrown out from the Splee [...] into the mass of bloud, even as th [...] Yellow doth from some of the matter contained in the Gall.

The Black Jaundise is cured b [...] the onely use of Steel in manner fo [...] lowing. Give the Patient Twenty Grains of Suga [...] of Steel, in a draugh [...] of White Wine in the Morning Fasting, and as much after the sam [...] manner at Four in the Afternoon for ten dayes together.

Let the like be done also for th [...] Yellow Jaundise, except that th [...] White-Wine, wherein the Steel is t [...] [Page 67] [...] dissolved, is first to be coloured [...]th Saffron.

Or else, let the Patient take the [...]antity of a Nutmeg of this Electu­ [...]y following from a Knifes point [...]ery Morning Fasting, drinking Ten [...]rains of Sugar of Steel in a draught [...] White Wine after it, and as much Four in the Afternoon, after the [...]me manner for Ten or Twelve [...]yes together.

CHAP. XVII. How Steel conduceth to the Cure [...] the Mother.

THe Mother is a distemper peculiar unto Women, whos [...] symptomes are hinderance o [...] the exercise of the Animal Faculties by Fits or Paroxysmes; as also [...] hinderance of Respiration: which symptomes are caused by Vapours ascending from the Mother, o [...] Wombe. The Vapours ascendin [...] to the Brain, do hinder the exercis [...] of the Animal Faculties, and withal [...] elevating and raising the Matrix o [...] Wombe, so that there is a com­pression made upon the Diaphrag­ma; they do also hinder Respi­ration.

It is a distemper easilier prevented than cured; and easilier cured at the first, than afterwards, when the [Page 69] [...]apours have for some time been [...]bituated to ascend. For then up­ [...] every small commotion or distur­ [...]nce of the mind, they are apt to [...]end and cause the Paroxysme; [...]is is too well known by experience, [...]hich verifies that Maxime, Habi­ [...]s est qualitas difficulter mobilis.

Therefore by how much the longer [...]e distemper hath continued, so [...]uch the longer time must the Steel [...]e used. Give the Patient 15 grains [...]f Sugar of Steel in a draught of [...]pring-water every morning fasting, [...]nd as much at four in the afternoon [...]ter the same manner, for twenty [...]ayes together: she may take it a [...]nger time proportionably to the [...]ontinuance of the disease; or else [...]termit twenty dayes, and then [...]ke it other twenty.

Here we may note that this Medi­ [...]ament is the most apposite and fit [...]r this disease, of any that can be [...]iven, both in respect of the Water, [...]nd of the Steel. Water hath a [Page 70] natural propriety to allay vapou [...] and Steel hath a faculty of procuri [...] that which is called Deorsum t [...] dentia, a motion downwards; bo [...] which are required in the cure [...] this disease. Hence it is that [...] onely water, but every thing e [...] that is apt to allay vapours, is kno [...] by experience to be good for th [...] distemper; and on the contrar [...] things apt to raise vapours to b [...] hurtful. So are all other things besides Steel which are apt to make motion downward, known by e [...] perience to be good; as the taki [...] Tobacco, the burning of Feather [...] the smoak of Assa-Foetida, and [...] other stinking smells; the fume [...] Benjamin, Storax, and Franki [...] cense, receiv'd up into the body, a [...] suck-like.

How the Steel performs this effe [...] of making a motion downward whether it be by its Elementa [...] form, or some other Specifick qu [...] lity, and by what means the wat [...] [Page 71] [...]oth produce its effect of allaying [...]pours, it is not in this place to [...]ntrovert.

CHAP. XVIII. Of the Cure of the Gout by Steel.

THe Gout is an extream pain in the joynts, caused by an hu­ [...]our setling there and sometimes [...]ntrefying, whereby the Tendons, [...]hich are exquisitely sensible, are [...]stended.

The matter setling and residing in [...]e joynts, is the Seminifick or Sper­ [...]atick part of the bloud: hence it is [...]at Eunuchs, Women, and those that [...]re under Age, are seldom or never [...]oubled with this disease.

CHAP. XIX. Of the use of Steel in the Cure of Consumption.

A Consumption is truly and pr [...] perly an Ulcer in the Lung [...] which by putrifying and spreadi [...] doth waste and consume the Lungs although generally it is taken for a [...] kind of Languishing and Consumi [...] of the Body. It is of all disease considering the time that the Phy [...] tian hath to turn himself in, the m [...] difficult to be cured; therefore th [...] greater care is to be taken in th [...] cure of this disease, that nothing [...] omitted which may in any sort co [...] tribute to the benefit of the P [...] tient.

It is bred of a putrid, and also o [...] sharp humour in the Mass of blou [...] (which humours continue such [...] want of Fermentation) therefo [...] [Page 75] [...]l things that do add either to Acri­ [...]ony or Putrefaction must needs be [...]urtful, Et vice versâ.

For the cure of this disease, there [...] first a regard to be had unto those [...]hings which are called not natural, [...] Air, Diet, Sleep, the Passions of [...]he Mind, Exercise. As for Air; [...]lthough, considered in it self in re­ [...]ect of the Climate, it is not easily [...]o be distinguished whether it be [...]etter or worse for the preservation [...]f health, seeing that many of all [...]onstitutions are very healthful in [...]ny manner of Air; yet certain it is [...]hat the Air may be better'd by Art, [...]nd corrupted by accident; witness [...]hat sad accident which many years [...]nce, happened unto one Mr. Smith [...]nd his Family. Mr. Smith, the [...]own-clerk of Grantham, together [...]ith his Wife, Maid-servant and [...]wo Children, were all in one night [...]ereaved of life, by reason of the [...]r vitiated through vapours arising [...]om Charcoal; removing unto a [Page 76] new house to dwell, having its wal [...] new limed and not throughly dried to correct the dampness of the ai [...] they placed a Pan of Charcoal [...] the Room, and having close shut th [...] Doors, they went all to bed, and i [...] the morning were found all dead.

Now seeing that the Air may b [...] accident be so corrupted, as in [...] short a time to make so great a [...] alteration, as from health to death much more may it be so vitiated a [...] in continuance of time, in Chronical and Languishing diseases, in som [...] measure to increase the disease. Tha [...] which either in the Air or ought else is most apt to increase that diseas [...] which is truly and properly called Consumption, is either Acrimony or else Putrefaction. Acrimo [...] cannot subsist in the Air, being [...] thing much different from its El [...] mentary form. For we are to understand by Acrimony, matter consisting of Angular Atoms; but [...] Air, matter consisting of Spheric [...] Atoms.

[Page 77]It remaines then that whatsoever [...] the Air may be hurtful unto this [...]sease, must needs be Putrefaction: [...]nd indeed the Air is as much Ob­ [...]oxious unto Putrefaction, as any [...]ther thing whatsoever. Now [...]hereas Air may be either more or [...]ess putrid, it must be either better [...]r worse for this disease.

We are therefore to enquire into [...]he quality of the Air, in this re­ [...]pect, and consider what Air is more [...]r less putrid. And this experience [...]ath taught, that in populous places, [...]n great Cities which are continually [...]equented with a great multitude [...]f people, the Air is most of all [...]utrid; 'tis probable it becomes so [...]y reason of the breaths of many [...]eople putrifying, or else from that [...]utrid matter which is continually [...]hrown out of their bodies by Tran­spiration, either sensible or insen­sible.

That the Air is most putrid in populous places, it can be Demon­strated [Page 78] by no better an experiment, than by the corruption of any kinde of flesh. The Butchers all know by experience, that any kinde of flesh-meat, is sooner putrified and cor­rupted in the City, than in the [...] Countrey; which must needs be through the putrefaction of the Air. It is therefore expedient for all Consumptive persons, who dwell in the City, or any close place amongst many people, to remove into a more open Air, that the cure of their disease be not hindered by reason of the Air.

The next thing to be regarded is Diet, which is subject not onely to putrefaction, but also unto Acrimo­ny or sharpness, whereby such a Juice may be conveyed into the mass of bloud, as may by fretting, and corroding, exulcerate the Lungs. Wherefore Salt, although it resist putrefaction, yet because it is apt to corrode, is hurtful; and so are all things sharp or sowre. So is Stale-Beer, [Page 79] and Ale, if it lye long in the [...]omack, because by that means it is [...]ftentimes made sowre. But if Ale, [...]hich hath as yet contracted no [...]wreness, be drank very Warm, so [...]at it may immediately be convey­ [...]d into the Veins and Arteries, by [...]eason of its lenifying quality, it must [...]eeds be profitable. The much use [...]f Bread is also very wholesome, by [...]eason, not onely of its lenifying qua­ [...]ty, but also in that it is apt to re­ [...]st putrefaction. Flesh-meat is [...]urtful, especially in the City, be­ [...]ause there it doth soonest putrefie. [...]dence it is, that the City-Air is to be [...]voided, not onely in respect of it [...]elf, but also in regard of the Diet which it is too apt to corrupt.

As for Sleep; it is also in this disease moderately to be procured: Not onely because it doth recruit the spirits, but also in that it doth [...]etund the sharpness of humours, and stop the motion of the Catarrhe, [...]or descent of Rheume upon the [Page 80] Lungs. Hence it is, that experience also teacheth that those things whic [...] procure sleep, if discreetly used, an [...] in this disease beneficial; as Diaco­dium, and Opium in Pil. è Styrac [...] and in Pil. de Cynoglosso.

And so for the Passions of th [...] minde, the Patient is in this diseas [...] to be pleased as much as may be; be­cause by inward discontent, the pu­trid matter is lock'd up in the breast, which Nature alwaies intends to expel, as much as she is able, by transpiration.

For this end is Exercise also, if possibly it may, moderately to be [...] used. Exercise is in it self, the best Diaphoretick, or incentive to trans­piration: and certain it is, that Na­ture alwaies intends by transpirati­on to clear the mass of bloud of its putrefaction. Hence it is that the matter breath'd out from many bodies by sensible sweat, is so Fetid or stinking.

Having premised thus much, I [Page 81] [...]m now to shew the efficacy of Steel [...]or the cure of this Disease. Herein [...] shall consider those two cause of [...]his Disease, viz. Acrimony and pu­ [...]refaction of the mass of bloud, part or severally; and first of Acrimony.

That sharpness of humours, fret­ [...]ing and corroding the Lungs, is [...]ome cause of this distemper, it may sufficiently appear by those things which do cure, or at least, palliate the disease; things which are Na­turally apt to retund, lenifie, or asswage Acrimony. Such are mild Ale, New-Milk sweetned with Su­gar; the Liquor of Snailes made into a Syrup, with White-Sugar-Candy, and Snailes boyled in Milke.

Now that Steel is also endued with a faculty of lenifying sharp hu­mours, it may appear by this follow­ing experiment. Put an Ounce or two of the filings of Steel into a Glass-Bottle, unto which put a Pint of very sharp Vinegar, or Juice of [Page 82] Lemmons: let them be together two dayes, and now and then shak'd up; and in that time, the Vinegar o [...] Juice of Lemmons shall have put of all its sowreness, and shall become in a manner insipid.

That some putrid matter in the mass of bloud, is a cause of this di­stemper, may also appear by other things resisting putrefaction, which palliate the disease; as the Powder of Red-Rose Leaves, and the Juice of Turneps bak'd, &c. And that Steel doth resist putrefaction, may appear by this, in that the Water wherein Sugar of Steel is put will not putrefie.

To say nothing of the Sanative or healing faculty of Steel, as also of its Fermenting power, by reason of both; which reason will also admit, that Steel may be a legitimate Me­dicament for this disease, I appeal unto the experience of those per­sons, that shall rightly use it.

CHAP. XX. How all manner of Agues may be effectually cured by the use of Steel.

FEavers are usually distinguish'd into putrid and Pestilential, and putrid Feavers into continual and intermitting. An intermitting pu­trid Feaver, is that which we call in English, an Ague. To say nothing of the several kindes of Agues, passing under several denominations; as Quotidian, Tertian, Quartain, Double Tertian, &c. it will be sufficient to shew the Quiddity, or nature of an Ague in general, from its cause and symptomes, by which means also the particularities and differences may be easily dis­cerned.

Besides, sometimes illness at the Stomack, and Vomiting, Thirstiness, pain in the Head, and in the Back [Page 91] and other parts; the common sym­tomes of an Ague, are first Cold, [...]en afterwards Burning, which are [...]used by some Particles of the mass [...] bloud, at that time actually pu­ [...]efying.

What Fermentation is, I have al­ready described in the Eighth Chap­ [...]er. Now we must know, that Pu­ [...]efaction, I mean the Act of Putre­ [...]ing, is to be conceiv'd, in some sort, [...]ontrary unto the Act of Fermen­ [...]ng. It is Fermentation revers'd, [...]z. a resolution of some Homoge­ [...]eous, matter into particles of a [...]ifferent nature: Even as when a [...]ell-governed Commonwealth doth [...]issolve and break into an Anarchy. Whereas Fermentation and Putre­ [...]ction do agree in one common [...]enus, viz. Motion; they produce [...]e common effect, viz. Heat, [...]hich is a natural product of all and very kinde of Motion. But as the [...]otion of either is very much [...]fferent and distinct from each [Page 92] other, so is the Heat also resulting from either divers. The result o [...] Fermentation is a Natural, but o [...] Putrefaction a Preternatural Hea [...] Now whereas the Act of Putrefying is a contrary Motion unto that o [...] Fermenting, it cannot be that the [...] both can subsist together in the mas [...] of bloud, after an intense manne [...] at the same time: According to that common Maxime, Duo contraria non possunt simul esse in eodem subjectio. Hence it is, that before there can be an intense Act of Putre­fying, there must needs be a cessatio [...] of the Act of Fermenting. So tha [...] as the motion of Putrefying, doth be­get a Preternatural Heat in the body, which is called the Burning or Hot Fit; even so, the cessatio [...] of the Motion of Fermenting, must needs before that, produce anothe [...] Fit as Gold as that is Hot.

The cause of this distemper i [...] commonly both inward and out­ward: the inward cause is either [Page 93] some putrid matter gradually col­lected, or else a disposition of some particles in the mass of bloud to pu­refie. The outward cause is com­monly cold, preventing Transpira­ [...]ion, and so by consequence hinder­ [...]ng, or at least retarding Fermenta­ [...]ion. For by one individual act of [...]ermentation, we are to suppose [...]hat all the Offices of Nature are performed, amongst the which, this [...]s not the least, viz. That there is [...]roduc'd continually either a sensible [...]r insensible Transpiration. Now [...]s in the motion of a Clock or En­ [...]in where several Wheels move from [...]ne and the same Original cause, the [...]rresistible stopping of one Wheel doth hinder the first cause from act­ing; So is it with the Clock-work [...]f Nature in all humane bodies: The cessation of any one Office of Nature, which although it have its [...]ependance upon Fermentation, yet [...]ay it be a means to hinder or at [...]east retard it.

[Page 94]According as either the put [...] matter collected is more or less, [...] the disposition of some Particles [...] the mass of bloud to putrefie [...] greater or less, a stronger or weak [...] outward cause, may give an occa [...] ­on to this distemper. An inwar [...] cause without some outward, do [...] seldom produce this disease; b [...] oftentimes a strong outward caus [...] when there is no inward cause at al [...] doth produce it; As many perso [...] who have no putrid matter, nor an [...] disposition in the humours of the [...] bodies to putrefaction, onely tha [...] which they call, Potentia Naturali [...] a Natural power which all men hav [...] by some strong outward cause, a cold baths or such-like, do get Ague [...] And such Agues so contracted, [...] they continue long, are altogether [...] dangerous as others.

For such is the nature of an Agu [...] that it doth of it self produce Mo [...] bisick matter for other diseases, [...] though perhaps when it is first beg [...] [Page 95] [...] may have no Morbifick matter of [...]s own. An Ague is an habit, and [...]ach fit thereof an act of putrefy­ [...]g; so that putrefaction or putrid [...]atter in the mass of bloud, is the [...]roduct of all Agues, which, if af­ [...]er every fit it be not vented by [...]weat and Urine, must continue in [...]he body as Morbifick matter for [...]ome other distempers, whether that [...]gue was at the first chiefly produc'd [...]y an Internal or External cause.

The way and means to cure this [...]isease, is to strengthen the habit of [...]ermenting, and to weaken the ha­ [...]it of putrefying in the body of the [...]atient; both which may be effe­ [...]tually perform'd by the use of [...]teel.

Give the Patient twenty grains of [...]ugar of Steel in a draught of Spring-water every morning fasting, [...]nd as much at four in the afternoon, [...]xercising very well after it, for ten [...]r twelve dayes together; and if in [...]hat time his Ague be not gone, [Page 96] endeavour to prevent in him th [...] cessation of Fermentation, by gi [...] ving him two drams of Sugar o [...] Steel at once, in a draught of posset [...] drink two or three hours before h [...] cold fit: this perhaps may make hi [...] vomit once or twice, however i [...] doth usually continue the habit [...] Fermentation, and by consequenc [...] prevent the cold fit, which is cause [...] by the cessation of Fermentation and so cure his Ague: for experience teacheth, that whensoever th [...] cold fit is prevented, the Ague i [...] cured; Because, as I said before there cannot be a suddain and violen [...] or intense act of putrefying, excep [...] there be first a cessation of the act o [...] Fermenting: so that to continue [...] habit of Fermentation, is the way and means to cure an Ague.

And this is the reason why Strong water and Peper, and other ho [...] things of several kinds, both Actual and Potential, being given som [...] ­time before the cold fit, do ofte [...] [Page 97] times cure an Ague. And the reason why those things which do some­ [...]imes cure, do also sometimes fail, [...] this, viz. Because the habits of [...]ermenting and Putrefying are in [...]ome bodies more Intense or Remiss, [...]han in othersome. Now that there [...]ay be no uncertainty in the cure of [...]his disease, which is called Oppro­ [...]rium Medicorum, the Physitians [...]ame; It is best by the use of Steel [...]radually to strengthen the habit of [...]ermenting, and to weaken the ha­ [...]it of Putrefying first, before any [...]ndeavour be done to cure this dis­ [...]se by preventing the cold fit, [...]used by the cessation of Fermen­ [...]tion.

And because that in Quartan A­ [...]es, the habit of Putrefying is not [...] soon weakened as in others, be­ [...]use it is there seated in a tougher [...]umour; it will not be amiss to give [...]e Patient his Sugar of Steel in Sack [...]ther than in water, or at the least [...] advise him to drink Sack very [Page 98] often. For it is known by experi­ence, that the much drinking of Sack, doth in a great measure help those that labour of Quartan A­gues; probably because the Sack embodying it self with the humour, doth abate its toughness.

Now suppose there may be some Quartan Ague, especially in the Winter-time, which notwithstand­ing these means, may yet remain uncured: Yet must the Patient needs receive great benefit by the use of Steel, in that it opens the pores, and provoketh Urine, where­by the Morbifick matter, generated by the Quartan, for other diseases may by Urine and Sweat be carried out of the body.

CHAP. XXI. How Steel may conduce to the Cure of the Stone.

THe Stone is a disease Obnoxious unto all manner of persons whatsoever, both Men, Women, and Children. I my self have taken out of the Bladder of a Boy of [...]bout eight or nine years of age, a [...]tone of the bigness of a Hens Egg.

Stones are bred either in the Blad­ [...]er or the Kidneys, of Gravel and [...]ough Flegme, and gradually aug­ [...]ented oftentimes unto a very great signess, especially in the Bladder, which are either smooth, or else [...]gged and sharp, according as one [...]f those two Materials, whereof [...]hey are generated, viz. Gravel or [...]legme, is predominant. The smooth [...]tones in the Bladder are generated [...]hiefly of Flegm, which oftentimes [Page 100] lying upon the Neck of the Bladder, and couching close unto it, do in­jury to the body by stopping the passage of the Urine.

The ragged and sharp Stones in the Bladder, are bred of a greater quantity of Gravel than Flegme; which oftentimes by their roughness and sharpness, do excoriate and fret the Neck of the Bladder, which is most exquisitely sensible, whereby the Patient is tortured with ex­tream pain.

That a Stone of the greatest big­ness may possibly be dissolved, it is without all controversie; for expe­rience hath taught, that many who have been much tormented with the Stone, after they have had several [...] pieces of Stone com'd away with their Urine, have been perfectly well. Besides, reason will very well admit, that whatsoever by accident is generated in the body, may [...] well be corrupted and dissolv'd; according to that Maxime, Qu [...] oritur moritur.

[Page 101]This, even as all other distempers, may be effectually cured, if the cause can be removed. All effects must necessarily cease, when their cause is once taken away. If that sharp Urine, apt to produce gravel, im­pregnated with a viscous matter, can have its acrimony and viscosity abated, it will then sooner dissolve, than before it did produce a Stone. Now it is well known by experience, that Steel hath a faculty, both to attenuate Flegm, and to lenifie sharp humours; wherefore it can­not be otherwise, but that Steel must needs be a fit Remedy for this Distemper.

Give the Patient Ten Grains of Sugar of Steel in a Morning Fasting, and as much at Four in the After­noon, in a draught of Spring-water, for a Moneth together, and let him Exercise after it if he be able.

As for his Diet, let him by all means abstrain from New Bread and [...]tale Beer. Let him abstain also from [Page 102] Cheese, and all manner of Fish, ex­cept Shell-Fish, of which let him eat as often as he will. To drink New Whay often, may be very pro­fitable for him.

CHAP. XXII. Of the stopping of all manner of Fluxes, by the use of Steel.

THe word Flux, is a general and comprehensive term, whereby is signified, any violent and suddain evacuation of humours of what kinde soever, as well the overflowing of the Months in Women, and the immoderate bleeding at the Nose, as those Fluxes of the Belly, viz. Li­enteria, Dysenteria and Tenesmus; for all which, there is not a more Soveraign Remedy than Steel, and that upon a rational account. For whether any Flux may proceed from Putrefaction, or from sharp­ness [Page 103] of humours, or from both, 'tis [...]ot not material, as to any impedi­ment in the Steel to perform the Cure; seeing that Steel, as you may [...]ead above in the Nineteenth Chap­ [...]er, doth both resist Putrefaction, and lenifie sharp humours. And besides, that it doth also very much strengthen the Bowels, the weakness whereof is sometimes the cause of some Fluxes of the Belly, it may ap­pear by that quick and sharp appe­ [...]ite which it causeth in all that [...]ake it.

CHAP. XXIII. How a Dropsie may be Cured by Steel.

A Dropsie is a collection of the more serous and watry part of the Mass of bloud, from the Veins and Arteries, into several parts of the body, caused through the want of excretion of that watrish humour by Urine and sweat, through the Pores and Ureters. When this [Page 106] watrish moisture is extravassated from the Veins and Arteries, and dif­fused throughout the whole body, i [...] is called, Anasarea; when it is collect­ed in the Abdomen, it is called Asci­ [...]es; when in the Abdomen, and mixt with Flatulency, Tympanites But however it is distinguished by several denominations, the general cause of all is want of Fermentation. For this we are to suppose, that i [...] there were a just Fermentation o [...] the Mass of bloud, there would no [...] be those obstructions in the Pore [...] and Ureters, for that serous humou [...] to be lock'd up in the body, which ought to be excluded.

CHAP. XXIV. Of the use of Steel in the Cure of the Strangury, or Pissing by Drops.

THe word Strangury, signifies in its Original, nothing else but a Pissing by Drops. It is a disease in the Bladder, incident to Aged peo­ple and Flegmatick persons, when the Neck of the Bladder through flegme is so obstructed, that the Urine cannot pass. It is effectually cured by Steel, that great Attenu­atour of Flegm and Viscous hu­mours.

CHAP. XXV. That Steel doth carry away the Re­liques of those Diseases which it doth not Cure.

ALthough there are some Dis­eases which Steel doth rather Prevent than Cure, yet is it useful also in the perfecting and finishing of the Cure even of such Diseases. A Disease cannot truly and properly be said to be perfectly cured, until the Reliques of that Disease be quite removed out of the body. And for removing of the Reliques of Dis­eases, I know no better way than to provoke Urine, and to procure a moderate Transpiration; both which are done by the use of Steel. I deny not but that purging Physick may and ought to be given, to such per­sons who in the time of their health were naturally soluble, for the re­moving [Page 111] of the Reliques of Diseases. But, as I shew'd before in the fourth Chapter concerning Excretion, Na­ture doth not primarily intend to separate Excrementitious matter from the Mass of bloud, by siege or stool, but by Sweat and Urine; so that solubility of body is but a shift of Nature, when the Ureters and Pores are obstructed, as you may see more at large in the 4 Chap. As therefore the way to preserve health, is to take care rather that the Pores and Urinatory passages be kept o­pen, than that the belly be loose; Even so is the same care to be taken for the Restitution of Health, and Restauration of Strength when the violence of a Feaver is once over. Now as in the time of the violence of a Feaver (I speak of a putrid Feaver) the Physitian is constrain'd to imitate Nature in her shifts, in using Clysters for the Evacuation of that matter, which cannot at that time be carried out of the Body by [Page 112] Urine and Sweat; so afterwards when that violent act of Putrifying, which is Fermentation revers'd, is past, he is much more to Imitate Nature in that which she doth pri­marily intend, by taking away the Reliques of the Disease after the order and course of Nature, by the Pores and Ureters, which victori­ous Nature after the conquest of the Disease, hath in some measure open­ed for that intent and purpose.

And as for the taking away of the Reliques of Feavours, Steel which is good to prevent them, is necessa­ry; So is it also altogether as useful and necessary for the taking away the Reliques of that Disease where­in it is not at all concern'd, either to prevent or cure; I mean the French disease. For certain tryal and proof hereof, I appeal to the Experience of those that have been imperfectly cured of that Disease, whether up­on some Intemperance, or cold ta­king, they are not sensible of some [Page 113] returns of their disease. Now seeing that those things which breed other diseases, are a means to recruit this disease when it is imperfectly cured; it followeth by a necessary conse­quence, that whatsoever doth gene­rally prevent and cure other di­stempers, must carry away the re­liques of this. Besides, there is no disease whatsoever, but Nature doth in some measure strive against it; and although Nature may not of her self be able to cure it, yet when it is almost cured, she may be able to perform what remains. Now 'tis well known that Steel doth very much strengthen Nature in all her Offices, in opening the Pores and U­ [...]eters, and all other obstructed passa­ges, in lenifyng sharp humours, in at­ [...]enuating others that are viscous and thick, in putting a good consistence upon the Mass of bloud, &c. all which it doth effectually perform, by that one individual Act of Fer­mentation.

CHAP. XXVI. How Coral may be used for the curing of diseases in young Infants.

HAving discoursed of the effica­cy of Steel, for the Cure of diseases in all persons above seven years old, I am now to Treat of Red Coral for the distempers of In­fants. But because the distempers of Infants are not so distinct from each other, as that they can receive so many several denominations, as the diseases of those that are Adult; I cannot be so distinct in my Dis­course: I shall therefore by one Case onely represent the vertue of Red Coral for the cure of Childrens diseases. Certainly Nature is much more industrious in attempting of her self, the cure of distempers in young Children than in others; be­cause, in young Children she seldom suffers the disease to come to that [Page 115] height, whereby it can receive any certain denomination (except in the Small-Pox, Measells, Rickets and Convulsions) before she is endea­vouring to cure it, by throwing out the Morbifick-matter by the In­ [...]estines, when she cannot prevent the disease by throwing the same matter out, as it first gathers, by the Pores and Ureters. Now whereas Coral doth as much conduce to the cure of Childrens diseases, as Steel doth to the cure of others, al­though the disease fall under no par­ticular denomination, but hath one­ [...]y one general appearance from se­veral causes; yet may it be sufficient [...]o shew the use of Coral in this one Case for all.