TRACT I. THE Antiquity and Dignity OF PHYSICK.

COncerning the time when Physick first began to be in use and practice, and who it was that first exercised this Art, is not so clearly determined by ancient Writers, who varying in thier Opinions, I shall not positively assert the time when first it began, not the person using it; but this we may believe upon good grounds, that Physick was in use soon after the Crea­tion. Medicine God created for the use of man, as Sacred Writ does testifie. Altissimus creavit medicinam de terra, Eccles. 38. & vir prudens non abhorrebit illam. And [Page 2]having so great an Author to appoint it we need not doubt, nay, who dare que­stion the excellency of it. Artis medicae Seminaria Divina sunt & Deum ipsum au­torem habent, Noct. Med. sayes Freitagius.

Whether Adam used. Medicine is not recorded, but that he knew the nature of all the Creatures, and therein the medicinal vertues of all things is most probable to believe, being comprehend­ed in the perfection of his nature and ex­quisite knowledge; and since that Me­dicine was created for man's infirmities to which he was subject after the fall; we may conclude upon very good rea­son, that the use of Medicine was not long after, it being made known unto Adam for the relief of mankind in his in­firmities, to which he was subject by his lapsed nature: and that it was in use and esteem amongst the Patriarchs, the know­ledge of which being propagated and delivered from Adam to his posteritie: from whence some are perswaded, that Physitians were not in being before the Sick; nor the Sick before Physitians, but both Coaetaneous, had their being in the world together, having so necessary a relation and dependance one upon the other.

Joseph when he came to be great and made Ruler over the Land of Egypt, he had his domestick Physitians: and when Jacob died, Joseph commanded his Physi­tians to imbalm his Father, and they did so, as you may see it recorded in the 50 Chapter of Genesis. And in all ages since in the most knowing parts of the world, it hath been the Custom with Emperours, Kings and Princes, to have Physitians attending their persons, living honourably in the favour of their great Masters, respected in their Courts, and increasing in wealth.

That Medicine and Physitians have been in esteem, and accounted a Blessing to a People, Sacred Scripture does suf­ficiently inform you in several places: the Prophet Ezekiel commending and set­ting forth the Holy Land, reckons up the Commodities of certain Trees, the Fruit whereof was appointed for Food, and the Leaves for Medicine, Ezekiel Chap. 47. so that Physick is a great Bles­sing, and to be accounted a necessary provision for a Countrey as well as food: and Physitians have been accounted so necessary, that the People had these in great esteem in all ages, as sacred and prophane History do testifie.

Nay, you will find a Precept for it, and that you are commanded so to do: honour the Physitian with the honour due unto him, Eccles. 38. so the Chapter begins, and verse the 12. Then give place to the Physitian for the Lord hath created him: Let him not go from thee, for thou hast need of him. Prophane History abundantly furnisheth us with relations and examples of the Preferments, Priviledges, vast Rewards, Riches, Fame and Honou­rable esteem of Physitians, but I shall pass that by now.

The study of Physick hath been of such esteem, and so worthily accounted, that Kings and Princes have delighted in it, and have been diligent searchers after Medicines, as credible Authors do testi­fie, and some of their own works do manifest the same, recorded and pre­served both for use, and patterns to imi­tate, for the following ages.

King Solomon that wise and wealthy Monarch, was most excellent in the knowledge of Physick, knowing the na­ture of all Plants from the Cedar to the Hyssop, nor was his knowledge bound­ed here; but also he knew the nature of all Birds, Beasts, and Fishes, and was the greatest Phylosopher after Adam: and [Page 5]had not the works of Solomon unhappily been burnt in Jerusalem by Nabusaradan, as Historians report, but preserved for the use of succeeding generations, our labours now had been less, and our suc­cess greater and more frequent. By such Casualties as these, mortality of famous men, and the loss of their works, all Arts and Learning have had their ri­sings & settings; sometimes shining bright and perspicuous; in the following age under a Cloud perhaps.

The ingeny and indefatigable labours of some industrious men promote and advance all Sciences and Arts, set up the Lights and Torches of Learning: but by the sloth and negligence of the following generations; or by ruine and depopu­lation of Countreys, these Lights are extinguished, and the darkness of Er­or, Ignorance and Barbarisme over­spread a Land. Physick or the know­ledge of Medicine, hath had its vari­ous fate in the world, as other parts of Learning have had the like; some­times illustrious and splendid; the pro­fessors thereof sometimes men of great Worth and Learning, redeeming it out of the hands of Ignorance and De­cay, and some again of mean parts, [Page 6]empyrical and not industrious, lessen­ing its Worth and Value: and this I shall more properly observe in the following Chapter, noting the pro­gress of Physick, in several ages to its present state in our own days.

TRACT. II. The Rise and Progress of Physick.

THE beginning and increase of the Art of Physick Rodericus à Castro sets forth thus: Concepit medicinam necessitas, solertia peperit, aluit ratio, promovit usus, Lib. de off, med. polit. lon­ga (que) demum experientia consummavit at (que) ab­solutum perfecit: Necessity conceived Phy­sick, Ingenuity brought it forth, Reason nourished it, Use promoted it, & long Ex­perience hath perfected it. But this rheto­rical account he crosseth in another place, and ascribeth the Invention of Physick to God himself, having shewed unto Adam the medicinal vertues of all things, that he might declare it to his posterity: Om­nium Creatorem Deum Optimum Maximum plantarum & caeterarum rerum omnium fa­cultates Adae primo Proto-plasto indicasse, Lib. 2. Cap. 6. eique illarum cognitionem infudisse arbi­tramur.

The excellency and necessity of Phy­sick is such, that the original knowledge of it is not to be imputed to Chance, In­vention, or Casual Experiments upon necessitous occasions or otherwise, though the improvement and progress [Page 8]of Physick hath been much of it acquired upon this score, and is daily increased after this manner; but the rise of it is à diviniore principio, which Hypocrates could acknowledge and does witness. Primi inventores judicaverunt artem dig­nam, Lib. de veter. me­dicie. quae Deo adscriberetur, quemadmo­dum etiam est receptum.

But how the Art of Healing was taught and received at first, by what Rules or Method of learning, how pro­pagated and the primitive knowledge of it continued to their Successors, does not appear upon any Record that I can meet with: but this we may probably believe they were not so expert in using those wayes and means to preserve the traditional knowledge from their Ance­stors (as we in our dayes and the later times, whereby Learning does accumu­late and increase by Revisings and daily Additions from industrious men) that therefore much knowledge did perish with the persons dying in those dayes; so that this excellent Art was long kept in its Iufancy, had many beginnings and first inventions whose general same was not spread in the world for many hundred years, untill the time of Aesculapius ( an. mundi 2242) the Son of Apollo, who first [Page 9]setled this Art, and modelled it by Pre­cepts, which he delivered to his Sonns Podalirius and Machaon: and in this I find most Writers consenting, that Aes­culapius first gave the Art of Physick a great repute, and himself became famous thereby.

Physick at first was a stranger in the world and few that understood the ex­cellency of it; but spreading by time, and growing into knowledge, it was much admired and the practisers thereof ado­red: when the excellent worth and efficacy of it was discovered, all were willing to advance and set it forward; the professors thereof highly reverenced and rewarded with large stipends from Monarchs and Republicks, and had Statues erected for them in honour of their memory after their death. Emperours, Kings and Prin­ces in those dayes were not wanting to promote the excellent knowledge of Phy­sick, by their own study and exemplary industry; and some Medicines of their invention were called by their own names which stand now upon Record in Au­thors of good Credit for these many hundred years; amongst whom were Gentius King of Illyricum, Attalus King of Pergamus, Mithridates King of Pontus, [Page 10]Dionysius, Constantine the fourth, Hadrian, Roman Emperours; Lysimachus King of Macedonia, Avicen è stirpe regia, who wrote in Arabick some Volumes of Phy­sick; Evax an Arabian King. In such pla­ces, before there was any certain know­ledge of Physick, the medicinal vertues of many things were found out by chance; and by observation of the brute Crea­tures, who by a natural instinct do avoid those things that are noxious to them, and follow the use of what is beneficial to their natures; and when Diseases and Accidents happen to them, they repair to what is helpful, and use it by natural inclination and instinct, to preserve them­selves. The Heathens found out many Remedies by Divination and Sooth-say­ing, and invocation of Devils: and Stra­bo reports that among the Indians there was a Law, Stia [...]. 1.15. that if any person had com­mitted a Crime, and did not find out some medicinal Remedy, he was put to death; but if he did find out some such Experiment, he was rewarded and ad­vanced by their Kings. But chiefly the Egyptians were eager in seeking after Physical Experiments, and improving their Skill in Medicines; and as Herodo­tus relates, they brought out their dis­eased [Page 11]and infirm people into the streets and publick places to inquire of those that passed by concerning the nature of their Disease, and the Remedies that might be good for them: and by what means any one was recovered, it was record­ed by their Priests, and reposited in their sacred places to preserve the me­mory of it. In like manner the Grecian Priests did keep their Physical Observa­tions in the secret places of the Temples at Pergamus dedicated to Apollo and Aes­culapius: and the Priests did communi­cate those Secrets to the Sick, who did receive them with great confidence, as coming from the Oracle of Aesculapius, as Galen reports. And Sabinus tells us that the Assyrians did expose their Sick in publick places to passengers, that they might be informed of Remedies against their Infirmities; and this Custom was frequent also in other Countreys, Strabo lib. 16. as Strabo notes.

It was also a Custom in ancient times for Physitians to make Experiments upon condemned Malefactors, to try some Medicines that were dubious or dange­rous, for their better information and knowledge; and the Magistrate was wil­ling to permit it, for the good of man­kind, [Page 12]to promote the Physicians Skill, being so necessary and useful continually. The Custom doubtless was very lau­dable, and we have reason to believe this Art hath gained by it, and honest mens lives less hazarded; those Experi­ments being recorded and brought under Rule, for the use and satisfaction of po­sterity, to guide us more certainly in Practice: and if that Custom were con­tinued amongst us, Physitians might re­ceive much advantage by it and satisfa­ction in doubtful Cases, of which other­wise he cannot so well be resolved, but with some hazard to his Patient, and his own Reputation.

After Aesculapius expired, in process of time Physick began to decline and lose its repute it had formerly, by the negligence of the succeeding Professors, and by the injury and ruine of time, which swallows up the transient glory of all sublunary things.

But Hypocrates of Cous coming into the world redeemed this Art out of Igno­rance and Sloth ( an. mundi 3538. ac­cording to the Computation of some) by whose excellent parts and great in­dustry, Physick was restored again, cul­tivated and enlarged. This famous pro­fessor [Page 13]was descended from Aesculapius as some affirm; and that the knowledge of Physick was accounted so sacred that it might not be revealed and made com­mon, but only to the Off-spring of Aes­culapius: as Lacuna saith, Caeutum enim erat in illa Aesculapiorum familia, nè quis rationem & industriam medendi, possessio­nem planè divinam à Deo ipsis tantum con­cessam cuiquam communicaret, qui non es­se [...] ex eodem genere ortus. And therefore in those dayes, they called such as were skilful in Physick [...], the Sons of Physitians. Freitag. noct. mid. Prolegom. And Freitagius seems to consent with this Report: Tradunt (sayes he) Aesculapium tantum in suos posteros medicinae rationalis Cognitionem pro­pagasse usque ad Hypocratem, qui & ipsus ex Aesculapiorum familia fuit. They re­port that Aesculapius only propagated the knowledge of Physick to his own kin­red even to Hypocrates, who also was of the Linage of Aesculapius.

Hypocrates lived in great esteem and renown, was stiled Princeps Medicorum, Hypocrates divinus, Senex venerandus, and Artaxerxes King of Persia, hearing of the fame of Hypocrates, invites him to come to him, and writes to the Gover­nour of the Hellespont thus: Hypocratis [Page 14]Medici Choi ab Aesculapio originem ducen­tis, gloria artis etiam ad me pervenit: dato igitur ipsi auri quantum voluerit & reliqua abundè quibus opus habet, & ipsum ad nos mittito; nam optimatibus Persarum aequalis erit. Hypocrates Physitian of Cous pro­ceeding from Aesculapius the glory of his Art hath come unto me; therefore give unto him as much Gold as he will have, and abundantly what ever else he hath occasion for, and send him to us; for he shall be equal with the Nobles of Persia.

But notwithstanding this great invita­tion (sayes my Authour) Hypocrates re­fused to go, Freitag. saying, The King of Persia does not know, that Knowledge is bet­ter than Gold; and afterwards at his own Charge he sails to Abdera to visit Democritus the Philosopher; who lay sick there. Many examples there are in Hi­story of the ample Rewards, (many thou­sands of pounds) large stipends, honours & priviledges given to Physitians for Cures, by Emperours, Kings & Princes, so greatly valued was their skill, as Pliny, Herodotus, Philippus Commineas, and others relate; so highly hath this Art been esteemed, and the professors thereof worthily trea­ted. But I must wave the relation of [Page 15]particulars at this time for brevity sake.

After Hypocrates, next flourished Diocles Caristius, Praxagorus, Chrysippus; and after them Herophilus and Erasistratus: about this time Physick began to be divi­ded into three parts, in Diaeteticam, Phar­maceuticam & Chirurgicam; Dyet, Me­dicines and Chirurgery: thus by degrees the Medicinal Art increased, and spread in the world; also different Sects and Judgements, amongst the professors did arise, concerning which we will inquire in the following Chapter.

TRACT. III. Of the Sects, and differents Judgements of Physitians.

THE several forts of Physitians, and Pactisers of Physick, may be reduced to these three heads; Empericks, Methodists, and Rational: which last may be divided into two sorts, Dogmatists or Galenists, and Chymists.

The Empyrical Sect were of opinion that nothing was required to the know­ledge of Physick but Experience: Emperical Sect. now Experience may be said to be of three Wayes, or of three Kinds: the first is accidental; when any thing happens by Chance, that you did not expect: the second Experience is Ex proposito, when one does purposely and designedly make a tryal: the third is Experientia imita­trix; when a Physitian useth or reject­eth those things, which in the like cases he has found to do good or hurt, and this is that Experience chiefly meant, which constituteth that Emperical Art, upon which bottom this Emperical Sect was founded and denominated.

Those men judged Reason useless in [Page 17]their practice, and trusted wholy to Ex­perience; and therefore did not trouble themselves about examining of Causes, and searching into the abstruse nature of Diseases and Bodies: but herein differ the Empericks of ancient times, and these in our daies; for they profess and own nothing but Experience to be their Guide and Master, and herein they were ingenious: but our Empericks pretend not only Experience, but great Know­ledge, when they are very ignorant in Philosophy and the Tongues: now the ancient Empericks, and the modern, neither make inspection into the Disease it self or the Cause, by a rational dis­course and investigation (being unable so to do) but altogether fix their eyes upon the Phaenomena, the external and sensible appearances, the syndrome and concurrence of Symptomes, which hi­storically they have noted in the like Ca­ses, and therefore do give the same Re­medies.

This Sect in ancient times, flourished chiefly amongst the Egyptians, & as Hero­dotus reports, every Disease almost had a particular Physitian, some were for the Eyes, others for the Teeth, some for the Feet, others for the Hand; and so [Page 18]each of them applyed themselves to the Cure of some particular part of the Bo­dy. Men of note of this Sect were Sera­pio, Philinus, Apollonius, Glaucius, Hera­clitus, Tarentinus, Menodotus, &c.

But in process of time finding their blind Experiments to deceive them, which they wholy relyed on, they be­gan to establish themselves upon a better foundation and did inquire into Causes, and the nature of things.

Themison Laodicaeus introduced and was Author of that Sect called the Me­thodists; Methodists. who held that the knowledge of Causes did not conduce to the Cure; nor had they any consideration of the Sick, in respect of Temperament, Age, Custome, Sex, strength of the Patient, time of the Year, Region, or any thing else which a good Physitian ought to have, but only looked upon the Disease in facto esse, as it appeared by the Dia­nosticks, and from thence only they took their indication for Cure.

They made their Art very compen­dious and short, and asserted against Hypocrates who pronounced Vitam bre­vem & artem longam, Aphor. that the Art of Physick was neither long not hard; and Thessalus would vainly boast and promise [Page 19]to teach it in six months, without the assistance of any other learning. They reduced all Diseases under these two Heads, Astriction, and Laxity: for which two general Medicines they appointed, an Astringent for Laxity; and a Laxa­tive for Astriction; and one of these was used in all Cases: of this Sect was Sara­nus, Antipater, Thessalus, Trallianus and others.

The vanity of whose Art was such, that I need not use any Argument to re­fute their Opinions.

I come now to the Rational Physitians, Rational Physitians. who are the considerable Party, that deserve to be insisted upon and rightly understood: they were stiled Rational Physitians, because by a strict ratiotina­tion they did search into the Causes of all things; and were not contented to trust Experience only for their Rule and Guide (as the Emperical Sect) but did joyn Reason with Experience, to con­firm and ascertain the truth of what they did believe: they took Cognisance of the whole frame of Nature, and dived into the Secrets thereof; they brought under examination the natural action and proprieties of all things; they consider­ed accuratly the Frame of Man's Body, [Page 20]in its natural and preternatural state; what was conducing to preserve him in health, and what would free him from sickness: they took an account of all the preternatural affects, that humane bodies were incident to; how procured, how differenced and discerned, and how to be remedied: and this they did establish by Rules and Precepts, to constitute and settle the Medicinal Art upon a hand some and certain foundation.

These Rational Physitians though aim­ing all well, and industriously tending towards one end; yet differed much in their Progress and Medicines to attain it, and still continue so to this day.

Of these there are two grand dissenting Parties; Dogmatists or Galenists; and Chy­mists or Hermetic Physitians: they were called Dogmatists from the many Opini­ons that did arise amongst themselves; and now called Galenists from Galen their great Patron whom they assert, and pro­fess themselves to be his Disciples, and own his Doctrine.

Galen lived about six hundred years after Hypocrates, Galen. and practised Physick at Athens, Alexandria and Rome, where he was in great fame and splendor: he was a very learned man, and intended the [Page 21]honour and good of the Profession, as appears by his great labour and pains which he took in writing so many Vo­lumes of Physick, and crushing the Em­perical Sect and Methodists that defamed this excellent Art: but for all this, he was not so fortunate in his works, as to build the stately structure of Physick which he had notably framed, upon a right foundation; which caused him to accumulate errors, that his volumi­nous Writings are of little advantage, except to those who are wary and intel­ligent, and rightly principl'd, that know how to pick and chuse; such I say may make some good use of his Works: but they that admire, and read him so as to swallow all that's presented, and be­come a perfect Disciple of his; such shall never be excellent in the true knowledge of Physick, if they persist. Doubtless had this great Physitian been acquainted with the discoveries in Physick, which some Physitians in these dayes are Ma­sters of; his parts and industry were such, he had excelled all before and after him, and Galen then would not have been a Galenist but a Chymist.

I shall not note the failings of this great man, others have sufficiently done [Page 22]that already; yet many there are that think his Works most perfect, at least will have them so, Servilia quorundam recentiorum ingenia satis mirari non possum, Senert. Co [...]. ct disse [...]. Chym. cum Gal [...]. qui scribere ausi sunt, se cum antiquis er­rare malle, quam cum recentioribus verum dicere, sayes Sennertus. So addicted are many, jurare in verba magistri, they will maintain the Credit of their Patrous right or wrong. But Julius Scaliger notes the pertinacious defence of antique Authors, to be very injurious to truth and increase of knowledge. Equidem saepenumerò miratus sum mortalium vel au­daciam vel pertinaciam, Lib. 3. de Caus. Ling. Lat. qui tuentur erro­res, quos ii qui commiserunt, si viverent, emendarent. Many there are who do­tingly do so adore their Patrons that they will maintain such tenents of theirs; as they themselves, had they been alive now, would have recanted and receded from them.

Sennertus his Counsel in this case is very just and moderate, concerning the truth, and the repute of famous antique Au­thors; his words are these: Antiquorum & magnorum virorum scripta & inventa magnifaciamus & gratà mente amplecta­mur: Sen. Co [...]s. Et disse [...]. Chyn. cum Galea. iis tamen non tam quia antiqua & à magnis profecta, quam quia veritati con­sentanea [Page 23]sunt, fidem habeamus; si vero ali­quando à veritate deflectant, nostrum esse pu­temus; non maledictis eos & convicijs in­cessere, sed corrigere & defectus illos sup­plere: amicus sit Hypocrates, amicus Galenus, imo amicus Paracelsus, sed nullius tanta sit authoritas ut veritati, quae prae omnibus no­his amica sit, praejudicare debet.

I shall now leave Galen and his Party; and come to the other division of Ratio­nal Physitians, namely the Chymical or Hermetic Physitians: I shall not trouble you with the different opinions about Nomenclature and derivation of the word Chymia or Chemia; nor do I pur­pose at this time, to launch forth into the Controversie between these two great Parties, that is a large piece of work; only I shall obliquely glance at some differences in the Current of this Discourse.

The name of Chymist sounds harsh in some mens ears, and they suppose Chy­mistry to be but a novel invention: as for Chymists the Artists and Professors there­of, I shall speak of them hereafter; at present we will consider the antiquity and rise of this Art; the propagation of it by whom; and thirdly the necessary use and excellency of it.

Concerning the rise and invention of Chymistry, Authors disagree in this point; but thus much I am convinced of & may safely affirm, that Chymistry bears a very ancient date, and is of long standing in the world: some divide Chymistry into two parts, Metallurgiam & Chymiatriam; transmutation of Metals, and making of Medicines; and that the first gave occa­sion and detection of the later. For me­tallick elaboration and working upon Metals we find the antiquity of that in Sacred Writ; Tubalcain was an Artifi­cer in Brass and Iron: now Brass and Iron is not digged out of the earth com­pleat for use, but requires fusion and artificial separation of heterogeneous parts, to fit these metals for use: nor can we think their tryals and skill extended only to these two Metals mentioned; but very probably we may believe they did operate and exercise their Art in other the more noble Metals and Minerals. Now for the Chymiatrical or Medical part of Chymistry, though I cannot positively affirm that it was in use then, yet we plainly see there was a foundation laid and beginning from hence that we may probably conclude it was not long after, but medicinal Experiments were found [Page 25]out; for by proving and trying of Mi­nerals many things are found beyond the intention of the Artist.

But for a more plain discovery of this Art, and by a more general agreement of Authors; this profound Art is ascribed to Hermes Trifmegistus (therefore called ars Hermetica) who lived in the year of the world 2440. contemporary with Moses in Egypt, where he exercised this Art: and some are of opinion that Mo­ses was skilled in this Art, being bred up in all the learning of the Egyptians, and that by this Art he pulverised the gol­den Calf. But it is not antiquity that proves the excellency of Chymistry; for as Sennertus sayes, Licet hodiè primum Chymia inventa esset; dignitati tamen ejus id nihil detraheret. Sat enim antiquum, quod fat bonum; nihilque invenire est quod non aliquando novum fuerit; & multa pro novis habentur, quae sunt antiquissima, though Chymistry were but of a late stand­ing that does not derogate from the ex­cellency of the Art, the best of things had a beginning; though we could not be so well satisfied and ascertained in it, having not proved and examined it suffi­ciently, being a matter of time which per­fectly discovers all things: but Chymistry [Page 26]hath been a sufficient time in the world, exercised by skilful, learned and industri­ous men, who have left us such infallible testimonies and undenyable demonstra­tions of its admirable worth, together with our own proofs and experiments, which hath put us past all doubting, that we are able to stop the mouths of all gainsayers) except the ignorant or ma­licious detractors, whom reason cannot rule or perswade.

But to let pass the antiquity and rise of this Art; we will consider the pro­gress and gradual perfection, as it hath been handed and delivered even to us in these dayes, successively by men of great note and worth, and the esteem they had for it, which alone without demonstration de factis, what it can per­form, is sufficient to perswade reaso­nable men into the excellency and worth of it. Philosophers and Physitians that have treated of Chymistry in Arabick are, Geber, Markos, Avicen, Albumazar, Haly, Rhasis, &c. In Greek have writ­ten Olimpiodorus, Zosimus, Heliodorus, Dardanus, Democritus, and others.

In Latine we have a great company that have propagated and illustrated this Art, men of great fame and worth: as [Page 27] Raymund Lully, Arnoldus Villanovanus, Pe­trus Villanovanus, Thomas Aquinas, Joannes de Rupescissa, Paracelsus, Libavius, Valensis, Maierus, Basil: Valentinus, Crollius, Querce­tan, Mylius, Penotus, Sendivogius, Angelus Sala, Faber, Hartman, Schroder, Van Hel­mont, Glauber, and Swelfer that excellent Physitian and Pharmacopaeian, (with many more which I have not named) men of great Learning and Judgement, laborious in Chymistry, by whose industry in this Art, we have admirable disco­veries made to us of the mysteries in Na­ture, not to be unlocked but by the Key of this Art; by which we are establish­ed upon principles in Physick more con­sonant with Reason, and more satisfa­ctory then the Galenick Doctrine; being enabled thereby to prove them by Sense, A sensibus [...]aim cogni­tio restra depe [...]det, ut jure Plato dixcrit, sec­sus esse sin­ceros mentis internan­tios, cosque appellaverit quasi satel­lites, & duces ad veritatem compara­dam. which confirms and determines our reasonings and dubious discourses.

I shall not give you the account and testimony of these Chymical Au­thors (though the best of Physitians) to establish and confirm you in the right and just opinions of Chymistry, that it is the only way to attain excelling Me­dicines; but you shall have the Confes­sions of Galenick Writers, and those men of note, approved and imitated in [Page 28]their practice by the Galenists of our times.

The light of Chymistry hath so far pre­vailed against the darkness of error and ignorance; that the most are constrained to confess and acknowledge its excellent worth and use, though they be bottom­ed upon another foundation, I mean Ga­lenick principles.

Freitagius a Galenist, yet confesseth the goodness of Chymistry: Chymia nulli Medicorum sordere aut in vilipendio esse debet, sed potius ingeniosa Encheria & elegans praeparandorum medicamentorum ra­tic in summa lauda ponenda, Noct. Med. Cap. 19. utpote quae scitu medicis utilis, quod ejus beneficio divinae aliquot compositiones & essentiae inventae, multisque balsamis, eximiis liquoribus ole­isque, ante nostram atatem pene ignoratis pharmacopolia nostra ditata sunt, quare his [...]eculis nostris magno mortalium bono Chy­mia è tenebris revexit.

Also Mercatus that Learned Spaniard an eminent Galenick Writer, speaks the praise of Chymical Medicines, and shews their efficacy where others can­not prevail, Chymica enim arte summa comparatur mixtis tenuitas, Tom. 2. de recte prae­sid. Isu. pag. 193. qua dupliciter malis penitioribus facit, & quia accedit ad imum radisesque mali, & quia cum toto af­fecto [Page 29]loco conversatur & miscetur, Med. polit. pag. 19. ut facilè alteret & evincat.

And Rodericus à Castro though a severe Galenist, inveighing bitterly against Pa­racelsus, yet confesseth that Chymistry affords them a true way of making Me­dicines: Nec inficias imus quorundam re­mediorum ritè praeparandorum cam artem rationem nobis suppeditare; & qui hoc praestat, hunc verum ac industriosum Chymi­stam appellamus.

Hear what Gregory Horstius sayes (a worthy Physitian) in commendation of Chymistry, and he joyns Heurnius and Mathiolus consenting with him. Encomia Chymiae non opus est ut hic recenseam, quia verum est quod habet alicubi Heurnius: Ce­spitat jam profectò sine hac arte medicina; quam ab causam recte dicit, And: Horst. l. 10. de pharm. Mathio­lus in Epist. Ausim dicere neminem medicum absolutem esse posse, imo nec medicorum qui­dem, qui in hac nobilissima distillandi sci­entia non sit exercitatus.

Chymistry is so necessary to a Physi­tian that he cannot be compleat without it; nay they will not allow him to be an ordinary competent Physician if he be not exercised and knowing in this Art.

And Arnisaeus Physick Professor in the University of Julia, writing to Horstius, [Page 30]gives him this account: Studium enim medicum, Dei gratia, viget apud nos, ut vix ante hac: & ne quid desit, Aperui studiosis medicinae, meo sumptu, Collegium & exer­citium medicum, ad quod operas suas mihi conduxit Augustus Etzlerus, homo indu­strius & in artis operibus diu versatus; Au­dio & apud vos Chymiam publicè & doceri & exerceri, To which Greg. Horstius re­turns him this answer: Nostri quod olim, ubi commilitones eramus in Juli [...] vestra Academia, praeceptores nostri, Clariss [...]. Dom. Horst. Epist. Jacobus Horstius, patr [...]us meus ho­norandus, Clariss. Parcovius, Arnoldus, Sigfridus & Siddelius, nihil in sese deside­rari paterentur, quo studiosae juventuti po­terant inservire, quod corundem monumen­ta satis confirmant; Unica Chymia desidera­batur—Caeterum conatus tuos laudo, qui nullis sumptibus parcis, quo sarta tecta fa­cultatis medicae existimatio nobis maneat; exercitium Chymicum Philiatris aperuisti non tantum, sed etiam ejusmodi collaboran­tem conduxisti, qui jamdudum sua diligen­tia multis innotuit: nos etiam Chymica tra­ctare non ignoras:—this bears date 1617. you may see what esteem Chymistry hath had in some Universities, the students instructed in it and exercised; and those Physitians that were not skilled in this [Page 31]Art, it was accounted in them a great de­ficiency.

And Belzar Chief Physitian to the Elector of Saxony, writes to Horstius that eminent Professor, chiefly to give him this account: Caeterum quod scire gestis, nostra officina Aulica remediorum Chymico­rum varietate satis instructa est, quorum Catalogum propedièm meus Dominus videbit. But that which you desire to know, our Laboratory at Court is sufficiently fur­nished with variety of Chymical Medi­cines, a Catalogue of which, forthwith shall be presented to the Duke. In Hor­stius his answer to this Letter he writes, Videant osores Chymiae, praeter spem ipso­rum, quotidie magis utilissimam hanc artem magnatibus commendari—the haters of Chymistry may see beyond their ex­pectation, this most profitable Art of Chymistry daily to be esteemed by Nobles.

Chymistry and Chymical Medicines were accounted the glory of a Physitian with these learned Professors; and in­deed it may well be; for by this he is what he is, if he be a Physitian of worth; and without it he is of little value, for he can have but little true fundamental knowledge in Physick.

Chymistry makes a man an exact Na­turalist; and this is the foundation for a Physitian to stand upon; and this leads him into the Secrets and Curiosities of Nature which are hid to all those that have not this Key. Here Causes and their Effects are discovered, and their mutual relations owned: by a Chymical Analysis and unravelling of mixt Bodies, is discovered their heterogeneous parts and distinct properties; whereby they are sensibly manifest to be what they are, which before was but dubiously discour­sed of at random.

Sennertus a solid Writer, generally approved of by all the Galenists and fol­lowed in his practice, gives this account of Chymistry. ‘Almost all that hath been said by the Chymists in the praise of Chymistry and Chymical Medinines, we freely subscribe to.’ Cons. & diss. Chym. c [...]m Gal. cap. 2. Then he brings in Schenkius a Galenist confessing the admi­rable worth of Chymistry, and recites his own words which are these: In sepa­randis mixtis naturis admodum ingeniosa est ars Chymica, ut digna sit admirationis, & minimè contemnenda & negligenda à Me­dicis.

And Mesue of a toyal bloud, a Physi­tian who lived about 500. years ago, [Page 33]whose works are well esteemed; speaks thus of Chymical Physitians: They are called Chymists, who make manifest and discover the hidden properties of things; that I may confidently say, scarce any one is able to attain to the internal ab­struse knowledge of things, who is not skilful in Chymical Operations; by which natural bodies are artificially dis­joyned and severed into parts, Antidotar. distiect. 21. from whence the admirable consent and dis­sent of things are discovered, which otherwise would remain occult.

Sennertus in the same Tract mentioned, reckons up more Converts, eminent Physitians that began to applaud Chy­mistry; and became Disciples of this profound Art: Quae cum ita se habent, charissimi quique medici Chymiam, post­quam superiore saeculo inclarescere coepit, & coluerunt & laudarunt; Langius, Ander­natus, Gesnerus, Crato, Zuingerus, Schen­kius, Horat. Augenius, Minadous, & plu­rimi alij. And indeed in our times we find most of the Galenists, at least the best of them, confessing and applauding Chymistry, though their practice is Ga­lenical.

Indeed Chymistry requires pains and diligence in making various tryals and [Page 34]experiments, before a man can obtain a competent knowledge therin; and re­quires necessary accommodations for those purposes, which is both charge­able and troublesome, that many de­cline it upon this score, which else would willingly embrace it: some can­not spare time to prosecute it; others are ashamed to begin to learn: for such cau­ses and impediments as these, Chymistry is laid aside; the Galenick practice is an easier life; those which would embrace Chymical truths, cannot or will not un­dergo the Chymical labour and exercise in this noble Art; but without manual operations, your speculations are unpro­fitable, and your conceptions erroneous conjectures.

As for the state and condition of Phy­sick in our own times, though we have very illustrious discoveries made to us, such as the former ages never enjoyed, (thanks to profound Helmont and some others) and we are in a better capacity to advance and establish this excellent Art beyond whatever it hath been be­fore; yet by reason of the dissent a­mongst the Professors, and a rabble of Empericks and illiterate practisers, that destroy both Art and Artists, the hopes [Page 35]of accomplishing this excellent work, now languisheth before our eyes; and we may fear that Physitians of the next Generation will be Mechanicks and not Academicks, Tempesti­vus metus, prudens se­curitas est. if timely prevention do not turn the Current, by an unanimous consent amongst the Learned Professors.

I have now compendiously given you an account of the several Sects and diffe­rent Judgements of Physitians, whereby they have and are distinguished into Par­ties, through the whole progress of Phy­sick to our own dayes: our next business is a more particular and strict inquiry into the qualifications, and actions of Chymical Operations, and others exer­cising the Practice of Physick.

TRACT. IV. The several Sorts of Chymists distinguished.

I Find the people either deceiving themselves, or being deceived with Chymists; which hath brought a disre­pute upon the name, that the Chymical Physitian suffers much by it; especially in the opinion of the unlearned that can­not well distinguish.

There are four sorts of Chymical men, that go under the name of Chymist. The Shop Chymist, the Chymical Emperick, the Galeno-Chymist, the True Chymical Phy­sitian.

The Shop Chymist, he is Operator and Venditor; a maker and seller of Chymi­cal Medicines in his Shop: The Chymical Emperick he is Operator and Practitioner; a maker and practiser with Chymical Me­dicines: The Galeno-Chymist, he is Spe­culator and Practiser; an approver or lover of Chymical Medicines, and practi­ser with them, but not operator; he does not make not exercise himself in Chymical operations.

The True Chymical Physitian, he is Speculator, Operator and Practiser. It [Page 37]is his study, exercise and practice.

The Shop Chymist makes and sells Chy­mical Medicines, as the Apothecary does the Galenick Medicines; they learn their Art by Apprentiships and manual ope­ration, not by Philosophical instruction and learned education. Their Trade is making and selling of Medicines, and to be directed by the Physitian in the legiti­mate artificial preparation thereof, who alone is, at least ought to be Magister Ar­tis; these are ministerial and subordinate to him, and are to be confined within that station; their business extends no farther in Medicines then their Shop, where their Trade is: the practice of Physick belongs not to these; and this Chymist is not a Chymical Physitian, nor is he quallified for any such employment; if otherwise he does, then he falls under the Censure of a Chymical Emperick, and is to be taken for no other: but if he fol­lows his Trade honestly, making Me­dicines faithfully, and with skill accord­ing to the Rules of Art, his Calling is just and useful; and may supply the wants of Chymical Physitians, in such Medicines as their own accommodations cannot furnish them with.

But if this man be not both able and [Page 38]honest, his Trade is most dangerous, and the greatest Cheat of all others; and therefore this Trade ought most strictly to be looked into and examined: for from this Chymist the Apothecaries are fur­nished with the most of their Chymical Medicines, and they are dispersed into all parts of the Kingdom, from London into the Countrey Apothecaries hands, for the use of Physitians: the Physitian though he be a Galenick practiser, yet oft­times prescribes these Chymical Medi­cines, and takes them upon trust, as the A­pothecary does, supposing them to be good and faithfully made.

Now if these Medicines be sophisti­cate, and fallacious, or unskilfully, or negligently prepared, (as too many are) I need not tell you what injury they do.

This is a general Concern and worth taking notice; every sick man may ex­pect to take his share here, good or bad.

TRACT. V. The Chymical Emperick.

THis man is very injurious to the Learned Chymical Physitian, whom he fallaciously does personate and repre­sent: by whose ignorance and dangerous practice, a scandal is brought upon Chymical Medicines, and the true pro­fessors of that Art, the people not well discerning the one from the other, think them all alike, and the miscarriages of these fellows defame the very name of Chymist: but I shall inform you, and let you understand the great difference be­tween this Emperick, and the Chymical Doctor of Physick.

The Emperical Chymist for the most part is some broken Tradesman, or other person of decayed fortunes, that takes shelter here to support himself, by deluding incautelous people not knowing how to detect this deceitful Chymist, Nullus tam stupidus Phormio est, F [...]citag. vel Davus qui frustra omnibus vi­tam tuendi rationibus tentatis, demum [...]on profiteatur Medicinam, sayes Freita­ius. There is none so dull a block­head [Page 40]having tryed in vain other shifts to live, but at last he can practice Physick. This is the Asylum and refuge that many men betake them to in their desperate fortunes. He does not only deceive the Sick, but he defames a learned Art, and the worthy professors of it: else, Si po­pulus vult decipi, decipiatur.

But if this pretended Chymist be not such a man as I have described, forced by fortune to profess Physick and the Chymical Art; but comes in upon a voluntary score, and is free to live this way, or another way if he please. Yet if he be not prepared with learning, hath not laid a Philosophical foundation to fit him for this grand Business, hath not gone through the whole body of Physick, and is well verst in every part, to qualifie and fit him for practice; this man is but an Emperick, a bold Intruder, a Cheat in this Profession, and a dange­rous man to advise or give Physick. Hear what Hypocrates sayes for the qualifying and fitting a Physitian, whosoever will get the true knowledge of Physick, must obtain it by these means; Hypocrat. A natural In­geny and Promptness, Learning, Convenien­cies for Study, Education from his Youth, Industry and Time: But these men have [Page 41]scarce one of these qualifications, and yet they dare undertake the Practice of Phy­sick, and the making of Medicines, nei­ther of which they rightly understand, or are qualified to learn, having no foun­dation to stand upon, or praevious re­quisite disposition to initiate them. Hi Medicinam nescientes, Medicina abutuntur; & artem egregiam quam non noverunt, Rodericus Epist. in Speculo su [...] vitae hu­manae. pro­fitentur; Medicinae excellenti & illustri no­mine gloriantur, & quaestus gratia pecu­niam, ut finem, quaerunt. They are the words of Rodericus Bishop of Zamora, complaining of the Empericks of those times: and so goes on; Adde quod multa millia hominum talium Medicorum insipien­tia aut inexperientia cadant, quod dum u­num morbum curare satagunt, plures indu­cunt. Although the Chymical Emperick and the Galenick, are much alike in their qualifications to practice Physick, that what is said of the one may serve to de­cipher and warn you of the other, that I need not name them distinctly; yet more particularly I shall describe the Cheating Chymist, who is the more dangerous fel­low of the two, and a disgrace to the most learned profound art of Chymistry. At his very first designing and entrance upon Physick, he falls to work upon the [Page 42]making of Medicines, and practising upon the Sick: he never thinks that seven years study is required, and little enough to lay a foundation before practice; no, he cannot stay so long; he is for present get­ting of Money, not for spending of Mo­ney. And now he begins to practice, he is an expert learned Physitian, the very first day he begins: he boasts of great Cures he hath done, and what is it he cannot cure? He will talk as confidently, and lye as handsomly, as if he had been at the Trade a long time; telling you what wonderful Cures he hath performed, and what Patients have gone through his hands. Nihil audacia doctius, & igno­rantia audacius. Hypocrat. He brags much of his Experience, for Reason he can produce little. He takes the Title of Chymical Doctor upon him, when perhaps he ne­ver saw the inside of a University; he vilifies University Learning, but loves University Honour, and thinks himself wronged if you call him not Doctor: if you speak of a Doctor of Physick that is so indeed; he slights his Title, and counts Degrees of no value; but the Doctoral Title he hath conferred on himself, that he expects you take good notice of, and reverence him for. He gains his know­ledge [Page 43]a new way, not by University Philosophy, nor in the Schools; but a­mongst his Furnaces; and he is Philoso­phus per ignem, a Philosopher by the Fire; and they that meddle with them are sure to burn their fingers.

This working Chymist we will consider him as Inceptor, in the beginning of his practice; or as Adeptus, by the length of time more experienced in making Medi­cines. At first, he is a barbarous fellow and kills desperately; and few scape (that comes in his Clutches) without a mischief, but carrie about them memen­to's of his Craft. He falls to work at first dash with Antimony and Mercury, and makes Medicines enough to depopu­late a City. After many sad disasters in his practice, he begins to be more wary; and by doleful experience (to the Sick) is taught to make more safe and gentle Medicines: Jam melius didicit pe­riculis vestris.

By time, if the man be ingenious and follows his work diligently, in meliora­ting his Medicines and improving his ex­periments; is well accommodated with a Laboratory and Utensils; he will be able to make some good Medicines, and becomes a better operator then formerly; [Page 44]but a great many have paid dearly for his skill; but their mouths are stopt with earth that they cannot complain of his hard usage, and he proceeds on in his practice boldly and smoothly: and now (after his long Adventures and hazar­dous Experiments to instruct him) we will be so candid and favourable to him in our opinions, as to consider him equal with the Shop Chymist, and suppose him to understand the working part of Chymistry, that he is able to make any Medicine according to the progress laid down in any Author or Pharmacopeian.

And now being arrived hither, if he would leave practising upon the Sick, and keep only to making of Medicines, and make them faithfully to sell, for the use of Physitians, Apothecaries, or others that desire them; or be an operator to Physitians, and Tyroe's in Chymistry; this man might live more happily and free from blame. But he is loth to leave his old wont; Bonus odor lucri—though unjustly gotten: his practise brought in Money; and having usurped the Do­ctorship, he thinks scorn to be degra­ded, and take his own proper Title a­gain; he will be a Doctor still, so long as any body will think him so, or repair [Page 45]to him; and rather then his Custom shall fail, he will have twenty crafty tricks to hook in Patients. Such Medicasters as these, London now abounds with, & other parts of the Kingdom has too many such scattered here and there, to the dispa­ragement of Physick, Freitag. and the learned Professors. Imposturas horum medicastro­rum emendet Magistratus & Caveat vulgus, it belongs to the Magistrate to reform these abuses, and the people to be war­ned of such Impostors.

Here I shall leave this Cheating Chymist at his cunning deceits and jugling with his Patients, and shew you his Capa­city and Ability to practice Physick, supposing him at the best (which few of them attain to) a good operator and prepater of Chymical Medicines.

I must confess, to make good Medicines, and be well skilled in Pharmacy, is one good part of a Physitian, nay a princi­pal part; but where is all the rest to compleat him? Here is a Body but no Head; here are Medicines but where is Skill to use them: there is a great deal more required to qualifie a Physitian, besides Medicines. I can take a Plough­man and learn him to make Medicine in some reasonable time, but what then? [Page 46]I may make him a good work-man, but not a good Physitian: this man I may teach to work well with his hands, but he is not capable to work with his head: he has not the rudiments and ground-work of Philosophy to fit and capacitate him for such an employment.

That man which intends the practice of Physick, must be qualified with good Literature, and lay a Philosophical foun­dation, that he may be able to discourse and reason with himself, the causes and effects of things, both in Nature and Art: that he may be able to judge and examine the Opinions and Doctrine of men in the same faculty, to adhere to this or that according to right reason. The Furniture required to accommodate and fit a Physitian is much, and requires a good time to be gathering together: he must be instituting and fitting up from his youth, taking in Literature betimes, (Ars longa, vita brevis est) and gradu­ally compleating step by step, from one part of Learning to another, untill he be throughly qualified for the Art or Science he is designed for.

Ubi desinit Physicus, ibi incipit Medicus. A man is not to meddle with Physick untill he has run through Natural Phi­losophy; [Page 47]this is the foundation he stands upon: and when he comes to the study of Physick, Ars Medendi, he has a long progress to make before he comes to the Pharmaceutick part, the contrivance of Medicines; this is the last work he hath to do, he is now come to the top of the Ladder, here he finisheth his Course, and having gained this he is compleat. But this Emperick skips all the rest, and mounts to the top at first: if this man do not catch a fall, he is sure to make many one lye low for it: he begins where the true Physitian ends; he falls to work upon Medicines, before he understands the nature of Humane Bodies or Disea­ses, the Materials he works upon, or the Rules of his Art he pretends to.

But this man you will say has learned by long Experience to make good Me­dicines, now he may practice safely? No, admit he has; good Tools do not make a good Artist: he that makes Chi­rurgical Instruments is as unskilful in Chirurgery as another man. If you bring me the Tools and Instruments of the best Watch-maker; yet I cannot make a Watch; I cannot use them, be­cause I have not the whole design of the work in my head: so this working Chy­mist, [Page 48]suppose he has good Medicines, yet what can he do with them, if he do not understand the whole Art of Physick, he cannot practice knowingly and safely as an honest man ought to do: you may as well kill a man with a Cordial, as with another Medicine; you may kill a man with a good Medicine as well as with a bad, if the condition of the Patient be not considered according to the indica­tions: if you give a, good Medicine out of season, and neglect opportunity, if you give one Medicine when the case requires another; a Purge when a Cordial is required; or a Cordial, when a Purge or other Medicine is re­quired; the opportunity perhaps is gone of doing this man good. There is a time and season to be observed, when Medicine is to be given this or that as the occasion does call for, which none but the skilful Physitian understands; who knows the nature of the Disease, its progress, complications, and condi­tion of the Patients body.

The making of Medicines is not suf­ficient to qualifie you for a Physitian; there is a great deal more belongs to ac­complish a Physitian besides that: a man may be a good work-man in hewing and [Page 49]carving a piece of Timber, yet may be very unfit to contrive the Building of a Ship; he must have the whole Design and Frame of such a work in his head, considering every material appertaining that it be exact and proportionate accor­ding to Rule, that the whole may be compleat in the several parts of it. You suppose this Chymist can make a good Medicine: what then? This does not make him a good Physitian; he is only an operator, a good work-man at best: but using and designing Medicines right­ly is a profound Art, requires great knowledge which is not obtained but by long time, and a diligent Series of study. This Chymist begins at the wrong end, he begins with making of Medicines, and neglects all the rest that belongs to this Learned Art; but the true Physitian he finisheth his study and ends with Me­dicines; then enters upon practice.

The insufficiency of these men in Learning; their inability to acquire a sound, requisite, Philosophical know­ledge, by this preposterous indirect course, is apparent to reasonable men, that such are deceivers of the Sick and a­busers of a most learned and noble Art. And therefore it behoves all that have [Page 50]a regard to their safety, to beware least they fall into the hands of such impostors, that fallaciously personate the Learned Chymical Physitian, and impudently usurp the Doctoral Title; that vilifie and reproach men of Learning, despise their Degrees, and scoff at Universities as a ridiculous Education, which nothing but the bold front of Ignorance, or ex­quisite Knavery and Envy could do the like. And now I leave them to be han­dled by those, which have a power, and ought to reform these grand abuses, and give due incouragement to Learning and learned men.

TRACT. VI. The practising Apothecary.

AMongst the Encroachers upon the Faculty of Physick, we find the practising Apothecary usurping the Physi­tians Function, to which formerly he was ministerial; but has now broke that relation and become magisterial, a pro­fessor and practiser of Physick: how this comes about, that the Doctor should be undermined by his Servant, whom he hath intrusted with his Secrets, and put great confidence in, is worth inquiring into: Sure here was great folly in the one to lay open the Accana's of his Art, & give occasion to be supplanted and begui­led; or great knavery in the other to be­tray his trust, and usurp the authority of his Master. Whether of the two is more to be blamed and censured, though in a different respect, is hard to say, for both are highly guilty. But we will proceed to a farther examination of this Matter.

How long have you been a practiser of Physick? Apoth. Almost ever since Physitians deserted the making of their [Page 52]Medicines: though they be so careless to neglect the weightiest part of their Pro­fession, and resign the most difficult part of their Art into the hands of o­thers to manage; yet I am an industri­ous man and had rather do more then I ought, then less: and therefore I think I am not to be blamed so much as they.

Who taught you this trick of practi­sing Physick? That does not belong to your Trade, you are only to make and sell, you are not to advise, and take charge of the Sick, you forget the Pro­verb, Ne Sutor ultra crepidam. Apoth. I learned it of my Master, he got many a fair pound by it; he gained the love of his Neighbours and Friends by saving them the expence of Fees; and got Cu­stom to his Shop by it.

But how dare you to practice Phy­sick? That's a great Undertaking, a grand Business which requires much knowledge and great skill to manage, you only know how to make the Medi­cines. Apoth. 'Tis true, I do not solidly understand the whole body of Physick, but I understand a Medicine better then he that prescribes it; so if I be defective in the other parts of Physick, he is in Medicines, for I correct his Bill some­times, [Page 53]else it would not be secundum ar­tem; therefore I think my self not so in­capable to practice, nor of the worst sort of Empericks that understand neither Diseases nor Medicines.

But Friend, the Physitians deficien­cy in the pharmacopoietical part, does not countenance you to be pragmatick, nor qualifie you in the other parts of Physick; and you have reason to thank him for being so, else where had been your Trade? He parted with the Secrets of his Art to set you up: now had not you better follow your Trade honestly, and not usurp the Physitians Function; whereby you will shew your gratitude, and acknowledgements for this great kindness, and own what you have re­ceived from him. Apoth. Truly, the number of our Trade does much increase, and we are so many of us, and the Chy­mical Empericks so abound, that I can­not get enough by selling in my Shop, except I go abroad and practice: besides, the Medicines of my Shop are so many, I must find a way to vend them, or they will be spoiled before they be spent.

Although this does not excuse you in the Injury done to Physitians, yet if it be so as you say, it mitigates your fault [Page 54] à tanto; but why do you not seek a Re­dress, by better and more careful means; by consulting the Physitians, whose Candor towards you is such, they will be ready to joyn and assist your Corpo­ration, in rectifying and obviating those inconveniencies for the future, you com­plain of; by preventing the swelling number and great increase of Traders. By contracting and taking off the super­fluous and supernumeraries of your Me­licines imposed upon you; and by sup­pressing the Chymical Empericks and all other illegal practisers: which being done (as it is not very difficult to be ef­fected) the Business of Physick will lie between the Physitians and your selves; and then you will have no Cause or Plea to exceed the bounds of your Trade, nor the Physitians just Cause to complain of you, as they have at this day.

But Mr. Apothecary, if you practice and be much abroad, visiting your Patients, who must manage your Business at home? Apoth. My Boyes can do the Business in the Shop, they can make Medicines and serve Customers, and if a Physitians Bill come they can make up the Medicine well enough to serve turn.

But what if the Boyes should mistake, [Page 55]or for want of Care and Skill, the Me­dicine be ill made, will not that reflect upon you, if it do not operate well, according to the intention of the Medi­cine. Apoth. No, I can come off well enough, I can say the Medicine was made according to the Prescription; the Doctor cannot disprove me, let the fault lie at his door: I must look after my oc­casions abroad; my Servants are suffi­cient to do the Business at home; I can­not be alwayes in my Shop, nor will I tye my self to wait upon his Business, but at my own conveniency: 'tis true, we were at first but Ministri Medicorum; but now we are in a fair way to be Me­dicorum Magistri: we can bring them in­to practice, and we can put them out of practice when we please: if we do but whisper in the Patients ear, this Doctor does not prescribe well; he comes no more there, another is sent for that we like bettter, that useth our Shop, or plea­seth our humour: our words goe far in the opinion of the Patient, and except he be very much preingaged and bent upon a Physitian, we can sway him this way or that way as our interest leads us; but if he names a Chymical Physitian, one that makes his own Medicines, we [Page 56]cry him down might and main, he spoils our Trade; we can say he is a Quack, or a man of no parts (though he be the ablest Physitian in the Town) that his Medicines are mineral Physick and dan­gerous; we will blast his Credit if it be possible; he shall have no Reputation if our words can defame him: but he that practiseth at our own Shop, that sends his Bills hither; that is the best Physi­tian, and him only we advise you to.

'Tis enough; we understand now the mystery and design of your Trade; your unlawful practice of Physick, and influ­ence upon the Sick; your encroachments upon Physitians, and secret injuries. We understand now the Apothecary's advice and kindness to the Patient in the choice of a Physitian; his judgement and censure of Physitians, upon what Bias it runs.

When Physick was in its Infancy, and after it began to increase and have good growth in Hypocrates & Galen's times, Phy­sitians then managed the whole Business themselves, there was no Apothecaries; but the careful industrious Physitian prepa­red his own Medicines and would not intrust so great a Concern in the hand of others: but when Physick came into a [Page 57]general repute and use; Physitians few, and Patients many; they began to com­mit the preparation of their medicines to others, whom they did instruct and train up in Pharmacy, and were wholly gui­ded and commanded by the Physitian, and were very obsequious & usefull ser­vants to him: but these having gained the knowledge of Medicines, a freedome in making and selling, and by time pri­vileges of incorporation; the case is altered now, the Physician hath lost his faithfull servant, he is now independent, an Apothecary; yes, and a Physitian too, and thinks himself as well interessed and concerned in Physick as the Doctor and interferes with him in his practice. Freitagius checks the boldness of these men very sharply; De Abus [...] medicina pag. 97. Nimis audax impu­densque facin [...] est Pharmacopoeos scientiae quadam frivola opinione infl [...]os velle re­cta morbis remedia inconsulto medico, auc­toramento proprio, ventosa arrogantia & confidentia plus quam Cyclopica decer­nere.

'Tis strange that our predecessors had not the Prognostick of this in their heads, to obviate the mischiefe that might befall their successors; that they did not consult what might happen up­on [Page 58]on the Introduction of Sub-ordinate men, and committing the Arcana's of art to their trust; that they did not as well pro­vide against the infidelity and encroach­ments of these, as design their own ease and present conveniency. Tis plain they did not, and the ill consequents are as evident: give an inch and they take an ell; Physicians gave them the profit of Medicines, but they take the benefit of practising too, and ask no leave: the pro­priety of Medicines they challenge as properly belonging to them; the next will be a propriety in practice (they are not satisfied with their trade) they would be equall with Physitians; and having gained that, [...]es ut fi [...]nt aqua­les; aequa­les ut [...] maj [...]res cert [...]. the next endeavour is to be above them: Success begets boldness, and incourageth farther attempts; win­ners know not how to leave off their game. Many of these Apothecaries are grown very confident in the Practice of Physick, and custome which makes all things familiar, will legitimate and ap­prove them in the opinion of common people; such thriving leaders shall not want followers, tis casie to guess then what will be the issue and event of it this is a bad omen and seems to threaten the Crown; which undoubtedly will [Page 59]fall upon this faculty (as it comes on a­pace) if not timely prevented by the pru­dence and unanimous consent of the Professors. The only means to avert this ill fate: and although the Seniors that are well planted may think them­selves secure and that the storm will not happen in their days; yet they cannot but be sensible of the great encroach­ments and injuries now offered to them­selves; which will fall much heavier upon the Juniors, not so able to con­tend but must truckle.

Dr. Thomson noting the abuses in Phy­sick does not without cause charge many of them upon the imprudence of the Pro­fessors, in the il management of their own business. ‘Tis true, saith he, there are sad exorbitancies, Galius [...]al [...] irregularities and abu­ses in Physick, but who we pray have been the principal occasions of them but your selves? who have conjured up such swarms of Quacks in every place (who like Locusts eate the bread out of ho­nest Physitians mouths) by your pro­fane prescripts. — If they had better practised the Pythagotical doctrine, these things had never been; or had ye delivered your selves, as ye find fault’ Paraecelsus, Helmont, and other sons of [Page 60]art did, more aenigmatically, who fore­saw these mischiefs, and endeavoured to prevent them, Physick had flourished to this day in its splendor and beauty.

Dr. Vindiciae medicinae & medico­rum. Hodges treats upon this Subject, of practising Apothecaries; wherein he sets forth the great abuse offered to this learned faculty by such men, and shews their insufficiency for that undertaking. I shall recite some part.

‘Indeed such is the increase of the A­pothecaries company, pag. 62. that all of them cannot reasonably expect imployment, who therefore hunt abroad after Pati­ents, and prey one upon anothers busi­ness; these inconveniencies would be remedied if the counsell of a grave w [...] ­ter was observed, who adviseth the magistrate to be very carefull not to to­lerate more Apothecaries then are suf­ficient for the discharge of that profes­sion; implying that if they super-aboun­ded, they would most infallibly injure the publick, and rather then their Me­dicines for want of timely use should de­cay and grow worthless, choose [...] spend them by their own practice, and think it a less crime to harm the people then suffer any damage in their Shop [...] and when these practising Apothecarie [Page 61]have by their insinuations inveigled some to take Physick of them, as it is not improbable but that these being ignorant of the direct way of curing diseases, must necessarily hereupon spend more medi­cines then Physitians who exactly know­ing what is to be done, will not multi­ply prescripts to tire out their patients and advance their charge; so how can such Patients assure themselves that their Apothecary Physitians doe not make use of that opportunity as much to rid their shop of Physick, as them of diseases; however if the whole is cast up, such Patients will find no cause to commend the cheapness of their cure in respect of what it had been, if they had consulted Physitians; not to mention that some of these do confidently take and demand fees for their visits, besides the profitable income by their Physick. I may safely affirm that most of them can­not afford to be so charitable as to wait on their Patients without some recom­pence for their time and trouble, which are usually accounted in the price of the medicine: So then what a delusion doe they lye under who seek to these Apo­thecaries, hoping thereby to save Phy­sitians fees.’

‘This Author in the same Chapter sets forth the office and business of an Apo­thecary, pag. 55. circumscribing him within the bounds of his trade; and farther shews his insufficiency and inability for the practice of physick, notwithstanding the prescripts of Physitians upon the file in their keeping. pag. 56, 67. He likewise shews their infidelity and breach of trust with Phy­sitians by this their unlawful practising; pag. 60, 61. and the danger that does attend their attempts upon the sick; neglecting their proper busines at home in their shops and leaving that to the management of raw Apprentices; which is very injuri­ous both to Physitians and Patients. Then he inserts two edicts published by the Magistrates of Brussels, pag. 67. upon good consideration, to check the boldness of these men; and to be a pattern to other States and Princes equally concerned herein; and to manifest that it is not so much the Physitians as the peoples in­terest that the Apothecary be not allow­ed to practice.’ But if there be not a coercive power to restrain them here; and these men persist obstinate in their unlawful practice; endeavouring to bring the Practice of Physick, within the limits of their trade, as much professing to di­rect [Page 63]Physick as to prepare or sell it; then the Counsell or remedy proposed by this Author, is the best expedient for Physitians to defend themselves, and this their sacred art from being prostitute to the rude invasion of illegal pretenders; by assuming the whole business of Phy­sick themselves, as our Ancestors did, who prepared their own medicines, con­fining their secrets within their owne closets.

‘If these because of their settlement as free traders shall hereupon destroy the relation between Physitians and them, pag. 54. as if their interest did not much consist in the practice of Physitians, they will have no cause of complaint, if the Pro­fessors of Physick take their business a­gain in their own hands, and imitate the most successful practice of their renow­ned predecessors.’

TRACT. VII. The Rigid Galenist.

Galenick Physitians are of two sorts: the Rigid Galenist, and the Galeno-Chy­mist. The Rigid Galenist is so strait la­ced, and tyed up to the principles and doctrine of his Master Galen, that all his business is to understand the sense and meaning of this grand Patron: so that if he have but ipse dixit of his side, he seeks no further; That is truth, & That he thinks is weapon and armour suffici­ent to oppose all Antagonists.

This Professor he is so feeble and weak in his parts, he cannot goe alone without leading: he cannot write nor prescribe, but his Master must hold his pen: he dares not trust his own reason and experience, but is always a practiser by the book; a Scholler always, never master of his art. He drudges for the credit of his Master, never goes out of the circle of his doctrine, he thinks all Physical truths to be reposited and sto­red up in the works of Galen. The great­est perfection he aimes at is to under­stand these; accounting them the ne plus [Page 65]ultrà, the bounds and limits of know­ledge, in the medicinal science; and to goe beyond or beside them, is to stray from the Canonical truth.

He assents to all he reads, not by a well grounded approbation, and pro­bation of his own reason; but freely yields to the authority of his master, and thinks it good manners not to contradict him. He troubles not himself with con­troversie, being prepossessed and perswa­ded that the Theorems and Theses of his master are undoubted truths.

If you quote van Helmont that pro­found Philosopher he laughs, as if you had named a mad man; and wanting depth of Reason to fathom his Wri­tings; he vilifies, because he does not understand; and it makes as little im­pression upon him as Episcopal Autho­rity does upon a Quaker.

The Chymical Physitians he superci­liously looks upon as so many Vulcans: he scorns to sully himself with Furnaces, Coals and Glasses; or to keep an Ope­rator in his house for that purpose; he is no such Mechanick Professor. Those Hereticks in Physick he cannot endure; because they contradict Galen; which he accounts an absurd audacity, and [Page 66]blasphemy against the Truth.

He makes Medicines with his Pen; (a very fine Invention) his Head and his Hands being unexperienced in Medici­nal Experiments and Tryals: but the faults and errors he commits in this new way of Pharmacy, he leaves to his Cor­rector to be amended according to his discretion, and gives him authority, Fiat secundum artem. Chymical Medicines he will have nothing to do with; he cryes, they are dangerous; (but he knows not what they are) and this be­gets a Confidence in some silly Patients that he is a judicious and a wary man.

He is known by many good women in the Town, to be an able man and a safe practiser; if he does no good, he will do no harm; they know his Medi­cines to be very harmless, such as they use to make themselves, Syrups, Con­serves, Decoctions, Ptisans, Juleps, &c.

He labours not to improve or bring any additional discoveries to the Art he Professeth, but plods on in the common road of Tradition: he will tell you, he tryes no Experiments, he practiseth as they did 500 years ago; that if you be killed you die by Art, he can shew you a Rule for it, and an Ex­ample,

He thinks it not possible to out-do what is done already, and counts it an affected singularity and ridiculous pride to attempt any thing beyond the industry of our famous Predecessors. He dotes upon Antiquity, and relisheth no­thing of a junior standing: in Consulta­tion he asks you what Authority you can alledge for your determination? Not what Reason; what Example in Pra­ctice you follow, and who is your Au­thor? Not what Experience and what Reason to confirm and establish your Judgement. If he lose his Book, you must lose your Physitian; for he practi­seth not by his own Reason and Expe­rience, but by the Reason and Experi­ence of others; and hunts among his Books for an Example, which is his Rule, and without that he dates not proceed.

The Medical Art he accounts long since compleated, that there is no room left for Invention, and therefore he sits down and cuns his Lesson, he is resol­ved to be no wiser then his Masters: but the Chymical Physitians those innovators in Physick he cannot endure, because they will not be satisfied, but are al­wayes labouring for variety in Physick, [Page 68]and making new discoveries; examining and calling in question Opinions of 1000 years standing; exploding the Principles and Positions of the Antients; throwing down & setting up; he cannot approve of such disturbances and wrangling contro­versies: for his part he loves quietness, declines vain disputings, hates new no­tions, and would not be disturbed in the plain way of practice he hath learned; nor startled and justled out of his Prin­ciples by a strange unheard of Philoso­phy, and begin to learn de novo. But is willing to live and die with the old Doctrine he is acquainted with, right or wrong.

If you would know more of this mans abilities and excellent parts, ask his Apothecary; he will tell you he is the ablest Physitian in Town, if you inquire as a Patient: but if upon another ac­count, you be intimate and freely dis­coursing, he will tell you another tale.

TRACT. VIII. The Galeno-Chymist.

LIbavius distinguisheth Galenists thus: Galenici sunt duplices: quidam servi­les, Epist. ded. Becarisio. qui nihil ne latum quidem unguem à Dogmatibus Galeni sibi discedendum putant. Quidam nullius addicti jurare in verba ma­gistri, liberalem amplectuntur disciplinam, & ingenuê in Medicina versantur, ausi vel ipsum Galenum reprehendere & Hypocra­tem sicubi à vero discedunt. Manent tamen intra veterum Praeceptorum Scholae Galenicae septa, candemque medendi tenent consuetu­dinem. The distinction is good, and therefore I shall render it to every Ca­pacity: Galenists (sayes he) are of two sorts; some are servile, who think they must not dissent a jot from the opinions of Galen; (this is the rigid Galenist:) others not bound to assert the Tenents of any grand Teacher, do embrace Lear­ning and the Art of Physick freely and ingeniously, that dare to reprehend Galen himself and Hypocrates if they swerve from the Truth. But notwith­standing they retain the old Precepts of the Galenick School, and follow the same [Page 70]method of Curing. This sutes with the Galeno-Chymist, and he goes a little far­ther, for he is Chymically inclined.

To give you a description and quali­fications of the Galeno-Chymist; he is a legitimate Physitian, Philosophical and accomplish'd with Literature; and we will suppose him doctorated; an ingenious Galenist according to this description of Libavius; a practiser with Galenick and Chymical Medicines: he loves, at least he allows Chymistry to be a good and safe way of preparing Medicines; he views over the Precepts and Doctrine of this Art sometimes; he is a Speculator only, no Operator; he is not exercised in the manual operation and process of these Medicines, nor Inspector over his Ser­vants or others, to be practically expert in Chymical tryals and preparations.

I cannot say he is a True Chymical Physitian, he is only well qualified for a Tyro: he cannot direct, correct, judici­ously approve or appoint a Chymical Medicine, upon his own knowledge, but depends upon the judgement of Chy­mical Authors, and is biassed uncertain­ly by the Opinions and Approbations of this or that Writer, as he fancies his abilities. This Learned Physitian I pity, [Page 71]because he is not suis numeris absolutus; he halts upon one Leg; he must lean and rest himself upon the uncertain and fal­lacious tradition of Authors; who of­tentimes collect from one another, take up upon trust, and assert the vertues of many Medicines, of which they never tryed the process or the use. I have some reason to say this; having been de­ceived upon this score, and my expecta­tions frustrated in Medicines, after much trouble and pains in the process thereof, depending upon the verity of Tradition for my Guide: therefore say I, (Experto Crede) a Speculator in Chymistry, de­pending upon that judgement to appoint Chymical Medicines, deceives himself and wrongs the Sick; for the knowledge thereof is not gained but by manual ope­ration and pharmacopoietical experience; else his judgement is presumed, and his Prescript hazardous: he must be conver­sant in making, or he shall never be able to give a good account of them; nor can he judiciously chuse or reject this or that, to know which is a laudable good Medicine, and which is noxious or fri­volous, but by observation in the pro­cess and tryals of making, as well as in the use.

For these Reasons which might be amplified much more at large, I wish the Learned Galeno-Chymist who is Phylo­chymicus and but Speculator was Chymi­cus practicus, an Operator in Chymical Pharmacy; he would then more closely embrace the Principles and Doctrine of this profound Art, and be eager in the exercise thereof; he would not then tye up Chymical Medicines so strictly to Ga­lenick Rules; this Harness does not well fit them, it is too strait; they act more freely, generously and universally: not a methodically and at random to be exhi­bited; but rightly used, are limited and prescribed by the greatest reason; though not conformable in all points, and ad­mitting the Galenick method.

This Learned Galeno-Chymist is so knowing by his theorical inspection into Chymistry; that he judgeth and esteem­eth Chymical Medicines to excell all o­thers in their power and efficacy; that this way of preparing Medicines is ex­cellent and ingenious; becoming only, and an Art for the best and most sublime Philosophers, and truly learned men, to be employed therein. Yet this ingeni­ous Physitian is intangled in the Galenick Practice, he cannot well get out: he [Page 73]knows the Chymical Physitians are in the best way to improve the Medical Science; to redeem the Profession out of rude profane hands; and to regain the ho­nour and worthy esteem of the Profes­sors: he knows they are the most laudable practisers, and their industry and labour in Medicines is most legitimate, and ac­cording to the custom of the ancient most famous Professors; treasuring up Arca­na's, and repositing them in the custody of the Sons of Art, communicable only to the Aesculapian Family; hating pro­stitution of this divine Art: notwith­standing all this, the current of his pra­ctice runs in another Channel; and he acts not according to the integrity of his judgement and reason which informs him another Course, but biassed with the sinister perswasions of the present Cu­stom, Ease, Interest, the trouble and in­convenience of crossing the stream, and sailing with another wind; he goes on against the checks of his own reason; and he cannot but say, upon a serious con­sideration; Video meliora proboque, dete­riora sequor.

If the Galeno-Chymist shall say; I am a Chymical Physitian as good as the best; I practice with Chymical Medicines, [Page 74]when I think it convenient, and where the case requires such, and when it does not I use Galenick Medicines; nor is this practice inconsistent with a true Artist, to this is answered; in that you use Chymical Medicines, and sometimes Ga­lenick, according to the exigency of the occasion, and rightly distinguishing the Case, what is properly required, this is allowed to be rational and good: I am not so severe, to throw out all Galenick Medicines, and banish them the practice of Physick, but that some of them may be retained; yet with correction, the incongruities of Composition and insuffi­ciencies of Preparation being altered and amended. But how can you justifie the use and appointment of Chymical Medi­cines (judiciously, knowingly, per autopsi­am, and cautiously to be used) that you neither saw, nor know who was the Ope­rator that made them; he was a Cheat, a negligent, or an ignorant person, a Pseudo-Chymist for ought you know (com­monly it is so) and these Medicines are not to be given at such a blind adven­ture, but warily and knowingly.

The uncertainty and hazard a Physi­tian runs in this way of practice will ap­pear plainly, if you strictly inquire into [Page 75]these two things: first how many good Medicines are basely made and abused, that are exposed to sale: secondly, how many Medicines that stand now recom­mended for use, and daily sold; which though never so exactly made according to Prescript, are erroneous bad Medi­cines. Let a strict search be made into these two points, and then you will con­clude with me, that such a practice by unknown Medicines, is not legitimate, not rational, but hazardous: not shall you be able to discover and judge of these two points untill you be a Pharma­copoeian, and then you will see clearly the insufficiencies, deceits and hurtful pro­perties of common sale Medicines.

How oft does the common Turbith Mi­nerale, burn and fret in the Patients body from the negligent preparation? but at best is not a good Medicine, and the Mercury will revive again. The Common Antimonium Diaphoreticum frequently causeth Vomitings, contrary to the inten­tion of the Medicine and expectation of the Physitian, through the negligent and unskilful preparation of it; not gi­ving a due fixation, and expelling the im­pure Sulphur: and therefore the Galeno-Chymist is timorous and gives commonly [Page 76]under 20 grains; whereas I have given of my own preparation 50 grains with good success, and a friendly Diaphore­tick Operation.

The Cremor and Crystals of Tartar so­phisticated with Allum, quite contrary to the intention of the Medicine. Sal Mar­tis, nothing but a disguised Vitriol some­times. The fixed Salts of Absinth, Cochlear, Fraxini, Cardui, Artemis. &c. differing only in Title commonly. The Chymical Oils most of them adulterated. Indeed what Medicine can you name that is not abused; either by the meanness and de­generate condition of the Drugs and in­gredients; or leaving out something of value and price, or Subtracting its due proportions; or by inartificial prepara­tion through want of skill, care, time and pains; or by the superaddition and com­mixture of some cheap Ingredient to augment the Medicine: and he that can falsifie a Medicine best as not to be de­tected, thinks he hath attained great per­fection, and is an excellent Artist. What confidence then can you have in an un­known Medicine? What true observa­tion can you make? And what satisfa­ctory answer can you give, if a certain account of the Medicine be demanded [Page 77]as upon your own knowledge you ought to give? All that you can say is; you hope well, that it was so and so: but is not this hope presumed, more than ratio­nal; for if you inquire abroad, and exa­mine into Medicine, you will find the Sophisticate, negligent prepared and bad Medicines, to be three for one in num­ber to the compleat, honest and duly pre­pared Medicines.

These things duly considered, as very worthy of serious consideration; I am not out of hopes to see this learned Phy­sitian the Galeno-Chymist, an expert Phar­macopoeian and Chymical Operator; fol­lowing the example of Swelfer that ex­cellent pattern, and others the most re­nowned Professors of this Faculty, both ancient and modern: the Consequence will be of great advantage to the true Professors thereof; as the only means to rescue and recover the lost repute of this most excellent Art, now prostituted and laid open to all pretenders, which ought to lie only in the bosom of the Sons of Art.

TRACT. IX. Medicus Absolutus. [...]. The Compleat Chymical Physitian.

THis Jatro-chymist and Hermetick Phi­losopher, is educated from his Youth in all necessary learning to qualifie and fit him for this grand business; and that he may be introduced into the Me­dical Art legitimately according to the Law of Hypocrates. [...]. Quisquis enim Me­dicina Scientiam sibi vere comparare volet, eum his ducibus voti sui compotem fieri opor­tet; natura, doctrina, loco studiis apto, in­stitutione à puero, industria & tempore.

And having thus gradually received Literature and improvement in the Tongues and Liberal Arts; and being well grounded in Philosophy, the Prin­ciples of Nature in general, and govern­ment of the Macrocosme; he then directs his study more particularly to the body of man, and contemplates the Micro­cosme, that most admirable frame of Na­ture; the diversity of its parts and con­nexion, with the variety of harmonious Functions, all subservient to the con­servation [Page 79]of the whole, directed and ma­naged by the Archaeus or Spirit of Life, and here he is busie for some considerable time in Physiologye, as the first step in Physick.

After this he considers the requisite supports of this Machine, what is requi­red by Nature to preserve this humane body in due order, and to maintain it in strength and vigour: and now he is con­versant in the diaetetick part of Physick; appoints and regulates man in his Meat and Drink, in sleeping and watching, in exercise and rest, assignes him a fit place to live in, &c. most agreeing and suting with his body, the longer to preserve it. And as Nature does not continue long in the state of integrity and health, but declensions and disorders will arise, and this exquisite Fabrick tends towards a dissolution and decay: he then consi­ders the body of man in its preternatural state, the Dyscrasy and Alaxy wherewith it is discomposed, or liable thereto; he is therefore acquainting himself with the Pathological part of Physick, taking cog­nizance of all the diseases incident to mans body, in their causes, with the Symptomes and Phaenomena that disco­ver them: and being well verst and sharp [Page 80]fighted in the discovery of diseases and their complications; he next applyes himself and consults what is fit and re­quisite to reduce and recover back again this lost health, and vigorous state of Na­ture; first qua methodo, how this must be done, and here the methodus medendi directs and regulates him: secondly, qui­bus auxiliis with what and by what means, and that is Chyrurgical, Diaetetical or Pharmaceutical: from which three fountains he draws proper Remedies, and applyes fit means for the reduction of Nature to her pristine and integrity of Operations. And for a copious supply of Pharmaceutick means; he searcheth the Animal, the Vegitable and Mineral Fami­ly, to find out fit matter to work upon; and industriously applyes himself to the Pyrotechnical or Chymical Art, being the most excellent and ingenious way of me­dicinal preparations: he is very studious in the Scientifical or Philosophical part of Chymistry (which distinguisheth him from the Emperick Chymist) contem­plating the principles and nature of all things in their causes and effects; and to prove the verity of his speculative no­tions; he is very laborious in the opera­tive and practical part of Chymistry, more [Page 81]particularly designing medicinal Expe­riments and tryalls which makes him a perite and most excellent pharmacopoeian, daily projecting and operating in Chymi­call Pharmacy; whereby he adorns the Medicall Art, and enricheth it with a store and treasury of efficacious and most noble Medicines; Tinctures, Spirits, Essences, Elixirs, Extracts, &c. and there­fore Mathiolus well saith, Lib. 4. epist. ad A [...]driam de Blav. neminem me­dicum absolutum esse posse, imo nê medio­crem quidem, qui in Chymia non sit exer­citatus. No Physitian can be compleat, scarce an indifferent one, that is not ex­ercised in Chymistry; and Sennertus he is of the same opinion, and adds more­over; Cum enim medicus sit ille admirabilis, Cons. & dis. Chym. Cum Galen cap 18. qui quod est divinum in morbis, in medica­mentis, in natura novit, actionumque fontes investigat: ista omnia praecipue Chymiae be­neficio assequi potest: what ever is rare and extraordinary profound in nature, the knowledge of that is attained chiefly by Chymistry. And Mesue a famous Physi­tian speaks thus of Chymists; Antidota. distiect 21. they make manifest and discover the hidden properties of things; that I may confidently say, scarce any one is able to attaine to the internall knowledge of things, who is not skilfull in Chymicall operations, &c. To good pur­pose [Page 82]then does the Hermetic Physitian spend his time in Chymistry, since this is the Key of Knowledge. Wonder not then, but applaude him in the Spagiricall dissecting and opening the bodies of Concretes, in separating their Constituent parts; since this is the way to discover the hidden properties of each part dis­joyned, and to know the result of the whole in their natural composition. He makes artificial trialls to find out their Similar and dissimilar natures; their conflicts and actings upon each other, by what repugnant properties they stand at distance; and by what mediums they are united. He knows how to sepa­rate the pure from the impure; rightly distinguishing between this and that Sulphurious, Saline, Mercurial, &c. and takes what is proper to serve his turn and rejects the rest. He knows how to tame or kill an exorbitant or noxious qua­lity in a Drug or Minerall, that the ami­cable and excellent medicinal property, may more safely and clearly shew its energy. Tis he alone that knows how to volatise the fixed, and to fix the volatile; that it may serve his purpose pro re nata.

In learning and knowing these and such like artificial operations; the natural [Page 83]Chymistry of the Microcosme is rightly understood; (this art being but an imita­tion of nature) which being unknown, the art of curing is obscure and dark; and he shoots at randome, that hath not these helps to direct and give him aime in the prosecution of any disease. In the body of man, nature digests, trans­mures, separates, fixeth and volatiseth, subdues and tameth, exalts and advan­ceth, to make fit for her purpose the nu­trimental object, to serve her several uses, in the nutrition, supply and con­servation of the body: but when nature is disordered and put by, or deficient in these her daily actions, and these her wonted and necessary operations; who so sit and who so knowing to restore them again, as the most expert and sagacious Chymical Physitian; whose daily busi­ness it is to perform these operations, that he may the better understand the Chymistry of Nature, and be able to as­sist her by his art, where nature is un­able of her self to perform the work.

This learned Spagyrist or Hermetick Physitian does not despise and throw a­side the laborious Works of our famous Predecessors, and wholy shake off their Doctrine; but does respect, use and [Page 84]assert them, so far as is agreeable with the truth of later discoveries: and there­fore they do him wrong, and have a false apprehension, that think he practiseth empyrically with Chymical Medicines, and without Art established by Rules and Precepts; or by new fantastick unstable notions: no, he stands and is founded upon most certain Principles, demon­strable by sense; and is able to give the most satisfactory account of Diseases ac­cording to their Radix and Seminaries; adapting Medicines and exhibiting them most rationally and methodically, that he may most deservedly be called The Ra­tional Physitian [...].

He knows, and can manifest it; that the Medicinal Science requires alteration in some fundamentals, generally recei­ved; that many derivative Doctrines must fall to the ground; that the Profes­sors in this Faculty are not to sit down & be satisfied with the Labours of our Pre­decessors (though worthy to be reve­verenced and recorded for their great endeavours) but that there is much work yet left to be finished; and much to be unravelled, that is supposed perfect: he is therefore strict in the examination of old Tenents, and sedulous in the ex­ploration [Page 85]of truths yet undiscovered: he is undaunted in the explosion of errors, though maintained and upheld by many successions of the greatest authorities and professors in this Faculty: he stands upon the foundation and principles of nature, discovered to him by the Pyrotechnical Art: he is not only a speculator of truth; but is trained up in Experimental Philosophy, and confirms his notions by Chymical practice and sensible operations.

He is thorough-paced in the whole Theory and practice of Physick: he has a worthy esteem for Hypocrates, he makes good use of Paracelsus, and reads Galen to be acquainted with his Doctrine, be­cause a man of great fame: but above all he magnifies and bottomes himself up­on Van Helmonts Principles; yet swallows not all thats presented to him by any one; but preserves himself free, and suffers not himself to be captivated and inti­ced away, but sticks to his own reason and experiments of art, & nullius addictus jurare in verba magistri. He venerates an­tiquity, but is not over ruled and per­swaded by a 1000 years practice, know­ing that error bears date soon after the creation: authority is no convincing ar­gument, but perswades him to believe, [Page 86]where his reason cannot clearly deter­mine, nor experiment decide the contro­versie, he is well reade in the doctrine of the Schools, and is no stranger to the learning of former ages.

He speaks reverently of Universities; as becomes a legitimate son of art; and the dignities they bestow he respects in all persons, being derived from those famous Nurseries of Literature, esteem­ed throughout the world where learning is professed. He is dignified with the Doctorall title, ex meritis obtained; and labours diligently to adorn his degree with exemplary qualifications, and to e­vidence to the world that this badge and signall distinction, is not vainly confer­red and meerly titular; but a reward of vertue, and eminency of parts.

To conclude, this man is medicus re & opere; he is a Physitian indeed, suis nume­ris absolutus, accomplish'd and compleate in the encyclopaedia medica, and this is he of whom Homer speaks. ‘ [...]. Mener.’ His greatest enemy is the Chymical Empe­rick, who usurping the title of Doctor, and fraudulently personating this learned Chymical Physitian; the ignorance and dangerous practice of the one, redounds [Page 87]to the disrepute and defamation of the other; because people doe not warily di­stinguish, and rightly understand which is the one, and which is the other: but if you view and compare the characters of both persons, you may discern with half an eye, the vast difference between them, and not be deceived for the future.

TRACT. X. Whether a Physitian ought to make his own Medicines.

SOme there are who think it improper; a great indignity and below the title of a Doctor to intermeddle with the make­ing of Medicines; and such that doe so, are accounted by them mean Physitians, of the lowest rank; and that the eminent reputed Physitians scorn this way of Pra­ctice, as inferiour to their way of prescri­ption, and sending the Patient to their Apothecary. But this is an absurd opini­on and a great mistake of the simpler sort of common people: I suppose the learned and judicious party thinks otherwise; and I hope there is no Physitian either so proud as to despise a principal part of his profession; or so ignorant as to think it was not the ancient custome and generall practice of former ages. Hypocrates, Galen, Paracelsus, Libavius, Helmont, &c. the most renowned Physitians we read of both ancient and modern, were Pharma­copoeians, they were very industrious, di­ligent and careful in the preparing of their own Medicines; they did not think [Page 89]it a dishonour to be conversant in making Medicines. Famous Quercetan upon this question an medicine deceat [...]? affirmes the same: Qutrcetan. rediviv. p. 218. Hypocrates ipse eorum faciem conspuisset, qui praeparandorum suo­rum remediorum scientiam illi detraxissent, quorum utique veteres tam vigiles fuerunt custodes, ut ea nequaquam publica facerent omnibus, sed magna cautione sibi asseruarent, & filiis ac nepolibus seriatim tandem Com­mitterent, ac per manus traderent. ‘ Hypo­crates (says he) would have spit in their face, that should detract from him the knowledge of making Medicines, of which our ancestours have been such vigilant keepers, that in no wise they would make them publique, but did preserve them with great care to them­selves, and afterwards did commit them to their Sons and Nephews.’

Dr. Vindicia medicin, & medicor. c. 2. Hodges in that Chapter treating of Practising Apothecaries usurping the Physitians function begins thus: That Phy­sitians did originally provide and dispense their own Medicines, will be (I doubt not) easily granted by those who are acquainted with the writings of the ancients, wherein it is evident that Hypocrates, Galen, and the chiefe Physitians as part of their employment prepared what Physick they had occasion to [Page 90]spend in their practice: and although their strict obligation to conceale their sacred art, least it should be prostituted to the rude in­vasion of persons unqualified, might be one argument inclining them (as the most likely way for its security) to confine their business to their own closets and repositories; yet I conceive that other reasons might no less per­swade their furnishing themselves with all necessary medicines both simple and compound, for these hereby very much improved their knowledge in the materia medica, so that they were not onely able to distinguish all Plants, Animals and Minerals, and being abroad (if destitute of convenient help) readi­ly find but what might satisfie the intent in the designed cure, but to prepare and compound them till they become apt medicines for their use, with all diligence observing the seve­ral alterations which hapned in taste, smell or otherwise, by which means they were throughly informed, how to change, add, or diminish, as there was occasion, to advance the efficacy of the composition; their patients also shared in the benefit of their industry and care herein, who having committed themselves in­to the hands of those Physitians, looked upon them as the only responsible persons in that un­dertaking, wherefore they prudently consider­ing that their reputation lay at stake and the [Page 91]lives of their Patients, durst not intrust o­thers in a matter of such concernment to both, but managed all the business themselves to a general approbation.

'Tis evident that this was the laudable and most rational practice of the Ancients, where­by the knowledge of Medicines was improved, and the Physitian much advantaged by it, and the Patient secured. Had it not been the practice of Physitians to make their Medi­dicines, how had Medicines arrived to that excellency and worth? not by Prescription but by the industry and experiments of Phy­sitians in operation. And what reason is there that this should be laid aside now? That Physitians should be Novices? That the Arcana's of the Art should be trans­ferred and reposited in the hands of o­thers, alienated from the Professors? This seems very strange: Quercet. Rediviv. pag. 223. take notice what Quercetan sayes; Quam turpe est Medico, sibi Doctoris titulum arrogare, & materiam qua uti debet, modumque illius parandae ac administrandae ignorare, patique se à ministris suis superari? an ignoras, ex­perientiam rerum esse magistram? Ergo Pharmacopoeius eam callens magister erit, tu verò bruta statua Cathedrae affigeris. You see how this great Doctor charges every Physitian with the business of preparing [Page 92]Medicines, as a necessary duty that lies upon him; which if he neglects how un­worthy he is of his Title and Profession: making of Medicines therefore is no dis­paragement to a Physitian, but a credit; he does his duty; it is his satisfaction and security in practice, and a great help to increase his knowledge. Elevat Me­dici eminentiam & existimationem, Chym. in art. form. redact. si & manum & mentem adhibeat, ipseque modum compenendi selectissima arcana non solum no­rit, sed & eadem praeparet, praeparataque ipse communicet: sayes Rolfinc, it raiseth the eminency and esteem of a Physitian, if he applyes both his mind and his hand to the composing of Medicines.

But some may say; there is much ser­vile work belongs to the making of Me­dicines, not fit for a Doctor of Physick: 'tis true, he is not required to toyle in the drudgery of it, that is his servants work; but he must supervise, and see there be no neglect, mistake or abuse: he may have work-men to do the work, but in the interim he must be work-master, to de­signe the Medicine, to appoint, correct and over-look the whole business; and where the curiosity, and intrigue of the Art lies, that is to be done by his own hand, that is his Closet business. And [Page 93]truly I cannot see how a Physitian can sa­tisfie himself otherwise, if he be not present and Supervisor of the Medicine; nor is it reasonable that a Physitian should venter the Life of his Patient, and his own Reputation upon the slender care of Servants and raw negligent Boyes, who if you stand by them are apt to mistake and commit errors before your face, as I have too oft observed; what negligence is there, and what gross faults then are committed behind your back? I dare not trust my own Servants, I should be loth then to trust another mans. Examples we have had enough of the miscarriages and mistakes in medicines, which have cost too many their Lives; but how ma­ny such that never were known is not to be numbred. It is therefore the Physi­tians care and duty to have the manage­ment of the Medicine, being principally interessed therein; for he that is most concerned in a Medicine will be most careful and exact: some are concerned only in the price of a Medicine; so that if a Medicine be specious to the eye thats enough to answer his concern; but the Physitians concern is in the effects and operation of a Medicine; so that he has no way to betray his trust, but he for­feits [Page 94]his Reputation, and it is charged upon him. The designs of these two persons are very much different; and therefore we may reasonably judge there is much difference in their Medicines; the one aims and strives to cure, the o­ther strives to sell: an indifferent or bad Medicine may sell, but such will not Cure.

View the Druggists Shop, and you shall see what great difference there is in the same species of Commodity; so that the price is double and more, in the same Commodity differing in goodness: one sort being degenerate; of the growth of a Countrey or Climate producing not so good; or from a bad season of the year; or decayed by age; or damaged by im­portation and Carriage, or the like: and another sort is excellent choice ware, and scarce: and this variety you will find in most, if not all medicinal Drugs: yet all is sold, first or last; the Shop is clear­ed of all, and it is turned into Medicine.

Judge then who it is that buyes the choicest and best at the double rate; and who buyes the worst at a cheap and un­der rate. That Physitian which should buy the worst to save money, is not so much a Knave as a Fool, though he is [Page 95]both in so doing: for he lives by his Re­putation of Cures; by the operation and success of a Medicine; not by the price of a Medicine: his profit and advantage ariseth by the Cure wrought, not by the Medicine sold: and therefore he will be most exact and just, in preparing choice Medicines, according to the best of his skill, not sparing pains or cost, his own interest and design leads him to it, and I have heard the Druggist say, should all men be so curious in the choice of their Drugs, as some few Physitians that buy for their own practice, that will have none but the best; they could not tell how to manage their Trade; for above the half of their Goods would lie upon their hands: but all are not so nice in buying; they have Customers for the Trash, which they sell at low rates, and many chuse to have of this sort for the price sake.

I suppose we are now satisfied that the Physitians Medicine must needs ex­cell all others: he that makes it his busi­ness to acquire noble Medicines; that spares neither pains nor cost (as it his interest so to do) will furnish himself with the choicest Medicaments that Art can procure. And indeed, 'tis the glory [Page 96]and pride of a Physitian to be furnished with a stock of excellent Medicines; such as he may confide in; such as he has com­pleated by several tryals, and gradual alterations, to bring them to the perfe­ction he aims at; and which he hath oft proved: this man practiseth boldly, ra­tionally and securely: but he that gives an unknown Medicine, is either doubt­ful and timorous (as well he may) or else he adventures boldly, at hap hazard.

There are two sorts of Physitians, dif­ferently applying themselves to Medi­cines. The one endeavours to get skill in Medicines by reading; the other by practice in making: the first depends up­on the traditional account of Authors; the latter upon his own Experiments and Tryals. And here I must positively assert; that bare reading and studying of Medi­cines, is but imagining of Medicines, a dubious thinking and a deceitful conje­cture, but tryals and experiments in ma­king, is knowledge in medicines. A man cannot be said to be skilful and knowing in Medicines untill he hath made them: you may fancy in your study by reading, to make and compose a Me­dicine thus and thus, of such and such Ingredients, after this manner prepared; [Page 97]and think you have designed an excellent Medicine, that every thing appertaining to it will fall out well, and sute with the form of the Medicine, as you intend and have imagined: but come to make this Medicine, you will find your self very much mistaken, either in the process and manner of making, or in the proportion of the Ingredients, or their single corre­ctions and due preparations &c. You thought you were very right untill you come to making of it, and then you see your errors; so that to make this Medi­cine as it ought, and to answer your aims in it, you must at it again, perhaps a third or a fourth time before you hit it right, and make it every way compleat for your purpose: now had it not been for these tryals and repeated experiments in ma­king, you had never known rightly this Medicine, but had persisted in an erro­neous judgement. This I know to be true by often experience, both in Gale­nick, but especially Chymical Medicines, which are the most difficult.

In Chymical Medicines how often shall you be frustrated of your purpose, if your own experience in the same Medi­cine, or collateral experiments do not guide you in the process? How many [Page 98]fallacious processes of Chymical Medi­cines are extant in Print? Very many; and many worth nothing when they are rightly made: who shall understand this? Not the reader of Medicines, but the Pharmacopoeian, the expert maker only is a competent judge. You prescribe a Medicine to be made as your Author di­ctates to you, who is esteemed for a learned man, and is so: what then? But perhaps this Authour knows as little of the Medicine as your self; he had it by collection from another Author; he ne­ver made it, nor perhaps used it; but takes it by tradition, as you do from him, and commends it. This is very com­mon among Writers: do you think then our knowledge in Physick will attain to a perfection after this rate? No, this is not the way, nor does it become a legal Professor to prosecute this Course, and take up his knowledge upon trust: but put the case, Authors do faithfully and know­ingly deliver the Process of Medicines; yet if you be not an Artist you cannot make it; nor can you rightly judge of a Medicine but by the making, which dis­covers and unfolds to you the nature of it; you will be then able to determine its use, and you will know how to im­prove [Page 99]and advance its efficacy. I never yet was satisfied in, nor pleased with a Medicine, untill I had made it halfe a dozen, perhaps half a score times, and each time corrected and altered it, upon examination and observation in the re­peated use of it: and by such tryals of making, and observations in practice and use, I did meliorate and improve my Medicines: nor is it possible for any man to be knowing and skilful in Medicines, any other way but by practice in their making and use. A man may be reading of Medicines seven and seven years, and yet be unskilful in Medicines. You know Medicines, you say, by reading in your study; I wish I could do so too; it would spare both pains and cost: but I never could understand Medicines as I ought, by reading; and yet I have read over and studied as many Pharmacopoeians as you, both Galenick and Chymical: I ran­sack'd and consulted all the Authors I could meet with that treated of Medi­cines and Drugs; to inform and acquaint me with variety of Medicines and the best wayes of preparation: notwithstand­ing such a ground-work, when I came to the making of Medicines, I was but a Novice, I committed many errors, and [Page 100]threw away many medicines, that I had bestowed much pains about, because they did not please me, they did not an­swer my expectation when I had perfor­med their operations: but this time so employed was not lost: I found by daily experience and tryals, to gain know­ledge; to understand the nature of Drugs by their simple and compound prepara­tions, better then all the Books I had read, could teach me. I was satisfied then, that my Book-reading Knowledge was not comparable to this of Practice: that is but the shadow and resemblance of Knowledge; a supposing and believing things to be so; but this is a sensible, and certain satisfaction to be relyed on far be­yond that of Report and Tradition.

As it is in Mechanick Arts, so it is in Pharmacy: a man may read of building Ships, stately Houses, making of Wat­ches, or other curious Engines, many years; but if he be not exercised in the making, he will be very much to seek and very unready at his first undertaking such a work, and shall commit many er­rors, untill he be well experienced by constant practice: 'tis so in Medicines; but you will say the building and contrivance of a great Ship, or magnificent House, [Page 101]is a far greater work and undertaking then the making of Medicines: I answer, no; you are mistaken, there is more stu­dy, art and pains required, in the design­ing and making curious Medicines, far above Ships or Houses, or any other piece of artificial workmanship. That man which designs and makes Medicines aright, skilfully and exquisitely, must well understand that rare Machine of na­ture, the fabrick and contrivance of man's body; not only by the eye to know the several organical parts; their due magnitude, figure, number, situation, composition; but their offices, harmo­nious subserviencies, and all the internal motions and vital operations; then which there is no peece in nature more admi­rable: he must also know the variety of impediments, discomposure, and disor­ders of this excellent frame, and how to be remedied; and according to this know­ledge which is very intricate, must he adapt and contrive his Medicines.

What's a Ship or stately Palace to the Body of Man? nothing comparable in the workmanship or mystery of support: now he that makes a Medicine, and is master of his Art, hath the Idea of this Microcosme in his thoughts, and a true [Page 102]knowledge of all the internal operations; else he can never design his Medicines to assist nature this way or that way, and to relieve her in distress, as he ought. Besides, the Materia medica he useth, is far more numerous and various then those materials belonging to any artificial part or rare contrived workmanship whate­ver; the Physitian searcheth both Sea and Land, whats above and whats under the earth, to make medicines of to serve his purpose, and takes from animals, ve­gitables and minerals: and when he hath elected proper and fit matter to work upon, his art and operations upon it are perplexedly difficult, tedious, and un­satisfactory before he hath finished and satiated his curiosity.

He that is a true Artist in Medicines, that hath an excellent ingeny, and is la­borious; will not fit down and rest con­tented in the common traditional know­ledge of Medicines, but will be continu­ally busing himself in experiments, reach­ing forward and striving to attain excel­ling and more noble medicines, far above the common sort: and this cannot be brought about, but with indefatigable contrivance and pains in the exercise and making of medicines, after long experi­ence and manifold tryalls.

For the Galenick Medicines, they are far more easie to make, and take up much less time; yet no Physitian can prescribe these exactly, that is not verst in making, but must referr himself to the art of the Apothecary, who corrects the prescription oftentimes as he thinks fit. But gross and dangerous errors he shall commit in prescribing a Chymical Medicine, that is not a well experienced and practised Chymist. How often are ingredients ap­pointed to be decocted, that either yield not their vertue to impregnate the men­struum; or else evaporate before the de­coction be finished. How often are in­gredients appointed to be distilled, no­thing of which, at least their vertuous part intended, comes not into the recei­ver, but remains in the retort or vesica. Very often this is so, and many errors, which are committed from the insuffici­ency of the prescriber, a Contemplator of Medicines, no Operator.

Nor is this all the mischiefe; for since Physitians left making their medi­cines, Apothecaries began to practice Phy­sick; and I think the Physitian is well re­warded for deserting the principal part of his profession, and giving it to another. Medicines in ancient times was onely in [Page 104]the hands of Physitians, as the arcana's of art, now they are become a trade, and the Apothecary by this custome challengeth them as his due belonging only to him, and thinks himself wronged if he have not the whole management of Medi­cines.

But this is too arrogantly and unduly challenged. The propriety of medi­cines is not yours; but every Physiti­an may be his own Pharmacopaeian, and employ his own servants in that busi­ness if he please, nor have you any just cause to complain of him therein; you have your liberty to follow your trade of selling medicines to whomsoever will buy at your shops, and that is the intent of your imployment.

But this does not satisfie, you would engross the whole business of medi­cines to your selves (which is a Physi­tians proper business) and that Physitian who for his own satisfaction and security to his Patients takes upon him the charge and care of Medicines, is sure to have your badge and by-word, though he be very worthy and able in the Profession.

And this usage the Learned Chymical Physitian finds; but however he is not discouraged from his industrious prose­cution [Page 105]in medicinal experiments and try­als to increase his knowledge, and ad­vance the efficacy of medicines by his in­defatigable labours.

And truly I must affirm, that the best Physitians in the Nation, are or have been Pharmacopoeians; men exercised and practised in the making of medicines, whereby they become most expert Phy­sitians, most knowing and most success­ful: (and this I can make good, if you desire the proof it) and he that is not well verst and exercised in the practice of Pharmacy, is not compleat and fully accomplished, but is very uncertain in the administration and appointment of Medicines, and must give place to the Pharmacopoeian Physitian, who is solidly grounded in the knowledge of medicines, which are the instruments of Cure.

And indeed medicines is the grand business of a Physitian; that he had bet­ter be defective in any part of his Art, then in this; Non verbis, sed herbis: 'tis medicine that cures, and here must be the greatest care and curiosity in the con­trivance of excellent medicines, and this cannot be done so well as by the Physi­tians hand, or under his eye. Who so wary and carefull as he whose reputation [Page 106]must answer for the medicine in the suc­cess or miscarriage. Institutu. l. 5. part 3. 2. sect. c. 1. Nemo rectius compo­suerit medicamenta, quam medicus, says Sen­nertus, ‘none shall compound Medicines better then the Physiuan.’ And in the same Chapter he adds: praestantissimi medi­ci domi suae suis manibus medicament a compo­suerunt, & suis nominibus insigniverunt. ‘the most excellent Physitians have com­pounded their Medicines at home with their own hands,’ Galen de comp. med. which he proves out of Galens writings. Then he brings in Valeriola, though seemingly of a contra­ry opinion, yet cannot deny but the best Physitians in Galens time prepared their great Antidotes themselves, Institut. l. 5. and accounts it the happiness of that age. Then says Sennertus, & cur non sit summa felicitas, si ea medicamenta, in quibus vita hominum sita est, ipsi etiam medici componant, nec om­nia non raro indoctis hominibus committen­dum; ‘And why it is not accounted the greatest felicity, that Physitians them­selves should prepare those medicines, in which the life of man is concerned, and not all things committed as com­monly to unlearned men?’

A Physitians great business may be di­vided into these two general parts; know­ledge of Diseases, and skill in medicines; [Page 107]and little remains but is reducible hither: the latter part is as weighty as the first; and it as much concerns a Physitian, and a duty as incumbent upon him, as any part of his Science, that he ought to be as exact and knowing in this as in that: and how can this be without experience and practice in medicinal preparations? reading will not doe it; [...]. Au. Galen. de alim. fac. cannot make any one expert: you would be loth to saile in that Ship where the Pilot had only read of Navigation; so I should be loth to take Physick of him that had onely read of Medicines. Perhaps you will say, though you do not see the ma­king, yet you view it when made, and before it be given: this is not sufficient knowledge to satisfie you or secure the Patient; a medicine may be specious e­nough to the eye that you cannot blame, and yet bad enough to him that takes it: a Ship may look very faire and firm to the eye; but the builder alone is able to judge of her; he can tell where she is defective; because he knows every piece of timber, and every plank about her. So is it in Medicines, the maker alone knows whether it be good or bad, by the matter and manner of preparation. I would faine understand what true ob­servation [Page 108]you can make upon the opera­tion and effects of an unknown medicine: you appoint such a Medicine and such a Dose to be given; it works not well, it answers not your expectation: you are now at a loss in your determination; you know not whether you missed in the Dose, or whether the fault be in the Medicine; or discordant with this par­ticular person only: you know not whom or what to accuse, your self or the Me­dicine or the individuall propriety of the pa­tient: and this difficulty is put upon you because you have no certain knowledge, nor repeated tryalls of the Medicine, and you cannot say whether it were a good or a bad Medicine. And conse­quently no observation from hence. On the contrary, were this Medicine of your own making, in your owne custody, had you proved and tryed it oft, meliorated and improved it by repeat­ed preparations; you might then with much confidence and reason give judgement upon its operation, and make a certain observation, in this or that case, which otherwise cannot be done. The diversity and uncertainty of mens bodies, and peculiar natures, is adventure enough for a Physitian [Page 109]to presume on; and this is unavoida­ble: but I know no reason why a Physitian should willfully presume up­on uncertaine and unknowne Medi­cines; yea, tis great folly and ha­zard, when he may have an assured, well grounded, rationall and experi­entiall knowledge, as every Physitian ought.

But you will say, your imployment is great, you cannot visit your pa­tients and looke after Medicines too: then say I, take no more businesse upon you then you can manage as you ought: that man which hath a full practice for his own person it will be sufficient for him if he be not very covetous and is more in love with mony, then the life of his Pati­ents: but ease and goodfellowship takes up so much of some mens time, that they cannot perform the whole duty of their imployment.

Now to resolve the question; whe­ther it be a duty incumbent uyon the Physitian, as most rationall, and a part of his profession, to supervise, prepare, safely to keep and have in readinesse, Medicines for his own pra­ctice, as a great satisfaction to him­selfe, [Page 110]and security to his Patients; judge you.

I shall conclude with a piece of Sennertus who thought the preparation of Medicines very becoming and pro­per for the Physitian: Sennert. instit. c. 1. de natura Chyosiae. Neque etiam praeter dignitatem medici esse, componere medicamenta, antiqui illi viri pruden­tissimi, medicique peritissimi, satis docue­runt: qui etsi haberent unguentarios, se­plasiarios, & id genus hominum, qui fucos, unguenta & similia praecipue vendebant, ornando potius quam curando corpori u­tilia, totam tamen medicamentorum compo­sitionem ipsis non committebant. Ipsi [...]domi suae medicamenta composuerunt, neque sibi dedecori, sed laudi esse duxerunt, si rei humano generi vtiilissimae operam impende­rent, neque plus rationis manuum suarum quam animi haberent. Imo i [...]naviorum potius esse videtur, omnia ministris com­mittere; quorum vel avaritia, vel impro­bitate factum est saepius, ut medicaments praestantissima quae [...] antiqui ap­pellant, vel indoctissimis empericis com­municarentur, vel corrupta & vitiata a [...] ­thoritatem suam amitterent, nec vires ob quas ab antiquis praedicabantur, amitte­rent.

TRACT XI. The Excellency of Chymical Preparations; compared with Galenick Medicines.

BY the ignorance of some, and the knavery of others, Chymical Medi­cines are a great bug-bear with many. Upon the name of a Chymical Medicine, some strait conclude it is Antimony or Mercury or some poisonous or corrosive thing, and they are as fraid of it as if it were Rats-bane. How this Cheat is put upon the people, and noble brave Me­dicines unjustly defamed, we shall exa­mine: this comes to pass by these means: first it ariseth from ignorant and bold fel­lows (pretended Artists in Chymistry) who venter upon a small stock of know­ledge and experience in the Art, to make Medicines of minerals as Antimony, Mer­cury, Vitriol, Nitre, &c. cautiously and judiciously to be dealt with (by those only who know very well what they do) but being unskilfully and rudely prepa­red; or ignorantly and improperly gi­ven are thereby very Churlish in opera­tion, and of dangerous consequence some­times in their effects. And this raiseth [Page 112]a censure and scandal upon all Chymi­cal Medicines, concluding from hence that they are all such. But what is this to defame Chymistry, and Chymical Me­dicines; I easily grant that such abuses there are; but what does this reflect on? Not upon the Art but the Artist; not upon Chymical Medicines but the abu­sers of them: consider the person who it is, see how he is qualified, whether he be a compleat Chymical Physitian: you will find that such miscarriages do arise from bold Empericks, and Common sale Medicines; and if you will venter upon their Chymical Medicines, or Shop Medicines that you know not from whose preparation they were, you must take what follows pa­tiently, and not unjustly defame a most excellent Art, and the noble Medicines that are made thereby.

'Tis scattered abroad by vulgar mouths, and objected commonly to us, that Chy­mical Medicines are dangerous, which deterr many from the use of them, who stand in need thereof, and is not reme­diable but by such Medicines: but consi­der who they are that give out this Re­port; it is either such as have been abu­sed by cheating Medicines as aforesaid; or such that understand nothing of the [Page 113]matter; that speak ignorantly by hear­say and vulgar report, and through ti­morousness are apt to believe and credit it: or else if more knowing, are biassed by profit, and interessed in the adverse, rigid Galenick party, either as Professors thereof, or appertainers to them. But pick out a knowing man not interessed in the Profession; as there are persons of ho­nour and Gentlemen in this Kingdom that delight in the Study of Physick, and well understand what a Chymical and Galenick Medicine is: I am confident he will give the right hand and preheminence to Chy­mical Medicines; nor did I ever meet with any such yet, but did prefer the Chymical far above the Galenick prepara­tions.

Some there are that foolishly imagine Chymical Medicines so far to differ from the Galenick, as not to be made of the same matter with them; but of some dan­gerous Minerals, and venemous Drugs, that they are afraid such Medicines should come into their bodies: now herein they are much mistaken, and abused in their judgement; for Chymical and Galenick Medicines are made of the same Ingre­dients and Drugs, they only differ prae­parationis modo, in the manner of handling [Page 114]and preparing them: but 'tis a hard thing to make some doting people believe this; and some the more ingenious sort, are very suspicious of a Chymical Medicine [...]o nomine. Dr. Thomson was very sensible of this as he declares himself in these words: ‘What difficulties some of us have undergone to perswade some pre­possessed against us (that have imbibed the exitious Precepts of the Galenists) to admit of those Chymical Remedies (when we know they would save their lives) is well known to those that have been made sensible of their errors here­in: Galeno [...]ale for the very name Chymical did sound so deadly in their ears, that many in those places (where we practised) did apprehend that he who dealt in such Medicines had a design to destroy them; and that he was a Necromancer, and one that busied himself in some un­lawful Art. So far had prevailed the ill reports of ignorance, envy and slander, that this most laudable Art, and the true professors have suffered much, and lie low in the opinion of some people: but time will open their eyes that they may fee their error.’

You say Chymical medicines are dan­gerous; and if I ask you wherein, you presently tell me of Antimony and Mer­cury, as if Chymical Pharmacy was con­fined to these Minerals, and all Chymi­mical [Page 117]medicines were Antimonial and Mercurial, and these were the whole Materia Medica that a Chymist works upon: no, the Chymical Physitian is no more bound up to Antimony and Mercury then the Galenist is to Hellebore, Elaterium and Colloquintida, churlish Drugs if not well prepared. As for Antimony and Mercury (though of good use) if these were not in nature, the Chymical Phy­sitian would be sufficiently supplyed from other Minerals, and out of the fa­mily of Vegetables and Animals, to do his business. Do you think the Chymist does not make as much use, and better use of all Plants then others? I am sure he knows them better, will give you a more satisfactory account of what he useth, then any other that depends on­ly upon the Herbal; that is a traditional ac­count, not well examined nor correct­ed, but remains full of errors; not is there any firm basis assigned to ground the vertues of those Plants upon, and from which they do assurge; but praise them for this and for that (many times at random) collected from one Author to another successively: but the Chymist does anatomize the Plant, separates its parts and will make you sensibly discern [Page 118]the difference between this Plant and that; discovering their several proprie­ties in these artificial retextures; then your reason being informed by sense, may easily judge and certainly determine, for what purpose this is for, and what that; and not be beholden or rely upon the dubious reports of Authors, that ne­ver made such experiments to demon­strate the verity of their opinions. But whereas you fall upon Antimony and Mercury with a prejudicate opinion as if they deserved to be banished from me­dicinal employment; you must know that these Minerals are of good use in Physick, when an able Artist hath the handling of them; but being abused by Bunglers and Quacks, these Minerals lie under a reproach.

You say Chymical medicines are dan­gerous, and therefore they are appoint­ed to be taken by drops and grains; else they might be given in a larger quantity as Galenick medicines are, half a pint, or a pint at a Dose. Here is a fallacious scandal; you call that dangerous, which is only of great power and efficacy, that is acute and brisk in operation; that is reduced to a small quantity for the be­nefit and ease of the Patient; that a drop [Page 119]compriseth as much vertue, as a spoon­ful of another medicine: 'Tis true, these Medicines are not to be played with, as Children lick Syrup; but discreetly to be used: and therefore if a Chymical medicine be said to be dangerous, it is not so in su [...] natura, but in usu malo; not in its own na­ture, but by the imprudent use and abuse of it. 'Tis dangerous for Children to play with knifes; but when Wise men use them, there is no danger: so the dan­ger of a Chymical Medicine is in the un­skilful, careless use of it: dangerous in the hands of fools, and received from the hands of such; but prudently taken from the hands of a Physitian that knowes the preparation of the medicine, none is more safe; none so safe, because they surpass all other in amicable operation and good effects.

Chymical Medicines, you say, are not so mild and gentle as the Galenick, which are more familiar to Nature, and may more freely be used: But the Chymical is not to be used but upon extraordinary occasions, and desperate cases; accord­ing to the Proverb, A desperate Disease must have a desperate Remedy. I answer, You are much mistaken in your Opinion and Censure: Medicines Chymically pre­pared [Page 120]by a true Philosophical Artist and ra­tional Physitian, are as gentle and benigne in their operation as any Medicines in the World; and if it happen otherwise, it does arise from the insufficiency of the Artist, or the imprudence of the Patient: And such miscarriages as these happen in the Galenick Practice, and is common to Galenick Medicines as oft as Chymi­cal: But cast your Eye upon both sorts of Medicines, prepared according to the rules of either Art, and the best Pharma­copoeia's of both Sects; and you may pick out as churlish medicines in the one as the other. I shall not defend all Chymi­cal Medicines that stand upon Record in Chymical Authors; and you I think will not justifie all the Galenick; but have re­course to one that is Chymiatros [...], a true Chymical Physitian, Judicious and Expert in Chymical Pharmacy; he will produce you such Medicines of his own preparation, that you may confide in, for the grand purposes and intentions of Cure, Emetick, Cathartick, Diaphoretick, Diuretick, Cardiack, &c. as nothing can operate with more facility and amicably with Nature, in her weakest Condition, and in the tenderest age: and therefore not in desperate cases onely, but in all [Page 121]cases the Chymical medicines are of excel­lent use; benigne and friendly to Nature, various in their Kinds as well vegetable and Animal, as Mineral; so that the Chy­mical Physitian hath his choice to appoint, this or that pro re nata as the case re­quires: Moreover, herein lies the ex­cellency of Chymistry, that it can tame the greatest Poyson, and make it good Medicament, if there be occasion for it: Herein lyes the Excellency of Chymicall preparation, that the faeculent drossie part is separated from the pure and ver­tuous; the excelling parts are drawn forth and preserved, the inutile and un­useful are rejected and sequestred. Hence the noble tinctures, and reviving Elixera­ted Spirits and Essences are drawn: the Quintessence of all things is commanded by the skilful Chymist, and none but he searcheth the Treasury of Nature. Is there any thing good in Nature attain­able, that he cannot acquire and possess? Is there any thing so bad that he cannot correct and alter? If not he, then no man.

Dr. Primrose, Primrose de Vulg. Err. li. 4. ca 1. though a Friend to the Galenick method and practice; yet in his Book of Vulgar Errors, takes notice of the unjust Censure that Common People [Page 122]passe upon Chymical Medicines; Additae igitur fuerunt operationes Chymicae, ad aegro­rum solatium, artis decus et ornatum, non quidem absolutè, sed ut melius et commodius Medici Mederentur. Quaedam tamen deter­rent plurimos aegrotantes ab horum remedio­rum usu: Primum est quod putent omnia Chymicorum remedia esse valentissima, Cu­rare statim vel occidere, et esse remedia, ut vocant, desperata, citò quidem & jucunde opus suum perficere, sed minus tutò, et quan­dam post sese labem in visceribus relinquere, quae nunquam, aut vix postea eluatur. Satius autem esse putant, tardiùs Curari, modo tuta et secura sanitas succedat; sat citò, inquit proverbium, si sat bene. Verum haec en ignorantiâ istius artis originem habent, et quorundam nebulonum audaciâ, qui solum vehementissimis utuntur, et praepostera ope­ratione praeparatis, non enim quaelibet Chy­mica praeparatio cuilibet Medicamento con­venit, Mercurio dulci utimur innoxiè, codem sublimato aut praecipitato, non nisi cum vitae discrimine. Plurima enim habent Chymi­ci Medicamenta valde benigne, minimum (que) violenta: eadem siquidem est materia medica Pharmacopoei Chymici et vulgaris, ex ve­getabilibus, animalibus, mineralibus et omni­bus tam benignis quam violentis, quae in usum medicum venire solent. Praeparatio [Page 123] [...]utem Chymica in violentis quae noxia sunt, emendat, aut tollit, securiora ea gratioraque efficit: Quin etiam Cardiaca et roborantia habent Chymici quam plurima, vulgaribus saepe elegantiora.

This Author though a Galenist in Do­ctrine and Method of Practice; Eodem Cap. yet con­fesseth Chymical medicines to be the most excellent, most pleasant, and very safe; Cum igitur Medici Officium sit ut citò, tutò, jucundè curet, hand dubiè id melius faciet in­structus Chymicis Medicamentis, quorum efficacia major, et praeparationis elegantia ad jucunditatem faciunt. Here he saith, for speed, safety and pleasantness of Curing, the Chymical Physitian is best accommo­dated for that purpose.

But the very name Chymical, is a de­sperate word, and imports strange things in the Opinion of some people, which affrights them from all medicines that bear that denomination: Truly if I knew any such concealed mischief under it, as you do imagine, I should be as rea­dy to inform you, as now to convince you of your error; and to warn you of it, as now to remove that prejudice and suspi­tion which you unjustly conceive and harbour; were Chymical Medicines de­sperate Physick as you imagine, so many [Page 124]famous Physitians would not have used them, nor stood up for them: and al­though Hypocrates nor Galen was not so happy as to be acquainted with these me­dicines; yet their Disciples that embrace their doctrine and precepts, applaud and use Chymical Medicines.

Crato Physitian to 3. I [...] Co [...]sil. à Schol. Edit. Emperours, very much commends Chymical Medicines, and professeth to use them. And Erastus though a great Anti-Paracelsian, In praefat. [...]per. Anti­paracelsitor. confesseth he does not disapprove of the Chymical preparation of Physick, but praiseth and approves it. Greg. Horstius Fernelius, Heurnius, these Worthy Authors (ap­proved and followed by all the Galenists) do the like. And Sennertus a moderate man, endeavouring to reconcile these two grand dissenting parties, gives the preheminence to Chymical Medicines; but allowes of both in the practice of Phy­sick to be of good use. And Maebius a late Writer and favourer of Galenick Doctrine, speaking of the several sects of Physitians, makes some Exceptions against Chymical Principles, but the Chy­mists medicines, he cannot but extoll and confesseth, Fundament. Medicin. In praeparatione Medicamento­rum tamen palmam veterum Medicinae prae­cipiunt. ‘But in the preparation of medicines (sayes he) the Chymists win the Garland.’

Many such testimonies as these I might give concerning Chymicall medi­cines of their efficacy and safety from very approved Authors of the Galenists: I suppose now you will entertain a bet­ter opinion of Chymicall medicines; you will not think them dangerous, having the approbation of so many learned men and the most eminent Physitians of the Galenic party (to let pass the testimony of the most experienced Doctors and Operators in Chymistry) and indeed there is scarce any Physitian of known parts now, but doe freely admit of and practice with Chymicall medicines; and very oft you take Chymicall preparati­ons though prescribed by a Galenic Doctor, and coming out of an Apothe­caries shop; which you doe not perceive, because admixed with Galenick Physick: and if you can take Chymicall Physick at this rate, when the Physitian hath not been privy to the preparation, nor the Apothecary; but bought of some Shop Chymist or other whose honesty and care they trust; you may with great confidence then take them from the hands of a Chymicall Physitian and skil­full Operator; whose great business it is to prepare choice medicines for his [Page 126]own practice, with great care and ex­actness, for his reputation is ingaged for every default, nor can he shift it off and throw it upon another, because he undertakes the whole work. Nor does he aime at the sale of medicines herein, but to effect difficult cures, and to be satisfied in the curiosity of medicines which puts him upon this trouble for the good of his Patients; and therefore I need say no more of his medicines; nor answer farther to cleare this objection against Chymicall medicines, that they are dangerous: Sennert. cons. & dis. Chym. cum Galen. c. 18. only remember what Sennertus says, interest multum in Chymi­cis medicamentis, quis ca praeparavit, ‘it behoves you to know well the artist that prepares them;’ and being given by a skilfull hand you need not feare the use of them; but expect as much then as Art and Medicine can perform.

Objection. Chymicall medicines some say are a new invention, and therefore not to be esteemed equall with the old Galenick medicines.

Ans. Antiquity or novelty is no sufficient ar­gument to prove the goodness of one thing a­bove another, except in Theological truths. But in Phylosophical, if either invites to adhere, I should think new inventions [Page 127]might more perswade, upon the score of reason, to be embraced and followed then the old: but understand what I meane by new inventions; not the fan­cy of light roving wits, and the con­ceits of giddybrains affecting novelties; but the solid inventions and improve­ments of judicious Artists, sufficiently experimented and approved. Looke back upon all arts and sciences in for­mer ages, and you will see how rude and inartificiall they were then to what they are now; how polite and exqui­site now, how much compleated, by re­visings and additions, to what they were formerly in their rough draughts: you will then be convinced that the later in­ventions and contrivances by learned in­genious men, doe far exceed the first exemplars; and that arts and sciences are daily improved by new additions and ingenious alterations. And it were a shame to us if it were not so: shall other men in all ages have their inven­tions, and not we ours? why must we be tyed up from invention? I doe not see a perfection yet: there is a plus ultra: had there been such a restraint and check upon our Predecessors (to be derided for sick-brain novelists and fan­tastick [Page 128]Innovators) and they timorously had stood in awe of the rash Censure of foolish or envious people; where had all our knowledg been? we now should be groaping in the darkness of Error and Ignorance, wanting their Labours and Lights; and we had now been but lay­ing a foundation in Arts and Sciences, whereas (thanks to the great Endeavors and Ingenious Improvements and Addi­tions of Learned Men in their several Ages) we are now upon Ornament, and the finishing part, in most of them; and the hardest knotty work is past.

But I have not done with this Objecti­on yet: You say Chymical Medicines are Novel Inventions; What then? Phy­sick is not perfected yet; there is room enough for invention: there is a great deal to be corrected and altered, and there is much to be added before the Art be compleat. Pertinent to this point we are upon, Sennert. Cons. et diff. Chym. cum Gal. is that place of Sennertus, where he saith, ‘The Antiquity alone of com­mon medicines does not detract from the Chymical in the least, nor is the Chymical for their Novelty to be ac­counted inferior to the Galenical. 'Tis a foolish thing to eat Acorns, when we have gotten good Corn; And who now [Page 129]does not use printed Books which the Antients wanted, and yet were learned.’ And they themselves, which despise Chymical medicines for their novelty do use Rhubarb, Mechoacan, Cas­sia, Guajacum, Sassafras, Sarsaperilla, Bezoar stone, and many more which were unknown to Hypocrates and Galen. And they which lived before Hypo­crates and Galens time, lived well also: notwithstanding therefore the works of Hypocrates and Galen are not to be thrown away. How many most pro­fitable observations of learned Physi­tians are now extant? also how many the best compositions of Medicines, which were unknown in the time of Hypocrates and Galen, with which now the art of Physick is much adorned? all things have their beginnings, in­crease, and perfection: and nothing is invented and perfected at one time. And therefore it is our parts to labour, not only to defend the inventions of the Antients, but also as much as in us lies to prosecute those begin­nings, to enlarge and bring them to perfection. And therefore Antiquity alone is not sufficient to preferr the Common Medicines above the Chy­mical

You have the opinion of this learned man, a moderator between the Galenist and the Chymical Physitian; and he deter­mines very justly, that Antiquity does not give the prehemince to Galenick Phy­sick; but rather that it should give place to later discoveries of Medicines; these being the Revises, Compleatments and mature productions of Art; much to be preferred before the antiquated Medicines; being but rude experiments, and an induction only to greater and more artificial operations and tryals.

But I have heard some Physitians say, that they prescribe no medicine but what has been tryed and used 500 or a 1000 years: and except you bring the authority of so many years, a medicine is not esteemed nor hardly allowed by such: truly, I like their medicines never the better for their antiquity, but the worse: not therefore, despising antiqui­quity; but therefore, because their me­dicines were unpolished, rude and chur­lish, to what they are now. Our ra­tional way of correction and prepara­tion of medicines, does far surpass the Ancients. They went upon experi­ments altogether at first; and those ex­periments were not to be called rational [Page 131]as ours now, but at a venter: for they had not Analogy to direct them. But it is not so with us now; and therefore our experiments and inventions are guided by strong reason and collateral experi­ments; and we are able to set a probatum est to any new medicine, to give it credit in the world after satisfaction from our own tryals of use; and it is as authen­tick as a thousand years practice, in the judgement and opinion of knowing men; that can compare the maturity of our knowledge in these later dayes, with their indigested notions of former ages.

You say you prescribe no Medicine but of a thousand years standing: if any one should say I used any Medicine of a thousand years standing (not corrected and altered) I should take it as a dispa­ragement: but you think it is a safe way of practice, to have the authority of a thousand years to back you, much good may it doe you, per me licet; but I shall use none of your old Medicines. Truly I am so far from adhering to old medicines, that I may say, every year I practice with new medicines; that is in part; not wholy new, but altered, corrected and improved: and by such tryalls of preparation and alteration, [Page 132]medicines gradually receive their perfe­ction, and the Artist a more exact know­ledge.

But some may object; if you are con­tinually altering of medicines, what cer­tainty is there in your medicines, when you are always upon experiments and changing? to this I answer; much cer­tainty I find and satisfaction in these try­als of alteration; for thereby I fully understand what my medicine is and the nature of all the ingredients are better discovered: I see how to correct, to im­prove, and each time to advance a me­dicine to a greater perfection and excel­lency of operation. He is no Artist that either bounds himself within the pre­scription of any author, or wants ingeny to improve and meliorate his first con­trivance and invention of medicine.

It is in medicines, as in all other ar­tificial works and inventions: let an artist design any piece of work, when he has made it, and surveys the contri­vance of it in all its parts; though it be well and ingeniously done, yet he sees where it might be mended; Secundae cogitationes sunt meliores; and when he comes to make it a second time, and a third; he will not make it as it was at [Page 133]first, but he alters and varies much; his Fancy is still working to give it greater perfection, to make it more advantagious and commodious for the purposes inten­ded. Shall any one blame this Man, and accuse him with levity and uncertainty, for giving liberty to his Invention and rational contrivance, dictated to him by the revising of his former Labours? Will any one say, This man goes upon uncer­tain Experiments and Alterations? No, he works more certainly the second time, then the first; and third more certain then the second: he sees a fault and mends it the next time; he sees where his first inventions failed him; he finds by the use and daily tryal of it, where and how to make it more fit, useful and exact for the purpose the next time: So that Industry and Time makes new disco­veries and inventions to give every thing a greater excellency and worth, and thus have all Arts and artificial works encreased and improved, by the ingenious inventions and additional Contrivances of Industrious men, successively in all Ages: But they that lazily dote upon Antiquity; foolishly or wilfully suppo­sing their Copies to be perfect, and re­quires nothing but our imitation; have [Page 134]gotten a fair pretence to be drones, and live upon other mens labour.

He is not so much a Doctor of Phy­sick as a Scholar in Physick, that practi­seth altogether by the Book; that dare not trust his own Abilities, but must have the precept or example of an Au­thor to follow, and tye himself up to a Pattern, that he dare not alter: He that is a Compleat Artist, that hath the Ca­nons and Reason of the Art grounded in him by Study and Practice, he is able and sufficient to manage and contrive his bu­siness, if all Books were burnt: But do not mistake me, as if I slighted Books and Authors; they preserve Learning and Arts alive from one Generation to ano­ther, else they would dye and wither away: And by these helps we have at­tained to what Learning and Ingenuity we now call our own; for which I ho­nour the memorable worth of them. But, being once made masters of their works, sufficiently grounded and exercised in any Art: Such a man then is his own guide, he is swayed by nothing but Rea­son and Experience; that's the Basis and Principles that he is grounded on; Au­thority prevails not with him, he is able then to contradict the greatest repu­ted [Page 135]authority that hath gone before him.

When first I came acquainted with Dr. Starky (an Expert Chymist) and finding him a very acute Philosopher and experi­enced Physitian; I had a desire to see his Library, and what Authors he conversed with: In his Chamber there lay Van Hel­monts Works, and 2. or 3. small Books, which was all that ever I saw, or that he owned to have. Upon Conference afterwards and more intimate Friend­ship, we fell upon discourse of Physical Writers and Chymical Pharmacopoeia's; and as I remember, the result of his discourse was to this purpose; That to initiate and ground a Physitian in the study and practice of Physick, those helps were necessary to in­struct and guide him, untill he had acquired such a Knowledge and Experience, as made him master of his Art: Then he is no longer under the tutorage of Authors, but relyes upon his own Reason and Experiments; he is then able to correct Authors, and find out their failings.

I question not but he had read as many Books as other men, to satisfy his Curio­sity, and had suckt the marrow out of the best; had fortified his own Reason, and laid a good foundation within himself, by [Page 136]Practice and Experiments; did then stand upon his own leggs, had not re­course to this or that Author, but was able to resolve himself in difficult cases; by the Analogy of his own Experiments, and strength of his own reason; was then a Tutor and Guide to himself; able to pro­ceed and make a fair progress, where other men sate down, as their ne plus ul­tra, being the utmost extent of their Book information, and farther they cannot go: but this Artist was continually upon projection and invention of Medicinal preparations, and he had a very subtle head for that purpose: he relyed not up­on Authors in the process of his Medi­cines, but his own reason and the Ana­logy of former tryals, lead him from one experiment to another. And thus does the Philosophical ingenious Artist, who is adeptus, is also adespotus, or he is but a dull Chymist, that can proceed no farther then his Book teacheth.

But to my purpose, from whence dis­course hath led me: You say, Chymical Medicines are Novell Inventions: That I deny, except you call Novelties of 2000 years standing, as it may be proved from the Writings of credible Authors. And what if Chymistry were a new Inven­tion, [Page 137]that would not derogate from the Excellency and worth of it; Sennert. Cons. et diss. Chym. cum Gal. as Sennertus sayes, Licet hodiè primùm Chymia inventa esset; dignitati tamen ejus id nihil detrahe­ret: Sat enim antiquum quod sat bonum: nihil (que) invenire est quod non aliquando no­vum fuerit; et multa pro novis habentur, quae sunt antiquissima. But Chymical Me­dicines stand upon a very ancient founda­tion, and the professors thereof have been Men renowned in their Generations, and famous to all posterity. But were there not that Antiquity to plead for them; yet the Experience of later times, the proofs and tryals which have been made in our own times, of these excel­lent Medicines, what they have done, when others have failed; (of which we are witnesses and can attest) are sufficient to give a confidence in and relyance upon them, as the most pleasant, efficacious and wholesome Medicines in the World.

TRACT. XII. The Vertues of Catholick, Specifick and Appropriate Medicines examined; and compared with each other, in their Effi­cacy, Safety and Certainty of Operation.

Amongst the Writings of some Emi­nent Physitians and the best Philo­sophers, both Ancient and Modern, we find them to make mention of, and to distinguish Medicines by these Titles of Catholick, Specifick and Appropriate: and therefore I think it worthy of our consi­deration and debate, rightly to under­stand the verity and reason of this di­stinction, and the advantages that it may afford us by a due examination. And the rather, because the Catholick Medi­cine hath been much abused by some Pretenders of mean abilities; is thereby defamed, and become dis-esteemed and slighted in the opinion and acceptance of the People.

most pet here are that wholly deny any such thing in Nature or Art, as a Catho­lick, Universal Medicine: Others plead very high for it; and those, Men of no [Page 139]small account, but of great Learning and Reputation in the World. But to wave the Authorities of Famous Men on both sides, we will dive into the reason and probability of the thing, and prove it that way; as being more prevalent and more satisfactory, then the Reports and Testimonies of Authors affirming it. And first I shall lay open the tearms, and shew you what is meant by Catholick, Specifick, and Appropriate Medicines. Catholick is Universal, and in the full latitude and extent of the word, a Medicine curing all Diseases in all persons is signified thereby, and so understood by many: A Specifick Medicine is proper and pecu­liar for the Cure of one disease onely, and in all persons. An Appropriate Me­dicine is narrower then that, and re­strained; being adapted to one indivi­duall person, for this or that Disease or complicated Diseases, designed for his case alone, and not fit for another. But Catholick is not to be taken in the largest sense before named, when I assert the Catholick Medicine; nor is it the mean­ing and intent of the most solid and grave Writers; that stand up for the excellen­cy of a Catholick Medicine: But by Ca­tholick, is understood by them, (and it is [Page 140]my own sense) Medicamentum Poluchre­ston; a Medicine of a general use, pro­fitable in various cases and in divers per­sons; so that Catholick or Universal is not meant absolutely, but secundum quid, and is restrained to some general inten­tions of Cure useful in divers cases and diseases; and for distinction sake, to dif­ference this more general Medicine from the Specifick and Appropriate, that are re­strained and limited in their power to particular cases and persons. And fur­ther, a Medicine may be called Catholick, though it do not cure all diseases; yet may be of necessray use in all diseases: as such a Medicine that fortifies Nature radically in her principles (being well de­signed and curiously prepared) that gives assistance and strength to all the faculties; such a Medicine is Catholick and of gene­ral use, and may very profitably be exhi­bited in all declensions, and struglings of Nature contending with any disease, be it this or that: Nor does this Medicine undertake the whole Cure and exclude the use of other Medicines, though it be a Catholick Medicine. But other Me­dicines (and Catholick also) may come in and bear their part in the Cure, as the skilful Physitian shall appoint and think [Page 141]fit in their due course and order. And therefore you are not to think that there is but one Catholick Medicine, but a plu­rality of them is allowed, and that ra­tionally according to our present sense and meaning. In Purgation, that Me­dicine which cleanseth the Body of all impurity and superfluous humours, be they of this fort or that sort; that dis­chargeth Nature of all noxious matter that resides in those parts to be carried off this way; working so, not onely in one body but divers, of various and dif­ferent diseases, performing its operation with facility, ease and gentleness; this Medicine is Catholick, and may be enti­tuled universal in this Classis of opera­tion.

So likewise in transpiration; such a Medicine as excites the Archaeus to a more vigorous action; that puts the bloud up­on fermentation and separation of any impure heterogene admixture, and in­vigorates the expulsive faculty; that opens the pores of the body, and penetrates through all the parts, breathing out and dis-lodging degenerate stinking humors; that is Balsamick, resists corruption, pu­rifies and sweetens the body: and all this by a friendly Diaphoretick operation in [Page 142]divers Bodies, differently affected and degenerated; and yet successfully per­formed withall; (at least so much as can be expected in the power of Medicine; considering the capacities of the Sub­jects) this may deservedly be called a Universal Diaphoretick Medicine: and such Catholick or general Medicines as these, are attainable by art and diligent labour in Medicinal Preparations; and these are the most excellent, safe and cer­tain Medicines: And to prove what I have said, That there are such Medicines as I have now deciphered, I can pro­duce them of my own preparation, to con­vince the incredulous.

You see now what is meant by a Ca­tholick Medicine; at least what is my meaning in the tearm: and a Catholick Medicine thus understood and so limi­ted, is the Medicine I ground my Dis­course on, and make comparison with the Specifick and Appropriate Medicines; whether is more safe, more certain of operation, and efficacious in curing; the true Catholick Medicine, or the Speci­fick and Appropriate, that is particularly designed and appointed for each person and different case.

To manifest the rational designment of Catholick Medicines, and to shew you upon what grounds and considerations the true Philosophical Artist does con­trive and perfect them; take notice that he well knows & considers the body of Man, and all the internal operations sub­servient to each other in a state of sanity and health: he considers also the functions of the body disordered and depraved; the digestions vitiated and weak; (the springs of most diseases, from whence the vital streams are impure and defi­led.) He determines aright concerning the Archoeus, as dominus fac totum in the oeconomy and government of the body; how to be fortified when weak and feeble, how to be pacified and calmed when furious, raging and extravagant. He considers how many wayes Nature hath to help her self in the discharge of any morbifick matter; per vomitum, per aluum, per ductus urinarios, per cutis po­ros. From such considerations as these, as general Rules and Directions, the Rational Physitian proposeth certain scopes and intentions to be aimed at in the designing of his Catholick Medicines without respect to this or that indivi­d [...]um, but levelling at the specifick na­ture of man's body.

And for a prosecution of these inten­tions, he electeth such and such Ingre­dients proper for these several opera­tions; he corrects, prepares and fits them, operates upon them according to Art, and forms them into several di­stinct Medicines, answering the several purposes aforesaid. He tries them up­on several persons, and different cases; (but requiring the same manner of ope­ration, whether it be purging, sweat­ing, provoking Urine, Anodine, or the like.) They do not please him at first, because they work variously and uncer­tainly, discordantly with some bodies: he then begins to cast about in his mind, where the faults may be in such a medi­cine; whether in the matter, or man­of preparation: and thus by examina­tion of each particular, how congru­ous, how effectual and operative, how amicable such and such Ingredients are, being so corrected and prepared; and by this projection and scrutiny; he begins to see where and how these medicines may be mended, Nihil est si­mul & in­ventum ac perfectum. and altered for the better. He falls to work again, con­triues a better way, and perhaps better Drugs, more fit and excellent for these purposes; as time and experience by [Page 145]tryals will dictate to him. And now he makes them more artificially, and im­proves his Medicines, taking out and putting in, and variously altering as his ingenuity and reason doth prompt him. He useth and tryes them again and again, in several cases; and thus continues al­tering and making, untill by length of time and constant endeavors, he advan­ceth these Medicines to be radicall and universal; that they shall perform their several distinct operations, in divers bo­dies and different diseases, with great facility and advantage to all, that re­quire such an operation in their Cures.

Now you see what a Catholick Medi­cine is, how designed and contrived, and how it gains the desired perfection of uni­versality: Let us now compare this Me­dicine with the Specifick and Appropriate, and then you shall judge whether is more safe, certain, and effectual in curing.

Some stand up for Specifick Medicines peculiar for every disease, and proper for that only; and these say they are the the brave Medicines: I do not deny the bounty of Nature, in affording variety of Specificks; that there may be such in Nature; but the difficulty and uncertainty is in finding them out: for [Page 146]those Medicines so accounted, we find them to sail and deceive our expectation oftentimes, as others do; and therefore they are either not rightly known, or not well used. Besides what every Physitian finds in his own practice daily; we read in several Authors publishing their own Therapeutick Experiments; how many Specificks so accounted, they have given in several Diseases that have taken no ef­fect: one commends one thing, another prefers another in the same disease: and the same Specifick given to one with suc­cess, hath been given to another without any benefit. And this uncertainty not my own experience only urges; but also the reports and relations of credible Au­thors in the history of their Cures do con­firm it.

I do not speak this to lessen the bounty and goodness of Nature; or to discou­rage an industrious Enquirer from pur­suing after the knowledg of Specificks, but untill we be better satisfied in them, let us value the true Catholick Medicine as most certain to rely upon, because we ex­pect from it what is manifest in it, and fre­quently proved.

But farther; in granting your Speci­fick Medicines for every disease, there is [Page 147]some difficulty in the admission according to the common acceptation of Specificks and Appropriate Medicines: for admit there be a Plant proper for every disease, which you call Specificks; yet how are these Specificks fit for every individuum, that hath such a disease? Here you must allow of their Protean nature to vary and agree with every individual Propriety: or you must deny the necessity of Appro­priating Medicines to every single per­son: or you must acknowledg these Spe­cificks to work congruously and generally as Universals, so as to apply fitly to eve­ry individuum, and then they are Catho­lick Medicines.

Now concerning Appropriate Medi­cines, which are adapted pro re nata for every particular case; we will enquire into their worth and certainty of opera­tion, what may be expected from their peculiar appointment, above what a Ca­tholick Medicine is likely to effect. And here I must premise by way of Thesis: That the certainty of operation in any Medicine must be grounded upon the certain knowledg of the Patient, and a certain knowledg of the Medicine: both which fall short in your appropriation of Medicines; therefore no certainty in [Page 148]such Medicines; at least not so certain as a true Catholick Medicine. First, no cer­tainty in your peculiar Appropriate Me­dicine; because this Medicine so com­pounded and prepared peculiarly for your Specifical case, was never experi­monted and tryed; therefore as likely to disagree, nay more likely then to agree: because variety of composition, this with that, so far alters every particular in­gredient in its vertue and propriety, that it is not altogether the same in this, as it was before in another composition; not can the best guesser tell what will be the result of this new invented Medicine, and conjunction of ingredients; who act up­on each other in their association to alter each others Proprieties and single nature, that the product Medicine is not to be known but after tryal. Secondly, No certainty of knowledg in the person you design it for; in as much as no indivi­dual and idio-syncratical propriety is known (in point of agreement and operation of Medicine) farther then the Specifick na­ture; but presumed and supposed at ran­dome, untill the tryal of such bodies with that particular Medicine; and then the difference appears.

These things granted (as true they are) [Page 149]what certainty is there in your Appropriate Medicine, particularly appointed for this or that body, before tryal and use? what confidence can you have in it? it is but conjecturally designed; you never tryed it; it may as likely disgust and disagree with this particular body, as otherwise: What is your hopes? You will say this for the reason of your pro­ceedings; That you have tryed all these Ingredients, you know them to be ami­cable and agreeable to Nature so prepa­red; you have found them to do good in the like cases, with others; and there­fore hope that they will do well in this new composition, for this particular per­son. Pray what does this differ from the reasons of a Catholick Medicine that is designed to agree with the Specifick na­ture of Man? Your hopes is grounded upon the same reasons and probability, that a Universal Medicine is; but here is the great difference; the Catholick hath been often proved and approved; yours never; because a peculiar new Medicine. Therefore, since Appropriate Medicines, never tryed, have no more certainty, then a probability of agreement, drawn from the Specifick nature of Man, and their ge­neral use in other persons and other com­positions; [Page 150]then you must unavoidably allow the Catholick Medicine being ex­quisitely prepared & gradually perfect­ed, frequently tryed and approved; to be more safe, certain in operation, and effica­cious for its designed purpose, then any ex tempore appropriate unknown medicine.

And is not there greater hopes in a Catholick Medicine that is known and sufficiently tryed to operate well and effectually with many in that way of ope­ration it is designed; then in a Medicine that was never tryed, and conjecturally contrived to agree with an individual Nature which is occult and unknown? Therefore say I, and it is but reason; that it is more safe to be led and ruled in the designment of Medicines, by the Speci­fick Nature of Man, then by the indivi­dual vnknown propriety: And for sa­tisfaction herein, take a true Catholick known Medicine, and ten peculiar appro­priate Medicines for the same operation, never tryed in the persons for whom they are appointed; and you will finde that the Catholick Medicine (if true and not counterfeit) shall better agree, have less miscarriages, and take better effect in the ten several persons, then the peculiarly appropriate Medicines for each: So that [Page 151]a good Catholick Medicine is as well and rationally designed for 20. or a hundred persons, as your single medicine is for one person, be as circumspect as you can, and is as likely, or more likely to do the business intended: And if you desire to see the experiment of this; prescribe and prepare you ten appropriate Medicines for ten persons in different cases or diseases; requiring one and the same manner of operation or intention of Cure at that time; whether it be purging, sweating, strengthening, &c. and I shall produce one Catholick Medicine of single opera­tion in the same Classis; and we will go to tryal whether performes best.

Object. I can speake by experience that a Ca­tholick Medicine hath failed in the ex­pected success; and therefore is not so certain a Medicine to effect a Cure as you affirme.

Answ. I grant you, the first part of your ob­jection; but the inference from thence, is not good. I never said that a Catholick medicine is infallibly successful in its ope­ration: A Catholick Medicine may fail, and may frustrate your and my expecta­tion sometimes; Perhaps one in twenty or forty, may not find the usuall and ex­pected benefit as the rest receives: but [Page 152]this was the most probable Medicine to do it before tryal; this is more certain in operation, this seldomer fails then any other: nor is there any Medicine in the world that cures all, or never mis­seth its wonted success. Optandum po­tius quam sperandum tale medicamentum, sayes Sennertus: such a Medicine may be desired, but we have no hopes to expect it; if such Medicines were, Pro­vidence would be resisted, Sickness would be slighted, and Mortality baffled: but there is nothing in nature or art, that alwayes and infallibly can free mortals from their languishings and infirmities.

The best medicine in the world may fail sometimes and be frustrated of its wonted success: and therefore this does not defame or derogate from the Catholick Medicine; since there is no Medicine but does, will and must fail sometimes; but this as seldom as any; nay, more certain in operation then any, and more to be relyed on.

If a Catholick Medicine be the most certain, Qu [...]. efficacious and best Medicine; then where a Catholick Medicine can do no good, there is no hopes in any other [Page 153]medicine, but the Patient must languish under his disease.

The best Medicine in the world may sail sometimes; Solution. and a more inferiour may do what that could not in some particular cases and bodies. I have known a true Catholick Medicine to miss in its common success and excellency of operation in some one person now and then: one in a hundred perhaps shall not receive that benefit and advantage which all the rest have: what is to be done then? Is this person to be given over for desperate? No, I have then ap­propriated a Medicine which I thought might better agree with such a particu­lar body; avoiding what I thought might be disgusting or disagreeing with that peculiar nature; or something else to be added which this special case might re­quire, as the operation of the first Me­dicine hath hinted and dictated to me; and then a much inferiour medicine in point of art, hath done that in some bo­dies and complicated diseases, which a more excellent medicine could not effect. And this particular propriety of body, no man can give a sufficient reason for it; nor perhaps well understand why the one medicine failed, and why the [Page 154]other had success: so mysterious and hidden are the operations of nature in their causes sometimes, that the [...] is apparent, the [...] very obscure and conjectural; and there is no way to find out peculiar different proprieties of bo­dies in such cases, but by variation of medicines and rational tryals.

He that practiseth with Catholick me­dicines of his own preparation is not tyed up to them, that he cannot go far­ther in Cures then they will carry him, nor alter if there be occasion: he that can rightly design and work medicines up to their Catholick operation; knows how to appropriate medicines (if there be occasion) for any special case and person, as well as any man whatever: and if I should say better, the assertion is rational and easie to be proved: for, his experiments are so many in his vari­ous tryals of preparation and use, before his medicines be Catholick and radical; that he receives more satisfaction in the nature and vertues of all medicinal In­gredients, then any other, that is but a speculator in medicines, no operator: he sees and knows their various proprie­ties both genuine and artificial; their discord and concord, and Protean natures [Page 155]in several preparations and vatious associations this with that; which knowledge furnisheth him with variety of medicines for all occasions whatever; that he is never at a loss for medicines, and carries a better Pharmacopoeia in his head, then another hath in his Library: and he being not only a Pharmacopaeian and Operator in medicinal preparations, but also a Compleat Physitian; knows what to aim at in every particular and special case; he can adapt a medicine proper and peculiar (where his Catholick Medicines fail) and is as ready at this practice, for contriving and designing special and peculiar Medicines, accord­ing to such and such indications, with as much reason and facility, as any Pro­fessor in this Faculty. He is not like the Emperick, that a hath few common Medi­cines, and can do no more then that stock of Medicines he hath pickt up can enable him: the Compleat Physitian is not limited or tyed to any set forms of Medicines, Catholick or other; but he is an ex temporo man if need be; he can and does vary upon all occasions necessary requiring it: but otherwise, he preferrs the Ca­tholick Medicines; in whose distinct ope­rations he placeth much confidence, as [Page 156]most safe and certain, to make the first onset, and progress in their due order, for the eradicating of a contumacious disease.

Objection. You speak much in the commenda­tion of Catholick Medicines, but it seems strange to me that one Medicine can apply fitly to several differently disea­sed, and of different Constitutions; some are Cholerick, some Phlegmatick, some Melancholick; that which is good for one is not good for another, one must have a Medicine to purge Flegme, another to purge Choler, &c. as the di­versity of humours abound, and is the cause of this or that disease.

Answer. I grant you there are bodies differing in their superfluous humours and dege­nerate matter; lodged here or there, infesting this or that part, which causeth variety of diseases or symptomatical ap­pearances; but notwithstanding, a good radical medicine carryes all this matter off, be it this or that; not respecting the diversity of its nature: (if it lie within spear of its activity; that is if it lie in such a region of the body; where this Medicine dischargeth its operation,) for, evacuating or purging Medicines do not work elective by attracting this or that [Page 157]humour paricularly, as you imagine, and as the world is made to believe: but purgers operate excitative, fermamentive and abstersive; by excitation and provo­cation of nature to expulsion; by put­ting nature upon fermentation and sepa­ration of the pure from the impure; and by stmulating abstersive properties: and this is the nature and effect of a true pur­gative Medicine; so that there is no particular purger for this or that hu­mour; some for Phlegme, and others for Melancholy, and some for Choler; this is a great mistake; and those purgets that are so accounted and supposed peculiar attractives; as Senna, Agarick, Coloquin­tida, Hellebore, Rhubarb, Scammony, &c. most in use; are of a deleterious and vi­rulent quality, that operate per modum veneni, having a laxative venome that stimulates nature to expulsion; they do not attract this or that humour particu­larly, nor is purgation performed after that manner. From what hath been said, you may reasonably judge that the Catholick purgative medicine is not weak­ned at all, nor limited in its power by this objection; but remains advantagious for variety of bodies, and divers diseases, requiring purgation.

The Emperick is much pleased at this discourse, and thinks it makes well for him and his Panpharmacum; and that his practice is as rational as the best: but he is much mistaken; he nor his pretended Universal Medicine is not concerned here in the least; nor does this discourse fa­vour the ignorant practice and bold pre­tensions of such men; we are speaking of higher things, such as the greatest Phi­losophers and Physitians have laboured for, and diligently sought after; nor can any man rightly design and endeavour to bring Medicines to universality of opera­tion, but he must be a compleat Physitian, a solid practiser and diligent operator in Medicinal preparations and tryals; and the practice by universal Medicines, is the perfection and highest pitch that a Physitian can attain to: nor are such Medicines attained but by great labour, found knowledg, and much experience. Catholick Medicines are so far from dero­gating from the Learned Doctors; that they are the perfection and accomplish­ment of the Medicinal Art: And we read of such Arcana's aenigmatically and darkly discovered or discoursed of in the Wri­tings of the most Eminent Physitians Phar­macopoeians.

I remember the Counsel of an able Physitian and expert Chymist, Dr. Starky, my acquaintance and friend, who dyed in the last Visitation of the Plague; we discoursing how a Physitian might fit himself compleatly with a stock of Medi­cines to serve his practice upon all occa­sions. His Judgment and Advice was thus much; That a Physitian need not clogg and trouble himself with a multitude of single appropriate Medicines for all occasions; but improve the quality of a few grand Medi­cines, distinct in operation, and work them to as great a universality and large extent of operation as is possible; and such will be appli­cable in divers cases.

He was a man that had used and was acquainted with as many Medicines as most men in this profession; being a dili­gent labourer in Chymical Pharmacy, inde­fatigable in various tryals and prepara­tions: he saw the unnecessary trouble of many medicines; he had but a few in his custody, but those were excellent, and he laboured to improve them in universa­lity, that they might serve in all cases requiring such an operation. But if oc­casion required, he was not tyed up to these, but could vary, and specificate his [Page 160]Medicines for this or that purpose, at his pleasure.

The Catholick Medicines which a Phy­sitian ought principally to labour for are these: Cathartick, Diaphoretick, Diuretick, Anodyne, Bezoardick, and Restaurative. The first cleanseth and evacuates by stool; the second by or through all the pores of the body; the third by Urine; the fourth mitigates pains, allures the Archeus to rest, and bridles his exorbitant motions, which are many and frequent; the fifth resists malignity and venenous assaults; the sixth roborates and restores the vital principles. And these are the grand and chief Classes of Medicinal ope­rations, wherein a compleat Pharmaco­poeian Physitian forms his Medicines and Labours by various Experiments and gradual Improvements, that they may be adequate and answer the full intent of each Classical distinct operation in all Bodies: and such being made Catholick and Radi­cal, are standing. Medicines as Treasu­ries and Stores, from whence a solid Physitian may deduct and adapt peculiar Medicines (if need be) out of these; for­ming variety of Medicines, appropriating them for this or that special Case to an­swer [Page 161]several indications Cathartick and Anodyne; Diuretick and Diaphoretick; Di­uretick and Anodine; Diaphoretick and Bezoardick; Anodine and Diaphoretick; Anodine and Bezoardick, &c. as his rea­son prore nata shall dictate to him.

The Compleat Physitian is not tyed up to his Medicines that he cannot alter or vary in his practice; but he is confined to these Classes of operation, which are proper intentions and mediums to effect a Cure by, in a thousand Diseases: Medicines may be hundreds or thousands; but the known wayes by which Nature will re­ceive help, are but few; and although your Medicines be never so many and various, yet they must all be ranked in a few Classes, they must look the same way, and have respect to the same intention and manner of operation: Now where one Medicine can satisfie the intention and scope of such a Classis of operation, 'tis needless and a perplexity to multiply many: Frustra fit per plura, quod fieri potest per pauciora.

Nor is this practice with Catholick medicines Emperical and amethodical, as some may foolishly suppose, or others enviously scandalize; but most rationally [Page 162]founded upon the safest and best rules of Art, having a due regard to necessary in­dications, and the requisite circumstances of curing. But take notice, he that pra­ctiseth with radical medicines need not regard, must not observe so many indi­cations as is set down in the Methodus me­dendi, the common Galenick Method of curing.

The Compleat Physitian in designing his medicines, hath his Eye upon the Specifick Nature of humane Bodies (not individual proprieties which are occult), and forms his Medicines according to the fundamental principles of our Na­ture in specie, and the order of design of government of each function in Man's Body: And the reason why his indica­tions for Cure are fewer is, because his medicines are radical, and respect the vital and fundamental principles primò intentionalitèr; not humors, temperaments, qualities, and the various Phaenomena's or symptomes of Diseases from thence; save only Consequentèr: These Medicines apply to the springs of Diseases, and Cure fontalitèr; they are designed, and formed with their faces towards the vi­tall and fundamental principles of our na­ture, [Page 163]from whence as these are affected and according to the state and condition they are in, whether in fortitude, debi­lity or declension; in rectitude or devia­tion; humors, temperaments and qualities vary and alter; and divers symptomes from thence appear in several parts of the body, and again disappear; being the result and products depending upon the former in generation and continu­ance. And therefore he that manageth these Catholick Medicines, which cure à priori et in radice; regards not the mul­tiplicity of symptomatical and various productions in severall parts of the bo­dy; farther then as Characters and marks to know where and how the principles of our Nature swerve from integrity: such fall of course, and are cut down by the stroake of a Radicall Medicine, as many branches depending upon one toot.

Now Galenick appropriate Medicines which apply à posteriori, to these pro­ducts and symptomatical appearances be­ing various, they also must be many and divers; and yet but Palliative and un­certain; they lop off, but not eradicate; they may carry off and abate something [Page 164]of the producted vitious matter; but the disease remains behind in the principles of nature untoucht, that generates, de novo the like matter, or something worse. The Axiom is true; natura est morborum medicatrix: 'tis nature that cures; and you must apply to nature; how is that? to assist the vital principles, to set all things right there; the rest follows of course; humours and tem­peraments and qualities depend here, have their subsistance from hence. You must not object the diversity of Consti­tutions (as you call them) against Catho­lick medicines; that apply à priori to the fundamentals, to the springs of diseases; because Galenick, Appropriate medicines that apply à posteriori to humours and qualities are bound to observe these distinctions and many indications which the other radical medicines has no re­gard to. He that cures radically, does not regard humours; but the humour of the Archaeus which is dominus vitae he well observes, and takes notice what humour and mood he is in; whether brisk and chearful, or melancholy; whether vigorous and strong, or labour­ing, weak and declining; whether in a [Page 165]state of rectitude in the government of all the functions, or extravagant and enor­mous.

From what hath been said we may rationally conclude; that to contract the practice of Physick, into certain Classes of operation, with some excellent radical medicine adapted thereto is the compleat practice of Physick and well becomes the greatest Doctor in this Fa­culty: and he that hath purchased Catho­lick medicines in these several Classes of operation by his own design, labour and experiments (which presupposeth and necessarily comprehends all other ac­complishments of a Physitian) is bot­tomed upon his own reason and certain experiments, is not over-ruled by any Authority but is [...]; hath the whole design and mystery of Physick in his head; is a rule to himself, a Master of this Art, and a Compleat Physitian.

I might have enlarged my self much more upon this subject, but I must draw to a conclusion, and summe up the whole of this discourse in these following Co­rollaries.

That since specificks are rare, 1 Corollary. obscure and difficult to know, the Catholick me­dicines [Page 166]are best to rely on, and will do a Physitian the greatest service in the ge­nerality of his practice.

2 By how much Medicines are more Catholick and Universall in their seve­ral Classes of operation, by so much the more noble and of excelling ver­tue.

3 That Catholick Medicines of manifest operation, are most certain and safe: for, having undergone so many tryals of preparation and use to give them their latitude and perfection; are Medicines so proved and approved, that we may confide in and expect much, from former experiences and success.

4 That no conjectural appropriate medicine before tryall, hath that probability of success and certainty of operation as a Catholick Medicine.

5 That the probability and reason of your hopes in an Appropriate or Specifick Me­dicine to work a good effect in this or that special Case; is drawn from the Analogy of former Experiments, and the [Page 167] Catholick Vertues of the Ingredients ope­rating [...] in like manner.

6 That a Catholick Medicine of known Vertue and Worth, excellent in that operation it is intended and designed for; is the safest and most hopeful Medicine in any Disease where such an operation is required.

7 That the variation of medicines this with that, and adapting of them to pecu­liar cases; is but by way of probation, not any certainty above a Catholick untill tryal; and may as likely disgust as agree.

8 That a true Catholick and Radical Me­dicine is as rationally and according to the truest Rules of Medical Art, designed to operate as amicably, safely and suc­cessfully with an hundred several per­sons and cases (requiring such an opera­tion) as an appropriate medicine is for one person and case.

That humors, 9 temperaments and first qualities, do not indicate variation of Medicines; but the different propriety of [Page 168] individual and fundamental principles, forceth a Physitian to alteration and di­versity of Medicines.

10 That a Catholick Medicine not having its wonted and usual operation in some particular person of difficult and dissent­ing propriety of body; requires some al­teration to make it more congruous, or another medicine.

11 That Catholick Medicines manifest more the Excellency of Art; Specificks the work of Nature.