Medicina Britannica: or A treatise on such physical plants, as are generally to be found in the fields or gardens in Great-Britain: containing a particular account of their nature, virtues, and uses. Together with the observations of the most learned physicians, as well ancient as modern, communicated to the late ingenious Mr. Ray, and the learned Dr. Sim. Pauli. Adapted more especially to the occasions of those, whose condition or situation of life deprives them, in a great measure, of the helps of the learned. / By Tho. Short, of Sheffield, M.D. ; To which is added, an appendix: containing the true preparation, preservation, uses and doses of most forms of remedies necessary for private families. ; With a preface by Mr. John Bartram, botanist of Pennsylvania, and his notes throughout the work, shewing the places where many of the described plants are to be found in these parts of America, their differences in name, appearance and virtue, from those of the same kind in Europe; and an appendix, containing a description of a number of plants peculiar to America, their uses, virtues, &c.

Author: Short, Thomas, 1690?-1772.2005-10

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Medicina Britannica: OR A TREATISE ON SUCH PHYSICAL PLANTS, AS ARE Generally to be found in the Fields or Gardens in GREAT-BRITAIN: CONTAINING A particular ACCOUNT of their NATURE, VIRTUES, and USES.

Together with the Observations of the most learned Physicians, as well ancient as modern, communicated to the late ingenious Mr. RAY, and the learned Dr. SIM. PAULI.

Adapted more especially to the Occasions of those, whose Condition or Situation of Life deprives them, in a great Measure, of the Helps of the Learned.

By THO. SHORT, of Sheffield, M. D. To which is added, An APPENDIX: CONTAINING The true Preparation, Preservation, Uses and Doses of most Forms of Remedies necessary for private Families.

The THIRD EDITION.

With a PREFACE by Mr. JOHN BARTRAM, Botanist of Pennsylvania, and his NOTES throughout the Work, shewing the Places where many of the described PLANTS are to be found in these Parts of America, their Differences in Name, Appearance and Virtue, from those of the same Kind in Europe: and an APPENDIX, containing a Description of a Number of Plants peculiar to America, their Uses, Virtues, &c.

LONDON Printed: Philadelphia Re-printed, and Sold by B. FRANKLIN, and D. HALL, at the Post-Office, in Market-street. MDCCLI.

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THE PREFACE.

SINCE the Times of Theophrastus, Aristotle, and Dioscorides, the first Writers on Plants upon Record, that Subject has been largely canvass'd by a great Multitude of learned and eminent Authors; but in a very different Manner. Theophrastus treated of their Difference and Natures by their Parts, Affections, Generation, and Life: But Dioscorides handles each Kind in particular, gives their Names, Descriptions, Places where they grow, and their Virtues; so that he is the [...]ldest regular Writer now extant: Yet he has omitted the Descriptions of some of the most generally known in his Country, at that Time; as the Oak, Ash, Willow, &c. are with us. Galen, like our Dispensatory Writers, and many others, have only given their bare Names a Place amongst the rest of the Materia Medica, without either Description or Virtues; only adds their Temperature and Faculties. Some have given the Names, Temperatures, Virtues, History, and Figures; and mention the Authors that have treated on particular Herbs. Some have given their Descriptions and Names; but say little of their Virtues; as Pena and Lobel. Some have described the Plants exactly, but omit their Faculties; as Cesalpinus. Some have omitted their [Page iv] whole [...] History, and only concisely and nervously given [...], as Sch [...]der. Some give the general Names of a few, and some of their Virtues; and pass all the rest, to make Room for a Multitude of Exotics; as Quincy, and other Commentators on our present Dispensatories. Some have given a most exact and noble History of their different Genusses and Species; but have been very sparing in their Virtues, and wholly omitted the Uses of many; as the immortal Ray, the best systematic Botanist that ever wrote in England. To their Natural History some have added a Chymical Analysis, on which they have made their Virtues depend; as Dr. Herman, Lemery, and the great Tournefort. In writing on Plants, some have given us counterfeit Figures, says Johnson, as Mathiolus on Dioscorides; and others counterfeit Cures, as Amatus Lusitanus; which Crato says, were Potius fictae quam factae. Several have treated each only of one Plant, as Antonius Musa on Betony; Formius on Maidenhair; Blotwitzch on the Elder-Tree; Hertodt on Saffron; Scharfius on Juniper; Christoph. Petrus on the Blessed Thistle; Franci two Pieces, on Trefoil, and Wood Sorrel; Dr. Walter Baley on Peppers; M ^c Kaile on Mace; Mollenbrotius on Scurvy-Grass; Dr. Mich. Feher on Wormwood, &c. each of which forms a Kind of small Dispensatory on his favourite Herb. Some, in treating on the Virtues of Plants, have separated their Uses; putting the Internal first, and the External [...]ast. Others have Wire-drawn their Discourses still further; not only in separating their internal and external Uses; but, in different Sections, given the various Forms in which they are used, and Examples of those Forms; and, lastly, their hurtful Qualities; as Pemel of Crambrook. But this present Work not being intended for the Learned, and Gentlemen of the Faculty; but chiefly for the Benefit of the Poor, and [Page v] their generous Benefactors (tho', perhaps, the first may find some Things in it not below their Notice) I have endeavoured fully, clearly, and concisely, to collect the Virtues of the following Plants from the most eminent and approved Authors; as Dodonaeus, Turner, Gerard, Parkinson, Sim. Pauli, Schroder, Ray, Tournefort, Herman, Clusius, Dioscorides, &c. which may perhaps neither be an unacceptable nor unprofitable Labour; as it is,

First, An Essay toward reviving and restoring the Use of Simples; which are now so much neglected, that many of them are reckoned not only useless, but troublesome; to get clear of, or keep under which, the Possessors of Grounds are often put to a yearly Expence and Labour. 2. The Neglect and Contempt of a great Part of our own Plants has made Way for a Farrago of Exotics imported, and palmed on us; which, being neither of our own Growth, Soil, nor Climate, may probably not be so well suited to our Constitutions, as these produced in the same Soil and Climate with ourselves. 3. From the encouraged and increased Consumption of Exotics, and Neglect of the greatest Part of our own physical Simples, we forget their Virtues and Uses: Hence they become Strangers to us, whilst we familiarize ourselves to the Foreign. 4. As a Consequence of the last, a Disuse of our Simples has produced a great Multiplicity of Nostrums, the Possessors whereof still retain the Use of our Plants as great Secrets, and often with such astonishing Success, as may put the regular and fashionable Practisers to the Blush. 5. From this Neglect of our Simples, and running into Mixtures of a Scantling of them with a Number of Exotics; or our Fondness for Compounds, or trusting too much to the Production of the Furnaces; we must be at an Uncertainty what to charge their Effects upon, whether they are good or bad. 6. This Dependance upon Exotics, [Page vi] too many Compounds, and chymical Preparations, in too great a Measure deprives the Poor of the Benefit of the Gifts of kind Providence, to their too frequent Loss, and often Danger; and not seldom disables charitably disposed Persons, of moderate Circumstances, from doing that Service to their poor Neighbours in many slighter Disorders, that they have both a Will and a Power to do. And it lies too hard on many Parishes, who have Abundance of Poor, but little or no Trade; especially when so few now know the common Virtues of our own Herbs. It is not only a Hardship upon the Poor, that so few Simples are used in Practice, but must often disappoint our Expectation, frustrate our Desire, and the Hopes of the Sick; such a small Handful of Simples not being able to grapple with and vanquish such a Multitude of Diseases and their Symptoms; tho' it must be confessed to be a very easy Way for Tyro's to come at the Knowledge of a Profession, when a few Lines contain all Necessaries for its Practice. And, since the present small Number of Materials may suffice for Practice, any Person that can remember them may turn Physician; and Physicians may become what they please besides. Not that I would hereby encourage crowding Prescriptions with a great Number of Articles, where different Indications require it not; for so, we could never be certain what one or two Ingredients of the whole Jumble answer'd the Design; besides the Nauseousness of such Farrago's, and Bulk of Medicines, thrust upon the Sick. 7. To consult botanical Writers on the Virtues of Plants, is a Task beyond the Reach of most private Persons, on many Accounts very obvious to the Reader. 8thly, and lastly, I have not only endeavoured to give a fair, impartial View, of the Simples here treated of; but, as every Age, and every Author, on this large Subject, have made some further Discoveries and Additions; so I have thrown [Page vii] in several from my own Observations, the Communications of Friends, and from many practical Authors of the best Repute: And, had I made no other Apology, it had been enough to say, that I have given the English Reader a good Part of the Observations and Receipts communicated by several of the most learned Physicians of the last Age to the excellent Mr. Ray, in his Historia Plantarum; and of the faithful and ingenious Dr. Sim. Pauli, in his Quadripartitum Botanicum, and Cruso's Medicamentorum Thesaurus: Many Articles of the last are put together at the Ends of several Plants in the Notes.

To shorten the Work, and to bring it into as narrow a Compass as I could, and yet to render it as easy and familiar as possible, I have, 1. Omitted all foreign and imported Roots, Woods, Barks, Excrescences, Gums, Resins, Balsams, Fruits, Leaves, Flowers, and Seeds; and took in only such as are now produced in our Gardens and Fields. 2. By omitting all our own Productions, whose physical Uses we know not, the Kinds and Species of which are very numerous, and even some whose Virtues we lay little Stress on. 3. By omitting the Descriptions and Enumerations of the various Species whose Virtues we formerly knew and used. 4. By omitting such as are the Stores of Granaries, Kitchens and Cellars; as Wheat, Oats, Rye, Barley, Beans, Pease, Coleworts, Cabbages, Carrots, Parsnips, Vines, Spinages, Celeri, Shallots, &c. 5. By omitting the civil, mechanical, social, and delicious Uses of those Things treated of; as Navigation, Furniture, Utensils, Buildings, Wines, &c. 6. By omitting their chymical Analyses, Preparations and Uses. 7. By omitting their many officinal Preparations, and the various Compositions in which they are used. 8. By not separating their inward and outward Virtues and Uses, nor making distinct Articles of their good and bad Qualities, nor insisting on the various [Page viii] Forms in which they are used. 9. By omitting the many prolix Wranglings and Disputes that have been raised about their Virtues, Uses, Preparations, and Properties, for such and such Diseases, Forms, &c. 10. To consult the Benefit, and avoid the Danger, I have omitted most of the poisonous Tribe; and, of the few taken in, only so much of them as cannot well be wanted, and in that Manner wherein they cannot readily do Harm. 11. By neglecting the Qualities assigned them by the Ancients, of hot, cold, dry, or moist, in their several Degrees, and the various Mixtures of those Qualities: And also the Whims of astrological Practitioners, of the sundry Herbs being under the Dominion of such and such Planets, and when they were to be gathered, prepared, and used, under their respective, or opposite Planets, or their Conjunctions, or Oppositions. 12. By passing by the idle, ridiculous, superstitious Uses ascribed to them, against Sorceries, Witchcrafts, Possessions, and other Fooleries, the Product of distemper'd Brains, wrong Heads, and Druids, &c. 13. I have industriously concealed some of their most detestable and pernicious Uses, as how to provoke Lasciviousness, Whoredom, and Uncleannesses, unlawful and unseasonable; as how by Violence to provoke the Menses, cause Abortion, destroy the Foetus, and whatever might tend to the Increase of Wickedness. 14. I have avoided lengthening the Discourse by an useless and pompous Quotation of a Crowd of Authors, or extracting a Multitude of tedious Receipts. 15. Most of the cold Applications mentioned for the Gout, Erysipelas, or arthritic Pains, &c. are left out, knowing how dangerous and fatal they may be: Yet it is a Presumption, that our Constitutions are dwindled from those of our Forefathers, who used that Course with Safety and Success. 16. I have omitted a Rationale of the Effects and Manner of Operation of Simples. I once designed that the [Page ix] Remedies which appear to me, or I had found most successful in Practice, should have been put in a different Letter; but, as that had been forestalling the Reader's Judgment, and discouraging his further Progress in the rest, I omitted it.

Of the few Plants still retained in our present Catalogues, a great Part of their formerly experienced and commonly known Virtues are omitted; because it is objected, that our Ancestors ascribed far more Virtues to them than they really had, or deserved; but then let it be considered, 1. That various Constitutions and Habits of Body do necessarily produce a Variety and Difference of Effects in Medicines on our Bodies, as we see from daily Experience; the Bilious require one Sort, the Phlegmatic another, the Melancholic a third; gross, corpulent Bodies, and hectic, atrophic Habits, must be differently treated, and often in the same Disease. 2. The same Disorders, in different Persons, arise from very different Causes, and so challenge different Treatment, though the Diseases are the same. 3. The same Cause often generates various Diseases, as Inflammations of the Brain, Throat, Sides, Lungs, Midriff, Liver, Stomach, Kidneys, &c. 4. The same Diseases in sundry Ages of Life challenge different Treatment: What is adapted to Infancy, is too weak for the Aged: Fox-glove, Groundsel, Hellebore, Spurge, properly prepared, may be safely given to the last, but sure none will adventure them on the Stomachs of the first. 5. Things, that at one Time may be most adviseable and beneficial, may at another Time be as hurtful and mischievous in the same Disease; as in hysteric Disorders, or where the Breast is stuffed with much tough Phlegm: In the first, nervous and hysteric Things are best; in the last, Attenuants, inciding and stimulant Pectorals; but what prudent Person would advise either to be given uncorrected to Women with Child? 6. Sundry Stages of the [Page x] same Distemper require very different Courses; as, in the Beginning of a Pleurisy, the Cough must be treated with Anodynes and Incrassants; but, when they begin to spit Phlegm, Attenuants and Inciders should be used, to prevent Suffocation; or, if the Fever runs high, the Sick very Asthmatic, and spit profusely, if he takes Salt of Hartshorn, he is quickly choaked. 7. The same Distemper, in different Bodies, must be differently treated; e. g. Of two Persons in a Fit of the Stone, one must have Lubricants and Anodynes, to check the Irritation, and prevent an Inflammation; the other strong stimulant Diuretics. Of three Patients afflicted with a violent, constant, tearing Cough, in one it is catarrhous, he surely requires Incrassants and Anodynes; in another it is phlegmatic, he wants mild Evacuants and Attenuants; in the third it is nervous, and needs nervous and anodyne Things mix'd. 8. Different Ways and Employments of Life, and Use of the Non-naturals, demand a Variation in Practice in the same Disease; he who has been accustomed to nothing but Water and Milk, must have cooler Things in a Fever, than he who daily swallows Claret and Punch. 9. The same Diseases, at different Seasons of the Year, call for another Change; for Spring Fevers and Inflammations, when the Vessels are full, require larger Evacuations, and a more temperate Regimen, than in Harvest, when the Heat of the late Season, stronger Exercise and Labour, have exhausted the Body more. 10. Different Constitutions of the Air must also be considered; for in a long, moist, cloudy, rainy, blustering Season, Who will pretend to cure Intermittents with the Bark and Salt Draughts, so as the Fever shall not return as often? And in a droughty Season, with excessive Heat, no wise Man will pretend to cure Inflammations by Bleeding; but, during, and immediately after a great Frost, or during the Reign of dry, cold North and East Winds, scarce [Page xi] any Man can fail of it. 11. Different Situations of Habitation must be regarded; for the Inhabitants of low, wet, fenny Countries often want Diaphoretics more than the Inhabitants of dry, rocky, parch'd Grounds. 12. In Acutes the Tendencies of Nature toward a Crisis should always be consulted, but never opposed; e. gr. To attempt a Crisis by the Skin when Nature indicates it by the Bowels, or by the Bowels when it inclines to the Skin, would be unpardonable and dangerous Practice. 13. Different Quantities of the same Simple, produce different Effects. If Diuretics are given in too large a Quantity, by putting the Blood in too great a Hurry, they prove Diaphoretics. Purgatives, given in too large a Dose, by irritating too quickly, prove Vomits. 14. Different Forms alter the Effects of some Simples; for Elder-Bark, infused or boiled, purges; but, dried and powdered, is only a little diuretic. Green Asarum Leaves, eaten raw, vomit violently, but their Decoction, long boiled, is deobstruent and diuretic. 15. Different Preparations of the same Plant, often produce sundry Effects: A Decoction of Elder-bark purges, but its Powder does not: A Decoction of Ash-keys vomits, but the Salt of the Wood given with Diuretics is a powerful Sudorific. No volatile Plants can bear boiling; nor Astringents, or Bitters, Distillation. 16. The same Forms of a Plant's Preparation may differ in its Effects, as to the Time of its Preparation: Thus, Asarum, slightly boiled, purges; long boiled, it is diuretic: The more it is beaten, the more diuretic, and less purgative; the less it is beaten, the more purgative. 17. Plants may sometimes have different Effects, according to the different Times they are got in; all Herbs, gathered too young, abound more with an Acid than they do after. Carduus Benedictus, gathered in June, is vulnerary, but not so after: Unripe Chesnuts purge, but the ripe do not. How many tender [Page xii] young Buds are eaten in the Spring, which afterwards cannot be so used? And are not almost all physical Roots taken up either in the Spring-Time, when they begin to sprout, or after their Leaves are fallen? And what are unripe Seeds good for? 18. Different Mixtures will produce Effects different from the Simples used separately; thus Elder-bark with Syrup of Poppies is sudorific; the same is the lixivious Salt of Ashwood given with Diuretics. 19. The Time of giving them may likewise make a Difference; for white Hellebore, given in a small Dose, may be safer on a full Stomach, than on an empty. 20. The different Places of Growth of the same Species of Plant make some Difference in its Effects: Wild Arrach is drier than that in the Garden, which is cooler and moister: Sea Arrach vomits and purges more than either of the other. English Tobacco is milder than that of America, &c. 21. The several Parts of the same Plants very often have different Effects; no Wonder then that we find sundry Virtues ascribed to it. Thus, e. gr. The Leaves of Agrimony are vulnerary and deobstruent, the Root astringent, the Seed detergent and attractive. The Oil of Sweet Almonds softens and loosens; the Gum of the Tree conglutinates. Arrach Leaves cool and moisten; the Seed vomits and purges unsafely. Green Asarum Leaves, eaten, vomit violently; the Root vomits mildly. A Decoction of Ash-keys vomits, but that of the Bark sweats. Beech Leaves are cooling and binding; the Nuts are warm and moist. Betony Leaves are excellent and useful; the Root is quite loathsome, causes Vomitings and Belchings. Barberry Berries cool and bind; but the Infusion of the yellow inner Bark purges. Bullace Bark, Leaves and Fruit, are astringent; the Flowers are purging. Unripe Chesnuts purge; the Root and Bark astringe. Water Hemp Roots purge; the Tops in small Doses are alterant, but in great Doses they vomit. [Page xiii] Mugwort is an Alterative; but its Ashes vomit, purge, and sweat. Primrose Flowers are anodyne, but the Root vomits. Yellow, fragrant Primrose Flowers, are known to be cephalic; but those, without Smell, we know not their Use. Elder-tree Flowers are cordial, emollient, and discutient; the Wood binding and cooling; the Seeds vomit, open, loosen, and purge; the Berries provoke Urine and Sweat; the Leaves purge; the Bark vomits and purges. The Skin of a ripe Apple is fragrant, the Pulp almost inodorous. The like Observations I might make on the different Parts of many other Plants. 22. As a Corollary to the Whole, here we may see the great Pains and exact Observations of our Ancestors on the Parts and Uses of Plants, and how faithfully they have transmitted them to us for our Use and Benefit; which may reprove our Ingratitude, in neglecting their Discoveries. Give me Leave to add, that, after all that has been done, the History of the Virtues of Plants is still incompleat: Who dare say, that all the Virtues of any Plants are yet discovered, and that they have no more, or other, besides what we know? Of some Thousands of British Plants, we do not know the Virtues of above four Hundred: And, of the endless Tribes of Marine Plants, the little that we know of them, bears no Proportion to what we know not: Time and Chance only, not Philosophy, can make further Discoveries; but Philosophy, not Chance, must direct us to a more extensive, beneficial, safe and regular Use of them, when discovered. But, tho' we are Strangers to many, and perhaps the best Virtues of Plants, yet let us always be cautious, that our Credulity may not impose upon us fictitious, instead of real Uses.

I would here advertise the Reader, that, in several Places, for his Ease, I have thrown a Heap of the most approved Simples in the same Cases, as on Dropsy, Stone, &c. in the Notes.

[Page xiv]Some may perhaps query, Why did the Deity crowd the Surface of our Earth with such a Number of different Sorts of Plants, many of whose Virtues we are entire Strangers to, if they have any; others we are uncertain of; others the fatal Experience of many has proved to be certainly noxious; and those that we are best acquainted with, we cannot at all Times infallibly depend upon their salutiferous Effects; and by late Discoveries from improved Microscopes, we have Reason to suspect that there are yet many Genusses and Species of minuter Vegetables still undiscovered? Had it not been much better to have garnished the Earth with just so many Plants as had been necessary for Food and Physick for us, and the Creatures subservient to our Uses; each physical Plant having been suited to the Cure of one particular Disease, and so had no more physical Herbs than we are liable to Diseases?

Answ. 1. This sounds like a tacit Wish, that the Deity had been confined to our Rules and Measures; that the supreme Being, who is not accountable to his Creatures, had consulted them, that their shallow Capacity might have dictated to his infinite Wisdom. But, 2. and more directly, Had that been the Case, there had been a Defect of one of the most noble and entertaining Displays of infinite Wisdom and Goodness: Wisdom in contriving, making, and suiting, to different Soils and Climates, such a numerous Variety of Plants, all adapted to endless, and, to us, unknown Uses: Goodness, in providing and accommodating his whole Animal World with all Conveniencies and Necessaries for their respective Food and Physick; yea, for the Delight and Entertainment of our outward Senses of Sight, Smell, and Taste. 3. They afford a good Man a large Field of Meditation, even by viewing them, tho' cursorily; but especially when he attentively and judiciously considers their Variety, Growth, Kinds, [Page xv] Beauty, Uses, Nutrition, circulating Juices, &c he will rationally conclude, How manifold are thy vegetable Works, O Lord? Yet in Wisdom hast thou made them all: So that thine invisible Things, from the Creation of the World, are clearly seen, being understood from the Vegetables that are made, even thine eternal Wisdom, Power, and Godhead. 4. Who dare pronounce any of them useless, even to us? For, tho' we know not their Uses at present, yet they may be design'd for excellent Purposes, in due Time to be discovered. And tho' they should indeed be useless to us, yet are there not many yet unknown Tribes of Insect Animals to be supplied both with Food and Physick? And what is Physick, or Poison to us, may be their Food; and what is their Poison may be our Food. 5. May not this suggest a Design to us, that, as he has created such Variety of Kinds of little Animal Beings, and suited all with proper Sustenance and Helps, as we see almost every different Plant and Shrub has its own peculiar Insect to feed and cure, which, being removed from their own to any other Pasture, cannot live: I say, this hints to us, as tho' he intended to confine every living Creature to its own proper Food, without safely incroaching on the Rights of another; lest, in Time, the stronger Races should monopolize all Nutrition to themselves, to the Starving and Extirpating of the lesser and weaker Tribes, and so have made a great Chasm in the Animal Creation: Man, and the Creatures immediately subservient to his Purposes, pasturing at greatest Liberty, far more Vegetables being nutritive, salubrious, and useful, than hurtful or fatal to them, while probably it is otherwise with the inferior, lesser, and more obscure Animals. 6. Even of the human Species there is a great Variety of Tastes, Appetites, Ages, and Constitutions, to be served; hence a Necessity of many different Vegetables to gratify and answer them. 7. Had there just been the same Number [Page xvi] of physical Plants created, as Mankind is liable to different Distempers, and each Plant specifically adapted to its own respective Disease; then, 1. All Men must have been of one Constitution, Habit of Body, had the same Food, and Use of the Non-naturals, inhabited the like Climate and Situation, and followed a like Manner of Business and Rules of Life. 2. Every different Disease must have arisen perpetually, in all, from one and the same respective Cause, and been attended in all with alike Symptoms, and been always of near alike Duration; and these in all Nations, Kingdoms, and Countries, in all Seasons of the Year, Constitutions of the Air, Conditions or Kinds of Food, by Land or Sea, in City and Country: There had been no Difference between Infants, Youth, Manhood, and old Age; none between Exercise and Rest, Male and Female, Repletion and Inanition, &c. But suppose God had (which is not impossible with him) created only one, or a few Plants, to have fully answer'd all the Ends both of Food and Physick to all Mankind; yet, what must have become of the rest of the Animal Creation, both for Nutrition and Medicine, if a sufficient Supply had not been provided for them? They should either not have been created, or made to starve, and be immediately extirpated; especially Insects, and, to the naked Eye, invisible corporeal Beings. I may add, What Room had there been for human Judgment, Invention, Reasoning? Where had been one of the greatest Gratifications of our outward Senses that we now enjoy?

[Page xvii]

Mr. Bartram's PREFACE TO THIS WORK.

THE first Man that was famous for the Practice of Physick in the Grecian. History, was Aesculapius, the Son of Apollo, who practised an Age before the Trojan War, and, as they say, was so skilful in his Applications, as to cure Diseases, and raise the Dead; whereby he gained so great a Fame, as to have a Temple built to him, where those People that were afterwards cured of their Infirmities, either by his former Directions, or their own Discoveries, wrote their Method of Cure particularly, and reposed [Page xviii] it in that Temple; from whence, after Six Hundred Years, and about the Time of the Captivity of the Jews, the famous Hippocrates, who was born and lived near the Temple, in the Island of Coos, searched the medicinal Receipts, and by those Informations, and his own Ingenuity, so enlarged his Knowledge in Practice of Physick, as to be to this Day called, The Divine HIPPOCRATES; but the Christians say, that he learned his wonderful Knowledge from the Writings of Solomon, and his Treatise of Plants, which was procured from the captive Jews, or the Chaldeans, after they had burnt the Temple: However, it is certain that most Nations, tho' never so barbarous, have made use chiefly of Vegetables for the Cure of their Diseases, and doubtless with good Success; and certainly we have in our Country, a great Variety of good medicinal Plants, which may be administred to the People with great Advantage, if properly adapted to the Season, Age and Constitution of the [Page xix] Patient; the Nature, Time and Progress of the Disease: Without which Caution, it is not likely that the Practice should succeed generally. But it is very common with our People, when a Root or Herb hath been given with good Success several Times in a particular Disease, and the Patient recovered soon after the taking of the Medicine, to applaud that Medicine exceedingly; then many that are sick of the same Disease, or any other, that hath near the like Symptoms, apply directly to this famed Specifick, expecting immediate Relief; which often failing, by Reason of its improper Application, as to Time, Constitution, or Nature of the Disease, many choice Medicines grow out of Repute again, are disregarded, and little Use made of them, especially if they are common and easy to come at; whereas if their Virtues were well known, and a skilful Person had the Administring of them, who knew how to properly correct and fit them to the Constitutions of the Patients, [Page xx] and join suitable Vehicles or Companions with them, to lead them to the Parts of the Body, where the Distemper lies, then those very Herbs or Roots, I suppose, might continue or increase in their Reputation.

[Page 1]

Medicina Britannica.

1.

ADDERS-TONGUE (Ophioglossum) is a notable Vulnerary, either taken inwardly in Potions, or applied outwardly. The fresh Leaves heal Wounds and Ruptures, or the Juice given in Horse-tail Water. But its Oil made in unripe Oil Olive, either by Insolation, or a double Decoction, 'til the Herbs are crisp; then strain'd, and a little Turpentine put to it, Parkinson says is a very valuable Ointment, not only for fresh Wounds, but old Ulcers. The Herb is good for Wounds of the Breast, Bowels, habitual Vomitings and Bleedings by Mouth, Nose, or Stool. The Juice or powder'd Leaf drank in Oak-bud, or Horse-tail Water, checks Excess of the Menses, Lochia, or Whites. Its Infusion or Decoction in Red Wine, either to wash or drop into the Eyes, helps their Watering, and cures their Inflammations.

ADDERS-TONGUE. I have never seen it, nor heard of its being in this or the adjacent Colonies.

2.

AGRIMONY (Agrimonia) is a noble Hepatic, Splenetic, and Vulnerary; 'tis therefore often not undeservedly used in Disorders of the Liver, Cachexy, Jaundice, and Dropsy. 'Tis also used in Catarrhs, Coughs, and obstructed Menses: Outward it is put into Baths and Lotions. The Herb with strong Vinegar takes off Warts; its Powder in Red Wine▪ [Page 2] Plantain Water, or its own Decoction, cures such as cannot hold their Water. A Poultise of it boil'd in Wine, or Vinegar, and laid to the Cods, certainly takes off Inflammations of the Stones. The distill'd Water is a good Gargle for Ulcers of the Mouth; it is also good to drink against the Stone. Doloeus says its Decoction in Water, drank, is a Specific in Madness; in which Disease, the Ancients depended more on some Doses of White Hellebore judiciously prepared. Two or three Ounces of Ground Ivy Juice drank every Day, or Sala's Tincture or Decoction of Hypericon in Rhenish Wine, small Beer, or four Ounces of the Decoction of Anagallis flore purpureo, drank thrice a Day, all which are reckon'd Specifics in this Distemper. The Root of Agrimony dug up in May, has a most odoriferous Smell; the Herb warms and dries, is of thin Substance, opens, cleanses and strengthens; 'tis a good Stomachic and Purifier of the Blood: Its Decoction or Infusion is used in the Lues Venerea; Fomentations of it are applied to ease Night-Pains of the Joints. The Roots are good in a Scurvy, with a Laxness of the Vessels, and Toughness of the Humours; in all weak, lax Viscera; in the Lochia; in Maids and Childrens Diseases; in bloody Urine; Blood-spitting, or Dysentery; in Convulsions or Falling-Sickness. This Root may be used in Powder, Infusion or Decoction; the last is excellent in all inward Bruises or Hurts, or Stoppage of Urine; it cleanses the Breast, and helps a Cough. The Seed heals old Sores, and Ulcers of hard Cure; draws extraneous Bodies out of the Flesh; strengthens luxated or relaxed Members, and cures Ulcers of the Ears. I have often seen its Success, both as it is an aperient and vulnerary Pectoral.—For a Falling down of the Anus, foment with a Decoction of Plantain, then fumigate with Ginger-Root; lastly apply a Poultise of Agrimony [Page 3] Leaves, well beaten up with a little Red Wine and Vinegar, it seldom fails. For the Itching of the Anus, foment with a Decoction of Plantain, and a little Allum. For the Rhagades, foment with a Decoction of wild Teasel. Cruso.

3.

BLACK ALDER-TREE (Alnus nigra) Leaves and Bark are cooling, drying, and binding. Fresh Leaves laid on Swellings dissolve them, and stay Inflammations; the Leaves put under weary Travellers bare Feet refresh them much; the Leaves wet with Morning Dew laid in Rooms pester'd with Fleas, they gather quickly into them, so may they be thrown out, and the Room clear'd.

BLACK ALDER. I don't remember to have seen in this or the adjacent Provinces.

4.

ALMOND-TREE (Amygdalus) Sweet Almonds nourish and fatten much; they sheathe sharp Humours, increase Seed, are good for thin and consumptive Persons; they are chiefly used in Emulsions▪ and, if design'd to cool and compose the Body, a Dram or two of each of the cold Seeds is added for a Quart of Water or Decoction, for Drink, nor is any Harm observed if the Bilious drink of it. The fresh drawn Oil is good in Hoarseness, or Roughness in the Throat; it is excellent for the Lungs and Breast, and in Cholicks from hard Excrements, or sharp Humours, given either alone, from two to six Ounces, or in fresh Broth; it is beneficial in Pains in the Kidneys; it eases the Gripes, and is a fine safe Remedy for Infants; it softens Hardness and Dryness of the Joints, or of other Parts; it is useful to hectical Persons; and injected in a Clyster, it relieves Heat of the Urine and Privy-parts; eases Womens Pains after Labour; and, mixed with Oil of Tartar or Honey, takes off Spots of the Face, whether they come from Cold or Heat. The Gum of the Tree is [Page 4] agglutinating, and good in Bloody-Fluxes. The Meal, out of which the Oil is expressed, exceeds all Soap for whitening and smoothing the Hands and Face. Useful Linctusses are made of the Oil with Pectoral Syrups, for Disorders in the Breast; or with Syrup of Althaea and Diacodium for nephritic Pains in lean Persons.— Bitter Almonds are hot and dry, attenuating, opening, cleansing and diuretic, good in Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, Sweetbread, and Womb; chew'd and rubb'd on the Skin, they take off Spots, and ease the Head-ach; eaten before a hard Drinking-bout, they sometimes prevent Drunkenness. They are fatal to several Creatures, as Cats, Poultry, Foxes Cubs, &c. Their Oil is good to drop into the Ears. They provoke Urine and Menses, soften the Belly, and with Starch and Mint stop Spitting of Blood; with Water they are good for the Pain of the Back, and Inflammations of the Lungs; with Turpentine, Honey, and Milk, they are good in Obstructions of the Liver, Cough, or windy Cholick; Dose the Bigness of a Hazle-Nut.

5.

ALTHAEA, MARSH-MALLOWS, and MALLOWS being both of the same Nature, I shall include them in one Article, only the former is much more efficacious than the latter. Althaea Roots, Flowers, Seeds, and Leaves, soften, loosen, discuss, ease Pain, ripen Swellings, blunt and correct salt and sharp Humours. The Root is used in Disorders of the Kidneys and Bladder, in an Asthma, Pleurisy, Pains in the Bowels, &c. And that either inwardly in Decoction, Syrup, Powder, Conserve, &c. or outwardly in Poultises, Clysters, Ointments, Fomentations, Baths, &c. The Decoction or Syrup of the Leaves, but especially the Roots, is most useful for the Stone in the Kidneys or Bladder, either drank, [Page 5] or given in Clysters, Baths, Ointment, or in any other Form prepared; for, by its abundant slimy, smooth Juice, it softens, widens, relaxes, and makes the Passages slippery. It is beneficial in Coughs, Shortness of Breath, Consumptions, and Inflammations in the Breast. The Decoction of the Roots, or Mucilage of the Seeds, is good in Erosions of the Bowels, Bloody-Flux, constant griping Pains, from sharp Humours. Its Poultise or Ointment softens, ripens, and eases the Pain of hard Swellings. Its Conserve is proper in sharp Rheums, Hoarseness, and other Disorders of the Wind-pipe. Clysters of the Decoction are a Specific in a Dysentery. A Liniment made of the Roots heals chopped Nipples. A Mucilage of the Root, in Rose-Water, is good to drink for the Strangury after Blisters. The Plant seems not wholly destitute of Sharpness, for a Poultise of the Root boil'd in Water, has been known to raise some small, red, painful Pustles, which were healed by applying Frogspawn; but that might happen either from the Poultise lying on too long, or from the Sharpness of the Person's Juices, or from both. A Decoction of the Root has eased some old People in a Strangury, and others in a Gonorrhoea. The Root is an Ingredient in most cooling, softening, Pain-easing Ptisans for a violent Cough, with a watery, thin, sharpish Spittle, and in Gravel Pains with Heat, Sharpness of Urine, and Inflammation; but let Nitre be added to the Decoction. The Root is not to be used too long, lest it thicken the Humours too much. Quercetan, Lemery, and Charas, have very much improved the Preparation from this Root, both in Syrup, Ointment, and Poultise. Dioscorides recommends this Root for Wounds, the King's-Evil, and Swellings on the Neck, and behind the Ears; in Inflammations of the Breast, Excoriations of the Anus, Cramps or Convulsions; provided [Page 6] it be boil'd in Wine or Mead, bruise it and apply it; and the Decoction of it drank at the same time: Or boil'd, and with Hogs-lard, Goose-greese, and Turpentine, reduced to an Ointment, it cures Inflammations in the Womb, which are cleansed by a Decoction after the Birth; its Decoction in Vinegar, for a Gargle, cures the Tooth-ach. The Seed, mix'd with Vinegar, clears the Skin from Morphew, or other Discolourings.— Mallows are possessed of the same Virtues, but in a lower Degree, and may be used where the other is not to be got: A Decoction of either, with Parsley and Fennel-roots, loosens the Belly, and brings Plenty of Milk into Nurses Breasts. A Decoction of common Mallow-Seed, in Wine or Milk, is fitter for hot Diseases in the Breast, than of Marsh-Mallows, if to drink for some Time. An Ointment of the Leaves with Camphire, is good for the Achores. The Leaves, bruised and rubb'd on any Part stung with Bees or Wasps, take off Pain, Redness, and Swelling. A Poultise of the bruised Leaves, boil'd in Oil of Roses, with Bean and Barley-Flour, is good against hard Swellings and Inflammations, Imposthumes or Tumours of the Cods, and other Parts, or of the Liver and Spleen, and eases their Pain. Mallow-Juice, boiled in old Oil, and apply'd, cures the Roughness of the Skin, Scurfs and dry Scabs of the Head, and other Parts, and Falling off of the Hair; and is good for Scalds and Burns; and for hot, red, and painful Swellings in any Part. A Decoction of the Flowers, with a little Honey and Allum, makes a good Gargle for a sore Throat. A Decoction of the Leaves is a fine Pediluvium for Rheums and Waterings. Mallow-Tops, boil'd in Milk, and drank, ease the Gripes in a Dysentery, take off the Heat and Tension of the Belly, check the Blood, and sometimes cure the Disease. I have known some Rustics, in a Fit of the Stone, dissolve [Page 7] an Ounce of Althaea Ointment in warm Drink, and swallow it, with surprizing Success. ^*

6.

ALISANDERS, (Hipposelinum) (falsly called Macedonian Parsley) the Herb is eaten in the Spring to purify the Blood; the Root digests Crudity, and viscous Humours on a cold Stomach, and by its Bitterness opens Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, and Womb; it expels Birth and After-birth; breaks Wind; provokes Urine, and removes its Obstructions: The like does the Seed if boil'd, or drank [Page 8] in Wine; it is good in cold and phlegmatic Diseases; but far short of Master-wort or Lovage. It is commended against the Sciatica; but outwardly, I should sooner trust a Liniment of Castile Soap and Brandy, with powder'd Camphire, to anoint the Part with, Evening and Morning; or Leaves of Crowsfoot bruised and laid six Hours on the Region of the Loins, till they raise a Blister: Or an Ointment of Opodeldoch, with Ants Eggs: Or a Poultise of white Bryony Root, with Linseed Oil, kept on the Part, which perhaps may be as proper for a Sciatica, as bruised Ants Eggs, with the Juice of an Onion, and Gall of an Eel, with Spirit of Wine, mixed and dropped into the Ear twice a Day for Deafness.

ALISANDERS. Is a Garden Herb, but not in our Gardens in this Province.

7.

ANGELICA, the Root is an Alexipharmac and noble Cordial.—The Herb, but especially the Seed and Root, warm, dry, open, thin, are sudorfic [Page 9] and vulnerary. It provokes the Menses, expels Birth and After-birth; it is good in Hysterics, resists malignant and contagious Diseases, Poisons, and Plague; if the Root is infused in Vinegar, held to the Nose, chew'd in the Mouth, kept under the Tongue, drank in Vinegar, or taken in Powder, or Infusion. To cure the Plague, a Dram of the Powder, or Half a Dram of it, and a Dram of Venice Treacle, is drank in small Wine, or Carduus Water, the Person must sweat plentifully after, and let it be repeated every six Hours. The candied Root, or young Stalks, are used as a Stomachic; it prevents Infection, and heals cold Diseases of the Breast; Chewing it helps a disagreeable Breath; it is good against Acidities, and in Diseases of the Head and Womb therefrom. The Tops and Seeds infused in Brandy, or Water drawn from them, with Spirits, is Stomachic and Cordial, revives the Spirits, takes off Head-ach, Dulness, Drowsiness, and Vapours. The Root or Seed dissolves tough Phlegm, eases Pains caused by it, opens Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, and cures the Jaundice. It is used outwardly in Baths and Poultises for the Uterus and Pudenda, and in Wound Plaisters and Ointments: Some use it instead of Pepper, which seems a good Exchange. It is too hot for very lean hectical and consumptive Persons; Half a Dram of the Powder causes Sweat; the Dose repeated brings the Menses. Juice of Lovage Leaves expels the retain'd After-Birth; a Syrup may be made of it without boiling, to use in Winter. Half a Dram of powder'd Angelica Root or Seed warms a cold Stomach, promotes Digestion, wastes superfluous Moisture and raw Humours, expels Wind, and eases Pains and Gripes, except from harden'd Excrements: The bruised green Root, made into a Tea, is good in Agues, and is said to quench Thirst. The distill'd [Page 10] Water is a good Gargle in a Qunsey; and dropped into the Eyes, cures Redness and Dimness; and Spots and Freckles on the Face, by washing with it. Lovage Leaves, bruised and fry'd in Hogs-lard, quickly ripen and break Boils. Angelica is a good Herb in nephritic Pains, and a good female Plant; it is proper in Surfeits; increases Milk in Nurses, and Seed in Men. A learned and pious Divine highly prized the following Salve, and did much Service with it both to Poor and Rich, in flatulent, nephritic, hysteric, and convulsive Cholicks, Gripes, Stomach Pains, Want of Appetite and Digestion, Pains, Aches, and Swelling from Cold. Take Root of Angelica, Saxifrage, Avens, Elacampane, Lovage, Masterwort, Burnet, Spignel (Meum) of each one Ounce; Leaves of Hart's-tongue, Maiden-hair, Baume, Rue, Wormwood, Coastmary, sweet Maudlin, Marygold, Plantain, Lavender, spotted Lungwort, Sage, Ground-Ivy, Millefoil, Germander, Burnet, Golden-Rod, Saxifrage, Holly Tree Leaves, of each a Pugil; Flowers of Camomile Jessamine, Lavender, Broom, Elder, Violets, Marygold, of each Half a Handful; Seeds of Gromwell, Dill, Anise, Caraway, Cummin, Wild Carrots, Parsley, Grains of Paradise, of each one Ounce. Slice the Roots, cut the Herbs, bruise the Seeds, let all be mixed and well beaten in a Mortar; put the third Part of the whole in what Quantity of the best new Butter the Maker pleases; boil them slowly in a close-covered earthen Pot, till the Herbs are crisp; then strain them out, and put in another third Part of the Ingredients, boil and strain as before; then put in the last third Part; when that is boiled, and strained out, add one Ounce of Bees Wax to each Pound; divide the warm Ointment in two Parts, the one for inward, the other for outward Use; to the former may be added any proper chymical Oils, and cover the Pot close with a clean Bladder tied down, [Page 11] and set in a cool Place. Dose from two Drams to an Ounce, in any warm Liquor, at going to Bed: To the latter may be added either warming Oils or Spirits, as there is Occasion. The great Number of Ingredients is fully compensated by its surprising Efficacy, and it need only be made once a Year.

8.

APPLES are grateful and useful to hot and bilious Stomachs, but not to the cold, moist and flatulent; eaten raw, they move the Belly a little. A Poultise of roasted sweet Apples, with Powder of Frankincense, is good in a pricking Pain of the Side; or a Poultise of the same Apples boil'd in Plantain Water to a Pulp, then mixed with Milk, and applied, takes fresh Marks of Gun-powder out of the Skin. Boil'd or roasted Apples, eaten with Rose-Water and Sugar, or with a little Butter, is a pleasant cooling Diet for feverish People. An Infusion of sliced Apples with their Skins in boiling Water, a Crust of Bread, some Barley, and a little Mace, is a proper cooling Drink in Fevers. Roasted Apples, eaten with Frankinencse, are good in an Asthma, Apples, eaten raw, roasted or boil'd, are good in Inflammations of the Lungs, Breast, and Sides, or in Consumptions. Their Syrup is a good Cordial in Faintings, Palpitations, and Melancholy. The Pulp of boil'd or rotten Apples in a Poultise, is good for inflamed Eyes, either applied alone, or with Womens, Asses, Goats, or Cows Milk, or with Rose or Fennel Waters. The Pulp of five or six roasted Apples, beaten up with a Wine Quart of Water, to Lambs Wool, and the whole drank at Night in an Hour's Space, cures in one Night such as make Urine by Drops, with racking Pain and Heat; if it cure not the first Time, repeat it the next Night, and it never yet fail'd, says Gerard: I knew it try'd, and it succeeded [Page 12] exactly. Apples differ according to their Taste; the Sweet loosen the Belly, the Sour bind it, and provoke Urine; the Rough strengthen both Stomach and Bowels.— Crabs are very rough, acid, and astringent; their Juice is used instead of Vinegar; it makes Fish boil'd in it firmer and better tasted. Crab Juice and Barm laid to Inflammations are useful, or the Juice dropped into inflamed Eyes; it is a proper Wash for scrophulous Ulcers, if they are wrapped up after in Wool, moisten'd with Neatsfoot Oil; they bind the Belly, and strengthen the Stomach of longing Women. A Decoction of the Leaves is a proper Gargle for the Mouth when dry, rough and furr'd in hot Fevers, nor is it amiss if they swallow a little of it; their Verjuice is good for Heat and Weakness of the Stomach, and for great Belchings and Vomitings. Cloths wet in the Juice, and applied, draw Fire out of Burns, &c.

9.

APRICOTS (Armeniaca) they are better than Peaches; they neither putrify, nor turn acid, so soon on the Stomach, and are generally sweeter, and more grateful to it; but too great Freedom with them will occasion short Fevers. The express'd Oil of the Kernels is good to anoint the inflamed Piles, and for the Swellings of Ulcers, Roughness and Chaps of the Tongue, Pains of the Ears, and Hoarseness. Mathiolus says, that five Ounces of the Oil, with one Ounce of Muscadine Wine, expels the Stone, and helps the Cholick. The Kernels infused in Brandy make a fine Ratefee; but bitter Almonds are often substituted.

10.

ARCHANGEL (Lamium) or Dead Nettle, a Conserve of the Flowers of the white, taken daily, is said [Page 13] to be good for the Whites, and for Melancholy. The Herb, with the red Flower, bruised and applied, is said to discuss all Kinds of Swellings, and heals Inflammations, Bruises, Wounds, and putrid Ulcers; and some will have it, that a Conserve of the Flowers will stop excessive Menses. A Handful of the Herb, with white Flowers warmed between two hot Bricks, and laid to Tumours, opens them much in one Night, and, when opened, the following is to be used; viz. six Spoonfuls of unripe Sallad Oil, an Ounce of May Butter, put them in black Wool, moistened in Neatsfoot Oil, apply it; and let the Sick every Morning and Afternoon drink Broomflower Water. This Herb is reckon'd one of the Specifics in the King's Evil.

LAMIUM flowers, until hard Frosts.

GALEOPSIS, or ARCHANGEL, with a red Flower, hath a stronger Smell, both grow in botanick Gardens in Pennsylvania.

11.12.

ARACHE (Artriplex) (stinking) is cooling and moistening, it is eaten boil'd as Cole; it is famous for opening the Belly; hence some number it with the five opening Emollients, tho' it is mostly used in Clysters, and Epithems; its Seed powerfully purges and vomits, but neither safely nor easily. Dioscorides gave its Seed with Mead in the Jaundice. It is an Antidote to the Mischiefs from the Use of Cantharides; its Juice applied to Tumours dissolves them; applied to the Gout with Vinegar and Nitre, it eases the Pain, but it is not adviseable.— Sea Arache, from its being more salt, purges more, and is very troublesome to the Belly; but eaten in fat Broth, it is good in a Dropsy; and prevents too great Corpulency, and preserves from Putrifaction. The Smell of the former is good for Women in Hysterics. The Herb or Juice kills Worms in the Sores of Horses, Cattle, or Sheep. The Juice is useful in a Suffocation of the Womb, and for Inflammations. The Seed vomits and purges severely, and with [Page 14] cruel Gripes. The Wild Arache is as cold, but drier than the Garden Arache; it is used outwardly for Inflammations.

ARTRIPLEX. In Pennsylvania the wild Kind is called Lamb-Quarter, the stinking is rare in Botanick Gardens.

13.

ASARUM or ASARABACCA Roots, eaten raw, cause violent Vomiting, but boil'd in Water they open Obstructions, are diuretic, and the Remedy of slow Fevers, especially from obstinate Obstructions in the Hypochondres. The Roots work more mildly than the Leaves, whose Powder taken too freely, has proved fatal to the Strong. The Dose of the Root in Substance is, from Half a Dram to a Dram; in Infusion from one to three Drams; it brings up thick Phlegm, and Bile by Vomit. The powder'd Leaves are a good Sternutatory in an Apoplexy or Lethargy, as is the fresh powder'd Root of Masterwort, laid about the Grinders in the Mouth; or the Infusion of dried Sage for common Drink; or Mustard Seed Posset Drink after due Evacuations. Asarum Leaves are given in Infusion or Decoction from four Ounces to nine. The Herb is a wonderful Diuretic, and Emenagogue, the smaller it is beaten, more diuretic, and less purgative, it is; it has excellent Effects in a Dropsy, Jaundice, Tertian, and Quartan Fevers, and is good in Arthritic and Sciatic Pains, its Decoction in Wine or Water, being sweetened and drank. The more it is boil'd, the less it purges.

14.

ASPARAGUS is one of the opening Roots, it is diuretic, wastes the Stone, and brings it away; it warms and dries a little, it discusses; it removes thick and tough Matter from the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys; for which Purposes the Root is used in Decoction, as it is in Gargles for the Tooth-ach, and [Page 15] to fasten the Gums; the Seed answers the same Intentions, but is seldomer used. Dioscorides says it is good in the King's-Evil, and works powerfully by Urine; but all Diuretics, long or much used, endanger the Ulceration of the Bladder; for which Dr. Bowle mix'd Vulneraries with them. Hoffman thinks it increases Seed, and stimulates phlegmatic Persons, but has a contrary Effect on the bilious. Parkinson prefers young Buds of wild Asparagus to those of the Garden and Physick; it is also good against Difficulty of making Water, or making it by Drops; and to ease nephritic Pains, and expel Sand and Gravel; for the Jaundice; and taken in Wine it expels the Poison of the Phalangium and Serpents; or, boil'd in Vinegar, and applied, it braces up relaxed Arteries, and helps the Sciatica. A Decoction of the Roots in Wine, drank, helps a Frenzy, Falling-Sickness, and Pain of the Uterus; boil'd in Water, it clears a dim misty Sight, and held in the Mouth, eases the Tooth-ach; it cures Pains of the Breast, Stomach, and Bowels, and drank every Morning, several Days together, it excites venereal Desire. A Dram of its Seeds,—and Cummin Seeds, given in four Ounces of Wine, helps bloody Urine; some reject its Use in a Dropsy. The Back and Belly bath'd with a Decoction of the Root or Seed in Wine, or sitting in it as in a Bath, has been found a good Remedy against the Pains of the Kidneys and Bladder, Uterus, Cholick, or other Pains in the lower Parts of the Body; and for Stiffness and Numbness of the Sinews or Cramps, Sciatica and Convulsions. The Herb provokes the Menses, is stomachic, nourishes much, and exhilerates; it must not be eaten too immoderately, especially by the Bilious, lest it sharpen the Humours. There have been Disputes whether it dissolves and expels, or generates the Stone; the last seems meer Theory. The [Page 16] boil'd Tops eaten, or their Decoction drank, loosen the Belly.

15.

ASPHODEL ROOTS are cleansing, cutting, opening, good to provoke Urine and Menses, resist Poison, cleanse Ulcers, and resolve.

ASPHODEL. Grows several Kinds of them in curious Gardens.

16.

ARSMART (Persicaria) is plain or spotted; the first is mild, cooling or drying, the last is hot and dry; it kills all Worms, both on Man and Beast, and cleanses putrified Sores, if the Juice be dropped into them, or otherwise applied; it consumes all cold Swellings, and dissolves coagulated Blood, from Falls or Bruises. A Piece of the Root, or some of the Seed, put into an aching Tooth, eases the Pain. The bruised Leaves laid to a Joint that has a Felon takes it off, The Juice dropped into the Ears kills Worms or Fleas there presently. The Leaves strowed in a Room kill or expel all the Fleas in it. The Herb or Juice, rubb'd on a Horse or Beast's Sores, drive away Flies, and all Vermin, even in the hottest Summer. A Handful of the Herb, put under a tired Horse's Saddle, makes him go fresh and vigorous. The mild Arsmart heals green Wounds, is good against beginning Imposthumes and Inflammations; its Water distill'd from the Herb is excellent in the Stone.

17.

ARTICHOKE (Cinara) excites both Sexes to Venery. A Decoction of the Leaves in white Wine Posset is an extraordinary Medicine for the Jaundice. The Roots are opening, cleansing, and diuretic; the candied Stalks are said to be good in stuffing of the Lungs.

[Page 17]

18.

ARUM (Wake Robin, or Cuckow Pint) is good in continued Quotidians; the Lees or Dregs of the Root, instead of a Digestive, far exceeds all others. The Root of the spotted Sort, whether dry or green, taken in Powder to Half a Dram, is a good Remedy against Plague or Poison. Targus says, he knows not a more healthful Herb, than its green Leaves, laid to a Bile, or Bubo. The boil'd Root taken with Honey, cures Diseases of the Breast from thick Phlegm, for it powerfully expectorates thick tough Matter, therefore good in an Asthma; it promotes the Discharge of Urine, and is said to cure Ruptures. The dried Root is a noble Remedy for the Scurvy, and in Diseases of the Liver and Uterus, from a cold Cause. A Poultise of fresh Leaves beaten up with Cow Dung, is good in the Gout. A Water distilled from the Root, makes a fine beautifying Wash, takes off Spots, and makes the Face shine; but the Juice of the Root, dried in the Sun, and beaten into Meal, like a Ceruse, is far better. Ray says, that the Root, mixed with Powder of Brimstone, is a sovereign Remedy in Consumptions, and was a Secret, communicated by a dying Gentleman. The Powder, taken in Wine, or other proper Liquor, or the Juice, or Powder of the Berries, or their Decoction in Wine, provoke obstructed Urine, or Menses, purge Women after Child-bearing, and expel the After-Birth. Taken in Sheeps Milk, it heals inward Ulcers of the Bowels. In all which Cases the distilled Water is no contemptible Remedy, a Spoonful whereof taken at a Time, cures the Itch, and an Ounce or two of it taken daily, cures Ruptures. The Leaves, either green or dried, or their Juice, cleanse all Sorts of rotten and filthy Ulcers, and the Polypus of the Nose, and heal them. A Decoction of the Root in Water, dropped into the Eyes, clears them from Films, Clouds, or Mists, [Page 18] that weaken the Sight▪ and hinders their Watering or Redness. The Root made into a Poultise, and applied with Bean-flour to an inflamed Throat or Jaws, relieves them. The Juice of the Berries, boiled in Rose Oil, or the Powder mixed with Oil, and dropped into the Ear, eases its Pain. A Decoction of Leaves and Roots in Wine and Oil, cures the Piles, and Falling down of the Anus, or even Sitting over the Fumes of them does it. The bruised Root distilled in Milk, affords a fine Face Wash. A Dram of the powder'd Root, given often with Cinnamon and Sugar, cures Paleness, Cachexy, Scurvy, and Obstructions of the Viscera.

ARUM. Our People call the Kind we have, Indian Turnip, and tho' differing in its Form of Growth from the European, yet is like it in Virtue.

19.

ASH-TREE (Fraxinus) Bark and Wood, dry and attenuate, they soften the Hardness of the Spleen, and reduce its morbid bulk. Some with Success have substituted this to the Jesuits Bark in Intermittents. The Juice of the Leaves and tender Sprouts, taken daily in a small Quantity, is serviceable in Dropsies. The Salt of the Wood, mixed with Diuretics, is a Sudorific, and so is the Decoction of the Bark. The Seed (called its Keys) warms and dries much, is useful in the Stone, Obstructions of the Liver, and Pleurisies. The Powder of the fully ripe dried Keys is a most efficacious Remedy, not only for the Stone, but Jaundice and Dropsy; Dose a Dram in Wine. The Bark or Leaves boiled in Vinegar and Water, and laid to the Stomach, stay Vomiting; or boiled in Wine and drank, cure the Liver and Spleen. A few of the Leaves, taken every Morning in Wine for some Time, both cure and prevent Corpulency. ^*

[Page 19]

20.

AVENS (Cariophyllata) the Roots boiled in Wine▪ and drank warm, ease Pains of the Stomach and Intestines from Cold, or Wind; they are chiefly used to dry up Catarrhs, and dissolve coagulated Blood. ^§ The Root infused in Wine, or Ale, gives them a most delicious and pleasant Flavour, is cordial and beneficial in Obstructions of the Liver, and Disorders of the Stomach, from cold and gross Humours; it is [Page 20] somewhat astringent; its Infusion in Ale strengthens the Joints and Bowels. The Roots boiled in Posset-Drink, and given two Hours before the F [...]t, cure Tertians; boiled in white Wine, it brings down obstructed Menses. The Extract has the above Virtues, and is used in Rheumatisms; it is a Specific in Pains of the Head, from gross Blood, or much Phlegm.

AVENS. Is called Cariophyllata, because the Roots smell sweet, something like C [...]oves. We have one Kind growing in most Parts of Pennsylvania, very like the European, only the Roots don't smell so strong of Cloves, as the English.

21.

BALDMONY, Bawdwort, Spignel (Meum) is a glorious Plant to cold, phlegmatic, and cachectic Constitutions, a Kind of Treacle or Panacaea, from its much contained exalted Oil, and volatile or essential Salt; it therefore affects the Heads of the Choleric or Sanguine, if taken in too long, or too large Doses. The Root expels Wind, and discusses Flatulency or Belchings; it powerfully provokes Urine and Menses, is excellent in Hysterics, Green-Sickness, Catarrhs, Gripes, and facilitates Venery much; it justly stands at the Head of Antihysterics, Stomachics, Emenagogues, Carminative Warmers, and is far from being the lowest of reputed Pectorals. The Powder given with Loaf Sugar, and a Glass of its Infusion in white Wine, or Beer, or Water, taken Evening and Morning some Days, mostly brings down the Menses and Lochia, facilitates the Expulsion of Birth and After-Birth, and eases a flatulent Cholic, after many more pompous and promissory Things have failed. In Disorders of the Stomach from Phlegm, raw, crude Humours, Wind and Relaxations, Pains, Want of Appetite and Digestion, Belchings, Ructations, Nausea's, Cholic, Gripes, Retention of Urine, &c. a close Decoction, or Infusion of this Root, far exceeds all the Mint Tribe; it is a powerful Opener of Obstructions from Cold, as Cachexy, &c. The Roots should [Page 21] be gathered when the Leaves begin to put forth in the Spring. The Seed is rather stronger, and answers the same Use as the Root. The Leaf is used outwardly in Baths, Poultises, and Fomentations. I knew, forty Years ago, an old Practitioner of good Character and Success, who told me he raised and maintained his Reputation from his great Use and Success with this Herb: What a Shame is it that it is now disused?

SPIGNEL. Is a fine Aromatick Plant, but is difficult to raise in Pennsylvania, our hot, dry Summers, scorch it, yet there is a Species of it grows in the South of Europe; and Asia.

22.

BAUM ( Melissa) is a great Cordial, fit for Melancholics, it drives away Sorrow, causes chearful Dreams, and sharpens the Senses. The Arabians admired it much in Faintings, Swoonings, Palpitations, Sadness, Grief, Lowness of Spirits, Cares and Troubles on the Mind, and excessive Beating of the Pulse; nor do they esteem it useless in a Palsey, and cold Diseases of the Brain, if boiled in Wine, and drank, (but it consisting of thin, subtil Parts, will not bear Boiling) some extol it for Rouzing and Strengthening the Memory, and Sharpening the Judgment; it is good in Hysterics, and promotes Menses and Lochia; it is put into Baths and Poultises for the Womb. Not only its Infusion, but wearing it under the Soles of the Feet, hastens the Menses, and comforts the Joints and Sinews; its Fomentation is good for the Stinging of Bees and Wasps; a Conserve of it, Borrage Flowers, and Confection of Khermes, is very good in Melancholy. A Handful of cut Baum, and Half a Dram of powder'd Pearl, infused in four Ounces of Spirit of Wine, and taken, two Spoonfuls at a Time, was the Secret of a Family at Montpelier, for Madness, said Riverius. Parkinson gives a Receipt for a fine Spirit distilled from it, and Boyle teaches to make an Essence from it to make old People young, but both [Page 22] their Processes are too tedious to insert here. Hoffman praises it much for the above Uses. Tournefort shews how to make it very diuretic. It makes a delicious Tea, only it is too cheap and common to be regarded. ^*

23.

BAY-TREE, (Laurus) Galen will have its Leaves to be hot and dry, but its Fruit more so. The Bark is more bitter, and a little astringent. A Steam of the warm Decoction of its Leaves, sitten over, is good in Diseases of the Womb and Bladder; the green Leaves bruised and applied, are good for the Stings of Wasps, Bees, and venomous Insects. The young Leaves beaten up with Flour, are proper in Inflammations of the Eyes; or with Rue for Inflammations of the Testicles; or with Oil of Roses or Orrice, for those of the Head. It was much commended formerly for Diseases of the Breast, but of late it has been rather intended for those of the Stomach, Liver, Spleen, and Bladder, being thought to warm the Stomach, promote Decoction of raw Humours, excite languishing Appetites, and cure Nauseating; to provoke Urine and Menses, and expel the After-Birth. A few Berries swallowed before Sleep, is said to promote an easy Delivery. Their Juice in Wine, dropped into the Ears, cures their Pain, and Dulness of Hearing. The Leaves [Page 23] bruised and smelled to, prevent pestilential Infection. Bauhinus gives various Medicines from the Fruit and Leaves for watery Eyes, Burns, Scalds, Deafness, Cholic, Relaxation of the Uvula, hard Labour, Head-ach, Megrim, &c. Several Oils are prepared from it, which warm, soften, expel Wind, are good in Flatulencies, all Diseases of the Nerves, Pains of the Ears, and Rheum. But, in Disorders of the Kidneys from Cold, to anoint with it, is a most safe, quick, and excellent Remedy. It is also good in a Palsey, Cramp, and all cold Diseases; Inflammations, Cholics, with, or without a Rupture, where all Symptoms portended only Danger, a Clyster, with a large Quantity of the Berries and Cummin Seeds, boiled with Emollients, I have seen do Wonders. Nor are they bad in a Diet-drink to cold, phlegmatic, flabby Bodies, that have a Pain, Weakness, or Windiness in their Stomachs. Their Oil cures Concussions, and dissolves coagulated Blood, and cures Scabs. Venomous Beasts are said not to come near the Smell of the Ointment.

24.

BEECH-TREE ( Fagus) Leaves are cooling and binding, if applied to discuss hot Swellings. The Nuts, being warm and moist, are good Nourishment to several Creatures. The Water found in the Hollow of the Trees, used in a Lotion, cures Scurf, Scab, and Tetters.

25.

BARBERRY-TREE, ( Berberis) the Berries cool, bind, excite an Appetite, and strengthen the Stomach; beaten up with Sugar, they are helpful, in Cases that require Cooling and Binding, as in Fevers, Fluxes, &c. Their Wine is sharper than that of Pomegranates, it is good in hot Fluxes of [Page 24] the Belly, Coeliaca and Vomiting; they quench Thirst in Fevers, and revive a languishing Appetite. The Juice of the Berry, or Decoction of the Bark, and Juice of the Leaves, bruised with Vinegar, is good in all hot Pains of the Teeth from Bile, or sharp Serums, or laid to the Forehead in a hot Pain of the Head. The yellow inner Bark, wrapped in a Linnen Cloth, and infused three Hours in white Wine, and drank, is said to purge Bile powerfully. Sim. Pauli tells us, how to make a fine Tartar of them. The yellow inner Bark of both Roots and Branches, as before infused, in Ale or white Wine, is a noble Remedy for the Jaundice. Or this, Barberry Bark, and Chick-weed, of each alike, boil in middling Wort, to the Consistence of a Syrup, mix in it Sugar-Candy and Saffron; drink of it twice a Day; or take Wormwood, Betony, Celandine, Dandelion, Barberry Bark, Roots of Garden Rhubarb, of each a Handful; Senna Leaf twelve Drams, bruised Hog-Lice, an Ounce and a Half, Saffron four Scruples; infuse all in four Pints of white Wine, or Small Beer, for four Days, strain and drink hereof every Morning six Ounces: Or more generally, take Tops of Fir, Broom, Elder and Buckbean, of each six Handfuls, Juniper Berries four Ounces, Bark of Dwarf Elder, Barberry, and Tamarisk, of each Half a Pound; Roots of Smallage, Liquorice, Monk's Rhubarb, Marsh-Mallows, Fennel, Asparagus, and Parsley, of each six Ounces; pick and slice the best of the Herbs, and throw out the Pith of the Roots, and outer Bark of the Barks, and boil them in a sufficient Quantity of Water, to press out four or five Pounds, which strain through a Flannel, and evaporate to the Consistence of an Extract, and add to it an equal Quantity of Honey; then sift in fine Powder of the best Turkey Rhubarb, Turmerick, Earth Worms prepared, of each two [Page 25] Ounces, Saffron, Hog lice prepared, and Seeds of Dwarf Elder, of each one Ounce; then put to all, and mix Castile Soap, Alb. Sterc. Anserin. of each three Ounces, Balsam Capivi one Ounce, make an Electuary. Dose from Half a Dram to two Drams, in any Obstructions, or Foulness of the Viscera.

26.

BETONY (Betonica) is biting and bitter, it discusses, attenuates, opens, and cleanses; it is a chief Cephalic, Hepatic, Splenetic, Thoracic, Uterine, Vulnerary, and Diuretic; it is much used inwardly and outwardly, especially in Diseases of the Head, says Schroder. Wood Betony Tea, with dried Leaves of Wood Sage, and Ground-Pine, sweetened, and drank warm, is a wonderful Remedy in the Gout, Head-ach, and Disorders of the Nerves; if a strict Use of the Non-naturals be observed at the same Time, and proper Evacuations used at due Intervals: Nor is a Tea of dried Leaves and Flowers of Betony, and wild Angelica, useless in the first Case. I have known obstinate Head-achs, that for many Months had resisted all other most probable Means, cured by daily Breakfasting, for a Month or six Weeks, on a Decoction of Wood Betony in new Milk, and strained. The dried Leaf, smoked with Tobacco, has been serviceable in some Diseases of the Head. The Roots are very different from all the other Parts; they have a bad Taste, are offensive to the Stomach, cause Loathing, Vomiting, and Belching. Antonius Musa, Physician to the Emperor Augustus, wrote a whole Book on this one Herb. Pliny is in downright Raptures with it. Dioscorides says it is good in innumerable Distem [...]rs, for it cures those who either loath, or cannot [...] [Page 26] their Food, weak Stomachs, sour Belchings, either in Conserve, Infusion, Decoction, Powder, or Electuary; it is useful in the Jaundice, Epilepsy, Palsey, Convulsions, Gout, and Dropsy; it is good in Coughs and Colds, Wheezing and Shortness of Breath, and sharp Rheums on the Lungs; its Decoction in Mead is good in putrid Agues, from Disorders of the Stomach; it draws out Blood and Humours which fall on the Eye, and hinder the Sight; its Decoction kills Worms, opens Obctrucctions of the Liver and Spleen, is beneficial in Stitches, and other Pains of the Sides or Back, Gripes in the Bowels, or windy Cholic; it brings down the Menses, Gravel, Stone, and Birth, and is very good in Hysterics; boil'd in Wine for a Gargle, it eases the Tooth-ach; it is useful against the Venom of Serpents or mad Dogs, used inwardly and outwardly; it either prevents or quickly removes Drunkenness. The Powder with Honey, and a little Vinegar, strangely refreshes the Weary; it stops Bleedings by the Mouth, Nose, or Urine; bruised and applied to green Wounds, it quickly heals them, or cut Veins or Sinews; it draws Splinters, Thorns, or other Bodies, out of the Flesh; it, with a little Salt, cures Sores and Ulcers, even the Fistulous. Turnefort says, the Herb is too full of Sulphur, mixed with a little volatile oily Salt and Earth. A Tea of its Leaves is not only advisable in the Gout, but in the Sciatica, Head-ach, Jaundice, and Palsey. Palmarius's Powder for the Bite of a mad Dog: Take Leaves of Rue, Vervain, Smallage, Plantain, Polypody, common Wormwod, Baum, Mint, Mugwort, Betony, Hypericon, Lesser Centaury, all gathered in June, of each equal Parts; dry in the Shade, powder and mix all, and, if the Patient has not been bitten on the Head, nor the Wound washed with Water, give two or three Drams in [Page 27] Wine, and apply bruised Parsley to the Wound; he says it is infallible. ^*

BETONY. Grows here well in Gardens; but that which is called here Wood-Betony is really Cock's Comb, or Rattle Grass, very different from Betony; there is another Herb planted in Gardens by the Name of Betony, which is a small Species of Clary.

BILL-BERRIES, BLEA-BERRIES, or WHORTLE-BERRIES, (Vaccinia) are cooling and binding, good for a hot Stomach, quench Thirst, abate the Ardour of Fevers, stop Vomiting, cure a bilious Looseness, and are good in the Cholera Morbus; but their Juice made into a Rob, with Sugar or Honey, is better than the Berries, for they are cold, crude, [Page 28] and apt to offend a weak Stomach, and disturb the Belly. I have often known poor People cured of bilious Loosenesses by them. The Black-Berries are better than the Red, tho' the last are more binding.

28.

BIRCH-TREE (Betula) the Juice of its Leaves, or their distilled Water, or the Juice or Sap drawn from a Bore of the Tree in the Spring, all these, being Diuretic, are good for the Stone, if drank some Time; and they are a good Gargle for sore Mouths. A Lee, made of the Ashes of the Tree, is said to answer the same Ends; no Preparations of this Tree should be used by Persons disposed to a Diabetes.

29.

BISHOPS-WEED (Ammi) is warming and drying, and of thin Parts, and a bitter sharp Taste; it digests Humours, provokes Urine and Menses, expels Wind, and taken in Wine eases the Gripes, is good against Biting of Serpents, and Mischiefs arising from the inward Use of Cantharides; mixed with Honey, it takes away blue and black Marks of the Skin; being drank, it takes off too high a Colour of the Face; its Fume with Rosin, cleanses the Womb.

BISHOPS-WEED. I have not observed to grow in Pennsylvania, or the adjacent Colonies.

30.

BISTORT-ROOT (Bistorta) is very binding, and used with Success where that is required, as for Incontinence of Urine, excessive Menses, bleeding Wounds, bilious Vomiting, Spitting of Blood, Bloody-Flux, and other Fluxes of the Belly; Rheum from the Teeth, Gums, Tonsils, and Jaws, if boiled in Wine; or Half a Dram of the Powder given in Conserve of Roses; taken in the White of an Egg, with powdered Amber, it prevents Miscarriage. The Powder [...] Sudorific, and prevents [Page 29] pestilential Infection. This is near the same as Tormentil. The Powder given is good in Rupture [...] and dissolves coagulated Blood in any Part of th [...] Body, from Falls, Blows, &c. and eases their [...] The Leaves kill Worms in Children; it thick [...]ns the Blood and Juices much, and checks their rapid Motion.

BISTORT. Not in this, or the neighbouring Provinces.

31.

BLUE-BOTTLE ( Cyanus) the Flowers and distilled Water are good in Inflammations of the Eyes. The Juice dropped into foul Ulcers cleanses them [...] is a vulnerary Plant, its Juice is good against [...] and Concussions, tho' a Vein be broke, and Blood be spit; it heals Cuts and green Wounds. Some use it for Jaundice and Retention of Urine; its Infusion or Decoction in white Wine, drank Morning and Afternoon, is a famous Diuretic; so is Plantain Juice drank alone, or with Lemon Juice, or a Dram of Burdock Seed, in four Drams of white Wine, or powdered Columbine Seeds, in Rhenish; or distilled Water of Holly-Tree Buds, or Powder of Southernwood Seed in Wine.

32.

BORRAGE ( Borrago) and BUGLOSS Flowers ( Buglossum) are both eminent Cordials; the distilled Water and Conserve of Bugloss Flowers are said to strengthen the Heart, and are good against Faintings and Melancholy; they cause Chearfulness, and purify the Blood. The Water is a Repellent in Inflammations of the Eyes, and in all Fevers, if used inwardly, and so is the Conserve; and, dissolved in white Wine, it brings down the Menses. Bugloss moistens, cools, and raises the Spirits; it removes a Catarrh, and Defluctions from the Lungs, and the Juice is good in obstinate Coughs; it is cooling and cordial in Tea, Ptisan, or Broth. A Syrup and [Page 30] Conserve may be made and kept of the Flowers, for both are good against Poison, putrid, malignant▪ pestilential Fevers, and Melancholy; they open Obstructions, cleanse the Blood, are serviceable in a Jaundice, temper Heat and Sharpness, are good in all adust Humours, and Diseases of the Skin therefrom; both Conserves are good for feeble, weak, and consumptive Persons.

33.

BOX-TREE ( Buxus) a Wash of its Decoction in Lee makes the Hair grow surprisingly. An Infusion of its tender Leaves in white Wine, strained, and given to drink, quickly cures a flatulent Cholic. The distilled Narcotic Oil of the Wood is much commended in the Falling Sickness, Tooth-ach, and rotten Teeth. Its Saw-dust is said to be drying and astringent, therefore its Decoction is said to cure a Flux; its Decoction in Wine is a good Gargle for cold Defluxions of the Teeth.

34.

BRAMBLE-BUSH ( Rubus) all its Parts are medicinal, Buds, Leaves, Flowers, Fruit, and Roots, have all a binding Quality▪ but the unripe Berries are most so, the ripe are far milder; they are good in all Fluxes of the Belly, Uterus, Nose, or by the Mouth. The Leaves boiled, strained, and a little Allum or Honey put to the Liquor, make a very good Gargle for Rawness, Heat, Parching, and small Ulcers [...] the Mouth, or Throat, or privy Parts, or the Thrush; some esteem them Antiscorbutic. The Juice of the Fruit, with Sugar, makes a good Wine. Their Syrup is an excellent Medicine in a Dysuria. The Berries immoderatly eaten are not only safe, but pleasant, and wholesome to lax and choleric Bodies especially, and to Persons liable [Page 31] to Loosenesses, Excess of the Menses, &c. A Decoction of the Leaves, for a Steam and Fomentation, cures the Piles, and hard Knobs in the Anus. A Decoction of the Flowers, being diuretic, is good in the Stone.

35.

BRANCURSINE or BEARS-BREECH (Acanthus) is a great Softener, often used in emollient and Pain-easing Clysters, and Poultises, to Burns, and Luxations. The Roots boiled and drank are diuretic, and stop Fluxes; they are good for consumptive Persons, and such as spit Blood, or have got Falls, Blows, or Bruises; they are much the same as Comfry Roots.

BRANCURSINE and BROOM. I have had flourish in my Garden, but the late hard Winters have destroyed them Root and Branch.

36.

BROOK-LIME, or WATER-PIMPERNEL (Becabunga) has near the same Virtues as Water-Cresses, but weaker, it warms and moistens moderately; it is chiefly used in Diet-drinks, and Juices for the Scurvy; it powerfully expels Stones of the Reins and Bladder, and brings down the Menses and dead Child; it is used outwardly to Inflammations and St. Anthony's Fire; Rustics daily experience its Excellency, in expeditiously healing green Wounds, if a little Salt and Cobweb are added to it, and laid on like a Poultise between two very thin Cloths; but its chief Excellency and specific Virtue lies in its wonderfully easing Pains of the blind Piles, and other Excrescences of the Anus; in a poultise boiled in Water or Ale, and applied, it cures frightful Ulcers of the Legs, if laid on Evening and Morning daily, in Scorbutick Bodies.

BROOK-LIME. I have never observed it to grow in our Northern Provinces.

37.

BROOM ( Genista) is good in Diseases of the Liver and Kidneys, expels▪ watery Humours by Vomit, [Page 32] Stool, and Urine; it is good in Obstructions of the above Viscera, and in Dropsies, Catarrhs, and arthritic Disorders. The Twigs, Tops, and Leaves, boiled in Wine and Water, or their Juice, is good [...]n Obstructions of the Reins and Bladder, purging both by Stool and Urine: A Dram of the Seed does the same. Dr. Hulse says, that the powder'd Flowers, with Honey of Roses, in an Electuary, cure Scrophula's. Ray says, the powder'd Seeds, taken in Hydromel, do Wonders in a swell'd Spleen, Dropsy, and Jaundice. The Salt of Broom-Ashes in white Wine, drank, is extolled in a Dropsy, if the Lymphatics are not broken, but it is not safe after the Waters are extravasated. In Want of Broom, Heath, Juniper, Bean-stalk, or Vine Ashes, are as good, and Ferns, to old dropsical, asthmatical, and scorbutic People. Take Tops of Wormwood, Camomile, Sage, Broom, and Scurvy-Grass, of each a Handful; Roots of Garlick, Elacampane, Horse-Radish, of each two Ounces; Juniper Berries, an Ounce and a Half; prepare and infuse all in white Wine, or Table Beer, for a Diet-drink, to be drank thrice a Day.—BROOM-RAPE, ( Orobanche) some call it Lung-wort, and use it as a Medicine for the Lungs; but the powder'd Herb is a present Remedy for the Pain of the Cholic. The Herb candied, or the Syrup, is a sovereign Remedy against Splenetic and Hypochondriac Passions; used outwardly, it sof [...]ens hard schirrous Tumours.

38.

BUCK-THORN ( Spina Cervina) the Berries in a Syrup purge watery Humours, and thin Phlegm violently, taken from Half an Ounce to three Ounces in a Dropsy, Leucophlegmatia, &c. or their Powder taken from Half a Dram, to a Dram and a Half; for this Purpose, some strong Rustics [Page 33] swallow 15 or 20 of the Berries. The best Syrup is made of the purified Juice, with Honey, Sugar, Cinnamon, and Anise, which may be used safely and successfully in the above Dose. If the Stomach is weak, it may be taken with Cinnamon Water, and of the Syrup, each an Ounce; Jalap Powder, 20 or 30 Grains; mix and give some [...] the Constitution will bear it; take Gamboge Powder 12 Grains, Oil of Juniper two Drops, Mithridate enough to make a Pill for a Dose; it works roughly, but is like to be serviceable.

BUCK-THORN. Grows very well from Seed I had from Europe, but no where wild in our Provinces.

39.

BURDOCK ( Bardana) the Root is chiefly used; they are, from good Authority, vouch'd to be good in Stone, or Gravel of Kidneys and Bladder, and in Gout and Arthritic Pains. Forestus has shewn their surprising Effects, the powder'd Seed being taken to a Dram or two in white Wine, or in Chervil, Parsley, or Arsmart Waters, and drank daily. Apuleius says, it is a Specific against the Bite of venomous Beasts; its compound Water is extolled against the Plague, as being a powerful Sudorific; it was in great Esteem for venereal Disorders, before many excellent mercurial Preparations were known and used, and is now found to relieve those Pains when raging much: This Herb is not only Diuretic and Sudorific, but Hysteric, Pectoral, and Vulnerary. The famous Hollier used its Root and Flowers in Pleurisies, with Success; he made the Sick swallow the Sperm of a Dozen new laid Eggs, in a Glass of Burdock Water, and then drink large Glass-fulls of this Water after. The Decoction of the Root purifies the Blood; it is justly preferred to Scorzonera, in malignant Fevers, and the Small Pox. A Conserve of the Root is said to expel Urine and Sand; some advise taking the Root in Spitting of Blood, and [Page 34] purulent Matter. The Seed, either in white Wine or Emulsion, is good in the Stone, nephritic Pains, and Cholick. The Leaves cleanse Ulcers, and a Poultise of them roasted under the Embers, and applied, eases the Gout; some boil them in Milk, and lay on. The Water, Juice, Decoction, and Extract, are all good in the above Cases; a Tea of it, and wild Angelica Root, drank daily, with a little powder'd Gumguaiac, is a good Preventative of the Gout. The Leaves not only cleanse Wounds, and obstinate tedious Ulcers, but are good in loose Joints. In Gout or Gravel, the powder'd Seed should be daily drank for 40 Days. A Decoction of the Root has cured several Quartans. The Leaves applied to shrinking Sinews, help them much; their Juice taken with Honey, provokes Urine, and eases the Pain of the Bladder; the Leaves, bruised with the White of an Egg, take out Fire or Burns, ease them quickly, and heal them up; a Fomentation of their Decoction stays the Corrosion of fretting Sores or Canker; they should be anointed after, with an Ointment of the Juice, Lard, Nitre, and Vinegar, boiled up and strained. A Conserve of the Roots is good in Consumptions, Fluxes, and Stone. The lesser Burdock Seeds digest; the Roots or Seeds bruised, and often laid on hard Kernels in the Flesh, dissolve them; the unripe Seeds bruised, and steeped in warm Water or Wine, and the Hair moisten'd therewith (having been first rubbed with a little Nitre) makes it yellow. I have often seen three or four Ounces of great Burdock Seed boiled in Water, and strain'd (it would be better in Wine) and Half of the Liquor given to drink, the other Half injected in a Clyster, has rescued from the Jaws of Death in flatulent pituituous Cholics, when the small Intestines were slipp'd into the Cods, and could not be put back, and the [Page 35] wretched Sufferers in the utmost Extremity; tho' I have often known it used so in the Cholic, yet never without Success: But its Decoction is so intolerably saltish and bitter, that only strong Stomachs can retain it; it purges Phlegm and Flatulency out of the Bowels roughly, but safely, and effectually; it kills and expels Worms, with their Eggs and Nests: People often subject to Boils should drink a daily Tea of this Root, and Rosemary Tops, it will cure them. The green Leaves, worn daily under the Soles of the Feet, are reported to cure an Anasarca.

40.

BULLACE-TREE ( Prunus Sylvestris Major) the Fruit is cooling and astringent, it is not eaten till it is either boiled, parched before the Fire, or has got Frost; preserved with Honey, it is good for a Looseness, or Bloody-Flux, their Wine and Decoction are for the same Use. The Flowers infused all Night in strong Wine, and distilled, the Water is a singular Experiment for a Pain of the Side. Vintners cannot be without this Fruit, for restoring their Wines. An Infusion, or Syrup of the Flowers, is purging; Leaves, Fruit, and Bark, are all cooling, drying, and astringent; hence their Use in Hemorrhages, Loosenesses, &c. The Gum of the Tree dissolved in Vinegar, cures a Herpes. The richer Germans make a Wine of the Fruit.

41.

BURNET ( Pimpinella) is either Cordial or Alexipharmac; hence infused green in Wine, it gives it a fine Aromatic Flavour and Taste; it chears the Heart, and resists the Plague, and contagious Diseases: Or it is binding and useful in excessive Fluxes of the Menses, Bloody-Flux, and Discharges of [Page 36] Blood; and in drying and healing up Wounds and Ulcers. The Root or Herb powdered with Sugar of Roses, is good in Bleedings of the Nose, Spitting of Blood, and Consumptions of the Lungs. The Powder sprinkled on Ulcers hinders their spreading. Its Conserve is excellent in bloody Urine: Some commend it as an Antidote to Madness, from the Bite of a Mad Dog. The Herb is said to thin, warm, dry, cleanse, and open Obstructions of the Liver, Kidneys, Lungs, and Uterus; it is good in the Gravel, Strangury, Cholic, Cough, Asthma, Difficulty of Breathing, beginning Inflammation of the Lungs, Crudities or Weakness of the Stomach; it is an Antidote to the too liberal Use of Quicksilver; outwardly it cleanses off Spots of the Face, increases Milk, opens Buboes, or cancerous Tumours, cleanses and heals new and old Wounds. The Root fryed in fresh Butter, used in a Poultise, draws Balls out of any Wounds. Its Powder strew'd on Cancers is good, and so is Powder of Spurge Lawrel steeped in Vinegar, dried, powdered, and strewed on them, or Roots, Juice, and Leaves of Moonwort applied ^*.

We have a large kind of BURNET, which grows in shallow gravelly Swamps.

[Page 37]

42.

BUTCHER'S-BROOM, or KNEE-HOLLY ROOT, ( Ruscus, sive Bruscus) is very useful in Stuffings and Obstructions of the Viscera, especially the Liver, Spleen, and urinary Passages. Hence it is good in the Jaundice, Dropsy, and Strangury; the second whereof, of a deplorable Sort, has been cured in a Month, by daily drinking a Decoction of this alone, or with Flower-de-luce, and Fennel Roots, in Wine or Water; it is thought as powerful as Comfry in healing broken Bones, or as Solomon's Seal. Tho' a Decoction of the Root has had such surprizing Effects in Dropsies in a few Weeks, yet proper Purges were, and always should be given with it, as of Jallap-Root and Ginger, or Jallap and Syrup of Buckthorn, twice a Week. Powder of the [Page 38] Root and of Dropwort, and Figwort, of each a Scruple, infused in a Pint of white Wine, and drank daily, is good in scrophulous Tumours. A Conserve of its Berries is commended in a Gonorrhaea, taken from two Drams to Half an Ounce, for some Days; or Rose Water, four Ounces, Juice of Lemons one Ounce, White of an Egg, mix and drink every fourth Day.

We have no Kind of Butchers Broom growing in our Colonies, that I have observed.

43.

BUTTERBUR (Petasites) is bitter, but not hot, the Roots bark'd and steeped in Vinegar, till it is impregnated with their Virtue, then drank with Juice of Rue, and Treacle, are good in pestilential Fevers: It comes also recommended in Hystericks, a Cough, Asthma, and Worms; it expels Urine and the Menses. The Roots are Sudorific, and Alexipharmac, good in Fevers, malignant, pestilential, and contagious Diseases; they are Cordial, prevent Fainting and Shortness of Breath; they are applied in Poultises to Buboes, and Plague Sores.

BUTTERBUR, White and Black BRYONY. I have not observed the true Kinds of any of these to grow wild in any of our Colonies, nor will they flourish in Gardens as yet.

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44.

BRYONY (White) Bryonia alba) purges Phlegm and watery Humours strongly, from its viscous Parts, sticking to the Coats of the Bowels; the Root opens Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, and Uterus; expels the Menses, brings off Water in a Dropsy, both upwards and downwards; brings away Birth and After-Birth; repels Hysterics, heals the Asthma, and is useful in the Gout. Platerus took up the Root, just as it began to sprout in the Spring, peel'd off its Bark, sliced it, hung it on Threads, and dried it, either in the Sun or Shade, then infused it in Wine, and dried it again; the same he repeated a second and third Time; being thus prepared, it purged without any Trouble: Or he powder'd the prepared Root, and with a little Maluatic Wine, wherein Ginger had been slightly infused, he made it into Troches, which, dried and powdered, he used in Infusion, which made it as mild as Agaric; the Bigness of a Nutmeg of its Conserve taken twice a Day, for a long Time, often conquers either Epilepsy, or Hysterics; or a Bit of the Root put into the Cup, out of which the Sick drinks. Formerly, some boiled and eat its first tender Buds, but it is too rough, except for very strong Bodies. The inward and outward Use of the Root is most efficacious in a Dropsy; a Poultise of it beaten up with Linseed Oil, and laid warm to the Hip, and often renew'd, does Wonders in a Sciatica; nor is it less efficacious in dissolving and drawing out clotted Blood from Bruises, Falls, and Blows, Slices of the fresh Root, laid hot to the pained Side in a Pleurisy, eases it. Take Half a Pound of a large Root, slice it, and fry it, till it is much dissolved; strain, and add Turpentine of the Fir-Tree, Half a Pound, Bees Wax four Ounces, make an [Page 40] Ointment, spread it on Linnen, apply it to scrophulous Swellings, and it either resolves or ripens, breaks and heals them: Zacutus swears it never once failed. Doloeus says, in the Spring Time, lay open the Ground round the Root, cut off the upper Part, hollow what remains in the Earth, cover it with the Part cut-off, and strow the Earth over all; next Morning the hollowed Part will be full of Juice, a Spoonful of which drank, purges gently downwards, removes Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, Sweet-bread, and other Parts of the lower Belly, and if drank every Morning, from one to three Spoonfuls, it does, and has cured abundance of Dropsies. The Root, bruised and applied, draws Splinters out of the Flesh. The Leaves, Fruit, and Roots, cleanse old filthy Sores, fretting, running Cankers, Gangrenes and Tetters. The Root clears the Skin from all Spots and Discolouring; but, for all its good Qualities, its inward Use requires great Caution, and should be very well prepared; it, being so powerful a Purge, is fit to draw Humours from the remotest Parts of the Body, therefore in a Palsey, Cramp, Vertigo, Convulsions, and to expel Sand and Gravel from the Kidneys, and purge the Uterus, it may be of special Service. The powder'd Root, made into an Electuary with Honey, clears the Breast from thick Phlegm, and is good in obstinate Coughs and Shortness of Breath. The Berries often rubbed on, cure Tetters, therefore called Tetter-Berries. The Root applied with a little Wine, breaks Boils, and helps Whitloes, or Whitflows. A Poultise of the Root with Sterc. Caprill. or Bubulin. and Vinegar, is good for a Schirrus, if used sometimes, and often renew'd; but Vinegar and Nitre harden it to a Cartilage or Bone: A Poultise of the Root, Frogs, and soft Soap, beaten up into a Poultise, and applied to any strumatous Tumour, promises fair to [Page 41] discuss it, especially on the Joints, where a Suppuration may be dangerous.

45.

BRYONY (Black) (Bryonia Nigra) cuts and thins tough Phlegm, in Disorders of the Breast. Hoffman says, that Dr. Lister often tried both Roots and Extract in very large Doses, but never could observe they had any sensible Operation any Way. A Poultise of the powder'd Root, with Vinegar and Cowdung, eases the Pain of the Gout; a Poultise of it, bruised, quickly cures Concussions: This Root seems to have the like Effects with that of the White, but much weaker. The bruised Root applied, is good for Aches of the Arms, Shoulders, Hips, and in white Swellings.

46.

CAMOMILE ( Chamaemelum) digests, loosens, softens, eases Pain, provokes the Menses, and Urine; its Decoction in Wine is of special Use in the flatulent Cholic, Cramp, and Convulsions. Mathiolus says, it is wonderful how powerfully its simple distill'd Water discusses in a Pleurisy; outwardly it is of the greatest Benefit in easing Pains, in softening and ripening Fomentations, Poultises and Clysters: In the last Form it eases Pain of the Bowels surprizingly, from whatever Cause; and in Baths for the Stone, Camomile Flowers is the chief Ingredient. Its Oil softens and discusses hard Tumours, eases their Pains, and takes off Weariness. Two Handfuls of the Flowers, infused in a Quart of Rhenish Wine, on hot Ashes for two Hours, then strained, and as many fresh Flowers put in a second and third Time, and strained; two or three Spoonfuls of this Infusion, drank in warm Wine several Times, and [Page 42] at the same time bathe in a Decoction of the Flowers, is a most sovereign Remedy for the Stone, beyond all Simples; it is surprising how salt this Infusion is. A double Infusion of Camomile in Brandy, strain'd out, and rubbed on every Night, the whole Length of the Vertebrae of the Back, is very serviceable to weak Children, which cannot walk. Two or three Spoonfuls of the Juice, with a few Drops of Spirit of Vitriol, given in Broth just before the Fit, often prevent it, and cure the Fever. The Ancients commend Camomile against bilious and hypochondriac Fevers, and the Egyptians used it against all Fevers. A Decoction of stinking Camomile ( Cotula Foetida) either for Bathing, Fomentation, or Smell, is as good as Castor in Hysterics; used as a Plaist [...]r or Poultise, it soon cures Wounds. Some have, with Success, used a Decoction of this Herb, for Scrophula's; others have cured a Dysury with it. If the Breasts are hard with coagulated Milk, let them be washed twice a Day with this Decoction, and lay on after it a Poultise of Elecampane Leaves, Horehound, and Linseed, with Lard; it is also good in Cramps. The Smell of the Herb is most offensive and destructive to Bees; boiled in Milk, either it, or Mallow Leaves, are good for the Gripes attending a Bloody-Flux; its Decoction put in a Swine's Bladder, and laid to the Breast, or Side, in a Pleurisy, eases Pain greatly; an Ointment of the Herb, with Hyssop and Butter, eases a Pain of the Breast much, from violent Coughing: A Drop or two of its Chymical Oil on Sugar, is a sure Diaphoretic, gives Ease in the Cholic, or Stone, expels Wind, &c. but in many Cases the simple Herb, or Flower, is preferable: A Bath of the boiled Herb takes off all Fatigues, is friendly to the Nerves and Muscles, eases most outward or inward Pains, allays Inflammations, mollifies and discusses Tumours; it communicates [Page 43] Warmth to the Parts, digests and dissolves what is necessary, and gently provokes Urine. An Infusion, or Decoction of the Flowers▪ is either a Vomit or Sweat, as they are used in Strength or Quantity, and expel old Aches or Pains▪ it brings the Menses. A Syrup made of the Flowers in white Wine, is good in a Jaundice and Dropsy. The Oil of the Flowers, by Infusion, is used with great Success for hard Swellings, Pains, Cramps, Aches, Dryness, or Shrinking of Sinews, &c. In Clysters it expels Wind, eases cholical and nephritic Pains, ^* or those from Excoriations of the Bowels: Anointing with it in Stitches, and Pains of the Sides, very often gives Relief. This Herb was so great a Favourite with the Egyptians, that Galen says, their Sophies dedicated it to the Sun; and indeed, amongst [Page 44] all Herbs, none exceed it for extensive, inward, and outward Services, in a numerous Variety of Cases. Elder seems to put in for the next Competitor; in a Cardialgia, a Decoction of it drank warm in the Fit, cures; or three Ounces of the fined Juice of Dill; or a Dram of powder'd Acorns, in two Ounces of fined Wormwood Juice. Some make a great Secret of the following Ointment, and put as great a Value on it, for flatulent Stomachs, Indigestion, Gripes, Gravel, or any cold or windy Disorder. Take Roots of Spignel, Elecampane, Saxifrage, Parsley, Wild Valerian, Nettles, Angelica, Althaea, of each three Ounces; Leaves of Pennyroyal, Rue, Thyme, Sage, Mint, Wormwood, Ground-Ivy, Harts-Tongue, Maidenhair, of each a Handful; Camomile Flowers, two Handfuls; Broom Flowers, a Handful; Seeds of Anise, Nettles, Fennel, Wild Carrots, Juniper Berries, of each Half an Ounce; prepare all to be made into an Ointment, with fresh Butter, as the Cholic-salve, under Angelica, was made; to every Half Pound of it, when strained the last Time, add Oil of Anise, and Amber, of each a Dram, and mix well; Dose from a Dram to Half an Ounce, inwardly, drank in some proper warm Liquor, in Bed, and anoint outwardly with it at Bedtime, if needful. I have known it used, but never knew it useless, far less hurtful. Such as use Theriacas, cannot blame the Multiplicity of Ingredients in it. ^*

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47.

CAMPIONS (Lychnis) Rose Campion, with a red, as it were blazing, shining Flower, and single white Campion, their Juice snuffed up the Nose, provokes Sneezing; from a Scruple to a Dram of their Seed taken in Wine, is good against the Bite of Scorpions. Two Drams of the powder'd Seed of the last, drank, purges bilious Humours. The Herb boiled in Posset, is excellent in Children's Convulsions.

48.

COCKLE ( Nigellastrum) Some ascribe the Virtues of Nard to it, and extol it for curing Tetters, Ringworms, Scabs or Sores of the Skin, and for healing up of Wounds and Fistula's, as well as its surprising Effects of stopping Blood even by holding in the Hand, or under the Tongue, for which Sennertus and Sim. Pauli deservedly extol it out of Measure for staying all Haemorrhages. ^* The last says [Page 46] that he was so successful in stopping Bleedings that attended an Epidemic Fever in Denmark, in 1652, that he was taken for a Witch or Conjurer. The bleeding Patient is only to hold a Piece of the Root [Page 47] under his Tongue some Time. Its Decoction drank, stops the Menses, and expels Urine, Sand, Gravel, &c.

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49.

BARREN CAMPION (Sesamoides Salamanticum) with a Moss Flower, or Earth Star, is wonderfully esteemed for the Bite of a Mad Dog; of three clean wash'd intire Plants of it be given to a Horse the first Morning, five the second, and seven the third, it surely prevents all Danger, and cures not only Horses, but Men, and other Creatures. The whole Herb may be made up into Balls with Butter, and taken.

50.

CAMPION or SOAP-WORT (Saponaria) The [Page 49] Root is hot and drying, attenuates and opens powerfully, and is Sudorific; it is used for an Asthma, to cause the Menses, helps Diseases of the Uterus, and for a Gonorrhoea. Outwardly it provokes Sneezing, and discusses Swellings, in the Groins and Arms chiefly. 'Tis also very cleansing, and by pressing yields a nitrous Juice, which cleanses the Scab, and all Diseases and Deformities of the Skin. A Dram of its Powder, taken before the Fit, cures the Falling Sickness, if taken once a Month, for three New Moons. Its Decoction cures Tetters, Ringworms, takes Stains out of Cloths, and cleanses and scours Woollen like Soap. 'Tis good in the Jaundice, Hypo, and Madness. A Decoction of the Herb stops inward and outward Bleedings, if drank and applied. It sends out obstructed Urine, Sand, &c.

SAPONARIA. Grows prodigiously where it once takes Root.

52.

CARDUUS BENEDICTUS, holy or blessed Thistle. Tho' this is a good Herb, yet Authors seem a little too lavish in its Praises, but I shall not follow them; for Hoffman comprises all in few Words, viz. That its Decoction in Wine, drank in the Absence of the Fit, is good in Intermittents; its Powder is less available, and its distilled Water least of all. 'Tis commended in Pituitous Disorders of the Head, as Megrim, Vertigo, Epilepsy, Deafness, Distillations on the Breast, in a Dropsy, Quartans, and all long Fevers, which arise from Obstructions. It is also said to be good in Cholics, Nephritics, and Sciatica, partly by discussing, and partly by determining the Humours to the Urinary Passages. But its chief Praise is for the Plague, used inwardly to provoke Sweat, either for Prevention or Cure; outwardly for breaking Buboes or other Imposthumes. If gathered in the Beginning of June, it is an excellent Vulnerary for green Wounds, but [Page 50] answers not that Intent any other Time. The Decoction of the dried Herb in Posset Drink, drank in small Doses, provokes Sweat; in a large Dose it vomits. The Germans esteem its Wine an universal Remedy. Both its Water and Powder bear a very great Character with Sim. Pauli, and Andreas de Villa Nova, not only for healing putrid and obstinate Ulcers, but curing the Cancer itself, whereof they produce Instances. It is certainly a good Stomatic and Antiscorbutic.

52.

CARLINE Thistles (Carlina) Helmont says, its Root, Juice, or Extract, drive away Sleep both healthy and morbid; this Thistle is Sudorific and Alexipharmac, prevents Contagion, and cures pestilential Fevers; it is Diuretic, brings down the Menses, kills Worms in the Belly, and is good in Dropsy and Hypo. The dried Root boiled in Broth helps Defluctions of Rheum on the Eyes, Teeth, Nose, or Lungs; but boiling loses its volatile Parts. It is good for Nerves and Womb; drank in Wine it is an Antidote against Plague or Poison.

53.

The black CARLINE made into an Ointment with Vinegar, Flour of Brimstone, and Lard, cures Itch, Tetters, &c. and all Deformities of the Face and Skin; it helps foul Sores and stinking Ulcers: A Gargle of it is commended in the Tooth-ach; but, being a great Poison, and never used inwardly, I should not put its Decoction in the Mouth.

54.

SOW THISTLE (Sonchus) green and tender, is eaten as Cole, says Galen, especially its Root; a [Page 51] Decoction of the Stalks makes Nurses flow with Milk; it helps Childrens Colour, drank in Wine; it is good for Asthmatics, and such as have the Strangury; the Juice dropped into the Ears eases their Pains. Its Virtues are near the same with Lettuce. The bruised Herb laid on Warts soon takes them away. The Juice prevents Curdling of Milk in the Breasts; three Spoonfuls of it drank in white Wine, with a little Oil, causes easy and speedy Delivery in Child-birth, and that the Woman may walk presently after. The bruised Herb or Juice helps Inflammations of the Eyes, Pustules, Wheals, Blisters, or other Eruptions on the Skin, or secret Parts; is good for the Piles. The Water was used to wash the Face.

55.

CELANDINE the greater ( Chelidonium Majus) a Handful of the Root boiled in Rose Vinegar, strained▪ and Venice Treacle put to it, and a Glass of it drank in Bed, and Sweat after, both prevents and cures the Plague. Warts often rubbed with the Juice of the Leaves, on the Decrease of the Moon, are effectually removed. The Juice of Marigold Flowers does the same. The distilled Water of this Herb dropped into the Eyes clears them, curing both their red Spots and those of the Face. The Bigness of a Pinhead of the Extract of the Herb, put into the Eye in the Morning in Bed, not only takes off its outward Specks, but is most effectual in beginning Suffusions; three or four Ounces of the Water, with two Scruples, or a Dram of the Root, is a successful Experiment in a Dysentery. The Water, drank several Days together, cures the Jaundice, and King's Evil. The powdered Herb cleanses and heals Wounds and Ulcers. Its Juice rubbed on effectually cures a Herpes miliaris and Impetigines. Garenciers will have it to be a Specific in English Consumptions, [Page 52] but Sim. Pauli fully shews his Mistake, for it is not a pulmonary Consumption that is meant there, but the Scurvy, in which it is as great a Specific, as in all Obstructions of the Liver, and outwardly for a Scab, Scald Head, &c.

56.

CENTRY, or CENTAURY the lesser (Centaurium Minus) as it is intolerably bitter, was formerly a Specific for Agues, and is still used as a Substitute to the Bark, especially where it fails of Cure; as 'tis not to be depended on in long rainy Seasons. The Antients will have this Herb to be gently purgative, but, however that is, we know it opens Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, and is mildly astringent, cleansing, and vulnerary; carries off bilious and phlegmatic Humours, and discharges S [...]rosities by the Skin; hence it is good in Fevers, Jaundice, Suppression of the Menses, Gout, Scurvy, Worms, and a Specific against the Bite of a Mad Dog. Its Decoction in Clysters is of wonderful Service in a Sciatica. A Decoction of the Herb and Flowers cures Discolouring of the Skin. A Lee of it cleanses and whitens Womens Hair. Sim. Pauli says, that the most excellent Remedy against Scurff, Dandriff, and Scab of the Head, is to wash it often with the Decoction of this Herb in Water wherein Peas were boiled, very tender; it at the same time kills and destroys all Vermin in the Head. A strong Decoction of it in White-Wine, drank every Morning, cures a Jaundice. The powdered Leaves are good in a Dropsy. The green Leaves quickly cure fresh Wounds, and cleanse and cure old Ulcers.

57.

CARAWAY SEEDS (Carum) are Stomachic, Diuretic, expel Wind, promote Digestion, provoke [Page 53] Urine, strengthen the Brain, and cause much Milk; hence their Use in the Cholic, Vertigo, to Nurses, &c. The Root, when tender, is reckoned as good as the Seed to eat; it is pleasanter and more delicate than Parsnip; it affords much distilled Oil, and much more acid than that of Anise. This Oil given on Sugar is very good in Pains of the Belly, Dose five or six Drops. This whole Plant is heating and drying, and consists of fine Parts. The dried Seed should be used; but if dried in the Sun, its finest Parts are lost. Its Effects are surprising in Cholic, Melancholy, and Vertigo; either Seed or Oil are good, but its Water distilled in Rhenish is best. The Seed is good in cold Disorders of the Body, powdered and made into a Poultise. It takes away black and blue Spots from Blows, Bruises, or Falls. A Poultise of the Seed and Herb, fried, and laid to the lower End of the Belly, eases the Cholic; or the Seed bruised and mixed with the Pulp of a hot Loaf, and sprinkled with Brandy, and applied as the last. The Seed is good in Hysterics, and chewed it helps the Sight.

58.

CALAMUS AROMATICUS, or sweet smelling Flag, is one of the Iris Tribe. It is of thin Parts, warming and drying, much used in obstructed Menses, Cholic Pains, and boiled in white Wine, with Borrage Juice, is a fine Diuretic. It is pleasant to the Palate and Stomach, and good against contagious Diseases; and in Catarrhs, especially Convulsive. It is a good Stomachic, but must not be powdered. Its Infusion drank, or applied outwardly, hastens the tardy Menses. A Decoction of the Root drank expels Urine, relieves Pains of the Sides, Breast, Liver, and Spleen, Dysuria, Convulsions, and Gripes. Its Juice with Honey helps Dimness of Sight, and [Page 54] Hardness of the Spleen. Its Root boiled in Wine, beaten up, laid to the Cods, greatly abates their Swelling, Hardness, and Collection of Humours; or the Decoction drank is good after grievous Fails, Bruises, &c.

59.

CHERRIES ( Cerasa) seem from Gerard to have been formerly in bad Repute in England; but Ray has set them in a more favourable Light. Black Cherry Water is of late fallen into Disgrace and Disuse. Since, by several curious and useful Experiments, it is found to have the same fatal Effects on Brutes, as Lawrel Water has. Fresh sweet Cherries loosen the Body a little, but the dried bind it. The rough and sharp are most grateful to the Stomach as Morella's; they agree best with palled, phlegmatic Stomachs; for they brace a little, quench Thirst, and excite an Appetite. Fernelius commends a Decoction of dried sour Cherries, as exceeding good in the Hypo, and by it many have been cured. In Diseases of the Head, but especially of the Tongue, Spirit of black Cherries has been much extolled. Bauhinus says, some admire a Mixture of black Cherry and Lime Flower Waters in Convulsions. The expressed Oil of the Kernels takes off Spots of the Face; eases Arthritic and Nephritic Pains. The Gum of the Tree drank in Wine cures old Coughs, mends the Complexion, sharpens the Sight and Appetite, and expels small Stones. Sweet Cherries are more grateful to the Taste, but not to the Stomach, for they soon putrify. Most Fruits should be eaten before they are quite mellow-ripe, whilst they retain a sharp, brisk, and quick Taste; for then they are less offensive to the Stomach, and not so liable to speedy Putrefaction. But I would caution all Persons against swallowing the [Page 55] Stones; a Custom that I have known fatal to some, and others have been restored with great Danger and Difficulty; yea I have known the last the Effect of swallowing Grape Stones. The Cure of both consists in a long Use of emolient, relaxing, lubricating, and very mild Lenitives first; then stronger Purges afterwards to bring them away.

60.

CHESTNUT-TREE ( Castanea) Leaves, dried and laid to the Joints, ease their Pains and Stiffness. They also discuss Swellings of the Testicles from Bruises, or any other outward Cause, from their astringent Quality; they stop the Flux of the Piles, by healing up the Mouths of the Vessels. The unripe Fruit, eaten, causes a Looseness, which the Root and Bark of the same Tree cure. The expressed Oil of the Nuts boiled, either taken inwardly, or applied outwardly, excites an Appetite, and promotes Digestion. The same with roasted and beaten Garlick, or coagulated Milk, fried and laid to the Anus, powerfuly quiets the pain of the Piles. A Decoction of the Bark in Wine stops Fluxes, either of Humours or Blood. The inner Rind of the Nut in red Wine cures Whites, Gonorrhoea, and excessive Menses, correcting the Sharpness and Thinness of the Blood.

61.

CHERVIL (sweet) ( Chaerophyllum) the common is of thin Parts, Diuretic, provokes the Menses, wastes and expels Stone and Gravel without Pain, dissolves coagulated Blood, and causes sweet Sleep, externally in Clysters, and Poultises; It is good in the Cholic, and for Urine too long retained, if fried in Butter, with Pelitory of the Wall and Parsley, and laid to the Sharebone. The Juice drank in Broth, or in its own Water, thrice drawn, says Doloeus, is a [Page 56] Specific in a Vertigo; and laid on as a Plaister, it dissolves coagulated Blood from Bruises, &c. The whole Plant is sweet and fragrant, a little acrid and sharp; mixed with other Garden Herbs, it gives them an agreeable Taste, and is eaten both boiled and raw in Sallads with other Herbs; being a little pleasant, it disposes to Venery; fried and laid to the Belly, 'tis a sure Remedy for the Gripes. Two Ounces of the Juice drank every Morning in white Wine is good in a Dropsy. For the Cholick its Juice is drank; its Decoction is given in Clysters, and the fried Leaves are laid to the Belly, used in the same way; it brings down the Menses, and expels the Stone. It cures Crudities and Loosenesses, and discusses some inward and outward Swellings. The Herb opens Obstructions, is good in Fevers, and purifies the Blood. The Root is not used.

62.

CHICK-PEAS (Cicer) is the only Pulse that neither breeds nor harbours Worms. If they are roasted till they are black, then powdered and boiled in Water, they are the only substitute that we have for Coffee, and drink very like it, only a little bitterer, which is helped by making them and Coffee mixed of each alike; Spanish Chick Peas are best for Coffee, and come nearest it. Chicks contain much Oil and Salt; some eat them freely for Food, but they are a little flatulent, stir up Lust, and some imagine they increase Seed. They are cleansing, cutting, opening, and digesting; provoke Urine, and greatly expel Gravel and Stone; and so must not be used where the Bladder is ulcerated. The Cream of their Decoction in Water opens the Belly, provokes [...] and Menses, increases both Milk and Seed. [...]heir Decoction with Rosemary is good for Dropsy, J [...]ndice, and Pains of the Sides.

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63.

CHICK-WEED (Alsine) a despised good Herb, because it is common, and not exotic▪ it is cooling, moistening, and very nourishing; some plead it to be a little astringent. Its insipid Water was used to be given to Children, for Fits, and its Juice is yet used for their Gripes. The Herb is profitably given in Broth, and other Diet, for an Atrophy, Hectic, Consumption, Inflammations of the Lungs, Breast, or Sides. It safely and powerfully cools all feverish Heats, and Heat of Urine. Its Decoction in Wort has cured a black Jaundice, when other Things fail'd. It is certain, that its Juice, outwardly applied warm, with Cloths or Spunges, and often renewed, cools the Heat of the Liver, or other Viscus, powerfully. The Herb applied in a Poultise, or its Juice used as above, or its Decoction in Fomentations, are all wonderful and efficacious Coolers and Discussers of outward Inflammations. But for this Purpose the best Poultises are made of it, Rag weed, and Groundsel, roasted under hot Ashes in a Cabbage-Leaf, for boiling dissipates their nitrous Salts, and weakens them much. Its Decoction used outwardly, stops the immoderate Flux of the Piles, and eases their Pain. Its Infusion or Decoction in Wine, is a great Restorative after long Sickness, or violent Fevers. Its Powder is used for the Falling-Sickness; or laid to the Piles, it presently stops their Flux. The Juice is vulnerary and cleansing, it heals sore and inflamed Mouths, and used in Diet, is good against spitting of Blood. It dissolves and discusses coagulated Milk in the Breasts. The Herb helps the Appetite and Digestion. The Juice used as above, is effectual against all hot Imposthumes and Swellings, Redness of the Face, Wheals, Pimples, Itch, Scab, Cramps, or Convulsions, whether the Juice be used alone, or mixed [Page 58] with Lard; the last cures sore Legs. For a strained Sinew, boil Chick-weed and red Roses in a Quart of Muscadine Wine, till a fourth Part is wasted; then add a Pint of Sheepsfoot Oil, boil it some Time, then strain and anoint herewith Evening and Morning, at a warm Fire. The Juice dropped into the Eyes, cures their Heat and Redness. It eases Pain and Heat from the Sharpness of the Blood, in any Part of the Body. It is good in hot and virulent Ulcers, and Sores in the private Parts, or on the Legs. The Herb boiled with Althaea, Foenugreek, and Linseed, made into a Poultise, and laid on Tumours and Imposthumes, ripens and breaks them, or at least eases Pain, and abates Heat and Swelling.

64.

SEA CHICK-WEED (Alsine Marina) cleanses the Reins and Bladder, provokes Urine, softens the Hardness of the Uterus, and, used with Oil of Roses and Milk, heals up Wounds. Taken with Oxymel, Dioscorides says, it is good in the Epilepsy. It cleanses and purifies the Blood.

65.

CINQUEFOIL ( Quinquefolium) or five leav'd Grass, is vulnerary, astringent, and febrifuge; it stops Fluxes of the Belly, and Haemorrhoids; Bleeding of the Nose, or Spitting of Blood, and a Cough. Some recommend it for a Palsy, Consumption, Sciatica, and Jaundice. It is said to be useful in the Stone, and Excoriations of the Kidneys, Ruptures, and Fevers. Its Juice dropped into inflamed Eyes, or used in a Gargle for sore Throats, and loose Teeth, is good. It is also said to cleanse malignant Ulcers. A Dram of the Powder taken a little before the Fit, and often repeated, is excellent in intermitting Fevers; for which Purpose [Page 59] before the Discovery of that noble Specific, the Peruvian or Jesuits Bark, this, lesser Centaury, Camomile Flowers, Gentian Root, Wormwood, Germander, Carduus Benedictus, wild Tansy, &c. were the best known. But for the Sake of the Poor, who are most liable to these, and (without the Bark) too often fatal Distempers, we might yet enquire farther, whether we have no Bark of our own that would answer the same Intent, as of the Ash-tree, or Elm-tree, taken off near the Root; or the Root-bark of the black Thorn, &c. for Lemonade, Flowers of Sal Armoniac, &c. have put off several Fits; and the Salt Draughts have cured Thousands. A Gargle of Cinquefoil Decoction is wonderful in a Thrush, and sore Mouth. This Herb, Silver-weed, Tormentil, and Strawberry Leaves, are said to be pretty much of the same Nature. Four Ounces of the Juice of this Herb, drank daily, for some Days, cures a Quinsy, Jaundice, Whites, excessive Menses, Fluxes, &c. The Root boiled in Milk is best in a Dysentery. Cinquefoi [...] Juice, drank thirty Days together, is good in the Falling Sickness. Hands daily washed often in its Decoction, cures their Shaking. For an Inflammation of the Throat, gargle often with a Decoction of Cinquefoil; or swallow, often and slowly, a Decoction of cut Mallow Leaves in Milk; or a Gargle of a Decoction of Self-heal, with Sal-prunella, or Salt-petre. The Root boiled in Vinegar, and applied, helps hard Knots, Swellings, or Lumps in any Part of the Body; or Inflammations, Imposthumes, or painful Sores, that heat and putrefy; or running and ugly Scabs or Itch; or boiled in Wine, the strained Liquor drank, and the Herb laid on, eases Aches, and Pains of the Joints, Feet, Hips, and Bowels, if continued some Days.

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66.

CLARY (Horminum) is somewhat warm, drying, cleansing, and attenuating. A Gargle of its Infusion clears the Gums from Putrefaction. A Decoction of Berberry Bark, or clarify'd Scurvy-grass Juice, or a Lotion of Water Cresses, infused in Wine or Cyder, or a Decoction of small biting Stone-crop; especially with a little Honey and Allum. Its Conserve is good for the same Case, and to cure the Whites; tho' its distilled Water drawn with Wine is preferr'd in this Case. Its Seed put into the Eyes clears them from Motes, and white or red Specks. The Mucilage of the Seed made with Water, laid to Swellings, disperses and dissolves them, and also draws out of the Flesh Thorns, Splinters, &c. The Leaves used with Vinegar and a little Honey ease Inflammations, Boils, or Felons, if applied before they begin to suppurate. The powdered Leaves provoke Sneezing, and purge the Head. Both Seed and Leaves taken in Wine excite Venery. It is said to help weak Backs, and strengthen the Reins. It is used in the Kitchen like a Tansy. A Wine is made of it. The Herb put into Ale either stupifies the Drinker, or makes him outragious. It expels Menses and After-birth; it is said to cure Barrenness, and is reputed a great Female Plant. A Tea made of it is fit for those Purposes. I add Clivers, whose Water or Infusion in white Wine is good in the Stone and simple Gonorrhoea, and Pains of the Breast and Sides, &c.

67.

CLOVE-GILLI-FLOWER ( Cariophyllus) is Cordial, and good for the Head, and all its Diseases, as Vertigo, Palsy, Epilepsy, Apoplexy, and other [Page 61] nervous Disorders. In Faintings, Palpitations, Weakness, and Pain of the Stomach. In Pestilential Fevers, either the Juice of the whole Plant given to three Ounces, or three Drams of the powdered Root, is good, but at the same Time let the Nose be well rubbed and bathed with its Vinegar. The Flowers drive away Worms, and hasten the Birth. They ease Head-achs and Tooth-achs; they pleasantly and powerfully cause Sweats, quench Thirst, and strengthen the Heart. They cure Wounds of the Head, and draw Splinters out of the Scull; laid on outwardly they are moderately drying and warm. The distilled Water is a noble Remedy for sore Eyes. Its Decoction drank is excellent in malignant Fevers. The Flowers are a fine Sudorific and Diuretic.

68.

CLOVER ( Trifolium) I find not the Assistance of any of this large and numerous Class taken into Physic, except the common purple Meadow Trefoil, or Field Honey-Suckle, and the white-flowered Meadow Trefoil. Some good Women lay great Stress on a Decoction of them drank to cure Childrens Rash or Purples. Some say their Decoction in Clysters is good for the Gripes, and to expel Flegm from the Bowels. A Poultise of them eases Inflammations. Their Juice dropped into the Eyes clears them from Films, that begin to grow over them, and hinder the Sight, and also eases Blood-shooting. Some for the Bite of Adders drink the Juice, wash the Place with their Decoction, and lay on the boiled Herb in a Poultise; for this Purpose some use an Ointment made of it with Hogs Lard. The Herb bruised between hot Tiles, and laid on the Sharebone, provokes Urine. A Decoction of the whole Plant drank a long Time cures the Whites; [Page 62] the boiled Seeds and Flowers, made into a Poultise, help hard Swellings. Its Ointment is good for Wounds, and to take away Soars.

69.

CLOWNS WOUND-WORT ( Panax coloni) Dr. Palmer says its Decoction sweetened up is powerful against Hoarseness. This, or Iron-wort, are dry, and very great Astringents, cures Haemorrhages, Fluxes of the Belly, Menses, Fluor albus, Catarrhs and Distillations, and are wonderful Vulneraries used outwardly or inwardly. They cure Childrens, or grown up Peoples, fresh Ruptures, and sour Belchings of the Stomach, stop the Bleedings of Wounds, heals them up quickly, and dry up the Moisture of old fretting Sores, and Ulcers; and the Juice or Decoction of the Herb takes off their Inflammation. But the late Use of the Friar's or Jesuit's Vulnerary Balsam seems at present to have expell'd the Use of our vulnerary Plants, and Herbs externally, out of Practice; such as have try'd it extol it much; this is its Preparation: Take Balsam of Tolu, or of the Sycamore Tree, one Ounce; Styrax Calamita, two Ounces, Benzoin three Ounces, Succotrine, Aloes, Myrrh, Olibanum, Roots of Angelica, Tops of Hypericon, of each Half an Ounce; rectify'd Spirits of Wine a Quart; mix all, and infuse six Weeks in the Sun in July, and August, or in Horse-dung, or a Week in warm Water, or on a warm Sand Heat, in a close Glass Bottle, shake it often, strain and keep for Use. It cures fresh Wounds, or old Ulcers (if first they are made Wounds) only by dropping it into the Wound, without Cloth, Lint, Tow, or Tent. It cures gall'd Horses Backs, Pricking in their Feet, &c. or given to People inwardly, to thirty or forty Drops, it is no less prevalent against the [Page 63] Cholic, Gripes, Bloody Flux, Gravel, and Disorders of the Lungs, without a Fever. If other Medicines have been applied to the Wound before, let them be washed off with Wine before this is dropped in. After the Balsam is strained off the Ingredients, Verjuice poured on them makes a good Medicine for Strains. The internal Use of this Balsam may be fatal, if used in hectical and inflammatory Disorders of the Breast. I have not once known the inward Use of either this Balsam, or of the Balsamic Tincture, or of the Balsams in Substance, succeed well in those Diseases, tho' at first they are as tractable as any other of the like Inflammations, if treated judiciously.

70.

COSTMARY, ALE-COST (Costus hortorum) and sweet Maudlin; the first is good in Crudities of the Stomach, Belching, Vomiting, stinking Breath, Pain of Stomach, or Head. Its Conserve is proper in Disorders of the Head from a cold Cause, and in the Stone, or in Uterine Disorders, from Obstructions of the Menses. It is also good in obstructed Viscera. Its Juice or Seed applied to the Navel kills Worms. It is an Antidote to too great Doses of Opiates: and cures Wounds speedily. A Balsam of this and Adders-tongue boiled in Oil, then strained, and Wax and Rosin added, makes a noble Wound Balsam. A Stove of the dried Leaf through a Funnel hastens down the Menses. The Juice outwardly kills Crabs, as doth the Juice of Rue and Tobacco, or Wormwood. It thins, cuts, divides, and gently evacuates Choler and Flegm, cleanses out tough and glutinous Humours, and hinders their Putrefaction, or Corruption; taken in Whey it strengthens the Stomach and Liver, is good against Agues, continual Pains of the Head, and [Page 64] stays all their Rheums, by promoting Perspiration. It is good in a beginning Cachexy. See Sweet Maudlin in its Place.

71.

COLUMBINE ( Aquilegia) a Dram of its Seed, given with a little Saffron in Wine, is a certain Cure for the Jaundice, if the Sick keep in Bed and sweat. Comfits made of the Seed and eaten are good in Obstructions of the Viscera, and a Vertigo. ^* Tragus says the distilled Water does the same, and is singular in Swooning and Fainting; it discusses internal Abscesses, expels Poison, and eases griping Pains. Clusius commends the powdered Seed given in white Wine in hard Labour. A Decoction of the whole Herb, taken with a little Amber, is good in a seminal Weakness. The bruised Seed boiled in Milk and Water, and drank, is used with good Success to expel the Small Pox and Measles, or given in Powder, or in Emulsion. A Dram of the powdered Root taken in Wine eases the Cholic. Some for the Stone eat a little of the Root every Morning. A Decoction of the Seed makes a good Gargle for a Quinsy, or Ulcers of [Page 65] the Throat or Jaws, or scorbutic Putrefactions of the Gums. In eruptive Fevers, the powdered Seed given to Half a Dram, or a Dram, in Carduus, or Fumitory Water, is good. An Emulsion of the Seed, made in a Decoction of Raisins or Figs, is good in Diseases attended with Malignity. Tournefort says a Tincture of the Flowers drawn in Brandy, or with twice as much Spirit of Wine, in a Pint whereof two Ounces of Gum Lacca, and two Drams of Mastick had been boiled a Quarter of an Hour, is the best Gargle in the Scurvy to cleanse the Mouth, and heal the Gums.

72.

COLT'S-FOOT, or Tassilago, is a most eminent Thoracic, or Herb for the Lungs. The green Leaves are temperate, the dry hot and sharp; it is good in Coughs, Consumptions, Shortness of Breath, either in Syrup of the Juice of the Leaves, or in Decoction, Powder, Electuary, &c. or smoaked like Tobacco, with Flowers of Sulphur, and Amber; or eaten like Cole, or in Pancakes, like Tansies fried with saged Butter. A strong Decoction of the Leaf, with Whitloe-grass poured on Rosemary, and made into a Tea, and drank long, is a Specific in the Kings-evil. Alexis says, that the whole Plant beaten up with powdered Linseed and Hogs-Lard, made into a Poultise, and renewed twice a Day on the Place, and all the Sores shall be resolved into Sweat; after they are healed, wash the Parts daily with white Wine. In Consumptions of the Lungs a Decoction or Juice of this, boiled up alone to the Consistence of a Syrup, is good; or, in preparing the Syrup of Turnip-Juice for a Cough, Colt's-foot Leaf and Ground-ivy, of each a like Quantity, cut and laid in the Bottom of the Pipkin, and the shredded Turnips put on the Top, and so stew them in an [Page 66] Oven, or boiling Water, the Pipkin close covered; in a Spitting of Blood, Nettles and Horehound may be added; and of the expressed Juice of all, make a Syrup with Sugar.

I never observed any of the true kind to grow in our Colonies, but many Plants our People call by that Name.

COMFRY-ROOT (Symphytum) is a principal Vulnerary; it is very mucilaginous and thickening, its clammy Juice sheathes the Sharpness of the Humours; its Virtue chiefly depends on this Juice, which is good for Spitting of Blood, and for Cure of Childrens and other fresh Ruptures. The Conserve, Decoction, or Juice of the Root, is good in Fluxes, from sharp Humours, or in Catarrhs and Defluctions of the Breast from sharp, salt, thin, hot Humours; or in Consumptions therefrom. A Decoction of the Flowers in red Wine drank twice a Day cures bloody Urine. A Poultise of the Roots to a pricked Tendon, or to a Part most sensibly affected with Goutish Pains, or to spreading eating Ulcers, Gangrene, &c. gives great Ease, and in the last Case much Relief. It is wonderful in Diseases from Acrimony. But in the Gout Sim. Pauli gives a much better Poultise from Sennertus, viz. of Comfry Roots three Ounces, of Althaea Roots two Ounces, Tops of Southern-wood a Handful, of St. John's-wort two Handfuls, of Camomile Flowers three Handfuls, of Elder Flowers four Handfuls, or Fenugreek Seed two Ounces, of Linseed four Ounces; prepare and boil all in Elder-water, to a Consistence; then add Ointment of Marshmallows to make a Poultise, and a very good one. Comfry Root Bark bruised, and applied twice a Day, has cured Ulcers that were deemed and pronounced cancerous, tho' recent. The Root is most noted for speedy Healing of Wounds, and curing broken, or strengthening luxated Bones. A [Page 67] thick Poultise of the Root spread on Leather eases Pains of the Arms, or broken, or dislocated Bones; it is better if Flix-weed be added to the Poultise, and laid on warm; and in a Gangrene; for which Juice of Alisanders in form of an Ointment is wonderful; or rotten Apples in a Poultise laid on warm; or of the Juice or Herb Scordium. A Poultise of Comfry is also good in the Sciatic, and Pains of the Arms, tho' attended with Privation of Motion. No [...] has it been found useless in Venereal Inability. The powdered Root, dissolved in Water to a Mucilage, is far from being contemptible in Bleedings, Fractures, and Luxations. This, and Flowers of dead Nettles, are good in a Diabetes. It is good in inward or outward Bruises, Wounds, ulcerated Lungs, excessive Menses, or Whites, fresh Claps, or old Gleets. It cools the Inflammations, eases the Pain, and stays the Bleedings of the Piles. Comfry and Daisy Leaves beaten up to a Cataplasm, and applied to Carbuncles, is good. It eases Womens Breasts pained by too much Milk. Its Juice, Powder, Syrup, Decoction, or Conserve, are used; but its distilled Water is a Jest: A good Ointment may be made of it, and an excellent strengthening Plaister; inferior to none, by boiling the Root in strong Ale, 'till it come to the Consistence of a Plaister, strain, spread on Leather, and lay on the Part shaven. It is a Specific in Excoriations, or Ulcerations of the Kidneys, especially from Cantharides, and to hasten the Callus of broken Bones.

74.

COCK'S-FOOT-GRASS (Gramen Dactyloides) bruised and applied, stays Bleeding presently, from the Nose or Wounds; but if the rough Spike be put up the Nose, and rubbed, it makes it bleed. Boil'd with Lard and Houshold Bread, it heals the Bite of [Page 68] a mad Dog, or applied to hard Tumours, it dissolves them.

75.

COCK'S-FOOT QUICK-GRASS is said to have all the Virtues of Quick-Grass.

76.

DEW-GRASS dissolves the Hardness of Womens Breasts.

77.

CORNEIL-TREE ( Cornus Mas) the Berries cool, dry, astringe and bind, whatever Way they are taken; hence they are good in Loosenesses, and bloody Fluxes; and, by their grateful Acidity, quench Thirst, and febrile Heat; a Dram of their Powder stops Fluxes. An Electuary of them is good in Fevers, bilious Defluxions, Thirst, and Want of Appetite. Their Powder mixed with unripe Oil of Olive, or of Myrtles, made into a Plaister for the Stomach, presently stops Vomiting, Looseness, or, applied to the Bottom of the Back, excessive Menses. The Leaves and Buds of the Tree are rough, harsh, and very drying, fit to heal up Wounds soon. The least Taste of the Flowers kills Bees. The Wood, or a Rod of it, held in the Hand 'till it is warm, recalls the Madness from the Bite of a mad Dog. Corneil is the Male, and Dog-berry Bush, the Female Tree.

CORNUS MAS. This I never observed to grow in our Colonies: our Dogwood-Tree is very different; our Cornus-Fern is near the same with theirs.

78.

CORIANDER ( Coriandrum) there have been many and warm Disputes whether it be a Poison or not; but as it is agreed by all Sides, that infusing it three Days in Vinegar, not only destroys its poisonous Nature, but when dried, after the Infusion, it be [Page 69] comes very useful; therefore it is better to have it prepared, to prevent not only Danger, but all Suspicion, for then, taken in sweet Wine, it kills all Worms in the Body, and increases Blood, and Seed. It heats and dries the cold Moisture of the Stomach, comforts it, helps Digestion, and represses Vapours arising from it; is good in the Cholic, for Stoppage of Urine, expels Wind, and nourishes; it corrects a bad Breath, and prevents Hurt from bad Air. It is best in cold, or moist Weather, to old People, or who have gross sluggish Humours, but agrees not so well with hot and bilious Constitutions. The powdered Seed, given in Pills, is good for cold, weak, phlegmatic Persons. The Juice of the Herb (and also the green Herb) is said to be as great and deadly a Poison as Hemlock; yet mixed with Wheat or Barley Flour, and applied outwardly, it dissolves Knots and Kernels; used with Bread it heals running and fretting Sores, Wheals, Carbuncles, and Botches rising up in the Skin or Flesh; and either the Juice or green Herb applied takes away the Swellings and Inflammations of the Cods. The same Things are done by an Ointment made of the Juice with Ceruse, Letharge, Vinegar, and Oil of Roses.

79.

COW-PARSNIP ROOT (Sphondylium) softens and discusses Tumours of the Uterus, Liver and Spleen. Surgeons mix the expressed Juice of the Plant with emollient Ointments. Schroder would have it numbered with the five Emollients, and its chief outward Use to be in Clysters, and other Anodynes, in any Form, but chiefly of Poultises. Its Seed seems to be good in Hysteric Fits. Galen says it is of a sharp and cutting Nature, good for a Cough, Shortness of Breath, and Jaundice. [Page 70] The Root is much the same, and takes off the callous Skin that grows on Fistulas, if strewed on them. The Seed also clears the Belly from tough phlegmatic Matter; eases the Liver-grown, and Hysteric, either drank, or in Fumigations; Smoke of the Seed rouses the Lethargic, and eases the Head-ach.

COW-PARSNIP. With us is much like the English, grows very rank in Bottoms by Creek Sides, with great rough Leaves, thick tall Stalks, and great Umbels of flat Seeds like Parsnips.

80.

CROSS-WORT, or MUG-WEED ( Cruciata) is drying and astringent, a chief Vulnerary, used either inwardly or outwardly; and, drank in Wine, is good in fresh Ruptures; it promotes the Expectoration of Phlegm from the Lungs. Its Decoction is drank, and a Poultise of the Herb kept on, and daily renewed for a long Time in Ruptures. Its Decoction is drank, and either its Juice, or Ointment, applied to Wounds, Ulcers, or Sores.

81.

CUD-WEED, or COTTON-WEED ( Gnaphalium) its distilled Water is good for occult Cancers of the Breast; Rags dipped in it, and applied once a Day, prevent their Ulceration; some use Arsarum Leaves dipped in it for the same Intent. The Herb, being somewhat drying and astringent, is good in Losses of Blood, Fluxes, and Quinseys. The bruised Herb infused and boiled in Oil, the Oil is good for Bruises or Falls, that make the Skin black or blue. It is a Specific for Beasts that have lost the Power of chewing their Cud. Its bruised Leaves or Decoction used to a Wound, heals it up quickly, and also helps foul Ulcers. Pliny says that the Cud-weed impious, not only cures the Quinsey, but such as drink its Juice in Wine and Milk, will never have that Disease again.

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82.

CUMMIN-SEED ( Cuminum) resolves and discusses Flatulency, it is therefore good in the Cholic, Tympany, and Vertigo; drank in sweet Wine they help Difficulty and Heat of Urine. Boiled in Wine with Figs, they are good in a Cough, and purge the Breast; put into Bread or Cheese, they help Digestion, and expel Wind. Chewed much, they prevent a stinking Breath. Their Oil is a great Antihysteric, either in or out of the Fit, whether given by the Mouth, or in a Clyster. It gives immediate Relief in a windy Cholic, Gripes, or flatulent Stomach; either given inwardly, or a few Drops of it let fall on hot toasted Bread, and laid to the Navel. This Seed, and Bay-berries put into an emollient Clyster, is wonderful in Rupture Cholics, from Wind, when the Intestines are pent up in the Cods. A Poultise of the Seeds is used with Success, in flatulent Pains of the Sides, and Pleurisies without Blood-spitting, or any great Inflammation. A Poultise of it laid warm to the Scrotum swelled with Wind or Water, and in any other windy Pains, or Swellings, if Barley-meal is mixed with it, is very efficacious. Beaten up with Vinegar, it stops the Bleeding at the Nose. Bruised and fried with an Egg, and laid to the back Part of the Head, it eases old Head-achs; and hinders Rheums from falling on the Eyes, and cures those that are Blood-shot. People that use it much look pale. Take bitter Almonds a Pound, Cummin and Wormwood Seeds of each Half a Pound, bruise all in a Mortar and mix; then in a Tin Vessel boil in a kettleful of Water four Hours; then strongly express the Liquor, which is a green Oil; Dose two Drams, or Half an Ounce, Morning and Evening, in Broth; and anoint the Belly often with it; [Page 72] Hoffman says, it is a Secret in a Tympany. He also gives this for a Hiccup: Take of Dill and Cummin Waters of each three Ounces, Oils of Anise, Dill, Carvy, and Cummin, of each three Drops, with Sugar, or Salt of Wormwood; mix. Dose, a Spoonful or two, Morning and Evening; but in a Weakness of Sight, and Impotency, refrain it.

83.

CURRANTS (Ribes) the Berries are profitably used in ardent Fevers, and hot Fluxes of the Belly (especially their Jelly dissolved in the Patients Drink.) They quench violent Thirst, stop Vomitings, excite an Appetite, check the Cholera Morbus; and are good in hot Loosenesses; for the Rob or Jelly checks feverish Heat, tempers Bile, quenches Thirst, is good in Spitting Blood, and Swelling of the Uvula.

84.

CYSTUS, or CISTUS ( Dwarf) or common small Sun-flower, with a yellow Flower, is vulnerary and astringent; may be used as Comfry for Spitting of Blood, Fluxes, Falling of the Uvula, immoderate Menses, and in all too great Losses of Blood: The Herb, boiled in red Wine, with Comfry and Plantain, is good in the above Cases. Its Decoction in red Wine, with a little Allum, is a good Gargle, and Lotion for Ulcers of the Mouth, and privy Parts. It heals up green Wounds quickly; is good in Ruptures; strengthens weak Joints, or Limbs, and the distilled Water beautifies the Face.

85.

DAFFODILL (Bulbocodium) Galen reckons it a great external Vulnerary; a Poultise of the Roots stamped with Honey, is good in Aches, Pains, [Page 73] Wrenches, or Strains of the Joints, or Burns. Applied with Honey and Nettle-seed, they take off Sun-burning, and Morphew: Beaten up with Lard and Leaven of Rye-meal Dough, they hasten the Ripening of old, obstinate, hard Swellings. Beaten up with Vinegar, and Nettle-seed, they cure Lentils, and Spots of the Face. The Roots either eaten, or their Infusion drank, is a strong Vomit. Gerard.

86.

DAISY (Bellis) is cooling, moistening, and very astringent; it is a special Vulnerary. An Extract, or Essence of the Plant, drank, dissolves, and sends off by Perspiration, all coagulated Blood, either within or without the Vessels. Mathiolus says, its Leaves cure all Inflammations of the Genitals, and commends its Decoction, drank, in Wounds that penetrate the Breast. Sim. Pauli declares, that he had often found it answer this Character; hence it is proved to be a noble Vulnerary, whether it be used internally, externally, or both; especially its Juice; yet it loosens the Belly. Its Root is with Success applied outwardly in Scrophulous Tumours. Stalks, Leaves, or Flowers, of the great Daisy, or Ox-eye, boiled in Posset Drink, and drank long, are reputed a Secret by some in the Shortness of Breath, and Consumption, or ulcerated Lungs. A Decoction of red Cole-worts, sweetened with Sugar, and drank, is good. A Decoction, or Juice of the Herb Daisy, drank, is a Specific in Diseases from indiscreet Drinking of cold Water, or other cold small Liquors, when the Body is too hot. A strong Decoction of it in Ale, or Wort, to the Consistence of a Plaister, spread on Leather, and applied, has cured broken Bones, which had been several Weeks fractured, and could by no other Means be brought to a Callus. A Poultise of Daisy Leaves, applied to [Page 74] the Cods, resolves their inflammatory Swellings. An Ointment of it cures Ulcers in those Parts. A Fomentation of it, with Leaves of Agrimony and Elder, is said to be good in a Palsy or Sciatic. It dissolves Knots and Kernels, and cures Bruises in any Part of the Body. It is also good in fresh Ruptures. An Ointment of it cures inflamed weeping Wounds. The Juice, dropped into the Eyes, cures their Rheum. In the last Cases, the small common Daisy is always preferr'd. A Decoction of Ox-eye Flowers, or of Colt's-foot, boiled up to a Consistence of a thin Syrup, and drank daily, is wonderful in Consumptions.

The Species of Daisy here mentioned, is the low Field Daisy, which I never [...] to grow wild in our Colonies, but is in some botanick Gardens.

87.

DANDELION ( Dens Leonis) is good in obstinate, putrid Fevers. Tragus commends its Water in Imposthumes, and ardent Fevers. Three or four Spoonfuls to a Dose. It is good to take off Spots of the Eyes, and Inflammations of the Members, Linnen Cloths being dipped in it warm, and applied. The boiled Herb braces a relaxed Stomach, draws it, and binds the Belly. The Juice drank prevents too frequent involuntary Emissions of Semen. A Decoction of the whole Plant, cures the Jaundice. The Root and Herb, boiled in Wine or Broth, is good in a Cough, Tabes, Cachexy, &c. This ought never to be omitted in opening Decoctions, or Drinks for Disorders of the Liver, Spleen, Mesentery, and in the Hypo; it being a more powerful Opener than wild Succory; it is also bitterer. It is a very powerful Diuretic, causes plentiful Discharge of Urine; it is therefore improper for Children and aged Persons; it is called Piss-a-Bed. ^*

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88.

DILL or ANET (Anethum) the Seed [...] and discusses, ripens Swellings, increases Milk, causes Rest, lessens Venereal Inclinations, cures Vomiting and Hiccup; the tender Leaves and fresh Roots are Diuretic, and of great Service in the Stone. A Decoction of the Seed in Oil and Water, drank, then a Crumb of Bread, dipped in warm Water, and eaten, wonderfully helps, and refreshes, such as are languishing in the Iliac Passion, from hardened Excremen [...]s, even tho' they have vomited [Page 76] u [...] their foetid Faeces. In a Hiccup, from a cold Cau [...] take four Drops of the Oil, and Half an Ounce of Oil of sweet Almonds, mix and drink, it is very efficacious. The Seed is used in Anodyne Clysters. The Tops boiled in Sallad Oil, and mixed into a Poultise with Anodyne and somniferous Plants, is good for the Head. The Herb is very useful in the Cholic, and nephritic Pains. For the Hiccup take Dill and Cummin Waters, of each three Ounces; Oils of Dill, Carvy, Anise, and Cummin, of each three Drops, mixed; Dose a Spoonful or two every Night and Morning. Such as have a dim Sight, and are sluggish to Venery, should refrain this Herb. A Poultise of green Dill-seed, discusses flatulent Tumours, if recent; but dry Seed must be used afterwards to discuss. The Seed increases Milk in phlegmatic Constitutions only, but it must not be used inwardly in Inflammations. Cold, swelled Limbs, rubb'd with Oil of Dill, are much eased, if not cured by it.

89.

DOG-GRASS, QUICK-GRASS, or COUCH-GRASS, (Gramen caninum) is the most medicinal of all [Page 77] Grasses. Its Decoction opens Obstructions of the Liver, Kidneys, and Spleen; is good in Gripings and Inflammations of the Belly, or Stomach; washes Gravel, Sand, or Sludge out of the Reins, Ureters, or Bladder, and helps their Ulcers. The Roots, bruised and applied, heal Wounds. The Seed expels Urine more powerfully, stays Vomiting and Looseness. It is judiciously added to all Decoctions against Inflammations, and Obstructions; but let Nitre be always added to the Decoctions for the first. Two or three Spoonfuls of the fresh crude Juice of the Grass, drank every Morning, with a little Sugar, is wonderful in Obstructions of the Gall-Bladder; or habitual, or often returning Jaundices. Sheep and Oxen, afflicted with the Stone in Winter, are certainly cured by eating this Grass in the Spring; hence we have a clear Proof of the Excellency of this Grass in the Spring. Its Decoction is good in malignant Fevers, and Childrens Loosenesses; outwardly it eases Pains of the Head, Inflammations of the Eyes, checks Defluxions, is useful in the Tooth-ach, and discusses gouty Swellings. In a Word, it is one of the greatest and powerfullest Openers of Obstructions that we have; especially as it both cools and binds much; which are rare and singular Properties in Deobstruents. Its Salt with Fern Root is a Specific in Worms. The Salt lies at the Bottom of the distilled Waters.

90.

DOCKS (Lapathum) (sharp-pointed) the Root either dug up fresh, or dried in the Shade (says Sim. Pauli) either boiled alone, for the Use of the more delicate and cleanly, or with the White of Hens Dung; herewith wash the Hands and Feet of such as have Scab or Itch; however mean and trifling this may appear, it has not a Fellow; let the Scab be never so great, scurfy, or ugly, ten Nights [Page 78] washing in this, and laying on the boiled Dock Roots all Night like a Poultise, will cure it; this he saw from Experience. The fresh Roots must be cut, and boiled to a Mucilage, and strain'd; in this Mucilage dissolve the White of the Hens-dung. For this same nasty Disease, he gives us two good Receipts; first, Take Juice of this Dock, Monks Rhubarb, and greater Celandine, of each a Dram; Butter four Ounces; mix, and boil to the Consumption of the Juices; then add Diapompholigos one Ounce, Cerus two Drams, Allum a Dram, Frankincense Half a Dram, Flour of Brimstone a Scruple; beat them all in a wooden or leaden Mortar; if it is too dry, add more Butter to bring it to a Liniment; second, Take of this Dock Root, and of Althaea, of each Half an Ounce; Elecampane Root; two Drams, Leaves of Birth-wort, Money-wort, Scabius, Plantain, of each Half a Handful; boil all in Spring Water to a Mucilage, put it through a Hair Sieve, and add Flour of Brimstone, two Scruples; Balsam Peru, to make a Liniment to rub on. Powder of Dock Root with Vinegar, is a certain Remedy for Tetters, Ringworms, rubbed with Dock Bark, are soon taken off. The Root infused in Beer, and drank, is a special Antiscorbutic. A Decoction of the Root alone, or with other Specifics, is of great Efficacy in the Jaundice. The toughest Flesh, boiled with Dock, becomes very tender. The powdered Seed strengthens the Liver, and stops Fluxes; especially if mix'd with Tormentil Roots, and Sugar of Roses. A Decoction of the Leaves, drank warm, loosens the Belly, like boiled Lettuce. Its distilled Water clears the Face. A slippery Decoction of the Root, drank to Half a Pint in a Morning, purges smartly.

91.

BLOOD-WORT is only a small red Dock, and [Page 79] has near the same Virtues of the last Dock. Its express'd Juice, or the Leaves boiled in Broth, loosen the Belly. The Seed powdered, and drank in any astringent Liquor, stops excessive Menses, and other Fluxes.

92.

MONKS RHUBARB, or GARDEN PATIENCE, is another Dock; two Ounces of the powdered Root, and a Scruple of Ginger, taken in a Morning, purge yellow Bile, and watery Humours. Juice of the Root with Brimstone, cures Outbreaks on the Skin. The Juice with Lupin Meal, cures Freckles, Spots, &c. on the Body. The Juice, or Powder of the Root, taken in Wine, expels Sand and Gravel. The Seed stops all Fluxes. Water or Decoction of the Leaf, cleanse and clear the Skin. A Decoction of the Root, cures the Jaundice. The Juice, dropp'd into the Ears, eases their Pain. Gargled in the Mouth, it cures the Tooth-ach. The Seed cures Pain and Loathing of the Stomach from Bile.

93.

The great WATER-DOCK (Hydrolapathum) which grows in watery, marshy, stagnant Places, or in watery Ditches. The Root (if old) is thick, broad, round, spongy, and juicy; divided below into several thickish Parts, compassed with Fibres, black without, and, when just dug up fresh, it is white within; but in the Air quickly turns yellow; and when dry it is brown. It has the fewest and longest Leaves of all the Dock Kind, being from a Foot and a Half to two Foot long each; and three or four Fingers broad; broadest in the Middle, and sharp at the Point, of a leaden blackish Colour above, and paler below; with palish green Veins, of a thickish firm Substance, and hard to the Touch; they fall in the End of August. The Stalks are from [Page 80] two to four Foot long; strait, round, green, and hollow. The Flowers and Seeds are much like these of the common Dock. (See Ray's Description of it, p. 172.) Muntingus will have this to be the true Britannica of the Antients; and all its Parts, Root, Stalk, Leaves, Flowers, and Seeds, are all very astringent, indurating, and conglutinating; hence it stops and cures all Putrescences, as St. Anthony's Fire, Herpes, Phagedenics, Gangrenes, &c. It stops all Fluxes of Blood, Piles, Menses, &c. And inwardly it does all that other cold Astringents can do. It cures the Nerves and their Disorders, as broken, cut, contracted, shaking, Cramps, Palsies, feverish Heats and Colds. It expels Venom, drives away Serpents, and cures their Bite; hence it is justly reputed Alexipharmac; it is an astringent; it heals all Sorts of Quinsies, Relaxations of the Uvula, and Disorders of the Mouth, Jaws and Stomach. It cures Imposthumes, Tumours, and Ulcers; and stays sundry Rheums. It cures Ulcers of the Legs, by applying green fresh Leaves to them every twelve Hours. Its Juice may be dried in the Sun, or thickened at a slow Fire, for Use. (See much more to this Purpose in Muntingus, Cap. 16. who seems extremely fond of it.) The Scurvy being so rooted in some People, that a simple Decoction of the Herb will not cure it: He therefore gives us the following Receipt, which he says the World never had before, is more precious than Gold, and the Medicine should be kept against all Suspicions of the Scurvy, is an inestimable Treasure; it is this: Take Saffron, two or three Ounces, Mace, Liquorice, Cinnamon, black Pepper, Gentian-Root, of each three Ounces; of this Dock Root six Ounces; pound all grosly, and mix in two Gallons of Wine; strong Elder Vinegar, two Quarts; three Yolks of Eggs: mix and infuse all [Page 81] in an earthen glaz'd Vessel, well covered in hot Ashes for two Hours; or in Horse-dung, or in a Sand-heat, which exceeds not Milk-warm; then set it by for Use; Dose from three to six Ounces, every Morning, for fourteen, twenty, or thirty Days together: Drink ordinary Rhenish Wine, (if accustomed to it) or fine, clear Small Beer; with three of four Spoonfuls of the above Wine in it, when thirsty. If the Person is feverish, or hectically disposed, leave out the Pepper; [...]nd put in a double Quantity of [...]: When the first Wine is drawn off, pour more [...]pon the same Ingredients. It is not only a good [...] in the Scurvy, but in all nervous Disorders.

94.

DROP-WORT. ( Filipendula) A Decoction of its Root, expels Urine and Gravel; gives great Relief in a scalding Heat, and making of Urine by Drops. The Juice and Powder of its Root are commended in the Falling-Sickness, and Swimming of the Head. It, with Fennel-Seed, is good in a Shortness of Breath, and windy Stomach. It is of special Use in the Whites, and excessive Lochia. Prevotius often cured bloody Fluxes, with a Dram of its Powder. Its Decoction in Wine is good in Fistula's, as is every Preparation of Agrimony; and the inward and outward Use of the Juice of Dove's-Foot, or Crane's-Bill. Of all vegetable Poisons, Dropwort, with a Hemlock-Leaf, is the most terrible; what still adds to the Mischief, is, we know of no Antidote to it; yea the very Milk-white Juice at the Root, is so destructive, that the least Drop of it, swallowed, is immediately followed by a frightful and fatal Inflammation and Gangrene. The Remedies against Arsenic, and Sublimate, may be tried; or large Quantities of warm Water, drank; or warm Water and Oil; or warm Broth.

The Species of Filipendula, here mentioned, I have not observed to grow with [...]s.

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95.

DUCKS-MEAT (Lens Palustris) is cooling; good in Inflammations, and Childrens Ruptures. Ray says, that an Infusion of it in white Wine, drank nine Mornings together, six Ounces at a Time, was communicated to him by Dr. Bates, as an infallible Secret in the Jaundice.

96.

ELECAMPANE ( Enula campana) Root is bitter, hot, drying, and aromatic. This Root either in Decoction, Infusion, Conserve, Syrup, Electuary, or Powder, is good for a Shortness of Breath, Cough, or Asthma. For an old Cough, Doloeus extols its Decoction with Currants; eaten candied like Ginger, it is good against the Plague. It is a fine Stomachic, and promotes Digestion. Its Decoction, or Powder, taken with Sugar, expels Urine, and Menses. I have known its Decoction, with Astringents, and Althaea Root, cure the making of bloody Urine. Its Infusion in white Wine, is good in the Green Sickness. The Decoction, drank, is proper for the Cramp, Convulsions, and Sciatica Pains. Boiled in Wine, or the Juice infused in Wine, and drank, kills and expels Worms of the Belly. The Root is an Ingredient in Lobelius's Syrup of Hedge Mustard; whereby, he says, he has cured the most obstinate Hoarseness. It is a powerful Drier of the Scab, if the Parts are either washed with its Decoction, or rubbed with an Ointment made of it. It is a good Root for cold and windy Stomachs; or for Stitches in them, or the Sides; or in Hysterics; or to expel Sand and Gravel. It is somewhat laxative. It rouses the Spirits, and chears the Body. In Wine it clears and strengthens the Sight. Its Decoction is good in Spitting of Blood, and, boiled [Page 83] with great Daisies, it is good for Weakness, Slipperiness, or Looseness of the Joints, after Fractures, or Dislocations; or in fresh Ruptures. To expel Mercury lodg'd in the Body, take of this Root two Ounces; Fennel Root, an Ounce and an Half; white Wine two Pints and an Half; infuse all twenty-four Hours; then boil to a Quart; strain; Dose Half a Pint Morning and Evening, in Bed; lie and sweat after it; the Sweat will be first yellow, but continue it till it changes the Colour. This Decoction is also good for the Mischief from Fumes of Mercury, Sulphur, Cinnabar, or Antimony.

97.

ELDER-TREE (Samb [...]cus) our Climate scarce produces either a more useful, or despised Shrub. Blotwitzch has wrote a whole Book on it, which deserves well to be read; he thinks it contains a compleat medical Chest. The inner Bark purges watery Humours, and is good in a Dropsy. The young tender Buds boiled in Wine, Table Beer, or Water, and sweetened, do the same, but more mildly; fitter therefore for weak Bodies. The same, powdered and drank, only move a costive Body; for in drying they lose their purging Quality, with their Moisture. An Ointment of the inner Bark, is good for Burns. The Flowers discuss, soften, and resolve; cause Sweat, and ease Pain; they are often used inwardly, to cure or prevent St. Anthony's Fire, Inflammations, and Quartans; and outwardly in Clysters for the Cholic, Burns, and Erysipela's in Ointment. A Vinegar of them is grateful to the Stomach; excites an Appetite; cuts, and thins, thick, crude Humours. The Berries are Alexipharmac, and Sudorific. Their Spirit is justly rank'd among the best Diaphoretics, and is a fine Febrifuge. Their Wine, mixed with either white Wine, [Page 84] or Rhenish, is proper in Dropsies. Or their Juice mix'd with Chicken Broth, wherein much Parsley Root was boiled and strained out, is not despicable for the same Purpose. The Seeds cleanse and purge violently upwards and downwards. A Decoction of the middle Bark, given with Syrup of Poppies, is a powerful Sudorific; for Narcotics, added to Diuretics or Diaphoretics, render them strong Sudorifics. The Leaves boiled in Oil, with Salt, for a Fomentation, cure Swellings, or Puffings up of the Feet. The Flowers, candied with Sugar, are good in arthritic Pains. An Earthen Vessel filled with Leaves, stretched out straight, without Folds, often press'd down, and filled up, then covered, and set under Ground a Year, and taken up, at the Top is a nasty Crust, at the Bottom a most noble efficacious Oil; often found successful in arthritic Pains. Dwarf-Elder is both more disagreeable to the Stomach and Smell, and purges more violently than Elder. A Rob of the Berries is often used to prevent Dropsies, for it is a good Sudorific. Two Parts of Elder-Flower Water, and one of Spirit of Wine mixed, are often used with Success in a St. Anthony's Fire. Some use Elder-flower Water, beaten up with Oil of Elder, and a little Spirit of the Berries; or Oil of Elder and Canary mixed, and beaten up, answer the same Purpose. My eldest Daughter Mary, in a dangerous confluent Small Pox, had all the Scarf Skin from her Wrists, to near her Elbows, on both Arms, first rise up round the Arms like two full large Blisters; then they broke, and came slipping off, like Tops of Gloves; when other Means could neither mitigate the violent Pain, nor abate the dangerous Discharge of Serum from th [...] Parts, a Fomentation of Elder Leaves, boiled in Water, and applied, quickly answered both Intentions with surprizing Success: The same good Effect it had on [Page 85] some others, and failed in none. Take Bark of Elder Root, one Ounce; of Asarum, two Ounces; Cinnamon, a Dram and an Half; boil all in Milk, strain, and drink it, just as the Fit of an every Day Ague begins; it works upwards and downwards, and cures. The Leaves and tender green Buds, are loosening; the middle Bark purges; the inner Bark purges strongly. The powdered Seed, drank daily, a Dram at a Time, reduces too corpulent Bodies. The Leaves, boiled in Water till they are soft, then add Linseed or Sallad Oil, lay it on a Cloth, and apply it to the pain'd Piles, till it cool, then apply another; so change them for an Hour or more; then put the Patient warm to Bed, Gerard says, it has not once failed to cure at once or twice using. The green Leaves pounded, and laid to hot Swellings, or Gout, give great Relief. A Dram of the powdered Seed drank daily, in white Wine, does Service in a Dropsy. A Poultise of the Leaves, and Barley Meal, cures hot Swellings. The Fungus on the Tree, called Jews Ears, gathered dry, will keep good a Year. A Decoction of it in Milk, or its Infusion in Vinegar, is used for a Gargle in a Quinsy; or other Inflammations in the Mouth, Throat, Uvula, or Jaws. Given in Rose Water, or Wine, Tragus says, it is good in all Swellings and Inflammations. Its Infusion in Vinegar, helps Diseases of the Eyes. After Elder Berries are bruised, and their Juice expressed, there may be an Oil got by Expression, which moves both by Vomit and Stool; it is a curious Secret, and notable Experiment in a Dropsy. To cure Blood-shot Eyes from a Stroke, take Elder Flowers, an Ounce and an Half; Comfry Roots, six Ounces; Solomon's Seal, two Ounces; Bean-Meal, one Ounce; boil them in Water, strain out the Liquor, and foment with it; and let the Ingredients in the Bag be used in a Poultise. [Page 86] An excellent Pain-easing, and ripening Poultise, is, Flowers of Elder, one Ounce; Roots of Althaea, white Lillies, of each two Ounces; Leaves of Mallows a Handful; Powder of Linseed one Ounce; boil them in Milk or Water to a Pulp; add to them an Onion roasted under the Ashes, Ointment of Basilicon Half an Ounce; Oil of Lillies enough to make a Poultise, and apply it. The middle Bark scrap'd off, and boiled in Oil to an Half, then strained and used, eases general Pains, by anointing the Parts. For old Ulcers on the Legs, apply Juice of Elder Leaves, or add Plantain Juice, with Sugar of Lead to it; but let the Juice be daily fresh express'd; for, if they are clarified to keep, they have not the like Effect. For the Dropsy boil three Handfuls of the inner Bark in Milk Water to a Half, and drink it daily. Pound and boil the inner Bark, gather the Liquor that swims on the Top, and, after shaving, and strong rubbing, anoint the Head with it; it brings on new Hair, where it was fallen off. Leaves of black Elder put hot into two warm Sacks, and, the Sick complaining of general outward Pains, laid between them, let him sweat freely; if they are not cured, let them repeat it again. A strong Lixivium of the Ashes of Cabbage-stalks, and Roots, to wash the Head, restores the Hair; or the shaved Head, often rubbed with raw Onions, and Honey; or a Lee of the Ashes of Mallow Roots rubbed on, and Mallow Juice used after it; or an Ointment of pounded Water Lillies, made with Butter, strained and used as before; or the Juice of great Radishes often rubbed on the Head; or rub it with the Decoction of Vervain in Oil. To cleanse the Head from Scales, and Brans, use Powder of Spindle-tree Berries. To kill small Insects that eat the Hair Roots, and make it fall off; use a Liniment of white Briony Root, and Honey; or [Page 87] wash the Head with a strong Decoction of Master-wort Root; or with a Decoction of Roots, and Tops of Mallows, made in the Person's Urine, to steam the Head. For little Ulcers on the Head, wash them with a Decoction of Oak Leaves and inner Bark. For slight Wounds on the Head, drink a Tincture of Betony Flowers drawn in Spirit of Wine, in small Beer.

98.

DWARF ELDER, SWALLOW WORT, or DANE WORT ( Ebulus) answers all the Purposes of Elder; but, as it has a more offensive Smell, so it is much stronger in Operation. The Bark and Seeds purge Water strongly, therefore is a Specific in a Dropsy, and in all Diseases from watery Humours. Its Infusion works more violently than its Decoction; for in boiling it loses much of its purging Quality; but both should be corrected. The Roots, Berries, and Seeds, work more powerfully than the Leaves and Buds. The bruised Leaves laid on Burns heal them. A Decoction of the Leaves, in some Lee for a Fomentation, eases gouty Pains; but the expressed Oil of the Seed is better; three Ounces of the distilled Water of the Roots, drank twelve Days together on an empty Stomach, cures Pains, Infarctions or Stuffings of the Spleen; the Leaves used either in a Fomentation, or Poultise, or both Ways, discuss hard Swellings; and used in a Bath, or Stove, to sit over, they relieve Disorders, Pains, and Swellings of the Uterus, or Belly. The Juice of the Root turns Hair black. The inner Substance of the Roots, taken in red Wine, stops Whites and Menses. ^*

DWARF ELDER. I never could find in any of our Colonies.

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99.

ELM TREE ( Ulmus) Leaves, Branches, and Bark, are astringent. The Bark or Leaves, beaten up with Vinegar, are powerful against the Leprosy, and heal Wounds; but especially if the inner Bark like a Rowler is wrapp'd round the Wound. A Decoction of the Root Bark brings Fractures quickly to a firm Callus. The same Decoction softens Hardness of the Joints, and resolves Convulsions of the Nerves. The Oil, that swims on this Decoction, cures Baldness from Hair fallen off. An Ounce of the Bark infused in Water, or Wine, and drank, purges Water and Phlegm, says Dioscorides. The Bark boiled in Water to the Consistence of a Syrup, then strained and mixed with a third Part of Aqua Vitae, is a singular Remedy against the Sciatic Pains, if the Part grieved be fomented with it. The Liquor found in the Blisters of the Leaves, beautifies the Face, clears off all freckly Spots, Pimples, spreading [Page 89] Tetters, &c. It, with Spleen-wort, cures fresh Rupture [...], if the Truss is set close to the Part. A Poultise of the Bark boiled in Wine, beaten up, and applied warm, and left on 'till it is dry, is good in Aneurisms. But of the prodigious Efficacy of this Bark, in Wounds, Punctures, and Bruises of the Eyes, we find two astonishing, and almost incredible Histories, in Hen. ab Heers Obs. Med.

100.

ERYNGO ROOT ( Eryngium) is good in all Obstructions of the Menses, Liver, Spleen, Gall Bladder, and Kidneys; in the Jaundice and Cholic. The candied Root is thought to be a Stimulus to Venery. The Root provokes Urine▪ expels Poison, Sand, Gravel, Birth, &c. It discusses Wind, and promotes Conception in a cold Uterus. It is useful in Cramp and Sciatica. The candied Root is used against contagious Air, and to meagre consumptive Habits. Laid Plaister-ways on the Belly below the Navel, it prevents Abortions: A Decoction or Powder of the Root is mostly used for the above Disorders of the Liver, Spleen, Reins, Jaundice, Dropsy, Cholic, Stone, &c. And this Decoction, drank every Night at Bed-time for fifteen Days, helps Strangury, Dysury, and other Diseases of the Kidneys.

This Species of ERYNGO, grows on the Sea Coasts in Europe; but I have not observed it on our Sea-Coasts: We have a lesser kind grows in our Marshes.

101.

EYE-BRIGHT (Euphrasia) whether used as a Tea, or drank in Powder with white Wine, or chew'd and swallowed alone; or its Juice, or distilled Water is drank; used any, or all these Ways, it is strengthening, and enlarges the Sight greatly, and restores a decayed or weak one; either the bruised Plant applied to, or the Juice or distilled Water dropped into inflamed Eyes, cures them. Some in [Page 90] their Vintage make a Wine of the Herb for their common chearing Glass; and find old, weak, or dim Eyes, made clear, young, and strong by it. ^* But Casper Hoffman will only allow this Herb to [Page 91] be proper in cold Cases from Phlegm and Rheum, for he thinks the Herb very hot and dry: But it is not its Heat, Dryness, or Bitterness, that makes it beneficial to the Eyes, but the Subtilty of its Parts, or perhaps some other yet unaccounted for Property. But Fred. Hoffman says it is good in Suffusions and Dimness of Sight. The Herb, boiled in Wine, and drank, is a Remedy in the Yellow Jaundice. Take powdered Eye-bright, two Ounces; Mace, half an Ounce, mix; after due Evacuation, Dose is two Ounces. To this Dodonaeus adds Sugar and Fennel; it is good in Suffusions and Cataracts. Fabric. Hild. says, that so great is the Virtue and Efficacy of this Herb in Weakness of Sight, that he observed some of Seventy Years old, who had lost their Sight by much Study and Watchings, recover it again. Dr. Tancred Robinson says, that Oculists give it to their Patients in Sallads, Broth, Bread, and infused in their Drink; and use it in Salves, and Fomentations. Its Powder is preferred to its Wine: Dose, from one to three Drams in a Glass of Fennel or Vervain Water. Parkinson says, the Herb helps a weak Brain, or Memory. Some make a Conserve of the Flowers. The Herb infused in our Table Beer may be used instead of its Wine.

EYE-BRIGHT. I never saw it growing, neither in Woods, Fields, nor Gardens, tho' I have often sowed it: Several Plants in this Country are called by that Name, but erroneously.

102.

FENNEL, or FINCLE, ( Foeniculum) when we observe or suspect any Malignity joined with putrid Fevers, that requires Opening and Discussing by Sudorifics, Fennel is best; hence in small Pox and [Page 92] Measles there is nothing better than a Decoction of the Seed. The powdered Seed, taken every Morning fasting with Sugar, wonderfully strengthens the Sight; or if the Seed is infused in Vinegar, dry'd and mixed with Sugar, and a little Cinnamon, it surprizingly preserves the Sight, even to the very old Age. Nothing exceeds Fennel to cure Dimness of Vision. The Juice of the Leaves and Roots, or the distilled Water dropped into the Eyes, does the same. The Seed strengthens the Stomach, takes away Loathings, and expels Wind. It is also good for Diseases of the Breast; for the Plant opens, discusses, resolves, in diuretic, breaks Wind; expectorates tough Phlegm, increases Milk, and softens the Throat. The Seed corrects purgatives. A Decoction of the Root and Seed is good against Fumes of Mercury. Put powdered Sugar Candy into the hollow Stalk of Fennel, Seal up the Stalk, and let it grow 'till the Sugar is melted, then pour it into a Bottle to be dropped into the Eyes. The Seed provokes Urine, and eases Pain of the Stone. Leaves and Seed boiled in Barley-water, and drank, increase Milk in Nurses. It is good in a Hiccough; and cures Loathing. The Herb boil'd in Broth, and used in Spoon-meat, reduces or prevents Corpulency. A Decoction of the Seed, in Urine drank, is an Antidote to the Biting of Serpents, and Poison of Mushrooms. The Seed and Root, boiled and drank, open Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen and Gall; therefore proper in a Cachexy, Jaundice, Cramp, &c. The Seed is proper for a Shortness of Breath, Wheezing, Stuffing of the Lungs, and promotes Menses and Lochia. The Roots are much used in Drinks and Broth, to purify the Blood, provoke Urine, cleanse the Liver, and restore a fresh Complexion after long Sickness. Four Ounces of Fennel Juice, taken every Morning [Page 93] fasting for ten Days together, is good in Quartans; but go immediately to a Warm Bed; in sundry Persons, it operates variously, as by Sweat, Spitting, &c. A Decoction of Fennel Roots in Wine, and applied to the Eyes, has cured a Suffusion. The Seed is good against Abortion. The Herb, drank daily in Tea, is good for wandering Night Pains, and disturbed, short Sleeps. Ashes of the Root taken alone, or mixed with Honey, is excellent for the Thrush. Its Decoction, with white Poppy-seed and Liquorice, promotes Spitting. Roots of Fennel, Burdock, and Sarsaparilla, boiled, strained, and drank, cure Tremors from Mercury. The Seed and its Oil are admirable in nephritc Cholics.

103.

HOGS-FENNEL ( Peucedanum) SOW-FENNEL, SULPHUR, or BRIMSTONE WORT, or HARESTRONG, &c. its Root is impregnated with a resinous Juice, warming, drying, attenuating, and expectorating; causes a Discharge of tartarous Matter, and Bile. It is good in Diseases of the Breast, as Cough, Shortness of Breath, Windiness, Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys; and is said to expel Urine and Gravel. It is used outwardly for Megrim and Head-achs from Catarrhs; for hard Swellings, and cleansing obstinate Ulcers. The Antients valued it much for all Diseases seated in the Nerves, as Lethargy, Epilepsy, and Phrenzy. A Conserve of the Root is a noble Pectoral and Antihisteric Medicine. It is said that the Juice of the Herb with Vinegar and Rosewater; or a little Euphorbium, put to the Nose, is good in a Lethargy, Phrensy, Palsey, Vertigo, Epilepsy, Chronic Head-achs, Sciatica, Cramp, or other nervous Diseases, if used with Oil and Vinegar. Seeing [Page 94] foetid Gums in general are the best nervous Medicines, this cannot be a contemptible One. The Juice dissolved in Wine, or mixed with an Egg, is good for a Cough, Shortness of Breath, or windy Pains of the Body. It opens the Body gently, expels Wind, and softens a hard Spleen. It is good in hard Labour, and eases Pains of the Bladder, Kidneys, and Uterus. The Juice mixed with Wine, and dropped into the Ears, or hollow Tooth, eases their Pain. The powdered Root cleanses and cures foul Ulcers; it draws Thorns or other Things out of the Flesh, and heals the Wounds, or Sores. It is good in healing and warming Ointments. The Juice is stronger than the Root, which is balsamic, oily, of a loose Texture, and smells like Turpentine. Five or six Ounces of the Decoction of the Root purges gently. The Antients used it much in Pleurisies.

HOGS-FENNEL. I believe we have none of it growing in our Colonies.

104.

FERN, MALE and FEMALE ( Filix) a Dram of their powdered Root boiled in Mead, and drank, kills all Sorts of Worms in the Belly; and is the only grand Secret boasted of by Mountebanks in this Case ^*. A Decoction of the Root in Wine drank [Page 95] some Days, cures Swelling and Hardness of the Spleen; but it is injurious to big-bellied Women, causing Miscarriage. The fresh Root bruised, or its Juice, or the dried Root sprinkled with Rosewater, or Spring Water, is singular in all Sorts of Burns; for a slimy Juice squeezes out of them that cures the Part. In a Famine a Meal is made of the Roots, and Wash-Balls are made of the Tops burnt. The Root powdered dries up foul malignant Ulcers, and heals them. The Root will afford an excellent Ointment for all Wounds, Pricks, &c. The Smoke of the Leaves drives away Gnats, &c. The Roots boiled in Wort are good against the Stone. Some will have the Roots to be great Openers of Obstructions, a good Vulnerary, and proper in Consumptions, and ulcerated Lungs.

105.

WATER FERN, or OSMOND ROYAL (Filix Florida) is most effectual in all Wounds, Ulcers, and fresh Ruptures; and, being a little warm and sharp, is good in Cholic and Spleen. A Decoction of the white Part of the Root, or it bruised in Liquor drank, is wonderful in Wounds, Bruises, or Falls, &c. A Conserve of its tender Buds is a Specific in the Rickets; especially if Male Fern Root and Hart's-tongue be added. A Syrup of the Root is special in ulcerated Lungs, and inward Imposthumes. This Root, steeped in Water, Gin, or Brandy, 'till the Liquor become a thick, stiff Mucilage, has cured many most deplorable Pains [Page 96] of the Back, that have confined and almost distracted the unhappy Sufferers, kept close to Bed for many Weeks, and could neither move, nor be shifted; the Mucilage was only rubbed on the Vertebrae of the Back, Evening and Morning, for some Days. Why may it not have the like Effect in several other Pains?

106.

FEVERFEW ( Matricaria) its Decoction, drank, is useful in Uterine Disorders; it expels Menses, After-birth, and cures Hysterics. It answers all that can be expected from Bitters. The Herb, or its Juice, kills Worms as surely as Wormwood or Centaury, and is useful in the Gout. Its Juice, taken to four or five Spoonfuls, moves the Belly like all other good Deobstruents. Its Smell is fatal to Bees. Its very Name declares it a Febrifuge. Its Leaves warmed in a Frying-Pan, and laid on the hinder Part of the Head, and renewed several Times, ease the Megrim. Its Decoction brings down the Lochia, and if they either stop, or come sparingly, or Hysterics supervene, a Decoction of this, with Camomile Flowers and Mugwort, brings them down afresh, and all Pains, Stoppage, and Symptoms, cease presently. I have often known its Decoction used with good Success; the Liquor was drank warm at going to Bed, and the strained out Herb applied in a Poultise to the Sharebone, to provoke the Menses: Or the Decoction drank, and a Stove of the boiled Herb sat over: Or a Decoction of it and Brook-lime drank, and a Poultise of the Herbs applied as before; they all answer that same Purpose. It is also good for all Colds in the Uterus or Pudenda. The Decoction, drank with Honey, is very good in Colds, Coughs, Stuffing of the Breast, and to cleanse the Reins and Bladder [Page 97] from all Sand, Gravel, Slime, or Stones in them. Its Powder, taken with Oxymel, purges Phlegm and Choler mildly, and is good in Shortness of Breath, Hypo, and Lowness of Spirits. Its Decoction or Juice, and Conserve taken, and the Herb bruised, and laid to the Wrists, with Bay Salt, helps Spring Agues. It is an Antidote to Opium and Henbane. It is among the chief of the Uterine and Antihysteric Plants, ^* and is therefore a good [Page 98] nervous Herb. For a Pain in the Side after Fevers, take Feverfew, or Mint, or Pennyroyal, boil in [Page 99] new Milk a Pint, strain it gently, drink the Milk, and apply the Herb to the pained Place, it cures it.

107.

FIG-TREE (Ficus) though originally an Exotic, yet is now planted in many Gardens. Dried Figs are used in Coughs, Asthma's, and Disorders of the Lungs; and in Decoctions, to Children in Small-Pox, and Measles; and in Gargles for Inflammations of the Jaws and Tonsils. Being laxative, they are eaten by Big-bellied Women, from four to twelve at a Time, in a Morning; and they mostly open the Belly. They also eat them roasted, daily, some Time before their Labour, to make it easy, and facilitate the Birth. Applied in a Poultise, they soften and ripen Imposthumes and Buboes, very much; but, being loosening, they are very unfit for them that have too slippery Intestines, nor are they suited to bilious Constitutions. A Decoction of Hyssop and Figs, in Water, causes easy Spitting. Figs, Wheat-flour, Powder of Fenugreek, and Linseed, with Althaea Roots, all made into a Poultise, soften, ripen, and break Boils, Buboes, Imposthumes, and all hot Swellings behind the Ears, &c. Figs boiled in Wormwood Wine, with Barley-Meal, and made into a Poultise, and put to the Belly, are good in Dropsies. The Leaves, boiled with Althaea Roots, and beaten to a Poultise, are good in scrophulous Tumours. The Milky Juice of the Leaves, and Barley Meal, used in a Poultise, takes off the Discolouring and Deformities of the Skin. This [Page 100] Juice with Grease, takes away Warts. This Milk, put in a hollow Tooth, cures the Tooth-ach, or laid to the Anus, it opens the Piles. This Milk put into a green Wound, from the Bite of a mad Dog, or other venomous Animal, presently eases the Pain, and cures the Part. Haec Gerard.

108.

FIG-WORT (Scrophularia Major) is bitter and stinking, resolvent, and emollient, and fit to discuss the most obstinate Tumours, either cold, or inflammatory. It is good for Wounds in the tendinous Parts. Its Juice cleanses the most putrid Ulcers, even though carcinomatous. An Ointment made of the Roots of this, and Pile-wort Tops, with Wax and Turpentine, to dissolve scrophulous Tumours, and abate Pain, Swelling, and Inflammation of the Piles, has wonderful Success; nor is it bad in Tetters and Ringworms; but then a Dram of the powdered Root should be drank every Morning, in a Glass of its Infusion in Wine. The Decoction, Infusion, or Powder, Ointment, Fomentation, or even the bruised fresh Root, applied outwardly, do all give surprizing Relief in the Piles, and other Diseases of that Place; and also in the Scab, Itch, cancerous, and malignant creeping Ulcers. The Root expels Worms. The Water cures the Redness of the Face. Tragus makes an Ointment, of the Juice of the Root and Plant, express'd in May, kept a whole Year in an unstopp'd Bottle; then made his Ointment of Half Juice, and Half Oil and Wax; boiled till the Juice was exhaled, then strained it, and kept it for Use. Sir Robert Sibbald gives us a Plaister for the same Intention, made of a Pound of Hog's-Lard, Leaves of Fig-wort, Hound's-tongue, white Dead Nettle, Fox-glove, of each equal Parts; cut them all [Page 101] small, and bo [...] in the Lard with a moderate Heat, till the Leaves are crisp; then strain them out, and put in more of the same Herbs fresh, boil and strain as before; repeat it a third Time, then weigh the Ointment, and take Half [...] Weight of Wax, and Rosin; Turpentine, two Ounces; Verdigrease, one Ounce; dissolve all, strain them through a Linnen Cloth, and keep it in a Pot, to be spread on Leather, when used. The Herb taken inwardly, or applied outwardly, dissolves coagulated Blood. An Ointment may be made of this, and Pile-wort, and Toad-flax, by a triple Docoction in Lard or Butter, and Bees-wax, and Turpentine. A little Sugar of Lead may be added to the strained Liquor, for the Piles. ^*

[Page 102]

109.

FIR-TREE ( Abies) though the dry and liquid Rosins of this Tree are much used in Physic, yet, not being of British Preparation, I shall pass them. Fir Tops are much used in Infusions in Diet Drinks, for the Scurvy, and Scorbutic, and Arthritic Pains; and in Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys, which it cleanses well.

110.

FLAX or LINT (Linum) the most wonderful and useful of all Herb [...]: With what Oratory do Pliny and Bauhinus extol its Uses? But I shall only [Page 103] consider some medical Effects of its Seed, which is Softening, Digesting, and Ripening, and of moderate Warmth. It is of great Use in Coughs, Cholics, Gripes, Pleurisies, and Consumptions; outwardly it eases Pain, smooths, softens, and ripens. The Oil being mostly used inwardly, it should be purified before it is taken; which is soonest done by mixing it with Spirit of Wine, and boiling both till the Spirit is exhaled; this carries off the Acidity of the Oil. Two Ounces of this Oil, drank in any suitable warm Liquor, is excellent in a Cholic, Pleurisy, or Iliac Passion; some of the Oil at the same Time being applied outwardly. But what is used inwardly, unpurified, should always be fresh drawn. Outwardly, it softens Hardness, loosens Stiffness, and Contraction of the Nerves, and mitigates racking Pains. The fresh Oil is a fine Remedy in Pleurisies; for it makes Breathing easier, and promotes Spitting. It is excellent in Spitting of Blood. It cures Cramps, and Convulsions; is good in Inflammations of the Lungs, Sides, or Throat; outwardly, it loosens bound up Parts, softens the hard, smooths the rough, and opens what was shut up. A Tea of the bruised Seed, drank, sweetened with Honey, is good in a tearing Cough, in the Stone and Gravel, Gripes, Cholic, Nephritic Pains, Inflammations of the Breasts or Sides, Stitches, &c. An Electuary of the Seed, made with Honey, and a little Pepper, drank daily, is good in a Cough. The bruised Seed, tie [...] up in a Rag, may be boiled in Ptisans for the Cholic, Gravel, Strangury, and Nephritic Pains. It may also be used in Clysters for these Disorders; and for sharp and inflammatory Diseases of the Guts and Bowels. Poultises and Ointments are made of it to ease Pain; loosen, ripen, or discuss, any Swellings or Hardness. Baths and Fumes are made of it for Hysterics. The Seed mixed [Page 104] with Nitre, or Salt and Fig-tree Ashes, eases Pain, and Hardness of the Muscles, and Tendons or Sinews. The Seed and Figs in a Poultise, ripen and digest. Mixed with wild Cucumber Root, it draws Splinters, Thorns, &c. out of the Flesh. Boiled in Wine, and applied to running fretting Sores, it prevents their spreading; mixed with Olibanum and Water, or Myrrh and Wine, it cures watering Eyes; mixed with Honey, Suet, or Wax, it discusses hard Kernels, or Swellings on the Neck, or under the Ears; and clears the Skin from Spots, or Blemishes. The Oil, beaten up with Rose Water, is good for Burns. The Oil or Seed is good for the Piles. A Tea of the bruised Seed is often used for a Hoarseness, a thin Rheum and Catarrh, in Contractions of the Belly, &c. That Flax is a violent Purgative, the Inhabitants of Sterling felt to their fatal Experience, in 1716; when, from Flax steeped in the Water that supplies the Town, there arose a raging mortal Dysentery, which greatly depopulated the Place, and occasioned the Report in the News, that the Plague was broken out there.

111.

MOUNTAIN, WILD, DWARF, or MILL-FLAX, (Linum Catharticum) the whole Herb bruised and infused all Night in Water, Small Beer, or white Wine, in hot Ashes, purges watery Humours violently. Its Decoction does the same. Country People use it much, and have often seen good Effects from it. Dr. Bowle says, that Powder of the dried Herb, taken with a little Cream of Tartar, and Anise-seed, purges mildly enough.

112.

FLIX-WEED. (Sophia Chyrurgorum) A Dram of the Seed powdered, or boiled, or steeped in Water, and drank, is a present safe Remedy for a Looseness. [Page 105] The Herb is the same. They are both good in a Bloody Flux; or in any other natural or unnatural excessive Loss of Blood. They are very proper in Wounds, or putrid and malignant Ulcers. The boiled Herb is used to expel Gravel, Sand, and small Stones. It is also good in Fractures and Dislocations. Its Decoction in Wine, drank, kills Worms in the Body.

FLIX-WEED. Grows no where in our Colonies, but in curious Botanick Gardens.

113.

FLEA-BANE ( Conyza) is by some reputed a Waster and Expeller of Stone and Gravel; a Vulnerary, and good in Bruises, Ruptures, inward Wounds, Pains of the Sides, and Difficulty of Breathing. Strewed in a Room, it drives away Flies and Fleas. Its Leaves rubbed on the Bite of Serpents help them. The Leaves and Flowers infused in Wine expel Menses and Birth. Infused in Vinegar they were used in making Urine by Drops, and in the Epilepsy, &c.

FLEA-BANE. One Species grows plentifully on the Salt Marshes.

114.

FLEA-WORT ( Psyllium) purges yellow Bile, and, being mucilaginous, it is thought proper in Bloody Fluxes and Excoriations of the Bowels. It is the only Purgative of a cooling Quality. Yet it is accused of Virulence. Hoffman doubts it is of a poisonous Nature; but Alpinus says, the Aegyptians use it in hot Fevers. It offends the Stomach, causes Fainting, and is not without Danger of killing, if too much used. The Mucilage of [...]his and Quince-seed, in Rose and Plantain Wate [...], of each one Ounce; the White of an Egg beaten to a Water, and Camphire five Grains; all mixed, and dropped into the Eye, is good in Inflammations, and hot Disorders of the Eyes. Waters of it and Purslain are good in Excoriations of the Palate, Uvula, and [Page 106] Tongue, from Heat. An Epithem of a Mucilage of the Seed made with Rose Water is good in a hot Pain of the Head, if applied to the Forehead. The Seeds, fried and taken, stop a hot bilious Looseness. The Mucilage of the Seed, with Rose Water and Sugar-candy, drank, is good in hot parching Fevers, and Inflammations; Hoarseness, and hot Disorders of the Lungs. The Mucilage in Plantain Water, and the Yolk of an Egg, is good in the Piles, and in Inflammations of any Part of the Body, and Pains from Heat; as in a Megrim, Head-ach, hot Imposthumes, Swellings, or Outbreakings on the Skin or Joints. And, applied with Oil of Roses and Vinegar, it was used in Childrens Ruptures, and Navel-starting, and heals chopped Nipples, or sore Breasts. Its Juice and Honey help running Ears, and hinder Worms breeding in them; mixed with Lard, it cleanses filthy hot Ulcers. The Herb, being very cold, should be used cautiously, that it do no Hurt.

FLEA-WORT. I had growing in my Garden, but 'tis now gone off. I never saw it grow wild.

115.

FENUGREEK-SEED ( Foenum graecum) is a great Softener, Digester, Ripener, Dicusser, and Easer of Pain; and either it, or its Mucilage, goes into most Poultises of those Intentions. It is often used in emollient Clysters; for it sheathes all Sharpness, smooths and heals the Bowels. Its Decoction is useful in several female Disorders. Its Mucilage cures Blood-shot Eyes. The Seed boiled in Mead 'till it is dissolved, then beaten up, and boiled again with Honey, so spread on a Cloth, and applied, presently eases the Sciatica, and all Pains of the Joints. The Seed is excellent in Diseases of the Eyes. Sweet Apples, boiled up to a Poultise in Fennel and Vervain Water; then put through a Hair Sieve, then add Mucilage of Fenugreek dissolved in Rose Water, [Page 107] with Camphire and prepared Tutty, and Rose Water enough to make an Epithem for Blood-shot Eyes. Sim. Pauli. Its Powder, with Smallage Juice, is good for cold Tumours in Womens Breasts. In Clysters it expels Wind powerfully, and eases Pain. Given to Horses with their Corn, is good for their Cough, Cold, Breath, and fattens them.

FENUGREEK. Grows wild no where in our Colonies.

116.

FOX-GLOVE, ( Digitalis) some strong Rusticks venture on a Decoction of the Leaves in Water, for a Vomit; it works upwards and downwards with great Violence; sometimes causes a Superpurgation, Fever, Phrenzy, or other dangerous Symptom; therefore should either be totally refrained, or used with Judgment and Caution. Yet Parkinson affirms that two Handfuls of it, with four Ounces of Polypody Root, boiled in Ale, and drank, cured the Falling Sickness in those that had it severely for twenty-six Years. Both Leaves and Flowers are good in the moist and running King's Evil, but not in the dry. But my Author would have found it alike successful in both Kinds, if, instead of his Ointment, and Praecipitates, he had taken the green fresh Leaves, cleaned, and spread them three or four on one another upon the Sore twice a Day; he would generally have found them to clean, draw, and heal, beyond all other Cleansers. Some make an Ointment of the Flowers, by stopping as many of them as they can into May Butter or Lard, and set them in the Sun the whole Summer; or bury them forty Days under Ground; thus they preserve the Flowers with the Ointment, and spread them on Linnen, and apply to the Tumour, which they ripen and discuss; or cleanse, fill up, and heal, the Ulcers. During that whole Time they purge every fifth or sixth Day, and drink constantly a Decoction of Herb Robert. [Page 108] Let the finer Part of the Ointment be laid on the inflamed Part of the Ulcer, and the coarser Part be spread on Rags not to be changed during the whole Time of the Cure. Some make a double or treble Decoction of the expressed Juice of the first Sprouts, or Buds of the Herb, in May Butter, 'till the Juice is wasted; this is preserved and used daily, and, though it make the Tumour larger at first, yet afterwards it will cleanse and heal it. It cleanses and cures other Sores, Wounds, and Ulcers. The powdered Leaf is a strong and safe Sternutatory. For the King's-evil, Take Hog's Lard half a Pound, Tobacco four Ounces, Rosin as much, black Soap, and Bees Wax, each six Ounces; Fox-glove, Dandelion, Pile-wort, Bay Salt, of each a Handful; boil the cut fresh Herbs in the Lard and Soap, then strain, and add the Bay Salt to the Liquor, boil it, put in the Wax, and lastly the Rosin, make an Ointment; spread a little of it on Leather, or Linnen, and lay upon the Sore once or twice a Day: It is good for Ulcers on any Part of the Body, except the Back. It would be more effectual, should the Sick daily take ten Grains of powdered green Lizards; or the following: Take calcined Sponge Stones (or Sponge) nine Drams, Sal Gem, six Drams, vitriolated Tartar, three Drams, mix them; Dose, two Scruples, twice a Day, for seven or nine Weeks. If the Evil is not ulcerated, take Pidgeons-dung two Ounces, Figs one Ounce, beat them together, and apply in a Poultise; it will ripen and break either this, or any other Imposthume, presently. ^*

This Species of Digitalis, grows only in curious Gardens with us in America.

[Page 109]

117.

FUMITORY ( Fumaria) its Juice drank from five to ten Ounces; its Decoction from eight to sixteen Ounces; its Powder from two to four Ounces, purge Bile and adust Humours. It purifies the Blood much, especially boiled in Whey; hence it is good in Diseases produced by these Humours, as Leprosy, Scab, Itch, Ringworms, &c. It is very Diuretic, and a little Sudorific, therefore, in the Plague, Treacle was given in its Water. It opens [Page 110] Obstructions of the Liver, and sends off the Jaundice by Urine; for which Purpose its Conserve is of special Service after Purging. Its Juice or Essence, taken daily in Whey, is good in Melancholy. Its Juice or Water takes off Spots of the Eyes. I have often been astonished at its Success, in Diseases from Heat and Sharpness of the Blood in some; as in Hectics, Pleurisies, Peripneumonies, &c. When the Bark, and testaceous Powders, exasperated the Diseases, and hastened the Exit of others. The Herb is bitter and cooling, yields much volatile, concrete, fixed lixivial Salt, and a very thick Oil; much Boiling spoils and weakens both it, Ground-ivy, and Liver-wort. It is a Specific in Diseases of the Skin, Melancholy, and Cachexy. It is good in a Dropsy. The Root cleanses and dries up Ulcers in the Mouth. Its Syrup is good in Winter. An Ointnment made of the Juices of it, Dock, and Elecampane Roots, with Lard, is good for Diseases of the Skin. Dioscorides says, that its Juice, with Gum Arabic, rubbed on the Eye brows, after the long Hairs are pulled out, hinders their growing again. It is a Specific in Diseases from a mucilaginous, or acid State of the Blood. But, for Melancholy, a Decoction of great wild Basil in Wine, drank, Morning, Noon, and Night, is a Specific. In Madness, a Dram of powdered white Briony Root, taken often in a Draught of Milk, with a suitable Regimen, is also a Specific; or its Infusion in white Wine, with Syrup of Violets; or, after Evacuations, nine Leaves of Lavender, cut, and given in Water; or a Decoction of Lavender, repeated thrice a Day, and sweat freely; or four Ounces of Decoction of St. John's-Wort, drank thrice a Day; or a Tincture of its Flowers; or a Decoction of Pimpernel Leaves and Flowers; Dose four Ounces twice a Day.—Madness from the [Page 111] Bite of a mad Dog, to prevent or cure, a Poultise of Rue and Onions, beaten up with Honey, and applied, is advised by Morrison; or a Powder or Decoction of the Flowers of lesser Centaury, is commended as a Specific by Ray: Or two Drams of the powdered Seeds of Ladies Thistle, drank in Wine, and Sweat after it, Lindanus. Sennertus extols the Mad-wort, or Moon-wort, of Dioscorides; used any how. Baricel [...]us says, the Root of the Dog Rose Bush is a certain Remedy. And Maroldus extols Herb Burnet given any how, for some Days. Others advise a beaten-up Poultise of Sage, Salt, and Vinegar, applied to the Place, and often renewed.—For the Bite of Serpents, besides many other Things, Boyle commends Horehound outwardly, and its Syrup taken inwardly. Morrison, a Decoction of Fennel Seed, drank; or Juice of Goats Rue, drank, and the Herb applied in a Poultise. Garlick taken inwardly, and applied outwardly.

118.

GARDEN-CRESSES (Nasturtium hortense) Herb and Seed are acrid, hot, and dry; they attenuate, open, and cleanse; are good in Swellings of the Spleen, expel Menses and Foetus, if the Infusion or Decoction is drank. The Decoction, Juice, or Syrup of Marigold Flowers, are Specifics. They cut thin, and bring up thick Phlegm from the Lungs; they are good in the Scurvy; and the Seed, given in Drink, expels the Measles. They are used outwardly to purge the Head from Phlegm, to cause Sneezing, and ripen hard Swellings. The Herb, bruised and fried in Hog's-Lard, cures foul Scurfs or Scabs on the Head, or other Parts of the Body; it brings off the thickest Scurfs in twenty-four Hours, and if the Head be daily rubbed with Pissilaeum Indicum, it works a compleat and easy Cure. It is as [Page 112] powerful an Antiscorbutic as Scurvy Grass, or Water Cresses; therefore Sallads, Diet Drinks, and Juices of it, are much in Request in the Spring. In comatous and lethargic Fits, there is nothing better than this, boiled and eaten in Sallads. The Herb, or Juice; cleanse the Reins or Bladder, and provoke Venery. It heals inward Wounds; and, eaten with Oil, helps a Cough, Shortness of Breath, and Pains of the Breasts and Sides. Chew'd in the Mouth, it eases the Tooth-ach. The bruised Herb rubbed or laid on, takes Spots out of the Skin. A Poultise of it is good in a Sciatica. It draws Bones, Splinters, and Thorns, out of the Flesh; and checks the Corrosion of creeping Ulcers. Boiled in Vinegar, and laid to the Throat and Neck, it is good in the King's Evil; boiled in Hog's-Lard, and applied, it quickly ripens and breaks Plague Sores.

119.

WATER-CRESSES in the Spring are also used in Sallads, Broth, Juice, Diet Drinks, or eaten alone to purify the Blood, as a Specific against the Scurvy; and to expel Urine and Menses. They are thought useful in the Stone and Dropsy. Their Juice strained, and drank, soon breaks inward Imposthumes. Snuffed up the Nose, is good against a Polypus. In other Respects they are the same as Garden Cresses.

120.

GARLICK (Allium) taken inwardly in Substance, or Infusion, heats the Body, thins thick and gross Humours, cuts, digests, and consumes the clammy. It opens Obstructions, is an Antidote to cold Poisons, and Bites of venomous Beasts. It is good in Stuffings of the Lungs, old Coughs, Roughness of the Throat, and Hoarseness. It provokes Urine; [Page 113] boiled in Milk, it kills Worms; it warms the Stomach, and preserves from infectious and pestilential Diseases. Sitting over a Steam of its Decoction, brings down the Menses, and Secondine. Beaten up with Honey, and anointed, it cures Morphew, Tetters, Ringworms, Scald Heads, Scurf, and Dandriff. Applied with Fig-Leaves, and Cummin Seeds, it cures the Bite of a Shrew. Boiled in Milk or Broth, it is good in a flatulent or nephritic Cholic. Boiled in Honey and Water, it provokes Urine and Sweat powerfully. Boiled in Milk, it is good in a Catarrh or Cough. The Roots stamped, and laid to the Soles of the Feet, Sides, Wrists, Ulcers, or Wounds, may, in a few Hours after, be smell'd in the Breath. Some say that its Juice, drank, is Poison, but later Observations contradict it. But to bilious, or sanguine Persons, or such as have sharp Juices, it is certainly hurtful in all Shapes; for, besides its intolerable Smell, it raises Thirst, Pains of the Head, and all the Instruments of the Senses. But it is well adapted to cold, pituitous, phlegmatic, or aged People; whose Juices are either very watery, and their Circulation slow; or very thick, gross, or phlegmy. I have often ordered the following Diet Drink, with good Success, to cachectic, aged, phlegmatic, asthmatic, or scorbutic Constitutions, with swell'd Feet, Legs, and sometimes Thighs; or in a beginning Anasarca or Leucophlegmatia. Take fresh Roots of Garlick, Horse-Radish, Elecampane, Knee-holly, of each two, three, or four Ounces; Tops of Broom, Scurvy-Grass, Wormwood, wild Sage, Camomile Flowers, of each a Handful; Juniper Berries, an Ounce and an Half; fresh inner Bark of Elder, four Ounces; bruise the Roots and Berries, cut the Herbs, infuse all in five or six Quarts of Table Beer, or in a Gallon of white Wine; keep it close some Days, [Page 114] then bottle it off; Dose, from a Fourth to Half a Pint, thrice a Day. It may be renewed till the Symptoms vanish, which they mostly do pretty soon. Seafaring Men use Garlick with Success, for Disorders occasioned by salt and stinking Waters, and unwholesome or uncommon Foods; it is a good Stomachic to them. It is also of Benefit in a Hoarseness. It makes the Skin red, and sometimes blisters it. It is good to recover such as are almost lost by Cold or Frost. Its middle Stalk quickly cures Corns, if stamped, or bruised, and laid on. The roasted Root, put into the Ears, cures a beginning Deafness. A Poultise of Garlick, Bay, and Juniper Berries, and Barley-Meal, laid to the Sharebone, is very Diuretic. The Root is also good in the Tooth-ach. ^*

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121.

GERMANDER (Chamaedrys) consists of fine and subtil Parts; it provokes Urine and Sweat powerfully; it is therefore proper in Fevers, Scurvy, [Page 116] Jaundice, coagulated Blood; ^* but especially in Pains of the Nerves and Joints, and Suppression of Urine. Mathiolus adds, that it is good in the Plague, Worms, and cold Diseases of the Head. It is used outwardly to creeping Ulcers, raging Pain of the Piles, Ears infested with Worms, Scab, and Itch. Its inward Use dries Catarrhs. Its distill'd Water, or Decoction in Wine, has been serviceable in the Gout; and is little inferior to wild Betony. Its Decoction is celebrated for Stoppage of the Menses: It is proper to be added to Decoctions against other Obstructions. Ray says, about Cambridge it was called the English Treacle; being found an Antidote against Poison. He says, one, noted for curing the King's Evil, gave a Decoction of the Herb in white Wine, from a Quart to a Pint; Dose, two Spoonfuls, Evening and Morning, for a Month. Then he gave Infusion in four Pints of white Wine, of Rosemary and Hart's-tongue, of each a Handful, cut and infused twenty-four Hours; Dose, eight Spoonfuls, twice a Day; and also fomented the Parts affected, with their Decoction. The Aegyptians admire its Powder for Intermittents; and Country People have cured Quartans with its Powder, taken some Days in Broth: Sim. Pauli says, a Woman, long racked with a violent Pain in the Uterus, was cured by a Decoction of this Herb in Chicken Broth; it loosened her Belly, and caused a large Discharge of Bile and Phlegm, upon which she recovered. The Leaves of the common small Germander, are bitter, aromatic, [Page 117] and very opening. It is a Febrifuge, Stomachic, and Diaphoretic. A Handful of Leaves infused all Night in white Wine, with Half a Dram of vegetable Salt, and drank fasting, is good in the Green Sickness. A Dram of the Extract of the Leaves and Bark, and one or two Drops of the Oil of Cinnamon, taken every Morning, with two or three Cups of Germander Tea, is good for the Gout and Sciatica. Dioscorides says, the Powder with Honey, is good in a Cough, for a hard Spleen, and for such as can hardly make their Water; and in the Beginning of a Dropsy. Its Juice, with Honey, cleanses foul Ulcers. The Herb is good for a Cramp, and Stitches in the Sides; in obstinate Head-achs, Melancholy, Lowness of Spirits; a Spoonful of its Powder, taken every Morning in a raw Egg, for some Months together, cures the Falling Sickness. The People near the Alps, use Mountain Germander, to check all Kinds of Belly Fluxes, Vomitings, Menses, Fluor albus, Haemorrhages, &c. A Stove of its Decoction, eases Hysteric Fits, and stops the Whites. Its Oil cures Dimness of Sight, and Moistness of the Eyes.

122.

GERMANDER ( Water) or SCORDIUM, warms and dries, cleanses and attenuates, resists Putrefaction, is an Antidote to Poison, and pestilential Diseases, it is a Sudorific; good against the Plague, malignant Fevers and Distempers; prevalent in Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen; good for Lungs stuffed with much Phlegm, or loaded with purulent Matter. Applied outwardly, it cleanses Wounds and Ulcers, and eases gouty Pains. Some use it to bring down the Menses. Its Powder or Juice, kill Worms in the Belly. But it is most eminent for expelling Poison, preventing or curing the [Page 118] Plague, ^* or other epidemic, contagious Diseases. Many running and pestilential Buboes, and malignant Ulcers, have been cured by the Use of its Powder only; and it has opened many that were not broken. Its Decoction in Wine is good against the Bites of all venomous Beasts, Serpents, and Insects; and against the gnawing Pains of the Stomach or Sides, from Cold or Obstructions; and for the Bloody Flux. In an Electuary with Cresses, Rosin, and Honey, it is excellent for an old Cough, to promote Spitting; gives Relief in Cramps, and [Page 119] Ruptures. A Decoction of the dried Leaves, and Tormentil Root, is good in the Bloody Flux. A Tea of this Herb, drank, restores the Appetite, promotes Perspiration, prevents the Gout, and kills Worms in the Stomach or Bowels. The Conserve is good for them who spit purulent Matter, even though not yet come to a Consistence. Half an Ounce of its Extract, or an Ounce of its Conserve, cause a plentiful Sweat. It being a cleansing, vulnerary Plant, a Fomentation, Poultise or Lotion of it, Wormwood and lesser Centaury, is good in a threatened, or beginning Mortification. The bruised Leaf, bound or laid upon any Wound, heals it soon and safely. A Poultise of it checks the Growth of Wens, and other Excrescences.

123.

GITH or FENNEL. ( Nigella) Its Mucilage is very good to attenuate, and helps to expectorate thick Phlegm, to increase Milk, or expel Urine, and Menses. But its chief Use is in Quotidians and Quartans. It is inwardly useful for Pains of the Head, drying up Catarrhs, &c. By putting up the Nose, and chewing it in the Mouth, it resists Haemorrhages. Sim. Pauli, in Catarrhs and Coryza's, advises it rather fried than raw. For Loss of Smell, Galen orders Powder of the Roman Gith, beaten up in a Mortar with old Oil, and put up the Nose, with the Head down, and the Mouth full of Water.

124.

GLADDON (Spatula foetida) or GLADWIN (stinking) is one of the Iris Tribe. The dried Root powdered is good in Hysterics, Shortness of Breath, and Hypo, says Dr. Bowle. The Root used inwardly, and applied outwardly in a Poultise, is of great Service in the [Page 120] King's-evil, says Dr. Needham. In a Looseness, it is used the same as toasted Rhubarb, and with the like Success; for, tho' it purges as the rest of the Flower-de-luces do, yet it does so mildly, and binds after. It is taken in Infusion or Decoction. The Juice snuffed up the Nose provokes Sneezing, and a great Discharge of Phlegm; used in a Pessary it brings down the Menses, and endangers Abortion. Drank in a little sweet Wine, it is good in Diseases of the Lungs, and Cough, from thick Phlegm, and other gross Humours. A Poultise of the bruised Roots, draws out of the Flesh Thorns, Pricks, Splinters, &c. without much Pain.

125.

GLASS-WORTS ( Kali) are of a cleansing Nature without Heating; their Powder, but especially their Juice, taken in Drink, purges phlegmatic, watery, and melancholy Humours; they are Specifics in a Dropsy, and expel the dead Child. They open Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, and cure their Hardness. their Powder is sometimes used to consume fungous Flesh in foul Ulcers. Their Ashes are a Caustic, and must be cautiously handled, or applied to the Skin. A Soap of their Ashes, applied to the Soles of the Feet, like a Plaister, and tied on, quickly brings again the Speech, when it has been casually lost, if recoverable. The Powder, or its Solution, put into Horses Eyes, takes off Films or Webs. Half a Dram of their Juice, taken thrice a Week, is a great Secret in Dropsies.

126.

GOATS-RUE ( Galega) Dr. Herman says, its Juice cares the Epilepsy. Being a famous Alexipharmac, and Sudorific, it is reputed a great Antidote against the Plague, Poison, and pestilential Diseases. It expels [Page 121] Small Pox, Measles, and other Eruptions. A Spoonful of its Juice, cures the Bite of Serpents, and kills Worms, whether it be drank, or applied to the Navel. For its Effects, see the Honourable Mr. Boyle, on the Wholesomeness, &c. of the Air.

127.

GOATS BEARD (Tragopogon) Roots dressed like Parships, and eaten, are pleasanter; either boiled or cold, or eaten raw as a Sallad, they are grateful to the Stomach; strengthen and nourish the Thin, Lean, and Consumptive, or the Weak after long Sickness. Tragus says, the distill'd Water gives wonderful Relief, in inward Imposthumes, Pleurisy, Stitches, or Pains of the Sides. It is good for the Heart-burn, dejected Appetite, Disorders of the Breast and Liver; expels Sand, Gravel, and Stone. The Purple are more bitter, astringent, and detersive, therefore medicinal, and the rest more nutritive.

128.

GOLDEN-ROD (Virga Aurea) is a celebrated Vulnerary, whether used inwardly or outwardly, preferred even to Saracens Consound itself. In outward Wounds it brings off their ichorous or other Matter by Urine; as most vulnerary Potions are Diuretics, which makes them much preferable to astringent Earth or Minerals. Outwardly, it is an extraordinary Drier and C [...]eanser. Two Drams of the Powder, taken every Morning in Wine, is famous in the Stone. Its Decoction is good in all Obstructions of the Viscera, and Inclinings to a Dropsy. It is also good in all Fluxes of the Belly, and internal Haemorrhages. It cures Wounds and old Ulcers. It heals Sores in the Mouth, Throat, and privy Parts.

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129.

GOOSE-BERRIES (Grossularia) besides their Kitchen Uses, they are boiled and eaten with Broth, by feverish People, especially the hot and bilious. They and Hedge Crabs, are good in the Loathings of breeding Women; they rouse the Appetite, and are proper in Loosenesses, Iliac Passion, Haemorrhages, and Whites, or applied to Inflammations. The unripe only are used in Physick and Cookery. The ripe are greedily eaten by Children, the poor and gravid Women, nor do many rich People despise them; for they are inoffensive and friendly to the Stomach. Bauhinus says, he never heard of one that received the very least Harm from eating them. The unripe should be eaten very sparingly, or not at all; for they may easily occasion great Mischiefs to cold flatulent Stomachs, by causing the Cholic, Gripes, or, by their acid Juice, corroding the nervous Coats of the Guts.

130.

GOOSE-GRASS, or CLEAVERS (Aparine) the Juice of Stalk, Leaf, and Seeds, drank, is good against Biting of Serpents; or dropped into the Ear, cures its Pain. The Herb, beaten with Lard, and applied, discusses scrophulous Swellings; for which it is one of the Specifics. Pliny says, it is good to stop Blood. The distilled Water, or Herb, boiled in white Wine, is excellent for Sand, Stone, and Gravel. The Herb, and a Calf's-spleen, dried in an Oven, and powdered, is a Secret against Swellings of the Spleen, and Hypochondriac Flatusses; for which, and Diseases of the Breast, the Water was formerly used. The distilled Water, or Decoction, is good in a Jaundice, and Bloody-Fluxes. The Juice laid to the Wound, stops its Bleeding, closes [Page 123] up its Lips, and heals it. The Powder has the same Virtue, and also cures old Ulcers.

131.

GROMWELL. ( Lithospermum) Its Seed cleanses the Kidneys, provokes Urine, wastes and expels Stone, Sand, Gravel, or Mucilage. Two Drams of it, taken in Breast Milk, is good in hard Labour. It is powerful in a Strangury. The Juice or Decoction of the Herb may be used, when the Seed cannot be got.

132.

GROUND-IVY (Hedera terrestris) as Horehound is fit for aged and phlegmatic Persons, and hurtful to the young, bilious, and sanguine; so, this being the Reverse, is excellently adapted to the last, being a noble Vulnerary, both outwardly and inwardly. It provokes Urine and the Menses; attenuates, and cuts Phlegm, is good in the Jaundice, and in Clysters eases the Cholic. It relieves in great and obstinate Coughs, and Consumptions. ^* [Page 124] Laid to the Belly it appeases after Pains. Its Juice, snuffed up the Nose, gives Relief in the most obstinate Head-achs. Infused in the Sun, in Oil, is a noble Remedy for the Cholic, if both drank and [Page 125] injected. It fines muddy Ale wonderfully. Bruised and given to Horses in their Corn, it kills Botworms. It is used for the Stone. Its Tea is most agreeable, and beneficial in Fevers, Inflammations, and great Thirst. A Decoction of it with Fumitory, and Liver-wort, cures Scabbiness in Children, and [Page 126] young People, when Mercurials, and Sulphurines, profit little with Safety. The same Decoction, with Agrimony, sweetened and drank, is excellent in Inflammations of the Lungs, Sides, or Breasts. It is a quick, sharp, and bitter Herb. It is opening, cleansing, and rarefying; of singular Efficacy for all inward Wounds, ulcerated Lungs, &c. either by itself, or with Agrimony, Hart's-tongue, Golden-Rod, Horse-tail, Burnet, &c. Or on windy, choleric, hot Pains of the Stomach, Spleen, or Belly, its strong Decoction drank with its Powder in it, gives Ease in a few Hours, like a Charm. Drank in the Gout, Rheumatism, or Sciatica, especially by young People, it is very useful. Its Decoction used in a Gargle, with Honey and Alum. is good for Sores in the Throat, or privy Parts, washed with it. Bound on, it speedily heals green Wounds. The Juice with Honey, and Verdigrease, [Page 127] cleanses filthy Fistula's, or hollow Ulcers, and stops their Spreading. The clarified Juice of this, Celandine, and Field Daisies, with a little Sugar dropped into the Eyes, cures their Pain, Redness, and Watering; takes off the Pain, Web, Films, or Spots growing on them; the same it does to the Eyes of Beasts. The Juice dropped into the Ears helps their Noise, and restores languishing, or decayed Hearing. In Consumptions, from inward or outward Losses of Blood, Juices of this and Nettles, with expressed Oil of Linseed, Powder of Peruvian Bark, and Henbane Seed mixed, is a Secret. I have seen general Rashes on young People, attended with a strong Fever, taken off in twenty-four Hours, by drinking plentifully a Decoction of this Herb; which if treated with the testaceous Powders, Nitre, and the like Julaps, would have taken a much longer Time, and might have been of worse Consequence; but the Neglect, or Contempt of our simple Herbs, will still be found a greater Loss to the Sick. Its Powder is a noble Medicine in Coughs, and Tubercles of the Lungs. Its Juice, drank for Bloody Fluxes, is good. The dried Leaves infused in Brandy, filtered and drank, is good in Hypo, and Hysterics. The same is a Dram of the powdered Catkins of Walnuts, drank with a Drop or two of Oil of Amber; or a Spoonful or two of a double Infusion of white Lilly Flowers, and Spanish Wine, both of them drank every Morning, and in the Fit; or a Conserve of Powder of Hart's-tongue in Ale or Posset Drink; or a sweetened Decoction of Turnips, often drank; or the powdered Root of Gladwin is excellent; or powdered Seed of Wild Parsnip, two Drams in warm white Wine; or Cichory Broth; or a Conserve of Garden Arrach; or an Infusion of Wormwood in Water drank fasting, and before Supper.

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133.

GROUND-PINE ( Chamaepitys) strengthens all the Nerves; it is inciding, attenuating, opening, and expels the Menses, Birth, and After-birth, but has its greatest Reputation in the Gout, and Joint Pains, either infused or boiled in Wine, given in Powder, or made into Pills with Venice Turpentine; outwardly it discusses Tumours and Hardnesses; cleanses and heals Wounds and Ulcers. Its Decoction is good against the Strangury, or inward Pains from Disorders of the urinary Passages, and in Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen. It cleanses gross impure Blood, expels the coagulated, and mildly opens the Body. But gravid Women have no Business with it till their nine Months are elapsed. Pills of i [...] and Hermodacts, with Turpentine, are good in a Dropsy, as well as in Joint Pains, if continued for some Time; and for the Jaundice and Gripes, and for Diseases of the Brain, from cold and phlegmatic Humours. The Herb is good against the Poison of Night-shade, or other Plants; or of Scorpions or other venomous Creatures; or in the Beginning of a cold Cough it easily procures Sweat, says Pliny. A Diet Drink of it in Beer or Wine, or a Conserve, answers the Uses above. The Herb, or its Decoction, softens Womens hard Breasts, or other Tumours. The Juice with Honey cleanses and heals putrid, malignant, and virulent Ulcers. Mathiolus gives a tedious Pill of it for the Palsy. For an Empyema, a Decoction or Syrup of its Juice is good; or a Decoction of red Cabbage, sweetened with Sugar, and drank daily.

134.

GROUNDSEL ( Senecio) is a despised Plant, but Sim. Pauli is liberal in its Praises. He says it is a common Herb, but exceeded by none in the Cure of fresh Inflammations, being cooling and digesting. [Page 129] A Poultise of it boiled in Wine or Water, and applied, relieves the Pain of the Piles, and inflamed Breasts, and Testicles. ^* In these Diseases he never found a more immediate and generous Remedy, than a Poultise of this and Althaea Tops, boiled in Milk, and applied. Nor is it less successful when the Parts are inflamed and swell'd, after hard Labour. It is also good for the Staggers, and Botworms, those fatal Enemies to Horses. Its Juice or Decoction is a strong Vomit. Pliny says, drank in Wine, it is good in the Jaundice, and Falling Sickness, in Pains of the Bladder, Stoppage of Water, and to expel Sand and Gravel; its inward Use is very rare, for the Operation is severe, and the Dose uncertain. A Poultise of it, with a little Salt, is said to dissolve Kernels and Knots, in any Part of the Body. The Leaves and Flowers, with Frankincense, is a good Vulnerary; its distilled Water was used for Rheums and Inflammations of the Eyes; but no such insipid, muddy Stuff, should be depended on. The Dose of the Juice is from one to two Ounces; it vomits, kills Worms, and eases the Cholic.

GROUNDSEL. This Species grows no where wild in these Provinces, but we have a large Species, as tall as a Man, grows plentifully in new cleared Ground, whose Down blows all about in the Fall.

135.

HARES-EARS ( Bupleurum) The stiff-leaved Sort is immoderately hot and dry; it is reckoned a [Page 130] Wound Herb, taking the Seed or Root, in Wine; or the Decoction, in Wine, drank. The Leaves were used for the Biting of venomous Beasts, bathing the Part wounded with them. It provokes Urine, and brings down the Menses. They, with other Wound Herbs, heal inward or outward Wounds; whether fresh Wounds, or old cancerous Sores and Ulcers. Their Seed, drank, is good against the Biting of Serpents. A Hare's-Ear, with a very narrow Leaf, Leaves and Seed, are bitter, warm, dry, and vulnerary, good in green Wounds, and for the Falling-down and Swelling of the Guts, especially of the Navel; for swell'd Joints, and scrophulous Tumours, whether used inwardly, or applied outwardly. Its Virtue consists in healing up, and strengthening the Parts. A Decoction of the Herb in Wine, or its Powder, is given in Ruptures, or inward Bruises from Falls; but it is chiefly commended for Childrens Ruptures, used inwardly and outwardly. Used the same Way, it dissolves King's-evil Swellings. Schwenckfeldt extols it in Fractures, Ruptures, and Erysipela's. Sim. Pauli cured a Navel Rupture, with Through-wax, a Handful; Mouse-car, Rupture-wort, Plantain, Moss, and our Acacia, of each Half a Handful; all boiled in Wine, and applied to the Part affected.

HARES-EARS. I have not observed it in any of our Provinces.

136.

HARES-FOOT. ( Lagopus) All its Parts, but especially the spiked Heads, are drying and binding; drank in Wine, or Water, they stay Fluxes of the Belly; or bound on the Sharebone in a Poultise, it takes away the Inflammation of the Belly, and its Pains. The powdered Head and Seed, taken in red Wine, stop choleric Belchings of the Stomach, or Pains. A Decoction of the Herb with Mallows, in Wine, is good for Pains of the Bladder, Heat of Urine, and its Scalding. The Seed taken, helps [Page 131] Spitting of Blood. The Ashes of the burnt Heads applied, stop immoderate Bleedings of the Piles or Anus; yea, if the Leaf is only rubbed on them. It is so powerfully binding and drying, that it wonderfully stops the Running of the Reins. A Decoction of Soap-wort, drank, is also good in a Gonorrhoea; and is good in all well cleansed, foul, hollow Ulcers, and to heal fresh Ruptures.

137.

HARTS-TONGUE ( Lingua Cervina) is used in the Rickets, for Liver-growing, Swelling of the Spleen, Fluxes of the Belly, and Spitting of Blood. Outwardly, it cleanses Wounds and Ulcers. Its Powder is good in Hysterics, Palpitation, convulsive Motions, taken in Small Beer, or Posset Drink; or its Decoction in Water, or Infusion in Wine. It is good in the Heat of Liver and Stomach, and in a Gargle to stop Bleeding of the Gums, and cure the Falling down of the Uvula. I have often used it with Success in Consumptions, and other Diseases of the Breast, with other Vulneraries. Its Powder, made into Pills, with Balsam of Gilead, Dose a Scruple, thrice a Day, is a Secret in Spitting of Blood.

We have none of this Species of Harts-tongue in our Provinces, but we have a smaller Species growing o [...] cold North Sides of Rocks, very scarce.

138.

HAWK-WEED (Hieracium) is cooling, drying, and binding, good for Heat of the Stomach, and Inflammations. The Juice with Wine, helps Digestion, expels Wind, and Crudities of the Stomach; it is useful in Difficulty in making Water. A Scruple of the dried Juice, with Wine and Vinegar, is good in a Dropsy. The Decoction, with Honey, digests Phlegm in the Lungs, and with Hyssop, is good in a Cough. Boiled in Wine, with wild Succory, it is good in a flatulent Cholic, Melancholy, and a hard Spleen. It softly invites Sleep, checks [Page 132] Venery, and venereal Dreams, cleanses the Stomach, increases Blood, and eases Disorders of the Reins and Bladder. Outwardly, it is good for Womens Milk. It helps Diseases of the Eyes. It is used for creeping Ulcers. Its distilled Water is a fine Wash for the Face:

139.

HAW-THORN ( Spina alba) Berries or Seeds, drank in Wine, are said to be good for the Stone, and Dropsy. The Flowers infused three Days in Wine, and distilled, the Water is good in a Pleurisy, and inward Pains, and stays Fluxes. Their Decoction in Wine, does the same. The Water of the Flowers is cooling, and Sponges, wet in it warm, and applied, draw out of the Flesh Thorns, Nails, &c.

140.

HAZLE-TREE (Corylus) the Nut Kernels, eaten unpeel'd, give a Cough, Shortness of Breath, and Want of Appetite. If the Nuts are eaten old, they cause a Head-ach, and Flatulency at the Stomach, except they are parched before the Fire, which takes off the Rancidness of their Oil. The parched Kernels, made into an Electuary, or their express'd Oil, with Mead, is good in old Coughs. The parched Kernels, with a little Pepper, digest distilling Rheum. Two Drams of dried Flusks and Shells, powdered and drank in Wine, cure a Flux, and stop the Menses. The Powder of the red Skins, which cover the Kernel, is more effectual. A Gargle of its inner Bark, or of the Barberry-tree, is good in a Quinsey.

141.

HEATH or HEATHER (Erica) the Juice or distill'd Water of the Flowers, take off Redness, and Pain of the Eyes. Tragus gave them in the Cholic. [Page 133] Steams and Bathes of the Flowers, are reputed proper in gouty and paralitic Disorders. Mathiolus says, a Decoction of its Tops, drank daily, for thirty Days together, three Hours before Meat, wastes the Stone in the Bladder insensibly; Dose five Ounces. He says, it will do it more effectually, if, after that Time, the Sick sit several Times on boiled Heath, in a Bathe of its Decoction. By this Means, he says, he had seen some cured. Clusius says, that Rondeletius effectually cured many inveterate Herpes, which covered the whole Face, with an Oil made of the Flowers. The Scots Highlanders use it for a Bed to lie on; they lay the Roots to the Ground, and the Tops up, which makes it as soft as a Feather Bed, and restores weary Limbs to their full Vigour; such as lie down on it weary and faint, rise up next Morning, light, n [...]ble, and chearful. The Oil made of its Flowers, is good for the Shingles; a Wash of its Decoction, or of white Lilly Roots, in Water or Wine, cures a red Face.

HEATH. I never observed this Species mentioned here, in any of our Provinc [...]s; there is one Species grows near the Sea.

142.

HELLEBORE (white) (Helleborus albus) only the Root is in Use; it purges upwards and downwards, with such Violence, that it is now rarely used, though it was the Specific of the Antients in Madness; we now use black Hellebore in its Room. Tragus says, that the white, infused twenty-four Hours in Wine, or Oxymel, then taken out and dried, may be given in Powder to Half a Dram, to mad or melancholy People. Gesner says, that a Syrup of the Root, boiled in Vinegar, and made up with Honey, is a safe Medicine, and he often found its wonderful Effects; especially in phlegmatic Diseases of the Breast and Head, as Asthma, Epilepsy, &c. for it loosens the Belly without any Trouble; [Page 134] is diuretic, and even opens the Passages of the Skin itself. Hoffman says, that, in the Use of Hellebore, we must consider, first, if the Disease be very obstinate; secondly, whether the Patients have Strength to bear its Operation; for old People, Children, Women with Child, delicate, tender, and weak Persons, cannot; thirdly, that both Patient and Hellebore be duly prepared; it is not to be taken fasting, or on an empty Stomach, but after Meat, and the Root prepared as above. It expels much vicious, slimy, corrupt Humour. It brings down the Menses, kills the Foetus, and causes Abortion. The Root prepared as above, or boiled in fat Broth, and given, is good in the Falling Sickness, Leprosy, Scab, Quartan Agues, Dropsy, old Cough, Sciatica, Cramp, Pains of Joints, and Sinews, Pain and Swimming of the Head. Parkinson says, it is best prepared by Infusion in Juice of Quinces, or put in a hollow Quince, and either baked in the Oven, or roasted under the Embers, and Half a Scruple of it given at a Time: Thus Mathiolus used it, and, if its Use threatened Danger of Suffocation, Juice and Syrup of Quince were the Antidote to it▪ Dioscorides used it with other Things, to help Dimness of Sight. The Juice dropp'd into the Ears, cures their Singing and Noise. Its Decoction, to wash the Head, kills Lice, and cures the running Scab, or Sores on it, if mixed with Flower, and a little Honey and Butter. Its Decoction in Milk, set where Flies and Gnats swarm, kills all that touch it; it is fatal to Poultry that drink it. Made up in Balls, with Honey, and put into Mole-holes, it quickly destroys them, or other small Vermin. The powdered Root alone, or with Marjoram, snuffed up the Nose, provokes violent Sneezing, and cleanses the Head. A Gargle of its Decoction, in Vinegar, eases the Tooth-ach; and washing with it heals Itch and [Page 135] Scab on the Hands, and cleanses Sores and Ulcers on the Legs, or other Parts. The Spaniards dip and poison their Arrows, wherewith they kill wild Beasts, in the fermented Juice of this Root. It kills all Animals instantly, but, being drank, it hurts not. Its only Antidote is Quince. The Ancients prepared the Root for Use, by either giving it with a triple Quantity of Radish, or the Radish was prick'd full of this Root, and left twenty-four Hours sticking in it; then they took out, and threw away the Prickles, and used the Radish; or they infused the Radish prick'd full of it in Oxymel, and then used the Oxymel; o [...] they prick'd the Radish full of it, and let it lie all Night; next Day they pulled out and threw away the Prickles, and infused the Radish in Oxymel, and used the Liquor. It is certainly a noble Medicine in many of the above Diseases, if rightly prepared, and cautiously given. Such severe Medicines, being neglected by Physicians, fall into the Hands of Empirics, who will be at Pains to prepare them, and furnish them with some successful Nostrums, beyond the regular Practice; some Instances whereof I have seen. Though this Root is not a Native of Britain, yet it is now planted and thrives well in several Gardens, and perhaps being naturalized, will prove of a milder Nature. Several of the lesser wild Sorts are Natives, as our Lady's- Slipper (Helleborine) one with a white Flower, another with a greenish white Flower, &c.

143.

HELLEBORE (black) (Helleborus niger) the Bark of the Root Fibres, is the only Part used. The Infusion, Decoction, or Powder, powerfully purge melancholy Humours; hence its Usefulness in Melancholy, Madness, Hypo, Cancer, Swimming of the Head, Falling Sickness, Apoplexy, Quartans, and [Page 136] Elephantiasis; but it must be given in small Doses, as from ten to twenty Grains, and to strong Bodies. It is corrected by Cinnamon, Anise, and Fennel. It promotes the Menses much, in sanguine Constitutions, where Steel, and its Preparations are unsafe. It is better used as an Alterative, than an Evacuant. Dr. Po ordered an Infusion of wild white Hellebore in Vinegar, all Night, to be strain'd and given to mad People, and repeated. For Redness, Wrinkles, and Pimples on the Face, he ordered this Liniment, which cured them: Take Powder of both Hellebores, of each a Dram; Litharge a Dram and an Half, Salt-petre, Sulphur Vive, of each two Drams; Meal of Lupins, three Drams; Quicksilver, killed in Lemon-juice, three Drams; Oil of Olive, an Ounce and an Half; Oil of Tartar, Half an Ounce; Hen's-grease, an Ounce and an Half; two Yolks of Eggs, boiled hard; fresh Butter, an Ounce and an Half; and Wax enough to bring it to a Consistence. For Tetters take Juice of white Hellebore, Scordium, of each Half an Ounce; of Mug-wort an Ounce and an Half; Powder of Arum Root, Antimony, Cerus, Frankincense, Myrrh, Acacia, each a Dram; beat all up in a leaden Mortar; mix, and anoint with it.

144.

HEMLOCK ( Cicuta) being a Poison, is not used inwardly, but outwardly, chiefly in Swellings, and Inflammations of the Liver or Spleen. Its Poultise or Plaister, ease Pains. It discusses hard Tumours, or Ganglions, powerfully. Dr. Bowle gave twenty Grains of the powdered Root, in malignant Fevers, and in Quartans, just before the Fit, and ordered the Sick to Bed; he says, it much exceeds all [...] he ever tried. Its Plaister, with Gum Ammoniac, Hartman calls the wonderful [Page 137] Plaister, for schirrous Spleens. A Poultise of the Leaves, laid to the Cods, extinguishes Lust strongly; therefore it is neither applied in Poultises alone to that Part in Man, nor to Womens Breasts in Inflammations; but it is usefully and safely laid to any other inflamed Part of the Body; it repels the Heat from creeeping Ulcers, occasioned by sharp Humours. The bruised Leaves, laid to the Forehead, are good for red and moist Eyes, ease the Pain, take away the Inflammation and Redness. It also takes off Pin or Web, grown over the Eye. If any eat the Herb instead of Parsley, or the Root instead of Parsnip, strong Wine is reckoned to be the best Antidote; I knew a Lady who was very fond of Parsley, and eat a hearty Breakfast of young Hemlock Leaves, instead of Parsley; the Mistake was quickly discovered, and she was made to drink a Pint of the best French Brandy at once, yet neither did the Herb hurt her, nor the Brandy in the least affect her. In Poultises, Plaisters, Ointments, and Fomentations, it is not only good in Inflammations, but in Schirruses, Cancers, Hardness of Liver and Spleen. The Leaves boiled in Milk are good for the Piles. A Poultise of the bruised Leaves, with Snails, and made up with the four resolving Meals, is a Specific for Inflammations of the Testicles, or Sciatica. Sleeping near, or on the Herb, disturbs the Head. A Poultise of it is good in Ganglions.

145.

HEMP. ( Cannabis) Take Heads of great Hemp, Number five; Tops of Feverfew and Penny-royal, of each Half a Handful; boil in New-wort a Pint to a Half, strain and drink it off going to Bed, repeat it for two or three Nights; it is a Remedy to bring down the Menses minime fallax. I once ordered [Page 138] only the Hemp alone, where they had been obstructed not only Months, but some Years, with Success; and, when it could not break the Uterine or Vaginal Vessels, the Woman threw up Blood from the Lungs, but had them naturally the next Time. If at any Time any Thing more is wanting, it need only be powdered, Spignal Root and Sugar mixed. Some pretend the following a great Secret against Pissing the Bed: Take bruised Hemp-seed, three Ounces; Agrimony, Shepherd's Purse, Plantain, Knot-grass, of each a Handful and a Half; boil all in six Pints of Water, to four; strain, and add Syrup of dried Roses, four Ounces; Dose six Spoonfuls every Night. A Decoction of the Seed, in Milk, helps a Cough; and boiled in Milk till it burst, then strained, and five or six Ounces of it given several times to drink, has cured the Jaundice in many. Its Emulsion is also good, if there is no Fever, and given at first. Its Juice is the Bane of Insects, in Wounds or Ulcers. A Decoction of the Seed, poured on the Ground, brings Earth-worms out of their Holes, the same as a Decoction of Peach Leaves, or Walnut-tree Buds, does. Hens, fed with the Seed, lay Eggs plentifully all Winter, and are very fat. An Oil expressed from it quickly, cures all Burns, and draws out the Heat and Pain. The Juice, dropped into the Ears, eases their Pain. An Emulsion of the Seed takes out fresh Marks of the Small Pox. A Decoction of the Seed eases the Pain of the Cholic. It kills Worms in the Bowels, or Ears of Man or Beast.

146.

HEMP AGRIMONY-WATER, or DUTCH AGRIMONY ( Eupatorium Cannabinum) is excellent for the Liver or Wounds. It is used in Coughs, Catarrhs, Cachexies, retained Urine and Menses. It is a noble [Page 139] outward Vulnerary. A Decoction of the Root, drank fasting, moves the Belly once, but a large Dose of it, says Gesnerus, causes severe, but safe Vomiting, and brings up much Phlegm. Its Juice kills Worms in Cattle. People should use it inwardly, in a very small Quantity, if at all. Rustics, in Flanders, drink a Decoction of it for the Jaundice, with great Success. Two Ounces of the Juice of the Leaves, or a Dram of its Extract in a Ptisan made of it, opens Obstructions of the Bowels, especially those that succeed Intermittents. A Tea of its Leaves, drank, after the Legs have been well bathed in its Decoction, gives Relief in a Dropsy. The Top with the Flowers are very Vulnerary. A Whey, made with it and Fumitory, is good in the Green Sickness, Itch, and Diseases of the Skin, only the Roots are purgative.

147.

HENBANE ( Hyoscyamus) is a great Narcotic, asswages Pain, allays Inflammations, and mitigates the Sharpness of the Humours, but it disturbs and perverts all the rational Faculties, and causes Madness; if taken in too great Quantity, it causes certain Death. Its internal Use is very hurtful; outwardly, it eases Pains in Parts distant from the Head, and discusses Swellings of the Testicles, and eases the Pain of the Gout and Sciatica, if boiled in Milk. The Leaves roasted under the Ashes, and applied to Womens Breasts newly delivered, hinde [...] [...]he Flux of Milk to them, and discusses hard Knots in them; or the Seeds, bruised in Wine, may be applied for the same Purpose in a Poultise; the Oil expressed out of them does the same. The Temples anointed with its Oil is a powerful Hypnotic. The Loins and Perinaeum, anointed with it, is good to stop a Gonorrhoea, or too large a Flux of the Menses. If [Page 140] the Ear is sprinkled with it, mixed with Saffron and Castor, it will ease its Pains, when milder Anodynes will not. The powdered Seed, with Conserve of Roses and white Poppy Seeds, made into an Electuary with Syrup of Poppies, is good in a Spitting of Blood. The Smoke of the Seeds on live Coals, cures chilblained Heels, if they are well squeezed after. The Seed is a Specific in Ulcers, of the Urinary Passages. The white Seed is safer than the black, and the expressed Juice of the Leaves, than what distils from them wounded.

148.

HERB-ROBERT (Geranium Robertianum) is an excellent Vulnerary both outwardly and inwardly; it stops Fluxes of Blood, dissolves extravasated, clotted Blood, cleanses Wounds and Ulcers, expels small Stones and Gravel, and eases Cholic Pains. Fomentations of its Decoction sooth Arthritic Pains. It is commended for curing Ruptures. Fabrit. Hildan used its Decoction with Success for cancerous Breasts, chapped Nipples, and Ulcers of the privy Parts; for Bruises and Wounds. For the first of these use the Decoction and Poultise; for the second and third an Ointment and Poultise. For the Stone and Pains of the Joints, let its Decoction be drank, and apply Poultises made of the boiled Herb. How it came into Fuchsius's Head to imagine its Use unsafe, because of its Coldness, is strange, when we see it not only used in Cancers, but it is one of the grand Specifics in the King's-evil; as take of this Herb, white Horebound, Smallage, Agrimony, of each a Handful; Dill-seed, Half an Ounce; boil all in three Pints of Water to one, strain for four Doses, and squeeze forty Hog lice into each Dose, which take sweetened, twice a Day, for a Month together; but it is better infused in Wine. A Cataplasm of it, [Page 141] Celandine, and Pigeons Dung, is a certain Cure of white Swellings of the Feet after Chronic Diseases. See Herb Paris, Holy-tree, &c.

149.

HERBA PARIS, TRUE LOVE, or ONE BERRY. The Leaves and Berries cool and dry. The inward Use of the Berries is Alexipharmac in the Plague, contagious Diseases, and Poisons, taken inwardly. The Leaves are used outwardly, in Plague Sores, and other Swellings, Felons, Whitlows, and inveterate Ulcers; says Schroder. They gather the Berries before Sun-rising, whilst it is in Gemini. The powdered Berries taken, to the Number of five or six, in Lime-flower Water, are good in the Falling-Sickness; and Half a Dram is said to relieve Epileptics. Mathiolus extols it against Witchcraft, if taken a Dram at a Time daily, for twenty Days together. It was from its meer Shape accounted poisonous, till Pena and Lobel by sufficient Experiments proved the contrary. The powdered Roots taken in Wine ease the Cholic instantly. The Leaves discuss Swellings, allay Inflammations speedily, and Tumours in the Scrotum, privy Parts, and Groin; they cure Wounds, cleanse and heal Ulcers. Their Juice takes away Heat and Inflammation of the Eyes.

HERBA PARIS. We have none of this Species in our Provinces; there is another Species supposed, that grows towards the Heads of our Rivers.

150.

HERB ONE-BLADE ( Monophyllon) Half a Dram, or a Dram, of its powdered Root, taken in Wine and Vinegar, and the Sick put to Bed instantly, to sweat, is an excellent Remedy for those infected with the Plague, and have a Sore on them; it expels the Poison powerfully; it is a Specific Wound-Herb, whether used inwardly in Powder, Diet [Page 142] Drinks, or Decoctions; or outwardly in Ointments, Lotions, or Plaisters.

I have not seen any of this Species in our Provinces.

151.

HERB TWAY-BLADE (Bisolium) is a little astringent, has a clammy, sweetish Juice; it is often used with good Success to cure both new and old Wounds, and fresh Ruptures. Pliny says, it turns the Hair of the Eye-brows black.

TWAY-BLADE. None in these Provinces.

152.

HOLLY-TREE ( Agrifolium) ten or twelve of its Berries, eaten, are very good in the Cholic; for they bring off, by Stool, thick, gross, and phlegmatic Humours. A Decoction of the Prickles of the Leaves in a Posset Drink of Ale and Milk, drank, cures the Cholic, when other more likely Things were tried before in vain. Mathiolus commends a Fomentation of a Decoction of the Roots, for a Hardness of the Joints, to dissolve Swellings, and heal broken Bones. The Bark of this Tree affords an excellent Bird-lime, but fatal if taken inwardly, because of its Glutinousness. A Dram of the powdered Leaf, drank in a Glass of warm Liquor, is commended in Pains of the Back. For Gripes, Holly Leaves, boiled in Posset Drink, and drank; or a Decoction of Vervain Mallows drank; or Root of Master-wort in Infusion, or Decoction. A Servant Maid, who by Fits for five Years had endured most terrible Pains of the Belly, which went off each Time with a great Noise, like the Report of a Pistol, to the frequent Surprise of Strangers, who knew not the Matter; for seven Days together I ordered her to take each Morning, a Dram of the powdered Leaves in warm Drink; on the fifth Day she passed, by Stool, seven large Globes or Balls, each wrought and intorted like ravelled Thread, Hair, or Fibres, [Page 143] exceeding spongy and light, like the Pilae Marinae, but so very tough, that break they would not, and I with much Difficulty cut one of them; it had no Nucleus, but was the same throughout; she was perfectly cured ever after. The Powder either of Leaves or Berries, taken from one to two Drams in a Glass of Brandy, Evening and Morning, for some Days, cures Stitches, violent Pains of the Sides, Back, Belly, or Stomach▪ of longer Continuance, or coming, as this Woman's did, by Fits. One, noted for the Cure of a Rheumatism, had no other Method or Secret, but the tender Buds, or young Leaves of Holly boiled in Water, strained, and the Liquor sweetened with Melasses; the Sick drank Half a Pound of this warm in Bed, at each Dose, till the Pain was quite gone; it was a most powerful Sudorific all the While, and Plenty of small Liquors were drank to dilute it.

153.

HONEY SUCKLES ( Periclymenum) Leaves and Flowers are cleansing, resolving, and digesting; like Hyssop, Savoury, or Wild Marjoram. With Figs and Liquorice, it effectually causes Spitting up of thick Phlegm that stuffs up the Lungs. The powdered Leaves, or Flowers, or their Water, cleanse and dry up foul, moist Ulcers, and clear the Face from all Discolouring or Deformity. The Oil of the Flowers, by Insolation, is good in Cramps, Convulsions, Palsies, and other cold Diseases of the Nerves. The Water given with Lavender Seed hastens the Birth. It is a very hot and drying Plant. Border says, a Decoction of Honey-suckle, Plantain, and Barley, strained, and a little Sugar of Lead put to it, is a fine Gargle for sore Mouths; or a Lotion for Sores or Ulcers. In dangerous venereal Ulcers of the Throat, after Mercurial Purge [...] [Page 144] [...] took a Decoction of Honey-suckle, six Ounces; Honey of Roses, two Ounces; Diamoron, one Ounce and a Half; all mixed and sharpened with Spirit of Vitriol for a Gargle; or for ulcerated Mouths, he used a Decoction of Honey-suckles, Plantain, and Barley, a Pint; Honey of Roses, two Ounces and a Half; Diamoron, two Ounces; all mixed, sharpened with Spirit of Vitriol, and used in a Gargle. If the Ulcers were large and foul, he first touched them with Oil of Vitriol. For Ulcers on the Lip like Cancers, he used washed Aloes, Half an Ounce; prepared Salt, two Drams; Honey, four Ounces; mix and dress with it.

154.

HOPS (Lupulus) their first Buds boiled and eaten in the Spring, as Asparagus, though they nourish little, yet open Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, loosen the Belly, cleanse the Blood and Reins from Gravel and Sand, and take off Stoppage of Water. The Tops or Roots boiled have the same Effect, but hotter than the moister Buds; by purifying the Blood, they are of great Use against Scab, Itch, Tetters, Ringworms, Morphew, spreading Sores, and all Eruptions on the Skin, and Discolouring. A Decoction of the Flowers and Tops, drank, is said to expel Poison. Half a Dram of the Seed, taken in Drink, expels Worms, Urine, and Menses. The Flowers and Heads put into Womens Bathes, cures Swellings of the Uterus, and Strangury. The Juice of the Leaves dropped into the Ears cure their putrid Ulcers; steeped in Whey they gently purge off Choler. A Syrup of their Juice cures the Jaundice, eases the Head-ach from Heat, and tempers the Heat of Liver and Stomach, and is good in obstinate Agues from Choler. Clusius gives a Receipt of them, how to recover Hair fallen off by the [Page 145] French Pox. But their chief Use is for purifying, preserving, and giving a vinous Flavour to Malt Liquors. But whether their Use in Drink contributes to breeding the Stone, has been often and warmly debated; but it may be easily answered, that Hops prodigiously improve Malt Liquor for the Use of gross, corpulent, phlegmatic, cachectic, and cacochimic Habits, or such as live grosly and easily; but greatly injure it to lean, hectic, thin, sanguine or choleric Bodies, whose Blood being already too sharp, their Vessels want no Stimulus, as those of the others do. Hence it is that the first labouring under the Stone, want inciding, stimulating Remedies, as of Horse Radish, Leeks, Millepedes, Cantharides, &c. The last, slippery, oily Anodynes, as Syrup of Althaea, Oil of Sweet Almonds, Diacodium, Pil. Math. &c. to relax the Passages, lull the Pain, and take off a too furious, natural Stimulus, stirr'd up for Expulsion, but streightens the Passage, and increases Pain and other Symptoms.

155.

HOREHOUND (Marrubium) (common white) its Syrup or Juice, mixed with Honey, is of great Use to asthmatic and consumptive Persons, and such as are troubled with a Cough. The dried Herb, powdered, kills Worms in the Guts. It is beneficial in hard Labour, and to bring down the Terms, or Lochia. It is a good Stomachic, and either Decoction, Tea, Syrup, Powder, Juice or Pills of it, are of great Service in Disorders of the Breast and Lungs, from much thick, cold Phlegm, and in a Cachexy, Green Sickness, &c. An Ounce of its Conserve taken daily for forty Days, in a Glass of its distilled Water, cured a schirrous Liver, when all other Medicines failed. Two Ounces of the Syrup, [Page 146] with twenty Drops of Oil of Tartar, taken every Day thrice, for some Time, is an excellent Remedy for the Jaundice. The Herb opens Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, as well as purges the Breast and Lungs from Phlegm; or causes the Menses; and expels the Lochia and Secundine; or outwardly cleanses, digests, and is good for the Itch, and running Tetters; young People, especially bilious and sanguine, must not be so free with it, as the old and phlegmatic. Too long and free Use of it hurts or endangers the Kidneys and Bladder, and exposes them to Exulcerations. Mathiolus says, that two Ounces fresh, boiled in three Pints of good white Wine, till a Half is wasted, with Roots of Bugloss, Elecampane, and Agrimony, of each a Dram and a Half; Rhubarb and Lign-aloes, of each a Dram; Dose two Ounces every Morning, for nine Mornings, in the Jaundice; but he says, aguish People should make this Decoction with Water. A Stove of the Decoction of this Herb, sat over, is excellent for the Whites. A Wash of the Decoction heals moist or dry Scabs. The Herb put in new Milk, and set in a Place pestered with Flies, kills them all quickly. The Herb, used for the Menses, should be used with Tincture, or Syrup of Steel, but not to the Sanguine. Ground-ivy, in Diseases of the Lungs and Breast, should be used to the young Sanguine, instead of the Horehound. A Decoction of Horehound, boiled up to the Consistence of a thin Syrup, is good for Spitting of Blood. This Disease I knew cured in a young Man, when all other Things failed, by the fine Powder of old dried Horse Bones, boiled in Ale to a Consistence, then added Powder of Irish Slate, and Sugar-Candy; Dose Half a small Spoonful of it.

[Page 147]

156.

HORSE-TAIL (Equisetum) which grows in open dry Fields, is well grown, and comes early, is best. It is a very cooling, astringent Herb; hence its Powder, the Decoction, or Syrup of its Juice, is a powerful, generous, and ready Remedy, for Vomiting, or Spitting of Blood, bloody Urine, excessive Menses, or Ulcers of Kidneys or Bladder. Its tender Buds, eaten as Asparagus, are good in those Cases. A Poultise of it, laid on, heals great Wounds, even where the Nerves are cut; whereof Sim. Pauli gives a surprising Instance. Casp. Hoffman says, he and others have done Wonders with it in slow, and even in malignant Fevers. A Dram of the Root powdered, given in Pomegranate Juice, Morning and Evening daily, cures a Spitting of Blood; as does two Ounces of its Juice, or two Ounces of it, taken the same Way, cure Ulcers of the Breast and Lungs. A Dram of its Powder, taken often in Plantain Water, is commended in Consumptions. Bauhinus says, it is good in Pains of the Stomach, for the Stone, and involuntary Urine. For Ulcers of the Bladder a Specific, Horse-tail, six Handfuls; three sliced Quinces, Sumach, Myrtle Berries, each an Ounce and an Half; dried red Roses, an Handful and an Half; Balaustins, three Drams; boil in nine Pints of Water to five, strain, and add Honey of Roses, Syrup of dried Roses, of each three Ounces; Syrup of Myrtles, an Ounce and a Half; mix all, and use thrice a Day.

HORSE-TAIL. We have several Species, but most of them grow in Marshes, or on Banks near the Water; one Species is used for Scowering, and is like a rough Rush.

157.

HOUND'S-TONGUE ( Cynoglossum) cools and dries; it is mostly used to stop Fluxes of the Belly, and to dry Catarrhs, and Gonorrhoeas. It stops Blood. It is useful for all Wounds and Ulcers. A Decoction of the Herb in Wine and Chalybeat Water, of each alike, strained, to wash ulcerated Breasts with, [Page 148] and the strained out Leaves applied in a Poultise, they cure. An Ointment of its Juice, with Honey and Turpentine, is wonderful in old malignant and fistulous Ulcers and Chops in the Anus. Being a narcotic Poison, like Opium, it is seldom given inwardly, except with great Judgment and Caution, though it is used outwardly with much Freedom, Safety, and Advantage, like Poppies. A Decoction of the Root, drank, and a Poultise of it laid on outwardly, was used with great Success in scrophulous Tumours. An Amulet of the Root hung about the Neck, is good in the lousy Disease. The Bark is bitter, saltish, styptic, and glutinous. The Pills made of it, stay all thin Defluxions of Rheum on the Eyes, Nose, Stomach, or Lungs; they are good in Coughs and Shortness of Breath. A Decoction of the Leaves in Lard, rubbed on, hinders Falling off of the Hair, and cures Burns and Scalds. The Leaf bruised, and laid to a Wound, quickly heals it. The Ointment, or Juice, heals the above Ulcers, or Inflammations about them. A Suppository of it helps the Piles.

HOUND'S-TONGUE. The Species mentioned here, grows in curious Gardens, but we have a wild Species or two, that grow on rich Hills (their Seed is very rough) and is called Wild Comfry, by some Indian Tobacco.

158.

HOUSLEEK (Sedum) is very cooling and astringent; its chief inward Use being in bilious Fevers, it quenches Thirst, and checks the Heat. The Juice is commonly given with a little Sugar, or mixed; or the Herb is infused in Posset Drink. It is also given in spotted and hectic Fevers. Tragus dipped Linnen Cloths in the Juice, and applied to Inflammations in any Part of the Body, as to the Head, Eyes, Liver, Stomach, Kidneys, &c. It is also very good in Burns. The Juice rubbed on Warts, or Corns, and covered with the Membrane of the Leaf, and kept wet a few Days, takes them quite [Page 149] off, and cures them. For Ulcers of the Matrix and Urethra, take four Ounces of this Juice, ten Ounces of Litharge, two Yolks of Eggs, well beaten, mixed in a leaden Mortar, and applied; it has had great Success. The Leaves stripp'd from their outer Membranes, and put on the parch'd, scurfy, chopp'd Tongue, in hot Fevers, and often renewed, are of good Service. The Juice or Mucilage of Quinces, held in the Mouth, is also excellent. A Syrup of the Juice is good in a Quinsy. The Leaves bruised, and laid to the Forehead, abate a Phrenzy much, and induce Rest; but, when the Sick begins to sleep, remove the Poultise or Mixture; or four Handfuls of Sorrel Leaves; four Ounces of the Root; an Ounce and an Half of the Seed, all bruised, and boiled in Water to a Quart, strain, and add Currant Juice, and a little Sugar; drink hereof freely. The smallest insipid Housleek, with a white Flower, was found to be a most efficacious Antiscorbutic in the Armies. The Juice of the common Sort is excellent for a foundered Horse, if a Quart of it be poured into him. A Gargle of its Water is commended in a Quinsy. The Juice, dropped into the Eyes or Ears, takes away Heat, In [...]ammations, or Rheum, falling on them. And, being drank, it hinders Fluxes of Humours on the Bowels, or excessive Menses. The Juice rubbed on, cures Shingles, Tetters, Ringworms, fretting Ulcers, or the like. The Leaves, bruised and laid to the Head, soon stop Bleeding at the Nose. The Leaves rubbed on any Part stung with Bees, Wasps, &c. cure the Pain. But the Sting being taken out, either by the Hand, or a Poultise of Ashes, Oil, and sour Leaven; Sennertus used Milk of Fig-tree Leaves; or a Poultise of Ducks-meat and Vinegar, of bruised Water Cresses; or of bruised Rue, applied. For the Bite of a Viper, he advises a [Page 150] Poultise of Squills boiled in Vinegar; or of Garlick, Figs, and Venice Treacle; or powdered Roots of Birth-wort, dry Centaury Leaves, Galbanum, and Vinegar; or of Round Birth-wort Roots, Cassia Lignea, Bay-Berries, and Pepper, of each two Drams; Leaves of wild Rue, a Dram and an Half; Castor a Dram; Aniseed Half a Dram; with Honey make an Electuary of the Powders; Dose from a Dram to two Drams, with a Glass of Wine, and apply to the Part a Poultise of Goats Dung, with Vinegar, Pitch, Wax, and Sulphur. He likewise advises either mixed, or separately, Powders of Roots of Asphodel, Round Birth-wort, Briony, Gentian, and Tormentil; Dose from one Dram to two in old Wine; or Powder of Costmary Root, from Half a Dram to a Dram, in a Glass of Wormwood Wine, or a Decoction. Dioscorides.

159.

HYPERICON, or St. JOHN'S-WORT, is a noble Diuretic and Vulnerary; boiled and drank, it is said to cure Tertians and Quartans; it stops Blood-Spitting, and dissolves coagulated Blood; expels Gravel, and kills Worms. A Decoction of the Herb, drank forty Days, or the Seed powdered, cures Jaundice and Gout; it is well adapted to the Stone, and enriches the Blood with a balsamic Quality▪ A Tincture of the Flowers, drank, is a powerful Medicine, in Madness and Melancholy, says Sala, &c. A Tincture of its Flowers, in Brandy, is extolled for killing Worms in the Belly. Gerard prepared two Oils from it, which see in his Herbal. The first whereof, he says, is a most precious Remedy for deep Wounds, and these through the Body; for pricked Sinews, or any Wound made by a poison'd Weapon. It is a compound Oil, than which, he says, the World has not a better; no, not natural Balsam itself. It is made of white Wine, a [Page 151] Quart; Sallad Oil, four Pounds; Oil of Turpentine, two Pounds; Leaves, Flowers, and Seeds, of this Herb gently bruised, of each two Handfuls; put all in a large double Glass, and set it in the Sun eight or ten Days; then boil them in that same Bottle in a Kettle of Water, on some Straw; then strain out the Liquor, and pour it back on a fresh Quantity of the same Parts of the Herb; but put in no Wine, set it in the Sun, then strain and boil as before, and use for the aforesaid Purposes. As the too bold internal Use of the Jesuits or Friars Balsam has had fatal C [...]nsequences in inflammatory Cases of the Breast, and other feverish Disorders; so from this Herb may be contrived one for internal Uses every whit as successful, and infinitely more safe. Hoffman orders the Essence of the Herb in an Apoplexy, Epilepsy, Melancholy, Hypo, and Green Sickness; he will have it to be an Antidaemoniac, that as such he experienced its Virtues. The red Venetian Oil is not only a singular Vulneray, but is good in the Gripes from a cold Cause; three or four Drams of it given in Wine, expels the dead Foetus. Its inward Use is good for Persons newly infected with the Plague.

160.

HYSSOP ( Hyssopus) is hot and biting, it thins, opens, and cleanses; it is mostly used for Cutting, Thinning, and Expectorating gross Phlegm, that stuffs the Lungs, as in Hoarseness, Cough, Shortness of Breath, &c. Its Syrup or Decoction, prepared in a very close Vessel, is excellent in obstinate Diseases of the Breast, where Liquorice, Maidenhair, &c. are not strong enough to answer the End. Outwardly, it is often applied to Eyes discoloured by Blows or Strokes; to cure the singing Noise of the Ears; to cleanse the Uterus, or Mouth, by Gargle. [Page 152] Some esteem it a better Stomachic than Wormwood▪ It provokes Urine, and is good in a Stoppage, Heat, or Dribbling of Urine. The boiled Herb is wrapp'd in Linnen, and laid on black Eyes at Bed-time, and tied on all Night; next Day the Eyes are well. A Man who had his Thigh grievously bruised by the Kick of a Horse, was cured of the Pain in a few Hours, and the Blackness and Blueness of the Skin quite removed, only by a Poultise of the Leaves cut, and beaten up with unsalted Butter. The Herb, close boiled with Rue and Honey, is good in a Cough, Asthma, Wheezing, and Distillation of Rheum on the Lungs. Hyssop, with Oxymel, purges gross Humours by Stool, and taken with Honey it kills Worms in the Belly. Taken with new Figs, it loosens the Belly. It restores the natural Colour of the Body, when spoiled by a Jaundice, or Cachexy. Taken with Figs and Nitre, it cures Dropsy and Spleen. A Gargle and Lotion of it, boiled with Figs, is good in a Quinsy or sore Throat. A Gargle of its Decoction in Vinegar is good for the Tooth-ach. The Steam of its Decoction, received by a Funnel into the Ears, cures their Inflammation. For the Falling Sickness, Pills made of powder'd Hyssop, Horehound, and Castor, of each a Dram; Paeony Roots, forty Grains; Assafoetida, a Scruple; Juice of Hyssop, enough to make Pills for seven Doses, to be taken every Night at Bed-time. Hyssop provokes the Menses. I have known a small Quantity of it in Diet Drink, cause Abortion. It breaks Wind, and eases sharp Ague Fits. The green Herb, bruised with a little Sugar, and laid on, heals any gre [...]n Wounds quickly. Some boil a Handful of Hyssop, two Ounces of Figs, and one Ounce of Sugar-candy in Muscadine Wine, and strain it out, and drink of it every Morning and Evening, for [Page 153] obstinate Coughs. In a Cough, Wheezing, Shortness of Breath, and Stuffing of the Lungs, with tough Phlegm, of difficult Expectorations, some poor People often find Relief from a strong Infusion of Hyssop, Rosemary-tops, and Sage in Vinegar, strained, and sweetened with brown Sugar-candy. For a Cough, take Tussilago, or Colt's-foot, Hyssop, and Maidenhair, each a Handful; Liquorice Root, an Ounce; Liquorice Juice, Half an Ounce; stoned Rasins of the Sun, four Ounces; and ten Figs; boil in four Pints of Water to three, then add one Poppy Head with its Seed, boil to two, strain, and drink warm thrice a Day. Woodman. For a Hoarseness take the Yolk and the White of an Egg, in three Ounces of Hyssop Water, mix, and add Sugar-candy, one Ounce; dissolve and strain for a warm Draught.

161.

HEDGE or WATER HYSSOP ( Gratiola) is a most powerful excellent Remedy for evacuating thin, watery, or slow bilious Humours, both upward and downward, even from the remotest Parts of the Body; hence its special Use in Dropsies, Jaundice, Sciatica, and obstinate Spring Intermittents, given either in Decoction, or in Powder, from twenty Grains to thirty; but being so violent an Evacuant, it must be corrected with Ginger, Juice of Calamint, Cinnamon, or Sal Gem, and, being very bitter, it kills and expels Worms of all Sorts. Bruised and applied, it speedily heals up Wounds. Its Extract cures Quotidians and Tertians.

GRATIOLA. We have a Species very like this; it grows in Places which are mostly covered with Water in Winter, and Part of the Spring.

162.

JACK BY THE HEDGE ( Alliaria) is a Sort of Garlick or Scordium. The green Herb provokes Urine. [Page 154] The Decoction of the dry, in wine, is good against P [...]ison. A Linctus of it and Rosin, with Honey, is good against an old Cough. It powerfully resists Putrefaction. Hence the Herb and its thickened Juice, in Ointmment, and Poultise, is good against Gangrenes, and all putrid and malignant Ulcers. Its Seed, laid Plaister-ways to the Sharebone, raises Persons out of Hysterics. The Seed snuffed up provokes Sneezing, and makes the Nose run freely. A Decoction of the Herb in Oil and Water, drank, is serviceable to Asthmatics. A Clyster of the Decoction of its Leaves is good in cholical and nephritic Pains, and Stone; Fabrit. Hildan. extols its Juice in Gangrenes, putrid and malignant Ulcers, especially as it herein approaches so near the Nature of Scordium, which is only to be got in some Places, and at one Season, and mostly dry, and the other in most Places. The Herb, eaten, warms the Stomach, and causes Digestion. Its Juice with Honey is thought as good as Hedge Mustard for a Cough, to cut and expectorate Phlegm. A Decoction of the bruised Seed in Wine, drank, is good in Cholic, Stone, and Hysterics.

ALLIAR [...]A. I have not observed any of it to grow in any of our Provinces.

163.

JUNIPER ( Juniperus) the rasped Wood is put into quilted Caps for the Head, as being friendly to the Brain and Nerves. Of the Wood is made Ashes, through which Wine being strained, becomes so powerful a Sudorific, that it drains Water from the whole Habit. From the dry Wood is drawn an Oil by the Alembic, whose outward Use is serviceable in nervous Diseases, Cancers, Wounds, and Ulcers. The Berries eaten alone, or chewed in the Mouth, are good for a cold Stomach, digest Phlegm in it, expel Wind, relieve Diseases of the [Page 155] Breast and Cough, are very diuretic, and powerfully expel Sand, Stone, Gravel, and Poisons; bring down the Menses, and gross Humours about the Hips. They are very good in Diseases of the Head and Nerves. In Lapland they are infused, or boil'd, and drank daily, like Tea or Coffee with us, and are their chief Physick. The Juice, extracted from the Berry, is good in all the above Disorders. The Oil, made by the Alembic, is good in Gripes, Gravel, and Worms. The outer Bark of the Berries broke and infused in Wine, makes a noble antinephritic, if used daily for some Time. The Elixir of Juniper is both good in the Stone, and a great Stomachic. The Berries are reputed good against the Plague. Some substitute Juniper Wood for Guajac in the French Pox. An Infusion, or Decoction of the Berries, is good in Hysterics, old Coughs, Chin-coughs, Flatulency, &c.

164.

IVY (Hedera) is so hot, acrid, and astringent, that it is hurtful to the Nerves, therefore it is not used inwardly. Its fresh Leaves are better for Issues than Oil Cloth, and prevent their Inflammation, as well as promote their Running. Pease of its Wood draw well, and last a Month. The Leaves are good in Ulcers of the Nose (Ozaena) and to ease the Pain of Ulcers in the Ears. An Ointment made of them is good for Scalds and Burns. A Decoction of Ivy strained, and its Gum dissolved in it, or the Juice of the Tree to wash the Head, hinders the Hair from growing, and so does the Powder of Nettle-seed with Vinegar. The dried Berries sewed up in a thin Silk Bag, and worn on the Spleen, is good for its Pain and Swelling; or the Leaves may be boiled in Vinegar and applied. A Pugil of the Powder of the dried Flowers, taken in Wine, stops [Page 156] the Bloo [...] Flux. Half a Dram of the Berry-stones, drank in Wine, provokes Urine, and expels Sand, Gravel, and small Stones, surprisingly. A few of the powdered Stones drank every Morning, for seven Days, in a Glass of Pennyroyal Water, with a little Saffron, is a sure Remedy to bring down obstructed Terms. A few of the Stones eaten before a Debauch, are said to prevent Drunkenness. The Berries, eaten by strong Rusticks, purge violently upward and downward. A large Dose of Powder of the unripe Berries is one of Alexis's Secrets against the Plague; for a Dram in white Wine is a strong Sudorific. The Oil of the distilled Berries is powerful against all Diseases of the Joints, provokes the Menses, expels Gravel, and cleanses sordid Ulcers. From two Drams to four of the Juice of the Tree digests and repels in a Quinsey. The Juice of the Leaves snuffed up the Nose cleanses the Head effectually; it also eases the Pain, stays the Running, and heals old obstinate Ulcers of Ears, or Nose; if it is too sharp, it may be mixed with Oil of Roses. Take Ivy Leaves two or three Handfuls, rough Barley as much, boil both close in Water, and pour them out into a Pipkin, or narrow mouthed deep Vessel, to receive the Steam into the Mouth and Throat for a Quinsy. A Woman was famous, and cured Hundreds of poor People of a Quinsy by this: Take Powder of Album Graecum, Cinnabar, and Honey, of each alike; make round Balls to hold in the Mouth, and swallow as they dissolve; it seldom fails. For Deafness, take Gum Ivy rolled long, when hot and moist; put it into the Ear in a Piece of very thin Tiffany, let it lie till the Ear begins to run, and pull the Roll back: Dr. Po. For Corns, wash the Feet, and cut the Corns in the Wane of the Moon daily, apply fresh Ivy Leaves to them, and in fifteen Days they will fall [Page 157] out; or drop the Juice of Radishes on them; or the skinn'd Leaves of Housleek laid on them; or, for watery Swellings of the Feet, a Poultise of Herb Robert is sure. For kibed or chilblained Heels, foment them with a Decoction of Turnip Roots; or anoint them with the expressed Liquor from a Turnip scooped, filled with Rose Oil, and roasted under the Embers; or apply a frozen Turnip, or roasted Turnip Peelings applied warm, twice or thrice a Day; or a scooped Radish Root, filled with Oil of Roses, boiled, and the Liquor expressed and used.

165.

KNAP-WEED (Jacea) being very much like Scabious, is thought to be much of the like Nature; for, being of an astringent and drying Taste, it is good to stop Fluxes both of Blood at the Mouth, Nose, or other outward Parts, or from inward Wounds, or Breaches of Vessels, or Vomiting or Purging much, and checks the Distillation of Rheum on the Throat, Breast, Lungs, and Stomach; and is good for Bruises and Falls. Its Decoction, drank in Wine, and applied outwardly, is good in Ruptures; and singularly good in all Kinds of Sores, cancerous or fistulous; dries up their Moisture, and heals them. It does the same to Scabs, sore Throats, and Swellings of the Uvula or Jaws. ^* It stays the Blood, closes up and heals green Wounds.

[Page 158]

166.

KNOT-GRASS ( Polygonum) is a Vulnerary, dries and astringes. It is used chiefly to stop Fluxes or Haemorrhages, as a Looseness, Dysentery, Menses, and Bleeding at the Nose or Mouth. It is used in Juice, Syrup, Decoction, Infusion, or Powder; outwardly, it is good for Wounds, Ulcers, or Inflammations of the Eyes.

167.

LADIES MANTLE ( Alchimilla) is among the chief Vulneraries, used either inwardly or outwardly. It warms, dries, astringes, stops Blood, Terms, and Whites. The Roots, Leaves and Tops, being all vulnerary, are used in Draughts, Powders, Decoctions, Syrups, Plaisters, &c. Linnen Cloths, dipped in its Decoction, laid on large, loose, flabby Breasts, purse them up. Its Decoction, drank with its Powder, heals Wounds, and Children's Ruptures. It is more cooling, drying, binding, and astringent, than Sanicle; therefore, better for Inflammations, Wounds, and Haemorrhages. Its Decoction, drank six Weeks together, often makes [Page 159] the Barren fruitful, by drying up the too great Moisture and Laxness of the Uterus, and giving it a better Tone. A Bath of its Decoction may be used.

ALCHIMILLA. I have not observed it to grow in any of our Provinces.

168.

LADIES BED-STRAW (Gallium luteum) (the yellow) is vulnerary and cleansing; reputed good in the Epilepsy, as is its Tea for the Gout, and Syrup of its Flowers to expel the Menses; and a Fomentation, or Bath of its Decoction, to dry Childrens Scabs; and the Powder of the Herb taken for Haemorrhages, which it stops; and to cure Cancers, or cancerous Ulcers. Its Flowers put into Sallad Oil, and set forty Days in the Sun, afford a good Ointment for Burns and Scalds; and to anoint the Feet of weary Travellers, whose Fatigue it quite takes off. A Decoction of the Herb does the same. The Roots provoke Lust, and excite to Venery. The common white Bed-straw is very beneficial in the Falling Sickness.

LADIES BED-STRAW. It grows in Botanick Gardens.

169.

LADIES-THISTLE (Carduus Mariae) is thought to have the same Virtues, as the holy or blessed Thistle. Its Decoction is used for Stuffings of the Liver and Bowels; for easing, by Urine, Dropsy, Jaundice, and Nephritics. Tragus says, its distilled Water cures Stitches, and other Diseases of the Sides. Its Seed is used in Emulsions, for those Purposes, and the Water outwardly, to dip Cloths in, to lay on fretting eating Ulcers. The Juice of the green Herb, applied to beginning Cancers in the Breast or Nose, is as effectual for that, as a Dram of Columbine Seed given at a Time, and often, is beneficial in a Vertigo, or Small Pox, wherein it is justly esteemed a Specific; as a Decoction of fat [Page 160] Figs, Number twenty two; Lentils, grosly bruised, one Ounce; rasped Hart's-horn, Half an Ounce, all boiled in a Quart of Posset Drink, or Milk and Water, and drank, ripens and fills the Small Pox most powerfully; and, if they are only full of Water, a Decoction of Lentils, drank, exceeds all.

170.

LAMBS LETTUCE ( Valerianella) cools and moistens, is a little laxative, is somewhat of the Nature of Lettuce, and used for it in the Spring.

171.

LAVENDER (Lavendula) being of subtile, fine Parts, is proper for Head and Nerves; it is chiefly used for Catarrhs, Palsy, Cramp, Vertigo, Lethargy, Shakings of the Joints, expelling Urine, Menses, and Foetus (for which it is often prescribed to Women in Labour) and in windy Gripes of the Belly. Outwardly, it is used in Lees to wash the Head and Joints. It is chewed to repel the Catarrh to the Palate, that it fall not on the Breast. Its distilled Water smelt to is a great Reviver of the Spirits; the Compound is good for the Head, and a great Cordial. The Conserve of the Flowers answers the Purposes of the Herb. The two following are taken for great Secrets in hard Labour: First, Powder of Lavender Seed, Half a Dram; Seeds of Plantain and Endive, of each two Scruples; Pepper, a Scruple; mix, and take in Honey-suckle and Endive Waters, of each three Ounces: Secondly, Powder of Lavender-seed, Half a Dram; of prepared white Amber and Borax, of each two Scruples; Oil of Cinnamon, six Drops; mix for three Doses, to be given in Rhenish Wine. Oil of Spike, or any other Oil rubbed on the Head, kills Lice. A Decoction of Lavender Flowers, [Page 161] Horehound and Asparagus Roots, and a Stick of Cinnamon, is good for the Epilepsy, and Swimming of the Head. Two Spoonfuls of the distilled Water of the Flowers help such as have lost their Speech, and restore it. A Bathe of the Lesser Lavender is good in Hysterics, and promotes Child-Birth. The Oil of Lavender is too hot for inward Use. The Herb and Flowers are good in all Diseases of the Head from a cold Cause, but by no Means for a Hot, Bilious, Inflammatory, or Acrid. It strengthens the Stomach and Liver. An Infusion of the Flowers in Wine, helps a Stoppage of Urine. It is also a good Gargle for the Tooth-ach. It is good in Swooning and Fainting.

172.

LAVENDER-COTTON ( Abrotonum foemina) or Female Southernwood, agrees in Virtues with Male Southernwood, being used in Obstructions of the Liver, Kidnies, and Uterus. It cures the Jaundice. Either Herb or Seed, boiled in Milk, and drank, kills Worms. Powder of its Leaves taken ten Mornings, then intermitted the other ten, and repeated again, cures the Fluor Albus. It is good in discutient Fomentations and Poultises; but it is chiefly used to adorn the Edges of Borders in Gardens.

LAVENDER-COTTON. I have not observed it to grow in any of our Provinces.

173.

LEEKS ( Porrum) are somewhat of the Nature of Garlick, they thin, open, incide, and dissolve the Humours. Outwardly they are good for Noise of the Ears, and to promote Suppuration, and Swellings of the Piles. Their white Part fried, and laid to the pained Side in Pleurisies, has relieved many. Their Juice, mixed with a little Tartar and green Wax, and often put up [...] Nose, is good for a [Page 162] Polypus. Its Juice, drank, is good for the Stone in gross, phlegmatic Bodies. Their Use is liable to the same Inconvenience as Garlick, in the like Constitutions, as are all the Onion Tribe. Leeks provoke the Menses and Spitting, stimulate the Seed Vessels, and excite Venery. ^* They prevent Drunkenness, and depress Vapours. Outwardly, they are good against Biting of Serpents, and Burning. In cold Weather, they are proper for phlegmatic, and old People; or such as have very gross pituitous Humours. Juice of Leeks and Elder, of each equal Parts; Dose three or four Spoonfuls twice a Day. It is a Specific in a Tympany. Juice of Lettuce, often held in the Mouth, is good for a Swelling of the Tongue.

174.

LILLY OF THE VALLEY ( Lilium Convallium) its Leaves, but especially the Flowers, are good against Apoplexy, Falling Sickness, Palsy, Vertigo, and other Diseases of the Head, from a cold Cause. Some reckon them Cordial. Their Waters, either distilled alone, or with generous Wine, and Flowers of Lavender and Rosemary. Such as want it stronger, distil it again with fresh Flowers. Powder of Roots and Flowers is a strong Sternutatory. Flowers of this and Sage, of each alike, distilled [Page 163] with Wine, and the Liquor daily rubbed on the whole Backs of Epileptics, from Head to Hips, before a good Fire, has cured many Epilepsies. Sim. Pauli.

175.

LILLY-WATER ( Nymphaea) There is the white and black; the first hath a yellow Flower, and white Root; the last a white Flower, and black Root; both of them dry, bind and cleanse. The former dries most, the latter cleanses most. It dries without Biting or Sharpness, therefore the Antients used it not only in Loosenesses and Bloody Fluxes, but for the Whites. The Roots and Seeds of the white Lilly (which is mostly used when it can be got, but, in Want of it, the other may be taken) cool, dry, and bind. The Leaves and Flowers cool and moisten; both of them are of great Benefit in Fluxes of the Belly; but especially seminal, nocturnal Pollutions, whether voluntary or involuntary; whether from the Heat, Sharpness, or Thinness of the Seed or Blood: So very powerful are they in subduing Lust, beyond any, or all other British Plants, says Prosper Alpinus, that Monks, Nuns, Friars, and Hermits, that would live chastely, drink daily, for twelve Days together, a Dram of it, and Syrup of Poppies; this, says Pliny, deprives the Taker of all Desire, Inclination, and Power of Coition; therefore do the Aegyptians dread and avoid it. In a Priapism, Galen always gave a little of it with Success. And Avicenna cries out how it lessens Pollution, and quite erases venereal Desire; nay, even frequent anointing the Genitals with it, or the Stomach, Reins, or Bladder, it will produce the same Effect; and is therefore much better than a Poultise of bruised Hemlock laid to the Testicles, which only abates the Fury of Lust for a few [Page 164] Hours. This Root used in Ptisans is good in a Gonorrhoea, Heat of Urine, and to lessen immoderate venereal Appetite. It is diuretic, by abating Inflammations, or Sharpness that may stop, diminish, or suppress Urine. The Root is cooling and emollient, very good in all Inflammations; the Syrup disposes a little to Sleep, as well as cools. The Root and Flower, by their viscous Parts, check a too violent Motion of the Humours. Their Decoction sweetens the Blood; is good in burning Fevers; to stay Rheums. Outwardly they soften and supple the Skin, easily cause soft Sleep, and are beneficial in Inflammations. The Root and Seed of the white Lilly, boiled in black Wine, and drank, powerfully stop the Excess of the Menses, even when all other Things fail, and the Case is desperate. The green Leaves laid on slight Wounds, stop the Bleeding. The Aegyptians used the bruised Flowers and Leaves, wherever Heat attended a Disease. The Juice mixed with Milk and Oil of Roses, eases Pain. In Fevers and Watchings, the bruised Leaves, applied to the Head, and the Forehead, and Temples, are anointed with its Juice and Vinegar: The Seed is most powerful in all these Respects, though some use the distilled Water, and that of the Flower chiefly; it is said to take off Freckles, Spots, &c. of the Face. Feverish Heats are also allayed, and soft Sleep procured, by applying the Leaves and Flowers outwardly, or washing the Feet with them; or laying the Leaves on the Loins, Soles of the Feet, and Temples. We are told, that if either of these Water Lillies are dried in the Northern Sun, and hung upon the Bed of a convulsive Person, it will cure him presently. Some commend a Decoction of the Roots, or their Extract, against Madness. The Water is very useful in Excoriations of the Palate, Uvula, and [Page 165] Tongue, from a hot, sharp, and adust Matter. The Flowers are the weakest Part of the Plant; of [...]hem is made a Conserve and Syrup, which is not [...]o somnific as Diacodium, but more so than Syrup [...]f Violets. A Pedilavium of the Flowers (or of [...]he Leaves, when the Flowers are not to be got) [...]urslain, Camomile, and Willow Leaves, with a [...]ew Beech Ashes and Salt, is a surprising Somnific, [...] hot Fevers, with Watchings and Delirium, [...]here Opiates and Anodynes fail; let the Steam of [...]he Pedilavium reach the Bed, when the Sick have got [...]nto it, till they fall asleep. There is a small Sort, called the Ranae Morsus, or Nymyhaea Minima, but of its Virtues we know nothing; it is never used, or wanted, being satisfied of the good Effects of the other; which makes it surprising, that it is so little known in the present Practice.

176.

LILLY (white) (Lilium album) The distilled Water of the Flowers, given in hard Labour, with [...] little Saffron, expels Birth, and After-birth, two or three Spoonfuls of it recover from fainting Fits. [...]t is often used in Diseases of the Lungs, as Cough, [...]hortness of Breath, &c. A little Camphire, or Oil of Tartar, dissolved in it, gives the Countenance a fine Colour. Its Oil is made by three or four Days Infusion in the Sun in Oil, then strain it out, and pour on fresh Leaves and Flowers; repeat it a third Time, then express the Oil, and keep for Use. It has surprising Effects in Pains, and all cold Disorders. It loosens, softens, and eases Pain; is good in the Cholic, from the Stone, and Pleurisy; but especially for contracted Sinews and Nerves; in a Schirrus of the Uterus and Menses obstructed therefrom. The Root is much used outwardly to soften and ripen Swellings; and in [Page 166] Ointm [...]t to take out Corns of the Feet and Toes, cure Burns, and soften the Pudenda of Women in Labour. Gerard says, that Barley Bread, baked with its Juice, and eaten for a Month, has cured many Dropsies. The expressed Juice of the bruised Root, given in Wine, and drank two or three Days, expels the Venom of the Plague, and throws it out upon the Skin in Bladders and Pustles. The Flowers not only digest and ease Pain, but, infused two or three Days in Wine and distilled, they afford a most excellent Water for the Hypo and Hysterics; Dose from one to three Spoonfuls. The Roots, bruised with Honey, consolidate cut Sinews, or Tendons; waste, and cleanse Ulcers on the Head, and the Scurvy on the Face or Beard. A Poultise of the Roots quickly gathers, ripens, and breaks any Inflammatory, or other Imposthumes, but especially if roasted Onions and Mushrooms be added to it.

177.

LIME or LINDEN-TREE ( Tilia) The Leaves and Bark dry, repel, and provoke Urine. The Mucilage of the Bark, is excellent in Burns or Wounds, especially if it is chewed and rubbed on. The Leaves bruised, and sprinkled with Water, discuss Swellings of the Feet. They are also a sovereign Remedy for the Thrush, and Windy Cramp, in Women with Child. Their expressed Juice, mixed with Wine, and rubbed warm on the Parts, cures the Cramp. The Flowers contain fine Parts, have a pleasant Smell, and their distilled Water is often used for the Falling Sickness, Apoplexy, and Vertigo. Some advise it for a Palpitation, Pains of the Uterus, Stone, and to dissolve coagulated Blood. The Powder of the Berries, is much praised in the Bloody or other Fluxes of the Belly; beaten [Page 167] with Vinegar, and put up the Nose, do stop its Bleeding. A few of them swallowed do the same. The Leaves boiled in Water, strained, and a little Honey and Allum put to the Liquor, cure Childrens sore Mouths. The Leaves boiled tender, beaten up with Hog's Lard, powdered Fenugreek, and Line-seeds, made into a Poultise; apply it hot, it cures hot Swellings, and ripens Imposthumes. Wheat Bran boiled in Water, and applied in a Poultise, with a little Vinegar, Lard, or Butter, quickly disperses Inflammations, and inflammatory Tumours. A Poultise of Barley-meal does the same. The Charcoal of the Wood, mixed with prepared Crabs Eyes, and taken, cures Spitting of Blood, from Bruises, Blows▪ &c. The inner Bark, steeped in Water, makes a fine Mucilage, which naturally heals Burns, and strengthens weak Parts. A Water, distilled from the Bark, is good for sharp Humours, that cause Gripes or bloody Stools. A Conserve of the Flowers of the Female Lime-tree, (for the Male is barren, and has none) is a Specific in Childrens Convulsions.

178.

LIQUORICE ( Glycerrhiza) Root is a great Friend to the Lungs, and Kidnies, it sheathes sharp Humours, from acrid and corroding Salts; promotes Spitting, and smooths Roughness, by thickening the Humours; but its Use is dubious in Spitting of Blood, and Weakness of the Vessels of the Lungs. It is mostly used in Coughs, Pleurisies, Consumptions, Sharpness of Urine, and Excoriation of the Bladder. It gently loosens the Belly of Infants. Some drink its Decoction in Water, with a Stick of Cinnamon, for common Drink; after it has wrought like Ale, it intoxicates as much. In Coughs, and Catarrhs, with only thin Rheum, or [Page 168] a meer Froth, a Tea of Liquorice and Line-seed, thickens the Phlegm, causes Spitting, and cures Hoarseness. This Tea is good in Pains of the Belly, from sharp Humours, Salts, or Bile in the Bowels. A Ptisan of it, Maiden-hair, and Figs, is good in a dry Cough, digests and raises Phlegm, and heals Hoarseness, Wheezing, and Shortness of Breath, from salt Humours falling on the Lungs. This Root cures Ulcers in the Kidnies and Bladder, sharp, or bloody Urine. It is added to most purging Infusions, Decoctions, and Diet Drinks. Its Juice is the best and readiest Preparation; but it may be much improved by dissolving it down in proper Decoctions, and adding several Powders suited to various Intentions, and boiled up again for Use.

179.

LIVER-WORT (Hepatica) is a noble Vulnerary, used either inwardly or outwardly. The green Leaves heal fresh Wounds and Ruptures, if given in a Decoction of Horse-tail. Baptista says, the Powder of the Herb, given some Days, cures Ruptures. It is not only good in Wounds, but its Oil made, either by being set in the Sun in Oil, or a short slight Decoction of the fresh Leaves in Sallad Oil, or unripe Oil Olive, till they are dry and crisp, is good in Swellings and Inflammations. It is a wonderful Plant in all Diseases of the Liver, Spleen, Kidnies, or other Viscera; or in a Saltness or Sharpness of the Blood, in hot Constitutions especially. It cools, cleanses, and helps Heats and Inflammations, Jaundice, and Whites, if boiled in Water, and sweetened. It is excellent to stop the Spreading of Tetters, Runnings, Sores, Ringworms, and Scabs. In these, Hectics, and Peripneumonies, I have often seen its wonderful Effects. Stercus Pavonis [Page 169] is no greater a Specific in a Vertigo; or Juices of Rue, Valerian, and Misletoe, in a recent Epilepsy; or Half a Dram of Powder of Marum Syriac ▪ in Juice of Ground-ivy, snuffed up the Nose for an obstinate Head-ach; or a strong Bathe of Ants and their Eggs, in a Paraplegia; or a Gargle of Woodsage Juice in Loss of Speech; than Lichen terrestris Ciner. cum pulv. Piper. ana P. Ae. is to prevent an Hydrophobia.

180.

LOOSE-STRIFE, or WILLOW HERB ( Lysimachia) stops Bleeding at the Mouth, Nose, or of Wounds. The Juice, dropped in, quickly heals them up. Its Decoction, drank and given in Clysters, stops Fluxes of the Belly and Uterus. It cures Sores in the Mouth or secret Parts. Dried and burnt in a Room, it banishes Flies and Gnats. The distilled Water of the Purple-spiked, especially, is a most effectual present Remedy for Hurts, Blows, or Pricks in the Eyes, which it also clears from Dust, or any thing fallen into them. Make an Ointment of it, May Butter, Wax, and Sugar, it speedily heals all fresh Wounds. Washing with its Water, and applying the Leaves after, cleanses foul Ulcers, and stops Inflammations. The Water, drank, and gargled, is good for a Quinsy and King's-Evil in the Neck; or used warm in a Wash, it takes off fresh Marks of the Small Pox; and drank, quenches Thirst. Boiled with Honey, it is good in Ulcers of the Lungs, Bloody-Flux, and Whites, says Tragus. Mathiolus advises it in Childrens Ruptures.

181.

LOVAGE ( Levisticum) is alexipharmac, diuretic, and vulnerary; strengthens the Stomach, helps an Asthma, expels Menses, Lochia, and Secundine. [Page 170] The powdered Seed brings away the dead Child, resolves tough Phlegm, and eases Pains therefrom. It opens Obstructions of Liver and Spleen, and cures the Jaundice. It is used outwardly in Uterine Bathes, Fomentations, Poultises, Ointments, and Plaisters for Wounds and Ulcers. It comes so near Angelica, and Master-wort, that what is said of one, may serve for another. It helps Digestion, and expels Wind and Flatulency. Half a Dram of the Seed provokes Menses or Sweat. Its Powder is reckoned a Specific to expel the retained After-birth, given in white Wine. It being exceeding heating, and digesting, eases windy Gripes, or Pains in the Stomach or Bowels; therefore some use it instead of Pepper. The Root is good against the Bite of venomous Beasts; and for a Distention of the Belly, from the Menses stopped or ceasing; or in a beginning Dropsy from Flatuses, and Crudities, and in a Stoppage of Urine, whether used in Drink, Poultises, or Epithems.

182.

LUNG-WORT (Pulmonaria) or Sage of Jerusalem, tastes salt and clammy, and is mostly used in Diseases of the Lungs, in Spitting of Blood and purulent Matter, and the Spittle salt. It is also reckoned a Cordial. Outwardly, it is a Vulnerary, cures Wounds, and is allied to Comfry, as a Vulnerary; and to the great Daisy, as a Pulmonary. An useful Syrup may be made of it.

This Pulmonaria grows only in botanick Gardens, and with Care to keep it from sharp Frosts.

183.

MADDER ( Rubia Tinctorum) is used in vulnerary Drinks; it, like Rhubarb, both loosens and binds; from the former it is used for the Jaundice, Dropsy, Obstructions of Urine, and coagulated Blood. On [Page 171] the latter Account, it is used in Excesses of the Menses, Haemorrhoids and Bloody Fluxes. All Dyers Plants, contain very fine Parts, fit to penetrate and open Obstructions; most of them provoke Urine and Menses, and are good for Liver, Spleen, and Jaundice. A rough Taste in Plants denotes their Astringency. Its Decoction is good in the Palsy, Sciatica, Abortion, Bruises, Blows, Falls, &c. The Root is chiefly used both inwardly and outwardly, as in Contusions, with Blackness and Blueness. Its Seed, taken with Vinegar and Honey, is good in Swellings, and Hardness of the Spleen. In a Stoppage of the Menses, a hot Decoction of the Leaves is good to sit over. The Leaves and Roots, beaten and applied, take off Discolourings of the Skin, as Freckles, Morphew, Spots, Scurf, &c. The Root, with the Oil of Turpentine, makes a good Balsam for a Cough, in weak, stuffed, phlegmatic Lungs.

184.

MAIDEN-HAIR (Adiantum) boiled in Wine or Mead, and drank regularly for some Days, cures Obstructions of the Liver, expels the King's-Evil, clears Disorders of the Lungs, is good for Difficulty of Breathing, expels Melancholy by Urine, softens hard Tumours of the Spleen, and promotes the Menses. The Decoction, Syrup, Conserve, or Powder of the Herb, check Fluxes of the Belly, and cool Inflammations of the Liver. Its Decoction hinders Falling off of the Hair, and is good in the Stone, and making Urine by Drops. The dried Herb is best, for, used green, it is laxative, and brings away Choler, and Phlegm; eases the Stomach, Liver, and Lungs; purifies the Blood, and gives a good Colour; and expels Humours that breed Obstructions in the Liver and Spleen. A Decoction of the Herb, in Oil of Camomile, dissolves [Page 172] Kernels, lessens Swellings, and dries up moist Sores. A Lee made of it cleanses the Head [...]rom Scurf, hinders Falling off of the Hair, and makes it grow thick and fair.

185.

WHITE MAIDEN-HAIR, or WALL RUE, is of the same Nature as the other, good in a Cough, Asthma, Pleurisy, Jaundice, and obstructed Spleen. It provokes Urine, and expels Sand, Gravel, and Stone. The Powder, taken forty Days together, helps Childrens Ruptures. It is the Soldier's Panacaea in the Scurvy. It is green all Winter. Infused in Beer, and drank daily, Boyle says it dissolves King's-evil Swellings. A Powder of it, and Couch-grass, Maiden-hair, and a fourth Part of Dog-grass Roots mixed up into an Electuary, with Syrup of the five opening Roots, Dr. Bowle says, is an excellent Remedy for the Rickets. As is a Conserve of the tender Buds of Spleen-wort; or of the Buds of Asparagus; or three Ounces of powdered Osmund-royal Roots, white Sugar an Ounce and an Half, mixed, and two or three Drams of it given daily, in all the Child's Meat; or a Conserve of its Buds, or of Fern Buds; are all most powerful, and specifick Remedies in the Rickets. As is a Decoction of Agrimony, drank thrice a Day, for Ulcers of the Kidneys; or a Decoction of Calamint, in white or Rhenish Wine; or their common Drink; a Decoction of the whole Strawberry Plant, in Water, strain'd and sweetened; or the like Decoction of Tops of St. John's wort, drank to Half a Pint a Day; or Half a Pint of a Decoction of Plantain, in Water, drank Evening and Morning for a Week; are all good for Ulcers in the Kidneys. Formius published a whole Book on Maiden-hair in 1644, wherein he makes it a g [...]neral Remedy.

[Page 173]

186.

MALLOWS, ALCAEA, ABUTILON, KETMIA, &c. are all different Sorts of Mallows, whose Virtues see briefly under Althaea. A Decoction of Mallow tender Buds, or of Milk-wort, or of Mercury, all loosen the Belly; four Ounces of any of their Decoctions, and an Ounce and an Half of Syrup of Violets taken, cure a Dysury, or Pain of making Water with Heat; for which a Conserve of Mallow Flowers, is good; or a Syrup of their Juice, or of Bramble Juice; or a Decoction of Turnips; or Willow, or Lime-tree Ashes; or Juice of Ground-ivy, with Powder of Althaea.

187.

MARJORAM wild ( Origanum) opens and cleanses; it is chiefly used in Obstructions of the Lungs, Liver, and Wombs, of gross phlegmatic Habits; for a Cough, Asthma, or Jaundice; it increases Milk; and, used before Bathing, it purges off Ichorous Humours by Sweat. But it is more used outwardly in Bathes for the Womb, Head, and whole Body, against Itch or Scab. The Herb is biting, aromatic, and detergent; abounds with a volatile, aromatic, oily Salt. It is a diuretic, and diaphoretic Plant, good to cause Spitting, and carries off gross Humours. It is best used in Tea for an Asthma, Cough, and an Indigestion, or a nervous Pleurisy. Washes of its Decoction, used to the Feet, are good in Vapours, Green Sickness, and Palsy. The dried Herb, wrapp'd up warm in a Cloth, and laid to the Head, and Neck, is good for a Crick in the Neck. The Heads and Flowers, taken in Wine, are useful against the Biting of venomous Beasts. Its Decoction drank with a few Cloves, and Sugar, gives great Relief in a Hiccup. A thin [Page 174] Electuary of its Powder, with Salt-petre and Honey, makes the Teeth, often rubb'd with it, whiter, and faster. Its Oil is excessively hot, but, mixed with milder Oils, it may be made a fine Warmer and Strengthener of the Nerves.—The wild Marjoram is the hottest, and Pot Marjoram the mildest of the Class. All of them have the same Virtues, but in different Degrees, according to their Heat. Their Oil is used in Poultises and Ointments for cold Swellings, Laxness, Weakness, Pains, Numbness, and Stiffness, &c. from Cold; and in Bathes and Fomentations for the same Intentions.

188.

SWEET MARJORAM (Majorana) is of subtile small Parts; of an aromatic, lively, and quick Taste and Smell; warms, dries, attenuates, and digests. Taken in any Form it relieves the cold Distempers of the Head and Brain. The powdered Herb is a Sternutatory, brings away much Phlegm, and strengthens the Brain. The Juice of the Leaf, snuffed up the Nose, does the same. It is good in Disorders of the Breast, strengthens the Stomach, and relieves the disordered Liver and Spleen. It is proper in Diseases of the Womb, and expels Wind. Taken in Drink, it provokes Urine, and sends off watery Humours. If chew'd, or laid to the Tooth, it eases the Tooth-ach. A Handful of it, and Half a Dram of white Hellebore, boiled in six Ounces of Water to four, strained, and the Decoction snuffed up the Nose, from the Hollow of the Hand (the Mouth being full of Water) often, is an excellent Errhine in a violent, but not mild Head-ach. A Decoction of the simple Herb may be used the same Way for a Catarrh, but drawn much higher up the Nose, by having the Mouth full of Water, [Page 175] and stopping one Nostril, while it is snuffed up the other. A Decoction of this, with Pellitory of Spain, and Long Pepper, used in a Gargle, recovers lost Speech. Its Oil strengthens, and warms the Nerves much. The Herb is used in odoriferous Waters, Powders, &c. for Ointments, and Pleasure. Pot Marjoram being milder, and not so bitter, is scarce used in Physick, but chiefly in the Kitchen to relish Meat, help cold Stomachs, and expel Wind.

189.

MAUDLIN. (Ageratum) See Costmary or Alecost, their Virtues being alike; as are those of Chervil and sweet Cicely. It provokes Urine. Its Decoction cures the Bite of Spiders. It expels Menses and Lochia. Boiled with Honey, and eaten, it is good in Consumptions, and cleanses the Breast from thick Phlegm and Humours. Its Decoction in Wine, drank twice or thrice a Day, preserves from the Plague; for which Disease, and the Falling Sickness, there was formerly an Extract of the Herb kept in the Shops. Its Root may be used against Contagion, instead of the Carline Root. The whole Plant is good in a Cachexy and Asthma. The Decoction purges the Blood; it is diuretic, dissolves tough and thick Matter in the urinary Passages. The Juice is good for Bruises. A Poultise of it boiled in Butter-Milk, is the chief Ripener. The powdered Herb, given often, cures pissing the Bed.

190.

MARYGOLD ( Calendula) Flowers, are Cordial, Cephalic, Alexipharmac, provoke Sweat, expel Measles, and Birth. The Water dropped into the Eyes, or Cloths dipped in it, and laid on, cure [Page 176] their Redness and Inflammations. A Decoction of the Flowers, used in Posset Drink, has been long taken as a safe Expulsive in the Measles and Small Pox. The cut Flowers, eaten in a Sallad, with Oil and Vinegar, are an Antidote against the Plague; and, for Cure, an Ounce or two of the Juice of the Flowers drank fasting, and Sweat after it, this powerfully expels the Poison of the Plague. Their Conserve is also excellent in this Case, or their Vinegar used to the Wrists, Temples, and Nostrils. The Juice of these Flowers, or of Celandine, rubbed often on Warts, certainly cures them. The Leaves in a Bathe, hasten the Birth. The following was an ingenious Gentleman's Method in the Want of Expulsives of Small Pox and Measles: Take Claret and Vinegar, of each four Ounces; Ale and Milk of each Half a Pound; make a Posset, and to the clear Whig, or Whey, add Marygold Flowers a Dram; (more if green) Butterbur Root one Ounce; Grains of Kermes, two Drams; Cochineal, a Scruple; Saffron, Half a Scruple; boil all an Hour in a close Vessel, strain; Dose from one to three Ounces thrice a Day; boil the strained out Ingredients in their common Drink, and give. It proved most successful. The green tender Herb loosens the Belly, the dry binds it. The bruised Leaves, or Colewort Juice, put up the Nose, are good Errhines.

191.

MASTER-WORT (Imperatoria) Root has a very hot Taste; it is opening and thinning, prevents Poison, and provokes Sweat; it wonderfully discusses Flatuses of the Bowels, and Uterus; hence its notable Service in flatulent Cholics, in which Hoffman calls it a divine Remedy, beyond Angelica, and Zedoary. Its chief Uses are in contagious, maglignant Diseases, the Bites of venomous Creatures, in resolving [Page 177] and expectorating the thick Phlegm of the Lungs, in correcting a stinking Breath, in phlegmatic Diseases of the Head, as Palsey, Apoplexy, Lethargy, &c. in Crudities of the Stomach, Cholic, and Quartan Ague, by taking Half a Spoonful of the Powder in Wine, before the Fit comes on; go to Bed, and repeat it before each Fit, for several Times. Hoffman says, in Dropsies, Quartans, and all long Fevers, it has not a Fellow. Either a Gargle made of it, or a Piece of the Root, put into, or between the Teeth, cures the Tooth-ach, by drawing out Plenty of sharp Rheum. Its Fumigation is good in Catarrhs, Tumours, and Nephritics. As it resembles, so it comes very near Angelica in Virtues, but is stronger. Its Lotion is good for the Scab of the Head, for inveterate Tetters (being first anointed with Lard) and drawing forth extraneous Things out of Wounds. Its Powder and Decoction cure the Cramp, and all Diseases of the Nerves, from cold Causes. They also cure the Cholic, Asthma, and Hysterics, from that Origin. From the Warmth and Subtilty of its Parts, it penetrates notably, and cleanses, and is a most powerful searching Remedy; hence it cures cold Stomachs and Bowels, hastens the Menses, and promotes Fruitfulness. Its Decoction in Wine, drank Morning and Evening, is good against all cold Rheums, Distillations on the Lungs, and Shortness of Breath. It provokes Urine, expels Gravel, Sand, and dead Foetus; and is good for Vapours. The Decoction of the Root in Wine revives the almost extinct Inclination and Ability to Venery; but Galen contradicts Tragus in this. What grows wild in hot Countries, contains more Salt and Oil, than what is produced in our Gardens. It has also much the same Virtues as Lovage, but stronger; it burns the Mouth like Fire. A Tea of the Root is [Page 178] proper for cold, phlegmatic Constitutions. Its distilled Water, Conserve, and Spirit, are all good. The fresh Roots sliced, and hung about the Neck, are good in a Quinsy. The Water or Spirit, dropped into green Wounds, or rotten Ulcers, though spreading, and tending to a Gangrene, heals them up. It should always be in Fomentations for Mortifications.

MASTER-WORT. I have not observed it to grow in any of our Provinces.

192.

MEADOW-SWEET (Ulmaria) is a Sudorific, and Alexipharmac, good in all Kinds of Fluxes, Loosenesses, Bloody Flux, Excess of the M [...]ses, and Spitting of Blood. It resists the Plague, pestilential, malignant, and contagious Diseases. An Infusion of the Leaves, in Wine or Ale, gives them a most grateful Smell and Taste, like Burnet. The Flowers have a pleasant Smell, revive the Heart, put into Mead, and give it the Flavour of Malvatic Wine. Sim. Pauli says, he saw a mortal like Wound in the Bladder of a Maid, and another almost incurable Fracture of the Arm, cured by this Herb. It is therefore justly esteemed a Vulnerary, and such as Wurtz preferred to all other vulnerary Plants whatever, for fractured Bones. It is said to alter and take away the Fits of Quartans, and to chear the Heart. Boiled in Wine, it relieves them that are troubled with the Cholic. Its Decoction drank warm, with a little Honey, opens the Belly. The Infusion or Decoction of the Root in Wine, drank, cures excessive Menses, purging, or spitting of Blood, if daily drank for some Time; and this should always be observed in the Use of all astringent, vulnerary, diaphoretic, and alexipharmac Herbs, that we expect Benefit from. Tauvry says, a Dram of the Extract of the Root taken, and repeated several Times, is good in malignant Fevers; [Page 179] and its Decoction is better than that of Scorzonera. It is good for the Botts in Horses. Applied outwardly, it heals old Ulcers, though cancerous, eating, or fistulous; and Sores of the Mouth, or privy Parts, if used in Gargle, or Lotion. Its Water is good for Heats, or Inflammations of the Eyes.

MEADOW-SWEET. I have not yet seen it grow, though I have often endeavoured to raise it.

193.

MEDLARS (Mespilus) answer the Purposes of Service Berries, against Vomiting, Dysentery, and all other Fluxes. If the Mouth and Throat be washed with the Decoction of the unripe Fruit, it hinders Defluxions on the Jaws, Teeth, and Gums. Green Medlars, eaten freely, have cured many of Fluxes▪ says Forestus, when all other Things have failed. They and Quinces are Specifics in epidemic Fluxes, but Rhubarb, or a Vomit, should always be first used.

194.

MELILOT or KING'S CLOVER ( Melilotus) gently resolves, digests, softens, and eases Pain; it is therefore used in digesting, and resolving Plaisters, Poultises, &c. Two Handfuls of this, one of Betony, two of Pellitory, boiled in Water, and strained, make a noble Fomentation for the Breast in a Pleurisy; it may be repeated. A Ptisan of it and Camomile, drank, is good in Inflammations of the lower Belly, Cholic, Retention of Urine, Rheumatism, or wherever it is necessary to facilitate the Course of the Humours by Lenifying. Melilot is used in Carminative and Emollient Clysters, lenient and resolving Poultises. If for the former, the Flowers of [...] Camomile, boiled in Tripe Broth, strain'd, and a little Oil of Anise, or Cummin may be added, and injected: For the latter, take two Roots of [...]hi [...]e Lillies, a Handful of Hemlock and [Page 180] Henbane Leaves, and three Pugils of Melilot Tops; boil all in Water to a Consistence, put a little Oil of Tartar to it, mix and apply. The Juice or the Infusion of the Flowers, in boiling Water, with a little strain'd camphorated Spirits of Wine, abates the Inflammation of the Eyes. The Herb consists of subtile Parts; which makes its Plaisters proper after Blisters, to prevent Mortification. Nothing exceeds a Fomentation of its Decoction with Foenugreek Seed, in after Pains, which threaten an Inflammation of the Uterus; and indeed it is a Specific in all Inflammations of the privy Parts of both Sexes. And in Inflammations, or Swellings of the Uterus, Reins, or Hypochondries, What outward Application can equal, far less exceed that excellent Plaister communicated by Sim. Pauli from Jacob Fabricius? Which is this: Take Melilot ten Ounces; Camomile eight Ounces; Althaea Root, and Foenugreek Seed, of each six Ounces; of white crude Tartar, three Ounces; dry Figs, twenty Ounces; Spring Water, twenty-four Pints; infused twenty-four Hours, in a close earthen Vessel; then strain, and boil up to the Consistence of an Extract: Take of this Extract twelve Ounces; Wax, and Sheep's Suet, four Ounces; purified Gum ammoniac, three Ounces; Turpentine, two Drams; Oil of Bay, six Drams; express'd Oil of Nutmeg, three Drams; Oil of Carraway Seed, and of its distilled Spirit, each two Ounces; fine Powder of Melilot Flowers, Zedoary, Blessed Thistle, Roots of Iris, Florentine, each one Ounce; mix, and make a Plaister. But, for a Pleurisy, he recommended the following Fomentation; Take Melilot, Pellitory of the Wall, or true Pellitory, each two Hand [...]uls; Betony, a Handful; Marsh-mallows, a Handful and an Half; Camomile Flowers Half a Handful; mix, boil in Water, and use [Page 181] to the Breast. He advises, that wherever we meet with Melilot and Foenugreek absolutely, in Authors, only their Seeds are understood. A Fomentation of a Decoction of Melilot, Agrimony, and Camomile, is best for the Anus inflamed, except it is from some sharp Things applied to it, then use a Fomentation of new Milk. For the Legs inflamed, a Fomentation of Melilot may be used; but the Leaves of Elder, warmed in a Frying-Pan till they begin to sweat, then applied like a Poultise; or a Poultise of Oats boiled in strong Wine, and laid on; or the warm Juice of Plantain, rubbed on, are much better, says Stockerus: Who says, that, for Ulcers on the Legs, Powder of burnt Horse Radish Root, sprinkled on, cleanses and heals the moist Sort. As Etmuller extols, as a Specific, a Decoction of Self-heal, with Salt Prunella, used for a Gargle in Inflammations of the Tonsils; for whose Ulcers, Grulingus commends the Gargle of boil'd Vervain often used: Who also orders a Poultise of Dwarf Elder, and Rue Leaves, to be applied to inflamed Testicles.

195.

ENGLISH MERCURY, GOOD HENRY, or ALL GOOD. (Bonus Henricus, Lapathum unctuosum) The Root is drying and cleansing, the Herb mollifying and loosening inwardly. Sim. Pauli says, it makes an excellent Discussive, Digestive, and Anodyne Poultise for gouty Pains, thus: Take of the fresh Leaf without the Flowers, five Handfuls; dried Flowers of Elder and Camomile, of each two Handfuls; boil to a Mucilage in Elder Water, then mix Powder of Gum Caranna, and Camphire, of each Half an Ounce; make a Poultise, and apply. The Leaf, laid on Wounds or Sores, cleanses their Foulness, heals and closes them up wonderfully.

I believe there are none of this or the following Kinds of Mercury in our Provinces.

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FRENCH MERCURY, MALE and FEMALE, (Mercurialis Mas et Foemina) Their Leaves and Juice are taken in Broth, or drank with a little Sugar to purge Choler, and watery Humours. Hippocrates extols them in Womens Diseases. Applied to the privy Parts, he says, they ease hysteric Pains. Its Decoction, drank, expels Menses, and After-birth; a Stove or Fomentation of them does the same. He applied the Leaves outwardly for Diseases of the Reins and Bladder, and for sore and watery Eyes; and for Deafness, and Pains of the Ears, by dropping its Juice into them, and then bathing them with white Wine. The Leaves, boiled in Chicken Broth, are good against hot Fits of the Ague. They [...]leanse the Breast and Lungs from Phlegm, but offend the Stomach. The Juice snuffed up the Nose, purges the Head of Rheum. A Glass of the [...]istilled Water, drank fasting, with a little Sugar, [...]urges viscous and melancholy Humours. The Leaves or Juice, often rubbed on Warts, take them [...]way. The Juice, mixed with Vinegar, helps all running Sores, Tetters, Itch, &c. Applied in a Poultise, it digests and spends the Humours, and eases the Inflammation. Given in a Clyster, it cleanses the Guts, as well as a Decoction of Senna. Seeds of Male and Female Mercury, boiled with Wormwood, cure the yellow Jaundice speedily, says Mathiolus. Superstitious People formerly believed, that if breeding Women used the Herb inwardly or outwardly, for three Days together, after Conception, and the Menses stayed, they should bring forth Children, Male or Female, as was the Sort of Mercury used. Dog Mercury is seldom used, but answers the same Purposes as the French.

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197.

WOOD MERCURY, or DOG MERCURY ( Cynocrambe) is more purgative, and often vomits. I have heard of a Dose of it taken, that caused a Superpurgation and Death; and others have used it with very good Success. Horstius commends the following Clyster in the Stone, Cholic, and Hypochondriac Melancholy: Take Mecury, Althaea, Agrimony, and Betony, of each two Handfuls; Pennyroyal, Marjoram, Bayberries, of each a Handful; Senna one Ounce; Camomile Flowers Half a Handful; boil to a Pound and strain; add common Oil, three Ounces; Salt, a Dram or two; mix and inject. The Mercuries are rareley used inwardly, but only externally. It and Beet Roots, boiled in Broth, loosen the Belly, if eaten an Hour before Dinner.

198.

MILLEFOIL or YARROW ( Millefolium) being very Astringents, stop Blood and Fluxes from any Part, as from Wounds, Nose, Mouth, Stool, Uterus, or by Urine or Piles. It is also good in Vomiting, Retention of Urine; Stone, Gravel, Whites, &c. Applied outwardly, it is good in the Head-ach, in the Cure of Wounds, Piles, Ruptures, Tumours of the Yard, &c. It is so great a Diuretic, that it causes bloody Urine, and its Leaf or Juice put up the Nose, make it bleed. It is the rough, harsh Millefoil, that is the Astringent; and the bitter, says Hoffman, that is the Aperient, which opens Obstructions, and dissolves. It expels Urine, and kills Worms. Its Decoction, drank, prevents Abortion. Its Juice clears the Redness and Bloodiness of the Eyes. A Draught of the Decoction before the Ague Fit, three or four times, cures it, and helps Incontinence of Urine. The [Page 184] Juice, drank in Goats Milk, cures the Whites. The Powder of the dried Herb and Flowers cures bloody Urine. A Bag of the Herb, worn on the Stomach, is vouched to cure Agues. Its Root, chew'd in the Mouth, cures the Tooth-ach. It is so eminent a Vulnerary, that Hollerius tells of a Rustic who had his Nose almost cut off; he had the loose hanging down Part quickly put up, joined to the other, and, with the Herb bruised in a little black Wine, he bound it clumsily on, the Blood was quickly stopped, and the Wound cured with a pretty Scar. The bruised Herb, with a little Cobweb, speedily cures Wounds.

199.

MINT, SPEAR MINT, GARDEN MINT, and MINTS ( Mentha) Its Infusion or Decoction is greatly used in Weakness, and Crudity of the Stomach, Heavings or Vomitings, Hiccup, Windiness and burning Heats, &c. in Ostructions of the Liver, Griping of the Guts, and Swimming of the Head. It cures [...] Menses, and Fluor Albus. It eases Childrens G [...]es, strengthens the Brain and Memory, and checks immoderate venereal Desires; restores a lost Appetite and Digestion; it warms and promotes Perspiration much; for all which its Tea, Infusion, Decoction, distilled Water or Powder, are chiefly used. Applied outwardly it takes away the Hardness of the Breasts, Curdling of the Milk, and cures Head-achs. The Leaves, steeped in Milk, hinder its Curdling for Cheese. It hinders the Curdling on the Stomachs of Infants, tender, sick, and weak Persons. Two Ounces of the Water, drank, and repeated as often as is necessary, or as much of the Tea of dried Mint, often stop the severest Vomitings; for which it is the next Succedaneum to Riverius's [Page 185] Salt Mixture, and Opiates, which very rarely fail. For Loss of Appetite and Loathing, an Elixir of Mint, with its own Spirit by Infusion, with a little Sugar, is a good Remedy. Borellus gives it as a Secret, that if Women, reputed barren, will, as soon as their Menses are over, apply a Cake made of wild Horse Mint to their private Parts, in the Form of a Crown, presently before Coition with their Husbands, and keep easy both in Body and Mind, they will soon conceive. A Poultise of Mint, Rue, and Carraway Seeds, boiled in Vinegar, dissolves coagulated Milk in the Breasts. Black or red Water Mint, in Tea, or its Infusion in Beer or Wine, &c. is stronger, and more stomachic, than Spear Mint; therefore preferred by such whose Stomachs can bear it. But Pepper Mint Water has a far more agreeable Smell, and pleasanter Taste; it is now in great Repute in private Families; it is an excellent Dram, and upbraids not the Drinker; it is hot in the Mouth, and warms the Stomach; but in two or three Minutes after it is drank, the Mouth feels cold, hath little Taste of Mint, and feels as it were glazed over with Oil. Its distilled Water, if clear and fine, is so much worse, having its Oil separated from it; but that which is whitish and muddy, has the Oil mixed with it. It is an admirable Water against Surfeits, in Digestion, Flatulency, Belchings, Loathing, Palling of the Stomach, Gripes and Cholic, &c. Juice of Spear Mint, taken with Vinegar, stays Bleeding; it kills Worms, even the round Sort, says Dioscorides. In a Poultise with Barley-meal, it dissolves Imposthumes. The Juice with Mead eases Pains in the Ears. Its Decoction used for a Wash cures Eruptions on the Skin, yea Ulcers on Childrens Heads, and heals Chaps in the Anus. It is good against Poison of venomous Creatures.

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CALA-MINT ( Calamintha) whose Leaf (for the Root is never used) consists of very subtile, volatile Parts; it is more hot and pungent than Mint. It is chiefly used for the Stomach and Uterus. It provokes Urine and Menses, opens Obstructions of the Liver, and is good in a Cough; and whether it be infused in Wine, or its Powder drank in Wine, it discusses Flatuses. Some use it for Shortness of Breath, bilious Gripes in the Belly and Stomach, and for the yellow Jaundice: Taken in Wine it stays Vomiting; or with Honey and Salt, drank in Whey, kills Worms in the Belly. A Poultise of the Herb, or Juice applied, cures the Leprosy. A Pessary of it brings down the Menses. A Decoction of the green Herb in Wine, the Liquor used in a Fomentation, and the boiled Herb applied in a Poultise, cures black and blue Marks of the Skin and Face. Its Decoction drank, and a Poultise of the fresh Herb, applied daily for some Time, cures the Sciatica. Its Juice, dropped into the Ears, kills Worms there. Its Decoction in Wine, drank, provokes Sweat, and opens Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen. After the Body has been duly purged, the Use of this Herb cures Tertians. Its Decoction, drank with Sugar, helps the Overflowing of the Gall, old Coughs, Shortness of Breath, Hardness of the Spleen, or cold Disorders of the Bowels; for which Disorders, its Infusion, Syrup, Decoction, or Juice, are good. The low Cala-mint is very Opening, Cleansing, and Vulnerary; it expels Urine and Gravel; it is best taken in Broth and powdered Sugar, or in its own distilled Water. It is taken in Broth and Ptisans by consumptive People, and such as make purulent Urine; it heals Ulcers. It is used in Extract, Syrup, Conserve, [Page 187] &c. Cala-mint, Lady's Mantle, or Agrimony, boiled in red Wine, or their Powders drank in red Wine, are good in a Diabetes. Cala-mint is also good for the Cramp, for which Parkinson commends a Decoction of fresh or dried Roots of Elecampane in Spring Water, to foment the Parts; or Verjuice rubbed warm on the Parts. Boyle recommends Tops of Rosemary.

CALA-MINT. We have not this Species growing in our Provinces; but some Botanists think our Dittany a Species of it.

201.

CAT-MINT ( Nepeta) is aromatic, acrid, bitter, hot, and dry; contains small and subtile Parts; thins and opens. It is chiefly used in Diseases of the Uterus, as obstructed Menses, Barrenness, cutting thick Phlegm in the Lungs, &c. It is mostly drank in Tea, or infused in Wine. Its Root chewed, Hoffman says, makes mild Men fierce. Cats will destroy it, if not well fenced with Thorns.

202.

MISTLETOE ( Viscum) is reckoned a Specific in the Falling Sickness, Apoplexy, and Vertigo, either in Powder, Decoction, or hung about the Neck as an Amulet. That of the Oak, from the Superstition of the Druids, has been most esteemed; others prefer that of the Hasle. Dr. Bowle says, the Powder taken several times in Carduus, and Poppy Water, is a Secret in Pleurisies. Some give it for Worms, others for Quartans. The Powder or Juice of its Berries, strained into Oil, and drank, gives present Relief in severe Stitches. There is a Birdlime made of it, which made into a Plaister with Rosin and a little Wax, ripens Swellings in the Groin, hard Tumours behind the Ears, or other hard Imposthumes. With Frankincense it softens old Ulcers and Imposthumes. Sir John Colebatch wrote a Treatise on its Usefulness in the Epilepsy.

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MONEY-WORT, or HERB TWO-PENCE (Nummularia) is drying and astringent, a chief Vulnerary. The Leaves and Flowers, bruised and laid on Wounds or Ulcers of any Sort, cure them; or, taken in Wine, it cures Bloody Fluxes, Weakness of the Stomach and Belly, Rheums, and Humidity, excessive Menses, all internal Wounds and Ulcers, especially of the Lungs. It is a good Antiscorbutic; but taken in Powder, and used outwardly in Ointment, it is chiefly intended for Childrens Ruptures.

MONEY-WORT. I believe this Species does not grow in any of our Provinces.

204.

MOON-WORT THE GREATER ( Lunaria Major) especially the Seeds, are acrid and bitter. The Roots are used in Sallads. It warms moderately, cleanses, and is diuretic. The powdered Seed given in Lime-flower, or black Cherry Waters, is good in the Epilepsy. The Leaves, with Sanicle, make a good Ointment for Wounds, Moon-wort, with a Stockgilly Flower Leaf, and a larg [...] oblong Pod, is Dioscorides's Mad-wort; which taken in Wine, Broth, Meat, or any other Way, cures the Poison of the Bite of a mad Dog. The Poultise is also useful in other Cases, where Drying, Digesting, and Cleansing are required, and thereby clears the Skin from Spots and Discolouring. Taken in Drink it cures the Hiccup, if not from an Ague. It is also good for Wounds, dissolves coagulated Blood, cleanses and heals old filthy Ulcers, and creeping Cankers.

LUNARIA MAJOR. Grows with us only in curious Gardens.

205.

LESSER MOON-WORT ( Lunaria Minor) is more cooling and drying than Adder's-tongue; therefore [Page 189] more vulnerary, both inwardly and outwardly. A Decoction of the Leaves in red Wine, drank, stops Womens Courses, Whites, Bleeding, Vomiting, and Looseness; cures Bruises, Hurts, Falls, broken or dislocated Bones, Sprains, and Ruptures. But it is mostly esteemed and used for Liniments, Oils, Balsams, and Salves, to heal inward or outward green Wounds.

LUNARIA MINOR. This Species, I have not observed to grow in our Provinces; but we have one Plant, that modern Botanists take to be a Species of it.

206.

MOTHER-WORT ( Cardiaca) provokes Urine and Menses, cleanses the Breast from cold Phlegm oppressing it; kills Worms in the Belly, warms and dries up cold Humours; digests and discusses such as are settled in any P [...]rt; cures Cramps and Convulsions. Its Tea, Decoction, or Powder, are most beneficial in Palpitation of the Heart, Spleen, Hysterics, and Hypo; for, in Diseases of the Heart and Hypo, it is of great Efficacy; it warms, dries, thins, and discusses. A Spoonful of the Powder, drank in Wine, wonderfully helps Women in Labour, or in Suffocations of the Womb.

207.

MOUSE-EAR ( Pilosella) is rather too astringent and drying; it cures Wounds, and causes Sneezing. It is added to vulnerary Decoctions, Drinks, Plaisters, and Ointments. It is said to be most powerful against the Stone. After proper Evacuation it is excellent against the Bloody Flux, or Loosenesses of the Belly or Uterus. It stays bilious Vomitings, and cures Childrens Ruptures. Some use it for a beginning Jaundice or Dropsy. The Powder blown into the Nose stops its Bleeding. Lemery says, its Root is good in a Fistula Lacrymalis. Bauhinus says, a Conserve of the large flowered hairy Field Mouse-ear is good in the Falling [Page 190] Sickness; and that the outward Application of its Leaves is good in a Palsy.

208.

MUG-WORT ( Artemisia) says Tournefort, besides several acid Liquors, affords some volatile, concrete, and very lixivial fixed Salts, with much Sulphur and Earth. Schroder calls it Uterine; it expels Menses, Birth, and After-birth, and cleanses off Filth, whether used inwardly or outwardly in Bath, Fumes, or Lotions. Its Decoction, with Sugar and Honey, eases a Cough, and wastes the Stone. Three Drams of the Powder drank in Wine, says Parkinson, is an excellent Remedy in the Sciatica; especially if a little Gum Guajac, Camphire, and Snake Root, be added to the Powder, and the following Liniment used o [...]twardly, every Morning, at the same Time: Take bruised Ants Eggs, Half an Ounce; Castile Soap, an Ounce and a Half; best Brandy, six Ounces; pound the first two well together in a Mortar; then mix with the Brandy over a Chafing-dish of Coals, and make a Liniment; Camphire and Opium may be add [...]d. I know of no outward Application, near so effe [...] tual. It has cured those that have been some Years Bed-rid, and under the most distracting Pains, and their Thighs and Legs emaciated; and why may it not be as successful in other arthritic Pains, if tried for a Month? ^* A large Dose of Mug-wort, or its [Page 191] Juice, is said to be an Antidote to too great a Quantity of Opium taken. A Bath of its Decoction is a present Remedy for weary Travellers, (and so is a Bath of warm Water.) It quickly takes off all Fatigue; or the Herb put into their Boots, or Shoes, prevents or eases Weariness much. When the Nerves are shattered by flatulent Cramps, racking Pains, or great Fatigue, especially after malignant, or very tedious Diseases, Sim. Pauli says, he never knew a better Remedy than a Bath of the Decoction of Mug-wort, Agrimony, Sage, Camomile, and beaten Wheat. Baptista says, that on Midsummer Day, there is like a large Coal under the Root of Mug-wort, which taken up, and h [...]ng about the [Page 192] Neck, is an Amulet against the Epilepsy. Some, only by a Fumigation of the dried Herb, have found Benefit in oedematous or white Swellings. An Ointment of it, and Field Daisies, discusses Wens, hard Knots, and Kernels about the Neck and Throat. A Tea of it, and Feverfew, drank, is good in Female Disorders, and in Nervous Complaints, with wild Valerian Root, &c. Ambrose Parey says, that a Scruple of Mug-wort Ashes, boiled in Water, vomits, purges, and sweats. Tauvry says, that the Coal under the Root, burnt and powdered on St John's Day, cures the Epilepsy. And Etmuller says, that Frogs-livers dried in the Sun, on Cole-wort Leaves, powdered and given, do the same. Dr. Po says, an Ounce of Mug-wort Juice, and Half an Ounce of Scordium Juice, Powders of Arum Root, Antimony, Ceruse, Frankincense, Acacia, of each a Dram, all beaten in a leaden Mortar, mix, and anoint, it cures Tetters. The red Mug-wort is much preferable to the green, for Fineness of Parts, and Use. If a Goose is stuffed and roasted with it, the Meat will be very tender.

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MULBERRY-TREE ( Morus) the dry unripe Fruit of the black, cools, dries, and binds much, therefore good in Loosenesses, Bloody Fluxes, Coeliaca, excesses of the Menses, Spitting of Blood; and outwardly in Inflammations and Ulcers of the Mouth, and Jaws. The ripe Fruit eaten before Dinner loosens the Belly, but taken after Meat, it corrupts quickly, and is hurtful to the Stomach. The Berries quench Thirst, and excite an Appetite. Not only the Fruit, but the whole Tree, has something in it both loosening and binding; but the Bark of the Root is most loosening; it is a little bitter, and kills broad Worms. A Gargle of the Leaves, or of Leaves and Bark boiled, is good for the Tooth-ach. They and Oil make a good Ointment for Burns. A Syrup of the Berries allays Thirst and Heat in Fevers much, and is very effectual for Inflammations, Pustules, and little Ulcers of the Mouth, Throat, and all those Parts. Some use the Juice for the Bite of Serpents, and the Eating of Night-shade. The Leaves with Vinegar are good to lay on Burns. The Leaves of Mulberry, Vine, and early Fig-tree, boiled in rain Water, are good to wash the Hair, and make it clear and fair. If the naked Root have a little Slit cut in it, and a small Hole made in the Ground about the Slit, in the Harvest Time, a Juice comes out of the Tree, which being hardened, next Day is good for the Tooth-ach, and to dissolve Knots, and purge the Belly. The Leaves check Bleeding in any Part of the Body, as at Wounds, Nose, Mouth, Piles, &c. A Twig of the Tree tied to a Woman's Arm, at full Moon, restrains the excessive Flux of her Menses. The Leaves, steeped in Urine, take Hair off the Skin.

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210.

MULLEIN MALE. (Tapsus Barbatus, Verbascum) The Leaves are of a saltish, styptic Taste, and smell like Elder. A Decoction of the Herb, drank, is good for the Cholic. If boiled in Milk, it is good for a Tenesmus and Piles. Boiled in Blacksmith's Trough Water, and two Cup-fulls of it drank daily, Clysters injected, and Fomentations of it used at the same time, cure the Bloody Flux, and other involuntary and expensive Losses of Blood; in which Cases, some add Oak Leaves and Silver-weed to it. Aloes dissolved in a Decoction of this, then boiled up to an Extract, it either irritates the Piles, or causes Loss of Blood, which often makes its Use dangerous. Its distilled Water cures Burns, St Anthony's Fire, Gout, and all Disorders of the Skin. a Poultise of the Leaves, Leek Tops, and Crumbs of Bread, is good for pained and swelled Piles. Some esteem the Herb a Specific for the Cure of a Tympany; others will have it to be chiefly intended for Diseases of the Breast; as Cough, Blood-spitting, and to heal Gripes of the Belly. Ray says, its Leaves, worn some Days between the Feet and Stocking Soals, gently promote the Menses. Its Decoction, drank, is good in Ruptures and Cramps. A Fumigation of the Seeds and Flowers, with Camomile Flowers, and powdered Turpentine, thrown on live Coals in a Chafing-dish, set in a Close-stool; and such as are troubled with the Piles, Falling down of the Anus, Bleeding Haemorrhoids, bloody Flux, or Tenesmus, set over it, find it very beneficial. An Oil or Ointment, made of the Flowers, is good for the Piles. The Root boiled in red Wine, or Water wherein Steel was often quenched, is good for a Flux, and takes off Stoppages of Water. A Decoction [Page 195] of its Leaves, and of Sage, Marjoram, and Camomile Flowers, is a good Bath for any Part of the Body that is stiff with Cramp or Cold. Three Ounces of its Flower Water, drank Evening and Morning, for some Days together, is good in the hot Gout. The Juice of the Leaf and Flower, or the Powder of the dried Roots rubb'd on, takes away rough (but not smooth) Warts. The powdered Flowers are good for Gripes and Belly-ach. A Decoction of Roots and Leaves, is good for Swellings of the Neck, and Inflammations of the Throat. A Poultise of Seed and Leaves, boiled in Wine, draws out of the Flesh Thorns, Splinters, &c. eases the Pain, and cures the Part. The bruised Leaves wrapped in wet Paper, and roasted under hot Embers, and laid to any Blotch or Boil in the Groin, dissolves and heals it. The Seed boiled in Wine, and applied to any lately dislocated, and new reduced Joint, takes away Swelling and Pain presently. A Poultise of Leaves and Flowers of white Mullein, boiled in Water, and applied, eases the Gout Pain. The bruised Leaves, bound on a Horse's Foot that is prick'd in Shoeing, heals it surprizingly in a little Time. The Juice rubb'd on, and Poultises of the Leaves laid to any Bruise, quickly dissolve the clotted Blood, and take away the blue and black Colour of the Part. As do the bruised Leaves of Cud-weed, boiled in Oil, and applied; or bruised Chervil Leaves laid warm to the Place, &c.

211.

MUSTARD-SEED (Sinapi) is an eminent Stomachic, Diaphoretic, Antiscorbutic, and Antihydropic. It is a good Medicine in the Hypo, Green-sickness, Cachexy, and sleepy Disorders. Chew'd fasting in a Morning, it is good for such [Page 196] as are in Danger of an Apoplexy. It recovers a flagged Appetite, restores a true Taste of Meat, cures Loathing and Squeamishness (except from Whetting, Dramming, or habitual Drinking.) It causes Sneezing, and penetrates most powerfully into the Head, and Brain, proper therefore in Epileptic, and Hysteric Fits, Lethargic Drowsiness, Paralytic and Apoplectic Disorders. It provokes Urine and Menses; stimulates to Venery, prevents Ague Fits, removes Catarrhs, cures Hoarseness, expectorates tough Phlegm, discusses Swellings, purges the Head, expels Worms, cleanses the Viscera from Obstructions, carries off viscid, tough, slimy Humours, out of the Intestines, if taken with Vinegar, but Sugar contradicts these Designs. Bruised Seed, drank with Vinegar, is a great Antiscorbutic, especially in Sieges, when from unwholsome and uncommon Foods there comes a Difficulty of Breathing, Rottenness of the Gums, Blackness and Looseness of the Teeth, &c. A large Dose taken in warm Wine three Hours before the Fit, and repeated several Times, cures Quartans. An Ounce or two of the bruised Seed, infused in a Quart of Sack or white Wine Whey, and drank freely (after necessary Evacuations) is of special Use in the Palsy, Lethargy, Epilepsy, Hysterics, Apoplexy, Dropsy, and Loss of Speech. The Seeds dissolve Tumours, digest Abscesses, &c. The Seed, bruised and laid on Cupping with Scarification, is good to raise the Sick out of an Apoplexy, Palsy, or Lethargy; or to redden the Skin, to draw out the Humours that lie deep. Leeks minced small, fried in Vinegar, spread on a Cloth, and Mustard-seed sprinkled on it, and applied to any Part pained with the Rheumatism, is very resolutive; or a Poultise of Turpentine, Pidgeons Dung, and this Seed laid to the Gout, or to the Jaws in a [Page 197] violent Tooth-ach, is good; but, if too much Mustard Seed is put to them, they will blister. It is also good to apply to the Hip, in a Sciatica. This Seed is an Antidote to Mushrooms, and to the Sting or Bite of venomous Creatures. An Electuary of it excites Venery. It is good for the Liver, Spleen, and gnawing Pain of the Bowels. A Gargle of it helps the Falling down of the Uvula. Its Poultise dissolves schrophulous Tumours about the Neck. It is often used as a Blister to draw forth deep Pains, as in the Gout, Sciatica, Joints, Sides, Loins, Shoulders, Arms, Legs, or Thighs. The Seed, applied with Honey, dissolves coagulated Blood, and takes off Roughness or Scabbiness of the Skin. The chymical Oil provokes the Menses powerfully, and is an Antihisteric.

212.

HEDGE MUSTARD (Erysimum) Seed and Herb, warm, dry, attenuate, open, and expectorate; is good in very thick Phlegm of the Lungs, and obstinate Coughs. Outwardly it is good in occult Cancers, and hard Swellings of the Breasts. In the Cholic, its Decoction in Wine, drank, is admirable. Its Decoction is good in a Hoarseness, where the Voice is almost lost, and the Spirits low. A Syrup of the Juice, made with Honey, is good in all the above Diseases of the Breast, and in a Jaundice, Pleurisy, Pain in the Back and Loins, and in Gripes of the Belly. The Seed is good against Poisons, Sci [...]tica, Gout, and other Joint Aches; and in Fistula's, hollow Ulcers, and in eating or running Cankers, &c. It is Vulnerary, causes plentiful Spitting, makes Breathing easier, &c.

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TREACLE MUSTARD ( Thlaspi) is Cutting, Thinning, [Page 198] Cleansing, and Opening, expels Urine, Menses, Birth, and After-birth. It is good to break inward Imposthumes; Clysters of it are much commended in a Sciatica. Its Powder given from one to two Ounces, at different Times, is extolled in the Stone, and to dissolve coagulated Blood. Outwardly, it cleanses all Running Ulcers; but it is improper for Women with Child.

214.

COMMON MITHRIDATE MUSTARD (Thlaspi Vaccariae folio) is very hot, dry, and cleansing; it is used to break inward Abscesses, expel the Menses, and cure the Sciatica. Outwardly it cleanses all creeping Ulcers, and is sometimes used for a Snuff. Being very diuretic, it is a good Remedy for Dropsy and Bloody-Flux, but hurtful to Women with Child. Bastard Mithridate Mustard has the same or like Virtues.

215.

TOWER MUSTARD. (Turritis) Parkenson and Lemery think that it is Cutting, Opening, Wind-expelling, and Sudorific; and seems, from its Taste, to be near allied to Mustard and Cresses, and probably will produce the like Effects. Tournefort and Lobel have increased the Species, and several others have added to them.— Myrrhis or Sweet Cicely, See before.

216.

MUSHROOMS (Fungi) roasted and applied in a Poultise, or boiled with white Lilly Roots, and Linseed in Milk, are one of the best Ripeners of Boils and Abscesses we have; for, from the Coldness, Clamminess, and Viscousness of their Parts, they reverberate the perspiring Matter, shut it up in the [Page 199] excretory Ducts, which fills and distends the secretory and small Vessels; hence must ensue a Breach of some of them, and a quick Suppuration of the extravasated Matter. Inwardly, they have always been reputed, some a more speedy, others a slower Poison, for which, Pages of Testimonies might be quoted from the greatest Philosophers, Physicians, Botanists, Historians, and Naturalists, who have not been Slaves to Taste, and Pimps of Luxury. Their Poultises are of some Service in Quinsies. They are chiefly used in inflammatory Swellings, which, by too hot Applications, may easily be turned Schirruses.

217.

MYRTLE. ( Myrtillus) Though the internal Use of both Leaves and Berries be almost laid aside, yet Leaves, Twigs, and Fruit, are all binding and drying, whether used inwardly or outwardly, especially the Leaves; hence all the Antients agreed, that they were to be given for Spitting of Blood, or Excoriations of the Bladder. The express'd Juice of the green Berries is good for the Stomach, and provokes Urine. The Fruit boiled in Wine, and applied, heals Ulcers in the extreme Parts of the Body. Mixed with Wheat Flour, and applied, is good for Inflammations of the Eyes. A Wine made of the Juice of the Berries, drank a little warm, is good in Surfeits, Relaxations, or Fallings down of the Uterus, or Anus; and in the Whites. It cleanses off Scales, and running Ulcers of the Head, chap'd Nipples, and prevents Falling off of the Hair. A Decoction of the Leaves makes a good Bath or Fomentation for weak or relaxed Joints, Strains, Fractures, or Dislocations, of slow Cure; or for Sores behind the Ears. The Juice of the Leaves does the same; [Page 200] or if they are bruised, sprinkled with Water, and laid to running Ulcers, or any Part oppressed with Defluxions; or mixed with unripe Oil of Olives, or Oil of Roses, and a little Wine, they are good in Tetters, Inflammations of the Testicles, and Excrescences of the Anus. A Syrup of the Berries is used in Loosenesses, for hot Catarrhs, or Rheums of the Breast. The Fruit and Leaves are good in Ruptures. For hot Swellings, Ray says, that Rusticks with good Success apply bruised Leaves of Woodroof, or bruised fresh Leaves of the Beech Tree, in a Poultise. For hard Swellings, He says, that green Leaves of white Alder, applied, discuss the Swelling, and check the Inflammation; or a Poultise of Marsh-mallow Leaves and Roots softens and ripens. For Oedematous Swellings, Etmuller commends bruised Celandine, applied in a Poultise alone, or with Pidgeons, or Goats Dung. Sim. Pauli advises a Poultise of Hops, boiled in Ale.

MYRTLE. Is only in curious Gardens, and, with Care, preserved from sharp Frost.

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ANTIDOTES to POISO S. Crude or preserved Garlick, swallowed with Wine; or Calamint taken any how, Aetius says, is good. Morrison advises fresh express'd Juice of Goats Rue, drank. — For drinking Aquafortis, Forestus praises Mucilage of Quince Seeds, drank.—For Cantharides swallowed, Platerus gave a Decoction of Linseed to drink. —And Sennertus advises the inward Use of Pennyroyal in any Form.—For Hemlock eaten, after a Vomit or purging Clyster given, He used Leaves of Wormwood, or Carrot, or Nettle-seeds, or Gentian Root, powdered, and given in strong Wine; or boiled in Water, and given with Wine. Others give a Draught of Vinegar, or of Brandy or Rum. — Against Hellebore, He gave a Vomit, of Broom and Elder Flowers, each two Pugils; Dwarf [Page 201] Elder Bark, two Drams▪ Arrach and Dill-seeds, of each one Dram▪ boil in Hydromel, to six Ounces, strain, and add Rue Leaves, one Ounce; mix and make a Vomit. If a Clyster is needful, prepare it of a Decoction of Althaea Leaves, Lesser Centaury, Plantain, and Rue: To the strained Liquor, add Oil of Dill, and Yolks of Eggs, mix, and inject; or powdered Flowers or Roots of Water-Lilly, Half a Dram given in Wine; or two Drams of its powdered Seeds. But Quince Wine, Syrup, or Marmalade, are preferable.—For the Gripes and Corrosions of Euphorbium, give first a Vomit and a Clyster. Then he advises powdered Citron Seeds, a Dram or two to be [...]ven in an Infusion of Elecampane Root, in Wine. But a Solution of Gum Arabic, in a Decoction of Althaea Root, would not be amiss.—For Mushrooms, give the above Vomit. Then two or three Drams of sifted Vine Twig Ashes, with a little Nitre in Mulse; or Lixivium of the Ashes, filtered, and given to drink; Aetius. Sennertus says, that their Malignity is resisted powerfully by taking Preparations of Garlick, Wormwood, Birth-wort, wild Calamint, Hyssop, Cresses, wild Marjoram, and Rue.—Against Quicksilver, use first strong Exercise, then give a Clyster, or a strong Purge; then drink Powder of Costmary Root in Wine; Guainerius. Or drink Juice of Burnet; Schenckius. Or powdered Rue in Wine; Guainerius.—Against drinking Frog Spawn Water, boil the outer Bark of Walnut-tree, in Wine and Water, each twelve Ounces, to sixteen; strain, and drink a Draught or two of it; or take powdered, dried, white Briony Root in Wine; Gabelchoverus.—For Glass, or Pins swallowed, make a thick Gruel of Millet, with Milk, and eat freely; but nothing after; Keckermannus.—If any swallow Verdigrease, take a Vomit after, of [Page 202] warm Water, with Sallad Oil or Butter; and give a Clyster of the Decoction of Mallows, Althaea, Foenugreek, and Flea-bane Seeds, with a little Honey and Sallad Oil; or drink two or three Drams of Juice of Acorus Root, or of Juice of Smallage Leaves, or Half an Ounce of the Juice of Mint Leaves, or a Dram of powdered Zedoary Root, taken in Wine.—If corrosive Sublimate is swallowed, drink Oil of Tartar after it.

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NAVEL-WORT ( Umbilicus Veneris) the Greater, with a tuberous knobby Root, is much of the Nature of Housleek, cleansing, binding, and repercussive▪ [...] Juice, dropped into Wine, and often applied, cures a Phymos [...]s. Outwardly it is useful in all Inflammations, King's-evil, and Chilblains. It cools the Heat of the Stomach. The Leaves and Roots, eaten together in a Sallad, are diuretic, and said to break the Stone. Given with Honey, they are good in Dropsies. An useful Gargle may be made of it for the Quinsy, and apply a Poultise of its Leaves, bruised with River Crabs. Of its Juice, with Verjuice, may be made an Uterine Injection, for a Descent of the Vagina, and to cleanse fistulous Ulcers. A Bath, Fotus, or Ointment of it, with other proper Ingredients, applied to the Part, is good for the Piles.

NAVEL-WORT. I have not.

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NAVEW ( Napus) is hotter than Turnips, but has much the same Virtues; it is cleansing, opening, digesting, and inciding. It resists Poison, expels bad Humours by Perspiration, provokes Urine, is good in the Jaundice, malignant Fevers, and Small Pox. Taken in a warm Decoction, like Broth, it is good in an obstinate Cough, Asthma, and Consumption. It is used outwardly in Poultises, to digest, resolve, and ease Pain.

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NETTLES Stinging ( Urtica Urens) are a great Diuretic, expel all gravelly Matter. They are an Antidote to Hemlock and Henbane; eaten boiled, they loosen the Belly, cleanse the Reins, expel Sand and small Stones, promote Spitting, and drive out the Measles. Their Juice or Syrup is extoll'd for Spitting of Blood, if four Ounces is drank every Morning for a Week, and a Decoction of the Leaves drank after. The distilled Water, with Spirit of Wine, stops Spitting of Blood powerfully. The white Part of the Root put up the Nose, and snuffing their Water after, stays Bleeding at the Nose. Outwardly, they help putrid, gangrenous, and malignant Ulcers; discuss Hardness and Tumours. A Gargle of them helps the inflamed Uvula. The lesser Nettle bruised, and put up the Nose, or its Juice snuffed up, stops its Bleeding. The Seed is often used with Success, in Diseases of the Lungs; as Asthma, obstinate Cough, Pleurisy, &c. The Seed provokes Urine, Menses, and Venery, if the fresh Seed be boiled, and eaten with Butter for three Days; or eat Hazle-Nut-Kernels, preserved with Honey; or drink Birch Water, or Wine; or foment the Genitals with a Decoction of Columbine Seed and Herb. A Conserve of Nettle Flowers and Seeds is good for the Stone in the Kidneys, Diseases of the Breast, and Spitting of Blood. The Root is good in the Jaundice. Its Decoction in Honey and Wine, is good against cold Coughs, and Shortness of Breath. The Juice, given often with a little Sugar, cures an excessive Flux of the Piles, when other Means fail. Their Sting is cured by their own Juice, Sallad Oil, or Oil of Roses. People check too violent a Fermentation of Malt Liquors, and defend them against Thunder, [Page 204] by putting Nettles and Iron into the Casks. They should be put in all Decoctions for Fomentations to Gangrenes. A Gargle of their Decoction is good for Swellings of the Mouth and Throat. They kill Worms, ease Stitches of the Sides, and help Windiness, or Weakness of the Stomach. The Juice with Salt, is good against the Bite of venomous Beasts. It is also an Antidote to all cold stupifying Plants, as Night-shade, Mushrooms, &c. and too much crude Mercury swallowed down; and to Defilements of the Skin. The Juice is good for Wounds. Charier says, that their Decoction in strong Wine, with Sugar, drank at several Times a little warm, and a Poultise of the strained out Herb laid to the Side, is a wonderful Medicine in a Pleurisy.

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NIGHT-SHADE. ( Solanum) The Berries are more cooling, but repel more strongly than the Leaves, which, as they allay and mitigate Pain, do also dissolve, cleanse, and absorb. They afford much concrete volatile Salt. Night-shade allays Inflammations, discusses Swellings, softens, and relaxes the Fibres, under too great Tension. The bruised Herb is laid to the Piles, or the Part is fomented with the warm Juice, which, being some Time stirred in a leaden Mortar, is also laid to Cancers. It, with a sixth Part of well dephlegmated Spirit of Wine, is accounted most efficacious to cure St. Anthony's Fire, Tetters, Pimples, Pustules, and the like Disorders of the Skin. Night-shade is added to most Pain-easing Poultises, as well as the Poplar Ointment. Caesalpinus says, its Water may be taken inwardly, in an Inflammation of the Stomach, and Heat of Urine; and that Waters of this and Wormwood, of each three Ounces, discharge [Page 205] by Sweat. This Plant is always reckoned a Poison taken inwardly. Tragus says, it kills Hogs, and would not have even its Water used, under two or three Years old. Antiently it was used as a Food, and given internally (but must be done with the greatest Caution and Judgment) and externally, for the Cure of an Erysipelas, fretting and corroding Ulcers, the Head-ach, and Swellings of the Neck. Dodonoeus justly condemns its Use in an Erysipelas, because it is too cold, and too great a Repellent. Dioscorides says, that its Juice, with the yellow Part of Hens Dung, fed in a Pen, certainly cures the Lachrymal Fistula. A Liniment or Poultise of it is a noble Remedy for venereal Inflammations of the Yard. The Application of the Juice to the Wrists is said to cure Fevers. A Liniment of the Juices of this, and Housleek, and the White of an Egg, beaten up and mixed, is wonderful in the Cure of cold hard Tumours, bred in Womens Breasts.

223.

CLIMBING NIGHT-SHADE or BITTER-SWEET ( Dulcamara) is used outwardly for the same Purposes; it is diuretic, and beneficial in a Dropsy. Tragus commends it for the Cure of even inveterate Jaundices, thus: Take a Pound of the Wood of the Plant, cut it small, and put it in an Earthen Pot with three Pints of white Wine; let the Pot-cover have a Hole in the Top, and all the rest be closely cemented with Paste; set it on a gentle Fire, and let it boil to the Consumption of a third Part; a Cup-full of the strained Liquor, drank Evening and Morning in Bed, cures the Jaundice, and carries off the Humours by Stool and Urine. The Juice, taken inwardly, dissolves coagulated Blood, and is good for such as are bruised by Falls, &c. It is thought to open Obstructions of the Liver and [Page 206] Spleen. Parkinson says, that he always found its inward Use cause violent Purging. And Prevotius places it at the Head of Purgers of Bile. Mr. Ray says, that Dr. Hulse informed him, that the following in one Night dissolved a Tumour as big as a Man's Head, and healed desperate and dangerous Contusions of the Muscular Parts. Take Leaves of Bitter-sweet cut small; four Ounces of Linseed, finely powdered, boiled in Muscadine Wine, or Hogs Lard, to a Poultise, and apply hot to the Part. ^*

DULCAMARA. Grows only in curious Gardens with us.

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OAK. (Quercus) All its Parts are astringent, especially its inner membranous Bark. A Decoction of it, or the Leaves, given in a Looseness (after due purging) or Bloody-Flux, or Spitting of Blood, is powerful. The Acorns have the same Effect, though not to be used for Food, to rob the Swine, except in a Famine. A distilled Water of the Leaves is used for the Whites, and raging Dysentery. Some use a Powder of dried Acorns to expel Urine and Stone. The Norvegians make a Meal, and Bread of them, to eat in a Dearth; or a Gargle of the tender reddish Leaves, boiled in Wine, and used, cures a Tooth-ach from Defluxion. Lithotomists use a Decoction of the Bark, for the Patients to sit in, to forward the Cure of their Wounds. In a Word, Leaves, Nuts, Bark, and Wood, are all very astringent and useful, inwardly and outwardly, for Fluxes of the Belly, Uterus, Blood, Semen, &c. Oak and Plantain Leaves, boiled in Water, and the Liquor sweetened, is good for a Quinsy. The Galls are most astringent, they restrain Fluxions in all the Parts of the Mouth, and heal its little Ulcers. The Inside of them, put into a hollow Tooth, eases the Tooth-ach. Beaten up with either Wine or Water, and either drank or rubb'd on the Belly, they are good in a Coeliaca, or Bloody-Flux; or their Powder drank in a Glass of Wine. A Water, distilled from foreign Galls, has cured Ruptures, even in grown [Page 208] up Persons. Oak Apples boiled in Wine, are good against all Fluxes, great Moisture and Swelling of the Jaws, Almonds in the Ears, &c. Their Decoction is also good for the Whites, Excess of the Menses, and Relaxation of the Vagina, if a warm Stove of them is sat over. Oak Moss is a great Astringent; a Dram of its Powder taken with a little Coral, in Claret, stays the Menses, and other Fluxes; it is also good in Childrens Ruptures. Being drying and astringent, it stops Bleeding, and heals green Wounds. It is often used for Diseases of the Lungs, as Cough, Asthma, and Consumption, either in Syrup or Powder; or boiled in Small Beer, it has been effectual in a Jaundice. Powder of Cup Moss, given in a Syrup of this, is reckoned a Specific in the Chin-cough.

225.

ONIONS ( Cepa) are very pungent and volatile, of thick Parts, fit for them that abound with cold and viscid Humours; they procure them Sleep, help Concoction, and cure acid Belchings; they loosen the Belly of some, and bind it in others; they carry off Obstructions, promote Urine, and insensible Perspiration. But they are very injurious to the Bilious, affecting their Head, Eyes, Sleep, and Stomach. Onions cut and steeped all Night in Spring Water, and given Children to drink in a Morning, kills Worms. An Onion hollowed and filled with Treacle, then roasted under hot Ashes, the outward Skin taken off, and the rest beaten up to a Poultise, and applied, effectually softens and opens Plague Sores, poisonous Ulcers, and other Collections of putrid Matter. Bruised raw Onions, with a little Salt, laid on fresh Burns, not blistered, quickly draws out the Fire, and prevents Blisters. The Head rubb'd with raw Onions, Evening and [Page 209] Morning, till it is red, then rubbing it after with Honey, brings new Hair where it was bald. A white Onion cut through the Middle, steeped in Brandy, and laid to the pained Part, cures Head-ach and Megrim. Onions boiled in Fat, and laid to kibed Heels, cure them effectually. Onions boiled in Wine, then fried in a Frying-pan, bruised, and laid to the Belly, give immediate Relief in After-Pains. Bruised Onions, or their Juice, with Goose-grease applied, are good for Swellings of the Feet. Onions, or white Lilly Roots boiled in Water and fresh Lard, then beaten up with two Drams of Treacle, and applied Evening and Morning, draw a Bubo. Bruised Onions without the Skins, either raw or roasted, perfectly cure the dry Piles. Cut Onions roasted under the Embers, and mixed with Cream, and laid to the Side or Breast, have cured several Pleurisies. Onions boiled in Wine, and Sallad Oil, then bruised to a Poultise, and put in three Bags, one laid to the Back, and one to each Groin, gives the speediest Ease in racking Pains of the Stone and Gravel. Their Decoction is commended in a severe Cough, and Spitting of Blood. Their Seed provokes Venery. An habitual Use of the Root, wastes the Stone in the Kidneys and Bladder, excites an Appetite, and is good in an Asthma, Scurvy, and Dropsy. They quickly ripen Abscesses. Their Use is fittest for cold Weather, aged and phlegmatic People, whose Lungs are stuffed, and their Breath short. Roasted and laid on the Ear, they, or the Juice of Elder Buds, ripen and break Imposthumes in it. ^* Shallots have [Page 210] much the same Virtues, only they and Onions are weaker than Garlick.

226.

ORPINE ( Telephium) is vulnerary and astringent, much used to heal and smooth the Intestines excoriated by a Dysentery. The Root boiled in Wine with Honey, cures Ruptures, and Burns. It eases Pain powerfully; the bruised Leaves laid to Wounds, or inveterate Ulcers, have the like Effect. The Herb roasted under live Ashes, mixed with Lard, and applied to Felons or Whitlows, cures them to a Wonder. The fresh Roots sliced, and put on a Thread, and hung between the Shoulders, often ease the Pain of the Piles, and all the Knobs at the same Time decay and vanish with the Roots. Tragus commends its distilled Water in Excoriations, and Gnawings of the Stomach, or Bowels, and to them that have Ulcers in their Lungs, Liver, Matrix, or other inward Parts; these Diseases it cures, if drank several Days together; its Decoction seems more suitable. Bound to the Throat, it helps a Quinsy. The Leaf, applied to any green Wound on the Hands or Legs, quickly heals it. ^*

ORPINE. I have not observed it to grow in any of our Provinces.

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ORRICE, IRIS, FLOWER-DE-LUCE. Botanists reckon up only Eighty Species of this Plant, besides about Forty Species more of the bulbous Kind; some of which are cultivated in Gardens, others grow wild in the Fields; nor are all the first Species [Page 212] of the same Nature, for the German, or wild Flower-de-luce, or the worst common Purple Flower-de-luce, is exceeding hot and dry, purges Water, and causes Sneezing. It is mostly given to purge off Water in Dropsies. Applied outwardly, it cures Tetters and Ring-worms, and cleans the Skin from these and other Spots and Deformities; but it is injurious to the Stomach and other Viscera, therefore must be well corrected. It affords several Preparations, as first, the express'd Juice purified by Digestion, and given fresh to purge. Secondly, The Faecula, or Lees made of the Juice, which purges not so much as the Juice. Thirdly, The infused Oil. The Root of Florentine Orrice, or Flower-de-luce, hung in Ale or Wine, preserves the Liquors fresh, and gives them a fine Flavour, like that of Raspberries. The Root of this Plant has many Virtues; it dries, warms, cuts, thins, and expectorates, digests, cleanses, and softens. It is chiefly used for Mucilage and Tartar, in the Lungs, for a Shortness of Breath, Stoppage of the Terms, and Gripes in Children. Applied outwardly, it cleanses the Skin. Mixed with Hellebore and Honey, it corrects a bad Breath. The Juice taken from Half an Ounce to an Ounce and a Half, and increase the Dose every Morning, till it comes to four Spoonfuls, it purges Water strongly, and has cured many Dropsies. And Hollerius gives it for a most sovereign Remedy, and great Secret. An Ounce of its Juice, says Schenkius, is incomparable in a desparate Costiveness. It first purges Water, [Page 213] then Bile; but, being so very hot, it inflames not only the Mouth, but the whole Body. But tho' this is the Effect of the Juice of the common wild Sort, which ought not to be given crude, but clarified, corrected, and given in Whey to cool it, whereby it is made safe and successful; yet this is not the Effect of the Juice of the white Florentine. The crude Juice of the other Kinds should not be given above two Drams to a Dose. Issue-Peas are made of the Roots. The white Florentine has a fragrant Smell, and makes a good Hair Powder. Its Powder is given to Infants for the Gripes, from acid Humours. It is put into Electuaries to thin thick and tough Phlegm, in Shortness of Breath, and old Coughs. Some commend it for the Spleen, Convulsions, and Cramps. The Root, boiled up to a Poultise, and applied, softens scrophulous, and other hard Tumours.

228.

The IRIS PALUSTRIS LUTEA, or Root of the yellow Marsh Flower-de-luce, is temperate and very astringent, stops Bloody Fluxes of the Belly, Uterus, Urine, or Bleeding in any Part of the Body; worn as an Amulet, it prevents them. The Flowers of this Plant burn the Mouth intolerably. Schroder says, that the Root, dug up in September, dries, warms, binds, strengthens, and resolves, and is good for Diseases of the Brain and nervous System.

229.

The PALE-WATER FLOWER-DE-LUCE is so strong and acrimonious, though it smells like Hog's Fennel, that Dioscorides says it is good against Wounds and Fractures of the Head, and draws out of the Flesh, Thorns, Prickles, or Darts, without [Page 214] Pain. Mixed with a third Part Verdigrease, and a fifth of Centaury Root, with Honey, and laid on with Vinegar, it cures Swellings in Inflammations. The bruised Root steeped in Sack, or any other sweet Wine, and drank, is good for Convulsions, Cramps, Ruptures, Gout, or Sciatica, Incontinence of Urine, or other Overflowings. Half a Dram of the Seed, drank in Wine, provokes Urine powerfully. Drank with Vinegar, it is good for the Spleen. The purging Juices are corrected by Honey and Spikenard; they kill Worms, ease the Stone and Gravel, cure involuntary Loss of Seed, vomit and purge. A Decoction of the Root, in Wine, expels Urine and Menses, and eases the Cholic. The Juice eases the Piles. For a Swelling of the Cods, take four Drams of this powdered Root, Cinnamon, and Dill-seed, of each two Drams, Saffron a Scruple, mix and spread all on a scarlet Cloth, moisten them well with white Wine, warm them over a Chafing-dish, and apply. The following Wine is said to have been found successful in a Dropsy, a thousand Times: Take Roots of Flower-de-luce, two Ounces; of Elecampane, Squills, of each Half an Ounce; Barks of Elder, and Dwarf Elder, of each one Ounce; Winter Bark, two Drams; Senna Leaf, two Ounces; Agaric, black Hellebore, of each two Drams; white Wine, two Quarts; mix and infuse all for Use.

230.

PARSLEY ( Petroselinum) Root and Herb are both used, they help a windy Stomach, expel Urine, and Menses, free Liver and Spleen from Obstructions; are good in Dropsy and Jaundice. The Seeds thin, open, and expel Urine, Birth, After-Birth, and dead Child; dislodge Wind, Gravel, [Page 215] and small Stones, are good against old Coughs, and repel Poisons. Outwardly, the whole Root resolves hot Tumours; a Poultise of it laid to the Breasts, diminishes Milk. The Seed is said to be good against the Bite of venomous Beasts, and an Antidote to Litharge. The bruised Herb in a Poultise, laid to inflamed Eyes, gives them Ease; and takes off the Blueness of Blows and Bruises. In all the above inward Uses, Dodonoeus prefers the Seed to the Root. Tragus gives a Medicine for the Jaundice, Epilepsy, Stone, and Gravel, viz. Seeds of Parsley, Anise, and Carraway, of each an Ounce; Roots of burnt Saxifrage, Parsley, and Carraway, of each Half an Ounce; bruise the Seeds, cut the wash'd Roots, infuse all in two Quarts of white Wine all Night, next Morning boil away a third Part of it in a close Vessel, strain it, Dose four Ounces Evening and Morning, and fast three Hours after it. Parsley is best suited to old, phlegmatic, and melancholic Persons; but agrees not with the young, hot, and bilious, or where the Blood was too thin before. The distilled Water is as good as Saxifrage Water, against Childrens Gripes, either from Wind or Bile. A Scruple of powdered Aniseed, given in their Meat, eases Gripes much, and it is laxative. The Seed or Oil, taken at Bed-time, is commended against Hag-riding; or a Dram or two of powdered Paeony Root, or fifteen Grains of its Seed, drank in an Emulsion at Bed-time. To cure Childrens gauled or excoriated Parts, powdered Cudweed is the best.

231.

PEACH-TREE (Persica) some condemn, others commend the Fruit, but if eaten sparingly before it is quite ripe, mellow, very soft or sweet, it is certainly a pleasant, harmless, and grateful Fruit, [Page 216] with a Glass of Wine after it. It is best preserved with Sugar in form of a Syrup; thus it is agreeable to the Sick that have parched, dry, chap'd Tongues, and Mouths, Thirst, and in hot Diseases. Brassavola gave one or two roasted under the Embers to his Patients. Amatus says, they are a most delicious grateful Food to the Sick. Peaches are preserved in Brandy, but then they are too hot for Physic. The Leaves boiled in Milk, or bruised and laid to the Navel, kill Worms in Children. Parkinson says, if taken in due Time, they loosen the Belly. A Syrup or Conserve of the Flowers purge, but they often cause Vomiting, make Children sick, and disturb the Bowels; therefore they are seldom used now. Some eat the Flowers in Sallads. The distilled Water beautifies the Face. The Gum of the Tree is commended in a Looseness, for Stone and Gravel; Swellings of the Jaws, Roughness of the Windpipe, Spitting of Blood, Disorders of the Lungs, and Bloody-Flux. Mathiolus commends the Kernels for the Gripes, and eaten to prevent Drunkenness; rubbed on with Vinegar, they prevent Falling off of the Hair. Their Oil induces Sleep, eases the Megrim, and, either drank, or given in Clysters, it eases the Cholic, Iliac Passion, and Stone. A Water made of Thirty of the bruised Kernels, and One Hundred Cherry Kernels, and a Handful of Elder Flowers, all infused ten days in three Pints of white Wine, in an earthen Pot, well covered, and buried in Horse Dung, then distilled: Mathiolus calls it a wonderful Remedy to waste and expel the Stone. Nectarines are much of the same Nature.

232.

PEAR-TREE (Pyrus) the Fruit of the better Sort is grateful to the Stomach, and quenches [Page 217] Thirst, if eaten raw; it is best eaten after Meat; before they are ripe, they are better baked than raw. The dry Fruit, eaten, checks Fluxes of the Belly, and of Blood. If Mushrooms are baked with them, they are said to correct their Malignity; but I should be loth to try. They are either baked in Ovens, or preserved like other Fruits to keep. Harsh and sour Pears, cool and bind; the sweet loosen and nourish. The Ashes of the Wood, or the Lee of them drank in Wine, is good for those that are in Danger of Suffocation, from eating Mushrooms. The harsher applied outwardly, cool, bind, and heal Wounds, preventing their Inflammation, or farther Trouble; for which Use, wild Pears are best.

233.

MALE PIONY. (Poeonia Mas) The Roots, Flowers, and Seeds, are all used for Diseases of the Head and Womb, as Apoplexy, Epilepsy, Incubus, Vertigo, Cramp, Convulsions, Head-ach, obstructed Menses and Lochia, Retention of the After-birth, After-pains, and Obstructions of the Liver. Galen gives a surprising Instance of the Falling-Sickness, cured by a Piece of the Root hung about the Neck in an Amulet. Common People use it to this Day, to prevent Convulsions, especially in Necklaces to Infants; they are also made of Human Scull, Poppy Roots, &c. The husked powdered Seed, given in Wine, is said to restore lost Speech. Parkinson says, for the Epilepsy, the Root is to be infused Twenty-four Hours in Sack, then strained, and a Glass of it drank every Evening and Morning, for a long Time, two Days before, the Day of, and two Days after, every full Moon; but let the Body be first duly prepared with Posset Drink, made of Betony. The red Seed beaten, [Page 218] and given in Wine, is good for Fluxes of the Belly and Womb; and the black Seed for Diseases of the Head. Some make the powdered Seed a great Secret in Convulsions, and sell it at an extravagant Price. A Parcel of this grand Arcanum fell accidentally into my Hands; I examined it several Ways (as I have done some other Nostrums that seemed worth while) and found it to be this Seed. I gave it to several young Epileptics, but without the least Success. I have with Patience and Perseverance tried the Effects of this Root and Flowers, in Diseases of the Head and Nerves, for near Thirty Years, but am still to find the Success, whatever great Matters some may boast of it. Take powdered Roots of Piony, two Drams; Stings of wild Bees, Number ten; mix both the Powders, and give eight or ten Doses of this, it is said to cure Convulsions in Infants, effectually. But others advise Roots of Piony, Human Scull, Membranes of a Foetus, or the After-birth, of each alike; powder all, mix and use, Dose a Dram; others prefer this: Take prepared Cinnabar Native, or of Antimony, three Ounces; of wild Valerian Roots, two Ounces; and two Drams of Russia Castor; white Amber, Man-skull, red Myrrh, Seeds of Piony, Rue, and Henbane, of each nine Drams; Mosaic Gold, three Drams; prepare and mix all, and Dose a Dram thrice a Day, after the Body is duly prepared. Weickard is for this: Take Piony Roots, gathered in the Wane of the Moon, an Ounce; of Male Piony Seeds husk'd, Half an Ounce; Elks Claws, three Drams; white Amber, and calcined Hartshorn, prepared, of each two Drams; prepared Coral and Pearl, of each one Dram; Peacock's Dung, four Scruples; Oriental Bezoar, a Dram; true Unicorn's Horn, two Scruples; Filings of Hungarian Gold, a Dram; Saffron, [Page 219] a Scruple; Manus Christi perlati, Half an Ounce; Oil of Mace, Half a Scruple; make all into a Powder, mix, Dose from Half a Scruple to Half a Dram. And Schroder extols this: Take Powder of a dried Secundine, five Drams; of calcined Man's Scull, one Ounce; Powder of young Crows, two Ounces; Rennet of a Hare, a Dram; rasped Harts-horn, two Drams; Castor, Half a Dram; whitest Amber, two Drams; Misletoe, gathered in the Moon in the Wane, Half a Dram; Piony Root and Berries, gathered before the Wane of the Moon, of each Half a Dram; Ambergrease, Musk, each ten Grains; Species Dianthos, Letific. Galeni, prepared Pearl and Coral, of each a Scruple; make a Powder, and mix.

234.

PELLITORY OF THE WALL (Parietaria) cleanses, cools, and astringes gently; it is seldom used inwardly, except for a Cough, Difficulty of Urine, or to expel Gravel; but it is often used in Clysters to ease Pains of the Belly, Womb, and Reins, and outwardly to Swellings, Burns, &c. It is a good Healer of Wounds. Powder of the dried Herb, in Honey or Posset, is good in obstinate Coughs, and Consumptions of the Lungs. Its Powder is better than its Decoction. A Syrup of this Juice, Etmuller says, is a Secret in a Dropsy.

PELLITORY OF THE WALL, and PELLITORY OF SPAIN. Neither of them, that I observed, grows in these Provinces.

235.

PELLITORY of SPAIN (Pyrethium) with a Daisy Flower, is an excellent Remedy for a Palsy of the Tongue, with Loss of Speech; and, for the Tooth-ach, chewed in the Mouth, to cause a short Spitting, but might perhaps be better taken inwardly in small repeated Doses. An Ounce of the Juice in a Glass of Wine, and laid to sweat an Hour [Page 220] or two before the Fit, certainly cures an Ague, at the second or third Time using. The Root, put up the Nose, causes a great Flux of Phlegm from the Head, and prevents Diseases of the Brain. The Leaves or Flowers, in a Salve, or Poultise, take away Blueness or Blackness from Falls or Bruises. Chewing Saxifrage, or Burnet Roots, cause also Spitting; or Mastich, which has a pleasant Smell and Taste, fastens loose Teeth, is good in Deafness, and gives the Breath a fine Smell.

236.

PENNY-ROYAL ( Pulegium) is a Kind of Mint, and has many of the same Properties, only it is sharper, of thinner Parts, and more efficacious. It promotes the Menses, expels Birth and After-birth, Gravel, Sand, and Urine. It is good in a Jaundice, and a Dropsy; eases the Gripes, is excellent to promote Spitting and raise tough Phlegm from the Breast. It is one of our best Pectorals, and Antihisterics, either in Infusion, or distilled Water. A Spoonful of its Juice sweetened with Sugar, and given to Children, at due Intervals, is excellent in the Chin-cough. Six Ounces of its Infusion sweetened, and drank at going to Bed, powerfully relieves a Hoarseness. Outwardly, it is good for the Head, prevents Dulness and Sleepiness; it is good in a Vertigo, Arthritic Pains, and cleanses the Teeth. It is a glorious Herb for the Womb, Breast, and Head; especially when the Menses and Lochia are too pale. Some give the Powder of the After-birth of the first Child (if a Male) in an Infusion of this Herb, to cure Convulsions. Others for the same Purpose take powdered Leaves and Flowers of Penny-royal, Betony and Germander, of each two Handfuls; of Hyssop, Blessed Thistle, and common Downy Thistle, of each a Handful; [Page 221] Thyme and Rue, of each Half a Handful; Powder all, and with Honey make an Electuary for Use. Penny-royal drives Fleas out of a Room. It cures Loathing, and is a good Stomachic. ^*

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237.

PERRIWINKLE (Vincapervinca) is a good Wound Herb, and Astringent, proper in Fluxes, Dysentery, Blood-Spitting, excessive Discharges by Piles and Menses; against Bleeding of the Nose, and Whites, if three Handfuls of the Herb be infused in a Quart of boiling Water, strained and drank with a little of its Extract or Conserve dissolved in it. The bruised Herb, put up the Nose, stops its Bleeding, if at the same Time a little of it be held in the Mouth. An Infusion of it, Tansy, and Agrimony, in Milk, distill'd, the Water is good in a Dropsy. Dr. Hulse says its fresh Leaves [Page 223] laid on coarse Paper, and smoaked with Frankincense, and applied to strumous Swellings, discuss them in a short Time. The Leaves put into a clean Cask, and thick muddy Wine poured on them, they restore its Colour, clear and purify it.

PERRIWINKLE. CAMMOCK. LESSER CELANDINE. Grow only in a few botanick Gardens in our Provinces.

238.

PETTY WHIN, REST-HARROW, or CAMMOCK, ( Anonis) the Root, but especially the Bark, provokes Urine, wastes and expels small Stones in the Reins and Bladder; consumes fleshy Excrescences in the Urethra; eases the Tooth-ach, and either in Powder infused in Wine, or boiled in Posset-Drink, cures Obstructions of the Liver. Sim. Pauli says it has no Equal in the Stone and Gravel. Its Infusion, drank, cures the Piles and Excrescences in the Anus. Its Roots are put in Broths, Ptisans, and Apozems, as a great Aperient and Diuretic; hence it is good in the Jaundice, Stone, Menses stopped, and Piles inflamed. Two Drams of the Root Bark, infused in white Wine, is good in a nephritic Cholic. A Dram of the Root, taken in Broth daily, is commended in Carnosities, and for a Sarcocele. A Decoction of the whole Plant is a good Gargle against the Scurvy of the Mouth and Gums.

239.

PILEWORT, or LESSER CELANDINE (Chelidonium Minus) is good in a Jaundice, Scurvy, and Flux of the Haemorrhoids. Outwardly it is a Specific in the Piles and Excrescences of the Anus, whether its Juice, Powder, Ointment, Decoction, Fomentation, or Poultise of it is used, or even the meer bruised Root be laid to the Part; it is also a Specific in the King's Evil, swell'd Glands, &c. The fresh Roots, put into the Ulcers, extirpate them; for abounding with an acrid Salt, it is hot and sharp. [Page 224] The Juice of the Root snuffed up the Nose, or its Decoction with a little Honey, gargled, purges the Head effectually, and the last purges the Breast from tough Phlegm, or gross Humours, and helps a running Itch. The following may ease some in the Heat and Swelling of the Piles: Take Linseed Oil four Ounces, boil in it Pile-wort and Flix-weed, of each what you please; strain, and add Wax, three Drams; Poplar Ointment, Half an Ounce; Oil of Box-wood and Opium, each a Dram; Ointment of Althaea, an Ounce; mix all, and, when used, add a little Yolk of an Egg. Some take Oil of Juniper, drawn by a Retort in an open Fire, from which the Spirit is separated by the Tunnel; rub the outward Piles every fourth Hour with a Feather dipp'd in this Oil. But, in the internal Piles, throw up by a Syringe a Fourth of a Spoonful of this Oil. The Pain eases in two Hours, and the Swelling vanishes. Others make only a simple Ointment, by a triple Decoction of Pile-wort, in Lard or Butter, and to the last strained Liquor, add Turpentine and Wax, to give it a Consistence, and always apply it warm on Rags dipp'd in it, and applied, and kept on with a Bandage. Some to the Pile-wort here add Fig-wort, Flix-weed, and greater Housleek. If the Heat, Pain, and Swelling be great, a little Opium and Sugar of Lead may be added in using.

240.

PIMPERNEL (MALE) ( Anagallis) is used inwardly and outwardly. Its Decoction in Wine, drank in Bed, causes profuse Sweat, and is [...] Preservative from pestilential and malignant Diseases. Its distilled Water has cured many Suffusions of the Eyes. This Water drank daily, with as much Cows Milk, and a little Sugar, Dose twelve Spoonfuls, [Page 225] Evening and Morning, has been of great Service to many in Consumptions, where the Lungs were ulcerated. Its Decoction brings down the Menses, and relieves Childrens Gripes. The Feet washed in its Decoction in Urine, and the boiled Herb applied in a Poultise, carries off a Fit of the Gout. Willis reckons a Decoction of the Herb, with Purple Flowers, a Specific in Madness. The Decoction in Wine drank in Bed is good against the Bite of a Viper, or of a Mad Dog. The Juice may be used for the Decoction, it is exceeding good in a Dropsy, and in Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen, and Reins. It expels the Stone. It is also good in a Delirium coming in continual Fevers. The Extract of the Plant has the same Virtues, and mixed with that of Hypericon, it is good in an Epilepsy. The Herb is a fine Vulnerary, is good in a Consumption, Ulcers, and Imposthumes of the Lungs, foetid and purulent Spitting.

ANAGALLIS. Grows only in Botanick Gardens.

241.

WATER PIMPERNEL or BROOK-LIME ( Becabunga) as was said before, is good in the Scurvy, Stone, and to hasten the Menses, and Expulsion of the dead Foetus. It, with a little Salt and Cobweb, applied, heals Wounds. In the Piles or other Excrescences about the Anus, a Poultise of it boiled in Water or Wine, and applied, instantly eases the most racking or acute Pain there. Lay on the boiled Herb in a Poultise; it is also good for Condylomata there. For the Scurvy: Take Conserve of Scurvy-grass, an Ounce and an Half; Conserve of the lesser Celandine, six Drams▪ of candied Citron and Orange Peel, each an Ounce; Cream of Tartar, Half an Ounce; prepared Steel, two Drams; Specier. Aromat. Rosat. a Dram, with [Page 226] Syrup of the five opening Roots, makes an Electuary: Dose two Drams twice a Day; Arnisaeus.

BECABUNGA. I have not observed any where in our Provinces.

242.

PHILLYREA or MOCK-PRIVET. Its Leaves with others, as Plantain, Bugle, Prunella, Knot-grass, autumnal Mallow-flowers, dried Roses, &c. boiled for a Gargle or Lotion, are very cooling and astringent; are good in Relaxations of the Uvula, &c. It is wonderful how much Mock-privet Leaves, boiled in Blacksmith's Trough Water, and used in a Gargle with a little Allum: I say how it strengthens loose flabby Gums, and fastens the Teeth. A Water, distilled from the tender Buds early in the Spring, is much commended for the Cure of Ulcers in the privy Parts, and especially with a little Allum; and for a Cancer, Rags dipped in, and laid on both, ex. gr. Half an Ounce of Allum to a Pint of the Water; this also cures Excoriations. The following was communicated by an emin [...]nt Surgeon, as a great Secret in small Ulcers of the [...]ose: Take of Mock-privet and Nightshade Water of each an Ounce; Sugar of Lead, a Scruple; Sugar-Candy, Half a Scruple; Camphire, seven Grains; mix and use. Its Water is also good for Burns. In Want of the Water, a Decoction of its Leaves may do, to gargle with, which is also good in the Tooth-ach. Sim. Pauli. Hac.

PHILLYREA. Grows in Botanick Gardens in Virginia.

243.

PLANTAIN (Plantago) is a cooling and drying Vulnerary, used chiefly in all Sorts of Fluxes, Looseness, Bloody Flux, Menses, involuntary Urine, Blood-spitting, Loss of Sperm, &c. It cleanses and heals Wounds and Ulcers soon and safely. The Antients used only the Seed and Root, we the Leaf mostly. Twelve Handfuls of the Leaf beaten in a Marble Mortar, the Juice expressed, and [Page 227] poured on six Ounces of fresh Comfry Root, with an equal Weight of Sugar, beat all up into an Electuary with some Drops of Oil of Anise or Nutmeg, it is a sure Remedy for Spitting of Blood. Juices of Plantain and Lemon mixt is a noble Diuretic. The Essence of Plantain, drank in a Decoction of Sarsaparilla and Sassafras, after due Evacuations, cured one of a Bloody Gonorrhoea, says Sim Pauli. Mead is a wonderful Remedy, says Bayrius, against the Rigour of Chronic Fevers. The fresh digg'd up Root of Plantain, washed, and a Piece cut with a Knife, and put in the Ear, stops the raging Pain of the Tooth-ach, like a Charm, says Sim. Pauli. Powdered Plantain Seed given in the Juice, or a Decoction of the Leaves sweetened, cures fresh Ruptures. The powdered Seed taken daily, from Half a Dram to a Dram in Broth, or in an Egg, prevents Abortion. The Juice is drank from one to four Ounces in the Beginning of Intermitting Fevers. The Juice, with Rose Water and Sugar, is a good Collyrium for inflamed Eyes. Its Decoction is a fine Gargle for the Mouth. The Leaves boiled in Wine, and beaten up to a Poultise, is good in an Aneurism. It is an Ingredient in Palmarias's Powder against Madness. Sim. Pauli says, that he saw a Navel Rupture of a grown up Person cured by a Poultise of Oak Lungs, and Sloethorn Bark. Take Juice of Plantain, and of Elder Leaves, of each a Pound and a Half; clarify the Liquor over the Fire, and separate the Clear from the Dross; to the first put Sugar a Pound; Honey, Half a Pound; boil all till there rise a clear Skin or Pellicle on the Top, then add Sugar of Lead, Half an Ounce; then take it from the Fire, let it cool, bottle it up for Use, and warm it a little in a Spoon, dip Lint in it, and lay on the Place twice a Day; it cures obstinate Ulcers of the Legs [Page 228] where the Bone is not affected, nor any Fistula or Sinuosity.

244.

WATER PLANTAIN is said to cool, astringe, and dry, to cure fallings down of the Anus; to ease a hot Pain of the Head, Spitting of Blood, and Bloody Urine. Roslin says, that its Juice, applied to the Breasts, is a great and most sure Secret to disperse their Milk suddenly.

245.

SEA PLANTAIN is cold and dry like the other Plantains, only the greater Sea Plantain, with grassy Leaves, is good against Biting and Stinging of Serpents, and venomous Beasts, and in a Dropsy, especially an Anasarca.

246.

BUCK'S-HORN PLANTAIN ( Coronopus) boiled in Wine, and drank, is good against the Bite of Serpents, if the Herb be laid to the Wound. The Decoction, drank, cools the Back and Reins of nephritic Persons, and so is good for the Stone. It stops bleeding at the Mouth, Nose, Stool, by Urine, Womb, or Wounds. Its Root strengthens the Stomach, and is good in Cholics. Its Decoction drank, and the Root hung about the Neck, weakens Ague Fits till it cures them; or laid to the Side, it eases the Fit. The Leaves and Roots, beaten up with Bay Salt, and laid to the Wrists, do the same. Its Decoction drank sometimes cures Rheums and Distillations on the Eyes. The Seed of creeping Buck's-horn takes off Warts. ^*

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247.

PLUM-TREE ( Prunus) the moist, ripe, sweet Fruit loosens; they afford not the best Juice, they soon putrefy in the Body, and nourish little, nor should they be eaten too plentifully at once, nor too [Page 230] ripe, but a little sharp and sour. The sweeter and riper they are, the more laxative; nor do they agree with cold, phlegmatic, lax Stomachs, but with the warm and bilious. Preserved with Sugar, they are very grateful to the Stomach, and to feverish, sick People; but the rough and acid are most so. Preserved Damascenes, if eaten sparingly, cool, moisten, and open the Body, abate Heat and Thirst in Fevers. A Gargle of Plum-tree Leaves, boil'd in Wine, is good for the Tonsils, Jaws, and Uvula; boiled in Milk, they are good for the Thrush in Children. The Gum of the Tree is of an agglutinating Nature, and drank in Wine it wastes the Stone. All these Fruits, however grateful they are to hot, bilious Stomachs, or to feverish and hot People, yet they are by no Means suited to the cold, aged, phlegmatic, weak, and pall'd Stomachs, except eaten very sparingly, and warm'd either with a Glass of strong Wine, or a Dram of Rum or Brandy.

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248.

POLEY MOUNTAIN ( Polium Montanum) infused in Squill Wine cures such as walk in their Sleep; being very acrid and bitter provokes Urine and Menses. It relieves in Dropsy and Jaundice, and is good against the Biting of venomous Beasts, abounding with a volatile Salt, Sylvius puts it among the second Rank of Medicines against the Falling Sickness. Dioscorides says its Decoction is good in the Biting of Serpents, and that its Fumigation, or strewing it in a House, drives away venomous Beasts. Though it disturb the Stomach, and cause Pain in the Head, yet it cures Spleen, Jaundice, and Dropsy, moves the Belly, and heals Wounds. The yellow Sort is best, it containing much Oil and volatile Salt; it is opening, good for the Head, causes Sweat, cures Wounds, resists Putrefaction, fortifies the Brain, expels malignant Vapours from Head and Heart, brings down Menses and Urine, says Lemery. Apuleius says, that Juice of Poley, mixt with Vinegar of Squills, and the Body anointed with it, cures Lunatics; that its Root hung about the Neck does the same.

POLEY MOUNTAIN▪ This Species is a Garden Plant in England, it grows not in our Provinces.

249.

POLYPODY. ( Polypodium) That of the Oak is chiefly used, and of it the Root only, with Laxatives, gently to carry off thick Phlegm, and adust Bile in Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, Sweetbread, and for Hypo and Scurvy; but being very slow, it is only mixed with other Purges in Infusion or Decoction, or in Broths with Beets, Parsley, Mallow, Cummin, Ginger, Fennel, and Anise; this is also a very good Decoction in the Gripes. The Powder taken (to Half a Dram daily, and fasting [Page 232] three Hours after) with Cream of Tartar, it is an excellent Cure for the Spleen, Jaundice, and Dropsy. Some use its distilled Water in a Cough, Asthma, Diseases of the Lungs, Melancholy, frightful Dreams, and Quartans, drank daily for some Time. In the three last Cases, the Root is to be boiled in Wine, and sweetened with Sugar and Honey. It is good for chapped Hands or Feet. Pliny says a Snuff of the powdered Root wastes the Polypus in the Nose. The Root, beaten small, and applied, helps Dislocations.

250.

POPLAR-TREE. ( Populus) An Ounce of the powdered Bark of the white Poplar, drank, is good in the Sciatica or Strangury▪ The warm Juice dropped into the Ear, eases its Pain. The young Buds bruised, with a little Honey, are good for dim Sight. The black Poplar is more cooling than the white; its Leaves, bruised with Vinegar, have been applied to the Gout. The Seed drank with Vinegar, is good for the Falling Sickness. The Water, that drops from the Hollow of this Tree, takes away Warts, Pustules, Wheals, &c. The early young Buds, bruised in fresh Butter, and set in the Sun, then strained, beautify Womens Hair. Its Ointment cools Inflammations and Wounds, and dries up the Milk in Womens Breasts.

251.

POPPY ( Papaver) Leaf, Juice, and Seed, are all in Use▪ but, not to insist on the Preparation of Opium here, which is imported to us, I shall chiefly insist on some of the Uses of white Poppies: One, two, or three Dishes of Tea, made of the bruised Seed or Head given at Night to Children, or feverish young People, compose gently to Rest, beyond Opium, [Page 233] Laudanum, or Diacodium, which often produce uneasy or disagreeable Symptoms. An Emulsion of the Seed prepared in Milk and Lettuce Water, is an effectual Remedy, says Sennertus, against the most raging Pains of the Inflammation of the Eyes. A Poultise of the Leaves, boiled in Milk, quiets the severest Pains of the Limbs. Take Poppy-head and Seeds, and Dill-seed, of each two Ounces; Tops of Hen-bane, Hound's-tongue, Night-shade, and Camomile Flowers, of each two Handfuls; cut and boil in six Pints of Water to four, and strain for Use, is Fuller's notable Anodyne Fomentation for all violent Pains or Aches. It is also in his excellent Fomentation, for spurious, pituitous, or flatulent Pleurisies, but does Mischief in a true inflammatory Pleurisy. Our white Poppy, which is chiefly used, is cooling, and moistens, procures Sleep in Disorders of the Breasts and Lungs, as Cough, Hoarseness, and Consumption; is good in a Looseness, and in great Pains, Watchings, Restlessness, and Catarrhs. The Turks use its spissated Juice, very much, and in great Doses, to raise their Spirits, excite Courage both for Mars and Venus. Some even use the Seeds in their Diet. In a Word, the Tea, Infusion, Emulsion, and Syrup of the Seeds, are used in all severe internal Pains, Loosenesses, Catarrhs, tickling Coughs from salt Rheums, Bloody Flux, Spitting of Blood, excessive Menses, in all Losses of Blood, Restlessness, Watchings, Gripes, &c. And a Decoction of the Tops, Heads, Leaves, and Seeds in Baths, Pedilavia, Fomentations, Poultises, Ointments, &c. in all external Pains, and in Watchings, Cramps, and Stiffnesses, (if not from Cold, or cold Causes, &c.)

[Page 234]

252.

POPPY WILD, or CORN POPPY (Papaver erraticum) cools powerfully, procures Sleep, and eases Pain; it is used in Fevers, Pleurisies (for which it is a specific Remedy) Quinsy, and other Diseases of the Br [...]ast; especially in irregular Discharge of the Menses. The Infusion of the Flowers in Spirit of Wine is very good. Some apply its bruised Leaves to the Liver, to stop Bleeding at the Nose. It affords a good distilled Water, Syrup, Conserve, and Extract, which are Specifics in a Pleurisy, and to quiet Ravings and Distraction in burning Fevers, inward Inflammations and Quinsy; but, when by its Use the violent Pain of a Pleurisy is removed, it must be left off, lest it stop Spitting; and expectorating Remedies must be used, for which, Juice of Horse-radish exceeds all other Things. Juice and Decoction of Dandelion and Chervil, with these Poppy Flowers, are also good; or their Syrup with Oil of Sweet Almonds, or Sperma-ceti, with the Yolk of an Egg, may be added, and made into an Emulsion. Tincture of Corn Poppies, with Camphire and Nitre, is good in a Phrenzy. This Syrup, with the middle Bark of Elder, is a powerful Causer of Sweat. The Tea, Infusion, or Tincture of the Flowers, is good in Rheums and Catarrhs on the Breast and Lungs. For a dry Cough, a Decoction of Bugloss and Dog-grass Roots, of each three Ounces, in two Quarts of Water; strain the Decoction on an Ounce of Corn Poppy Flowers, and on some white Poppy Heads, cut small, and put in a thin Rag to strain out.

253.

SEA or HORN'D POPPY. ( Papaver corniculatum luteum) The Seed taken in Mead, purges the Body [Page 235] gently. A Decoction of the Root in Water, to a Half, helps Obstructions of the Liver, and Pain of the Sciatica; it provokes Urine, and cures Water like Threads or Rags. The Leaves and Flowers cleanse foul Ulcers so powerfully, that they must not be applied to clean Ulcers, and take off Scurfs, &c. from ill dress'd Ulcers. The same with Oil cleanses the Eyes of Cattle that have Films over them. But observe the bad Effects of this Plant in Philosoph. Transact. No. 242. p. 263.

254.

PRIMROSES (wild yellow) or COWSLIPS, ( Paralysis) the Flowers are friendly to the Head and Nerves; they are used in the Palsy, Apoplexy, and Gout. Juice of the Flowers take Spots and Wrinkles off the Face, and other Faults of the Skin. The Water, Wine, Tea, and Conserve of the Flowers, are all Anodyne, and softly dispose to sleep; all appease Pain gently, induce Rest to Children, weak and tender Persons, especially in feverish Disorders. A Dram and a Half of the Root, gathered in Harvest, vomits safely, and brings up watery, choleric, and phlegmatic Humours. A Decoction of the Root in Posset Drink is a most powerful and present Remedy in a Vertigo. The express'd Juice of the Flowers and Leaves, drank often with as much Cows Milk, perfectly cured a most inveterate Head-ach. A Decoction of the Roots is good in the Stone. The Juice of the Leaves is good for inward Bruises, or Hurts; Conserve of the Flowers is excellent for Palsies, Convulsions, and Cramps; and so is a Decoction of the Leaves in a Bloody Flux. The Juice of the Root, snuff'd up the Nose, clears the Head, and cures the Megrim; but this Disease is more effectually cured by Juice of Crow's-foot Leaves, laid directly on the [Page 236] Part, through a Hole like a Silver Penny, in a sticking Plaister, the Hair shaved off under it. A Decoction of Primrose Leaves and Flowers, in Wine, is good in all Diseases of the Breast and Lungs. A Poultise of them draws out of the Flesh Thorns, Splinters, or Bones. Ointment of the Juice and Linseed Oil, cures all Burns and Scalds. The Flowers boiled in Vinegar, and applied, discuss Scrophulous Tumours. A Gargle of their Decoction, heals swell'd Throats. The Cowslips, whose Flowers have no Smell, are not used in Physic, says Sim. Pauli.

255.

PURSLANE ( Portulaca) is used in Sallads to allay the Heat of the Stomach, and check the Re [...]undance of Bile; it is therefore used in putrid and malignant Fevers, in the Heat of Urine, and for the Scurvy. It checks Lust, hinders venereal Dreams, and nocturnal Pollutions, therefore good for the Lovers of Chastity, and the too Lascivious. The Leaves eaten raw, fasten loose Teeth, and cure such as are set on Edge; it is good for Children that have Worms, but must not be given too liberally, for its Coldness and Moistness causes it soon to putrefy on the Stomach, and relax its Tone. Galen advises its Use in hot Agues, to stop bilious Fluxes, Womens Menses, Fluor albus, Gonorrhoea, Defluxions from the Head, Want of Sleep, and Phrenzy. The Seed is better than the Herb, and is very good for Heat and Sharpness of Urine, and to restrain excessive Leachery. The Juice of the Herb is good in Inflammations and Ulcers of the private Parts of both Sexes, if injected by a Syringe. The bruised Herb, applied to the Temples and Forehead, eases excessive Heat and Pain, from Want of Sleep or Rest. It takes away Redness [Page 237] and Inflammation of the Eyes. The Juice with Vinegar cools those Parts where Pustules, Wheals, amd Pimples break forth, the Juice with Oil of Roses, is good for Womens sore Breasts; for Burns by Gunpowder, or by Lightning. The thickened Juice, made into Pills with Gum Tragacanth and Arabic, and taken, is good against making Bloody Urine; some use the distilled Water for the Tooth-ach.

256.

QUINCE-TREE. (Cydonia) The Fruit, from its noble Astringency, is most agreeable to the Stomach; it is good in a Coeliaca, and for them that have Bloody Fluxes or Bilious, or Spitting of Blood, and in all Kinds of Fluxes; but its Bracing and Astringency, is much lessened by Boiling. Eaten before Meat it binds the Belly, but after Meat it loosens it. In hot Fevers, when the Gullet is parch'd and Swallowing hurt, a Mucilage of the Seed made with Frog-spawn Water is excellent. Though the Fruit binds, yet it provokes Urine; but in a Heat of Urine, either with or without an Ulcer, it must be refrained. The Wine of Quinces is astringent, grateful to the Stomach, Bowels, and Kidneys. The Marmalade, often eaten, is good for Women with Child, for it not only strengthens the Infant, and gives it a fine Complexion, but prevents Abortion, and causes quick and easy Labour to the Mother. The Juice boiled up gently to the Consistence of a Syrup, and Half an Ounce of it given to Infants, and more to the grown up, fetches up tough Phlegm from the Lungs; or gives a very mild Puke, or moves the Belly, and strengthens the Sick. Sylvius extols it highly. The Seed sprinkled and softened with Rose Water, and brought to a thick Mucilage, is good for Burns and Parching of the [Page 238] Tongue, Mouth, and Throat, in Fevers, and for the Pain of the Piles, in Clysters, and for chapped Nipples. If a little Vinegar be added to the Juice, Syrup, or Conserve, it rouses a flagged Appetite; and, if some Spices be added, it strengthens and raises the Spirits, and helps the languid Viscera. To make them more loosening, use Honey instead of Sugar, and a little Rhubarb or Turbith to purge Phlegm, or Scammony for Water. If to bind more, use unripe Quinces, with red Roses and Sloe Juice, with toasted Rhubarb. Their Juice is a wonderful Antidote against deadly Poison, especially of white Hellebore. Their Oil rubbed on the Stomach, Belly, or relaxed Sinews, strengthens them much. A Decoction of their Down, in Wine, heals up Plague Sores; or, used in a Plaister, with Wax, and applied, restores Hair to bald Places, or prevents its falling off. A Poultise of its Pulp laid warn to a pestilential Carbuncle, cures it; or Radish Root, cut and applied, draws out the Poison powerfully.

257.

RAG-WORT or RAG-WEED, St. JAMES'S-WORT, STAGGER-WORT, &c. ( Jacobaea) is warm and bitter, it cleanses, dries, digests, and discusses. Its Decoction, used in a Gargle▪ is said to cure Sores and Ulcers in the Mouth, Tonsils, and Throat. But Sim. Pauli rejects it for its Bitterness, and substitutes Throat-wort for it, with Strawberry Leaves and Self-heal; or, if it be designed to discuss with Warmers, he advises Origanum, Hyssop, Rosemary, &c. Fomentations and Poultises of it are fit for Swellings and Imposthumations; it cleanses and heals them, Quinsy and King's-evil. The Juice quickly heals green Wounds, cleanses and cures old filthy Ulcers in any Part, stops fretting [Page 239] Cankers and Fistula's. It is very serviceable for Aches and Pains of the Muscles, Tendons, and Nerves; and either fomenting the Part with its Decoction, or anointing it with its Ointment, is good for the Sciatica. It is said to be a certain Remedy for the Staggers in Horses, but it and Groundsel in a Poultise with Vinegar and Lard, applied to hard and inflamed Breasts, either from a Blow, or Milk curdled in them, even where a Cancer is threatened, has surprising Success. Sim. Pauli knew a Surgeon who cured an epidemic Camp Dysentery with its Decoction. Some laid a Poultise of it to the Belly for the Gripes▪ and he owns it to be excellent in that Disease; and would have it with other Sarcotics, used in Clysters for Excoriations of the Bowels.

RAG-WEED. We have not this Species growing in our Provinces, that I know of.

258.

RASP or HIND BERRIES (Rubus Idaeus) are much the same as Brambles, but far pleasanter to the Taste, and more cordial, and less astringent. Their Syrup, Jam, or Conserve, are good in ardent Fevers, being cooling, cordial, and highly grateful. They afford a good Wine in a Weak Stomach, Looseness, several Disorders of the Jaws, Gums, Uvula, Palate, &c. They that are troubled with often Vomitings should eat this Fruit, and lay a Poultise of the Leaves on the Stomach. A Decoction of the tender Leaves, or the Leaves bruised and laid on, and their distilled Water drank, ease and relieve all Inflammations. Though this Bush affords a more grateful and cordial Fruit than the black Sort, viz. The Bramble, yet it is not so useful and medicinal. Rasp-berries abound with Sulphur, and volatile Salt, they are therefore diaphoretic. N. B. The Berries putrefy soonest of most Fruit, breed Worms fastest, and they and Strawberries [Page 240] should never be eaten unwash'd. Drinking freely of their Wine, gives a violent Head-ach.

259.

RADISHES ( Raphanus hortensis) the Roots warm, dry, open, thin, and cleanse; they are used to break and expel the Stone, provoke Urine and Menses, open Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen; they thin Slime and Phlegm in the Stomach, promote the Distribution of the Chyle and Humours. They are applied with Salt to the Soles in Fevers, and to the Neck in Pains of the Head, that attend malignant Fevers. If in the Wane of the Moon Corns are cut to the quick 'till they smart, and the Juice of this Root is dropped on them, they certainly vanish. Applied in a Poultise with Goose-grease, they draw Thorns and Splinters out of the Flesh. Taken with Honey they ease a Cough, and are reckoned good against the Poison of Toad-stools and Hen-bane. The Juice given with Honey to drink, is good for Childrens Coughs, and Shortness of Breath. Two Ounces of the Garden Root, shred, and Mead poured on it, and the express'd Juice given warm; or rather three Drams of the Seed bruised, and Mead, Whey, or Barley Water, poured on it, and squeez'd off and drank, Fernelius says, is the easiest and safest Vomit in the World. Four Ounces of Radish Water, drank daily twice a Day, cures the Stone, and is good for a Dropsy; or for the Stone, Take Juice of the Root, three or four Ounces; Honey, one Ounce; mix and repeat it three Mornings; or the Root cut into Slices, and boil'd over a slow Fire with Honey; four Ounces of the Water running from them, is good to drink; or take an Once of the Bark of the Root; Medlar Stones, two Drams; infuse them eight Hours in four [Page 241] Ounces of white Wine; then drink it moderately warm, it is a great Secret against the Stone. The Root is also good for the Scurvy and Dropsy, and in Sallads. For a bad or depraved Taste, preserv'd Roots of Succory are good eaten; or Juice or Syrup of Sorrel; or Radish Root eaten before Dinner. Juice of Radishes, but chiefly of Water Cresses, or Tents dipped in the Juice of Wake-Robin, are all three good for a Polypus, if put up the Nose. Assuerus gives us this excellent Water for the Stone: Take Roots of Smallage and Parsley, Cum toto, of each six Handfuls; Radish and Horse-radish, Onions and Nettles, of each three Handfuls; Juniper Berries, a Pound; Winter Cherries, fifty; cut, bruise, and infuse, eight Days in Rhenish Wine, then distil in Baln. Mar. and put up for Use. Sim. Pauli from Quercetan gives the following for the Scurvy: Take Decoction of Barley or Barley Water, two Pounds; Rhenish Wine Half a Pint; Horse Radish Roots sliced, four Ounces; Scurvy-grass, three Handfuls; Water Cresses, a Handful; or Scurvy-grass and Cress-seeds, of each two Drams; cut, bruise, and infuse all for twelve Hours in a warm Place, then mash the whole, and without the least Boiling express the Juice strongly in a good Press, and, instead of his Norway Spirit of Mulberries and Syrup, add Aq. Raphan. Rustic. Dose two Drams Evening and Morning to the Poor.

260.

RADISH (Horse) (Raphanus Rusticanus) has the like Virtues, but is stronger, therefore far more used and depended on, in all the above Cases. The Root expels Urine, Sand, and Gravel; it is also commended for a Cough and Consumption, and repeated is a Specific in the Scurvy. Its Juice or Infusion, in Honey and Vinegar, drank warm, [Page 242] is certainly one of the best Vomits in the World for a palled Stomach loaded with Phlegm, but especially where the Breast is oppressed with much thick tough Phlegm. This Root is highly extolled in the Stone. Bartholine says, its Juice dissolves the Stone taken out of the Body. It is a good Stomachic, and brings down the Menses. The Juice drank, and laid to the Navel, kills Worms in Children. A Poultise of it laid to the Navel and Loins relieves in a Dropsy. If drank, and repeated several times before the Fit of a Quartan, it alters its Course. A Poultise of it, beaten up and applied, is good in the Sciatica, Gout, and other Joint Achs, and for Swellings of the Spleen and Liver. Some use the distill'd Water of the Root for all these Intentions. But its Juice drank exceeds all Things in a Pleurisy, to cause Spitting after the Pain.

261.

ROCKET ( Eruca) gives Sallads a fine Taste, and the same it does to Sauces and Seasonings; it is grateful to the Palate, excites Lust, and is said to increase Seed; the Leaves boiled, and a little Sugar put to them, are thought to be good for Childrens Coughs. The Seed, bruised and drank with Wine, kills Worms, and heals the Swelling of the Spleen. The bruised Leaves put on the Eye-lids clear the Sight. The Seed mixed with Honey, and anointed on the Face, takes off all Spots and Scurfs, but more effectually if Ox Gall be mixed with it. Mathiolus says a Poultise of the Roots, boiled in Water, draws out Splinters or Bones. But Bauhinus prefers the Leaves here. Some use daily a Powder of Rocket and Cummin, to preven [...] [...]n Apoplexy and Palsy. The wild Rocket is hotter and more acrid than that of the Garden; they cut, thin, [Page 243] and rarify tough Phlegm, and put up the Nose cause Sneezing.

ROCKET▪ Is a Garden Herb in Europe. I had it growing once; but the Winter ki [...]led it.

262.

ROSA SOLIS ( Ros Solis) or Sun-dew; some extol its Sweat or Juice in Consumptions, but I should be sorry to use it, or any such acrid, almost caustic Medicine, in so dangerous a Disease; or in any Case internally; but outwardly it may be used for Pain or Inflammation of the Eyes. Hoffman says, it breaks the Stone in the Bladder and Reins, and removes a Dropsy, by carrying off the Water. Ray says, if it is gathered when the Sun is in the Middle of Leo, dry it, put it in a Bag, and lay on the Breast, it is a Secret against Bleeding of the Nose. Schroder knew some who used its Infusion in Aqua Vitae for an ordinary Cordial; and Gerard says, if it is distilled with Wine and aromatic Spices, the Water is a fine Cordial; however, it is fatal to Sheep that eat much of it, for it spoils their Lungs.

ROSA SOLIS. This is very scarce, and only to be found growing in Bog Moss.

263.

ROSES ( Rosa) red, whilst green, have a watery laxative Juice, which they lose when dry, and are then astringent. But Damask Roses retain their purging Quality, when dry. Roses, being a great Cordial, are beneficial in Tremors and Palpitations of the Heart; they invigorate Heart, Liver, Kidnies, and all the weak Viscera; stop Female Discharges, Haemorrhages, and all Fluxes of the Belly. Their Tincture, acidulated with Spirit of Vitriol, checks immoderate Sweating, as well as Spitting and Vomiting of Blood, or Bleeding at the Nose. A Dram or two of their Powder, taken twice a Day in Plantain Water, cures obstinate Fluxes. Their Leaves laid under the Back at Night [Page 244] check Lust, and diminish Seed. Damask Rose Water is good in all Inflammations and Rheums of the Eyes. The expressed Juice of ripe red Roses, dried and powdered, is excellent in both Sorts of Uterine Fluxes. Preparations of Roses are good in Consumptions and Diseases of the Lungs, in Fluxes of the Belly, in Fevers, Losses of Blood, Wounds, Inflammations, Weakness of the Stomach and Bowels, Sweatings, &c. Rose Water and Oil of Roses, boiled till the first is wasted, then rubbed on the shaven Head of mad Persons, sometimes induces Rest, when Opiates either fail or are injurious. Syrup of Damask Roses is a pleasant Laxative for Children, weak People, and in hot Fevers. Their Water is a great Cordial and Reviver of the Spirits. Syrup of dried red Roses is a great Astringent, as is the Syrup of their Juice. Who want to see or know more of them may consult Clusius, Parkinson, Monardus, Sim. Pauli, &c.

264.

ROSEMARY ( Rosmarinus) Leaves, Flowers, and Seeds, are all in Use; it stands at the Head of the Cephalic, Nervous, and Uterine Plants, being good in Diseases of all the three, as in Apoplexy, Palsy, Epilepsy, Lethargy, Vertigo, Hysterics, &c. It sharpens the Sight, strengthens the Senses and Memory, helps a disagreeable Breath, opens most powerfully Obstructions of Liver, Spleen and Uterus; comforts the Heart, and is good in the Jaundice and Fluor albus. The Fumigation of the Herb corrects a pestilential Air. The Seed drank in Wine is good for the Jaundice. Dioscorides says, the Herb cures the King's-evil, if the Patient drink a Decoction of it in Water, before Exercise; and, after Exercise, let him wash, and drink a little Wine. The Infusion of the Herb in Wine, Beer, or Ale, [Page 245] is good in a Palsy for common Drink. So is a Decoction of Fir-tops, or a daily Tea of the Buds, drank in a Scorbutic Palsy. The Flowers, eaten with Salt and Bread fasting, strengthen a weak Sight. The dried Plant smoaked like Tobacco, is good in a Cough. Its Chymical Oil given from four to six Drops, in a Decoction of the Herb before the Fit, cures Tertian Agues. The Herb is of a thinning and cleansing Nature, cuts all thick and gross phlegmatic Humours, and opens obstructed Passages; [...]ence, besides the above Diseases, it is good in Deafness, Asthma's, Inflammation of the Stomach, Cholic, Barrenness, and Green Sickness. The Flowers and Leaves boiled in Wine and Honey till Half the Liquor is wasted, then strained and drank at going to Bed, is excellent for an Asthma, and Hoarseness. It also cures Rheums, and Putrefactions of the Teeth and Gums. An Infusion of it in red Wine has cured a Looseness of three Months Continuance. That noble, reviving, Cephalic Liquor, called the Queen of Hungary's Water, is drawn from its Flowers. An Ointment made of the Herb is good in cold Diseases of the Limbs and Joints, or any other Part. The Chymical Oil is good for the same as the Herb, but, being so very hot, it must be used cautiously. A Decoction of the Herb drank, is good in the Fluor albus. The Herb beaten up to a Paste, and made up like two Balls, daily held in the Hand till they are warmed, cures their Weakness. As a Fomentation of the Decoction of Mug-wort, or St. John's Wort helps their Shaking, especially if a Tincture of St. John's Wort be taken inwardly at the same Time. A Decoction of its Leaves and Flowers, and Elecampane Root, is good in a Paraplegias; or a Decoction or Tea of Sassafras Root. A Decoction of its Leaves and Flowers, [Page 246] or of Lavender, or of Betony, with Juniper Berries, are all good in a Palsy. The Herb is biting and bitter, and a little astringent. The following Empyrical Medicine has sometimes been serviceable in a Cough: Take Powder of Rosemary, of Flowers of Betony, Flowers of Sulphur, of Sugar-candy, of each Half an Ounce; Powders of Liquorice, Elecampane, Horehound, Aniseed, of each three Drams; of Colt's-foot, four Drams; Flowers of Benjamin, two Scruples; with Honey make an Electuary, and take. Others extol this greatly, either in a Catarrh, raging tearing Cough, or Asthma, either in Man or Beast: Take Powder of Rosemary, Liquorice, Elecampane, Anise, and brown Sugar-candy, of each two Ounces; Figs and stoned Raisins of the Sun, of each two Ounces and a Half; Oil of Sweet Almonds, Linseed Oil, Aniseed Oil, or, (if it is a meer salt Rheum and Distillation without Phlegm) Oil of Sulphur, by the Bell, instead of Anise Oil, of each two Ounces; common Melasses Treacle, Half a Pound; first beat the Figs and Raisins into a Pulp, then add the rest, beat till all is well mixed, then put up in an earthen Pot, and cover it with a Bladder; Dose to a Man the Bigness of a Nutmeg, to a Horse an Ounce in some Liquor.

265.

RUE ( Ruta) or the Country Man's Treacle, contains much exalted Oil and volatile Salt. It cuts, thins, and discusses Humours, resists Poison, pestilential and contagious Diseases; strengthens the Brain, promotes the Menses; curbs excessive Venery; is good against Vapours, and windy Cholic, for the Bite of Serpents, venomous Insects, and a Mad Dog. It is used inwardly and outwardly. It warms and dries powerfully. It sharpens the Sight, [Page 247] is good for a weak Stomach, and all Diseases of the Nerves, eases Pleuritic Pains, and expels Wind. Outwardly it is laid to the Wrists in Agues, to the Bite of a Mad Dog, to Carbuncles, to the Head in a Megrim, and to the Soles of the Feet in burning and malignant Fevers. Women with Child must not be too free with it. Its Decoction in Wine is a good Gargle for rotten Teeth, and scorbutic Gums. It is a great Preserver of Chastity. It strengthens Sight much. Its Infusion in Wine, drank, is a good Pr [...]servation against the Plague, malignant and epidemic Diseases. A Drop of its Oil, given Children on Sugar, kills Worms. An Ounce of its Juice, with Half an Ounce of Honey of Squills, is a present Remedy in the Falling Sickness; for which Rue, but chiefly its Seed, is much commended. Its Syrup or Conserve is good in Diseases of the Head and Stomach. So is its Infusion in white Wine, to promote the Menses. Rue beaten up with the White and Yolk of an Egg, fried and laid to the Navel, is good in Hysterics. A Decoction of Wild and stone Rue is noted for expelling Stone and Gravel. The Seed is said to be an Antidote against all dangerous Medicines, Poisons, or Diseases, especially if Figs and Walnuts be added to it. Rue Leaves, eaten, sweeten the Breath after eating Garlick, Onions, Leeks, or Shallots. A Decoction of it, with dry Dill Leaves and Flowers, drank, and applied warm to any Part, eases all Pains and Tortures. The same drank relieves the Pains of the Breast, Sides, Difficulty of Breathing, a Cough, the tearing Pains of the Sciatica, and of the Joints, if at the same Time a Liniment of the Herb and Juice, with Lard and Camphire, be rubbed on and applied. Its Decoction or Infusion in Oil, given in Clysters, eases the windy Cholic, and Flatulency; Hardness or Swelling of the Uterus, [Page 248] and Hysteric Fits; if at the same Time some of the Oil be rubbed on the Sharebone and Belly. A Poultise of it to the Hands or Feet is good in the Gout. A Fomentation of it and Wormwood is good in a Dropsy, Gangrene, or Tendency to a Mortification. The bruised Leaves, put up the Nose, stop its Bleeding. A Fomentation of its Decoction, with Bay Leaves, is good for swelled Cods. Its Decoction in Wine, with Pepper and Nitre, takes away Warts and Morphews from the Parts bathed with it. Its Decoction in Water, with Allum and Honey, cures the dry Scab, Tetters and Ringworms. Its Juice warmed in a Pomegranate Rind, and dropped into pained Ears, eases them. Juices of Rue and Fennel, with a little Honey and Ox Gall, mixed and dropped into the Eyes, helps Dimness of Sight. An Ointment of it cures running Sores on the Head, and foul Ulcers on other Parts. An Electuary of Rue, Nitre, Pepper, and prepared Cummin Seeds, made with Honey, is good for Pains of the Breast, Stomach, Sides, Belly, Spleen or Liver, and in Stoppage of Urine, and helps to prevent too great Corpulency. In a Cholic from Viscidity or Acidity of the Contents of the Guts give this: Take Powder of Rue, Sal Gem. of each alike; Honey, enough to make it into Pills to take; or use his notable Secret: Take Leaves of wild Fig-tree, growing on the Ground, Half a Dram; Elm Leaves, a Scruple; powder, mix, and give; it is like a Charm in Nephritic Pains. And a Tincture of Sassafras Bark, or of Ground-ivy drawn in Brandy; Dose two Spoonfuls; it expels Wind from the Stomach in a Minute. It is very good in St Vitus's Dance.

266.

RUPTURE-WORT, ( Herniaria) the Juice drank, [Page 249] or the Herb eaten, or bruised, and laid on Plaister Ways, helps the Bite of Vipers. A Plaister of it is excellent in Ruptures. The distilled Water helps the Liver, and cures the Jaundice in eight Days. The Decoction or Water is good for the Stone, and Tooth-ach. ^*

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267.

SAFFRON (Crocus) Flowers taken in a moderate Dose quicken the Senses, shake off Dulness, but too much cause Watchings, Sleepiness, or Pain of the Head. As they have done good Service in eruptive Fevers, so no doubt great Mischief, as in the Small Pox and Measles, it is doubtful whether this, and the hot Regimen, or the Distemper have been most fatal, from Paracelsus to Sydenham. All agree that Saffron is a great Cordial, and causes Chearfulness; it opens the Lungs, frees them from Obstructions, and digests and promotes Expectoration of tough Phlegm; hence it is useful in Consumptions, Cough and Asthma, but let Care be taken that it exasperate not the Hectic or Peripneumony, or other Symptoms [...]ttending. It is no less beneficial in a Shortness of Breath coming suddenly without a Fever. It deserves the greatest Praise in Obstructions of the Liver and Gall. It brings down the Terms, Birth, and After-birth, provokes Urine, and excites Venery. Outwardly in Poultises and Plaisters, it eases Pains, discusses Tumours, and allays Inflammations; is good for Ach [...]s of the Ears or Eyes, in Breast Milk, Rose or Fennel Water, and checks the Flux of Humours to them. Its Success in a Jaundice, and hard Labour, has been long tried and known, and in expelling Measles and Small Pox, when needful; and laid under the Chin to prevent Inflammation, and Translation of the Matter to the Lungs or Windpipe; and laid on Poultises to ease Pain, or promote Suppuration. Its Dose in Substance inwardly, from one to ten Grains. It is given in Powder, Tincture, Spirit, Extract, Tea, or Syrup; or it is put in Pills, Powders, Electuaries, Boluses, Draughts, &c. It is excellent in Poultises and [Page 251] Plaisters for the Sciatica, Gout, and red, fiery, painful Swellings, that resist both Discussers and Suppurators. Ten Grains of it, and two of Musk, are wonderful in an Asthma. In hard Labour Rhasis gave its Powder to two Drams with great Success; but Sav [...]narola blames such a Quantity, seeing these Drams are fatal. It is not to be used in acute Fevers with a Phrenzy and obstinate Watchings; yet it is a wonderful Cordial never to be enough praised. It is excellent in Tremors and Palpitations of the Heart, Dulness, Lowness of Spirits, Hypo, Terms stopp'd, too sparing or irregular.

268.

SANICLE (Sanicula) is a chief Vulnerary; it is of a hot, dry, bitter, and rough Taste. It is used inwardly and outwardly, in vulnerary Decoctions; and for Wounds, Eruptions of Blood, Ulcers, Bloody Fluxes, and Ruptures, both drank, and applied. Its Decoction in red Wine, is with Success applied to Childrens started Navels, made and applied in a Poultise, and a Poultise of fresh Comfry Root, bruised and laid to the Back opposite to it. The Herb is used for Fistula's, Ulcers, and Erosions, taken inwardly, and used outwardly. It is said to give the speediest, and surest Relief where the Lungs or Throat are affected, or putrid or stinking Ulcers infest these or the privy Parts, by gargling the first, and washing the last with its Decoction in Wine, or with Honey. It stops the Terms, and all Fluxes by the Mouth or Stool. It cures Ulcers of the Kidneys, or Pains of the Bowels. It is as powerful in binding, restraining, healing, heating, and drying, as Comfry, Self-heal, or any of the Astringents. It contains much Oil and essential Salt. It is chiefly used in Decoction, and may [Page 252] be used outwardly in Juice, Poultise, Ointment, Plaisters, &c. to Wounds, Ulcers, Ruptures, &c. Boerhaave says, it is a most excellent Plant for curing of Wounds, having a gentle balsamic Virtue, joined to its astringent Quality. It may be drank as Tea.

269.

SAGE (Salvia) Leaves, well washed, are often eaten in the Spring, with Bread and Butter; its Tea is also common. Trembling or Shaking of the Hands is great [...] relieved by often washing them in the Decoction or Infusion of Sage. Sim. Pauli says a Decoction of a Handful of it, two Drams of the best Tobacco, and a Pugil or two of dried Barley Meal, in Alegar, is an excellent Gargle, to wash the Mouth and Teeth, when they ach. Three Spoonfuls of [...]ge Juice, taken fasting with a little Honey, presently stop Spitting or Vomiting of Blood. The following Pills are commended in Consumptions, viz▪ Spikenard and Ginger, of each two Drams; Seeds of Sage, a little toasted at the Fire, eight Drams; of Long Pepper, twelve Drams; powder all, and with Sage Juice make a Mass of Pills. Dose a Dram Evening and Morning. The Juice often used, is good for a Palsy of the Tongue. Mathiolus says, Sage is very effectual in all Pains of the Head, from cold Rheums, and for the Pains of the Joints, whether used inwardly or outwardly; therefore it is good in the Falling Sickness, and Lethargy, and for such as are dull, heavy, or paralytic, or are troubled with Defluxions and Distillations of Rheum from the Head; and for Diseases of the Breast, Sage and Nettle-Leaves, bruised and laid on Imposthumes behind the Ears, mitigate and ease the Pain much. Sage Juice, drank in warm Water, cures [Page 253] Hoarseness and Cough. The Leaves boiled in Wine, and laid on any paralytic Part, and the Liquor drank, are of special Service. Sage both brings down the Menses, and checks their superfluous Discharge. It is good in the Stings and Bites of Serpents, and kills Worms bred in the Ears, or in Sores. Sage warms and quickens the Senses, and so strengthens the Memory, either in Infusion, Powder, Electuary, or Conserve. For the Fluor albus; Take Powders of Sage, Sarsaparilla, and Balaustins, of each alike; mix; Dose a Dram in a Morning several Days. A too moist Uterus is helped, by taking every Morning two or three Spoonfuls of Sage Juice, with a little Salt; this both cures Barrenness, and too frequent Abortions from that great Moisture and Laxness, but I should prefer a little Allum to the Salt. The Juice is also good in a bad or infected Air. Its Decoction, drank, facilitates the Birth, forwards the Menses, and expels Urine.

270.

WOOD SAGE, WILD SAGE, or GARLICK SAGE, (Scorodonia) Its Decoction provokes Urine and Menses. It is a chief Vulnerary, whether taken inwardly, or applied outwardly. Its Virtues are much the same with Scordium. Gesner prefers it to Scordium, and Hildanus extols it wonderfully in gangrenous Ulcers, and substitutes it to Scordium, but in a double Quantity. Some in the Lues Venerea use its Decoction, because it causes Sweat, digests and dissipates the Humours, Swellings, and Nodes in the Flesh. A Decoction of the green Herb is a safe and sure Cure to disperse and void coagulated Blood from Falls, Bruises, or Blows; and, if any Vessel is overstretched, it heals it. It is also a good Remedy for the Palsy. The Juice [Page 254] and Powder of the Herb, is good for most Ulcers and Sores on the Legs. It is as effectual in curing green Wounds. The Leaves are bitter and aromatic, with a faint Taste of Garlick. It is a very opening, diaphoretic, resolvent, and vulnerary Plant; wherefore Tragus commends its Infusion in Wine to strengthen the Stomach, kill Worms, provoke Urine, cure the Jaundice, and some Tertians. It is used in Paris for a Dropsy, drinking every four Hours a Glass of its Infusion in Wine; in which Disease the Pulv. Bufon. calcinat. given to a Scruple, is much commended. But especially the Juice of the Herb Kali, given to Half a Dram, thrice a Week; or a Spoonful of the Ova Formicar. boiled in Butter-Milk, and drank with Sugar, or Juice of Lemons, six Ounces; of Scurvy Grass Half an Ounce; of Liver-wort, Plantain, and Syrup of Violets, of each two Ounces; mix, and Dose four Ounces every three Hours.

SCORODONIA. It grows only in botanical Gardens in our Provinces.

271.

SARACENS CONSOUND or WOUND-WORT ( Solidago Saracenica) is a warming, drying Vulnerary, of the first Rank, not inferior to Bugle, or Sanicle. Its Decoction in Wine, cures Obstructions of the Liver; is good in a Jaundice, and beginning Dropsy, and all internal Ulcers, Wounds, and Bruises, in any Part of the Body.

272.

DORIAS WOUND-WORT is of the same Sort, but not so powerful; and may be used in the room of them, or they for it, in all the like Cases.

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SAVINE (Sabina) Its distilled Water clears off all Spots of the Face. Some commend it for a Vertigo. Its Powder with Honey, applied to running Ulcers, heals them, and cleanses black and foul Ulcers. The Powder mixed with Cream, cures scabby and scald Heads. It too powerfully expels Menses, Birth and After birth. Its Oil anointed on the Belly, or its Leaves bruised and applied to the Navel, or its Decoction drank, all kill Worms in Children; or a Spoonful of its Juice, drank in Milk, rarely fails, being almost infallible for that Intent in Horses and Beasts.

274.

SAVOURY ( Satureia) being of a hot and biting Taste and Smell, is reckoned heating and drying, of the Nature of Hyssop and wild Thyme. It thins, opens, and discusses, provokes Urine and Menses; is good in Disorders of the Stomach, as Crudity and Nauseating. In cold Constitutions it is good in an Asthma. It sharpens the Sight, provokes Venery, externally it discusses hard cold Tumours, and eases the Ear-ach. Strewed in Beds, it is said to kill Fleas. It is good for Hysterics, expels Wind, and eaten, or smell'd to, it is good for Women with Child. It promotes Expectoration of tough Phlegm. The Juice, snuffed up the Nose, is good in a Lethargy. The Juice, with Oil of Roses, dropped into the Ears, eases their Noise and Singing. A Poultise of it with Flour, applied to the Sciatica, or a paralytic Member, is good. It has a fine Taste in Meat, but apt to upbraid the Eater. Its Decoction, or the express'd Juice of Turneps, is excellent in the Thrush.

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275.

SAW-WORT ( Serratula) is good for such as are inwardly or outwardly bruised, or have some Blood vessels broken by Falls, Blows, &c. It stays Bleeding, eases Pain and Soreness thereby, if either its green Leaves be boiled, or their Powder taken in white Wine. A Decoction of its Leaves and Roots in Wine, drank, wonderfully eases Gripes in the Bowels. It speedily cures fresh Wounds, and cleanses and heals old Ones, or filthy Sores, if the Decoction is both drank and washed with. Its Decoction drank, washed with, and a Plaister of the Root and Herb applied, is good in Ruptures. A Lotion of its Decoction in Wine is good in swelled painful Piles, after Leeches have been applied.

SAW-WORT. This Species grows no where that I have observed in these Provinces.

276.

SAXIFRAGE ( Saxifraga) warms and dries very powerfully, is diuretic and opening; it is chiefly used to waste and expel Stone, Sand, and Gravel; and to thin the Mucilage that gathers in the Kidnies and Bladder. It is given for Terms obstructed, and used outwardly in diuretic Baths. A nitrous Spirit from the fixed Salt of the Plant is commended. The Roots are infused or boiled in white Wine for the above Uses. It is said to hasten the Menses, and to cut and dissolve thick Phlegm in the Lungs. The Root contains much Salt and Oil, which cause its Heat in the Mouth. Boyle commends Mountain Saxifrage, infused in Small Beer, to drink some Time for the Kings-evil. He says it cures without any sensible Evacuation, by wasting the Humour, easing the Pain, discussing the Swelling, and drying up the Ulcers. Then it must be very cleansing, and gently promote Perspiration and Urine; the whole Plant affords an useful Water. The first Saxifrage, here meant, [Page 257] is the white round leafed Saxifrage, of a pale yellow Colour; the other has a Leaf cut into three Segments.

SAXIFRAGE. This Species is very difficult to keep in Gardens; it soon goes off; we have no Plant like it in Woods or F [...]elds.

277.

SCABIOUS ( Scabiosa) its Decoction in Wine, or its Juice, is good in Imposthumes, Cough, Pleurisy, and other Diseases of the Breast, and in a Shortness of Breath, Quinsy, &c. But it is chiefly designed against Scab and Itch. The Herb is Alexipharmac, Sudorific, Opening, Cleansing, and Vulnerary. It promotes Spitting when the Lungs are stuffed with thick, tough Phlegm. ^* From [Page 258] three to six Ounces of the Juice, with a Dram of Treacle, and ten Grains of Camphire, is a powerful Sudorific. A Syrup of Scabious Juice is good for Diseases of the Skin, provided the Body is bathed [Page 259] with a Decoction of the Plant at the same Time. The Decoction sweetened with a Syrup of its Juice, drank, is also good for Ulcers of the Bladder, or [Page 260] other Viscera, and to wash Wounds. To ripen all inward Imposthumes, and to carry them off by Urine, make an Infusion all Night in a Quart of Wine or Water, of a Handful of the dried Herb, Liquorice scrap'd and cut, one Ounce; Figs wash'd and cut, Number twelve; Seeds of Anise and Fennel, of each an Ounce; Orrice Root, Half an Ounce; next Day boil away a Third, strain and sweeten with Sugar or Honey, and drink a Draught hereof every Morning; or use only the Syrup of its Juice fasting, for an Abscess of the Liver; as a Dram of powdered common Dock Root, drank every Morning, is good for a weak Liver; or a Decoction of whole Strawberry Plant, drank, is good in an obstructed Liver; or Hop-tops, eaten in the Spring; or a Fomentation of the Decoction of Cross wort is good for a Schirrous Liver. A Poultise of the Herb, laid to Plague Sores, dissolves or breaks them in three Hours. A Decoction of the Root, or its Powder, drank forty Days, helps such as have dangerous running or spreading Scabs, Tetters, or Ringworms. The Juice or Decoction of the whole Plant, drank, and an Ointment of it used outwardly, cures Scab, Itch, &c. It is also good in all inward Wounds. Its Syrup may be kept and used in Winter. The said Decoction helps all hard, cold Tumours, and shrunk Sinews. The Juice, with Borax and Camphire, cleanses the Skin and Face from Freckles, Pimples, &c. and, [Page 261] with Fennel Juice, helps Redness and Spots in the White of the Eyes. It is also good for Scald Heads. The Juice heals green Wounds, and old Sores. The Herb, bruised and laid on, loosens Splinters, or other Things in Wounds, and makes them be easily drawn out. In the cure of Diseases attended with Malignity, Scabious yields to no Herb, and Fallopius would never have it neglected in the Cure of Carbuncles.

278.

DEVIL'S-BIT ( Morsus Diaboli) is Alexipharmac and Vulnerary. Its Gargle is famed for a slow ripening Quinsey; and, in Tumours of the Tonsils, both its Juice, and Decoction, are good. It is celebrated in the Epilepsy, Plague, Pain of the Uterus, coagulated Blood, hidden Abscesses, &c. The Root is bitter and styptic, yet it expels the Menses. It is a Scabious, and of the more powerful Sort answering all Purposes that they do. Pained Arms rubbed with this Juice, warm, are much relieved; or the Steam of boiled Oats, one Fourth of an Hour to the Arms, then the warm Oats applied about the Arm, this do Evening and Morning for a Week.—SCORDIUM. See GERMANDER.

I never saw thi [...] Species of Devil's-bit, in my Travels: There are several different Plants so called.

279.

SCURVY-GRASS ( Coch [...]aria) called by Pliny, Britannica; but Munting [...]us will have that to be the great Water Dock. Scurvy-grass, or Spoon-wort, is hot and biting, abounds with volatile Salt, whereby it thins tough fixed Humours, and makes them volatile. Its Juice, Infusion, or Sallad, (if eatable) is good in a cold Scurvy, but is as injurious in the hot inflammatory Kind. It is a good Herb in the Hypo, and tartarous Diseases, [Page 262] and greatly resists Putrefaction. It should not be infused above four or five Days in Beer or Wine, till it be taken out. Such slight Infusions should be the constant Spring-drink in cold Scurvies, or where Phlegm, or fixed Salts, abound in the Juices, which is too often the Case of the Inhabitants of low Fenny, Marshy Grounds, especially Sea Coasts, and Eaters of Salt Fish, and Smoke-dried Meat. The bruised Herb and Juice, laid to the Face, takes off Spots in six or eight Hours; then it must be washed off with Bran. It with spirituous Spices, but especially its plain Spirit, wonderfully nourishes the Parts disordered by the Epilepsy, Cramps, or Convulsions. The Juice, with burnt Allum, is excellent to rub scorbutic, or swelled Gums with; or, in Want of this, a Decoction of Stone-crop, with Allum and Honey, is every whit as good. Its Conserve, Infusion, or Juice, are the only Forms in which Country People can preserve it; for the Fire spoils its Syrup or Extract. In violent Scorbutic Pains of the Joints or Muscles, Sim. Pauli gives this efficacious Fomentation, or Bath, from Brucaeus: Take bruised Juniper Berries, Water Mint, both the Cardamons, Winter Cresses, and Scurvy-grass, of each two Handfuls; Camomile Flowers, three Handfuls; Mugwort, Baum, Rosemary, Thyme, Hyssop, Marjoram, of each a Handful; boil all in a very close Vessel in Water; when cool enough, bathe the pained Parts in it. His Father Henry Pauli used this: Take of Mallows, and Marsh Mallows, each three Handfuls; Brooklime, Fumitory, fresh Scurvy-grass, Water Cresses, and Camomile, of each two Handfuls; Mallow Roots, three Ounces; Elder Roots, two Ounces; Juniper Berries, a Handful; bruise, cut, boil, and use as before.

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280.

SELF-HEAL ( Prunella) Its Leaves and Flowers are bitterish, warm and dry, cleanse, heal, and are exceeding Vulnerary, much used in Wounds of the Lungs, and coagulated Blood. Outwardly in Wounds, and in a Gargle for the Quinsey, and Diseases of the Mouth and Jaws. The dried Root rubbed on an aching Tooth, till it brings Blood, eases the Pain, if it be thrust into a bored Willow, and the Hole shut up with a Piece of Willow. It and Fluellen cured a Pissing of Blood, when all other Things failed. It is scarce credible how efficacious a Remedy Self-heal is, in burning and in hectic Fevers; Sim. Pauli, Solenand. The Leaves bruised and applied, or their Juice used for a Wash and Bath, to the Part affected, is a Sovereign Remedy in all Sorts of Ulcers and Sores, whether new and fresh, or old and inveterate, even in Gangrenes and Fistula's; or, made into a Lotion, with Honey of Roses and Allum, it cures all Sores of the Mouth and Gums, be they never so foul, or of long Continuance. Its Decoction, with a little Salt Prunella, is the best Gargle for an inflamed Mouth. Used inwardly and outwardly, it greatly eases such as have broken or dislocated Bones. An Ointment of it, Scabious, and Bugle Leaves, made with Hog's Lard, till the Herb is boiled crisp, then strained and kept for Use, is of wonderful Service for all Hurts in any Part of the Body. Such, as are so kind as to keep and administer such Helps to the Poor, cannot keep a better Salve.

281.

AS BUGLE ( Bugula) resembles Self-heal in Figure, Shape, and Virtue, I shall place them together. [Page 264] Bugle is a Vulnerary used inwardly and outwardly; is good in the Jaundice, Obstructions of the Liver, Retention of Urine, Ruptures, &c. It is added to vulnerary Decoctions, and applied outwardly to Venereal Ulcers of the Privy Parts, with great Success. It is very useful in Fractures, Convulsions, and Bruises. Potions of its Decoction dissolve and discuss coagulated Blood. A Gargle of it is a present Remedy for the Thrush, and creeping Ulcers in the Mouth. A Decoction of its Leaves and Flowers in Wine, is good for all inward Wounds, Thrusts, or Stabs in the Body or Bowels; for Obstructions of the Liver and Gall, and to strengthen the Parts. The Leaves, either bruised and applied, or the Juice used to wash and bathe the Parts, is a wonderful Remedy, for all Sorts of Ulcers and Sores, new or old, even Fistula's or Gangrenes▪ or, made into a Lotion with Honey of Roses and Allum, it cures all Sores of the Mouth and Gums. It is good for Spitting of Blood, Bloody Fluxes, Whites, Ulcers, Sores and Inflammations of the Mouth and Throat. Its clarified Juice has the same Virtues. It is also used in Plaisters, Poultises, and Ointments. A Decoction of Sanicle, Self-heal, Bugle, and Peruvian Bark, drank with the following Powder, is said to be infallible in a Diabetes, Bed-pissing, and in all Discharges of Blood from within, either by Mouth, Stool, Uterus, or Urine: Take white Henbane Seeds, five Ounces; Japan Earth, and Peruvian Bark, of each two Ounces; Windpipes of Sheep, cleansed and dried in an Oven, two Ounces; Windpipes of Capons, so prepared, one Ounce; rasped Ivory, and Seahorse Tooth, of each an Ounce; Sugar of Roses, four Ounces; mix all; Dose a Dram thrice a Day, with a Wine Glass full of the Decoction, sweetened with Syrup of dried [Page 265] Roses. As this is extolled for the Bite of a mad Dog; Take Leaves of Rue, six Ounces; Roots of Garlick, London Treacle, of each Half an Ounce; Powder of Tin, four Ounces; boil all in unhopped Ale, from four Pints to two; Dose two Ounces, twice or thrice a Day; lay Cloths dipped in it to the Wound or Bite. Another pretended infallible Remedy for Bed-pissing, is Roots of Comfry, red Roses, Powder of Mice dried in an Oven, Hog's-Hoof, Stag's Pizzle, of each alike; powder all and mix; Dose Half a Dram in a glass of the above Decoction in red Wine thrice a Day, for four Days, new and full Moon, and lay a strengthening Plaister on the Loins and Sharebone.

282.

SERVICE-TREE BERRIES (Sorbus) are a Specific, and present Remedy against the Gripes and Bloody Flux, being a great Astringent. They are also good in internal Haemorrhages. A Rob made of them is a generous Specific in epidemic Diarhaeas, or Loosenesses, and also in Fluxes from eating too much Fruit. Some keep and use a Powder of the unripe Berries, for all these Purposes. The Wood either laid up in the House, or carried about the Person, was formerly the dernier Resort against Witchcraft.

283.

SHEPHERD'S PURSE ( Bursa Pastoris) is cooling, drying, conglutinating, and astringent; is very good in Bleeding at the Nose, Spitting of Blood, Bloody Flux, Bloody Urine, and excessive Menses. The bruised Herb laid to the fresh Wounds heals them up presently, without either an after Inflammation or Suppuration. Either put under the Armpits, Nape of the Neck, or under the Tongue, [Page 266] and Pledgets dipp'd in the Juice, and put up the Nose, stops its Bleeding. An Ounce of the Juice, or two Ounces of the Broth of the dried Herb, cures bloody Urine, or Spitting of Blood. And Sim. Pauli says, it infallibly cures a fresh Clap. A Poultise of it to the Wrist is said to cure Agues; without Doubt it is an excellent Astringent and Vulnerary. The greater Shepherd's Purse, with a waved Leaf, contains much volatile concrete Salt; more Lixivial, and more Earth, than most other Plants; hence it is fit to dissolve a too thick grumous Blood, whether rendered so by too much Acid, too hard Labour, which had strained off the more watery Parts through the Skin, or by its being overcharged with earthy Principles. In Losses of Blood, its Juice should be drank from three to six Ounces; or in Fluxes with Inflammamations.

284.

SILVER-WEED, or WILD TANSEY (Argentina) cools moderately, astringes, dries, and heals. It is good in Spitting of Blood, and in all Fluxes and Loosenesses of the Belly, or Uterus. It notably wastes the Stone in the Reins, and is good for Wounds and Ulcers. It is famous for easing the Pain of the Tooth-ach, preventing Putrefaction in the Gums. Applied in a Poultise with Vinegar and Salt to the Wrists, and Soles of the Feet, it abates the heat of Fevers powerfully. Its distilled Water is a Wash to beautify the Face. The Herb restrains all Fluxes so powerfully, that many have been cured both of those of the Belly and Uterus, only by wearing it between their Feet and Stocking Soles. It is good for fresh Ruptures. A Poultise of it boiled with Salt, and applied, dissolves [Page 267] clotted Blood, by Falls or Bruises. It cleanses all Wounds, Ulcers, and Sores.

ARGENTINA. This Plant I saw growing on the Salt-plain, four Miles beyond Onondago, and no where else.

285.

SLOE-TREE. (Prunus Sylvestris) All its Parts are binding, cooling, and drying; stop Bleeding at the Nose, Mouth, Stool, Uterus, or by Urine, and all Fluxes of the Belly, and ease Pains of the Sides, Bowels, and Back, from excessive Purging. A Decoction of the Root, Bark, or of the dry or green Sloes, is most used. Conserve or Syrup of Sloes, has the same Effect. A distilled Water from the Flowers infused in Sack, and drawn in the cold Still, eases all Gnawings in the Sides, Heart, Stomach, or Bowels; or Gripes or Pains in those Parts, if drank warm in small Doses, when they are pained. A Decoction of the Leaves is a good Gargle for sore Mouths or Throats, and to stop the Defluction of Rheum on the Eyes, or other Parts; to bathe the Head and Temples with, to cool the Heat and Inflammation of those Parts, or of the Head. The distilled simple Water of the Flowers, or the thickened dried Juice of the Fruit, or the Water of the unripe Berries; or their Pulp, boiled; or the Powder of the dried Leaves or Bark, do all cool, brace, bind, and stay all Fluxes, or Haemorrhages, or ease their Pains. The Juice of the Fruit is a good Substitute for the Juice of Acacia, and it is better than the Juice of Sumach, or Myrtles, which some substitute. Some give their Raisin, or Elder, or other made Wines, the Colour and Roughness of true foreign Wines, by putting the Juice of the ripe, or near ripe Sloes.

286.

SOLOMON'S SEAL. ( Polygonatum) The Root is vulnerary and astringent, stops all Fluxes, [Page 268] and heals broken Bones. The Root boiled in Wine, and drank, is very good in Contusions, Fractures, and Ruptures. Outwardly it clears off Spots of the Face, makes the Skin fair, and dissolves and gives Vent to clotted Blood. The Berries vomit and purge. The Root preserved with Sugar, and eaten, is excellent in the Whites. Boil'd in strong Ale, it is good in the Sciatica. Some put it in the sixth Class of Antiepileptics. A Decoction of the Root in Milk, eaten several Nights for Supper, is good in the Piles. It stays Vomitings and Bleedings, cures Wounds new or old, luxated Joints, and strained, or relaxed Nerves, or Tendons. The Root takes out Measles, Spots, and Scars of late Wounds. The Roots infused in Bean Flower, or white Lilly Flower Water, a natural Day, the strained off Liquor makes a good Wash for Womens Faces; but, if the Infusion is longer, it excoriates the Skin. Agricola says, the distilled Water applied, with Rags dipp'd in it, dissolves coagulated Blood under the Skin, and takes Spots out of the Skin, The Root beaten up to a Poultise, or boiled tender, or powdered alone; or it and Comfry Root, boil'd, and made a Poultise of; or the Pulp of Burdock Root, in a Poultise, all of them take out black or blue Marks from Strokes or Blows. Dr. Henry Pauli's Cosmetic was this: Take Flowers of Lilly of the Valley, Broom and Lovage, Roots of Solomon's Seal, Asphodel, Briony, white Lilly, of each a Handful; cut, and bruise all; add Honey, four Ounces; Rhenish Wine, two Pounds; let all stand in Infusion till they putrefy, then distil by the Alembic, throw the distilled Liquor thrice back on the Ingredients in the Still, and draw off afresh each Time; then to the distill'd Water, Powder of Camphire Half a Dram, it makes a most precious Face [Page 269] Water. Mathiolus's Cosmetic is this: Take Dock and Pumpion Waters, of each two Pounds; ten Swallows Eggs, beaten with them; Salt-petre, Half an Ounce; white Tartar, two Ounces; distil all, with the Water wash the Face every Morning, and at Night anoint it with Oils of Tartar and sweet Almonds mixed.

287.

SORREL (common) ( Acetosa Vulgares) being acid, is cooling, and drying, excites the Appetite, checks Choler, quenches Thirst, resists Putrefaction, is most beneficial in bilious, simple, and pestilential Fevers, its express'd Juice, or a Decoction of its Leaves, being mixed with Spoon Meat. The Seed is binding; it and Scurvy-grass are good against the Scurvy, boil'd in Broth. It is good in all Inflammations, and Heats of the Blood. Its Emulsion quenches Thirst, cools, and is good in ardent Fevers. A Decoction of the Root is useful against the Jaundice, Gravel, and Stone. A Syrup of it, Fumitory, and Liver-wort, is excellent in Children's Scab or Itch, for which, its Juice and Vinegar are good outwardly, and for Chafing, Tetters, and Ring worms. Its express'd Juice, often given, cures Excess of the Menses. A Gargle of the Juice is good for sore Mouths. The Leaves wrapp'd in a Cabbage, or Dock Leaf, and roasted under the Ashes, and laid to Boils or Imposthumes, ripen and break them. The Root, boiled in Water, makes it red like Claret.

288.

WOOD SORREL (Lujula) lays feverish Heat, quenches Thirst, and cools the Heat of the Stomach, Liver, and Heart, either in Decoction, Syrup, or Conserve. Some, from the greater or [Page 270] smaller Number of the Leaves of this Herb, pretend to foretel what the next Summer will be; if it send out many Leaves, say they, it will be wet, if few droughty; as they do from Frogs Spawn, for, if it lies near the Side of Water, the next Season will be rainy, if in the Middle dry. An Infusion of this Herb quenches Thirst wonderfully, cools Heats and Inflammations, and is good against contagious Sickness and Plague. Applied outwardly in a Poultise or Decoction, it cools much. A Decoction of Wood Sorrel, Violet, Strawberry Leaves, Self-heal, and Liver-wort, is a noble Ptisan in hot Fevers. Gesnerus held the following to drink a great Secret in hot Fevers: Take Herb Sorrel thirty Handfuls; Wood Sorrel, fifteen Handfuls; Dandelion and Plantain, with their Roots, Lettuce, Cichory, Fumitory, Violets, of each five Handfuls; Flowers of Water Lillies, three Handfuls; cut and infuse in sixteen Pounds of distill'd Rain Water; of strong Wine, four Pots; distil it for Use. ^*

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289.

SOUTHERN-WOOD MALE (Abrotanum Mas) (See LAVENDER COTTON, the Female) is sub-astringent, and very discutient, resists Putrefaction and Poisons, cures the Bite of venomous Beasts, kills [Page 272] Worms, provokes [...], relieves in Hysterics, and discusses the King's-evil; the Tops boil'd in Wine or Mead, and Honey added to the strained Liquor, and drank, cut the thick Humours of the Lungs, and give Ease in an Asthma, and Difficulty of Breathing. It is used outwardly to dry and strengthen the Bones, and in a Wash to prevent the Hair falling off. The Seed bruised, and drank in warm Water, helps Ruptures in Children, Cramps, Convulsions, Sciatica, Difficulty in making Water, and brings down the Menses. The Herb, boiled with Barley Meal, clears the Face from Pimples, Wheals, &c. The bruised Herb draws Splinters, or Thorns, out of the Flesh. Its Ashes dry and heal up old Ulcers, that are not inflamed, [Page 273] and the Sores in Men or Womens privy Parts. The Ashes or Juice with Oil helps Baldness or Falling off of the Hair. The same does a strong Decoction of Wormwood, and Vervain, or an Ointment of white Lilly Roots, made with Butter. Its Oil kills Head Lice, (and so do all other Oils.) Its distill'd Water is good in the Stone, Spleen, and Hysterics. It is a special Herb in warming Fomentations, Poultises, or Ointments. The Female Sort is mostly used inwardly. The Leaves of it and Rue, made with Butter into small Balls, and swallowed, kill Worms.— Tarragon (Abrotanum Linifolio acri & odorato) has a pleasant, hot, aromatic Taste. The Leaves are heating and drying, good for cold Stomachs, therefore eaten in Sallads to expel Wind or Menses, and to provoke Urine; but seldom used inwardly; otherwise, half a Dram of powdered Southern-wood and Nitre, drank, is wonderful in a Suppression of Urine.

290.

SOW-BREAD ( Artanita) cuts, cleanses, and opens, digests and draws; its Juice put on Wool, and applied, opens the Piles freely; and if put into the Anus, it moves strongly to Stool. Infused and given Clyster-ways, it expels tough Phlegm. It is deservedly mixt with other proper Things, to bring down Swellings and hard Tumours in any Part of the Body. The Juice mixt with Honey, and dropp'd into the Eyes, takes off Pin, Web, &c. Snuffed up the Nose, it purges the Head, cures Head-ach, Megrim, &c. The Belly bath'd with the Juice is loosened. The Root is weaker than the Juice, yet either drank, or applied outwardly, it hastens the Menses. Three Drams of the Root powdered, drank in Mead, cures the yellow Jaundice, if the Sick go to Bed, and sweat [Page 274] freely after it. The distill'd Water, snuffed up the Nose, stops its Bleeding. Six Ounces of the Water drank, with an Ounce of fine Sugar, wonderfully stop the Bleeding of the Breast, Stomach, or Liver. To prevent its violent Purging, it should be mixt with Mastich or Nutmeg, or a Scruple of Rhubarb. It is also of great Service in the Cholick, and hard Swellings of the Spleen. The Roots beaten with a few Peach-stone Kernels, and bitter Almonds, and infused three Days in Aquavitae: A Drop or two of this express'd Cream, dropp'd into noisy or deaf Ears, has a very good Effect. A Gargle of the Juice, with Honey or Plantain Water, cures all Sores in the Throat, Mouth, or Tooth-ach. The Herb warms, dries, cuts powerfully, and purges the Head. It is given inwardly with great Caution, but mostly outwardly.— SOW THISTLE. See CARLINE THISTLE.

SOW BREAD. Is very difficult to keep in our Gardens, and wild no where in our Provinces that I have observed.

291.

SPEEDWELL or FLUELLEN ( Veronica Mas) the Male is bitter, Sudorific, Vulnerary, Cleansing, Diuretic, and fit to ease the Lungs, loaded or obstructed with glutinous or purulent Matter. A Spirit of the Infusion of the Herb, some Days in Wine, drawn off by the Alembic, two Ounces of this Spirit, given with a little Treacle, in malignant Fevers, sweat very powerfully. The distill'd simple Water of the Herb, drank, is excellent for Ulcers of the Lungs, Stone, and Vapours, especially if a Dram of the Herb, and as much of the Middle Bark, of Bitter-sweet ( Solanum scandens, vel Dulcamara) be infused in two Ounces of the Water. A Syrup or Extract of this Herb purifies the Blood, and is good in all Diseases of the Skin; but the Parts should be washed in its Water or Decoction at the same Time, or in some vitriolic [Page 275] Solution. A Pint of its Decoction, and an Ounce of Butter and as much Sugar, mixt and given in a Clyster, is a Specific in Cholic Pains, if duly repeated. Some, for this Purpose, boil it in Milk, with Camomile, and then add the Sugar. This Herb is not only mixt with the Vulnerary Plants, in Broths, Potions, and Ptisans, but many drink it as a Tea, and find great Benefit by it; its many rare Virtues challenge a far more general Use of it. Its Decoction, drank plentifully for some Time, cured one of the Stone who had it lying in the Kidnies sixteen Years. A Woman, who had been barren many Years, drank the powdered Leaves in its distill'd Water for some Days; she soon conceived, and communicated the Secret to several of her Female Acquaintance, in the like Circumstances, who used it as she did for some Time, with like Success, for ten out of twelve conceived. This Water cured a Fistula of the Breast, which had eluded the Power of all other Remedies. Cloths dipp'd in this Water cured the most violent Pains and Inflammation of an Ulcer of the Leg for many Years. Extracts of this Herb, and Juniper Berries, mixt, and given in Pills, after the Use of some Laxatives, and Aperitives, is a sovereign Remedy in all Obstructions of the Viscera, and Diseases of the Breast; for it carries off the morbid Matter by Urine. Linnen Cloths, wrung out of this Water, have succeeded in curing dry or moist Scabs, when other Methods have failed in Children, especially if the Nurse or Child at the same time drink a Decoction of Fumitory in Whey. The Tops and Flowers of the Herb may be preserved in Conserve, Syrup, or distill'd Water. Schroder Extols the Herb in Erosions, or Obstructions of the Lungs and Spleen, in the Cholic, Consumption, Scab, Itch, Plague and Wounds. A Decoction [Page 276] of the Herb sweetened is good in a Quinsy, and in a Thrush, with Honey; outwardly, it is most celebrated in cleansing Wounds in Cholic, and Hardness of the Spleen. Crato says, the frequent Use of Clysters of a bare Decoction of this Herb, with a little Sugar, will do more Service in the Stone and Cholic, than many Medicines taken by the Mouth; nay, even than the most costly, pompous, and generous. Sim. Pauli solemnly attests the same from his own Observation. The Powder and Water of the Herb greatly helps the Memory; is good in a Vertigo, and Pain of the Head. It is powerful in a Jaundice, it cleanses Ulcers in the Reins, Bladder, and Uterus, and heals them. It provokes Urine; speedily heals fresh Wounds, Tetters, and other foul, old, fretting or running Sores and Ulcers, of long Continuance, and hard Cure. It stops all Fluxes of Blood, dissolves Tumours, and Swellings of the Neck. A little Allum, dissolved in the distill'd Water, and sprinkled on Cloths, keeps them from Moth-eating.

292.

FEMALE SPEEDWELL ( Veronica being the Male, and Ela [...]ine the [...]emale) The express'd Juice of this Herb, and its distill'd Water, used inwardly and outwardly, are said to check, and perfectly heal sordid and cancerous Ulcers; as some very near to Mutilation have joyfully experienced. The Leaves are bitter, astringent, and drying, and more cooling than those of the Male. A Poultise of the bruised Leaves, with Barley Meal, applied, stops Defluxions of hot Rheum on the Eyes. The Herb is also good in all Defluxions, or Fluxes, as a Looseness, excessive Menses and Lochia, Bleeding at the Nose, Mouth, Urine, &c. or Bleeding from [Page 277] a broken Vein, a bruised or hurt Vessel, or where the inward Parts want Healing and Strengthening. It not only heals green Wounds, but▪ filthy, fretting, spreading Ulcers; even a cancerated Nose, doomed to be cut off, to save the rest of a poor leprous Carcase, was by a poor Surgeon cured by this singe Herb, given inwardly, and applied outwardly, and, says Pena, he had his Leprosy cured into the Bargin.

293.

SPLEEN-WORT, or CETERACH ( Asplenium) is used for Diseases of the Spleen; is good in a Stoppage of Urine, or Pissing by Drops; it wastes the Stone, and is good in the Jaundice. It is used to prevent Womens Conception. A Dram of the Dust, on the Back-side of the Leaves, with half a Dram of powdered Amber, taken in Plantain Water, quickly helps the Running of the Reins. The Herb, boiled and taken, is good in Melancholy. Its distill'd Water is reputed good for the Stone. A Lee of the Ashes, drank some Time, is very good for Spleneticks. It is also used outwardly for those Purposes.

294

SPURGE ( Tithymalus) the whole Class contains a milky Juice, of a sharp, caustic Quality; they inflame and exulcerate the Parts, offend the Stomach, and occasion torturing Pains in the Bowels; so as they must not be taken inwardly, except with great Judgment, Caution, and Preparation, by steeping it in Vinegar, or other Acids; then it evacuates bilious, phlegmatic, and watery Humours; and is good in the Gout, Dropsy, and other obstinate Diseases. Applied outwardly, they [Page 278] eat and corrode the Skin, but cure Warts, ^* and other Excrescences; cleanse foul and carious Ulcers, running Sores, and remove Scurf, Scab, and all other Deformities of the Skin. If one shakes the express'd Juice, and smells to it, it will raise violent, and often mortal Sneezings. The Leaves and Roots, bruised and thrown into a Pond or River, kill or stun and stupify the Fish, so as they swim, and may be taken up; the broad-leafed Spurge is best for this. From ten to twenty of the Seeds, swallowed whole, purge much; if chew'd they heat and inflame the Parts. The Root Bark, infused twenty-four Hours in strong Vinegar, is given in Substance from one Scruple to two. In Infusion to two Drams, corrected with Cream of Tartar, or some Drops of the Oil of Sulphur. But it is so injurious and dangerous a Plant, that it is much better let alone.

295

SPURRY-SEED (Spergula) is said to be a Vomit, and to cleanse the Stomach from much Phlegm and viscous Humours. The Herb, applied to green Wounds quickly heals them; it fattens Cattle and Poultry much, brings Store of Milk and Eggs.—SPIGNEL. See BAWDMONY.

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296.

SQUILLS (Scilla) their Root, either in Oxymel, Vinegar, Wine, or Infusion, exceeds the whole vegetable Kingdom, for cutting, thinning, dissolving, and expelling out of the whole Body Phlegm, or gross Humours, by Spitting, Peuking, Urine, and Stool; and for stimulating and rousing up Action and Motion, in the languid, dull, lax, and weak Solids; hence its amazing Success in restoring phlegmatic, bloated, cachectic, asthmatic, hydropic, icteric, and cacochymic Habits; whether put into Electuary, Julaps, Infusions, Decoctions, or Apozems, or given alone in a moderate Dose, it is an admirable Vomit to all Ages and Constitutions; it loosens the Belly, and provokes Urine at the same time. It is therefore most proper for Stuffings of the Lungs, or Loading of the Breast with tough, thick Phlegm; for a palled and relaxed Stomach; for the Jaundice, and in a begun Dropsy, mixt in any of the above Forms of Medicines. In stuffed, bloated, worn out Habits, where the Case was quite desperate, and all other Helps proved useless, I have known a Solution of Gum Ammoniac, in Tincture of Saffron, drawn in Treacle Water, with Oxymel of Squills, have surprising Effects. I have known a Peuk of Oxymel, given every other Day to Children in the Chin-cough, have good Success.

SQUILLS. Grows in the South of Europe, and no Plant like it in these Provinces.

297.

STAR-WORT (Sea) (Tripolium) two Drams of it in Wine purge off watery Humours by Stool and Urine. The Root is hot and sharp, an Antidote against venomous Poison. It is a good Vulnerary for green Wounds, Ulcers, Sores, Hurts and [...]

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298.

STAVES-ACRE, or LOUSE-WORT (Staphisagria) is excessively hot, and acrid, even caustic; it purges, but with Danger of Suffocation from its Heat; hence its inward Use is entirely laid aside. It and Pellitory of Spain Root are tied up in a Rag, and chewed in the Mouth for the Tooth-ach; for it draws forth much Rheum. The Powder sprinkled on Childrens Heads, or mixt with Lard, or Oil, kills Lice, being rubb'd on the Head or Body. Twelve or twenty Grains of the Seed purge upwards, downwards, and salivate at once; hence it may be good in the French Pox, but it inflames much. The Seed boiled in much Water, and the Liquor used for a Gargle, for two or three Days, may raise a slight Salivation.—

STAVES-ACRE. Grows no where in our Provinces, it is a Plant natural to the South of Europe.

STINKING GLADDON. See GLADWIN.

299.

STINKING ARRACHE. See ARRACHE.

300.

STOCK-JULY FLOWER ( Leucoium) and Wall Flower, are of a cleansing Quality, and subtle thin Parts. The green or dried Garden Flowers, boil'd in Wine and drank, are good in Disorders of the Liver and Reins; they bring down the Menses ▪ [...]are the Hardness and Pains of the Uterus, and expel Birth and After-birth, the Seed and Juice being taken in a Draught of Liquor, or a Bath made for Women to sit over. Their Decoction, drank twice a Day, strengthens and restores any Member that is weak, lax, and had been lately dislocated. The Roots boil'd in Vinegar, and the Liquor drank, and the Roots laid to the left Side▪ help Hardness of the Spleen. The distill'd Water [Page 281] is said to have the like Effects, and to purify the Blood, and comfort the inward Parts; to ease Pains, and cause Chearfulness. The Juice dropp'd into the Eyes clears them from Mists, Clouds, and Films that begin to grow over them, and impair the Sight. A Decoction of the Flowers with Honey, and a little Allum, is a good Gargle for Ulcers, and Sores in the Mouth; or to wash Sores in any other Part of the Body.— Wall Flowers consist of very small and subtle Parts; they discuss and cleanse, are good to comfort Heart and Nerves, ease Pains, cause the Menses, and facilitate the Birth. The Flowers may be distill'd infused, or made into a Conserve, or Tea. The Oil prevents an Apoplexy, cures the Palsy, greatly eases Pains of Wounds, or Inflammations of the nervous Parts, and in Uterine Diseases. The Oil made by Infusion is good in Rheumatisms.

301.

STRAWBERRIES ( Fragaria) are cooling and moistening, proper for thirsty and bilious Persons. They are best eaten with Sugar and Wine, or Cream and Sugar; but, if eaten alone in too great a Quantity, they are apt to putrefy in the Stomach. Tragus says their distill'd Water chears the Heart, cleanses the Breast, is good in the Epilepsy, purges the Blood, is good in Ulcers of the Mouth and Throat, and wastes the Stone in the Kidnies. Hoffman says, an Ounce of the Water, drank every Morning, cures a red pimpled Face, and the dry itching Scab, whether in one Place, or over the Body; it cools and cleanses the Reins. Put the ripe Berries into a Bottle full of boiling Water, let them stand forty Hours, strain, and put fresh Berries into the same Water, and so leave it close covered, that no Steam evaporate; but let [Page 282] the first Berries be strongly squeezed through a Linnen Cloth, and keep the express'd Liquor by itself; when you would use it, Take a full Spoonful of it with Sugar-Candy, three or four times in a Month, it is a very pleasant and efficacious Cure of the Stone; and so must the Berries of the second Infusion and their Water be used. The whole Herb is cooling and drying, bitter and a little astringent, very diuretic, and often used in the Stone, and in Gargles, Baths, Poultises, &c. to stop Fluxes of Blood, to cleanse filthy Ulcers, and check Catarrhs and Fluxions. The Decoction of the whole Plant, either used alone, or with other proper Ingredients, is with great Success given in a Jaundice. Rulandus, after he had purged the Body with Extract of Dwarf Elder, gave this Decoction with stoned Raisins. Sim. Pauli used the Herb in a Poultise with old Wine, to the Sharebone and Perinaeum, for the Whites in Women, and involuntary Emissions of Semen in Men. The Berries should always be wash'd before they are eaten. The Water or Juice are good for most Inflammatory Diseases of the Eyes, and Eruptions of the Face or Skin. The Herb is a surprising Remedy in the Jaundice, either of Children, or especially Pot Companions, Whetters, and Drammers. For Children thus; Sim. Pauli: Take of the Herb and Dodder, of each a Handful; cut and bruised Currants, two Ounces; white crude Tartar, half an Ounce; boil in Barley Water to a Pound, strain, and sweeten with Syrup of Barberries. It is also good for feverish People.

302.

SWALLOW-WORT ( Asclepias) the Root is a special Alexipharmac and Sudorific; it is chiefly used in the Plague, and other malignant Diseases; [Page 283] in obstructed Menses, Palpitation of the Heart, Fainting, and Dropsy. Its Seed is commended in the Stone; the Root, Flowers, and Seeds, are used outwardly in foul and malignant Ulcers, Ulcers of the Breast, and Biting of venomous Beasts. Half a Pound of the Root steeped all Night in Wine, then boil'd to a third Part, and drank warm, and Sweat encouraged, Water is thereby expelled so powerfully from under the Skin, that it bursts out at the very Soles of the Feet. A Decoction of the Root in Wine cures the Gripes, Stinging of Serpents, &c. A Poultise of the Seed cures sore Nipples or Breasts. A Decoction of the Root is preferable to that of Scornozera; it works powerfully by Urine and Perspiration, and its Infusion in Wine sweetened, brings the Menses. It is used outwardly in Poultises, Lotions, Ointments, &c. to Ulcers and Tumours, as well as Birth-wort.

This Species of ASCLEPIAS, grows only in Botanick Gardens, as I have observed.

303.

SUCCORY ( Cichorium) is a choice Plant taken any Way; for a too hot and obstructed Liver, whether eaten raw in a Sallad, or boiled, or the Juice, Decoction, or Powder, is used; for they attenuate, cleanse, and cool, and brace a little. Crato extols the Use of its Root in Hectics. The Waters of the Flowers are excellent in Inflammations of the Eyes, and Dimness of the Sight. Wood Succory is good in the Gout. Spigelius says, In a hot Disorder, there is nothing comes up to, or can exceed the Powder of wild Succory, gathered in May, and dried in the Shade, if a Dram of it be daily taken in Chicken Broth, four Hours before Dinner, and at going to Bed. Sim. Pauli and Rhodius say, it is also good in the Hypo and inflammatory Gout. A Handful of its Roots and Leaves, boiled in Wine or Water, [Page 284] and drank fasting, expels choleric and watery Humours, opens Obstructions of Liver, Gall, or Spleen; helps the Jaundice, Heat of the Kidnies and Urine, the Dropsy, and Cachexy. A Dram of the Powder, drank before a Fit of the Ague, is a Febrifuge. The Water is good in all hot Eruptions on the Skin, but especially the Decoction, both to drink and wash with; and for Nurses sore Breasts, from too much Milk

304.

TANSY ( Tanacetum) is much of the Nature of Feverfew, (as sweet Maudlin was of Costmary) it is a good Vulnerary, Uterine, and Nephritic. It is mostly used for Worms, Gripes, Stone, and Gravel, obstructed Menses, Wind and Dropsy. Its Juice heals Chops on the Hands and Feet, and scurfy Ulcers. Its Seed, with Wormseed, is a good Destroyer of Worms. A Conserve of its Tops resists Putrefaction, opens Obstructions, chears the Senses, and is good for the Spleen. Its Juice, with Oil, helps Contractions and Pains of the Nerves; or, drank in Wine, it cures Stoppage of Urine, helps weak Reins, expels Flatulency from the Stomach and Bowels, provokes the Menses, and, applied to the Sharebone, prevents Miscarriage. It is an aromatic, acrid, and bitter Herb, but the Root is not bitter. It contains much Oil, volatile Salt, and Sulphur. It is a good Sudorific, as well as Febrifuge; two Drams of the Juice in Plantain Water cures Agues. It is good for Tetters and Scurf. A large Cup of its Tea, drank, is good in malignant Fevers and Diseases of the lower Belly. It purifies the Blood, and its Conserve is good in a Vertigo and Epilepsy, for a Cachexy, Dropsy, or Green Sickness. Its Juice or Infusion is good, as is a Fomentation [Page 285] of the Legs in a Dropsy, with its Decoction; in Wine. The Powder of its Flowers and Seeds, or the bruised Leaves, made into Balls, and given, or a Poultise of it, Wormseed, Colocinth, and Ox Gall, laid to the Navel, are all three good in Worms. Its Decoction is good to wash old▪ and malignant Ulcers. In a Falling down of the Anus, first fumigate the Part with Colophony and Frankincense, then foment it with a warm Decoction of Tansy in red Wine, and apply the boiled Herb in a Poultise; or, which is better, foment only the Part with the Decoction, then sprinkle it with Powder of Mastich. For the Pining or Wasting of any Member, wash and foment it daily with a Decoction of Tansy, or rub it with Nettle Juice, afterwards wrap it up in a Plaister of black Pitch.

305.

THROAT-WORT ( Cervicaria) being a little astringent, a Gargle of the Root is good in Ulcers of the Mouth and Throat or for the swelled or relaxed Uvula or Palate; and, the Decoction being mixt with Honey, Wine, and Allum, they cleanse and heal all Sores in any other Part of the Body.

306.

THOROW-WAX (Perfoliata) is most useful to Surgeons for all Bruises, Wounds, old Ulcers, and Sores, if its Decoction in Wine or Water, or Powder, or Juice, drank, and a Lotion of it used outwardly to the Parts, and an Ointment of its Juice be applied. The above Decoction, or Powder of the Herb, drank, and bruised, and with Meal and Wine laid on the Place, it is singular in curing Ruptures, especially of the Navel, and to discuss scrophulous Tumours, and heal Fractures. Sim. Pauli cured a Navel Rupture with a [Page 286] Decoction of this Rupture-wort, Mouse-ear, and Acacia, of each half a Handful boiled in Wine, and applied.

This Species of PERFOLIATA grows only in Botanick Gardens▪ there are several Plants in these Provinces call'd by that name by fanciful People, very different.

307.

TOAD-FLAX ( Linaria) moves the Belly, and expels Urine strongly. A small Glass of the distilled Water of the Herb, and Flower, with a Dram of powdered Dwarf Elder Bark drank daily, with a little Cinnamon, for some Time, is so powerful a Diuretic, that it is a singular Remedy for the Dropsy. The same Water, drank, loosens the Belly, and discusses the King's-Evil, for which, and Obstructions of the Liver, its Decoction in Wine drank is more effectual. This Water, or Juice, dropped into the Eyes, takes away their Redness and Inflammation. The Juice, or Water, injected into foul Ulcers, whether cancerous or fistulous, and the Parts washed with it, cleanses them to the Bottom, and heals them up safely; the Juice, or Water, used by themselves, or with Powder of Lupines, clears the Skin from all Deformity, as Leprosy, Morphew, Scurfs, Wheals, Pimples, Spots, &c. The Herb used gives certain and efficacious Relief, not only in recent Jaundices, but in those tending to a Dropsy; some for Quartans wear the Herb between their Stockings and Feet. A Decoction of the Plant relieves such as by Falls, or Bruises, have coagulated Blood; the Plant is a Specific for easing the Pains of dry Haemorrhoids, or Piles, for which Use it affords the following singular Ointments, viz. Boil the bruised Herb and Flowers with Hog's Lard; when cool enough, add the Yolk of an Egg, spread it on Wool, and apply; or, by a double Decoction, make the Ointment very green, and [Page 287] mix the Yolk of an Egg as it is used. In a Stoppage of Urine, or Dropsy, the Herb is good to wash the Urinary Passages from Stone and Gravel; its Decoction in Wine expels Menses, Birth, and After-birth, as well as moves the Belly, and opens Obstructions. Tournefort says, it resolves extravasated Blood, softens the Fibres, takes off their Tension, and eases Pain. Caesalpinus extols this Herb for scrophulous Swellings, and the Leprosy, Cancers, Tetters, and the Dropsy, if three Ounces of the Juice, or six of the distilled Water, be daily drank twice a Day; its Tincture, or Extract, is taken to a Dram; an Ointment for Piles, Ulcers, or King's-Evil, is made by infusing the Leaves 24 Hours in White-Wine; press out the Liquor, and boil it to a third Part, add Hog's Lard, and boil to an Ointment, with a little Wax, to give it a Consistence.

TOAD-FLAX. This Species is called by our People Ransted's Weed, or Dog Piss Weed; a troublesome, stinking Weed, is no Native, but we can never I believe eradicate it.

308.

TOBACCO, as it is an American Plant (though much used in Britain) is very common, and Samples of it cultivated in several Gardens, I shall be brief with it. It cleanses, attenuates and dissolves, is somewhat astringent, and resists Putrefaction; it is good for the Cure of Ulcers, both in Man and Beast, whether its Juice, Balsam, or Ointment, is used. Its Ointment is also good for Scab, Itch, Tetters, scrophulous ulcerated Tumours, inveterate Ulcers, or fresh Wounds. Its Powder, snuffed up the Nose, causes strong Sneezing in those that are unaccustomed to it; Tobacco Ashes put into a hollow Tooth, quickly eases the Tooth-ach; it is chewed and smoaked, as well as snuffed, by which it brings away abundance of Phlegm, is good in a Catarrh, Rheum, or Defluxions from the Head, and so is very beneficial to sluggish, sleepy, dull, [Page 288] phlegmatic, watery, gross, and cold Habits, and so Tipplers, especially of Malt Liquors; it is proper in rainy, haizy, foggy, moist Weather, and in low, wet, fenny Grounds, and against the Infection of contagious epidemic Diseases, as Plague, pestilential and malignant Fevers; but thin, temperate, laborious Persons, have no Benefit to expect from it, in a clear hot dry Season especially; such as swallow the Spittle from it have always an open Belly; its Juice, Decoction, or Powder, rubbed on the Body, or any Part of it, or dropp'd into the Ears, kills Lice, Crabs, Worms, or any Sort of Vermin; or wash the Head or other Parts daily with a Lee of Hemp-seed Ashes; or Root of Hound's-tongue hung on a Thread about the Neck, and renewed once a Week; or Powder of Spindletree Berries sprinkled on the Parts; or a Liniment of powdered Barberries and Vinegar, rubbed on the Parts; or the Head washed with a Decoction of yellow Henbane; or a Decoction of Fleabane to wash with; but for the Crabs, a Lee of Lavender Ashes to wash, or a Decoction of Rue, Wormwood, Tobacco, and Salt, is enough; or Snuff of Tobacco, or Spanish Snuff rubbed on▪ Tobacco cures Scratch, Itch, or little Ulcers; its Infusion, Decoction, or Syrup, vomit and purge violently, and are good in Apoplexy (after proper Bleeding) Lethargy, Palsy, Suffocation of the Womb, Stomach, or Breast loaded with Phlegm, Stomach pall'd or relaxed, Shortness of Breath, without Fever, &c. Scroder recommends its Syrup and Water in Fevers, Obstructions of the Lungs, and Asthma; the green Leaves are balsamic and vulnerary, the dried vomit and purgseverely; they must therefore be used with great Judgment and Caution; the American is much stronger than the English; the Leaves, bruised and [Page 289] applied to the Part, eases the Pain of the Gout, they being of a very narcotic Nature; their Juice rubbed on the Stinging of Nettles, cures it. The Oil of Tobacco, dropped into a Dog, Cat, or other Creature's Mouth, kills them mostly, either in a shorter or longer Space; its Infusion in Wine, rubbed on a paralytic Limb, is excellent. Willis commends the Use of Tobacco in a Camp, both against Scarcity of Provisions, and Camp Diseases, as Cholic, Looseness, Ulcers, Pains of the Head and Joints, Scurvy, and its Symptoms. Its Decoction cures the Scab in Beasts. Its Ashes rubbed on the Teeth whitens them much. Its Juice drank is good in a Dropsy, for it vomits and purges both by Stool and Urine; hence it cleanses the urinary Passages from Sand, Gravel, and Mucilage. If the Dregs left in the Still (after the Water is drawn off from the bruised Herb) be first set a Fortnight in Horse-dung, then hung up in a Cellar, the Liquor that drops from it, is good for Cramps, Achs, Gout, Sciatica, Scab, Itch, Ulcers, Cankers, and Sores, &c. Its Smoke, drawn up the Anus, is good in the Iliac.

309.

TORMENTIL, or SEPTFOIL (Tormentilla) dries and astringes powerfully, hence no Herb is more used in all Fluxes of the Belly or Uterus, taken any Way; it is also a Diaphoretic and Counter-poison, therefore used against all Poisons, Plague, pestilential and contagious Diseases, especially if attended with a Looseness; it is also added to all vulnerary Drinks, Ointments, Plaisters, &c. It heals old and putrid Ulcers and Abscesses; its Extract given from half a Dram to a Dram, after the Use of Rhubarb, excels most Medicines in an epidemic Dysentery or Looseness. The Juice of the Herb, but especially [Page 290] of the Root, stays all Fluxes and Bleedings in any Part, and expels most malignant Poisons, if a Dram of the powdered Root be taken daily. A Decoction of the Herb or Root in Wine (if no Fever attend, for then it must be given in Water, as the white Decoction) answers the same End. If, after any violent Heat by Exercise, or hard Labour, a Person's Urine seems covered with Fat, Grease, or Oil, the Person being feverish at the same Time, a Decoction of this Root, drank, cures in a few Days; it is said to cure Sheep of the Rot, and several other Diseases; its Juice opens Obstructions of the Liver and Lungs, and is good in the Jaundice. A Bath of its Decoction, often sitten in, prevents Abortion; or its strong Decoction, sweetened with Syrup, or Conserve of Roses, drank; or, if a Plaister of it and Vinegar is laid to the Back. Its Powder, drank in Plantain Water, is good against Incontinence of Urine; it is also good in Ruptures, and to dissolve clotted Blood, and for Wounds, Sores, Bruises, and Hurts; outwardly used, is said to be good in all Knots and Tumours about the Neck, Throat, and Ears; given inwardly, it is good for Catarrhs and Whites; the Juice, with Vinegar, is good to rub sore and scurfy Heads, and to wash the Piles, either the Leaves of Cinquefoil, or Roots of Bistort, are very good and sufficient Substitutes to this. Tormentil Root is also a Substitute to Oak Bark for tanning Leather.

TORMENTIL. This virtuous Plant I never saw grow in all my Travels, neither can I get it from Europe.

310.

TREFOIL (Marsh or Water) (Trifolium Palustre) its Infusion or Decoction in Wine, Ale, or Water, is of singular Service in all arthritic and rheumatic Pains, if drank long enough; it is also a great [Page 291] Stomachic and Antiscorbutic, good in Dropsies, Intermittents, and Catarrhs. Its great and extensive Virtues make a sufficient Recompence for its Bitterness. It is an universal Remedy in the Northern Countries, in all Diseases; a Glass-full of its Decoction in Ale, drank every four Hours during a Fit of the Gout, gives very great Relief. Dr. Tancred Robinson says, He has observed the Powerfulness of this Herb in hydropic Cases, by seeing scabby and consumptive Sheep driven into Marshes abounding with this Plant, and they were perfectly healed by eating it.

TRIFOLIUM PALUSTRE. We have had it from Europe, but it soon went off; I once saw one Root of it in a Cedar-Swamp natural.

311.

TURNEPS (Rapus) stewed in their own Juice in an Oven, and the Liquor poured off, and sweetened with Sugar, have often given Relief in a Cough. Our first Colonies in America, when grievously afflicted with the Scurvy, were cured by Turneps, says Ray. They are a good Pectoral Diuretic, and increase Seed; half a Dram of the Seed, drank, excites Venery, and expels Small-pox and Measles; the Parings of the Root roasted, and laid behind the Ear, is a Secret both for Tooth-ach and Head-ach; applied outwardly, they are good in Ulcers of the Legs, Tumours of the Breast, or other scorbutic or scrophulous Tumours. Etmuller extols their Decoction drank in the Iliac; the Juice, sweetened with Sugar, is good for sore Mouths, and for a Cough from too much Acid. These and Navew are much alike.— Tussilago. See Colt's-foot.

312.

TUTSAN or PARK LEAVES (Androsaemum) has, by Country People in all Ages, been accounted a sovereign Plant to heal Wounds, or Sores, either [Page 292] outwardly or inwardly, and, therefore, never was omitted in Wound-drinks, Lotions, Baths, Oils, Ointments, &c. for green Wounds, old Ulcers, or Sores, in all which, the Experience of past Ages hath found it admirable; but, at present, this, with most of our other Simples, are neglected or despised. The Herb is moderately warm and dry, yet its Seed is of a cleansing Quality; it purges choleric Humours, like St. Peter's- wort, for it agrees with it in easing the Sciatica, Gout, and in healing Burns. Either the bruised green Herb, or Powder of the dried, applied, stops bleeding of Wounds. Tournefort says, it is opening, vulnerary, resolutive, fit for the Stone, to expel Worms, resist Poison, and prevents Madness. He says, it contains much Oil, some Salt, and Phlegm.

TUTSAN. I have often had Seed from Europe, but it never came up, and I never saw it grow in any of our Provinces.

313.

TYME, or THYME ( Thymus) eaten with Salt and Vinegar, gently expels Phlegm by Stool; its Decoction is good for Shortness of Breath, and Asthma. It expels Worms, Urine, Birth, and After-Birth. An Electuary of its Powder, and Honey, causes easy Expectoration of thick Phlegm; it dissolves fresh Swellings. The Juice, with Vinegar, rubbed on, dissolves clotted Blood, and takes away hanging Warts. A Poultise of it, with Wine and Meal, cases the Sciatica; it is good in Dimness of Sight, and in Meat or Broth; it is a good warming Stomachic; half an Ounce of the Powder given in Oxymel, fasting, brings down much Choler, and sharp Humours, and eases the Gout; a Dram of it with Mead, eases the hard Swellings of the Belly; it is good in Pains of the Sides, or Hips; a Poultise of it in Wine, applied, is good for swell'd Cods. Pliny says, its Smell rouzes Epileptics out of their Fits.

[Page 293]

314.

MOTHER OF THYME, OR WILD THYME ( Serpyllum) is much the same as Thyme, being a hot and dry Herb, it moves Urine and Menses; it is good for the Head, Uterus, or Stomach, for Spitting of Blood and Cramps A Bath, with much Thyme in it, brings the Menses; it is used outwardly for Watchings, Head-ach, and Giddiness. For a St. Anthony's Fire, common People drink its warm Decoction, and fall into a Sweat, whereby they mostly get well. Hoffman prescribes a good Water against Catarrhs, of the Tops of Thyme infused in Marshmallows Wine, and set a Fortnight in the Sun in a Jar-glass, then distilled; put the Water that comes off on fresh Thyme, infuse in the Sun, and distil, as before, and to each Pint of the Water put half an Ounce of shaved Sassafras; Dose, a Spoonful at Night when the Catarrh begins to be troublesome; he says, it also prevents Apoplexy, Epilepsy, and Palsy. A Handful of it infused in Rose Wine, and strained, and drank with four Drops of Oil of Sassafras, cures the Green-sickness. The Spirit of the Herb, and its distill'd Water, are good in sleepy Diseases and Vapours. A Dram of the Powder provokes Urine. For an inveterate Cough or Rheum, a Tea of it at Nine o'Clock at Night, with a little Virgin Honey, or mixt with Cow's Milk, is good. Thyme and Savoury, being much alike, may be used as such.

315.

VALERIAN (wild) (Valeriana) the Root is alexipharmac, sudorific, and diuretic, good for the Plague, if mixt with Venice Treacle and Mithridate; beneficial also for weak Sight, an Asthma, [Page 294] old Cough, and Pleurisy, used with Liquorice, Raisins, and Anise. It is prevalent in Obstructions of the Liver, Spleen, Uterus, and Jaundice. Its Decoction in Wine, dropp'd into the Eyes, strengthens their Sight, and takes off all Spots. It eases the Head-ach, brings down the Menses, moves Sweat, &c. by Bathing. By Fumigation it helps Catarrhs; it draws out of the Flesh Splinters, or any other foreign Body. Schroder says, it cleanses inveterate Ulcers. Hoffman will only allow it to be diuretic. Half a Spoonful of the powdered Root in Wine, Water, &c. cures the Epilepsy. Sylvius justly prefers it to Peony. Its Leaves cure slight Wounds. The Root is a good Antihysteric, gives great Relief in the Vapours, in all convulsive Motions, and in the most violent nervous Asthma, if a Wine Glass full of its Tea, or Infusion, is often drank warm. The Leaves are said to cure the Thrush in the Mouth. It is certain, that wild Valerian Root, in Powder, Infusion, Decoction, Tea, Extract, or Tincture, are of most extensive Use, in all nervous Disorders, Fevers, nervous Pleurisies, dry Asthma's, Hysterics, Hypo, Cramps, Convulsions, Epilepsy, For the Epilepsy, half a Spoonful of Valerian Root Powder in Wine, or any other fit Liquor; or the distill'd Water of Southernwood, often given; or a Knife Point full of Powder of the Coal at the Root of Mugwort, taken up on St. John's Day, or a Piece of it hung about the Neck; or, after a Vomit, from a Scruple to a Dram of powdered Hasle moss; or powdered Catkins of Hasle given in the same Doses, but purge after it three or four times. Juice of Goat's Rue drank to half an Ounce; Powder of True love Berries ( Herba Paris) from half a Scruple to half a Dram in Lime-flower Water; or powdered Henbane Seeds given forty Days in fresh Juice of Housleek; begin with six Grains, and add a Grain to each Dose till it comes to 24. Let the Sick carry Juniper Berries in his Pocket, and eat a [...]ew every Morning fasting. Take Juniper Berries a Pound, sprinkle them often with the best Malaga Wine, and dry them; then let them be dried the last Time in the Oven (after the Bread is drawn) without Burning; but taken out moist, and sprinkled with Sacchar. Chrystallin an Ounce, Ambergrease half a Dram▪ mix all well, and keep in a glass Bottle, to be taken every Morning, from 10 to 16 Berries daily, for a Month; drink a little maced Ale after, and walk; or, a Spoonful or two of Spirit of Lilly of the Valley (as prescribed by Hoffman) in a Glass of Wine; or, half a Dram of Powder of Club-moss in Wine; or, an Amulet of Male Peony Root, taken up between the Hours of 11 and 12 of the Day, between July 11 and 22; or, a Tincture of its Flowers, prepared with Spirit of Wine. After the Sick has used Henbane Seed 40 Days as above, then take Juice of Rue, and of the inner Bark of Elder, of each half a Pound; white Wine three Pounds; boil in a close Vessel to a Half; Dose, two or three Spoonfuls fasting daily, till it is all taken. Juice, or Powder of Rue, long taken, is of great Service; Powder of Soap -wort Seeds, given in some proper Liquor, is good, from half a Dram, to two Scruples, or Ashes of near ripe Grains of Wheat in Peony Water. [Page 295] Apoplexy, Palsy, and Vertigo. It contains much volatile, oily, aromatic Salt. Its Decoction, drank, is of special Use against Plague, and pestilential Fevers. It expels Wind in Stomach or Belly, and is good for inward Sores, or Wounds, or outward Bruises and Hurts. It abates the Swelling of the Cods from Cold or Wind. It is called the Countryman's Treacle. If the Bark (being necessarily given too soon after Fevers) cause a Stiffness, Pain, Contraction, or Numbness of the Joints or Muscles, put the Person to Bed, and give three or four Doses of this powdered Root, and drink Sack Whey, or Posset Drink after; he will soon fall into an easy fine Sweat, and will be well in a few Hours. I have often tried and seen its Success herein.

316.

WALNUT-TREE ( Juglans) its inner Bark, dried, is a strong Vomit; the Juice of the Root is a violent [Page 296] Purge; the Nuts are certainly an Antidote against Plague and Poisons. A Decoction of the outer Bark of the Nut, poured on the Earth, makes Worms creep out strangely. Ray says, the Nuts have a peculiar Faculty to bring down the Menses, when other Medicines have been used in vain; first soak them in warm Water, then blanch them, put the Kernels two Days in Aqua Vitae, and eat two or three every Morning ten Days before the Time. A Decoction of the Leaves, used externally, is good in the Evil, if a little Sugar is put to it, and Cloths dipp'd in it, and applied to the Sores. Nothing exceeds the Oil of the Nut, in the Stone, whether given inwardly, or in Clysters. The Powder of the dried Catkins, from a Scruple to a Dram, given in Wine, is surprizing in the Strangulation of the Womb; and good in a Bloody Flux.

Water-pempernel. See Brook-lime and Male-Pimpernel. Water-Plantain. See Plantain. Water-Hyssop. See Hyssop. Water-Germander. See Germander. Water-Dock. See Dock. Water-Cresses. See Cresses. Water-Lilly. See Lilly. White-Lilly. See Lilly. Wild Flax. See Flax. Wild-Sage. See Sage. Wood-Mercury. See Mercury. Water-Fern, or Osmond-Royal. See Fern. Water-flag, or Flower de-luce. See Orrice. Water-Mint. See Mint. Water Hemp, or Water-Agrimony. See Hemp.

317.

VERVAIN ( Verbena) formerly called Herba Sacra, was much admired, being good in Diseases of the Head, from cold Humours; in Diseases of the Eyes and Breast; in obstinate Coughs, in Obstructions of Liver, Spleen and Jaundice; in Gripes, and Bloody Flux. It wastes and expels the Stone, [Page 297] suppresses Lust, cures Tertians, eases Arthritics, heals Wounds, and forwards the Birth; outwardly it is a noble Vulnerary; it is good for Pains of the Head, Tooth-ach, Baldness, Melancholy, Weakness, Dimness, and Redness of the Eyes. It is also useful, applied in a Poultise, to the Throat, for a Quinsey, or Hoarseness; for a Gargle, in Swellings of the Throat; in an Ointment, for Pain of the Spleen, &c. For a Swelling of the Spleen, make it into a Poultise, with the White of Egg and Barley Meal, and apply; laid under the Head at Night, or a Plaister of it, sour Leaven, and Oil of Roses, laid to the Head, cures the Head-ach, from hard Drinking. Its Decoction is thought good against the Biting of Serpents, and venomous Beasts, Plague, Tertian, and Quartan Agues. It kills and expels Worms, causes a good Colour of the Face and Body, and, drank with Peony Seeds, is very good against a Dropsy, and the diminished Office of Reins and Bladder; by cleansing them from viscous and slimy Humours; applied outwardly with Hog's Lard, it cures Swellings of the Privy Parts. The Juice, or Leaves bruised, cleanse the Skin wonderfully from all Spots, Freckles, or inflammatory Eruptions. The distill'd Water from the Herb, in its full Growth, is said to answer most of the above Intentions. The Leaves make a very good Tea for the Vapours. The Water, dropp'd into the Eyes, is good for them.

318

VIOLET ( Viola) is a Cordial Flower, and a Pectoral; it moistens, softens, and loosens, moderates the Heat of Fevers, and Pain of the Head arising thence; they are good in a Cough, Roughness of the Throat, and Pleurisy. The Flower is most [Page 298] used, and it is the Navel of it that gives the Syrup a laxative Property, but the Root of it loosens more, for three Ounces of it, infused all Night in hot Wine, or Water, strained and drank, purges; but a Dram and a Half of the powdered Seed does the same, for they all gently bring off easily moveable, watery, or bilious Humours; hence they are chiefly used for Children, Women with Child, feverish, sickly, and weak Persons. The powdered Seed, taken daily, was the famous Dr. Butler's great Secret to waste and bring away Stone. The Root is saltish, the Seed salter, all the Parts have a glutinous Sap, which prevents the Loss or Flying off of the other Parts. It is a diuretic, loosening, and cleansing Herb. The Leaves, as an Emollient, are often used in Clysters, Fomentations, and Poultises, and sometimes in hot Fevers; their Decoction is drank as a safe Cooler. Salt of Wormwood, put to the Infusion of the Root, draws out its Principles; more Salt makes it more purgative, and gives it a better Tincture. A Dram of the powdered Flowers loosens the Belly, but the Root purges upward and downward. The Syrup is not only cordial and loosening, but good in Diseases of the Breast, from saltish and sharp Humours, if it is made without Boiling. Some prepare a pleasant loosening Conserve, with Juice of the Flowers and Manna, from two Drams to four, which keeps the Belly open, and is an excellent Cordial. The Seed of Violets, Quinces, and Dog-grass, afford an excellent Emulsion for the Stone. Both Leaves and Flowers are good to cool any Heat and Inflammation of the Body, either internal or external, whether drank in Infusion or Decoction; or, applied in a Fomentation, Poultise, or Ointment, they are good for a Pain of the Head from over Watching; in Heat and Thirst, from Fevers and [Page 299] Inflammations. The Flowers of the white Violet ripen and dissolve Swellings. Their Seed resists the Poisons of Scorpions. The green, or dry Herb, and Flowers, are good in a Pleurisy, Diseases of the Lungs, and Hoarseness; to blunt and soften sharp Humours, Heat of Urine, Pains of the Back, Kidnies and Bladder, and for the Liver and Jaundice. A few Drops of Spirit of Vitriol, put to the Infusion or Decoction, make it more cooling, quench Thirst, and allay Heat more, and give them a more grateful Colour and Taste.

319.

VIOLA TRICOLOR ( Heart's-ease) or ( three Faces under a Hood) is a little warmer, yet very temperate, and by its glutinous Juice mollities in a lower Degree than Mallows, as they are weaker than Marshmallows. This is also reckoned good in Diseases of the Lungs, and for Convulsions and Epilepsy, and that its Decoction is good to wash scabb'd, or itchy Parts. Some old-Fashion'd Folks use its Juice or distill'd Water, for green Wounds, and old Sores.

320.

WHITLOW ( Paronychia rutaceo folio) Grass, is not only good to be applied, either bruised, or in a Poultise, to the Whitlow on the Fingers Ends, (which is often the Crisis or Dregs of some other Disease, and, as such, requires to be treated with Alexipharmacs and Sudorifics; see Sim. Pauli) but used with Success in an Ointment for the King's-Evil. The honourable Mr. Boyle says, that Whitlow-grass cures a Brochocele, or great thick swelled Neck.

[Page 300]

321.

WILLOW-TREE ( Salix) besides its House Uses, may be used in Medicine; for its Boughs, set about the Bed, or Leaves strewed on the Room Floors of Persons sick of raging Fevers, are very reviving. The Bark, Leaves, Flowers, and Juice, are all cooling, drying, and somewhat astringent; hence they are good in Blood-spitting, excessive Menses, and other Fluxes in either Sex, if boil'd in Wine. The Bark infused in Vinegar cures Corns, and other Risings on the Feet and Toes. A Juice gathered from the Bark whilst in Flower, used to the Eyes, takes away such Things as hinder the Sight.

322.

WILLOW-WORT; it is a Lysimachia or Loosestrife, but so called, because it grows among Willows, or on River Brinks, very tall, with a purple Flower. Its distill'd Water is a present Remedy for Hurts or Blows on the Eyes, or for Blindness, if the chrystalline Humour, or Sight itself, is not perished or hurt. It clears the Eyes from Dust, or other Things blown into them, and preserves the Sight from much Danger. An Ointment of it, May Butter, Wax, and Sugar, is good for Wounds and Thrusts; boil of the last three, of each two Drams, to each two Ounces of the Water, till all the Water is exhal'd, dip Tents or Pledgets in the cold Liquor, and apply. It heals all Sorts of foul Ulcers and Sores, and stays their Inflammation by washing them with Water, and laying on them the green or dry Leaves. The Water gargled, and sometimes drank, cures Quinsies and Evils in the Throat. It also takes off all Spots, Marks, and Scars in the Skin caused by Measles, Small Pox, [Page 301] or the like, or drank when thirsty, or on a Journey, it quenches Thirst. The Plant is astringent, vulnerary, cooling, strengthens the Eyes, is proper for Inflammations, &c. says Lemery.

323.

WINTER GREEN (Pyrola) Leaves are cooling, drying, healing and vulnerary. It i [...] celebrated both for inward and outward Use, says Schroder. Being very glutinous, it is a good Remedy for green Wounds, which it speedily heals, whether the bruised Herb, Juice, or Ointment of the Juice, with Lard, or Oil, Wax, and Turpentine, be applied, which last is a most effectual, sovereign, and expeditious Ointment. Its Decoction in Wine, or Water, with other Vulneraries, as Comfry, Horsetail, Betony, Golden-rod, Agrimony, Daisy, &c. is no less effectual for inward Wounds, or Ulcers as of Kidnies, Bladder, &c. which it wonderfully relieves. It stops Fluxe [...], either of Blood or Humours, and Bleeding of Wounds, and takes away Inflammations on the Pains of the Hurt; if presently applied, as soon as the Hurt is received, Inflammation is prevented. It is also famous for Ulcers of hard Cure, Cancers, and Fistula's. The distill'd Water, dried Herb for Decoction, or the Powder, answer the same Ends.

PYROLA. The Species mentioned, grows in our cold moist Woods, two Inches high, with round thick Leaves, like a Pear-Tree Leaf.

324.

VIPER'S BUGLOSS ( Echium) is reputed an Antidote to the Biting of Scorpions, venomous Beasts, and Poison. It expels Sadness, Melancholy, exhilarates, and mitigates the hot Fits of Agues. It increases Womens Milk, eases Pain of the Loins, Back, and Kidnies; the Roots and Seeds are best for these Uses. Its distill'd Water, when in Flower, is used inwardly and outwardly, and a Syrup [Page 302] of the Herb, Juice, and Flowers, is used in these Cases; but the Juice is so slimy, that making the Syrup requires some Art, viz. that the Herb be well beaten, then set forty-eight Hours in a Cellar, then strained, and the Juice clarified with Whites of Eggs.

325.

WOAD ( Luteola) is bitter, but not sharp, binding and drying, full of Salt; the wild Sort is most so, and resists Putrefaction more. The cultivated Woad stops Bleeedings of all Sorts, either upward or downward. The Decoction (but rather of the wild) in Wine, cures the Hardness of the Spleen, especially if the Part is [...]omented with it The manured is better for green Wounds than the Wild, it quickly heals and closes up their Lips; it powerfully represses the corroding malignant Qualities of foul eating Ulcers, Cancers, and the like. It allays and discusses all hot Inflammations, St. Anthony's Fire, and hard Tumours and Swellings, and is of excellent Use in Quinsey and Scurvy.

326.

WOOD-ROOF ( Asperula) Infused in Wine, makes merry, drives off Melancholy, is good for the Stomach and Liver, opens Obstructions, and causes an Appetite. It is said to expel Phlegm, and defend the Vitals from Infection; bruised and applied, it dissolves Imposthumes, cures Cuts, and fresh Wounds.

327.

WORMWOOD (Absinthium) is of extensive Use in Physic; it is warming and drying, strengthens the Stomach and Liver, excites an Appetite, opens Obstructions, and cures Diseases arising therefrom, [Page 303] as Jaundice, Dropsy, and putrid Fevers; expels vicious Humours by Urine and plentiful Perspiration, and kills Worms and Moths in Clothes. It is good in all Agues, for which it is given in Decoction, or Infusion in Water, Ale, Wine, or in the Juice only: but its Infusion in Wine or Ale (if the Disease will allow of Malt Liquors (is an easy, and as good a Preparation as any. Its simple distill'd Water is good for little. There is little more in its Salt obtained by Incineration, than in any other lixivial Salt. Its Decoction, Wine, Extract, and both Oils, are good, and its compound Water not bad. Its Juice is more watery and detergent, the Herb more astringent, only the dried Herb should be infused in Wine, or Ale. The Infusion, drank Evening and Morning, for some Time, helps Hysterics, Obstructions of the Spleen, and Weakness of the Stomach. Its Oil, taken on Sugar, and somewhat drank after, kills Worms, resists Poison, and is good for the Liver and Jaundice. The Use of the Herb checks immoderate Venery. The Root has a slow Bitterness, which affects not the Head and Eyes, like the Leaves; hence the Root should be accounted among the best Stomachics. The Extract, mixt with the Precipitants and Absorbents, or fix'd or volatile Salts, is good in Tertians or Quotidians. Oil of the Seed, given from half a Scruple to half a Dram in some Liquor, or a Spoonful of the Juice in some Wine, taken before the Fit comes on, and the Person is put to Bed, cures Quotidians and Quartans. In a Looseness from eating too much Fruit (after the Use of Rhubarb) Wormwood Wine is excellent. A Woman raised, spread, and maintained her Reputation for the Cure of a Megrim, by only using a Fomentation to the Part of green Roots of wild Cucumber sliced, and Wormwood, of each alike, boil'd in two Parts Water, [Page 304] and one Oil; strain and use, and lay a Poultise of the strained-out Herbs to the Part, [...]fter it is fomented. A Fomentation of Wormwood boil'd in Water, and strained, has been successfully applied to a spreading Gangrene, for which some extol a Decoction of Fimi Equini in vino vel urina used after deep Scarification, adding Spirit of Sal-armoniac inter utendum. Green Wormwood, worn in the Shoes, has been found useful in cold Distempers of the Stomach. The Extract has cured several Dropsies. I have cured some of Anasarca's, by causing them to drink every Day three times, for five or six Weeks, a Decoction of Wormwood, Broom-Tops, and Camomile Flowers, strained out and Horse-radish infused in it after. Its Ashes, infused three Hours in white Wine, strained and drank often, cures an Anasarca. Whenever I have any great Expectation from the Use of Wormwood, I always order the common Sort, for the Roman comes far short of it in Virtue. That hot Rheum which runs down from the Eyes, and excoriates the Skin of the Cheeks, is cured by Juice of Wormwood, beaten up with the White of an Egg, and applied. A too habitual and free internal Use of this Herb dims the Sight for some Hours. I have known Poultises of Wormwood boil'd in Grease, Baum, or Wine, and applied with good Success to white Swellings. It boiled in Lard, and laid to Swellings of the Tonsils and Quinsey, is serviceable. A Poultise of the s [...]ft Leaves, beaten up with Whites of Eggs, is good in a Strain; or if it is boil'd in Ale, and laid on; or a Poultise of Wheat Bran boil'd in Vinegar; or a Tincture of dried Roses in Vinegar, used with wet Cloths to the Part. Its internal Use is good in such Diseases as come from a gross Blood, or Obstructions in the Capillaries, or in Viscidities, or Phlegm, which [Page 305] line the Insides of the Stomach, Bowels, or Vessels, or in too great a Sharpness of the Blood, by its opening Obstructions, cleansing, bracing, and promoting Perspiration and Urine. It is admi [...]able against Surfeits. It not only cures Pain of the Stomach, Weakness, Indigestion, Want of Appetite, Vomiting, and Loathing, but hard Swellings of the Belly. This, with Rosemary, Saffron, and Turmeric Root infused in Rhenish Wine, is a Cure for the Jaundice, and brings down the Menses; or a Decoction of it, Broom-tops, greater Celandine, white Horehound, lesser Centaury, Flowers of Hypericon, Barberry Bark, Turmeric, and Madder-Roots, strained, and Hog-lice Wine added, is not ill in a Jaundice. Wormwood and Vinegar are an Antidote to the Mischief of Mushrooms and Henbane, and to the Biting of a Shrew, and of the Sea Fish called Draco marinus, or Quaviver; mix'd with Honey, it takes away the Blackness after Falls, Bruises, &c. All other Wormwoods, the nearer they approach in Taste to pleasant or palatable, they are so much worse, for they are weaker, their Use requires so much longer Time, larger Doses, and yet less Success▪ The Herb and Pellitory of the Wall boiled in Water till soft, then strained, and a Fomentation of the Liquor used, and the Herbs laid on after in a Poultise, ease all outward Pains; or the Herb boiled in Oil till almost the Oil is wasted, strained, and anointed, cures the Pain of the Back.

328.

WOUND-WORT (Vulneraria rustica) Lemery says, contains much Oil, and a moderate Quantity of essential Salt. It is cleansing, good to heal Wounds, and strengthening. The Germans used it much [Page 306] both inwardly and outwardly, for Wounds and Hurts. Some commend it for the Gout.

329.

JESSAMINE ( Jasminum) (having been omitted in its proper Place, I shall insert it here) The Oil of its Flowers is said to discuss crude Humours. It is good for cold and catarrhous, but not hot and sanguine Bodies, if its Smell cause not a Headach and Bleeding at the Nose. The Oil is good for hard and contracted Limbs; it warms, softens, and opens the Nerves and Tendons, if used either in a Liniment of the Parts, or taken in Drink, or Clysters. It removes Diseases of the Uterus, and is of Service in old pituitous Cholics. A Poultise of the Leaves, boiled in Wine till soft, dissolves cold Swellings, hard Tumours, &c.

FINIS.

[Page]

The ENGLISH and LATIN Names of the PLANTS here treated of.

ADd [...]rs-tongue, Ophioglossum.
2 Agrimony, Agrimonia.
3 Alder-tree, Alnus.
4 Almond-tree, Amygdalus.
5 Althaea, Althaea.
6 Alisanders, Hipposelinum.
7 Angelica, Angelica.
8 Apple-tree, Malus.
9 [...]icock-tree, Malus Armeniaca.
10 Archangel, Lamium, Galeopsis.
11 Arrach, Atriplex.
12—See Atriplex Marina.
13 Asarum, Asarum.
14 Asparagus, Asparagus.
15 Asphodil, Asphodelus.
16 Arsmart, Persicaria, Hydropiper.
17 Artichoke, Cinara, Scolymus.
18 Aron, Arum.
19 Ash-tree, Fraxinus.
20 Avens, Caryophy [...]a [...]a.

21 Badmony, Spignal, Meum.
22 Bawm, Melissa.
23 Bay-tree, Laurus.
24 Beech-tree, Fagus.
25 Barberry tree, Berberis.
26 Betony, Betonica,
27 Bill-berries, Vaccinium. Vitis idaea.
28 Birch-tree, Betula.
29 Bishops-weed, Ammi.
30 Bistort, Bistorta.
31 Blue-bottle, Cyanus.
32 Borrage, Borago.
32 Bugloss, Buglossum.
33 Box tree, Buxus.
34 Bramble, Rubus sylvestris.
35 Brancursine, Acanthus.
36 Brooklime. Beccabinga.
37 Broom, Genista.
37 Broom-rape, Orobanche.
38 Buckthorn, Rhamnus.
39 Burdock, Bardana major.
40 Bullace-tree, Prunus sylvestris.
41 Burnet, Pimpinella.
42 Butcher's-broom, Ruscus.
43 Butterburr, Petasites.
44 Bryony white, Bryonia alba.
45 — black, Bryonia nigra.

[Page 308]

46 Camomile, Chamaemelum.
47 Campions, Lychnis.
48 Cockle, Nigellastrum, Pseudomelanthium.
49 Campion barren, Lychnis segetum.
50 — (Rose) Lychnis coronaria.
51 Carduus, Benedictus.
52 Carline-thistle, Carlina.
53 — black, Chamaeleon niger.
54 — Sow-thistle, Soncus.
55 Celandine, Chelidonium.
56 Centaury lesser, Centaurium minus.
57 Carway, Carum.
58 Calamus aromaticus, Acorus.
59 Cherry-tree, Cerasus.
60 Chesnut-tree, Castanea.
61 Chervil, Chaerephyllum, Cerefolium.
62 Chick Pease, Cicer sativum.
63 Chickweed, Alsine.
64 Sea Chickweed, Alsine marina.
65 Cinquefoile, Pentaphyllum.
66 Clary, Horminum.
67 Clovejuly Flower, Caryophyllum.
68 Clovers, Trifolia pra [...]ensia.
69 Clowns Wound-wort, Sideritis tuberosa radix.
70 Costmary, or Alecost, Costus hortorum, Balsamita mas.
71 Columbines, Aquilegi [...].
72 Colts-foot, Tussilago.
73 Comfry, Symphytum, Consolida major.
74 Cocksfoot Grass, Dactyloides.
75 Cocksfoot Quick grass.
76 Dew Grass, Gramen. Mannae esculentum.
77 Cornelian-tree, Cornus mas.
78 Coriander, Coriandrum.
79 Cow Parsnip, Sphondylium.
80 Cross-wort, or Mugweed, Cruciata.
81 Cudweed, or Cottonweed, Gnaphalium.
82 Cummin, Cuminum.
83 Currant-tree, Ribes.
84 Cystus-dwarf, Helianthemum.

85 Daffodil, Narcissus.
86 Daisy, Bellis, Consolida minor.
87 Dandelion, Dens Leonis.
87 Devils-bit, see Scabious,
88 Dill, Anethum.
89 Dog Grass, Gramen caninum.
90 Dock, Lapathum.
91 — Blood-wort, Lapathum Sanguineum.
92 — Monks Rhubarb, Rhaponticum.
93 — Water Dock, Lapathum aquaticum.
[Page 309]94 Drop-wort Male, Filipendula.—Female, Oenanth ▪
95 Duc [...]s meat, Lens palustris.

96 Elecampane, Helenium, Enula.
97 Elder-tree, Sambucus.
98 — (dwarf) Ebulus.
99 Elm tree, Ulmus.
100 Eryngo, Eryngium.
101 Eyebright, Euphrasia.

102 Fennel, Foeniculum.
103 — Hogs, Peucedanum.
104 Ferns, Filix.
105 — (Water) Osmonda regalis.
106 Feverfew, Febrifuga, Matricaria.
107 Fig-tree, Ficus.
108 Fig-wort, Scophularia.
109 Fir-tree, Abies.
110 Flax, Linum.
111 — wild, Linum montanum.
112 Flixweed, Sophia Chirurgorum.
113 Fleabane, Conyza.
114 Fleawort, Psyllium
115 Fenugreek, Foenum graecum.
116 Foxglove, Digitalis.
117 Fumitory, Fumaria.

118 Garden Cresses, Nasturtium.
119 — Water Cresses, Nasturtium aquaticum.
120 Garlick, Allium.
121 Germander, Chamaedrys.
122 — Water, Scordium.
123 Gith, or Fennel-flower, Nigolla.
124 Gladwin, Xyris, Spatula foetida.
125 Glasswort, Kali Salicornia.
126 Goats Rue, Galega.
127 Goats-beard, Tragopogon.
128 Golden-rod, Virga aurea.
129 Goosberry-bush, Grossularia.
130 Goose-grass, Aparine.
131 Gromwell, Lithospermum.
132 Ground-ivy, Hedera terrestris.
133 Ground-pine, Chamoepitys.
134 Groundsel, Senecio, Erygerum.

135 Hares Ears, Bupleurum.
136 — Foot, Lagopus.
137 Harts-tongue, Phyllitis, Lingua cervina.
138 Hawkweed, Hieracium.
139 Hawthorn, Oxyacantha
140 Hasle-tree, Corylus sylvestris.
[Page 310]141 Heath, Erica.
142 Hellebore, white, Helleborus albus.
143 — black, Helleborus niger.
144 Hemlock, Cicuta.
145 Hemp, Cannabis.
146 Hemp Agrimony, Eupatorium Cannabinum.
147 Henbane, Hyoscyamus.
148 Herb Robert, Herba Roberti.
149 Herb Paris, Herba Paris.
150 Herb One-blade, Monophyllon.
151 Herb Tway-blade, Ophrys bifolia.
152 Holly-tree, Agrifolium.
153 Honeysuckle, Caprifolium Periclymenum.
154 Hops, Lupulus.
[...]55 Horehound, white, Marrubium album.
156 Horse-tail, Equisetum.
157 Hounds-tongue, Cynoglossum.
158 Housleek, Sedum.
159 Hypericon, Hypericum.
160 Hyssop, Hysopus.
161 Hyssop (Hedge or Water) Gratiola.

162 Jack by the Hedge, Alliaria.
163 Juniper, Juniperus.
164 Ivy, Hedera corymbifera.

165 Knapweed, Jaccea.
166 Knot-grass, Centinodium, Polygonum.

167 Ladies Mantle, Alchimilla.
168 Ladies Bed-straw, Gallium luteum.
169 Ladies Thistle, Carduus Mariae.
Ladies Slipper, See Hellebore.
170 Lambs Lettuce, Valerianella.
171 Lavender, Lavendul [...].
172 Lavender-cotton, Chamaecyparissus.
173 Leeks, Porrum.
174 Lilly of the Valley, Lilium Convallium.
175 Lilly (Water) Nymphaea.
176 Lilly, white, Lillium album.
177 Lime or Linden-tree, Tilia.
178 Liquorice, Glycyrrhi [...]a.
179 Liver-wort, Lichen, Hepatica.
180 Loose-strife, Lysimachia.
181 Lovage, Levisticum.
182 Lungwort, Pulmonaria.

183 Madder, Rubia tinctorum.
[Page 311]184 Maidenhair (black) Trichomanes.
185 — (white) Ruta muraria.
186 Mallows, Malva.
187 Marjoram wild, Origanum.
188 — (sweet) Marjorana.
189 Maudlin, Ageratum, Balsamita foemina.
190 Marygold, Caltha, Calendula.
191 Masterwort, Imperatoria.
192 Meadowsweet, Ulmaria.
193 Medlars, Mespilus.
194 Melilot, Melilotus.
195 Mercuries, Mercuriales.
196 Mercuries, Mercuriales.
197 Mercuries, Mercuriales.
198 Millefoil, Yarrow, Millefolium.
199 Mint, Mentha.
200 — Calamint, Calamintha.
201 — Cat-mint, Cattaria.
202 Misletoe, Viscum.
203 Moneywort, Nummularia.
204 Moonwort, Lunaria.
205 — lesser, Lunaria minor.
206 Motherwort, Cardiaca.
207 Mouse-ear, Pilosella, Auricula Muris.
208 Mugwort, Artemisia.
209 Mulberry-tree, Morus.
210 Mullein, Verbascum, Tapsus Barbatus.
211 Mustards, Sinapi.
212 Mustards, Sinapi.
213 Mustards, Sinapi.
214 Mustards, Sinapi.
215 Mustards, Sinapi.
216 Mushrooms, Fungus.
217 Myrtle [...]tree, Myrtus.

219 Navel-wort, Cotyledon, Umbilicus Veneris.
220 Navew, Napus.
221 Nettles (stinging) Urtica.
—dead. See Archangel.
222 Nightshade, Solanum.
223—Climbing, Dulcamara.

224 Oak-tree, Quercus.
225 Onions, Cepa.
226 Orpine, Telephium, Crassula.
227 Orrice, Flower-de-luce, Iris.
228 — yellow, Iris palustris lutea.
229 — pale, Iris palustris pallida.

230 Parsley, Petroselinum.
231 Peach-tree, Malus Persica.
232 Pear-tree, Pyru [...],
233 Paeony, Paeoni [...] ▪
234 Pellitory of the Wall, Parietaria.
[Page 312]235 Pellitory of Spain, Pyrethrum.
236 Pennyroyal, Pulegium.
237 Perriwinkle, Vinca, Pervinca.
238 Pettywhin, Anonis.
239 Pilewort, Scrophularia minor, Ci [...]lhdonium minus.
240 Pimpernel, Anigallis.
241 — Water — aquatica.
242 Phillyrhea, Mock-privet.
243 Plantain, Plantago.
244 —Water— aquatica.
245 —Sea, — Marina.
246 — Buckshorn, Coronopus Vulgaris.
247 Plum-tree, Prunus.
248 Poley Mountain, Polium.
249 Polypody, Polipodium.
250 Poplar, Populus.
251 Poppy Garden, Papaver hortense.
252 — Corn — erraticum.
253 — Horned — Corniculatum.
254 Primroses, Primula Veris.
255 Puislane, Portulaca.

256 Quince-tree, Malus cydonia.

257 Ragwort, Jacobaea.
258 Rasberry, Rubus idaeus.
259 Radishes Raphanus hortensis
260 — Horse, Raphanus rusticanus.
261 Rocket, Eruca.
262 Rosa Solis, Sun-dew,
263 Roses, (red and white) Rosa.
264 Rosemary, Rosmarinus.
265 Rue, Ruta.
266 Rupture-wort, Herniaria.

267 Saffron, Crocus.
268 Sanicle, Sanicula.
269 Sage, Salvia.
270 — Wood, Scorodonia.
271 Saracens Confound, Solidago Saracenica.
272 Dorias Woundwort, Doria.
273 Savine, Sabina,
274 Savoury, Satureia.
275 Saw-wort, Serratula.
276 Saxifrage, Saxifraga.
277 Scabious, Scabiosa.
278 Devils-bit, Morsus Diaboli.
279 Scurvy-grass, Cochlearia.
280 Self-heal, Brunella, Prunella.
281 Bugle, Bugula.
282 Service-tree, Sorbus.
283 Shepherds Purse, Bursa pastoris.
284 Silverweed, Argentina, Potentilla.
285 Sloe-tree, Prunus sylvestris.
[Page 313]286 Solomon's Seal, Sigillum Solomonis, Polygonatum.
287 Sorrel, Acetosa.
288 — Wood, Acetosella, Alleluja.
289 Southernwood Male, Abrotanum.
290 Sowbread, Cyclamen, Artanita.
291 Speedwell, Male, Veronica mas.
292 — Female, Elatine, Veronica foemina.
293 Spleenwort, Asplenium, Scolopendria, Ceterach.
294 Spurge, Tythymalus.
295 Spurry, Spergula.
296 Squills, Scilla.
297 Star-wort, Tripolium.
298 Staves acre, Staphisagria.
299 Stinking Arach, Atriplex olida.
300 Stockjuly Flower, Leucoium.
301 Strawberries, Fragaria.
302 Swallow-wort, Asclepias.
303 Succory, Cichoreum.

304 Tansy, Tanacetum.
305 Throatwort, Cervicaria.
306 Throw-wax, Perfoliata.
307 Toad-flax, Linaria.
308 Tobacco, Tabacum, Nicotiana.
309 Tormentil, Tormentilla.
310 Trifoil (Water) Trifolium aquaticum.
311 Turnips, Rapum.
312 Tutsan, Androsae [...]um.
313 Tyme, Thymus.
314 — wild, Serpyllum.

V W

315 Valerian, Valeriana.
316 Walnut-tree, Juglans.
317 Vervain, Verbena.
318 Violets, Viola.
319 — Hearts-ease, Viola tricolor.
320 Whitlow-grass, Paronychia, rutacco folio.
321 Willow-tree, Salix.
322 Willow-wort, Lysimachia spicata.
323 Winter-green, Pyrola.
324 Vipers Bugloss, Echium.
325 Woad, Luteola.
326 Woodroof, Asperula.
327 Wormwood, Absinthium.
328 Wound-wort, Vulneraria rustica.
329 Jesamine, Jassminum.

[Page 314]

AN INDEX OF DISEASES and REMEDIES.
N. B. The Figures denote not the Pages, but the Number of the Plants. Where the same Disease is mentioned oftener than once, in the same Number, the Figure or Number is thus distinguished, twice or thrice, &c

ABORTION, or Miscarriage, to prevent, 30, 100, 102, 183, 198, 243, 256, 269, 304, 309. See Astringents.
Abortion to cause. See Birth and After-Birth to expel.
Abscesses, 71, 277, 278. See Ulcers,
Aches, 7, 46, twice, 45, 308▪ See Pains.
Absorbents, 5, 117. See Humours sharp to blunt.
After-Pains to ease, 2, 41, 132, 193, 225, 233.
Agues, 7, 13, 19, 20, 26, 46, 51, 56, 70, 106, 121, 154, 160, 161, 196, 198, 211, 222, 236, 243, 246, 255, 265, 287, 303, 304, 310, 324, 327. See Intermittents, Perspiration to promote, Sudorifics.
Ales or Wines to fine, preserve, restore, or give a delicate Flavour, 20, 41, 192, 221, 132, 227, 237.
Alexipharmacs, 7, 41, 43, 52, 93, 97, 121, 126, 149, 181, 190, 192, 277, 278, 302, 315. See Plague to prevent, or cure. Pestilential Fevers. Poisons, to expel. Sudorifics.
Animals to fatten, 4, twice, 14, 24, 115, 127, 145, 295.
Anodynes, 4, 5, 6, twice, 97, 110, 144, 147, 176, 251. See Emollients. Pain to ease. Sleep to cause.
Antidote to too much Opium, 70, 106, 202.—To Toadstool and Henbane, 144, 221, 259, 327.—to Nightshade, 33, 209.—to Hellebore, 142, 256, twice. [Page 315] —to Mushrooms, 102, 221, 211, 232, thrice, 327. —to Litharge, 230.—to Mercury lodged in the Body, 96, 102, 221.—to prevent Danger from the habitual Use of Aloes, 210.
Antihysterics, 7, 12, 21. See Hysterics, to prevent, relieve, or cure.
Anus excoriated, or ulcerated, 5, 157, 199 238, thrice, 241. See Excoriations. Erosions. Ulcers.
—fallen down, or relaxed, 18, 135, 210, 217, 244, 304.
Appetite and Digestion to raise, or restore▪ 23, twice, 58, 59 60 63, 77 122 127 129 138 162 twice, 181, 187 199, twice, 209. 211, 225, twice, 256 287, 296, 326, 327, twice, See Vomiting. Belching.
Apoplexy, 67, 143, 159, 174, 177, 191, 202▪ 211, twice, 254, 261, 264 300, 308, 314, 315. See Cephalics.
Arthritic Pains, 13, 37, 39, 59, 148, 164, 212, 236, 310. See Pains. Gout. Sciatic.
Aperients, 14, 17, 87, 102, 118, 173, 187, 200, 213. 220, 238, 270, 274, 276, 277, 290. See Obstructions to open.
Asthma, 5, twice, 8, 18, 26, 37, 41, 43, 44, thrice, 50, 54, 72, 79, 80, 94, 96, 102, 103, twice, 106, 107, 113, 118, 124, 142, 155, 157, 160, 162, 176, 181, 184, twice, 185, 187, 189, 191, thrice, 200, twice, 220, 221, twice, 224, 225, 227, 249, 259, 264, twice, 265, 267, thrice, 274, 277, 289, 308, twice, 313, 315, thrice. See Cough, Lungs stuff'd.
Astringents, 1, 2, 30, 34, 40, 56, 65, 69, 80, 84, 86, 93▪ 99, 164, 165, 166, 167, 198, 203, 207, 209, 217, 219, 224, 226, 228, 234, 137, 256, 263, twice, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 292, 301, 305, 308, 309, 322.
Atrophy, 63. See Consumptions.
Attenuants, 19, 50, 66, 97, 118, 123, 132, 133, 227, 308, &c.
Achores, 5.
Acidity to correct, 7, 103, 289, 237.—Acrimony to correct, 73, 157, 178, 167, 251, 293, 209, 16, 110, 129.

Back to strengthen, or its Pains to ease, 46, twice, 66, 105, 152, 177, 212, 285.
Baldness to cure, 5, 33, 97, 99, 154, 157, 184, twice, 217, 231, 256, 289, thrice, 317.
Balsamics. See Vulneraries.
[Page 316]Barrenness to cure, 66 167 191 199 twice 201 264 [...]69 291 twice, See Womb to cleanse, or brace.
Barrenness to cause, 175 273 293.
Bath Astringent. See Astringents.
—Emollient 46. See Emollients.
—Hysteric, 7 21 181. See Hysterics.
—Emmenagogic. See Menses to provoke.
Bees and Wasps Stings to cure, 5 22 23 158.
Bees fatal to them, 46, 77, 106.
Belching and Vomiting, 8, 22, 26, 69, 70. See Vomiting▪ Belching, and Loathing to cure.
Belly to loosen, or Laxatives, 5, twice, 8, 9, 11, 12, 59, 60, 86, 91, 96, 97, 103, thrice, 106, 107, 121, 133, 142, 146, 154, 160, 170, 178, 192, 195, 209, twice, 211, 225, 231, 232, 247, twice, 248, 249, 253, 299, 301, thrice, 308, 312, 313, 318, thrice.
—to bind, 59, 87, 225, twice, 256, twice, 287, 309. See Fluxes to cure.
—swell'd, 313. See Dropsy.
—inflam'd 136 twice, 193. See Inflammations.
Bilious Constitutions, good for, 34 128 132 twice, 136 158 179 207 247 255 287 301. See cooling and moistening, and cooling and drying.
—bad for, 14 78 88 107 120 132 155 171 173 225 230, and all hot, acrid, stimulant, saline Plants.
Binders and Bracers. See Astringents.
Birth and after-birth to expel, 6 7 twice, 21 26 36 44 66 67 100 106 113 133 142 153 159 171 thrice, 17 [...] 181 twice, 190 twice, 191 196 208 213 233 236 241 267 269 300 twice, 230 273 307 313 317. See Menses to provoke.
Biting or Stinging of Vipers, Serpents, Scorpions, &c. to cure, 26 29 39 47 68 93 102 113 120 twice, 122 twice, 126 130 133 135 twice, 173 181 187 191 199 209 211 221 230 240 245 246 248 thrice, 265 266 269 289 302 318 324 23. See Alexipharmacs, and Poison to expel.
Bite of Mad Dogs to cure 26 twice, 41 twice, 49 twice, 56 74 107 179 204 240 243 265 twice, 281.
—to recall its Poison, 77.
—of a Shrew, 120 327.
Bite of a Spider, 189.
Bladder excoriated, 217, 277 291. See Excoriations and Erosions.
—pained 134 twice, 136. See Pains.
—inflamed. See Inflamations.
[Page 317]—ulcerated, 147 twice, 178 twice, 192 196 200. See Ulcers.
—to blister, 211.
Blisters of the Small Pox dangerous to cure, 97.
Bleeding of Wounds to cure, 69 twice, 84 157 165 twice, 167 175 180 198 199 twice, 205 210 224 243 246 292 312, See Blood to stop.
Blood-shot Eyes, 82, See Eyes red and inflamed.
Blood to purify, 2 6 32 twice, 39 61 64 102 109 117 twice, 118 119 133 154 184 179 189 209 287 291 301 304.
—to stop, 30 81 93 209 228 268 275 286 290 301 323. See Astringents, and bleeding of Wounds to cure.
—coagulated to dissolve, 30 86 108 121 133 148 159 177 183 204 211 213 223 270 278 280 281 284 286 twice, 307 twice, 309 313.
—Spitting and Vomiting to cure, 1 2 26 30 35 39 40 41 63 65 72 73 83 84 96 110 112 136 137 twice, 147 twice, 155 156 twice, 159 165 177 180 188 198 209 210 217 220 221 thrice, 224 225 228 231 243 thrice, 244 246 251 256 263 269 281 twice, 283 284 285 290 292 314 321. See Astringents. Vulneraries.
Bleeding at the Nose to stop, 1 26 41 65 74 82 158 165 166 177 180 198 237 207 221 twice, 228 246 252 262 263 265 281 283 twice, 285 290 292.
Bleeding by Stool to cure, 1 2 4 5 thrice, 30 40 41 156 165 198 237 246 292 55 65 77 94 112 114 122 twice, 130 148 164 166 175 177 180 183 209 210 twice, 224 thrice, 231 237 243 259 192 twice, 193 203 207 214 254 256 257 268 281 twice, 282 283 284 285 291 301 317 323. See Fluxes.
Bloody Urine, 2 14 26 41 96 112 156 165 166 178 198 twice, 228 237 244 246 255 280 281 283 twice, 285 292.
Boils or Buboes, 18 41 43 44 50 51 66 107 twice, 118 122 149 150 210 twice, 225 thrice, 265 277.
Boils habitual to prevent, 39.
Bones broken to strengthen soon, 42 86 twice, 152 286. See Limbs dislocated or fractured.
Bowels excoriated, 114 115 257. See Excoriations and Erosions.
—pained, 14 twice, See Cholic. Gripes.
Bott-worms in Horses to kill, 132 134 192 273.
Breast pained, 14 265 twice, 319. See Pains.—Womens Breasts inflamed, 5 134 254 257 318 319. See [Page 318] Inflammations.—Breasts hard with coagulated Milk, 46 46 63 73 [...]6 133 199 257 303.
Breast, its hot Diseases, 5 291 318. Pleurisy, and Lungs inflamed.
Breath stinking to help, 7 70 78 82 191 264.
Breath to sweeten, after Onions or Garlick, 265 twice.
Brain to strengthen, 57 101 102 133 199 248 26 [...] 265 291 304. See Cephalics.
Breasts too large to brace up, 167.
—hard and cold Tumours, 222.
Breasts swell'd to cure, 212 311.
—sore to cure, 114, 118 157 255.
Bread to substitute in a Famine, 104 224 twice.
Breeding-Womens Longings, 129.
Bruises, Blows, Hurts, or Falls, 2 10 16 35 57 73 81 105 113 135 148 160 165 180 twice, 181 189 205 223 thrice, 254 257 270 271 275 280 306, 309, 315 210.
Bulimia, 327.
Burns and Scalds, 5 8 35 39 85 97 twice, 98 104 110 145 157 158 164 168 173 176 177 twice, 205 twice, 210 225 226 234 242 254 312.
—by Gunpowder, 255.

Cachexy, 2 18 21 70 102 117 120 146 155 178 189 211 303 304.
Cancers, 51 73 81 108 143 twice, 144 148 163 168 169 192 212 222 242 257 292 301 323 325. See Ulcers.
Canker 39 twice, 204 212 292 308.
Cantharides swallowed, 11 29 299.
Carminatives, 21 See Wind to expel.
Catarrhs, 2 twice, 5 twice, 20 42 37 58 69 73 77 110 120 121 123 146 157 165 188 191 211 217 251 twice, 252 301 308 309 310 314 315 324. See Rheum. Cough.
Caustics 125 294 298.
Cephalics, 7 20 22 26 68 70 96 121 160 187 188 191 264 274 313 314 317.
Chapp'd Hands or Feet, 249 304.
Cherries, their Difference, 55.
—their Stones not to be swallowed, 59.
Chilblains, 164. See kibed Heels.
Childrens Colour to mend, 54 59 256.
—Male or Female to conceive, 196 twice.
Chin Cough, 163 224, 236 296.
[Page 319] Chl [...]ros [...]s. See Green-Sickness.
Cholera M [...]rbus, 83. See Vomiting.
Cleansers, or Detergents, 50 62 63 66 122 128 132 133 153 160 twice, 168 175 179 187 195 196 200 204 208 213 214 219 227 257 264 277 280 284 290 291 300 twice, 308 312 318 328.
Cloths to keep from Moths, 200 twice, 327.
—to take out their Stains, 50.
Coagulated Blood under the Skin to dissolve, 20 23 44 61. See Coagulated.
Cods swell'd or inflamed, 2 51 58 60 78 82 86 149 229 265 313 315 317.
Coffee its Substitute, 62 twice.
Colds. See Cough, Catarrh, Rheums.
Cold phlegmati [...] Diseases to cure, 6 7. See Inciders, Warmer [...].
Cold Humours on the Stomach to digest, 6 78 twice. See Stomachica.
—Swelling to discuss, 88. See Swelling.
—of the Uterus or Pudenda, 106.
—almost lost in 120,
Cholic, 37 41 51 61 twice, 88 105 132 141 145 148 149 152 twice, 162 176 191 192 193 197 twice, 199 210 212 229 231 246 264 265 290 291 four times, 308 329.
—from hardened Excrements, 4 39 71 88 97 110 twice, and all softening, slippery, oily Things.
Cholic flatulent, 7 21 twice, 23 26 33 39 twice, 46 thrice, 57 twice, 58 61 78 64 82 twice, 97 120 138 191 thrice, 265. See Wind to expel. Gripes.
—from sharp Humours, 4 14 97 100 110 thrice, 132. See Absorbents. Emollients.
—nephritic. See Stone. Anodynes. Emollients.
—hysteric. See Hysterics.
—bilious. See bilious Constitutions.
—phlegmatic. See Phlegm to dissolve. Inciders. Phlegm to expel. Bracers.
—from Ruptures. See Wind to expel. Looseners.
—convulsive or nervous. See Convulsions. Hysterics.
Complexion to mend, 102 twice, 317.
Conception to cause, 100. See Barrenness to cure.
Consolidants. See Wounds.
Consumptions▪ 5 18 24 32 35 39 41 63 65 twice, 7 [...] thrice, 73 86 twice, 87 110 twice, 132 twice, 137 156 189 200 220 251 254 263 269 295. See Cough.
[Page 320]Contraction, 281 304 315 twice, 329. See Cramp. Convulsion.
Contusions, 23 45 96 286. See Bruises.
Convulsions, 14 26 44 46 47 58 59 63 137 twice, 142 153 171 175 206 227 229 233 four times, 236 twice, 254 279 289 315 319 229. See Cramp. Falling-Sickness.
Coolers, Dryers, and Binders, 3 16 25 27 40 77 86 89 134 150 157 159 252 175 twice, 205 209 232 234 243 244 245 250 283 28 [...] 285 twice, 303 321 322 323 225 292 200.
Cooling and Moistening, 11 32 63 86 95 134 170 175 179 247 251 255 [...]99 twice, 301 318.
Cordials, 7 twice, 20 22 32 twice, 41 43 67 171 174 182 190 248 258 twice, 262 263 264 267 300 30 [...] 318. See Spirits to raise.
Corns to cure, 102 120 158 170 twice, 259 321.
Corpulency to prevent, 19 97 265 twice, 299.
Cosmetics, 286. See Freckles. Spots to take off the Face.
Costiveness, 6 227. See Looseners.
Cough 26, 32 41 43 44 59 65 72 82 87 96 twice, 103 106 107 110 thrice, 115 1 [...]8 120 twice, 121 122 132 133 138 140 142 145. See Consumptions.
Cough to excite, 4 5 212. See Inciders, Phlegm to dissolve, &c.
Coryza, 123 twice.
Crabs to kill, 70 twice, 308 twice.
Cramp, 5 14 23 44 46 thrice, 63 96 100 102 103 110 121 122 142 153 155 171 150 177 178 191 200 206 209 210 twice, 227 229 233 254 279 twice, 281 289 308 314 315. See Convulsions.
Cud-chewing lost, 81.
Cutters, or Inciders of Humours, [...]62 264 296. See In [...] ders.

Deafness, Noise, and Tingling in the Ears, 4 6 23 51 132 twice, 142 160 164 twice, 173 196 163 274 290 twice.
Delivery to make easy, 23 54. See Birth to expel.
Delirium, 240. See Sleep to cause.
Deobstruents. See Obstructions to open.
Detergents. See Vulneraries. Cleansers.
Diabetes to cure, 76 200.
—bad for, 28 279 twice. See Astringents.
[Page 321]Diaphoretics, 3 [...] ▪ 43 51 52 56 23 26 121 168 181 218 265 277 335. See Sudorifics.
Digestives, 46 62 88 96 115 153 190 twice, 206 211 220 221 259 289 290.
Digestion. See Appetite.
Dim Sight, 14. See Sight dim.
Discussives, 3 5 10 11 14 46 60 63 88 102 115 144 147 149 172 200 206 257 twice, 267 274 twice, 290 300 329. See Swellings to discuss.
Diseases contagious, 7 twice, 58 128 149 189 191 192 265 288 308 309 326.
—epidemic, 7 122 308 309.
—malignant, 7 71 192 265 twice, 277 308 309. See Fevers malignant.
—pestilential, 7 191 192 265 277 288 308 309. See Fevers. Plague.
—from cold Causes in the Phlegmatic, 6 7 20 21 57 264 twice.
—in the Hot Bilious, and Sanguine, 8 11 46 303. See Bilious, &c.
—from drinking cold Liquors, when hot, 80 twice.
Dislocated or fractured Limbs to strengthen, 2.
Dribbling Urine by Drops, 8 14 113 121 160 184 230. See Urine.
Diuretics, 4 13 twice, 14 twice, 15 17 22 28 31 34 35 39 52 57 58 61 87 88 117 142 159 189 198 204 223 225 291 311 318 102 120 121 128 twice, 163 181 187 214 218 221 238 276 301 315. See Urine to provoke.
Danger of Diuretics too long continued, 14.
Dissolvers, 46 308.
Dogs and Cats fatal to them, 308.
Dropsy, 2 12 13 19 twice, 26 37 thrice, 38 42 thrice, 44 twice, 46 51 52 56 61 62 97 four times, 98 107 117 119 120 121 125 twice, 133 138 139 142 146 160 161 168 176 183 191 208 twice, 211 214 219 223 225 227 twice, 229 230 236 237 240 245 248 249 259 twice, 262 265 260 twice, 271 294 296 299 302 303 304 thrice, 307 thrice, 308 310 thrice, 317 327 thrice. See Diuretics. Obstructions to open.
Drunkenness to prevent, 4 26 164 173 231.
—to cause, 66 201.
Dry or rainy Summers to foresee, 288.
Dulness or Drowsiness, 7 121 236 267 269 308 314. See Lethargy.
[Page 322]Dysury, 34 46 58 94 100 178 twice, 1 [...]6. See Heat and Stoppage of Urine.

Ears pained, 9 18 23 twice, 130 174 199 twice, 225 242 250 265 274.
—inflamed, 160. See Inflammations.
—ulcerated, 2 114 154 164 twice, 217 225. See Ulcers.
Fleas, Worms, or Insects in them to kill, 16 114 121 145 200 269 308 twice.
—Noise in them. See Deafness.
Emmenagogics, 21. See Menses to provoke.
Emollients, or Softeners, 4 5 23 35 46 79 97 108 111 115 175 176 twice, 194 four times, 222 227 318 319.
Epilepsy. See Falling-Sickness.
Errhins, 235 thrice, 239 290.
Eruptions on the Skin, 54 92 twice, 222 303 twice. See Fevers eruptive. Scab. Itch.
Excoriations, or Erosions, 5 twice, 46 65 175 178 226 twice, 257 261 268 291.
Expectoration, or Spitting, to promote, 80 107 110 122 123 153 twice, 160 162 173 178 thrice, 187 189 191 twice, 211 212 221 227 226 239 252 259 260 267 274 276 277 296 twice, 313.
Expulsives, 133. See Cordials. Rash.
Eyes red or inflamed, 1 7 8 18 26 31 32 54 63 65 67 86 89 97 twice, 101 102 110 114 115 thrice, 132 twice, 134 138 141 144 twice, 149 158 166 190 192 194 196 198 207 230 243 246 251 255 262 263 twice, 277 292 301 303 307 317 twice.
—inflated, 20.
—swelled or bruised, 99.
—discoloured by Strokes or Falls, 160 thrice, 322 twice.
—when their Rheum excoriates the Skin of the Cheeks, 327 twice.
—Films, Spots, Webs, &c. to take off, 18 55 twice, 68 87 117 125 132 144 253 290 300 315 317 321 322.

Faintings, 8 22 32 67 71 twice, 171 176 302. See Cordials.
[Page 323]Falling-Sickness, or Epilepsy, 2 14 26 33 44 50 51 63 64 65 67 94 103 113 116 121 126 134 142 thrice, 143 149 159 160 168 twice, 171 174 twice, 177 twice, 179 202 204 twice, 207 208 four times, 211 twice, 230 twice, 233 thrice, 240 248 250 264 265 269 278 279 286 304 twice, 313 314 315 319.
Falls and H [...]ts, 1 10 16 31 twice, 58. See Bruises.
Febrifuges, 68 97 106 121 304. See Agues. Intermittents.
Feet swell'd and puff'd up, 97 225. See Cachexy.
Fellon to expel, 16 66 149 226 twice. See Cordials.
Fevers, 56 65 77 121 25 [...] 259 263 twice, 308 315.
—ardent 83 87 252 258 265 280 284.
—bilious and hypochondriac, 46 255 287.
—intermitting, 7 13 65. See Tertians, Quartans, &c.
—malignant, 32 39 43 67 89 102 122 144 156 192 220 255 259 265 291 304 327.
—pestilential, 43 twice, 52 67 287. See Plague.
—slow from Obstructions, 51 87 89 156 191
—eruptive, 71. See Small-pox. Measles.
—Feverish Heat and Thirst to abate, 27 83 175 288 four tim [...]s, 318. See Thirst.
—Drink, 8 thrice, 32 63 77 114 129 132 158 twice, 209 247 288 301 318.
Fish to boil firm, 8.
—to stupify, 294.
Fistula to cure, 48 268 94 280 281 291 323. See Ulcers.
—Lacrymal, 207 222 twice.
Fleas or Worms in the Ears to kill, 16. See Ears.
Flesh to boil tender, 90 208.
—fungous to waste, 125.
Flies to expel or kill, 3 16 113 155 180 274.
Fluor albus, or Whites, 10 50 65 66 68 69 73 94 121 twice, 129 155 167 172 175 179 198 twice, 199 205 217 224 twice, 237 255 263 twice, 264 twice, 269 281 284 286 301 309 321.
Fluxes, 4 25 30 33 34 35 46 60 65 twice, 69 73 77 81 83 84 90 91 twice, 92 112 121 128 136 137 139 140 157 158 165 166 175 177 180 184 192 193 twice, 210 224 thrice, 232 twice, 233 237 243 255 263 thrice, 268 282 283 284 twice, 285 twice, 286 292 309 twice, 321 323. See Astringents. Bloody Stools.
Foetus and Secundine to expel, 125. See Birth and After-Birth.
Fractures and Luxations, when reduced, to cure, 73 99 [Page 324] 112 135 192 twice, 205 217 281 twice, 306. See Bone [...] broken.
Freckles, Spots, Pimples, Wheals, &c., on the Face to cure▪ 4 thrice, 5 7 18 twice, 41 44 54 55 59 63 84 85 90 twice, 92 99 108 110 138 143 thrice, 153 175 176 183 twice, 231 254 273 277 279 284 286 thrice, 289 301 twice, 307 317 twice.
Friars Balsam, 69.

Gall overflowing, 200. See Bilious.
Gangrenes, 162 twice, 191 221 265 270 280 281 327. See Mortification.
Gnats to kill, or drive away, 104 142.
Gonorrhoea and Lues Venerea, or Clap and Pox, 2 5 42 66 136 147 157 175 243 255 283 twice, 293. See Venereal Disease.
Gout, 11 18 26 twice, 39 four times, 44 45 56 73 98 106 121 twice, 122 132 133 141 159 168 210 thrice, 211 212 229 240 250 254 260 265 294 303 308 310 313.
Green-Sickness, 21 26 96 twice, 121 twice, 146 155 159 187 211 264 304 314. See Menses to provoke.
Gripes, 4 5 7 14 21 26 29 46 twice, 58 61 63 68 71 82 89 110 thrice, 133 159 163 171 177 199 200 210 twice, 212 227 twice, 230 231 236 240 249 251 275 282 302 304 317. See Cholic. Wind to expel.
Gums and Teeth to fasten, 14 71 279.
—bleeding, 139. See Teeth loose.
Gunpowder to take out of the Skin, 8 255. See Burns.

Hair to make grow. See Baldness.
—to prevent its Growth, 117 210 2 [...]5.
—to turn it yellow, 39.
—to make it white, 56.
—to change it to black, 98 151.
—to make it fair, 209.
Hair to beautify it, 246.
Hands shaking, or Tremors, 65 202 264. See Pal [...]y.
Hardness to soften. See Emollients.
Head-ach, 4 7 20 25 26 thrice, 59 67 70 thrice, 79 82 88 89 103 twice, 114 twice, 121 thrice, 123 132 154 171 179 188 twice, 198 199 222 225 233 244 254 [Page 325] 259 265 269 290 291 308 311 314 315 twice, 317 thrice, 318. See Megrim. Vertigo. Palsy.
Head-ach, to cause, 25.
Heartburn, 127 46. See Absorbents.
Heat and Scalding of Urine, 4 5 63 82 94 136 175 222 255 twice, 256 303 318.
Hectic, 4 63 117 158 179 280 303. See Consumption.
Hellebore how prepared and used, 142 six times.
Haemorraghes, 41 50 twice, 69 121 123 128 129 130 132 166 167 168 263 282 285. See Bleeding.
Herpes to cure, 40 48 141. See Tetters.
Hiccough, 82 88 thrice, 102 187 199 204.
Hoarseness, 4 5 9 69 96 110 114 120 twice, 160 twice, 178 twice, 212 236 251 264 269 317 318. See Cough, &c.
Hogs fatal to them, 222.
Horses weary to make go, 16 206, twice.
—founder'd, 259.
—prick'd, 210.
—Staggers, 257.
Hot Diseases of the Breast, 55 158. See Plurisy, &c.
Humours adust, 32 117 249.
— to dissolve, 283.
Humours bilious to expel, 47 56 70 92 106 114 117 121 154 161 184 196 197 223 249 294 303 312 313 318.
—phlegmatic to expel 70 106 121 125 142 152 160 184 249 256 thrice, 294 290 313 326.
—melancholic, 117 125 143 196.
—watery, 37 38 39 44 five times, 56 79 92 97 four times, 98 99 110 111 125 161 196 197 227 twice, 256 294 297 303 318.
—sharp to blunt, 4 5 twice, 63 73 110 115 144 147 175 178 twice, 179.
Hypochondriac, 37 50 52 59 87 106 124 130 132 143 159 176 206 211 279 303 315. See Spleen. Melancholy.
Hysterics, 7 12 21 22 26 39 43 44 twice, 46 57 79 twice, 82 twice, 96 103 106 twice, 110 121 124 132 137 162 twice, 163 174 173 176 187 191 196 208 211 twice, 236 264 265 thrice, 274 289 twice, 291 299 308 314 315 twice, 317 327.

Jaundice, 2 7 11 13 14 17 25 twice, 26 twice, 31 32 37 42 twice, 46 50 55 56 twice, 62 63 65 twice, 71 79 [Page 326] 87 89 90 92 95 100 101 117 121 130 132 133 134 145 146 154 155 twice, 159 161 168 172 179 181 183 185 187 190 196 200 207 212 220 221 223 224 230 thrice, 236 238 239 248 249 266 267 281 287 290 291 twice, 299 301 twice, 317 twice, 293 296 307 twice, 315 318 327 four times.
Jaws inflamed, 108.
—swell'd, 224 231. See Quinsey.
Iliac Passion, 88 110 129 131 311. See Cholic.
Inciders, 21 43 89 91 92 96 104 117 183 199 201 227 238 209 249 259 268 302.
Incontinence of Urine, 2 229 281 twice. See Urine to cause, or keep.
Inflammations, 5 twice, 8 10 12 twice, 16 36 46 63 65 66 68 69 73 86 87 89 twice, 95 97 twice, 110 114 129 132 134 144 thrice, 147 149 158 twice, 167 175 thrice, 177 twice, 179 180 184 twice, 196 210 219 222 229 232 242 252 255 258 263 267 285 287 288 299 318 322 323 325.
Inflamed Breasts, 5. See Breasts.
—Lungs, 8 63 110 132. See Lungs inflamed.
Piles, 9. See Piles.
— Uterus, 5 110. See Uterus.
Insects to kill, 145.
Joints dry and hard, 4 99.
—pained and stiff, 60 65 85 96 110 115 133 twice, 142 152 164 279 twice, 308 twice, 260.
—weak and relaxed, 84 96 135 164 208 217 286.
Issues to cause run, 164 twice, 227.
Itch to cure, 18 63 90 twice, 117 121 142 14 [...] 155 196 239 277 287 291. See Scab.

Kernels, Knots, &c. about the Neck and Throat to discuss, 39 65 78 86 twice, 110 134 184 208 twice, 209 211 291 309.
Kibed Heels to cure, 14 147 219 225. See Chilblains.
Kidnies and Ureters, to cleanse, 5 thrice, 7 42 64 300 301 twice. See Stone. Urine to provoke.
—inflamed, 5 twice. See Inflammations.
—ulcerated, 268. See Ulcers.
—to ulcerate, 155.
—pained from Cold, 14 twice, 23.
King's Evil, 5 8 10 14 37 44 twice, 46 55 72 thrice, 86 107 108 four times, 116 twice, 118 121 124 130 twice, [Page 327] 135 twice, 148 177 180 184 211 219 222 227 237 twice, 239 254 257 264 276 twice, 289 306 307 308 316 320 322.

Labour in Childbearing, 71 103 107 131 134 155 171 206 267. See Birth and After-Birth.
—to make easy, 256.
Laxatives, 262 263 290 twice, 296. See Looseners.
Legs ulcerated to cure, 36 63 93 97 142 twice, 243 thrice, 270 twice, 291 311. See Ulcers.
Leprosy, 79 103 twice, 118 171 191 211 four times, 264 269 274 308, &c.
Leucophlegmatia, 38. See Cachexy. Dropsy.
Liver to cleanse from tough Humours, 14 15 18 79 102 127 199 300 303 326 327.
—its Obstructions to open, 2 4 6 7 13 17 19 twice, 20 199 211 226 238 253 271 300 303 317. See Jaundice. Obstructions.
—its Heat to cool, 63 137 287 288. See Inflammations.
—its Swellings to discuss, 79. See Swellings.
—to strengthen, 70 90.
Lochia to bring down. See Menses.
Looseners, or Laxatives, 5 59 60 86 91 [...]6 97 103 twice, 106 107 121 133 142 146 154 160 170 178 190 195 209 twice, 211 225 231 247 twice, 248 249 253 299 301 thrice, 308 313 318 four times. See Purgatives.
Loosenesses to cure or stop, 27 34 46 77 83 89 twice, 112 114 124 129 166 192 205 207 209 217 221 224 231 243 251 twice, 258 264 282 292 308 309 twice, 327. See Fluxes. Bloody Fluxes.
Longings of Breeding Women, 8 129.
Lungs stuff'd, 17 102 106 120 122 160 twice, 184 188 196 twice, 267 277 291 twice, 296 301 308 twice.
—inflamed, 8 114 twice, 132 179 41 63 twice, 110 117. See Inflammations.
—tubercled, or knotted, 132.
—ulcerated, 73 86 104 twice, 105 122 156 180 182 203 226 twice, 240 thrice, 263 268 291.
Lunacy, 248. See Madness.

Madness, 2 thrice, 22 50 142 twice, 143 175 twice, 239 311.
—to cause, 147.
[Page 328]Madness, Melancholy, 8 10 22 twice, 32 twice, 57 117 121 138 142 twice, 143 159 twice, 184 197 twice, 240 249 293 317 324 326.
Megrim, 51 103 106 114 225 231 254 twice, 265 290 267. See Head-ach.
Melilot why used after Blisters, 193.
Members or Limbs dislocated or fractured, 2 39 73 twice, 96 210 249 280 289 300. See Dislocations. Fractures.
Menses and Lochia: Womens monthly Terms, and Child▪ bed Purgations, to promote, 2 4 5 7 twice, 13 14 15 18 20 21 twice, 22 23 26 29 32 36 43 44 46 twice, 49 52 56 58 61 twice 62 66 70 twice, 77 96 100 102 twice, 106 four times, 113 118 119 120 121 twice, 122 123 124 132 135 142 twice, 143 145 twice, 146 154 155 160 163 164 thrice, 168 173 176 181 twice, 183 184 189 191 196 200 206 208 210 211 213 214 221 twice, 233 236 238 240 241 248 twice, 259 260 265 267 269 270 273 274 276 278 289 twice, 290 300 302 304 twice, 307 314 twice, 315 316 twice, 327. See Birth and After-Birth to expel.
Menses or Lochia to check or stop, 1 2 10 30 34 40 41 48 65 69 73 84 91 93 94 112 140 147 156 158 159 166 167 175 twice, 183 192 twice, 199 200 203 205 207 209 twice, 211 twice, 224 twice, 225 227 229 230 237 243 251 252 255 263 268 269 281 283 284 285 292 309 321. See Bleeding to stop.
Mercury lodged in the Body to expel, 96 102 221.
Milk in Womens Breasts to increase, 5 7 41 54 57 88 twice, 102 123 138 187 295 324.
—to diminish, or put it back, 147 230 244 250.
—its Curdling to prevent, 199.
—curdled to dissolve, 54 62 199.
Mollifiers, 46. See Emollients.
Morphew to cure, 85 120 153 307. See Scurf.
Mushrooms their Antidote, 102 120. See Antidote,
Mortification, 122. See Gangrene.
Mouth to cleanse, 160 289.
—its sores to heal, 28 34 63 97 153 177 224 25 [...] 281 287. See Ulcers of the Mouth and Privy Parts.

Neck a Crick in it, 187.
Nephritic Pains, 4 5 twice, 7 thrice, 14 46 twice, 51 59 88 102 110 120 162 twice, 163 169 191 225 238 240 246 265 304. See Cholic. Stone to expel.
[Page 329]Nervous Plants, or Nervines, 7 20 23 26 43 52 70 121 187 199 21 [...] 213 233 235 236 264 268 270 302 327 229. See Cephalics.
Nervous Diseases, 2 7 20 21 23 26 93 twice, 103 106 171 209. See the Diseases of the Head.
Nerves friendly to, 46 67 99 133 163 twice, 171 187 188 191 208 228 254 265 300 315 twice, 329.
Nettles stinging, 221 twice, 308. See Stinging.
Nipples chapp'd to heal, 5 114 148 217 256 302.
Night Pains, 102. See Pains to ease.
Nose to make bleed, 74 198▪
—its Ulcers to cure, 242.
—its Bleeding to stop. See Bleeding at the Nose.
—Blood to stop. Haemorrhages.
Nuts hurtful, 140.

Obstructions of the Liver, Mesentery, and Viscera, to open, 2 4 6 7 13 17 18 21 25 26 32 37 41 42 44 twice, 50 51 55 56 61 70 71 80 89 twice, 100 102 103 104 109 117 120 121 122 125 128 132 133 183 184 187 188 200 twice, 211 223 225 230 233 240 249 259 264 twice, 267 281 291 303 304 307 309 315 327. See Liver to cleanse. Jaundice. Cachexy.
—of the Spleen and Viscera, 42 44 twice, 56 70 89 100 102 103 109 122 125 133 188 206 249 284 291 303 315.
—of the Kidnies and Ureters, 42 89 100 102 103 109. See Stone and Gravel. Kidnies to cleanse.
—of the Womb, 41 44 70 188 264 291. See Menses and Lochia.
Ozaena, 164 twice.
Opium Antidote to it, 106. See Antidote.

Pain to ease, 5 46 twice, 73 97 110 four times, 114 115 twice, 147 twice, 175 176 twice, 193 194 209 twice, 210 220 222 226 234 251 four times, 252 254 257 265 twice, 267 twice, 275 300 twice, 307. See Anodines.
—of the Eyes, 103 267. See Eyes red and inflamed.
—of the Ears, 9 54 92 103 145 196 267. See Ears.
—of the Teeth, 103. See Tooth ach.
[Page 330]Pain of the Sides or Breast, 8 58 122 127 152 194 28 [...] twice, 313. See Stitch.
—of the Belly, 20 46 57 139 152 265 268 28 [...] twice. See Gripes. Cholic.
—of the Breast, 58 265 261 318. See Pleurisy. Stitch. Cough.
—of the Back, 318 324. See Back to strengthen.
—of the Womb, 103 121 194 265 267 278 300. See Uterus. Hysterics.
—flatulent, 103 194 265. See Cholic flatulent. Wind to expel.
—of the Legs and Arms, 73 76 160 208 251. See Night Pains. Scurvy.
—of the Kidnies and Bladder, 103 138 194 267 318 324. See Bladder pained, or excoriated.
—of the Gout▪ 11 122 195 299 308 212. See Gout▪
—of the Nerves and Joints, 121 208 300 304. See Joints. Nerves.
—arthritic, 97 twice, 279 308 317. See the last Article Joints. Gout.
Pain of the Liver and Spleen, 58 265 317. See Liver. Spleen. Jaundice. Obstructions.
—of Wounds, 300. See Wounds.
Palsy, 22 23 26 twice, 44 65 67 86 103 twice, 141 153 171 174 179 183 187 191 207 211 thrice, 254 twice, 261 264 twice, 269 thrice, 270 274 300 308 twice, 314 315. See Apoplexy, &c.
Passages to render smooth and slippery. See Emollients. Relaxers.
Palpitation, 8 22 67 137 177 206 263 267 302. See Cordials. &c.
Parotids, 5 107 202 269. See Kernels.
Pectorals, 21 39 44 102 103 110 117. See Cough. Pleurisy.
People mild to render fierce, 201.
Perspiration to promote, 199 220 225 327. See Diaphoretics.
Pestilential Diseases, 7 32 265 302 309 515. See Plague. Cont [...]gious Diseases.
Phlegm to thin and dissolve, 7 18 21 44 45 118 124 138 160 163 173 181 191 201 206 227 259 260 264 279 290. See Expectoration. Attenuants. Inciders.
—to thicken, 5 178 252. See Ca [...]arrh. Rheum, Anodynes.
—phlegmatic Persons good for them, 120.
[Page 331]Piles inflamed, 9 54 73 108 110 114 134 144 219 22 [...] 238 239 241 286 307 319.
—swell'd, 18 34 36 73 108 twice, 210 twice, 217 222 225 226 239 275 286.
—painful, 60 63 73 97 twice, 108 thrice, 114 12 [...] 134 157 21 [...] 224 241 249 256 286 275 307.
Piles to open, 107 173 222 226 229 290.
—bleeding, or ulcerated, 60 63 twice, 65 7 [...] 13 [...] 183 198 twice, 210 thrice, 221 237 239 twice, 286.
Phrenzy, 14 103 twice, 158 252 twice, 255 265. See Coolers.
Phymosis, 219.
Plague to prevent, 7 18 23 30 41 52 55 96 117 120 121 122 twice, 125 149 150 163 164 176 189 190 192 240 264 268 twice, 278. See Alexipharmacs, &c.
—to cure, 39 51 52 55 122 twice, 126 159 190 278 202 509 115 twice, 316 317. See Sudorifics.
Pleurisy, 5 twice, 19 39 44 46 twice, 103 110 thrice, 117 127 132 139 173 176 178 185 187 194 twice, 202 212 221 thrice, 225 twice, 251 252 twice, 260 318▪ See Pecto [...]ls. Cough. Inflammation. Expectoration.
Polypus, 18 249 173.
Poison, 53 157 221 78 94.
—to expel, 4 7 18 32 71 120 121 12 [...] twice, 128 142 twice, 149 150 154 162 163 193 212 220 230 265 289 197 309 twice, 312 316 317. See Antidote.
Privy Parts inflamed, 193. See Cods, &c.
To purge the Blood. See Blood to purify.
Purgatives, 25 90 142 146 164 209 223 twice, 231 286 294 298 299 thrice, 308 316 318. See Laxatives. Looseners.
Putrefaction to prevent, 12 66 71 93 122 162 248 264 279 twice, 284 287 289 299 304 308 325.

Quinsey, 18 65 71 81 twice, 93 97 158 twice, 160 164 thrice, 180 210 216 219 226 252 254 257 277 280 twice, 317 twice, 322 325 327. See Throat. Kernels. Inflammation. Quartans, 39 51 97 102 121 123 142 143 144 159 191 192 202 211 249 260 307 317 twice, 327 twice.
Quotidians, 18 97 twice, 123 1 [...]1 327 twice. See Agus. Intermitting.

[Page 332]

[...], 68 132. See Cordials.
Ratifee, 9.
Repercussives, or Repellents, 219. See Attenuants. Emollients and Astringents.
Relaxers, 46 97 176 194 222 227 307. See Emollients and Anodynes.
Rejuvenation, 22.
Resolvents, 15 97 102 108 110 173 194 four times, 198 227 270 312 153 307.
Rheumatism, 20 132 152 193 211 300 310. See Pains.
Rheums, or Defluxions on the Eyes, Nose, Mouth, Jaws, Throat, Breast or Lungs, 23 26 twice, 30 32 33 51 52 70 82 93 110 134 140 157 160 165 175 178 191 193 twice, 203 217 246 251 252 255 263 264 269 285 292 298 308 314 327 twice.
Rickets, 165 137. See Aperients. Vulnera—.
Ringworms, 48 50 55 90 108 117 120 153 158 179 227 265 277 287 308.
Rigour of chronic Fevers, 243, &c.
Ripeners, 5 110 thrice, 115. See Swellings to suppurate.
Ruptures, 1 18 twice, 30 65 69 73 80 84 86 95 96 99 105 114 122 135 thrice, 136 148 150 165 167 179 twice, 180 185 198 200 203 205 207 210 217 224 twice, 226 twice, 229 243 twice, 266 268 twice, 275 281 284 286 289 306 309.

Scabs, or Scabbiness, to cure, 23 48 50 53 55 63 65 89 twice, 96 108 117 twice, 121 132 142 thrice, 154 155 165 twice, 168 179 196 211 265 277 thrice, 287 291 twice, 301 308 thrice, 319. See Scurvy. Itch.
Scald-Head, 55. See Scab. Scurf, &c.
Scalding and Heat of Urine, 4 5. See its Heat and Scalding, Dysury, &c.
Scars of Wounds to take out, 286.
Schirru [...] ▪ 37 44 144 twice, 155 176.
Scurfs, Scabs, Dandriff, &c▪ 24 53 90 twice, 118 twice, 120 142 twice, 184 2 [...]7 261 273 277 294 304 309. See Scald-Head. Scabs. [...]etters, &c.
Scurvy, 2 118 twice, 36 37 51 55 56 71 twice, 90 93 109 119 121 158 176 185 203 211 twice, 225 238 [Page 333] 239 241 twice, 255 259 twice, 260 279 287 308 310 311 325. See Blood to purify. Scabs. Obstructions, &c.
Seed to increase, 4 7 14 62 twice, 78 261 311 twice. See Venery to excite.
Seed to decrease. See Venery to diminish or extinguish.
Seminal Weaknesses; nocturnal, involuntary, too frequent Emissions, 71 87 175 224 229 243 301. See Astringents. Back to strengthen.
Senses to strengthen, 22 264 267 269 304. See Brain to strengthen.
Sheep fatal to, 262.
—to cure of the Rot, 309.
Sciatica, 6 13 14 twice, 22 44 51 56 65 73 86 96 99 100 103 116 118 121 132 142 twice, 144 147 161 163 183 200 208 211 212 213 214 229 250 251 253 257 260 265 267 274 286 289 308 312 313. See Gout. Pains to ease. Pains arthritic.
Sight to sharpen, strengthen, or restore, 14 57 58 59 96 101 thrice, 102 twice, 121 142 250 261 264 265 twice, 303 313 315 twice, 317. See Brains to strengthen. Eyes. Films and Spots to take off.
Sight bad for, 88 264 274.
Sinews dry and shrinking, 46 277.
—numb and stiff, 14 22 twice, 39 46 110.
—strained, 63 85 205 286.
—contracted, 170.
—cut asunder 176. See Emollients. Astringents. Vulneraries.
Skin discoloured, 56 81 107 118 153 154 160 204 twice, 261 265 286 322.
—blue, black, or livid, 29 32 183 200 twice, 230 twice, 235 327. See Bruises. Blood coagulated.
Sleep to cause, 61 138 147 175 five times, 225 231 251 thrice, 252 255 263.
—to prevent, 52 236.
—disturbed, 102.
Small Pox and Measles to expel, 39 71 102 107 118 126 169 180 190 thrice, 220 221 267 311.
Smell lost, 123.
Sneezing to provoke, 47 50 66 116 118 124 142 162 164 174 188 196 207 211 227 235 261 294 308.
—to soften, 5 23 46. See Emollients.
Sores hot, 65 78 80 165 196.
—on the Head, 265.
[Page 334]Speech lost to recover, 125 171 179 188 211 233 235. &c.
Spirits to raise, 7 14 22 32 41 96 121 171 192 21 [...] 252 256 263 267 300 twice, 301 324 326. See Cordials. Hypo. Hysterics.
Spitting to promote, 21 10 [...]. See Expectoration. Errhines.
Spleen, 18 19 37 twice, 58 92 98 103 104 105 121 125 138 160 164 181 185 211 229 300 304 317 327. See Aperients. Obstructions to open.
—swell'd, 79 118 130 twice, 137 183 twice, 184.
—hard 200 260 261 290 291 293 317 325.
Stimulants, 2 18 19 20 21 23 56 89 96 102 137 118 145 146 154 122 160 181 185 191 198 200 211 212 220 238 249 259 260 265 274 289 296 298 314. See Attenuants.
Stinging of Bees and Wasps, 5 22 23 158.
Stinging of Serpents and Vipers, 23. See Bites.
Stitches in the Sides or Breast, 8 26 40 46 62 82 96 106 110 113 121 127 169 173 202 221 265 twice.
Stomachics, 2 7 four times, 21 25 twice, 26 41 46 51 57 58 97 102 120 121 132 155 160 162 twice, 163 171 181 188 191 twice, 199 thrice, 200 211 twice, 217 236 246 256 260 264 265 274 310 313 314 326 327. See Appetite.
Stomach pained, 14 20 21 46 70 122 132 136 156 twice, 191 twice, 199 twice, 200 265 327.
—raw, crude, and relaxed, 21 twice, 23 thrice, 102. See Stomachics. Astringents after Vomits.
—flatulent, 82. See Wind to expel.
—hot 137 154 219 223 255 287 2 [...]8. See Coolers.
—cold, 129 289. See all warm Stomachics.
—weak, 67 78 87 96 203 256 258 260 263 265 270 308 327, twice.
—cold, moist, and windy, 78 163 308 327.
Stone, Gravel, Sand, or Mucus to expel, 2 4 5 five times, 7 9 14 twice, 19 26 28 36 39 four times, 41 42 44 46 thrice, 48 59 61 twice, 62 65 70 71 88 89 twice, 92 96 100 102 104 106 110 112 113 118 119 127 128 130 131 134 139 141 twice, 146 148 154 156 twice, 159 twice, 162 163 twice, 164 thrice, 173 176 177 184 191 197 twice, 198 200 207 208 211 213 219 221 twice, 224 225 thrice, 229 230 twice, 231 thrice, 234 236 238 twice, 240 241 246 247 254 twice, 259 five times, 260 twice, 261 265 266 276 284 286 288 290 thrice, 292 twice, 300 four times, 301 303 [Page 335] 307 308 twice, 312 317 318 twice. See Urine to provoke.
Stoppage of Urine, and Strangury, 2 4 7 14 37 41 46 54 106 110 131 133 138 154 171 210 211 234 250 265 289 twice, 293 304 307. See Urine to provoke.
—after Blisters, 5 twice.
Sudorifics, or Sweat to cause, 7 twice, 19 30 39 43 46 50 51 twice, 52 67 twice, 97 thrice, 117 121 122 126 133 163 164 181 187 190 191 192 200 222 240 248 252 270 277 twice, 291 twice, 302 thrice, 304 315. See Alexipharmacs. Plague to cure.
Surfeits, 7 twice, 99 217. See Stomachics. Obstructions to open.
Swellings to discuss, or repel, 3 5 10 11 24 46 twice, 61 66 68 74 93 98 108 114 133 135 152 177 twice, 191 199 211 twice, 222 223 227 230 234 257 270 290 299 302 311 313 318 326 329. See Discussives.
—to suppurate, 5 7 10 46 63 85 88 107 twice, 110 thrice, 118 276 thrice, 177 twice, 189 202 216 twice, 225 227 287 318 115.
—inflammatory, 3 27 63 97 234 267.
—white 208 327.
—cancerous, 41. See Cancer.
—Gout, 89 97 267. See Gout.
—hot, red, and painful, 5 24 46.
—from Cold, 7 16 46 327.
—of the Womb to discuss, 79 154.
—of Womens Breasts, 155.
Sweating to stop, 263 twice.
Suffusion of the Eyes, 101 102 240.

Teeth to fasten, 65 187 twice, 241 256. See Gums and Teeth.
—to set on Edge, 255.
—rotten, 265. See Scurvy.
Tenesmus, 210. See Flux. Looseness.
Tertian Agues, 20 159 161 200 264 260 317 twice, 327 twice. See Agues.
Testicles inflated, 23.
—inflamed, 134 144 147 217. See Cods swelled.
Tetters, 24 44 48 50 53 55 90 108 127 120 143 154 155 158 179 191 196 208 222 227 265 277 287 291 304 307 308.
Thirst to quench, 25 59 67 77 twice, 83 132 145 158 [Page 336] 180 209 232 247 287 301 twice, 311. See Feverish Persons.
Thrush to cure, 65 177 102 247 281 315. See Ulcers in the Mouth and Throat.
Tongue parch'd, rough and dry, 9 158 231 256 twice.
—swell'd, 173.
Tooth-ach, 5 14 twice, 16 25 26 33 53 67 82 92 107 118 142 160 171 188 twice, 191 198 209 211 224 twice, 235 238 242 243 twice, 266 269 280 284 290 298 308 311 317.
Throat sore, 5 65 71 102 153 twice, 165 221 238 254 281 285. See Ulcers in the Throat.
—inflamed, 65.
Tremors, 102 171 168 twice, 264.
Tumours flatulent to discuss, 88.
—of the Yard, 198.
—cold, 277.
Tympany, 82 thrice, 173 181 210. See Dropsy.

U V W

Warmers, 6 7 20 21 23 29 66 265.
Warts to cure, 2 54 55 107 158 190 twice, 196 210 twice, 246 250 265 2 [...]4 313.
Watching from Rheum, 5 175 twice, 314. See Rheum. Catarrh. Sleep.
Weariness to relieve, 3 26 46 141 twice, 168 208 twice, 317.
Venereal Disease, 39 42 50 66 73 136 163 222 270 281 298 twice.
Venery to excite, 14 17 21 61 62 100 118 168 173 191 211 twice, 221 225 261 267 274 311.
—to diminish, 88 twice, 138 144 175 thrice, 199 255 263 265 twice, 317 327.
Venom, or Poison▪ to expel, 14 15 93 100 324. See Poison. Antido [...]e.
Vertigo, or Swimming of the Head, 44 51 57 61 67 71 82 94 103 142 twice, 143 169 171 twice, 174 177 179 199 202 233 236 254 264 273 291 304 314 315.
Wens their Growth to check, 122 208.
Whitlow to cure, 44 149 226 twi [...]e, 320.
Wind to expel, 6 7 21 23 29 46 twice, 57 78 82 102 103 115 138 160 163 twice, 181 188 191 199 200 220 230 265 twice, 274 289 304 315.
Wines, or Ale, to cure, or give a fine Flavour to them, 20 41 192 237 180 224. See Ale.
[Page 337]Witchcraft to prevent or cure, 149 twice, 159 282.
Ulcers to heal, in general, 1 2 9 10 15 16 18 26 31 39 41 44 50 51 53 [...] 63 65 69 73 80 81 89 93 103 twice, 104 [...] 114 116 twice, 117 121 twice, 122 [...] 133 135 twice, 136 137 138 145 148 [...] 157 twice, 162 twice, 163 164 166 176 [...] 181 200 204 twice, 212 213 214 217 [...] 222 225 226 239 243 253 257 265 [...] 270 277 twice, 280 281 twice, 284 289 291 twice, 292 twice, 294 297 301 302 twice, 304 twice, 305 306 308 four times, 307 309 twice, 312 315 322 323 325. See Vulneraries.
—of the Mouth, Throat, and privy Parts, 34 84 86 93 128 132 133 148 180 192 209 thrice, 242 268 twice, 280 twice, 289 300 301 305 311.
—of the Bowels, 18. See Bowels.
—of the Kidnies or Bladder, 156 twice, 291. See Bladder and Kidnies.
—of the Womb and Yard, 158 226 291.
—not to spread, 41 78 110 118 132 144 154 169 204 257.
—of the Ear, 2. See Ears.
Womb to cleanse, 4 5 18 22 23 29 41 44 50 160 196 269 304 314 315 324. See Menses and Lochia.
—fallen down, 217 219 224.
—Hardness to soften, 64 98 196 265 329. See Emollients.
—inflamed, 5 177. See Inflammations.
—and Kidnies or Sides inflated, 194 200. See Wind to expel.
Vomiting, or Spitting of Blood, 1 2 69 177 180 192 twice. See Blood-Spitting.
—Vomiting to cause, 11 12 13 44 46 51 85 116 134 twice, 142 146 229 254 259 260 286 295 296 308 316.
—Belching and Loathing to cure, 8 19 21 27 30 70 77 88 83 89 121 136 165 193 198 169 200 205 207 225 258 286 327. See Stomachics.
Worms to expel, 67 108 255 265 312 313.
—to kill and expel out of the Body, 26 30 39 43 52 56 70 78 96 104 106 112 120 121 122 twice, 126 134 145 146 154 155 159 160 161 163 172 198 199 200 202 206 209 211 221 225 229 231 260 261 265 270 273 289 304 twice.
—to bring out of their Holes in the Earth, 155 316.
—or Flies on Beasts Sores to kill, 12 16 299 308.
[Page 338]Wormwood not to affect the Eyes, 327.
Wounds to cure, 1 2 16 26 31 36 41 46 48 51 55 56 64 64 69 70 73 77 80 81 84 86 89 99 104 105 108 112 118 122 twice, 128 130 132 133 135 137 145 146 148 149 150 151 156 157 twice, 159 160 161 163 165 166 167 177 179 180 181 191 198 203 [...]04 205 207 221 twice, 224 226 twice, 232 234 237 241 243 248 277 270 271 272 275 280 281 283 284 286 291 twice, 295 297 306 308 312 315 317 319 322 323 325 326 328.
Urine bloody, 2 14 73. See bloody Urine.
Urine to provoke, 6 7 15 18 21 23 28 29 31 43 46 twice, 48 50 57 58 61 62 64 68 78 87 89 94 96 100 102 103 119 120 121 123 132 135 154 160 162 164 168 171 177 181 183 185 188 189 191 194 198 200 206 211 213 217 221 224 225 229 230 238 248 253 256 259 267 269 270 twice, 274 275 281 289 twice, 291 296 302 307 314 327 318. See Stone.
—involuntary to cure, 30 145 156 189 198 243 309. See Incontinence of Urine.
—greasy at Top, 208.
—to make by Drops, 113 121 160 184 192. See Dribbling.
Uterines, 7 13 22 43 52 58 70 121 154 155 175 183 187 199 201 206 208 236 302 313 314. See Womb.
Uterine Fluxes, 180 224. See Menses and Lochia, to stop.
Vulneraries, 1 2 5 7 9 31 39 56 63 65 67 69 73 85 86 89 104 113 122 128 132 134 14 [...] 148 159 twice, 166 167 168 179 182 183 192 195 200 205 207 221 226 268 270 271 272 280 28 [...] 283 286 291 297 304 306 308 309 312 317 318.
Uvula relaxed to cure, 83 84 93 97 137 165 211 221 242 265 278 305 327.

[Page 339]

AN INDEX of the NOTES: Wherein the Number of Plants, and not Pages, is referred to.

: No
STONE and Gravel: 5
Dropsy: 19
Catarrhs: 20
Head-ach: 26
Excess of the Terms: 41
—of the Whites: 41
Pains of the Womb: 41
—Flatulency of it: 41
—its Haemorrhages: 41
—its Inflammations: 41
—its Relaxation: 41
its Suffocation: 41
Cholic: 46
After-Pains: 46
Blood to stop: 48
Spitting of Blood: 48
Vomiting of Blood: 48
Bloody Urine: 48
Lochia excessive: 48
Vertigo: 71
Jaundice: 87
Obstructions: 98
Tumours: 98
Schirruses of the Spleen: 98
Eyes their Diseases: 101
Worms: 104
Menses obstructed: 106
Lochia: 106
After-Birth to bring down: 106
Breasts hard to soften: 106
—pained to ease: 106
—inflamed: 106
—cancerated: 106
—loose and flabby: 106
Uvula relaxed: 106
Hard Labour: 106
Milk to increase: 106
—to decrease: 106
Piles pained: 108
Piles swelled: 108
—inflamed: 108
—dried, or bleeding too much: 108
King's Evil: 116
Tooth-ach: 120
Teeth eaten away: 120
—to bring out: 120
—to fasten: 120
—Worms to kill: 120
—set on Edge: 120
Consumptions: 132
Venery to excite: 173
Ischias, or Sciatica: 208
Suppression of U [...]ine: 208
Ulcers: [...]23
Wounds: 220
Ears their Pain and Noise: 225
Stomach its Diseases: 236
For a Looseness: 246
Bloody Flux: 246
Tenesmus: 246
Ruptures: 266
Pleurisy: 277
Scurvy: 277
Scorbutic Pains: 277
—Spots, &c.: 277
Tetters: 277
Itch: 277
Fevers continual: 288
—intermitting: 288
—Quartan: 288
—Tertian: 288
Hiccough: 288
Thirst: 288
Watchings: 288
Vomitings: 288
Warts: 294
Convulsions: 315
Epilepsy.: 315

[Page]

APPENDIX.

HAVING said enough in the Preface of my Medicina Britannica to recommend the Use of Simples, or British Remedies, for the Benefit of the Poor especially, I shall here give some general and necessary Directions; first, for the gathering, preserving, drying, and keeping of Simples; then for the Preparations, Uses and Doses of the several Forms of private or Family Medicines; a Thing which has hitherto been omitted, or neglected in Essays of this Kind, and thereby, in a great Measure, either frustrated the whole Design, or by ignorant and injudicious Management render'd it abortive; but that Defect being here supplied, it may be hoped will much contribute to make this Work of far more extensive Use and Benefit.

Of the gathering, drying and preserving of Plants.

Without any Regard to Astrological Whims of Herbs being under certain Planets, or to be taken up at fixed Ages of the Moon; we are to gather them when in their full Vigour and Perfection in Smell, Colour, Taste and Growth, and their Vessels full of mild well concocted Juice, some when they begin to flower, others when in full Flower, as Fumitory, Lesser Centaury, Penny-royal, [Page 2] Hyssop, Thyme, wild Thyme, Majoram, Origanum, Germander, Ground Pine, Calamint, &c. their Vessels not being yet sticky or woody. They must be cut down in a Sun-shiny or dry Day, when they are free from Moisture or Dew; this must happen at several Times and Seasons, according to the Growth of different Plants. All Herbs that afford little or nothing in Distillation, from the Grossness, Viscidity, or firm Attachment of their Earth and Salts, or whose Parts are separated with Difficulty, as Astringents, Bitters, Emollients, &c. may be dried in the Sun, but such as consist of thin, easily separable, volatile Parts, as the aromatic, cephalic and uterine, and [...]doriferous Flowers, which readily send their Virtues over the Helm, must be dried in the Shade, spread out on a dry boarded Floor, and several times turned over; or if they have dry, sticky Stalks, tied up with Packthread in small Handfuls, and hung up. When dried, both Herbs and Flowers (woody Stalks excepted) should be put clean up in Paper Bags, and laid up in Drawers or Chests in a dry Place, till used: If Plants are gathered too young, they contain little else beside a watery, acid Juice, having attained neither Maturity of Growth, Principles, nor Virtue; if too old, most of their Principles are either descended to the Root, or exhaled, they becoming dry, woody, and fibrous. But some will not dry at all, as Aquatics, Antiscorbutics and succulent Plants; these are only gathered for present Use, as Water-cresses, Brooklime, Scurvy-grass, Housleek, Orpine, &c. for they will either continue growing till their Juices are wholly exhausted, as Orpine, or they will run into Putrefaction, or Fermentation.—Roots should not be taken up after they have put out their Sprouts, [Page 3] or Stem, till that and [...]ne Leaves begin to wither and dry, for during that time the Root is sapless, tough and pithy: But when they are full of Sap, and of proper Age, they should be taken up, cleared, sliced, put on Thread, and hung up to dry. The Roots of perennial Plants should be taken up in the Spring before they bud forth, and Annuals in the latter End of Harvest, when their Stalk and Leaves are fallen; Roots at these two Seasons, are full of Juice, and if of proper Age, their Principles and Virtues are come to Maturity, but if Annuals stand longer, they are apt to be killed with the Frost, or rot in the Earth. Some Roots indeed may be taken up at any time, Winter excepted, as of Sorrel, Althaea, Dragons, Aserum, Sowbread, Bugloss, &c. Bulbous, succulant Roots, will keep but one Season, and so should be gathered every Year, as of Onions, Lillies, &c. aromatic and odoriferous Roots also lose by long keeping: Inodorous, gummy, resinous, firm, ponderous Roots, will keep good some Years. In taking up Roots in the Spring, Slips should be cut off from their Tops, and put down in the Earth to grow again; by not attending to this easy, plain and necessary Caution, both Roots and Herbs are often extirpated and lost in many Places. Most Flowers, but especially thin-leaved and odoriferous, must be carefully dried in a dry Shade, and when dried, put into Paper Bags, laid up in Drawers or a Chest. Seeds should be gathered or shaken when they are full ripe, and begin to dry before they shed or shake, put up in Paper Bags, and hung up in a cool dry Place, that they neither sprout nor turn rancid, and many of them will keep their Virtues eight or ten Years. Fruits should be got before they are quite ripe; such as have a very soft Pulp should [Page 4] be dried in the Sun or Oven to keep, as Cherries, Plumbs, Grapes, &c.

Of the Preparation and Use of Domestic Medicines.

The first and easiest domestic medicinal Preparation of Herbs is in Broths, either without Flesh, as in Fevers or Inflammations, which will not allow it, or with Flesh, as in chronic Disorders without a Fever. In Diseases of the Breast very proper Assistance may be given by Broths prepared with soft, lubricating, aperient, pectoral Herbs. In flatulent Cases, Wind Expellers may be added to them. In Dropsies, Diuretics may be put in; in case of Obstructions, Deobstruents may be used; in nervous Distempers, or Diseases of the Kind, Cephalics may be used; in habitual Costiveness, Laxatives join'd are proper; in a bloody Flux, or Looseness, Astringents should be added; in a great Weakness, Restoratives come in good Play; in an alcaline State of the Blood, Acids are greatly beneficial, or in bilious Cholics, or rather Redundance of Bile; in windy Cholics, Carminatives and Cracers; in too great a Heat of the Blood, Coolers: Thus we see the profitable Use of proper Broths is very extensive, and has this double Advantage, that Food and Medicine are both carried into the Blood together, and commix with it over the whole Habit, and may be persisted in longest with the least Offence, and that Medicine thus conveyed into the Body is most agreeable, familiar, easy, and least nauseous; but then it is necessary not only that Herbs proper for the Distemper be pitched on, but that they be rightly prepared, for if they are such as afford [Page 5] their Virtues by Distillation, they lose all their Flavour and Virtue by [...], and only leave their earthy, insipid and [...] [...]rateful Parts behind, as Baum, Costmary, Mau [...]lin, sweet Chervilor, Cecil, &c. Such should be cut small, and put into the Soup or Broth ready prepared, keep all hot, without boiling, in a close covered Vessel, so as they may infuse or soften, then dish them up, and eat them; but such Plants, as communicate nothing by Distillation, may be boiled freely, and make the Broth medicinal, tho' not savoury, but always avoid such as are too bitter, ungrateful, or nauseous to the Stomach, especially those in large Quantity, lest the Sick naus [...]ate what is necessary to be continued for some time. If the Herbs are green, the Broth must be made daily, or they will be sour, which intirely changes their Nature, except for cooler or Acids. The Quantity of the Herb used must be according to that of the Broth made, the Strength and Design of the Plant, the Case, Strength, Taste and Stomach of the Sick. For a Quarter of a Handful of some Herbs is as much as three or four Handfuls of others; ex. gr. All Pectorals, Coolers and Restoratives, require a larger Quantity, than Cephalics, or nervous Medicines, as from one to two or three Handfuls of Maidenhair, Liver-wort, Sorrel, Ground Ivy, Chick-weed, to two Quarts of Broth. Whereas half a Handful of the odorous Aramatics will suffice, or from two Ounces to a Quarter of an Ounce of Roots; or from a Dram to two Drams of Seeds.

The next easily parable and familiar Form is Juices; these are prepared either by gathering a H [...]ndful or more of the green Plant in its Season and Growth, early in the Morning, cleaning, cutting, pounding it in a Mortar, and straining out [Page 6] its crude Juice, and giving it immediately with a little Piece of Sugar, dissolved in it, from one to four or five Spoonfuls, once or twice a Day; and every Dose must be fresh made, as Juice of Nettles, Plantain, Millefoil, Shepherds Purse, Horse Tail, &c. in involuntary Losses of Blood, Ruptures, &c. Where the Stomach is weak, and cannot bear such thick crude Juices, another Way is, gather and cleanse any Quantity of well grown Herbs as before, put them into a glazed earthen high Pot, cover and paste them close, put them into an Oven, not too hot, let them stand till it is cold, take out the Pot, pour off the Liquor through a Hair Sieve, sweeten it with Sugar, Dose from one to three, four or five Spoonfuls, once, twice or thrice a Day, at the physical Hours, which are Morning early, three or four Hours after Dinner, and going to Bed; thus may Juice of Ground Ivy, or other green succulant Plants, or of tuberous Roots, as of Turneps, be prepared. A third Way is, to pound and express the Juice of any green Herb as before, let it either stand a few Hours till it settle, then pour off the clear, and give as before, or boil and clarify the expressed Juice, let it settle, pour off the clear, sweeten and use; but both the last Ways are far short of the first, for much of the best Part of the Plant is lost by the Sedepurations and Clarifications; therefore the former two are best, especially the first, if the Stomach will easily bear it.

Infusions are the next common and easy Form; the use of Tea has made the Preparation of these so well known, that every Housewife has the Art of drawing them; odoriferous, sapid, aromatic, cephalic, uterine, &c. Plants, which cannot bear Boiling without the Loss of some of their valuable Parts; or whose boiling renders them too [Page 7] ropy, slimy, thick, muddy, or otherwise ungrateful or nauseous, are fittest for this Form, dried Herbs are best here. Put the cut Herb, or sliced or bruised Roots or Seeds, into a Tea-pot, with its Spout stopped or corked; or other like close Vessel▪ pour on them a sufficient Quantity of Water, just ready to boil, cover it close up, and set it at some Distance from the Fire, from half an Hour to two, three, four Hours, or all Night, according to the Density, Solidity, Oleaginousness, or Resinousness of the Subject, or as the Herb or Root is green or dry, has volatile or fixed Parts; when it has stood a due time, pour out some of it into a Tea or other Cup, sweeten it, if proper, and give of it to drink, as often as is needful, as in Fevers every Hour or two; in Coughs, Catarrhs, and Pleurisies, once in two or three Hours; in chronic Cases, two or three Dishes, once or twice a Day. Such Plants, as will bear Decoction, without the above Inconveniencies, a Decoction of them is better, especially of the Woods, except Sassafras, which is lost by boiling; dry oleaginous, balsamic, saponaceous, resinous Roots, will give out their Virtues much better, when rubbed in a Mortar with a little Salt of Tartar, or if the Salt is put into the Water; but this must not be done, when cooling, correcting Bile, alcaline Salts, or Acrimony in the Blood, is intended; for Plants proper in these Cases want it not, and it either retards or frustrates these Designs; nor will mucilaginous Plants bear this Addition, or stand so long in Infusion, for they become nauseously ropy and slippery. Noviscous and austere, astringent, saponaceous, restorative Subjects, are properly suited for this Preparation.

[Page 8]The next familiar domestic Form is Diet Drinks, and sure nothing was ever more injudiciously managed than these, and simple distilled Waters, have been. This Article includes all medicated Wines, Meads, Ales and Wheys, but the last two are chiefly used in the Spring, and next to Broths is certainly the most agreeable Way of conveying Medicines into the Body, and all the animal Juices, in chronic Diseases (for they have no Place in Acutes) as they are to be continued some considerable time. The Quantity of Herbs put in, is ordinarily four Handfuls to a Gallon of Ale or Whey, Seeds from half an Ounce to an Ounce, Roots from half an Ounce to two Ounces if dry, but of green double the Quantity. The Ale, with the Ingredients, should be wrought in a Vessel that admits only Air enough to carry on the Fermentation, where odorous, or volatile Ingredients, are in the Composition; nor should the Liquor stand longer on them than three, four or five Days, after the Fermentation, but be bottled off, and well corked. The time of drinking them, if purgative, is chiefly the Morning; if laxative, Morning and Afternoon, if only laxative, at all the three medicinal Hours. The common Dose, when made with Wine, is from one Ounce to four, according to the Age, Strength, and Constitution of the Patient, and Intention of the Medicine, if made in Ale or Whey, Dose from two to eight Ounces. If Diet Drinks, made with Ale or Whey, are rightly prepared, there are often some Ingredients fit for boiling, others for Infusion, if the latter are boil'd, they are lost, and only leave their Flegm or earthy Parts in the Liquor; if the former are infused, their Body is not opened, nor the Cohesion of their Parts loosened and dissolved [Page 9] to mix with the Liquor; [...] latter are all Things, fit to bear boiling, as Woods, dried, heavy, solid, inodorous Roots or Herbs, Astringents, Bitters, Stiptics, some Emollients, austere earthy Ingredients, Cream of Tartar, &c. Of the former kind are Aromatics, such as have volatile Parts, or pungent light, readily separable Salts, as Antiscorbutics, the Action of Fermentation is sufficient to loosen, open, and draw out their Parts, which would be lost by Decoction; Fermentation is sufficient for green Herbs; but such Herbs, as will bear drying, are best dried, their Infusion is more agreeable, both to Sight and Taste, and keeps longer, but some cannot be dried as Antiscorbutics and succulant Plants. Infused Ingredients should be cut, Roots bruised and sliced, Seeds and Berries, a little pounded, and all put loosely in a Bag, and hung in the Liquor during Fermentation, the Bag should be taken out several times, squeezed into the Liquor, and put in again. Acid Juices, or Herbs, as of Citrons, Lemons, Oranges, or Limes, Sorrel, Liver-wort, &c. should never be boiled at all. If Jalup Root is put in, it should be grossly powdered, rubbed in a Mortar with Salt of Tartar, and boiled; Senna Leaf, with a little Salt of Tartar, may be infused, to prevent griping. If Agaric, Methoacan, or such others as are unfriendly to the Stomach are added, with them should be put in not only Seeds, but some Cinnamon, Quince, or a little Ginger, Diet Drinks, Infusions, or Decoctions, are often crouded, either with too many Ingredients, Articles of different Nature, and Intentions, or too great a Quantity of one Thing; but I would here observe that a Liquor may easily be over-loaded with any one Article, for all Liquors are porous Bodies, [Page 10] whose Pores or Interstices may be filled with other Matter of any one Figure, till it can contain no more of that, and the rest is lost; but will still receive and contain new Particles of a different Figure from another Subject, and so from a third and fourth, as we see Water may have its Pores so filled and surcharged with Sea Salt, that they can sustain no more, yet will dissolve fresh Sugar readily, till its Interstices are full of Matter of that Figure; yet it will dissolve Nitre, then Allum, &c. so that after the Pores were filled, the Remainder is lost. But if too little of any one Salt is dissolved in Water, short of the Intention, it is too weak, and either will not answer the Design, or do it too slowly; so Diet Drinks, or other Preparations, may be under done, or too weak. This also shews us, that a few Articles, judiciously calculated to the Purpose, are better than one, for they make the Liquor more powerful and medicinal; but an impertinent Jumble or Farraga is always to be avoided, as it shews want of Judgment in the Orderer, may have contrary Effects, and may disappoint the Design.

Another Form is Decoction; this is of one or more Herbs, Roots, Seeds or Flowers, which by boiling communicate their Strength and Virtue to Water. In this, both the Order of the Ingredients, Liquor used, and Degree of Heat, may be varied, as the Ingredients give out their Virtues more slowly and difficultly, or easily and quickly; the former require longer boiling, the latter less, or should be put in when the others are near boiling. Dried Herbs are fitter for this Use than green. All Plants are not fit for it, viz. Such whose Virtues consist in an easy, separable Salt, or essential Oil, or abound in volatile Parts, or resinous, [Page 11] or sulphureous Substances, or are of a very mucilaginous, or viscous Nature; the Virtues of the first Sort are lost in the Preparation; the second kind will not communicate their Virtue to Water, for it cannot open their Body, loosen, separate, nor sustain their Parts; and the last, if much boiled, spoil, thicken and muddy, the Decoction; tender, odoriferous Flowers, are also improper, they, and such as belong to the first Class, are fit only for Infusion, or Distillation, in both which they readily communicate their Virtue to the Water; the second Sort should be infused some time in hot or boiling Water in a warm Place, with some alcaline Salts, which may soften and open their Substances, prepare and loosen their Parts, and expedite their Separation and Communication to the Water; and after this Infusion, they must have both a stronger and longer Decoction, as Woods, Barks, dry, hard and inodorous Roots, earthy Substances, &c. The third Class, if much boiled, make the Liquor slimy and ropy, as Seeds of Line, Fleabane, the cold Seeds, Mash-mallow, Com [...]ry, or Do [...]k Roots, except they are either used in such a small Quantity as answers very little Purpose, or be put in near the latter End, or they will turn the whole to a mere thick jelly. Purgatives should be infused in boiling Water with Carminatives, or rather boiled slightly with a little Salt of Tartar, otherwise their austere, acid Salts, being drawn out by long boiling, causes grievous Gripes, and sometimes Discharges of Blood; which often happens from a Decoction of Colicinth drunk. The Liquor used in Decoction is mostly Water, or clarified Whey or Wine, which is almost lost by boiling. The Quantity of Liquor and Ingredients used i [...] according to the Quantity designed to [Page 12] be made; gr [...]en Ingredients are not so proper as dried that will keep good, for their Decoction is neither so fine, nor so pleasant, nor keeps so well, but should be made in less Quantity, and oftener. Herbs, whether green or dried, must be cleaned and cut; Roots and Seeds must be grossly bruised, put into the Water, and boiled away sometimes to three Fourths, other Times to two Thirds, or a Half, as the Ingredients let out their Virtues more readily, or slowly, then take them from the Fire, when cold, strain, and if for drinking▪ sweeten it a little, if needful, as two or three Ounces or Sugar to a Quart of Liquor, or two or three Ounces of distilled compound W [...]rs, or Brandy, or half a pint of Wine, to preserve them. The Quantity of Ingredients to the Liquor must be adjusted to the Number of Articles put in, the Nature of the Plants, and Uses of the Liquor; if only one or two Articles are used, a Handful, or a Handful and a Half, is sufficient for each Quart of Water; or from one to three Ounces of dried Herbs; from two Drams, to an Ounce or two of dried Roots, from a Dram to two of Seeds or Flowers: The Dose is from one to six or eight Ounces; the Time of drinking them is the same as in Diet Drinks, o [...] Infusions. If prepared with Wine, and dry Herbs, they will keep good some Weeks or Months, if with Water, and no Sugar, Waters or Brandy put [...]o them, not above one, two or three Days; Syrups are improper, for they excite Fermentation, disturb and sharpen the Bile. All Herbs should be gathered yearly, especially odorous and aromatic; Antiscorbutics must always be got fresh, for they will not keep, as Water-cr [...]sses, Brooklime, Scurvey-grass, &c. Such as the following bear Decoction well, Wormwood, Cinquefoil, Cranes-bill, Dandelion, Dwarf [Page 13] Elder and Elder, Endive, Fern, Fumitory, Tormentil, Wood Sorrel, Speed-well, Succory, Ground Ivy, St. John and St. James's Worts, Knot-grass, Nettles, Plantain, Roses, Quinces, Camomile, Mallows, Marshmallows, Lesser Centaury, Horehound, Maidenhair, Harts-tongue, Poppies, &c.

Distillation is another Operation belonging to the Preparation of domestic Remedies; and here we are to consider what Things are fit and proper for it, that we spend not Time and Labour in vain, and our Expectation, and that of the Sick, be not disappointed. Distillation and Decoction are direct Opposites, for, in general, whatever will not bear the former, without Loss of its Parts and Virtues, is the proper Subject of the latter, and what will afford nothing significant, either for Food or Physic by the latter, is to be used the former Way. The cooling, stiptic, emollient, astringent, consolidating, nutrimental, healing Plants, afford not their Powers and Virtues by Distillation, but must be used in Infusion, Decoction, Extract, or Substance. Sweet, watery, [...]lat, acid, bitter, rough tasted Plants, [...]mit nothing worth Labour, as Juices of Elder Berries, Grapes before Fermentation, Juices of Citrons, Lemons, Oranges, Strawberries, Plumbs, Cherries, Currans, Barberries; Herbs, Succory, Sorrels, Purslain, Beets, Colewort, Lettice, Ladies Mantle, Ladies Bed-straw, Plantain, &c. Wheat, Oats, Barley, Rice, Pease, Millet, &c.

Some few inodorous Things indeed, which have no aromatic Smell, do yet communicate considerable and unexpected Virtues to their Water, as Corn Poppies, Arsmart, to which add Frogs Spawn, tho' no Plant.

[Page 14]The Virtues of some Plants are partly volatile, partly fixt, as lesser Centaury, Germander, Camomile, Blessed Thistle, Ground Pine, Mugwort, Scordium, Sage, Wormwood, &c. To obtain their medicinal Parts, they may be first digested, then distilled; when the Water is come off, the Fire would be stopped, and the Ingredients let stand in the Still till they are cold, then take all out, strain off the Liquor, boil it up to the Consistence of thin Honey, and mix with the Water, so have you the Virtues of the whole Plant, except its Earth, and perhaps a little fixt Salt.

When heavy, solid, tough, resinous, or gummy resinous Wood-barks or Roots, are to be distilled, they must first be cut or sliced very thin, or grosly bruised, and put in a very close Vessel, pour boiling Water, with a considerable Quantity of Sea Salt upon them, to loosen and open the compacted Body of the Ingredients, and prevent their Putrefaction, stir all well together, shut the Vessel up close, let it stand three, four or five Weeks, in a warm Digestion, then distil the Water off.

The aromatic, strong smelling, resinous, oleaginous, balsamic, gummy Plants, which retain their natural Fragrance, may be dried a little in the Shade; then cut them grossly, and put them in the Still, and keep them in a warm Digestion seventy Hours, then draw off their Waters, as Baum, Hyssop, Pennyroyal, Mints, Rosemary, Marjoram, Origanum, Sage, Rue, &c.

Thin tender Herbs or Flowers, which spend their Virtues by sending out their Smell to Distance, should be gathered early in the Morning, while their Dew is upon▪ them, and their Vessels well fed in the cool of the Night, and full, put them immediately into the Still, and distil presently [Page 15] without Digestion, for either that, or their lying in the Air, hurts and weakens them, as Flower of Roses, Jessamin, Borage, Bugloss, Lilly of the Valley, white Lillies, &c. These Flowers should be got before they are quite opened, or begin to shed. The different Colour of distilled Waters is from their Oil, for Camomile Water is blue, and Wormwood green. Saponaceous Plants communicate not their Virtues by Distillation, for these, consisting in an intimate Union of their Oil and Salts, rise not; some Plants are as good for Decoction after Distillation as before; red Roses retain their Astringency after; Wormwood, its Bitterness, &c. Having thus proved the Way, and shewn what Plants are proper Subjects of Distillation, and the several Ways they are to be managed to the best Advantage; come we next to the Operation itself, which is of three Kinds, either by simple Distillation, Cohobation, or Fermentation; for the last we are obliged to Daniel Ludovicus, and all of them have been much improved by the late learned and great Boerhaave.

Let the Herbs designed for Distillation be gathered in the Morning, while the Dew is yet upon them, and their Vessels turgid with Juice, before their volatile Parts are lessened and dissipated by the Day, sure Light or Heat; the Herbs being at their full Growth before the Flowers appear, or Seeds come on; grossly cut the Herbs, and fill the Still two Thirds full of them, then pour as much distilled or rain Water upon them, as just covers them, or fills up the Still to the same Height, put a Piece of fine, thin clean Linnen, over the End of the Still Head Pipe, let the Still Head fit close, be put on exactly, and lute the Nose of the Still to the Worm, with a stiff Paste [Page 16] of quick Lime, and the white of an Egg, or Linseed Meal and Water, the Room being first well cleaned by running boiling Water through it, fit a Receiver close to the lower End of the Worm, that no Vapour fly off, and during the Operation, keep the Worm Tub constantly supplied with cold Water. Things being thus ordered, let all stand in a warm Infusion for twenty-four Hours, then gradually raise the Heat till the Water boil, which is known from its hissing Noise, the Heat of the upper End of the Worm, the smoaking of the Water in the Worm Tub, and the dropping of the Worm till it come to a small, thread-like Stream; then raise the Heat no higher, for a lower Degree will not raise the necessary and expected Virtue of the Plant; by a greater Heat the Plant is suddenly raised into the Still Head, and either fouls the Worm, or distilled Liquor, or plugs up the Head, and throws the Herbs and Liquor about; in which Case, if the distilling Ingredients are oily, tenacious, gummy, or resinous, as the Fire required to distil these must be greater, the Explosion will be stronger, and not only the Subject will be lost, but the Operator's Life, if near it, will be in Danger; but the just Degree of Heat being observed and kept up, and all Things going on regularly, whilst the Water distilled into the Receiver is white, thick, sapid, frothy and muddy, it is good, and should be carefully kept by itself. That which follows is thin and clear, destitute of much Taste or Smell of the Plant; it is rather fouled and tartish, a white dreggy Matter, whose Acid will corrode the Copper-head, if not well tinn'd, and the Water thereby become green and nauseous, having a Degree of Poison (from the dissolved Copper) is dangerous to Childre [...] weak or sick People especially, whom it violently works upwards [Page 17] and downwards, with severe Gripes, which are only relieved by plentiful Draughts of Milk sweetened with Honey, or of mucilaginous, emollient Decoctions. The first Water contains the Oil, and presiding Spirit of the Plant, and somewhat saline, which is mostly acid, but in pungent Antiscorbutics, it is a volatile Alcali. The Fire and Water, by Digestion and boiling, dissolve the Oil of the Plant, and reduces it to so small Particles, as are carried up by the help of the Water, along with the other Parts of the Herbs, which by this Means become volatile, and in close Vessels, all these Parts being closely united, will come over without much Loss or Alteration, having the Smell, Taste and Virtues, of the volatile Parts of the Plant, but has neither all the Parts nor Virtues of its Juice. If the first and second Waters are mixt, both are spoiled, therefore in distilling the Receiver should be often changed, that as the Water alters the Process may be stopp'd. The second Water is only cooling, and by the Solution of the Acid of the untinn'd Copper, it kills Worms, but the Experiment is dangerous. The first Water should neither be fined nor filtered to clear it; for that robs it of its vegetable, aromatic Oil, weakens it, nor will it keep long after, nor should it be kept in Bottles papered over the Mouth to keep out the Dust, but well corked with the best Corks, for what comes over the Helm in distilling, its lighter Parts will evaporate in the Air, and weaken the Water. And because some People, either ignorantly or wilfully, will distil such Plants as afford little, beside a little Flegm, or Acid of the Herb, which cannot preserve the Water from mothering, if they will have such they should have a little powdered Salt Petre to keep it. Thus we may observe, that the volatile [Page 18] Oil, Salt and Spirit of Plants, are lost by Decoction; and that the Decoction of pungent, saline Antiscorbutics, is ridiculous; and that odoriferous, sapid and aromatic Plants, should not be boiled. That by the Force of Fire, and too long Continuance of the Operation, very opposite Virtues may be raised from Plants, or a Water obtained of very different Nature and Effects, and that different Ingredients require different Ways of Management, and various Degrees of Fire to obtain their useful Properties. This also intimates a Way how to substitute distilled Water, in Cases where no great Stress is laid on their Use, besides a Vehicle; thus, drop a few Drops of the distilled Oil of the Plant, as of Mint, Fennel, Pennyroyal, (whose Water is wanting) into rectified Spirit of Wine, so as the Oil be dissolved wholly, and mixed with the Spirit, put two Drams of this Spirit into a Quart of Water, shake and mix them, and you have the Water wanted. Or if for immediate Use, drop some drops of the distilled Oil on a Piece of Sugar, or Salt of Tartar, rub it well in a Mortar, and mix with Water, this Wa [...]r will not keep; and as the Virtue depends only on the Oil, one, two, three, or four Drops of it, according to the Heat and Strength of the Oil, is much better given in a Bolus. This also teaches us how to improve the Strength of simple distilled Waters, viz. By adding a Dram or two of the above dissolved, distilled Oil, and rectified Spirit, to each two or three Pounds of the Water. But this is done far more effectually by Cohobation, which may be made even to exceed the Virtues of the Plants from which it is drawn, thus.

The Distillation being over, take out the Plant, and Water remaining in the Still, press them strongly in a Strainer, till all the Liquor is exprest, [Page 19] pour the distilled Water into it, put both back into the Still, having first put as much of the same Plant fresh got into the Still as before, and if needful, put in as much fresh Water as will make up the first Quantity, clean the Worm as before, cover the Hole in the Still Head-pipe, lute the Pipe and Worm, close up the Vessel well, let all stand in a gentle Heat three Days and Nights, till the separable Parts of the Plant are opened, loosened, and disposed to communicate its Virtues to the Water, then observing more exactly the Rules in the former Process, distil it as before, only as this Liquor is richer and stronger than the former, it requires a less Degree of Heat and Fire, till half the Quantity of Water put on is obtained; then stop the Process. This Water is whiter, thicker and muddier, than the former, has a stronger Smell and Taste, as well as richer, is more durable, and may have its Virtues still exalted by repeating the Operation oftener with Herbs; and if renewed a great many Times, the last Liquor may be taken out of the Still, strain'd off, and in an earthen, or well tinn'd Vessel, set on a slow Fire, that it neither burn, nor carry off its remaining Parts, and boiled up to an Extract of the Consistence of Honey or Melasses, this mix exactly with the Water obtained by several Distillations, thus will the Virtues of the Plant be concinerated and brought into a little Room, and a Medicine not only far surpassing the Virtues of the Plant, but scarce otherwise imitable.

The third Way of Distillation is by Fermentation, which alters them very little, and makes them very penetrating and volatile. It is thus, Take any aromatic or odoriferous Plant, cut and bruise it, if needful, put it in a large Oak Cask, leaving four or five Inches empty Space at Top, in cold [Page 20] Winter Weather, pour on warm Water with a sixth Part Honey dissolved in it, if a mild Season, one Eighth Part; but in Summer use the like Quantity of coarse, unrefined Sugar, or four Ounces of Barm, or light Yeast, to every Gallon of Water, fill up the Ca [...]k to the same Height with this Liquor, let it stand upright, and cover the Bung-hole in the upper End, with a Piece of loose Board, let it stand warm, and continue in this State till the Herbs, which at first rose to the Top, subside, and fall to the Bottom, which will be in four, five, or six Days, then distil directly as before, observing all the Rules there laid down. This Liquor being much stronger and spirituous will rise sooner, and with greater Force; therefore must be distilled more slowly, especially at first, it requires less Heat, and greater Caution. There comes over first a very strong, clear, penetrating Liquor, which is best for Use; then a dark, muddy, milky Liquor, possessed of some little Taste and Smell of the Plant. Lastly, a thin, acid, scarce odorous Liquor; all which must be kept separate, what remains in the Still is chiefly the Substance of the Honey, Sugar or Yeast, and little of the Virtue of the Plan [...], to make an Extract from. The first Liquor, tho' clear, yet mixt with Water turns Milk white, which shews, that it has brought over all the Oil of the Plant; and that the Whiteness of distilled, simple Waters, is owing to that Oil, and when cleared by fining or Filtration, the Water is effete and spoiled.

Thus we see what Plants will afford us by simple and cohobated Distillations, viz. The proper Water of the Herb, the Spirit contained in that Water, and the volatile Oil of the Plant, which turns its Water white, and a thin, separable, volatile, acid Liquor; most of these are lost in their [Page 21] open Decoction. What remains behind all this, not to be obtained by Infusion, Distillation or Decoction, is the constitutive Oil of the Figure of the Plant, which binds its earthy Parts together, and gives it its Form and Cement; a great deal of its proper, native Salt, and that Part which by Fire is changed into a fix'd Alcaline, and a great Part of its constitutive, elementary Earth, tho' it has lost some in the Decoction, which may be found both in the Oil, and Liquor left in the Still. Could we obtain all the fixed Oil by Distillation or Decoction, the cementing, or cohesive Principle, would be lost, and the Plant lose its Figure and Form, and having only Earth left, would fall down to Dust, the fix'd Salt going with the Oil, these two being the soapy Part of the Plant. To obtain this fix'd Salt, take the Herbs strained out of the Liquor after Distillation (for I here suppose the strained Liquor made into an Extract, if not so used, take both Liquor and Herb out of the Still) put them into a clean Iron Pan over a slow, clear Fire, which raise by Degrees, there will first arise a Fume, then the Plant turns black, then takes Fire and burns, glows, sparkles, and leaves a white Ash; thus is consumed the fix'd Oil of the Plant, which gave its Parts Cohesion and Figure. Take up these white Ashes, which are only the Earth and fix'd Salt of the Herb, put them in Water, let all stand till the Water is clear, then pour all into a filtering Cup, so will the dissolved Salts and Water go through, and leave the Earth in the Cup; evaporate the filtered Liquor in an earthen, or rather glass Vessel, in a Sand Heat, or over a slow Fire, it leaves a white, alcaline, lixivial Salt, which was in the Plant, but now altered by the Fire, mix this Salt with the distilled Water; so have you all the Parts of the Plant except the fix'd [Page 22] Oil and Earth, which can only be got by using the Plant in Substance in Powder, Pills, or Electuary. The Liquor and Herbs left in the Still from Distillation, by Fermentation with Honey or Sugar, afford not this Salt, for Honey burns to a Coal. The cold Still is only fit for tender Flowers, which yet are better distilled by the Alembic, with proper Care. English Plants fit for Distillation are, Angelica, Baum, Spirement, Pepper-mint, Calamint, Hyssop, Pennyroyal, Rue, whose Water is good for little without several Cohobations, which is admirable in hysteric Convulsions; Camomile, Calamus Aromaticus, Chervil, Clary, Dill, Dittany, Fennel, Feverfew, Jessamin, Lovage, Lilly of the Valley, white Lillies, Marjoram, Masterwort, Motherwort, Tansey, Maudlin Tansey, Origanum, Savory, Roses, Sage, Spinnel, wild Thyme, Savin, Juniper Berries, Corn Poppies, &c.

Besides those Extracts made from the Residum of distilled Waters, several other excellent Ones might be prepared the same Way, as of Elecampane, Wormwood, Berberry Bark, Broom, Lesser Centaury, white Horehound, Tormentil, Liquorice, Garden Rhubarb, Mugwort, St. John's Wort, Rue, Feverfew, Elder and Dwarf Elder, Barks, Plantain, Maidenhair, [...]mitory, Hart's Tongue, Arsmart, Rest-harrow, Gentian, Juniper, Camomile, Coltsfoot, Pilewort, &c. Which might be given in Waters of other Herbs, of the same Intentions. But remember that mucilaginous Plants are not easily reducible to this Form, for they will burn before they come to a due Consistence, without very great Care and Judgment, as Roots of Comfrey, Althaea, Serra, Fern, Osmond Royal, Linseed, Flea-bane, &c. Red and damask Roses are both distilled, but very idly, for the latter affords much the best Water, yet neither much [Page 23] worth, only a little light, separable Oil of the Flower is brought over, that gives it a Smell, which makes it little cordial and reviving, but without any regard to Distillation, a good astringent Extract may be got from the former, and a lovely, laxative Syrup, from the latter, better than that of Rhubarb, for no Purgatives are worth distilling, that Part of the Plant being too gross or ponderous to come over the Helm. The Dose of distilled Waters is from Half an Ounce, to two, three, or four Ounces, according to the Age of the Patient, and Nature of the Water, the Dose of Extract is from ten Grains to a Dram. Thus much for Infusions, Decoctions, Distillations, Extracts and Incineration, as they relate only to domestic, not officinal Remedies.

Syrups are another Form, they are in a great Measure deservedly neglected in the present Practice, except Anodynes, Laxatives and Purgations; for alexipharmac, diaphoretic, cordial, antiscorbutic, cephalic, nervous, &c. Syrups, are a meer Jest and Fraud, that Form being so loaded with Sugar, that [...]ey seldom reach farther than the first Passages. One great Use of them was to render several Forms of Remedies more palatable, which is now mostly answered by using Sugar or white Syrup, (which is only made of Sugar and Water) in their Room. No Plants proper for Distillation, or consisting of volatile Principles, can be used in this Form without the Loss of these Parts; therefore those only fit for Decoction are proper for it; these are the best which are of a saline and earthy Nature. Dried Herbs (if they will bear drying) are much the best, for only the Phlegm, or Water of the green, being dried away, they will communicate more of their saline and substantial Parts to the Water, so that the Syrup will be both stronger [Page 24] of the Ingredients, finer, and keep longer. But the best of them, if not boiled up to a due Consistence, will turn acid and four, mouldy or spoil, especially if made of green Herbs, so that saving Sugar, Coal and Time, is bad Husbandry here▪ but Syrups made of the Juice of Herbs is far worse, for in drying nothing is lost but the Flegm, but in the Juice some of the Parts are not disposed to separate so easily from the constituting earthy Part of the Plant, and of those that depart from it, several are lost in the necessary Purification, and Clarifications of the Juice, and still the Syrup is more unsightly, and not so pleasant. The several Ways of clarifying Infusions, Decoctions, or Juices, are, either to let them stand some Hours in a cool Place, in a clean Vessel, well covered, till they let fall their gravelly, earthy, or other gross or heavy Parts, then pour off the clear, or pass them several Times through a Hyppocras Bag or Strainer, till they become clear, but tho' they are hereby made finer, yet some of their gummy, resinous or viscous Parts, may be lost, which is the Reason that purging, mucilaginous, and anodyne Syrups should never be clarified. Or mix fresh Whites of Eggs with the Decoction, and whisk them long together, then boil all, and as the Whites of Eggs harden in boiling, they intangle the grosser Parts with them, so that the strain'd Liquor put through a Hyppocras Bag is clear. Syrups should be prepared either in earthen or well tinn'd copper Vessels.—Some useful Family Syrups are made without any Heat, and little Trouble or Expence, as these of Snails, or Earth Worms, which are gathered in a dewy Morning, the former are taken out of the Shells, and slit; the latter are wash'd and cut; to a Pound of either of them, put half a Pound of fine powder'd [Page 25] Sugar, mix them well, and hang all up in a Bag in a cool, moist Cellar, and let the Syrup drop from the Bag into an earthen Vessel under them; they are good for weak, hectical Children, Dose from half a One to two Spoonfuls.— Syrups of fragrant Flowers of thin, loose, volatile Parts, as Roses, Violets, Clove-gilly Flowers, Cowslips, Peach Flowers, &c. are made by pouring as much boiling Water on them as will scald them well, let them stand ten or twelve Hours, or all Night, in a close, well-covered, glaz'd, or well-tinn'd Vessel (tho' all Metals are in Danger to spoil their Colour and Beauty) strain them off, and to every Pint of the Liquor, add a Pound and a Half of Loaf Sugar (which is enough for Family Use, if made yearly, and too much Sugar spoils the Design of the Medicines, (if it meant any thing.) Set all on the same Vessel, cleared on a Sand, or other gentle Heat, till either the Sugar be well dissolved and mix'd, or they come to the Consistence of a Syrup; Dose of the Syrup of Violets, pale Rose, and Peach Flowers, from half an Ounce to two Ounces, but the Second is the best; the first is little worth, except to give Mixtures a fine Colour or Flavour, or with Oil of sweet Almonds, or Linseed, to give Children for a Cold; the third being found too churlish and griping a Purge for Children, is mostly laid aside, and in making it requires four or five Infusions of the same strained Liquor on fresh Flowers. The Dose of the rest of those Syrups is what you please, for they will neither do Good, nor Harm. Syrup of Corn Poppies is made by a double Infusion of four Pints of Water, on two Pound of the Flowers; or rather by pouring just so much as will scald them; a Pound and a Half of Loaf Sugar to each Pin [...] of Water may suffice, and made as above, [Page 26] for boiling spoils it, Dose from one Quarter of an Ounce, to two Ounces, in Poppy Water especially. —Some Syrups are made with Sack, or Canary Wine, as Saffron, an Ounce to a Pint, shake both well in the Bottle, cork it close, and set it two or three Days in a genle Heat, then strain off the Wine, and dissolve it in twenty Ounces of Sugar, it is mix'd with other cordial Medicines, an Ounce to eight or ten of a Julep. But it would be better Husbandry to take two or three Ounces of what remains in the Still after the Spirit is drawn off; to two Ounces of this, put eighteen Ounces of Canary, mix them well, and filter the Liquor, and with double Quantity of Sugar make a Syrup, Dose as above.—A good pectoral Syrup may be made by infusing two Ounces of Liver of Sulphur, three Days in a Pint of Canary, then filter it, and add a Pound, or a Pound and a Half of Sugar, melt it without boiling, Dose from one Quarter to one Ounce.—Several Syrups are made of the Juices of Fruits, as of Rasberries, Quinces, Berberries, Mulberries, Elder, Buckthorn, &c. They are made by putting a Pound and a Half of Sugar to a Pound of Juice, and boiling them up to Syrup, Dose of all these what you will, except the last, which is from half an Ounce to an Ounce or two, but it is too harsh for most Children, this Juice is neither to be clarified nor made with Loaf, but coarse Sugar.— Many Syrups are made by Decoction, or boiling the Ingredients, but most of them are good for nought; but such as are in love with the Form may take the Roots, dried Herbs, Flowers, or Seeds they intend, cut or bruise them, pour boiling Water on them, to the Height of three or four Fingers above the Ingredients, cover them up, and let them stand a Night or two; then in a [Page 27] tinn'd Vessel boil away the Water to two Thirds, or a Half, strain out the Liquor, and to each Pint of it, a Pound, or a Pound and a Half of Sugar, is enough for Family Use, boil all up to a Syrup, and if it is neither for vomiting, nor purging, nor for sleeping, Dose what you please under a Pint, it only cloys the Stomach and Bowels, except in Coughs and Colds, the Sugar may make them of some little Use, as Pectorals. Stomachics, Vulneraries, Styptics, Astringents, Balsamies, &c. are used to unspeakably better Purpose in Decoction, and Diuretics, Cephalics, Uterines, &c. in Infusions, or Diet Drinks. There are one or two good Remedies in this Form, viz. simple Oxymel, which is only a Pound of Honey to three Pints of Water, and a Pint of White-wine Vinegar, boil them up to a Syrup, but the next is far better, it is Oxymel of Squills, or two Pound of Vinegar of Squills boiled up with three Pound of Honey, to a thick Syrup, Dose from a Dram, to two or three Ounces. Vinegar of Squills is made by infusing the bruised Root in Vinegar. Other Vinegars are made by infusing a Pound of Flowers in twelve Pound of White-wine Vinegar, or strong Aligar, for forty or fifty Days, and straining it off for Use; medicinal Honeys are only thick Syrups boiled up with Honey, instead of Sugar.

Medicated Wines may be contrived to supply the Place of solider Forms, with which the Stomach has either been jaded out before, or are nauseous to it; they are not only given easier to Children, but save a Vehicle to the grown up, and go sooner and further into the Blood and Vessels, carry less useless Parts along with them, and many of them are easily prepared, as Steel Wine, which is pouring a Pint of white Wine on an Ounce of Steel Filings, let them stand and infuse three or [Page 28] four Days, in a warm Place, uncorking and shaking the Bottle several Times, pour it off, and filter the Liquor, Dose from two Ounces to four, once or twice a Day. Or infuse two Ounces of dried Squills in a Pint of white Wine forty Days, decant the Liquor, Dose from half an Ounce, to four Spoonfuls. Variety of Wines may be made by warm or cold Infusions of Roots, Herbs, Peel, Barks, Fruits, or Seeds, Dose from one to four Spoonfuls, or more.—But if the Ingredients are solid, ponderous, resinous, &c. they must be infused in Brandy, Rum, Spirits, or rectified Spirits, in a cold or hot Place, as the Virtues of the several Ingredients are more or less fix'd to their Earth; such are called Tinctures of Elixirs, the first from their Colour, whether from the Subject, or by adding some colouring Articles to it, as Cochineal, red Saunders, &c. Many Tinctures are also drawn in Water only by meer Infusion of Things of loose Texture. But as we have few domestic Vegetables of such a compact Nature, a [...] require either rectified, or acid, or alcaline Spirits, to extract their Virtues, I shall omit them; Water, Wine, Brandy, Rum, or Spirits, being sufficient Menstruums for domestic Use.

Conserves, how much soever admired by some, are, in the general, a very useless Form, on which there is no Dependance in taking from half a Dram to a Dram, whereof a Man may eat from four to eight Ounces of the most of them, without either Good or Harm, if so much Sugar offend not his Stomach. Only they serve as a Basis to make up, or give a Form to other Medicines, as Bolusses, or Electuaries; or to mix with other Things, as Conserve of Roses and Lucatellus's Balsam, or Sperma Ceti. The Use of many of them will never answer Expences in Families, except of a very [Page 29] few for Sweet-meats in Winter, as of Hips. And instead of three Pound of Loaf Sugar to every Pound of Roots, Herbs, or Flowers, [...]o be made into Conserve in private Families, equal Weight of Sugar is sufficient for the drier Sort, as Flowers of Rosemary, Lavender, Baum, and a Pound and a Half of Sugar to a Pound of the moister, as of Borrage of Bugloss. The Flowers to be conserved, should be gathered before they blow, clipped from their White, clean'd from their Seed, and well pounded with Sugar in a Marble Mortar, till the Flowers and Sugar are so incorporated, as to be indiscernably separate. Herbs, Roots, or Peel, should be got in their proper Seasons, when fullest of Juice. Peel to be conserved, should be taken fresh pared off from the Fruit, put in an earthen Vessel, with as much Sugar, and let stand a few Weeks in a Cellar, till the Rind mellow, then it will be much easier made. Fruits, as Hips, should be gathered ripe, laid up till well mellowed, then pick'd, clean'd, and with equal Weight of Sugar, beaten to a smooth, fine, clear Pulp, or Conserve, having first pulped the beaten Fruit through a Hair Sieve, before the Sugar is put in. Conserves of Elecampane and Comfry Roots are both done this Way, only they are boiled first in a little Water till they are soft. Sloes are first baked in an Oven, then pulp'd, and put through a Hair Sieve, and if still too moist, boiled a little over the Fire, and stirred all the while, till they come to a due Consistence; then put the Sugar to them, and beat it up. All Conserves should be kept in a dry Place, that their Sugar draw not in Water from the Air, and so melt and spoil the Conserve. Sugar of Roses is only a Pound of Sugar dissolved in Rose-water, and an Ounce of fine powdered Rose Leaves added, with a few [Page 30] Drops of Spirit of Vitriol to brighten and preserve the Colour, mix all well, lay it on a Marble, roll it out, and cut into small Pieces, lay them on Paper, dry them, and keep them, to give to consumptive People, or to mix with Asses Milk, from half a Dram to a Dram. The common Conserves are made of red or Damask Roses, Flowers of Borrage, Bugloss, Mary-gold, red and white Dead Nettle, Rosemary, Lavender, Primroses, Clove Gilly-Flowers, Tops of Rue, Sage, Roman Wormwood, thin Outtersline, Rinds of Oranges, Leaves of Scurvy-grass, Wood Sorrel, Roots of Elecampane, Comfry, or any others a Person pleases, or is willing to bestow Money and Time on.

Powders must be prepared of Roots, Herbs, or other Ingredients, well cleaned and picked from Stalk or decayed Leaves, or other Parts. Flowers should be as fresh as they can be dried, and well cleaned, seeing all that passes the Sieve is to go into the Stomach. Let the whole Subject or Ingredient designed for Powder, be powder'd and sifted at one Time, and not at several Times; for if the Ingredient consist of different Textures and Cohesions, these may have various Effects, and should be given in different Doses; for Instance, should one Part purge upwards, and another downwards, and one of these should be powdered, and not the other, both given, the Patient would be deceived in the Operation. As Things used in this Form are given in Substance; Ingredients of a volatile and aromatic Nature, should be powder'd only in such a Quantity as is used at once, that they may be always fresh and good, what remains must not be put into wide-mouth'd Glasses, papered over, as is too much the Custom, for they either lose their pungent, volatile Parts, and [Page 31] become effete, as Powder of Arum Root, or turn rancid, as of the cold oily Seeds, which not being reducible to a fine Powder, should never be given in that Form, but in Electuaries, fresh Emulsion, or Troches. The most medicinal and effectual Parts of Aromatics, are often their lightest and loosest, which fly off in powdering, therefore should be greatly moistened with just so much Spirit, as will hinder their flying off, without making them ball or cake under the Pestle, like resinous Substances, unless the Mortar and End of the Pestle be easily greased with a little Oil first. Compound Powders, made with several Aromatics, are called Species. Acrid, bitter, resinous, nauseous and ungrateful Ingredients, must be avoided in this Form, as much as may be; nor should it consist of Ingredients of an opposite Nature, as Allom and lixivial Salts; and all confused, inconsistent Jumbles and Farrages, must be guarded against, especially of different Intentions and Operations; Powders are given from a few, as five or six Grains to a Dram or two, according to their Nature and Intentions.

Electuary is a Form of various Ingredients powdered and made up into a soft Consistence, either with Syrups or Honey, but they must be made stiffer for keeping, than for present Use, it is called Electuary of Treacle, or Opiate, tho' nothing be in it to induce Sleep. When Honey is used, it should be first boiled and well scummed, and so should all Syrups be, especially these with coarse Sugar or Honey. Salts, whether lixivial or acid, espeically both together, must not be mixed with Electuaries, for they generate Air, swell the Medicine, and apt to cause it to ferment, if not used instantly. If Pulps are to be added, they should first be boiled, and then put through a Hair Sieve; [Page 32] Honey must be first warmed to thin it; if odoriferous, chymical Oils, are to be put in, let it be with the Powders, and work all together carefully, with a wooden Pestle in a Marble Mortar; if Salts are wanted, let them be put in when they are to be used. Let as few ingrateful Things be put in the Form as may be. Their Dose is the same as of Powders, only allowing for the Quantity or Weight of the Syrup or Honey in them. Bolusses or Morsels are only a small Portion of Electuary made (for the present Purpose) into one, or a few Doses.

Pills are another Form, wherein often Things are put of a disagreeable Taste, sticking in the Teeth or Mouth, or cannot be otherwise safely taken, as Bitters, Gums, Mercurials, &c. whose Dose lies in less Bulk, being from a Scruple to two in Purgatives for grown up Persons, or to a Dram or two in Alteratives, but such large Doses must be made up in Rotulae or little Balls. Some Opiates, Diuretics, Alexipharmacs Emenagogues, Pectorals, Openers of Obstructions, and some Medicines against Worms, Cephalics, and Uterines, are capable of this Form. No volatile, or fix'd Salts, should be put in them, for they cause them to ferment, huff and break. The fewer and smaller they are taken more easily; their Consistence should neither be too hard, nor too soft. Laxative Pills are taken at Night, Purgatives early in the Morning, other Alteratives Morning and Night, in the Pulp of a roasted Apple, in a Raisin, Wafer Paper, or in the Flesh of Prunes, and drink something after to wash them down; a little aromatic Oil, as of Cloves, Anise, or the like, may be put to them to give them a finer Flavour, and expel Wind.—Troches, or Lazerges, are made to hold in the Mouth till they dissolve slowly, and [Page 33] swallow their Solution, either for a Cough, or other Disorders of the Breast, or Heart-Burn. They are prepared of several Powders made up into a hard Pas [...] ▪ with Mucilage of Gum Tragacanth, or with [...]ugar dissolved in the Mucilage, or with the Juice of some Herb. The Paste is rolled out, and cut into small Pieces, laid on Paper, and dried in the Shade, or in a cool Oven; they are seldom used now.

Of Oils, only these by Insolation, or Decoction, are of domestic Preparation. The former are made by infusing Flowers, as of Roses, white Lillies, St. John's Wort, or Mulewort, in four Times their Weight of Oil in a close Vessel, set them several Days in the warmest Sun, strain off the Oil, and pour on fresh Flowers and Tops (except of white Lillies) and set in the Sun as before, at last strain out for Use; thus you preserve both Virtue and natural Smell of the Parts without Loss or Burning. But the Virtue of green Plants must be drawn out by a single, double, or triple Decoction in Oil, over a slow Fire, till they are crisp; this both spends the watery Part of the Plant, prevents its burning, and that nasty yellow Colour, which they have; but to avoid all three, strain out the Oil into a clear Pan, set it over a gentle Fire, let it simmer, till a Drop taken out of it be a fine pure green. Oil obtained from Fruits, as ripe Bayberries, whilst undried, must be boiled in Water, and the Oil scummed off as it rises to the Top, till it is all gathered, then put it into a clean Vessel, and simmer it over the Fire, till the Water in it is exhaled, or no more Smoak or Reek rises; then put it up for Use. Oils from Animals, as new whelped Puppies, or Earth Worms, is made by boiling them in Oil, till the former fall to Pieces, and the latter are crisp.

[Page 34]Ointments and Liniments differ chiefly in their Consistences, the former being the stiffer, the latter the softer, is made by putting in a little more Oil into the made Ointment to soften it, or by putting in less Turpentine and Wax in it: Liniments are also made by mixing Oils and Ointments, or Spirits and Balsams with Ointments, and incorporating them well; [...] by melting down a Plaister with more Oil to soften it. The same Cautions are requisite here as in Oils, to prevent the Burning, and obtain and preserve the Virtue and Colour of the Ointment, and to make them stronger by a double or triple Infusion or Decoction of the same fresh Ingredients in the same strained off Oil, or Lard. Ointments are made with Butter, or Hog's Lard. Some Ingredients must be infused or boiled in Vinegar first, to open their Body, but it must be well exhaled in boiling; the Wax, Resin and Turpentine, should not be added till the Liquor is strained off. Very few of this Form will answer all domestic Purposes; Exercise, Bathing, and Friction, taking up now a great deal that was ascribed to them. Ointments that have Wines or Juices in, must have these well exhaled, as well as the Juice of Herbs or Vinegar, or they will hinder the Colour of the Ointment, as well as spoil it. Embrecations, Fomentations and Baths, are now mostly used for Ointments, and sometimes succeed better, and are more sweet, cleanly and neat, but neither should be rejected; for I have often found, that where one of those would not answer, another would; and diseased, pained, lame People, will readily sacrifice a little Cleanness to their Ease and Health. Embrecations are only a Mixture of several Sorts of Spirits, sometimes with resinous, gummy, or soapy Things, added to them, to be rubbed and chauffed into the Part, to attenuate the Humours lodged there, stimulate and invigorate [Page 35] the Vessels, to propel them: Fomentations are a Decoction of three, four or five Handfuls of Herbs, with some Berries or Seed in three Pints of Water to two, then strained off, and some Spirits put to it, and used warm in Flannels wrung out of it, one Flannel on the Part, and another ready to take out of the Liquor, when the other is cool; twenty or thirty Flannels may be thus applied. Fomentations loosen the Fibres and Vessels of the Part, open its Pores, whilst the Skin admits some of the thinner Parts of the Liquor to dissolve and thin the Humours, fit them for Perspiration and Circulation; sometimes Fomentations are immediately followed by Embrecations, as soon as the Parts are rubbed dry. All Fomentations used to relaxed, weak Parts, should be applied hot; but to stiff, rigid, or contracted Parts, tepid or Milk warm; this Degree of Heat relaxes, the other contracts. Baths are only general Fomentations, where instead of Flannels, the whole Body is immersed in the Bath; in which they may continue according to its Degree of Heat and their Strength, from fifteen Minutes to an Hour.

Plaisters are made chiefly of Oils, Lard, Waxes, Resins and Powders, in making of which it is necessary, 1. That if there are any Minerals in them, as Letharge, it be first boiled in Vinegar, till it is almost dry, before any Oils or Lard be added. 2. That if there are any green Herbs used, they may be infused in white Wine, then boiled in the Oil till crisp, and strained out, and their Humidity exhaled, before any other Ingredients be put to the Oil. 3. That when Juices or Mucilages are used, they be boiled in the Oil till their Humidity or watery Parts be spent, before other Articles are added. 4. Gummy and resinous Substances are not to be put in before all humid [Page 36] or watery Parts of the former Ingredients are exhaled. 5. Indissolvable Powders are not to be put in till the Plaister is taken from the Fire, and cooling. 6. Plaisters must be constantly stirred whilst making, or some Parts will often burn; the whole not incorporated, the Colour lost, and the whole spoiled. 7. If a Plaister is boiled too much, it should be lowered with more Oil; if too low boiled, and come not to a Consistence, let it either be boiled higher, or have more Powders sifted into it; if brittle and crumbling, that it will not stick, put more Turpentine, white Pitch, or other tough Body to it. 8. When Quicksilver is added, it must be exactly mix'd with Turpentine, or it and liquid Styrax in a Mortar, then put to the Plaister when almost cold and well mix'd. 9. When Opium is added, it must either first be dissolved in that Vinegar which is boiled with Minerals, or dried, powder'd and put in, or dissolved in the Wine strained from Herbs, or dissolved in the Juices to be boiled. 10. When Plaisters are to be spread, they must not be made too hot, lest they either burn, or become brittle, that they will not stick. 11. Many Plaisters are much better kept in Pots well bladdered over than in Rolls. 12. Several, especially warming and discussing Plaisters, should be spread pretty thick.

Glysters and tepid Bathing in common Water are too much neglected in the present Practice, especially as it has not yet supplied us with better Succedantures. Glysters are used of tepid common Water, to relax, dilate, or mitigate Irritation, or of fresh Broth, or Milk and Sugar, for an easy Laxative; or of the common Decoction of Emollients and Purgatives to purge; or with Emollients, Turpentine, and some Drops of liquid Laudanum, in reaching Pains of the Stone without Inflammation; or of the same Decoction, and [Page 37] Nitre, and Laudanum, with Inflammation; or made of the bitterest Decoctions, and given without Oil for Worms; or of the most stimulating, acrid Ingredients in Apoplexies or Lethargies; or of Astringents and Balsamics in Dysenteries; or of most nutritive, liquid Food, in Pains of the Gullet, or other Stoppages of swallowing without Inflammation, &c. Quantity thrown in at a Time, is from two Ounces to a Pound, according to the Age of the Patient, and Intent of the Glyster. If Purgatives work not within three Hours after they are taken, let a Glyster be injected; if the Person cannot retain it, but it comes away immediately, give another: Two, or at most, three in a Day are sufficient (except in extraordinary Cases) at four or five Hours Distance. But if one answer the End it is enough. When it is intended to lie long in the Body, as in the Gravel, bloody Flux, &c. it must be given in small Quantity, as from four Ounces to six▪ But if several Glysters of different Purgatives are given in one and the same Day, without Operation, give a small one of six Ounces of tepid Water, and from two Drams to six of Sea Salt, mix and throw up, it will work immediately.

Suppositories are useful, either when Glysters have been given in vain, or the Person cannot retain Glysters, or cannot be laid in a right Posture to receive them. But they are not proper where Costiveness is from much hardened Excrements in the Rectum; or from a Crump, Convulsion, or Contraction of the Sphimter. They may be made of Salt and Honey boiled up so stiff, that they will roll up; or of the small End of a Candle dipped in sweet Soap, and put up; or of Salt and Hierapicra boiled up in Honey; they should be dipped in Oil before they are put up.

[Page 38]Injections are sometimes Decoctions of Roots, Herbs, or Seeds in Water, strained and mixed with other Things, as Honey, to throw up with a large Syringe or Glister pipe into the Womb or Yard; or are sometimes of distilled Waters and Honey; sometimes of Powders and Water, as Rhasis, white Troches and Camphire, of Sugar of Lead, &c. or of meer Emulsions made with Turpentine, the Yolk of an Egg, and Linseed Oil, with Water, &c.

Pessories are made with proper Powders mixed with the Yolk of an Egg to the Consistence of an Ointment, and rubbed over a Piece of Gentian, or other spungy or stimulant Root, or scattered in Wool, and put up; or Juice of Herbs and Powders, and Wool dipped in them. They should have a String tied to their lower End; if sharp, they should not lie in above an Hour, if mild, all Night; they are fittest after bathing. If they give Pain, use Oil of Violets and Mucilage of Fleabane after; Gravids should not use them.

Gargles are used, either for Inflammations of the Mouth and Throat, as cooling acid, sub-astringent Washes, or for cleansing the Mouth and Throat from Phlegm; or for cooling, softening, and moistening, as in Fevers. All these are made, either of boiled Herbs and Vinegar, Spirit of Vitriol, Honey, or Syrups put to the strained Liquor. Or of soft, smooth, mucilaginous Decoctions and Syrups. Or of Simple Waters, Syrups and Acids, &c.

Eye-waters are chiefly for cooling and repelling sharp Humours, as of Rose-water and Rhasis's, Troches, or Rose-water, with Sugar of Lead; or a few Grains of white Vitriol in Rose-water; or le [...]vigated Tutty, or Calumy Stone calcined, and put in Rose-water, or a little Aloes dissolved in it, &c.

[Page 39]The Reader, by comparing this Appendix with the foregoing Work, may observe what Forms or Things, gathered from antient or modern Writers, are either obsolete, rejected, or retained in the present Practice; tho' in Complaisance and Justice to several former eminent Men, I have given several Things in their own Forms, yet herein advertised the Reader what of them are useless, or thereby spoiled. Out of a Multitude of Services done my Neighbours and Poor, in a Series of many Years Practice and Observation▪ chiefly by our own British Vegetables, or Product, I have given the few following References, wherein the first Figure indicates the Page, the second the Line; and here observe, that where the Number of the Line is in Roman Letters, it shews a more frequent Success. Many more might have been added, but these are sufficient to justify the Design, recommend the Work, and encourage the charitably disposed to a frequenter Use, greater Dependance upon, and better Management of our own Simples, especially as they have here several valuable Receipts never published before. I heartily wish the Sick and Poor great Advantage from the Whole.

PAGE 1. l. 22.—p. 2. l. X [...]XV.—p. 14. l. V.34.—p. 5. l. 6.12.13—p. 6. l. 33. —p. 8. l. III. l. VIII to XII.— p. 9. l. 16.— p. 10. l. VIII.—p. II. l. 18. and l. XXVI. l. 29. — p. 16. l. 10.20.26. — p. 18. l. 27.—p. 20. all after l. 9.— p. 23. l. XII.— p. 24. l. 11.14. l. XVII. l. XXIV. scarce ever fails in curable Cases, after Mercurials, Tartar regenerate, &c. have failed.— p. 25. l. 14 and 22. — p. 28. l. II. — p. 30. l. 26. — p. 31. l. XXVII. — p. 32. l. XVI.XVII. — p. 33. l. 4. — p. 34. l. XXX. — p. 37. l. V. — p. 39. l. 33. — p. 40. l. XXXV. — p. 42. l. 4. — [Page 40] p. 24.26. and l. 28. and l. 30.34. — p. 43. l. 2.10.12.13. — p. 44. l. VII. — p. 45. l XV. — p. 50. l. 1. — p. 51. l. 1.XXI.24.25. — p. 53. l. 11.6.17. — p. 55. l. IV.31. — p. 56. l. VII. — p. 57. l. 16.XIX. — p. 58. l. X.33. — p. 62. l. XXI. — p. 63. l. 25.30. — p. 64. l. 5.XVI. — p. 65. l. 32.—p. 66. l. XXII. — p. 67. l. XXIV.28. — p. 71. l. 9.11.XV.XVIII.21. — p. 73. l. XXIV.XXXII. — p. 74. l. 11.28. — p. 76. l. 1. — p. 77. l. XI.XXXII. p. 78. l. III. — p. 77.35. — p. 82.3.17. — p. 83. l. 18.20. — p. 84. l. 5.XXVII. — p. 85. l. 10.XXXII. — p. 86. l. 1. — p. 87.XIII. — p. 92. l. 1. — p. 95. l. XXV.XXX. — p. 96.XX.29. — p. 98. l. 1. — p. 99. l. 9.12.18. — p. 100.13.20. — p. 101.X. — p. 103. l. 24. — p. 104. l. 14.26. — p. 107.19. to 108.9.28. — p. 109 5. — p. 110.5.— p. 111.31. — p. 113.XXIV. — p. 124. l. 1. — p. 125. l. 1.V. — p. 126.2.9. — p. 127. l. 2.7.IX.13. — p. 129.1 to 8. — p. 137.XXXI. — p. 138. l. 6. — p. 142. l. 10.21. — p. 143.10. — p. 145. l. 29. — p. 147. l. 23. — p. 151.34.— p. 152.3.11. — p. 153.1.14. — p. 156.XXII.26. — p. 159. l. XXXIII.XXXV. — p. 161.30.32 — p. 162. l. 1.11. — p. 166.XVI. — p. 169. l. 6. to 9. — p. 173. l. 6. — p. 176. l. XIII. p. 128. l. 27. — p. 180.VIII.12.13.33. — [...] 190. l. XVII. — p. 191. l. 6. — p. 192.6. — p. 196.XXIII. — p. 198.XXIX. — p. 200.33. — p. 202. l. VII. — p. 209. l. 5.27. — p. 210.10. — p. 215. l. 24. — p. 218. l. XXII. — p. 224. l. XIX. — p. 225. l. 25. XXXV. — p. 232. l. 32. — p. 233. l. 6.— p. 234. l. 4. — p. 239. l. 6. — p. 241. l. XXXV.— p. 246. l. 5.11. — p. 248. l. 7▪ — p. 252. l. 17. — p. 268. l. XXII. — p. 270. l 10. — p. 279. l. 21. — p. 286. l. 28.30. — p. 295. l. 8. — p. 304. l. 11.26. — p. 305. l. 8.

[Page 1]

Mr. BARTRAM's APPENDIX: CONTAINING Descriptions, Virtues and Uses, of sundry PLANTS of these Northern Parts of America; and particularly of the newly discovered Indian Cure for the Venereal Disease.

ARALIA, called by some Spikenard, by others Wild Liquorice; this bears large Clusters of Berries, ripe in September, which are pleasant and wholesome to eat: The Roots are of a balsamick Nature; the back Inhabitants use them to cure fresh Wounds; they bruise the Roots, then pour a little Spring Water to them, mixing them together, which brings the Mass to a mucilaginous Balsam, which they apply with good Success; the Roots chewed, and the Juice swallowed, help the Pains of the Loins.

Aralia Caule Nudo, commonly called Sarsaparilla, hath a long creeping Root, something like the Spanish, but is really a very different Plant, yet of great Virtue. The Decoction daily drank as Diet-drink, is much commended for cleansing the Blood, and curing a Dropsy; and outwardly applied is extoll'd for curing of the Shingles, and cleansing and heali [...]g of Ulcers.

Erigeren, used by some for the Bite of a Snake; it bears a white Flower in the Spring, something like [Page 2] a large Daisy, about a Foot high, the Roots run under the Surface of the Ground in small Fibres or Threads, of a hot Taste: The Indians pound this Root, and apply it to cold hard Tumours to dissolve them.

Saururus. Some of the Dutch call it Aristolochia, I suppose, because the Shape of the Leaf hath some Resemblance to that Plant. It grows in wet Places, and produceth a long Spike of white Flowers; the Root is spungy like a Rush, and runs near the Surface of the Mud.

IT is of excellent Virtue; being made into a Poultice, and applied to sore and imposthumated Breasts, it ripens and heals them. The dried Leaves made into a Tea and drank, is commended for the Pains of the Breast and Back.

Collinsonia. This Plant grows five Feet high; hath, in the Fall, after Harvest, a Smell, something like Hops; the Seed is much like Sage Seed. This, in some Parts of the Country, is called Horse Weed, not only because Horses are very greedy of it, but it also is good for sore gall'd Backs. The Root is hard and knobby, and is much commended for Womens After-pains, being pounded, boiled, and the Decoction drank.

Chelidonium, or Sanguinaria, called by the Country People, Red Root, or Turmerick. The Leaves broken yield a yellow Juice, like the Garden Celandine; the Flower is white, and opens early in the Spring; the Root dried and powdered is commended by Dr. Colden, as a Cure for the Jaundice, the Powder being given to the Weight of a Drachm in Small Beer; and by others, for the Bite of a Rattle-Snake.

Virga-aurea, or that Species of Golden Rod, that is so famous for the Bite of a Rattle-Snake. This elegant Species hath slender purple Stalks, rising a [Page 3] Foot high, with a Spike of fine yellow Flowers for near one third Part of the Length of the Plant; the Flowers grow out of the Bosom of the Leaves, three or four in little Tufts. This is extolled as a very effectual Cure for the Bite of a Rattle-Snake; the Herb boiled, and the Decoction drank, and the warm Herb applied to the Wound. It is used with good Success to cure the Swelling of the Throat and Neck, and Pains of the Breast, it being a powerful Dissolver of viscid Humours.

Jacea, called by some Throat-wort, because of its Virtue for the Cure of Sore-Throats. The Roots are as big as a Hiccory Nut, with some small Fibres; the Stalk is about four or five Feet high, without any Branches, with long narrow Leaves growing alternately thereon; the Flowers put forth toward the Top, surrounding the Stalk in a long Spike of purple Flowers.

THE Root bruised and boiled in Water, and the Decoction drank and gargled in the Mouth, and the Root applied, with warm Cloths dipped in the hot Decoction, to the Throat, gives Relief, it being of a warm discussing Nature.

Uvulary. It was formerly taken for a Species of Solomon's Seal, having smooth Leaves like it; but the Stalk grows through the Leaf, and the little yellowish Flowers something resemble a Lilly; it grows about a Foot high, the Root is white, and spreads like a Crow's Foot; some People call it by that Name for that Reason; it is a good Root for gathering and breaking a Boil, and makes a fine Salve for healing Wounds and Ulcers; it makes a sine maturating Poultice.

Triosteospermum, called in our Northern Colonies Dr. Tinker's Weed; in Pennsylvania, Gentian; and to the Southward Fever Root, where it is used for the Fever and Ague: With us it was used with [Page 4] good Success for the Pleurisy, and in New-England, for a Vomit. It is a powerful Worker, a little churlish, yet may be a noble Medicine in skilful Hands.

Blazing-Star, as it is called by the back Inhabitants, by others, Devil's- bit, both fanciful Names; the Leaves spread on the Ground, four or five from one Root, and are three or four Inches long; and near one broad; in June it shoots up a Stalk eighteen Inches long, with a fine Spike of white Flowers six Inches long; it grows plentifully in the back Parts of the Country, on dry rich Soil; the Root is white, and about as thick as a Pipe-shank, and extremely bitter.

THIS precious Root is a great Resister of fermenting Poisons, and the grievous Pains of Bowels, taken in Powder, or the Root bruised and steeped in Rum, of which take a Spoonful at once, and [...] often as Need requires, until the Pains remit.

Star-Grass. This hath some Resemblance to the last, but the Leaves are narrower and more pointed, and in Winter more yellow, and this grows in moist Places, amongst Hurtle-berries, very plentiful in Jersey, and some low Grounds in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

THE Decoction of this Root drank, easeth the Pains of the Stomach and Bowels.

Liriodendrum, commonly called Poplar. The Bark of the Root steeped in Rum, and the Rum drank, is much commended for the Cure of the Fever and Ague; and to the Northward, for the Gout and Rheumatism.

Apocinum. From the Roots that run deep in the Ground, arise several hairy Stalks about two Feet high, with narrow long Leaves set alternately round thereon; at the Top grow large Tusts of orange-coloured Flowers, which are succeeded by long [Page 5] Pods, containing flat Seeds, joined to white Down, which is by the Wind carried away when the Seed is ripe and bursts open; this hath been for many Years used with good Success for the Cure of the Bloody Flux; the Root must be powdered and given in a Spoonful of Rum, or rather as the Indians give it▪ bruise the Root, and boil it in Water, and drink the Decoction: Peter Kalm saith it is excellent for the hysteric Passion.

Orchis. It hath a Root as big as an Onion, it hath one or two Leaves green all Winter, which are six or seven Inches long, and two broad, striped with white Lines from one End to the other. This Root bruised and applied to the Ears, easeth the Pains thereof, and helps to break Boils.

Contuarium Luteum, commonly called Ground-Pine. It grows about a Span high, its slender Branches spread all round from one small fibrous Root, like our Penny-royal, but as small as Wire, or the Leaves of Pine, from which it had its Name; the little Flowers are yellow, succeeded by little red Pods on the Tops of the Branches; it smells as strong as the Leaves of Pine; it commonly grows on old poor Clay Ground; it is of excellent Virtue, being made into an Ointment with Penny-royal, Hemlock and Henbane (or it may do alone made into an Ointment) for Bruises and Strains, if it be green, for it loseth much of its Virtue when dry, it being of an active penetrating Nature.

Elichrysum, called also Cotton-weed, or Life-everlasting, is very good for Baths or Fomentations for cold Tumors, Bruises or Strains; it may be mixed with Ground-Pine.

Lobelia. This curious Plant riseth from a fibrous Root to three or four Feet high, with a Spike of blue Flowers surrounding the Stalk for near a Foot in Length: It grows in rich shady Ground; i [...] is a scarce Plant in many Parts of the Country.

[Page 6]THE learned Peter Kalm (who gained the Knowledge of it from Colonel Johnson, who learned it of the Indians, who, after great Rewards bestowed on several of them, revealed the Secret to him) saith, That the Roots of this Plant cureth the Pox much more perfectly and easily than any mercurial Preparations, and is generally used by the Canada Indians, for the Cure of themselves, and the French that trade amongst them, tho' deeply infected with it. They take a Handful of the Roots, and boil them in a Quart of Water, and drink the Decoction, beginning with Half a Pint at first, if the Patient be weak, then increase the Dose every Day as he can bear its purging; but if he can't bear it every Day, let him omit it a Day or two, then take to it again, as he finds Occasion, until he is cured: They wash the Ulcer with the Decoction; but if it be deep and rotten, they put some Powder of the inner Bark of the Spruce-tree into it, which helps to dry it up; but if the Disease is inveterate, they drink the Decoction of Ranunculus Folio Reniformus. An old Sachem told Colonel Johnson of another Shrub, with a red Root, from which proceeds several slender Branches, eighteen Inches or two Feet long, on which grow Spikes of white Flowers, which produce three-square black Seed-Pods; the Leaves some of our People drink as Tea, and some smoak it with Tobacco; the Roots of this, bruised and boiled, and the Decoction drank, the Sachem said, he rather preferred to the Lobelia; but the Lobelia seems to be of the most general Use, and with extraordinary Success.

More particular Directions how to use the Lobelia- Root for the Venereal Disorder, obtained from the Indians, by Col. J.

‘AFTER making a Decoction of it, the Patient is to drink about-two Gills of it very early in the [Page 7] Morning, fasting, the same before Dinner, and Bed-time. Add or diminish as you find it agree with the Patient's Constitution: The third Day begin Bathing, and continue it twice a Day, until the Sores are well cleansed, and partly healed, then use the Lotion but once a Day till quite well; observing all the Time to use a slender Diet (vegetable Food, and small Drink) as in other Courses of Physick, a Salivation excepted. These are the Directions I have had from the Person who gave me the Secret.’

Veronica Spicata. This Plant, from a fibrous Root, raiseth two or three Stalks from three to five Feet high, with three or four Leaves set at one Joint (if they are set across) with a long Spike of white Flowers on the Top of each Stalk.

ONE Handful of the Roots of this Plant, boiled in a Pint of Milk, and drank, is used by the back Inhabitants for a powerful Vomit.

Eupatorium Folium Perfoliatum. This Plant grows in moist Places; the Stalks grow (through the Leaves, which are rough and pointed) two or three Feet high, branching out towards the Top, producing a large Bunch of white Flowers, which are succeeded by fine Down, which bloweth away with the Seed.

THIS Herb boiled in Water, and the Decoction drank, is commended for a Vomit in intermitting Fevers, and used as a Fomentation for Pains in the Limbs.

FINIS.

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