were put into the upper whereat grow on each side a bush of small long Rush like hard leaves each part resembling an Horsetail at the tops of the stalks come forth small Catkins like unto those of Trees the root creepeth under ground having Joynts at sundry places The Places and Time Many of the foresaid sorts grow generally up and down this Land but some of them are not so frequent as others as the smallest and finest Leased Horsetail which groweth in the lower wet grounds in the woods about Highgate not â—ar from London Small party coloured Horsetail or Horsetail Coralline whose leaves being bitten seeme to be composed of Sand from their grating between the teeth groweth on a bog by Smochal a wood nigh Bathe The Stinking Horsetail was found by Mr. William Brown of Magdalen Colledge myself and others in a bog about half a mile from Stockers house in Stow Wood by Oxford by the Road that goeth to Islip You may guesse where the rest grow by their titles they do all spring up with their blackish heads in Aprill and put forth their blooming Catkins in July seeding for the most part in August and then perish down to the ground rising afresh in the Spring The Temperature Horsetail as Galen saith hath a binding faculty with some bitternesse and therefore it doth mightily dry and that without biting The Vertues I know nor where more properly to bestow this plant then in this place it being so effectual to stanch bleedings which most commonly burst forth at the Nose if the Juyce or Decoction thereof be drunk or the Juice Decoction oâ— distilled water applyed outwardly It stayeth also all sorts of Lasks and Fluxes in Man or Woman and pissing of blood it healeth also not only the inward Ulcers and Excoriations of the intralls bladder c. But all other sorts of soul moist and running Ulcers and soon sodereth together the tops of green wounds not suffering them to grow to maturation It cureth also Ruptures in Children quickly but in those that are elder more time is required according to the disposition of the party and the continuance The Decoction hereof in wine being drunk is said to provoke Urine to help the Strangury and the Stone and so doth the distilled water thereof drunk two or three times a day a small quantity at a time as also to ease the paines in the Entralls or Guts and to be effectual against a Cough that cometh by distillation of rheume from the head The Juyce or distilled Water being warmed and hot Inflamma ions Pustules or Red wheales and other such Eruptions in the skin being bathed therewith doth help them and doth no lesse ease the swellings heat and Inflammations of the Fundament and privie parts in Man or Woman and cureth Tetters and Ringworms The fume of it is good to cause children guts to go back into their Body when as through Flux or cold they hang forth and so it stoppeth the immoderate Terms of Women The young buds are dressed by some like Asparagus or being boyled are often bestrewed with flower and fryed to be eaten The smother rather then the Rough and the leafed then the bare is both more used and of better effect in physick CHAP. XXXV Of Shepheards purse The Names THis Plant hath not gotten any name in Greek that I can learn from any Author All Latine Writers that make mention of it call it Bursa or Pera Pastoris and Pastoria Bursa except Gesner who calleth it Thlaspi Fatuum and Castor Durantes Herba Cancri In English it is called Shepheards purse or Scrip from the likenesse the Seed hath with that kind of leatherne bag wherein Shepherds carry their Victualls into the field of some Shepherds pouch and poor mans Parmacety it being in some sort effectual for the same things that Parmacety is and in the North part of England Toywort Pickpurse and Caseweed and of some Clappedepouch The Kinds These were formerly but two sorts of Shepherds purse known but Bauhinus maketh paticular relation of two more which are the second and last so that there are four kinds in all 1. The greater common Shepherds purse 2. Great Shepherds purse with whole leaves 3. Small Shepherds purse 4. Hairy Mountain Shepherds purse The Forme The Common Shepherds purse hath divers small and long leaves somewhat deeply cut-in on both sides like Rocket of a pale green colour most commonly spread upon the Ground amongst which riseth up a small round stalk parted into sererall branches some of which are sometimes about two handfulls high have smaller and lesse divided leaves on them to the tops where grow many white flowers one above another after which follow flat whitish pouches or Seâ—d Vessels small at the bottoms broad at the heads and parted like the Thlasâ— aâ—â—ost in form of an heart in each side whereof lyeth a small brownish yellow sâ—â—d the root is small and white and perisheth after seed-time but ariseth of the scattered seed the same or the next year The Places and Time The greater and lesser sorts that have cut leaves are frequent in every place with us in England but the other two whose leaves are whole do not grow wild here yet in Germany Mompelier and Italy they do as Bauhinus and Thalius affirm They flower and seed all Summer long yea so quick some of them are that they flower and seed twice in every year The Temperature Shepherds purse is cold and dry and very much binding after the Opinion of Ruellius Matthiolus and Dodonaeus but Label and Pena finding a little heat upon the sharp taste of the flowers and seeds do judge it not to be cold at all but drying and astringent The Vertues This Plant also being a stopper of blood doth in a manner require this place because the nose is the Organ through which the blood doth commonly make its way and sometimes continueth so long that unless it be timely prevented it endangereth the life For remedying of which distemper it may be used by holding the hands full of it or by binding it about the neck by using it in meats or by applying it with Vineger and water to the secret parts The decoâ—â—ion thereof drunk stoppeth the Lask the Bloody Flux spitting blood pissing blood the Flowers and all other issues of blood most excellently well howsoever it be taken but especially with red Wine or Plantain water Some do hold that the green Herb bruised and bound to the wrests of the hands and soles of the feet will help the yellow Jaundice the Herb bruised and laid Pultis-wise upon Inflammations St. Anthonies fire or the like represseth them The juyce dropped into mattering or running eares helpeth them it closeth the lips of green wounds and is of great effect being made into a Salve for wounds in the Head The juyce thereof being drunk helpeth the straitness of the breath and the Strangury it stoppeth Rheum and provoketh Urine It is very prevalent against venomous bitings if it
and dented about the edges many of them having five divisions some six most seaven and sometimes though seldom eight according to the fertility of the soil At the tops of the branches stand divers small yellow flowers consisting of five leaves like those of Cinkfoil but smaller The root is smaller then Bistort somewhat thick tuberous or knobby blackish without and reddish within as the former sometimes a little crooked having many blackish fibres The Places and Times The common sort groweth not only in Woods and shadowy places but also in pastures and Closes lying open to the Sun Great plenty of it is to be found in Pray Wood near St. Albans and in a Close that lyeth between the Week and Stafford Lane near Heddington in Oxfordshire where the biggest roots that ever I saw grow The second groweth amongst the Helvetians or Switzers as also in the county of Tirol The last groweth upon the Alps in divers rocky or stony places as also upon the Pyrenaean mountains and among the Savoyards likewise The Temperature The root of Tormentil doth mightily dry and that in the third degre and is of thin parts it hath in it but little heat and is of a binding quality and therefore it must not be given to dry bodies nor to such as are very costive The Signature and Vertues The rednesse of the inside of the root of Tormentil is an eminent token that it is most excellent to stay all kinds of fluxes of blood or humours in Man or Woman whether at Nose Mouth Belly or any wound in the Veins or elsewhere It provokes sweat expells poison and is good to cure wounds the herb root and water are in use It is much used in the Pestilence and other malignant diseases as small Pox Measels Purples and spotted Feavers driving forth by sweat any contagion especially if the Flux of the belly be joyned with these diseases It is uâ—e 〈…〉 in Catarrhes to dry up the rheums and in the French diseases and generally for all other things that Bistort is good for and may be used for the same The distilled Water of Tormentil taken in a morning fasting is excellent against Venom or any contagion and is a good preservative in time of infection The Dose is two or three Ounces the same taken morning and evening cures all inward Ulcers in the Body stayeth the Fluxes of the Belly especially in the Dysentery or bloody Flux It doth comfort the brain heart and stomach liver and spleen as also the whole body and cureth most agues The best way to still the water is to steep the herb all night in Wine and then distill it Balneo Mariae The water thus distilled taken with some Venice Treacle and the party laid presently to sweat will certainly by Gods help expel any Venom or Poison the Plague Feaver c. For it is an ingredient of speciall respect in all Antidotes or Counterpoisons The powder of the dryed root made up with the white of an Egg in the form of a little cake and baked upon an hot Tile will stay all fluxes restrain all cholerick belchings and much vomiting with loathings in the stomach The Leaves and Roots being bruised and applyed dissolve all Knots Kernels and Hardnesse gathered about the Ears throat and Jawes and the Kings Evil. The same also easeth the pains of the Sciatica or Hipgout by straining the sharp humours that flow thereto the Juyce of the Leaves and roots used with a little Vinegar is a special remedy against running sores of the head or other parts scabs also and the itch or any such eruptions in the skin proceeding of salt and sharp humours The same also is effectual for the Piles or Hemorrhoids if they be washed and bathed therewith or with the distilled Water of the Herb or Roots It is found also helpful to dry up any sharp Rheum that distilleth from the head into the Eyes causing rednesse pain waterings Itchings or the like if a little prepared Tutia or white Amber be used with the distilled water hereof CHAP. XXXIX Of Cinckfoile The Names COme we next to Cinckfoile not only for the likeness of properties that is between it and Tormentill but of the outward face and form of the Plant as you shall hear hereafter It is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and in Latine Pentaphyllum Quinque-folium à numero foliorum in English Cinckfoil and Cinckfield and Five finger grasse or Five leaved Grasse The Kindes The sorts of Cinckfoile are very numerous an exact account whereof we shall not labour for those nine reckoned up by Gerard being sufficient for our present purpose 1. Great Cinckfoil 2. Common Cinckfoil 3. Purple Cinckfoil 4. Marish Cinckfoil 5. Stone Cinckfoil 6. Upright Cinckfoil 7. Wall Cinckfoil 8. Hoary Cinckfoil 9. Wood Cinckfoil The Form Common Cinckfoil spreadeth and creepeth far upon the ground with long slender strings like Strawberries which take Root again and shoot forth many Leaves made of five parts and sometimes of seaven dented about the edges and somewhat hard The stalks are slender leaning downwards and bear many small yellow Flowers thereon with some yellow threds in the middle standing about a smooth green head which when it is ripe is a little rough and containeth small brownish seeds The Root is of a blackish brown colour seldom so big as ones little finger but growing long with some threds thereat and by the small strings quickly spreading it self abroad The Places and Time The first groweth in Switzerland naturally and is nursed up in some of our â—ardens The second groweth by high-way-sides and in low and moyst Meadows The third groweth in the Woods of Clavena and Narbon The fourth in a Marish Ground adjoyning to the Land called Bourn Pondes half a mile from Colchester The fifth groweth upon Beestone Castle in Cheshire The sixth upon Brick and Stone-walls about London The seaventh on the Alps of Rhetia near Clavena The eighth in the hollowness of Peakish Mountains and dry gravelly Valleys The last groweth in Woods The Plants do flowre from the beginning of May to the end of June The Temperature The Roots of Cinckfoil especially the two last do vehemently dry and that in the third Degree but without biting for they have very little apparent heat of sharpness The Vertues Common Cinckfoil is held to be effectuall for all the purposes whereunto Bistort and Tormentill is applyed as well for preserving against venomous and infectious Creatures and Diseases in each respect as in keeping from putreâ—action for binding and restraining Fluxes either of blood or humours which are excessive especially bleeding at the Nose which it performeth if the juyce be drunk in Ale or red Wine or the Roots or Leaves applyed to the Nose Some hold that one Leaf cures a Quotidian three a Tertian and four a Quartan which is a meer whimsey but the truth is if you give a scruple of it which is twenty grains at a time either in White-wine or White-wine-Vinegar
also to the Navels of Children that stick forth it helpeth them The distilled water of the Herb is used by many as the more pleasing with a little Sugar for many of the samâ— effects Camerarius saith that it taketh away the pains of the teeth when â—ll other Remedies fail and that the thickened juyce made in Pills with the Powder of Gum-Tragacanth and Arabick being taken prevaileth much to help those that make a bloody water CHAP. XLV Of Golden-Rod The Names IT hath no Greek Name that I can learn In Latine it is called Aurea Virgâ— because the branches are like a Golden Rod. Anguillara thought it might bâ— the Leucographis of Pliny because it is said in the description thereof that â—t is found sometimes with white strakes in the Leaves but why Tabermontanus should take it to be Symphitum Petreum is not known In English Golden Rod. The Kindes All the sorts hereof that I can find are but three 1. The ordinary Golden Rod. 2. Arnold of Villa Nova or the new Town his Golden Rod. 3. Golden Rod of America The Forme The Golden Rod that is most common to our Country riseth up with brownish small round stalks about half a yard high or higher if it grow in a fat soil or in a Garden having thereon many narrowish and long dark green Leaves very seldom with any nicks or dents about the edges and as seldom with any strakes or white spots therein and yet sometimes and in some places they are so to be found divided at the tops into many small branches with divers small yellow Flowers on every one of them which are turned one way and being ripe do turn into down and are carryed away with the wind the Root consisteth of many small Fibres which grow not deep into the ground but abideth all the winter therein shooting forth new branches every year the old ones dying down to the ground The Places and Time The first groweth in divers places of this Land in the open places of Woods and Copses both in moyst and dry grounds but especially in Hampsteed-VVood near unto the Gate that leadeth out of the Wood unto a Village called Kentish-Town not far from London in a Wood by Rayleigh in Essex in Southfleet also and in Swanscombe-Wood near Gravesend The second is not so frequent yet that is found also in some places of Hampsteed-VVood though sparingly The last came from America as the Title shews The first flowreth later then the second which is about July and the other in the beginning or middle of August the last also flowreth very late The Temperature Golden Rod is hot and dry in the second Degree it cleanseth with a certain astriction or binding quality The Vertues This Herb is of especiall use in all Lotions for Sores or Ulcers in the mouth and throat or in the privy parts of Man or Woman The decoction thereof likewise helpeth to fasten the teeth that are loose in the Gums It is much commended also against the stone in the Reins and Kidneys and to provoke Urine in abundance whereby the gravel or stone engendered in the uritory parts by raw and tough flegmatick humours may be washed down into the bâ—adder from growing into a stone in those parts and thence may be avoided with the Urine the decoction of the Herb green or dry or the distilled water thereof is very effectuall for inward bruises as also to be outwardly applyed the same also stayeth bleedings in any part of the body and of wounds also and the Fluxes of the menstruall Courses in Women and the Fluxes of the belly and humours as also the bloody Flux in Man or Woman it is no lesse prevalent in all Ruptures or burstings to be both drunk and outwardly applyed it is the most soveraign wound-Hearb of many and can do as much therein as any both inwardly for wounds and hurts in the body and for either green wounds quickly to cure them or old sores and Ulcers that are hardly to be cured which often come by the Flux of moyst humours thereunto and hinder them from healing Gerard saith that the dry Herb that came from beyond the Seas was formerly sold for half a Crown an Ounce but since it was found to be so plentiful on Hampsteed-Heath and other places in England no man will give half a Crown for an hundred weight of it And here I may take an occasion as Gerrard doth to specifie the inconstancy and sudden mutability of the people of this Age who esteem no longer of any thing how precious soever it be then whilst it is strange and rare verifying that common Proverb Far fetcht and deâ—r bought is good for Ladies Neither are many Physicians to be justified in this particular who though they have found an approved Medicine and perfect Remedy near home against any Disease yet not contented with that they will seek for new farther off and by that means many times hurt more then help And this is one Reason that Mr. Culpepper inveighs I will not say how justly against the Colledge of Physitians who chuse rather to make use of forraign Plants then those of our own growing CHAP. LXVI Of Scurvy-grasse The Names FRom the mouth in generall let us come somewhat more particularly to speak of such Plants as serve to cure the Disease thereof called the SCVRVY One of the chief whereof is Scurvy-Grasse which is thought to have been unknown to the ancient Greek Writers because they name it not And though some imagine it to be Plinies Britannica yet Gerard and Parkinson who were curious compares of Simples are both of Opinion that it cannot be it The more modern Latine Writers call it Cochlearia from the similitude the Leaf hath with a Spoon being round as well as hollow It is called in English Scurvy-grasse and Scruby-grasse and sometimes though but seldom Spoon-wort after the Latine name The Kindes The Sorts hereof are foure 1. Common Scurvy-Grasse 2. The great Dutch or Garden Scurvy-Grasse 3. Small Dutch Scurvy-Grasse 4. The least Scurvy-Grasse The Forme The great Dutch or Garden Scurvy-Grasse which is most known and frequent in Gardens hath divers fresh green and almost round Leaves rising from the Root nothing so thick as the common sort yet in some places as in a rich strong dunged ground very large even twice so big as in others nothing at all dented about the edges and sometimes a little hollowed in the middle and round pointed of a sad green colour every one standing by it self upon a long foot-foot-stalk from among these rise up divers long slender weak stalks of about a foot in length thick beset on each side with small white Flowers at the tops of them which turn into small pods with little brownish Seeds the Root is white small and threddy the tast of it is somewhat bitterish The Places and Time The first groweth along by the Thâ—mes both on the Essex and Kentish shores so far as the brackish Sea-water commeth even
Jacobus à Manlijs Herba Pinnula in shops it is called Jusquiamus and Hyoscyamus in English Henbane because the Seeds are hurtful to Hens The Kindes The Sorts of Henbane are four 1 Common Henbane 2. White Henbane 3. Henbane of Candy 4. Henbane of Egypt .. The Forme Common Henbane hath very large thick soft woolly leaves lying upon the Ground much cut in or torn on the edges of a dark or evill grayish colour among which rise up divers thick and soft stalks about half a yard or two foot high spred into divers smaller branches with some lesser leaves on them and many hollow flowers scarce appearing above the Husks and usually torn on the one side ending in five round points growing one above another of a deadish yellow colour somewhat paler towards the Edges with many purplish veins therein and of a dark yellowish purple in the bottom of the flower with a small pointell of the same Colour in the middle each of them standing in a hard close husk which after the flower is past groweth like the a husk of Asarae Bacca and somewhat sharp at the top points wherein is contained much small seed very like Poppy seed but of a duskie grayish colour The root is great white and thick branching forth divers waies under ground so like a Parsnip Root but that it is not so white that it hath deceived divers The whole plant more then the root hath an heavy ill soporiferous smel somewhat oftensive The Places and Time The first is commonly growing by the way sides hedges and wall sides where Hogs frequent for out of theirs and such like Ordure it doth grow The second groweth by the Sea sides in Narbone in France near where the River Rhodanus runneth into the Sea The third groweth in Candy and in Spain also from whence the seed being sent groweth in our Gardens and so doth the last though their naturall place be both in Egypt and Syria They do all flower in July yet the strange kinds some what later and from their seed growing ripe and suffered to shed it springeth up again every year but the two last do scarce perfect their seed with Us. The Temperature White Henbane is cold in the third degree and the others in the fourth procuring drowsinesse and senselesseness of spirit by its stupifying and benumming quality The Signature and Vertues The Husk wherein the seed of Henbane is contained is in figure like to a Jaw Tooth and therefore the Oyl of it or the Juyce by it self or the Decoction of the root with Arsmart in vinegar being gargled warm in the mouth is very effectuall in easing the pains of the Teeth The leaves of Henbane do cool all hot Inflammations in the Eyes or any other part of the body and are to asswage all manner of Swellings of the Cods or Womens Breasts or elsewhere if they be boyled in Wine and applyed either themselvs or the Fomentation warm it also asswageth the pain of the Gout Sciatica and all other pains in the Joynts which arise from an hot cause And applyed with vinegar to the forehead and Temples helpeth the Headach and want of sleep in hot Feavers The Oyl of the Seed is helpful for the Deafnesse Noise and Worms in the Ears being dropped therein and the Juyce of the Herb or Root doth the same The Decoction of the Herb or Seed or both killeth Lice in Man and Beast the sume of the dryed Herb Stalks and Seed burned quickly healeth Swellings Chilblains or Kibes in the hands or feet by holding them in the smoak thereof being burnt which will also make Hens to fall down from their roosting place as though they were dead The white only is fit to be taken inwardly which is most available to many good purposes if it be wisely and conveniently applyed but the other sort are accounted dangerous and therefore not to be used inwardly unlesse in case of necessity when the white cannot be had But if at any time any one should wittingly or unwittingly take Henbane and be distempered thereby the Remedy is to drink Goats Milk Honyed Water or Pine kernels with sweet Wine or in the absence of these Fennel Seed Nettle Seed the Seed of Cresses Mustard or Radish as also Onyons or Garlick taken in Wine do all help to free them from danger and restore them to their right temper again Though the plant used as aforesaid be effectual for the Toothach yet I cannot commend the way of receiving the fume of the Seed into the mouth by holding it over a Chafingdish of Coales it being but a meer Cheat besides it may produce dangerous effects intoxicating the head and troubling the sight The root being eaten causeth great drought stoppage of Urine and many other Symptomes as you gather from the story Mr. Parkinson relates concerning a friend of his who eat the roots of Henbane instead of Parsneps to whose book I refer you CHAP. LIX Of Wild Tansey The Names BY what Name the ancient Botanists did call this Plant is altogether unknown but the later call it Argentina à foliorum argenteo splendore from the bright silver colour of the Leaves or rather as Gerard saith of the silver drops that are to be seen in the distilled water thereof when it is put into a Glasse which you shall easily see rouling and tumbling up and down in the bottom It is likewise called Potentilla ab eximiis viribus quibus pollet from its powerful operations of divers Agrimonia silvestris there being some likenesse between it and Agrimony Anserina because Geese love to feed upon it And Tanacetum sylvestre it differing little from the Garden Tansie but in colour In English it is called Wild Tansie and Silverweed whereof there is but one kind The Forme VVild Tansie creepeth upon the ground taking root at the joynts every where round about the place where it groweth that it will quickly take up a great compasse shooting forth sundry winged Leaves made of many set on both sides of a middle Rib some smaller being set amongst the greater somewhat like to Agrimony or Medesweet and likewise unto the ordinary Tansie of the Garden for it partaketh in form with them all and dented about the edges but of a fair green colour on the upper side and of a silver shining white colour underneath it beareth no stalk but the Flowers every one by it self stand upon a small short footstalk rising from the joynts with the Leaves which consist of five other small yellow round joynted Leaves very like unto those of Cinquefoile or five-leaved grasse the prime Root shooteth downwards like a Cinquefoile The Places and Time This Herb groweth most commonly in moyst places near the High-way-sides and sometimes in other places also so that it will be wanting to none that will use it And here I think good to observe that many other Plants also as Mugwort Vervein Mercury Knotgrasse Hounds-Tongue Pellitory of the wall c. which are most useful
shooting two or three branches almost of an equall bignesse which is sweet in tast and therefore much used to be eaten The Places and Time The first groweth in the Physick Garden in Oxford and divers other Gardens The second seaventh eleventh and twelfth grow also in England but I find not the particular place expressed The Peach-leafed Bell-flowre which is the last save one groweth in the Garden of my most honoured Friend John Cartwright Esquire at his Mannour of Aino on the Hill in Northamptonshire The last groweth plentifully between Selbury Hill and Beacon Hill in the way to Bathe The rest are strangers some of them growing in Candy others in Italy and some in Germany c. They flowre all the Summer long some abiding long and lasting untill in Autumn cold dewes do take them away others being sooner spent The Temperature The Roots of these are of a cold Temperature and somewhat binding yet scarce exceed the first Degree The Signature and Vertues The Roots and Leaves of Rampions being broken as I said before do send forth a very white milky Juyce which is an apparant Signature that they being so temperate are available for the engendring of store of Milk in Nurses Breasts which without controversie they do effectually procure The Roots of all the Sorts of Rampions and so likewise some of Bell-flowers especially if they have any greater Roots then the ordinary stringy ones are used for Sallets either â—old with Vinegar Oyl and Pepper or boyled and strewed with Butter or Oyl and some black or long Pepper cast on them either way or any way else they are familiar to the stomach stirring up the appetite and by reason of their temperate quality cause a good digestion The Roots beaten small and mixed with some Meal of Lupines cleanseth the skin from spots marks or other discolourings The distilled water of the whole Plants Roots and all performeth the same and maketh the place very splendent and clear Sure these useful Plants were not known to Mr. Culpepper to grow in England but he fearing them to be outlandish to which he was a professed Enemy very ignorantly omitted them when as he hath busied himself about those that are lesse useful This I wrote the rather because I would have you take notice of Rampions and endeavour to propagate them CHAP. XCVI Of Periwinckle The Names IT is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek because it bringeth forth stalks which creep like those of the Vine called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Daphnoidas because the Leaves are somewhat like though lesser then those of the Bay-Tree It is called also Clematis Daphnoides in Latine but it is most commonly known by the name of Vinca Pervinca both in Shops and else-where Pliny calleth it also Camaedaphne and Centunculus though there be other Plants to whom those names do more properly belong In English Pervinkle Peruinkle and Periwinckle The Kinds There be divers Sorts or Kinds of Periwinckle whereof some be greater others lesser some with white Flowers others Purple and double and some of a fair blew Sky Colour The Forme The common Sort of Periwinckle hath many Branches trailing or running upon the ground shooting out small Fibres at the Joynts as it runneth taking thereby hold in the ground and rooteth in divers places At the Joynts of these branches stand two small dark green shining Leaves somewhat like Bay-leaves but smaller as I said before and with them come also the Flowers one at a joynt standing upon a tender foot-Foot-stalk being somewhat long and hollow parted at the brims sometimes into four sometimes into five leaves of a pale blew coâ—our The Root is not much bigger then a Rush bushing in the ground and creeping with his Branches far about whereby it quickly possesseth a great compasse and is therefore most usually planted under hedges where it may have room to run up upon the sticks which it doth encompasse and bind over and over and is perhaps from thence called Vinca Per winca The Places and Time The first groweth on the north west side of St. Albans under an hedge encompassing a field sometimes in the occupation of Mr. Pollard and in Kingsland neer Paradise The other sorts are found only in the Gardens of those that are delighted with such pretty sorts of Varieties The flowers of them do flourish in March Aprill and May and oftentimes later The Temperature Periwinckle is somewhat hot but within the second Degree and likewise something dry and astringent The Vertues Perhaps it may seem very strange to many that I should appropriate this Plant to the Breasts for the breeding of Milk when as the greater part of Herbarists ascribe no such Vertue to it But to me it is sufficient that I have for my President that famous Herbarist Spigelius who in his second Book and fourth Chapter treating of those things that generate Milk saith There are also some Herbs as well hot as cold which although they breed little blood and are of small nourishment yet they cause great plenty of milk as Lettice Cabbage and Periwinckle which being boyled in water or the Broth of Meat doth recall the defect of Milk into the Breasts though they nourish little or nothing at all which actions they perform rather by an occult specifick vertue then any manifest quality The other properties that it hath are that it stayeth bleeding both at Mouth and Nose if some of the Leaves be chewed and the French do use it to stay their menstruall Courses Dioscorides Galen and Aegineta commend it against the Lasks and Fluxes of the Belly to be drunk with Wine and being chewed it easeth the pains of the Teeth It is likewise good against the biting of Adders being bruised and applyed to the place especially if the infusion thereof in Vinegar be taken inwardly Parkinson saith it is a tradition with many that a wreath made hereof and worn about the Legs defendeth them from the Cramp by which words he seemeth in my judgement to doubt of the truth thereof but indeed he needed not so to do for I knew a friend of mine who was very vehemently tormented with the Cramp for a long while which could be by no means eased till he had wrapped some of the Branches hereof about his Legs and other parts that we afflicted Mr. Culpepper writeth that Venus owns this Herb and saith That the Leaves eaten by Man and Wife together cause love which is a rare quality indeed if it be true CHAP. XCVII Of Lettuce The Names THe Garden Lettuce is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and of the Pythagoreans 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 In Latine Lactuea sativa à lactei succi copia from the plenty of Milk that it hath and causeth When the Leaves of this kind are curled or crompled it is called of Pliny Lactuca crispa and of Columella Lactuca Ceciliana in English curled or crumpled Lettuce The Cabbage Lettuce is commonly called Lactuca capitata and Lactuca sessilis
The four first sorts are usuall in Gardens the fift was found upon Mount Baldus as also upon the Vaganean hills in Narbone the sixth was found in Spaine by Boel The Seaventh in Itady by Dr. Mera The Eight came from Virginia The Ninth from Yorkeshire The Tenth grows under Hedges and Bushes almost every where the last in the Corne fields and in such as ly Ley and in the borders of other fields The Violets Flower in February and March and after them the Pansies till the end of July The Temperature The Garden Violets and so likewise the Wild kinds are cold and moist whil'st they are fresh and green The Vertues The Flowers of Violets as well as those of Borage are reckoned to be cheife Cordiall Flowers and are much used in Cordiall drinks powders and other Medicines especially where cooling Cordialls as Roses and Saunders are used They are used to coole any heate or distemperature of the Body either inwardly or outwardly in the Inflammation of the Eyes in the Womb and Fundament when they are fallen down and are full of paine Imposthums also and hot Swellings to drinke the decoction of the Leaves of Flowers made with Water or Wine or to apply them pultis wise to the place that is grieved It likewise easeth paines in the Head which are caused through want of sleep A dram of the dryed Leaves of the Flowers of Violets doth purge the body of Cholericke humors and asswageth the heat being taken in a draught of Wine or other drink The pouder of the Leaves of the purple Flowers only pickt and dryed and drunk in powder with Water is said to help the Quinsie and the Falling sicknesse in Children especially in the beginning of the Disease The Flowers of the white Violets ripen and dissolve Swellings The seed being taken resisteth the poyson of the Scorpion The Herb or Flowers whil'st they are fresh or the Flowers when they are dry are effectuall in the Pleurisy and all other diseases of the Lungs to lenify the sharpnesse of hot Rheums and the hoarsenesse of the Throat the heat also of the Urine and the sharpnesse thereof and all paines of the back or reines or bladder They are good also for the Liver and the Jaundise and in all hot Agues helping to coole the heat and quench thirst But the Syrup of Violets is of most use and of better effect being taken in some convenient Liquor and if a little of the Juice or Syrup of Lemons be put to it or a few drops of the Oyle of Vitriall it is made thereby the more powerfull to coole the heat and to quench the thirst and besides the effect giveth to the drink both a Claret Wine colour and a pleasant tast Violets taken or made up with honey do more clense then coole and with Sugar contrarywise The Leaves of Violets are used in cooling Plaisters Oyls Cataplasms or Pultises and are of great efficacy among other Herbs as Mercury Mallowes c. to be put in Clysters CHAP. CXXII Of Straw-berries The Names THe whole Plant is called Fragraria and the Berries Fraga à fructus fragrantia odoris gustus for it hath no certain Greek name yet there are some which think it to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that is Rubus Idaus because it hath no prickles which Opinion Fuchsius saith is not to be despised Others say that they called it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because of the â—ikeness of the fruit with that of the Tree-Strawberry Servius calleth them Mora terrestria Ground Mulberries because they are somewhat like those that grow on Trees The Kindes I have not yet met with any more then six sorts of Straw-berries 1. Red Straw-berries 2. White Straw-berries 3. Small Straw-berries with hard Leaves 4. Flat Straw-berries 5. Dwarf Straw-berries 6. Barren or unprofitable Straw-berries The Form I know not whether the Dwarf-Straw-berry be brought over in England yet I shall venter to give you so much of its Description as Parkinson hath set down choosing rather to give you the Description of a strange Plant then of the others which are so commonly known It hath very small triparted Leaves next the ground closer set together upon short foot-foot-stalks then any other and those that are set on both sides of the long branch not above four inches long which lyeth creeping on the ground grow lesse and without stalk the Flower standeth at the end of the Branch many times but one at a place which consisteth of five round Leaves like a Straw-berry but larger then agreeth with the proportion of the Plant and is of a yellowish colour what fruit it beareth is not set down The Places and Time The two first grow in Gardens though 't is probable they were brought out of the Woods where they do most delight yet being set in a rich soyl they become far greater The three next grow upon divers of the Alps and other places of Germany The last is to be found in our own Land in most Woods and the Field sides near unto them in Cornwall as Lobel saith and in other places also They flower in May or thereabouts most commonly and are ripe in June but I have seen ripe Straw-berries after Michaelmas also The Temperature The Leaves of them are cooling in the first Degree and yet some say they are hot and drying in the second the Root is more drying and binding the Berries whâ—â—e they are green are cold and dry but when they are ripe they are coâ—d and moyst The Vertues and Signature The water of the Berries carefully distilled is a soveraign remedy and Cordiall in the paâ—pitations of the heart that is the panting and beating of the heart and is good for the over-flowing of the Gall which causeth the yeâ—â—ow Jaundise The Berries themselves are exâ—eâ—ent good to cool the Liver tâ—e Bâ—ood and Spleen or an hot choâ—eriâ—k sâ—omach to refresh and comfort the â—ainting Spirits and to quench thirst They are good also for other Inflammations yet it 〈…〉 veth one to be caâ—telous or rather to refrain them in a Feaver 〈◊〉 by theâ— putriâ—ying in the â—â—omaâ—h they increase the Fits and make them to be 〈…〉 ore fierâ—e The Leaves and Roots boyled in Wine and Water as drunk do likewiâ—e cooâ— the Liver and Blood and asswage al Inflammations in the Reins and Bladder provoketh Urine and allayeth the heat and sharpness thereof the same also beinâ— drunk stayeth the Bloody Flux and Womens Coâ—â—es and helpeth the swelâ—ings of the Spâ—een The Juyce dropped into foul Ulcers or they washed therewith or with the decoction of the Herb and Root doth wonderfully cleanse them and heâ—p to cure them All Lotions and Gargles that are made for sore mouths or Ulcers therein or in the privy parts or else-where are made with the Leaves and Roots heâ—eof which is good also to fasten loose Teeth and to heal spungy foul â—ums The same also helpeth to stay Catarrhs or Defluxions of Rheum into the Mouth Throat Teeth
or the powder thereof dryed is good for moist Ulcers and sores in the legs or other parts to dry them and thereby to cause them to heale the more speedily it is no lesse effectuall also in green wounds to be used upon any occasion Iack by the Hedge is eaten of many Country people as Sawce to their Salt-fish and helpeth well to digest the crudities and other corrupt humors that are engendered by the eating thereof it warmeth also the Stomack and causeth digestion The juyce thereof boyled with Honey is held to be as good as Hedge-Mustard for the Cough to help to cut and expectorate flegme that is tough and hard to rise The seed bruised and boyled in wine is a good remedy for the wind Collick or for the stone being drunk warm the same also given to women that are troubled with the mother both to drink and the seed put in a Cloth and applyed while it is warme is of singular good use The Leaves also or seed boyled is good to be put in glisters to ease the paines of the stone the green leaves are held to be good to heale the Ulcers of the Legs CHAP. CXXXII Of Burnet The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or as Gesuer hath it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 by Nicolaus Myrepsus besides whom there is not any Greek Author that is known to have mentioned it by that name Divers of good judgment do refer it to the Sideritis Secunda of Dioscorides Some call it in Latin Pimpinella Pampinula and Peponella from the likenesse of the scent with that of Cucumbers yet others referr these names to the Saxifrage kinds of Burnet which are â—â—belliferous plants It is called Sorbastrolla and Sang 〈…〉 aria also of divers but most usually Sanguisorba quod Sanguineos fluxus sistat because it stops fluxes of blood and it may be Bipinella or Bipenula because the leaves stand one against another like wings It is to be observed that Pimpinella Burnet and Pimpernell are different plants though some have Ignorantly taken them for the same The Kinds There are as I take it but Four of these sorts of Burnet 1. Common Burnet 2. The Ordinary great Burnet 3. Unsavory Burnet 4. Burnet of Canada or Great Burnet of America The Form The Ordinary Burnet groweth with many long winged Leaves Spread upon the ground which consist of divers small roundish Leaves green on the upper side and grayish underneath finely dented about the Edges set on each side of a middle ribe amongst which rise up crested brown stalkes a foot high or better with some smaller Leaves set in some places thereon devided into sundry branches and at the tops small round loose heads or knaps upon long foot-foot-stalks of a brownish colour from whence start forth small purpâ—â—sh Flowers and after them cornered seed the root is small Long and Blackish-brown on the out side growing down deep into the ground with some fibres thereat the Herb hath a fine quick scent and tast The Places and Time The First groweth wild in most places of this Land in dry sandy ground but is usually preserved in gardens to be ready at hand when it shall need to be used The Second is to be found in divers Countries of this Land eâ—pecially in Huntingdon and Northamptonshires in the meadows there as also near London by Pancras Church in two or three fields nigh unto Boobies barn as also by a Causie side in the middle of a field by Paddâ—ngton The Third was found in Spain as Bauhinus saith The Last was brought from Canada which lyes as I take it on the North part of Virgâ—nia where it is naturall and is to be seen growing in the Phyâ—ick Gardens so often mentioned They all Flower about the end of June and the beginning of July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature Both the greater and the Lesser Burnet are accounted to be of one property but the lesser because it is quicker and more aromaticall is more effectuall being both hot and dry in the second degree especially the lesser yet some say that it is cold in the second degree The Vertues Burnet is a friend to the Heart Liver and other principall parts of a mans body two or three of the stalks with Leaves put into a Cup of Wine especially French Wine as all know give a wonderfull fine relish to it and beâ—â—des is a great meanes to quicken the Spirits refresh the heart and make it merry driving away Melancholy It is a speciall help to defend the heart from noisom Vapours and from the infection of the Plague or Pestilence and all other contagious diseases for which purpose it is of great effect the juyce thereof being taken in some drink and the party either laid to sweat thereupon or wrapped and kept very warm It hath a drying and astringent quality also whereby it is available in all manner of fluxes of blood or humors to staunch bleeding either inward or outward Laskes or Scowrings the bloody flix womens too abundant Courses and the Whites also the cholerick belchings and castings of the stomack and is also a Singular good wound-herb for all sorts of wounds both of the head body either inward or outward for all old Ulcers or running Cancers and moist sores which are of hard curation to be used either by the juyce or the decoction of the Herb or by the powder of the Herb or Root or the water of the distilled Herb or else made into oile or ointment by it self or with other things to be kept the Seed also is no lesse effectuall both to stay fluxes and to dry up moist sores to be taken in powder inwardly in steeled Water or wine or the powder of the seed mixed with their Oyntments or injections CHAP. CXXXIII Of Avens The Names THis Herb is not found to be known of any Greek Writer and therefore the Greek name is not to be expected nor of the ancient Latines unlesse it be Geum of Plâ—ny as by good probability it seemeth It is generally called in Latine now a dayes Caryophyllata and Garyophyllata from the scent of the Root so near resembling Cloves which are called Caryâ—phylli yet some have called it Herba benedicta of the excellent or blessed quaâ—ities thereof and others Sanamunda from the like effects Tragus would have it called his Nardus agrestis not only for the sweet scent of the Roots but the Cordiall properties thereof In English Avens and Herb-Bennet The Kinds The former Age knew but two sorts of Avens but ours hath found out seaven at the least 1. Ordinary Avens 2. Mountain Avens 3. Small Mountain Avens 4. The other small Mountain Avens 5. Purple Mountain or Marsh Avens 6. Another Marsh Avens 7. Cinquefoile Avens The Forme Our ordinary Avens hath many long rough dark green winged Leaves rising from the Root every one made of many Leaves set on each sides of the middle Rib the three largest whereof grow
Convolvulus marinâ—â— in English Sea-Bind-weed and Sea-With-wind because the branches are winding the Flowers like to the small Bind-weed and it groweth naturally upon the Sea-Coasts It is called also Sea-bells the Flowers being like Bells and some call it Seafole-foot for the likenesse of its Leaves and those of Coltsfoot and Scottish Scurvy-grasse because they use it in steed thereof The Kindes To this kind it will not be amisse to referre these three sorts 1. Soldanella or Sea-bind-weed 2. The greater Soldanella or Sea-bind-weed 3. The greater Mountaine Soldanella The Forme Sea-bind-weed hath many slender brownish green branches trailing and lying upon the ground beset with small round Leaves not much unlike those of Asara bacca but smaller betwixt which Leaves groweth somtimes one and somtimes two at a Joynt At the stalkes come forth Flowers growing but one in a place of a perfect Bell-fashion and of a bright red Carnation colour much like unto those of the small Bind-weed whereof it is a kind only it is a little larger the Seeds is black and groweth in round huskes the Root is small and long spreading it selfe a little way and then rising up againe as the other Bind-weeds do Any part thereof being broken sendeth forth a whitish water of a bitter salt and unpleasant tast which the Leaves also have The Place and Time The First groweth plentifully upon the Sea Coasts both in England and elsewhere especially neere unto Lee in Essex at Mersey in the same County in most places of the Isles of Thanet and Sheppie and in many places along the Northern Coast The Second groweth both wild in desart places and is received into Gardens also in Syria according to Ranwolfius and is to be found upon the Coasts of Naples according to Imperatus the last groweth on the Snowy Hills of Hungary as Clusius saith and upon the Mountaines of Wales not farre from Cowmers meare in North-Wales as Gerard saith The two first flower in June and their seed is ripe in August the last flowreth not till July upon the cold Mountaines but sooner in those Gardens where it is nursed up The Temperature Soldanella is hot and dry in the second degree being of a bitter taste and consequently of an astringent quaâ—itie The Vertues There is not a better herb in the World for the Dropsy then Soldanella which the shops call Brâ—ssicâ— marina or the Sea-Cole wort though very improperly as I have said and because there is another Plant to which that name coth particularly belong for being taken inwardly it is very powerfull in purging down all kind of waterish and Phlegmatiâ—k humors which are the cause of a Dropsy Doscorides and others write that it is an enemy to the Stomack and therefore advise that it be boyâ—ed in the broth of fat meat and drunk to hinder the strength of its working and they say also that it is dangerous for those that have not strong bodyes but though that wrought so vio ently which grew in their Câ—imate yet that which we use in England is a most safe Medicine and may be given to Children and weake Persons Howsoever it is usually given in the broth of a Cock with Raâ—sins and Annâ—seeds in Powder and Pills with Cinamon Ginger Anniseeds Mastick or Sugar as also with Rubarb and Cubebs for Rubarb is counted an excellent conâ—oâ—t for it The juice also not pressed but issâ—ing forth of its own accord when it is broken gathered and dryed and afterwards reâ—ented or made soft and laid as a Pâ—ainer to the bottome of the belly draweth forth watery Hydropick-humours by seâ—ge And least theâ—e two uâ—es should not be sufficient it hath alâ—o an excellent property not only to open the obstructions of the Lâ—ver but to strengthen the same also The Powder of the Leaves mixed with Cinamon Ginger and Sugar is an excellent remedy against the Wormes The Leaves may be eaten after the manner of Scurvy-Grasse to purge the belly The Powder of the Herb is of very good use to bring or raise up flesh in ceep and hollow Ulcers heâ—ping also to heale thâ—m The Mountaine-Soldanella is good to conâ—oâ—iâ—ate Wounds and heâ—p the Sciatâ—ca and â—out CHAP. CLXXXXI Of Bryony The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Vâ—tis alba and Vâ—talba not that it is a Vine but because it is somwhat like one as also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying to put â—orth becauâ—e it putteth forth many branches whiâ—h câ—amber â—pon the adjoyning bushes growing by them it is likewise called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 becauâ—e formerly â—ome uâ—ed the â—eeds or graines to get off Haire growing in thoâ—e places it should not In Latine of some Vâ—tâ—cella of others Rorastrum Apiastâ—llum and Uva Tamâ—n a but of most Vâ—tis alba and Bryonia in English Bryony White-Bryony Whâ—te-VVild-Vine the Grapes or Berries that grow thereon being called Teâ—ter-berries because they are effectual to kill Tetters The black Bryony is called Sâ—gillum Sancta Maria out Ladies Signet The Kinds Though there be but two sorts hereof growing naturally in England yet I find there be others of this kind growing beyond the Seas 1. Common White Bryony or Wild Vine 2. Common White Bryony with black-Berries 3. Black Bryony with black-fruit in Clusters 4. Candy White Bryony with double Berries 5. Black Bryony with single red Berries 6. Common black Bryony or our Ladies Signet The Form The Common White Briony bringeth forth divers long and tender Stalkes with many clasping tendrells by which it catcheth hold and clambereth on those things which are next it The Leaves are broad and somwhat rough divided after the same manner as those of the ordinary Vine are but more hairy and whiter of colour The flowers be small and white growing many together towards the tops of the branches consisting of five small Leaves a peece laid open like a starre the Berries which succeed them grow in little Clusters but not so neere one to another as Grapes do greene at first but red when they be ripe The Root somtimes groweth to the bignesse of a Child of a yeare old so that it hath been by some cut into the forme of a Man and called a Mandrake being set againe into the Earth It is of a white yellowish colour extreame bitter and altogether of an unpleasant tast The Places and Time The first groweth on bankes under hedges and somtimes as a Weed amongst Pot-herbs The second in Germany Bohemia c The third is mentioned by Dioscorides and others but its place is not certainly known The Fourth in Creet The fift in Germany by a Village named Huningen The last in very many places in our own Land in Hedg-rowes and Coppices They flower in May or thereabouts and bring forth their ripe berries in Autumne yet those of Germany and Candy are not so forward as ours and seldome bring their berries to ripenesse in our Countrey The Temperature VVhite Bryony which is of greatest use is
and spreading many waies under ground if it stand long the whole Plant is more pleasant to the sight then to the smell The Places and Time The naturall places of the sorts aforementioned are in divers parts both of Germany and Italy and that with the white flower about Frank-ford yet they grow with us in our Gardens as in the Physick Gardens at Oxford and that at Westminster and in the Gardens of divers others that are delighted with rarities of this Nature They flower in June and July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature The Root of Fraxinella or the false white Dittany is hot and dry in the second degree it is of a wasting attennating and opening faculty The Vertues A dram or two of the powder of the roots of Fraxinella taken in wine or broth is very much commended against the Strangury provoketh Urine breaketh the Stone in the Bladder and driveth it forth and so doth the seed taken in the quantity of a dram The same are very effectuall to open obstructions to bring down Womens Courses and to clense that which is soule and contagious It is also a very great preservative both against Poyson and the Venome of Serpents and other Poysonfull Creatures and against the Pestilence and other contagious diseases and is good to kill the Wormes of the belly It warmeth and cleanseth the matrix expelleth the dead Child and After-birth if the part be fumigated with it and Penniroyall or taken in Wine it easeth the paines or torments in the inward parts or bowells and healeth inward hurts and wounds it is much commended against the Epilepsy or falling sicknesse and other cold griefes of the head and braines and is held to be of great use against the French disease to use it with the decoction of Guaiâ—â—m or Pock-wood The Leaves and the juice thereof taken after the same sort worketh the same effects though not so powerfully and being applyed outvvardly it dravveth Thornes and Splinters out of the flesh CHAP. CCXLI. Of Allheale The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Panaces or Panax because it is a Panacaea or remedy for many diseases which names are in use also amongst the Latins Some call it Panax Herculeum supposing Hercules to be the first founder of it but others would rather have it Panax Heracleum from Heraclea a Citty in Candy and though the name Panaxris referred to many pâ—ants as Origanum Sylvestre Centaurium magnum c. yet to this onely 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 It is called in English Hercules Allheale and Hercules Wound wort and Allheale simply The Kindes To this Kind may be referred these seaven sorts 1. Ordinary Allheale of Hercules 2. The true Allheale of Hercules 3. American Allheale of Hercules supposed to be the true Laserwort with shining Leaves 4. Costus-like All-heale 5. The Hungarian Allheale of Hercules 6. The Cluster berry Allheale of America 7. Sweet sented Allheale of America The Forme Hercules Wound-wort spreadeth many large winged Leaves round about upon the ground most of them two foot long consisting of four five or six couples of rough winged Leaves set one against another on a round great foot-foot-stalk furrowed on the upper side each of them likewise consisting of three or four couple of rough but large faire fresh yellowish green Leaves and one at the end all of them finely dented about the Edges tasting a little hot and biting and yeilding forth a yellowish juyce in the Summer called Opopanax much more gummy hot and bitter then the Leaves from which riseth a strong great round green stalk four or five foot high or more with some joynts and Leaves thereat and a few branches towards the top breaking forth into small yellow umbells of flowers which afterward give whitish yellow flat short seed The root is somewhat great and groweth deep into the ground The Places and Time The first is thought to grow in some Places of Italy but I am sure it did grow in the Physick Garden at Oxford and doth still if I be not mistaken as also at the Physick Garden at Westminister and in some other Gardens The second groweth in Naples as Matthiolus saith on the Apennine-hills also and the Sea Coasts by Siena The third came from America is the name of it importeth The fourth as Matthiolus saith groweth on Mount Garganus in Apulia The fifth in Tartaria and Hungaria The two last in America They all flower and seed in the end of Summer The Temperature The juyce or Gum which is of greatest use is hot in the third degree and dry in the second being of a heating mollifying and digesting quality the bark of the root is heating and drying likewise but in a meaner degree having withall a little cleansing property The Vertues The juyce or Gum of Allheale which it is called in shops and of many writters also Opopanax being drunk in honeyed Water or Wine helpeth tâ—e Itchings and sores in the Bladder and is good for the Strangury also and difficuâ—ty in making water It is endued with a speciall property also to purge thick and clammy Phlegme from the more remote parts as the Braine Nerves sensitive parts joynts and breasts and therefore it is profitable for any cold dâ—sease incident to any of those parts as in the Palsy weaknesse of sight old Cough shortnesse of breath Sciaticâ— and in other kinds of Gout It is good for Convulsions and Cramps as also against Windinesse in the Sides Belly Womb or in any other places and therefore it helpeth Stitches the hardnesse of the Spleene the strangling of the Mother bringeth down VVomens Courses and brings away also the Mola or Lumpe of flesh bred in the Womb. It expelleth wormes helpeth the biting of a â—ad Dâ—gge and is good against the poyson of other venemous Creatures Dissolved in Wine and given it helps the Dropsy and taken in Vinegar one hour before the Fit cometh it takes away the cold Fit of an Ague eâ—pecially if some of it be dissolved with the juyce of Smallage and Oyle of Dill and the ridge of the back annointed therewith It is good after falls and bruises to dissolve any congealed blood eâ—pecially in Cold bodies and where no Feaver is Being dissolved wiâ—h Vinegar the juyce of Smallage applyed to the Region of the Spleen softeneth the hardness of it a plaisterg made thereof dissolveth the Kings-Evâ—ll and hard Nodes of the Joynts as also any Plague sore botch or Bile especially being dissolved in Vinegar applyed with the pulp of Raisins in the Sun it eaâ—eth any kind of Gout If the mouth be washed with a decoction of Vinegar made with it it easeth the paine in the Teeth or if it be a hollow tooth let it be stopped with a peece Some commend it against the dimnesse of sight being mixed with other things It is very availeable to cure old Ulcers and Fistulaes and to breed good flesh especially where the bones are bare
the pain of the breast and the decoction of the Bark in water being drunk is good against pissing in Bed The Bark boyled in water till it be black and thick with Rye meal and Honey added thereunto is available to consume the dead flesh which keepeth wounds oftentimes from healing and cureth the Cankers being applyed The Leaves are good to make Lotions to gargle and wash the mouth and throat as often as they are troubled with swellings sores or Kernels and to stay the distillations of Rhewme into the eyes or other parts as also to coole the heat and inflammation of them and to ease hot pains of the Head the Forehead and Temples being bathed therewith The distilled water of the green Berries is also used for the same effects and so is the water that is distilled from the Flowers only The Mosse that groweth on the Black Thorn draweth Prickles and Thorns out of the Flesh and this it may be said to performe by the Signature which is represented by the Thornes growing on the Bush CHAP. CCLXI Of the Bramble The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Batus in Latine Rubus and Sentis and also Veâ—res whereof Ovid maketh mention speaking how the Hare hides himselfe from the Dogs therein after this manner Aut lepori qui vepre latens â—â—stilia cernit Ora canum Of divers it is called Cynosbatus but not properly saith one for Cynosbatus is generally taken for the wild Rose though there be divers that would have the wild Rose to be Cynâ—rrhodos and this Cynosbatus and this is most consonant to Reason It is called by us in English the Bramble or the Black-Berri-bush and the fruit Black-Berries which the Greeks call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which some have made Vatina in Latine id est Mora Rubi they are called in Shops Mora bali and of some Mora bassi The Kindes All the sorts that are referred hereunto are nine 1. the common Bramble oâ— Black-berry-Bush 2. the small lower ground Bramble 3. sweet mountaine Bramble or Raspis 4. the Dew-berry or Winberry 5. the stony Bramble or rock Raspis 6. our English Knot-berry 7. the Welsh Knot-berry or Lancashire Cloud-berry 8. the Knot-berry of Norway 9. another Knot-berry of Norway The Formes The common Bramble shooteth forth many ribbed branches of a very great length yea so long sometimes that they by reason of their weakness also bend to the ground and sometimes take root againe all thick set with sharp and crooked thorns with leaves likewise growing upon long and prickly foot-Foot-stalks by three and three together which are hard as it were crumpled having smal pricks under the midle ribb of a dark green colour above and grayish underneath which seldome fall away till the extremity of the Winter be past as the Country-Men do observe and the new be ready to succeed them the flowers come forth very plentifully at the end of the branches consisting of five whitish leaves dasht with a little carnation with small threds in the midle which giveth place to the fruit standing every one at some little distance and is made up of severall small graines set together somewhat like unto the Raspis or Mul-berry of a perfect black color and sweet tast when they be ripe but till then they are first green and then reddish harsh and very unpleasant the root groweth to be very great and full of knots The Places and Time The first groweth in every hedge almost the second by hedges and wood-sides and sometimes amongst the ploughed lands in divers parts of this Land the third groweth on hills and in high grounds the fourth is frequent in Cheshire Yorkâ—shire and Lancashire the fift in the rocky and stony places of Huntingdon and Nottinghamshire and in divers parts of Kent and the Islle of Thanet the sixth upon Ingleborough Hill which is one of the highest Hills in England vea so high that it seemeth at least to touch the clouds and therefore some call the fruit thereof Cloudberryes as they do the next whose places may be discovered by their names as the two last may also be They all flower about July and their berries are ripe in September or thereabouts The Temperature The Buds Leaves flowers fruit and root of the Bramble are all of a great binding quality especially the unripe fruit and that more when they have been kept a while then when they are fresh The Vertues and Signature The flowers and unripe fruit of the Bramble are of very great use and prosâ— also for those that are vexed with the bloody-flux Lask and weaknessâ— of the parts coming by either of them which is signified both by the colour of the berries when they are red and also by the crooked thorns which will cause the blood to follow no otherwise then the Exulceration of the Gâ—â—s which accompanieth the bloâ—dy flâ—x and by the same signature it helpeth the spitting of bloâ—d if the decoction thereof be drunk The Bâ—ds Leaves and Branches whilst they are green are of good use in the Ulcers and pâ—â—rid sores of the Mouth and Throat and for the Qâ—insy and likewise to heal other fresh wounds and sores The decoction or powder of the Root being â—â—ken is good to break or drive forth Gravell and the Stone in the Reines and Kidneys The Leaves as well dry as green are good to make Lotions both for sores of the Moâ—th and also of the secret parts The decoction of them and of the dryed branches do much bind the Belly and are good for the too much flowing of Womens Courses The Berries or the Flowers are a powerfull remedy against the poysâ—n of the most venemous Serpents and to help the sores of the Fundament and the Piles whereof they may be said to have the Signature The juyce of them boyled with honey is very good against all hot Ulcers and swellings of the mouth Gâ—â—s Uvula or Palate and Almonds of the â—hroat The said juyce mixed with the juyce of Mulberries do bind more effectually and help fretting and eating sorâ—s and Ulcers wheresoever The same being taken alone or mixed with Hypecistis and Honey is a remedy for Heart burning as some call it which is a gnawing of the Stomack through Choller as also for the Passions of the heart and faintings The distilled Water of the Branches Leaves and Flowers or of the fruit is very pleasant both to the smell and tast and may be given to those that are in hâ—t Feavers and other distemperature of heat in the Body as in the Head Eyes Liver Hands c. and also for the purposes aforesaid The Leaves boyled in Lye and the head washed therewith doth not only allay the itching thereof but the mattering and running sores also and maketh the hair to become black The powder of the Leaves strewed upon Cancrous or running Ulcers are very effectuall for the healing of them The condensate juyce of the Leaves as also of the Berries may be kept all
to dry without any manifest sharpnesse or heat The Vertues And whosoever shall drink the seed of Flix weed in Wine or the Water of a Smiths Forge wherein Iron and Steel have been often quenched shall find by experience that it hath not its name for nothing for it is of excellent use to stop the bloody Flix the Lask and all other Issues of blood The Herb it self boyled in either of the said liquors and drunk performeth the like effects no lesse powerfully then Plantain or Comfry as also to consolidate Bones that are either broken or out of joynt The jâ—yce thereof drunk in Wine or the Decoction of the Herb drunk doth kill the Wormes in the Stomack or Belly and the Worms which sometimes breed in putrid and filthy Ulcers The said Herb being bruised or the juyce thereof being put into Oyntments and Salves doth quickly heal all sores how soul or malignant soever they be and therefore it would be taken into especiall notice by those good people who delight in curing the Wounds and Maladies of their Neighbours There may be also a Syrupe made hereof which is admirable good to be used inwardly when any of the former occasions shall require The distilled Water of the Herb is not altogether so effectuall for the purposes aforesaid yet for those whose Pallates will not brook any of the former Medicines this may be taken it being a little clearer and therefore more acceptable CHAP. CCLXV. Of the Pilewort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Chelidonium minus in Latine for what reason I know not it being like unto the Chelidonium majus or greater Celandine neither in nature or forme It is called also Hirundinaria minor as some have supposed because it springeth when Swallows come in and withereth at their going away but this is true in neither for it flowrisheth long before their comming and departeth presently after But the names of Ficaria and Scrophularia minor are more propper unto it because the Roots not only re-resemble those kernels of the Fundament called the Piles and those hard swellings that sometimes sease upon the neck and other parts but is very powerfull to cure them In English it is usually known by the name of Pilewort as it ought to be yet it hath been also called the lesser Celandine and Figwort from the Latine names The Forme Pilewort or Celandine the lesse groweth with many pale round green leaves spread as it were upon the ground by reason of their weak and trailing branches whereon they are set of a fat smooth and somewhat shining aspect marked in some places though not often with black spots from amongst which rise up divers small yellow flowers consisting of nine or ten very narrow Leaves upon their slender foot-foot-stalks somewhat like unto those of Crow-foot as the seed also is it being set upon a head after the same manner The Root is composed of divers small kernels of the bignesse of wheat Corne or bigger hanging to the body by a smal string or fiber and having another such a string at the end also all which are of a whitish colour The Places and Time It groweth in most parts of this Land that are not ploughed up if they be any thing addicted to moisture or overshaddowed either with Walls or Trees as in Meadowes and Pastures by Highway sideâ— by Ditches Wall sides Hedges Trenches c. It commeth forth about the beginning of March and flowreth not long after it beginneth to fade in April and is so far gone in May that the Roots thereof can scarcely be found therefore be sure you look for it in its due season The Temperature Though Pilewort have not that acrimony and sharpnesse which Dioscorides and Galen affirm to be in theirs yet those that have succeeded them do agree that howsoever it hath the properties thereof The Vertues and Signature The most profound Crollius in his Book of Signatures hath observed that Pilewort hath the perfect Signature of the Hemorrhoides or Piles or such like excrescences that appear in or about the Fundament and therefore he saith that not only the decoction being drunk is a profitable remedy for the said evill accidents but being hung about the neck so that it may lye against the Mouth of the Stomack it performeth the same and so it doth being made up into an oyl Oyntment or Salve as also helpeth the kernels about the eares and throat called the Kings Evill or any other hard Wens or Tumors as Mr. Culpeper saith he proved upon his owne Daughter which had the Kings Evill and delivereth it for an extraordinary secret The juyce taken from the Roots and put into the Nose purgeth the head and the decoction thereof with a little Honâ—y put into it and gargled in the Mouth doth the same effectually and doth purge and cleanse the breast of phlegme or any other tough humours that do offend It also helpeth a running Itch and those Nailes of the Fingers and Toes that grow deformed and scabbed The Piles themselves being bathed with the juyce mixed with the Patients Urine or with Wine draweth them together and dryeth them up and taketh the pain quite away The distilled water of the Leaves and Flowers that have the spots and marks upon them is an admirable remedy to cleanse the Faces of those are tanned freckled or otherwise accidentally spotted and this it doth by Signature as the aforesaid Crollius hath also recorded CHAP. CCLXVI. Of Water-Betony The Names IT is called in Latine for the Greek name is no where expressed Betonica Aquatica and Aquatilis most commonly yet there be that call it Ocymastâ—um majus Clymenon and Scrophularia the likenesse of the Plants causing the interposition of Names as being mistaken one for another And so likewise in English some have called it Brownwort which is the same with Scrophularia or Figgewort but usually it is called Water-Betony and of some Bishops-Leaves and Brook-Betony The Kindes The sorts hereof are quickly reckoned up for they are but two 1 The greater Water-Betony 2 The lesser Water-Betony The Forme The greater Water-Betony which is most common riseth up somewhat like Figwort but many times higher with square hard greenish stalks and sometimes brown set with such like dark broad green Leaves so very like unto those of Figwort that they have been often mistaken one for another being also dented about the edges but with rounder notches by the diligent observance whereof they may be distinguished in that respect somewhat resembling the Wood-Betony Leaves yet of a larger Sise and two for the most part set at a joynt At the tops of the branches and likewise at the joynts where the Leaves coâ—e out from the middle of the Stalke upwards come forth many round bellyed Flowers which being fully blown are open at the brims yet divided into two parts so the uppermost is like a hood and the lowermost like a lip hanging down of a darke red colour which passing
Belly downwards provoketh Womens Courses as well as Vrine and encreaseth both Milke and Seed one Ounce of Cicers two Ounces of French Barly and an handfull of Marsh mallow Roots washed clean and sliced being boyled in the broth of a Chicken and foure Ounces taken in a morning without eating any thing within two hours after is a good remedy for a pain in the Sides CHAP. CCLXXII Of Rocket The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Euzomon ob gratiam non ob suavitatem in jure obsoniis condiendis for its savory not for its sweet tast in seasoning Meat and Broth and Eruca in Latin quia velicando Linguam quasi erodat because if it be eaten alone raw it is so corrosive that it will make the tongue barne which is no token of sweetnesse which commonly accompanyes temperate things but of much heat and strength The Kinds There are thirteen severall sorts of Rocket mentioned by Authors 1 Roman Garden Rocket with white seed 2 Great Garden Rocket 3 Great Rocket of America 4 The more Common wild Rocket 5 Small ill smelling wild Rocket 6 Small wild Rocket of Mompelier 7 Small hoary wild Rocket 8 Blew flowred Rocket 9 Narrow leafed wild Rocket 10 English Sea Rocket 11 Candy Sea Rocket 12 Square Codded Rocket 13 Italian Sea Rocket The Formes The more common Wild Rocket is most effectuall for the present purpose and therefore omitting the Description of those that be before it I shall only describe that it hath long narrow and very much divided Leavs with slender cuts and gashes or jags on both sides of the middle rib of a sad overworne green colour when it groweth on the ground but when it groweth upon high wals as I have often seen it they are of a fresh though somewhat dark green colour from amongst which rise up divers stiffe Stalks about a foot high sometimes set with the like Leaves but smaller and smaller as they grow neerer to the top branched from the middle into divers lesser stalks bearing sundry yellow Flowers on them made of foure Leavs a peece as the others are which afterward yeeld small reddish seed in little long pods of a bitter and hot biting tast somewhat like unto that Milke which is burnt too as they call it and so are the Leaves The Root is small but somewhat woody enduring divers years if I mistake not The Places and Time The two first have been Inhabitants of the Garden so long that their naturall places are forgotten the third came from that part of America called Canada the fourth groweth very plentifully about the Abbey of St Albans on every side upon the Wals thereof and divers other Wals thereabouts that are of any standing it being either the nature of the Mortar thereabouts to produce it or else the seeds are carried upon them by the wind or rather by Birds some of the other grow with us also but divers of them belong to others Countreys so that we have them not unlesse it be in the Gardens of some that are curious they flower about June and July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature Rocket is hot and dry in the third degree and therefore it is seldome eaten alone unlesse it be in some cases The Vertues All the sorts of Rocket but especially the wild kind which I have described are very effectuall to quicken and stir up Nature where it is dull or not sufficiently active for generatiâ—n upon which account it was very famous in Virgils time who in his Poem called Moretum maketh mention of it in these Words Et Venerem revccans Eruca morantem and is so likewise amongst the modern Italians who call it Rocket gentle by which Epithite some understand any thing that maketh one quick and ready to jest lasciviously as this herb doth yet some will have it to be so called because it is more pleasant and gentle in tast then the wild kind which is more strong and efficacious it serveth also to helpe digestion and provoketh Vrine exceedingly the herb boyled or stewed and some Sugar put thereto helpeth the Cough in Children being often taken the Seed moveth to Venus as much or more then the Herb and is also good against the biting of the Shrew Mouse and other venemous Creatures and it expelleth the Worms out of the Body being taken in drinke it doth away the ill scent of the Armâ—pts encreaseth Milke in Nurses and wasteth the Spleene being mixed with Honey and applyed it cleanseth the skin from Spots Morphew and other discolourings thereof and used with Vinegar it taketh away Freckles and rednesse in the Face and other parts and with the gall of an Oxe it amendeth foul Scars blacke and blew Spots and the marks of the small Pocks The roots boyled in Water and then stamped and applyed helpeth any griefe that cometh of Ruptures Splinters Fractures or unplacing of joynts The Leaves are fittest to be eaten with Lettice Purslaine and such like Sallet herbes to take away the coldnesse of them for being eaten alone they heat too much and cause the Headach CHAP. CCLXXIII Of Mustard The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Napy by Aristophanes and others that use the Attick Dialect but more commonly 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sinapi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is offensive to Eyes making them water if any one be too busie with it It is also called in Latin Sinapi and Sinapis in imitation of the Greek in English Senvie but most commonly Mustard The Kinds To this Kind six sorts may properly be referred 1 Ordinary Mustard 2 Broad leafed Mustard 2 Small wild Mustard 4 Small Mustard of Mompelâ—r 5 Wild Mustard of Naples 6 Sea Mustard of Egypt The Forme The ordinary Mustard groweth up with many long rough Leaves jagged with uneven and unorderly gashes somewhat like a Turnep but a great deale lesser of an overworn greene colour and sharpe taste from whence ariseth up a stalk two or three foot high which divideth it selfe into severall branches whereon doe grow divers pale yellow Flowers in a great length together which turne into small and long Pods wherein is contained blackish seed inclining to rednesse of a fiery sharpe tast much exceeding that of the Leaves the Root is tough and white running deepe into the ground with many small Fibres thereat perishing yearly yet if it be suffered to shed the seed from thence it will sow it selfe without any more adoe The Places and Time The first though it be sowne by divers for their private uses in their Gardens and Oâ—chards yet the same is found wild also abroad in many places especially in Gâ—ocisteâ—shire about Tâ—wxbury where they grind it and make it up into ballâ— which are brought to London and other remote places as being the best that the world affords The second groweth in Gardens only But the third is found in the borders of fields and also in the low rills
following sorts 1. Common Medow Trefoile with Purple Flowers 2. White flowred Medow Trefoile 3. Heart Trefoile or spotted Snaile Trefoile 4. Smooth upright narrow leafed Birds foot Trefoile 5. Great codded Trefoile 6. Small codded Trefoile 7. Roundheaded Trefoile 8. Green flowred Trefoile 9. Strawberry or Bladder Trefoile 10. Hop Trefoile 11. Little yellow Trefoile 12. The great Purple Trefoile 13 Knotted Trefoile 14. White Dwarfe Trefoile 15. Burgundy Trefoile or Medick Fodder 16. Yellow-horn Trefoile 17. Smooth Starry Trefoile 18. Marish Trefoile or Buckes Beans 19. Purplewort or Purplegrasse called in Latine Quadrifolium fuscum being as it seems rather a four leafed then a three leafed grasse The Forme Medow Trefoile shooteth up stalks about an handful long and sometimes longer round and somewhat hairy yet for the most part leaning towards the ground whereon grow Leaves consisting of three joined together one standing a little from another of which those that are next the ground and roots are rounder and those which grow higher are longer having for the most part in the midst a white spot like an half Moon from amongst which rise up stalkes of Flowers somewhat longer then the Leaves bearing many deep Purple Crimson flowers together in a tuft rising smaller up to the top which turn into little cods with small seed in them the root spreadeth much and endureth long The Places and Time The two first grow more frequently in Medowes then any of the rest yet there be others that grow there also some in one Countrey and some in another The third groweth in a Field between Longford and Bow as also beyond Southwarke in the right way from London to Croyden and the parts adjacent The eighth in Mr. Stonehouse his Orchard at Darfield The seventeenth groweth in divers Fenny and Moorish places The last groweth in divers Countrey Gardens as well as in the Gardens of the curious who also entertain divers of the other sorts They flower and flourish from May to August The Temperature Medow Trefoile both Leaves and Flowers are thought by some to be câ—oling and binding but others thinke them to be of a digesting and sâ—ppurating quality and there is no doubt but the rest do in some sort follow the Temperature of this The Vertues and Signature The Decoâ—tion of Medow Trefoile with its Flowers Seeds and Roots taken for some time helpeth Women that are troubled with the Whites and consequently the extraordinary over-flowing of their ordinary courses it being more then probable that what is availeable for the fiâ—st is profitable for the second because the first is harder to be cured The Decoction of the Leaves and Fâ—owers having some Honey put thereto and used in a Clyster easeth the fretting paines of the Guts and bringeth forth tough and slimy humors that cleave to the Guts The said Leaves boyled with a little Barrowes grease and used as a Pultis taketh away hot swellings and Inflammations The juice especially of that which is spotted upon the Leaves being strained and dropped into the Eyes or mixed with a little Honey and applyed is a familiar Medicine with divers to take away the Pin and Web as they call it in the Eyes by Signature and so it ceaseth the pain and Inflammation of them when they are bloud-shotten The said Juice is also held to be very available against the biting of an Adder being drank the herbe also being boiled in Water and the place washed with the decoction and then some of the herbe laid to the hurt place also and so is the herbe boiled in Swines grease and made into an oyntment The herbe also bruised and heated between two Tiles and applyed hot to the Share causeth them to make Water who had it stopped before It is held likewise to be good for wounds and to take away Scarres The Burgundy Trefoile called also Foenum Burgundiacum Burgundy Hay and Meddick Fodder is conceived by divers to be that which Dioscorides commends for its cooling property as also that whose Oyle as Aâ—icen saith is very effectuall against the trembling of the Heart An Oyle drawn out from the Seed as it is done from Almonds is said to be good for the Stone In those Countreys where it groweth plentifully it is found so powerfull to fatten Cattle that they are faine to be stinted lest they should grow so fat that suffocation shâ—uld ensue If the March Trefoile be the Isopyrum of Dioscorides as some suppose it to be then the Seed thereof is good against the Cough and other griefes of the Breast or Chest for as Galen saith it cleanseth and cutteth tough and grosse humors and maketh them the easier to be expectorate or spit forth it is also good to purge and cleanse the Liver and to help those that spit blood The Leaves of Purplewort stamped and the Juice given in drinke is very confidently administred and that with good successe not onely to Children but to others also that have the disease called in English the Purples which it doth by Signature And if the Heart Trefolle were used it would be found to be a great strengthner of the Heart and cherisher of the Vitall Spirits relieving the body against Faintings and Swoonings fortifying it against Poysons Pestilence and defending the Heart against the noisome vapors of the Spleen for it resembleth the heart both in forme and colour and surely it hath no so eminent Signatures for nothing CHAP. CCXCIX Of Moneywort The Names IT is called in Latine for Greek name it hath none that I can meet with in any Author Nummularia of the round forme of the Leafe somewhat like unto Money and Serpentaria because it is reported that if Serpents be hurt or wounded they doe recover themselves with this herbe Fuschsius calleth it Centummorbia from its wonderfull efficacy in healing Vlcers and green wounds and Tabermontanus would have it named Hirundinaria because as Swallowes doe usually fly close to the ground so this Plant cleaveth close to the Earth It is called in English Herb two pence Two-penny grasse but usually Money-wort The Kindes Though Moneywort seemeth to be of different sorts because it groweth to be of severall sizes yet that is to be impated to the fertility or â—â—â—rility of the soile they enjoy howsoever there be two sorts thereof 1. Common Moneywort 2. Small Moneywort with purplish Flowers The Forme The Common Moneywort sendeth forth divers long weak and slender branches lying and running upon the ground set with two Leaves at each joynt opposite one to another at equall distances which are almost as round as a penny but that they are a little pointed at the ends smooth and of yellowish green colour at the joynts with the Leaves from the middle forward come forth at the joynts sometimes one and sometimes two yellow flowers standing each upon a small footstalâ—e being composed of five narrow leaves pointed at the ends with some yellow threds in the middle which being past there stand in their places small round heads
of joynts a cubit high or thereabouts with two Leaves at every joynt and branches likewise from both sides the Stalks with fresh green Leaves somewhat broad and long withall about the bignesse of the Leaves of Basil finely dented about the edges In the Male at the joynts towards the tops of the Stalks and Branches come forth two small round green Heads standing together upon a short foot-stalk which growing ripe are the Seeds not having any Flower In the Female the Stalk is longer spike-fashion set round about with small green Husks which are the Flowers made like small branches of Grapes which give no Seed but abide long upon the Stalks without shedding The Root is composed of many small Fibres perishing every Winter rising again the next year of its own sowing if the seed of the male be permitted to shed and so the ground will be for ever furnished with both sorts of it for they both rise from the Seed of the Male in the same manner as Hemp and could not be distinguished one from another but by their Seed and Flowers The Places and Time The French Mercury groweth as well wild in divers places of the English Dominions as by a Village called Brookland in Rumney Marsh in Kent and by the Sea-side in the Isle of Wight as in Gardens where it is sometimes sown The Dogs-Mercury groweth by the Hedge-sides in most places of this Land also the Female being not so frequent as the Male but the Childs or Childing-Mercury groweth wild about Mompelier in France and in Spain and Italy and is a Sojourner in some of our Gardens They all flourish and seed in the Summer save the Childes Mercury which flowreth so late with us that it hardly beareth ripe Seed The Temperature Mercury is hot and dry yet not above the second degree it hath a cleansing faculty and a digesting quality also as Galen saith The Vertues Hipocrates whose skill in Physick was incomparable as appears by his learned Aphorismes doth very much commend the use of the French Mercury for Womens diseases for if it be applyed to the Secret parts by way of fomentation it easeth the pains of the Mother and if the Decoction thereof be used it procureth the Terms and expelleth the After-birth as also for the Stangury and diseases of the Reines and Bladder the decoction thereof with Myrrhe or Pepper being taken inwardly or the Leaves applyed outwardly or both He used it also for sore and watring Eys and for Deafness and pains in the Ears by dropping the juyce thereof into them and bathing them afterwards in White Wine The decoction of the Leaves or the juyce of them taken in broth or drink with as much Sugar put to it as will sweeten it purgeth cholerick and watrish Humours The decoction thereof made with Water and a Cock chicken is a most safe Medicine for the hot fits of the Ague â—t also cleanseth the Breast and Lungs of Phlegm but a little offendeth the Stomach The juyce or distilled water thereof snuffed up into the Nostrils purgeth the Head and Eyes of Catarrhes and Rheums Two or three ounces of the distilled water with a litle Sugar put to it and drunk in the morning fasting is used by some as a good Medicine to open and purge the Body of grosse viscous mâ—lancholy humours Matthiolus saith that both the Seed of the Male and Flowers of Female Mercury boyled with Wormwood and drunk cureth the Yellow Jaundise in a speedy manner The Leaves or the Juyce rubbed upon Warts taketh them away The Juyce mingled with some Vinegar helpeth all running Scabs Tetters Ringworms and the Itch. Being applyed in manner of a Pultis to any Swelling or Inflammation it digesteth and spendeth the humours which were the cause thereof and so helpeth it It is frequently used with other things to evacuate the Belly from offensive humours being given in a Clister Though Dog-mercury he less used because it is more common yet it may serve to purge waterish and melancholy Humours in the same manner as the former and also for other the said uses It is said of Childing Mercury that if the Male thereof be taken by a Woman three dayes together after conception and that her Courses be past she shall bring forth a Male Child but if she take of the Female it shall be a Girle and the same is said of the French Mercury but my Wife never tryed either of them CHAP. CCCXIV Of Madder The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Etruthrodanum and Eruthedanum from the red colour of the root and Rubia Tinctorum in Latine because Dyers make use thereof to colour Wooll as Leather-dressers also do to colour their Leather which is the name that the Shops use also yet Nicander calleth it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Schyrium in Greek and others call it Rubâ—a in Latin without any addition The Kindes There be six kindes of Madder growing in our ownd Land 1. Red Madder commonly called Garden Madder 2. Wild Madder 3. Wild Madder with long Leaves 4. Sea Madder 5. Dwarf Madder 6. Little field Madder The Forme The manured or Garden Madder shooteth forth many Stalks which stand upright at their first coming up and so likewise if they be kept cut but if they be permitted to grow they become long weak and trailing upon the ground a great way unlesse they grow by some hedge and then they will climb thereon being four-square very rough and full of Joynts at every of which come forth divers long and somewhat narrow Leaves standing about the Stalks somewhat like the râ—well of a Spuâ— being very rough also neer unto the tops whereof do come forth many small pale yellow Flowers after which come small round heads green at the first and reddish afterward but black when they are ripe wherein are contained the Seed The Root is not so great as long creeping very far as well downwards as about the surface of the Earth fat full of substance and of a red and very clear colour whilst it is fresh The Places and Time The first though it be commonly manured for the great profit that is made thereof yet it groweth wild not onely upon S. Vincents Rock neer Bristoll and in the Hedges about Ruthland in Wales the second is natural also to some parts of this Land and so is the third which groweth in divers places of Dorset-shire the fourth groweth likewise in our own Country so do the two last They flower in June and July chiefly and the Seed of all of them is ripe in August or thereabout except the Sea kind which seldom perfecteth its Seed with us The Temperature Madder roots are hot in the second degree and dry in the third and have an opening quality and also an astringent property The Vertues and Signature The Decoction of Madder made in Wine and drunk doth not onely bring down the Courses in Women and provoke Vrine but bringeth away the
resisteth putrefaction and digesteth them exceedingly yet it being so hot and dry is altogether unapt for consolidating or healing them The said powder mixed with Cream or the green Leaves boiled in Cream and annointed on the heads of Children which have Scabbs running or dry Sores cleanseth them throughly and healeth them as also Saint Anthonies fire The fresh Leaves bruised and laid upon running and fretting Cancers and the like as Tetters Ring-wormes c. killeth and destroyeth them The powder of the Leaves mixed with Honey taketh away all Spots and Freckles from the Face or Body being applyed thereunto and so it helpeth the Blisters of the Yard that are gotten by dealing with unclean Women after they have been bathed with the Decoction of the Leaves as the Powder of the Leaves being strewed thereupon doth also Being given to Horses or other Cattle in their drink it is effectuall for the Botts and the smoak thereof burned cureth Hens that have gotten the Pippe The distilled Water thereof helpeth those that have the Worms and is effectual also for them that have a giddinesse in their Braines The same doth cleanse the Skin from Spots and Markes and other deformities therein CHAP. CCCXX Of the Birch-tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Semuda by Theophrastus by others 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Semus and Semos in Latine Betula and sometimes Betulla from the old Verbe Batuo signifying to beate because it was and is often used for that purpose The Forme The Birch Tree groweth in many places to be a goodly tall streight tree fraught with many boughs other slender branches bending downwards the elder being covered with a discoloured rough chapped barke but those that are younger are browner by much having under them another fine white thin rinde or barke The Leaves at their first breaking out are crumpled but afterwards they become somewhat smoother not much unlike those of the Beech-Tree but smaller and greener with dents about the Edges It beareth small and short Catkins somewhat like to those of the Hasel Nut tree which abide on the branches a long time wherein the seed is contained but at length falls to the ground The Places and Time Though the Birch Tree grow frequently in some Countries yet in others it is very rare as is in some parts of Oxford and Northampton-shires where they are set in Gardens as rarities as in the Garden of my much honoured Friend John Cartwright Esquire at his house in Aino I remember once as I rid through little Brickhill in Buckingham-shire which is a Town standing upon London Road between Dunstable and Stony Stratford every Signe-post in the town almost was bedecked with green Birch so that in that Countrey it seems to be very plentiful The Catkins come forth in Aprill and the Leaves soon after but the Seed is not ripe untill September The Temperature The Leaves of the Birch Tree are thought to be cooling but the Barke and Catkins are hot The Signature and Vertues The inner barke of the Birch-tree saith the said Crollius whom I quoted in the Chapter immediately going before hath the Signature of the Matrix with the bloudy veines thereof and therefore the decoction thereof provoketh Womens Courses expelleth the After-birth and carrieth away all manner of superfluity from the Wombe The juyce of the Leaves while they are young or the distilled Water of them or the Water that cometh out of the Tree being bored with an Auger taken either before or after it is distilled againe is held to be very availeable to break the Stone in the Kidneyes or Bladder and is also good to wash sore mouthes for which purposes a Lye made of the inner barke of the Birch-tree is likewise effectuall The civill uses whereunto the Birch-tree serveth are many as for the punishment of Children both at home and at School for it hath an admirable influence upon them to quiet them when they are out of Order and therefore some call it Make-peace The old Roman Magistrates had it born in bundles before them as an Ensigne and Instrument of Justice to be executed upon petty Offenders it is used also to Hoop Caskes binde Fagots make Besomes c. Having thus dispatched these Simples which are appropriated to the Wombe I passe on now to those that are availeable for Ruptures which Disease is caused by the breaking or loosening of the Rim or Filme of the Belly so that the Guts fall into the Cods It happeneth most commonly to young Children and those of the Male-kinde yet sometimes Females and elder persons are troubled therewith so that it will be very requisite to speak of some particular Plants that are very effectuall for this purpose CHAP. CCCXXI. Of Rupturewort The Names IT is uncertaine whether any of the ancient Greek Writers knew this herbe because we have no Greek name left for it that we can affirm to be the true and therefore I shall wave it It is called in Latine Polygonum minus by Matthiolus and Castor Durantes Herba Cancri minor by Cordus in his Scholiastes and Millegrana in his History of Plants Epipactis by Anguillara Herba Turca by Lobel and Casalpinus but the name which is best known and most used by the Writers of this present age is Herniaria being so called from its efficacy in curing the Rupture called Hernia It is also called in English Rupture-wort or Burstwort because it cureth those that are bursten The Kindes Though some joyn the sorts of Rupture-wort with those of Knot-grasse whereof they are kindes yet for their names and vertues sakes we have reserved them for this Chapter and there be four sorts of them 1. Common Rupture-wort 2. The greater Rupture-wort of Africa 3. Rupture-wort with longer Leaves 4. Indian Rupture-wort The Forme Common-Rupturewort groweth with very many threddy branches spread round upon the ground about a span long divided into many other smaller parts full of small joynts set very thick together whereat come forth two very small Leaves of a fresh green colour as the Branches also are whereat there do grow forth also a number of exceeding small yellowish flowers scarce to be discerned from the Stalks and Leaves which turn into Seeds as small as dust The Root is long and small thrusting down deep into the ground the tast hereof is scarce perceivable at the first yet after a while a little astringent taste without any manifest heat yet a little bitter and sharp withall may be perceived therein The Places and Time The first groweth in many places of our own Land as well as in others in dry barren grounds where it will be small and in the moister places also but not boggy or moorish that are not shadowed and is for its usefulnesse brought into Physick-Gardens of the greatest note the second groweth in Africa neer Tunis the third in the dry chaâ—k or stony grounds of Kent and other Countreys the fourth in America as
cut-in on the edges and of a strong sweet scent growing some near the ground and some by couples upon stalks The Flowers grow at certain distances with two small Leaves at the Joynts under them somewhat like unto the Flowers of Sage but smaller and of a very whitish or black blew Colour the Seed is brownish and somewhat flat or not so round as the wild the Roots are blackish and spread not far and perish after the Seed-time it is most usuall to save it for the Seed seldom riseth of its own shedding The Place and Time The first is planted only in Gardens and so is the second in the Western parts of Europe both on this side and beyond the Alps by the judgement of the best Authours The third was brought by Paludanus into these parts out of Syria The fourth is wilde in many places of Germany The fifth is wilde in our Country upon dry banks almost every where and by the way sides The sixth Clusius first found in the Meadows near Sopronium in Hungary The seventh was sent out of Italy and it is likely is originally of that Country The eighth grew with Clusius of the Seed he received out of Spain but yet as he saith he found it likewise near the riding place at Greenwich The ninth groweth in Hungary almost every where in their Vineyards and by the way sides The tenth grew of the Seed which was sent out of Candy The eleventh both at Mompelâ—er and in Candy The twelfth throughout Hungary in great plenty and in Austria and in many other places The last as Dioscorides saith on Mount Ida in Phrygia and Messenia but of late dayes gathered from some of the Hills of Greece and Illyria that are near the Sea I have seen Colus Jovis c. Jupiters distaffe and the Aethiopian Clary grow both in the Physick Garden at Oxford and that at Westminster The Temperature and Vertues Clary is hot and dry in the third Degree The Seed thereof but especially the wilde sort called Oculus Christ of its effects from helping the Diseases of the Eys is used to be put into the Eys to clear them from any Moats or other such like things as are gotten within the Lids to offend them as also to cleanse them of all filthy and putrified matters wherewith the Eys are wont to be infested and to take away white and red spots out of them If the Seed be finely powdered searsed and mixed with Honey and applyed to the Eys it taketh away the dimness of them The mucilage of the Seed of either sort made with water and applyed to Tumours or Swellings disperseth and taketh them away and also draweth forth Splinters Thorns or other things gotten into the flesh The Leaves used with Vineger either by it self or with a little Honey doth help hot Inflammations as also Biles Felons and hot Inflammations gathered by their pains if it be applyed before they are grown too great The Powder of the dryed Leaves put into the Nose provoketh sneesing and thereby purgeth the Head and Brains of much Rheum and corruption It provoketh to Venery either the Seed or Leaves taken in Wine It is in much use to help to strengthen the Reins either used by it self or with other Herbs that conduce to the same effect and in Tansies often or the fresh Leaves fryed in Butter being first dipped in a Batter of Flower Eggs and a little Milk served as a dish to the Table is not unpleasant to any but especially profitable to those Men or Women that have weak backs It is used in Italy to be given for Women that are batten through a cold and moyst disposition to heat and dry up that moysture and to help them to be fruitful it helpeth the Stomack oppressed with cold flegme and purgeth the Head of Rheum and much corruption but the over-much use hereof offendeth the Head and is hurtful for the Brain and memory It bringeth down Womens desired sickness and expelleth the Secondine or after-birth Yellow Clary or Jupiters Distaffe is hot and drying and the juyce of it is of speciall good use to cleanse and heal foul Ulcers The Aethiopian Clary is commended for the roughness of the Throat and to help to expectorate the rotten and purulent matter in the Plurisie or in other Coughs either the Decoction of the Root drunk or made into an Electuary with Honey Dioscorides saith also that it is good for those which are troubled with the Sciatica The Leaves of wild Clary are good to be put into Pottage and Broth amongst other Herbs for they scatter congealed blood warm the stomack and help the dimness of the Eyes CHAP. XXIV Of Hawk-weed The Names THis is the last Plant that I shall treat of as appropriated to the Eyes and it is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Accipiter an Hawk because Hawks are said to sharpen their Eyes with the Juyce of this Herb and for the same Reason it is called Hawk-weed in English In Latine it is called Hieracium and Accipitrina Gaza calleth it Porcellia It is called also Lampuca and by some Hypochaeris and Hyoseris The Kinds Parkinson who thinketh that such a multitude of Varieties in form pertaining to one Herb is not to be found again in Rerum natura divideth the Hawk-weeds into nine Ranks which with the particulars comprehended under every one of them would if only named make this Chapter extend its limits I shall content my self only with those I find mentioned in the Phytologia Britannica which I conceive to be the usuallest sorts growing within these Dominions and they are 1. Rough Hawk-weed or yellow Succory for all of them are numbered amongst the Succories by some 2. Dandelyon Hawk-weed 3. Succory Hawk-weed 4. Endive Hawk-weed 5. Rough Mountain Hawk-weed 6. Long rooted Hawk-weed 7. Great Hawk-weed 8. Hares Lettice or little Hawk-weed yellow Devills bit 9. Little Mountain Hawk-weed 10. Black Hawk-weed with more cut Leaves The Forme Hawk-weed hath divers Leaves of no great size lying on the ground much rent or torn on the sides into many gashes somewhat like unto Dandelyon from among which ariseth a hollow rough stalk of about half a yard or two foot high at the most that ever I saw oranched from the middle upward wherein are set at every Joynt â—esser Leaves but not so much indented as the former bearing at their top sundry pale yellow Flowers consisting of many small narrow Leaves broad pointed and nicked in at the ends set in a double Roe or more the â—â—er most being larger then the inner which form most of the Hawk-weeds do hold which turn into Down and with the small brownish Seeds is blown away with the winde The Root is long and white with many small fibres thereat The whole Plant is full of bitter milk The Places and Time The kind of Herbs do grow in untilled places near unto the borders of Corn-fields in Meadows High-wayes Woods Mountains and
hath a thick short knobbed Root blackish without and somewhat reddish within a little crooked or writhed together of an harsh or astringent tast with divers blackish Fibres growing thereat from whence spring up every year divers Leaves standing upon long foot-stalks being somewhat long and broad very like unto a Dock-Leaf and a little pointed at the ends but that it is crumpled of a blewish green colour on the upper side and of an Ash colour gray and a little Purplish underneath having divers veins therein from among which arise divers small and slender stalks about half a yard high almost naked and without Leaves or with very few narrow ones bearing a spiky bush of pale flesh coloured Flowers which being past there abideth small Seed somewhat like unto Sorrel-Seed but greater The Places and Time The two first grow at the foot of Hills and in shadowy moyst Woods near unto them in many places of Germany and in our Country likewise in moyst and watery places particularly in a Meadow about a stones throw above the Abby Mill at St. Albans about an Acres breadth or somewhat more from the River side where the common Bistort groweth plentifully though it be chiefly nourished in Gardens The fourth groweth in VVestmerland about Crosby in Cumberland about Ravenswaith in York-shire Lancashire and divers other places The third groweth on the high Hills in Silesia and other places The two last are round on the Alps in divers places and the last also amongst the Switzers They all flower about the end of May and the Seed is ripe about the beginning of July The Temperature Bistort is cold and dry in the third Degree and very astringent The Signature and Vertues This Plant hath a double Signature both proceeding from the Roots the one from the colour of the inside of them the other from the writhed or twisted form The bloody colour of the Roots betokeneth that it is effectuall to stay the bleeding of the Nose and all manner of inward bleeding and spitting of blood as also any Fluxes of the body in man or woman and likewise vomiting the Powder of the Root in Wine or the decoction thereof being drunk The juyce hereof being put up into the Nose prevaileth much against the Diâ—ease called Polypus and all other Sores or Cancers that happen in the Nose or any other part but the surest way is first to wash them with the distilled water and afterwards to apply the Powder of the Root thereto It is good also to fasten the Gums and to take away the heat and Inflammation that happen as well in the Jawes Almonds of the Throat or Mouth if the decoction of the Roots Leaves or Seeds be used or the juyce of them The Root of Bistort Pellitory of Spain and burnt Allome of each a like quantity beaten small and made into a Past with Honey a little peece thereof put into an hollow Tooth or holden between the teeth if they be not hollow stayeth the defluxions of Rheum upon them when it is the cause of their pain and helpeth to cleanse the Head and void much offensive matter The wreathed form of the Root is a sign that is good against the bitings of Serpents or Snakes for which it is found to be very effectuall as also for the venoming of Toads Spiders Adders or the like venomous Creatures if the place be washed with the water that is distilled from the Root and Leaves A dram of the powdered Root taken in drink expelleth the Venom of the Plague the small Pox Measels Purples or any other infectious Disease driving it forth by sweating The Powder of the Root or the decoction thereof being drunk is very available against Ruptures or burstings or all bruises or falls whatsoever dissolving the congealed blood and easing the pains that happen thereupon The said decoction being made with Wine and drunk hindereth abortion that is when Women are apt to miscarry in Child-bearing the Leaves kill worms in Children and is a great help to them that cannot keep their water if some juyce of Plantain be put thereto which applyed outwardly doth give much help in the Gonorrhaea or running of the Reins A dram of the Powder of the Root taken in the water thereof wherein some red hot Iron or Steel hath been quenched is also an admirable help thereto so as the body be first prepared and purged from the offensive humours The Leaves Seeds or Roots are all very good in Decoctions Drinks or Lotions for invard or outward wounds or other sores and the Powder strewed upon any Cut or Wound in a vein stayeth the immoderate bleeding thereof The Decoction of the Roots in water whereupon some Pomegranate Pills and Flowers are added injected into the Matrix stayeth the access of humours to the Ulcers thereof and bringeth it to its right place being fallen down and stayeth the immoderate Flux of the Courses The Roots are most used in Physick and will keep good a year or two The Dose in Powder is from a scruple to a dram into Decoction from a drachm to two or three which is made by bruising a sufficient quantity of the root suppose two drachms and boyling it in half a pint of Posâ—et drink till about half be consumed then strain it and give the clearest to be drunk in a morning CHAP. XXXVIII Of Tormentil The Names THough none of the Greek writers have mentioned this herb yet it hath got a Greek name and is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Septem et 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 folium that is Seven-leaves but not properly it being only one leaf cut into seven divisions For there is a general rule in all Leaves whether of herbs or trees that that which falleth away with the stalk and not in parts and at several times is the leaf though it be winged as that of the Ash Elder Walnut tree c. the great Centory Agrimony Danewort Parsnep Valerian c. is or divided as Trefoil Cinquefoil or Tormentil c. is It is called in Latine Tormentilla quia valet adversus tormenta intestinorum from its vertue in easing the torments of the Guts and Heptaphyllum or Septifolium and of some Stellaria from the form of the leaves though that be a name applyed to other plants of the like form In English Tormentil Setfoil or Seven-leaves The Kinds Formerly there was but one sort of Tormentill known but now there are three 1. Common Tormentil 2. The greater Tormentil 3. Silver leafed Tormentil The Forme The common Tormentil hath many reddish slender weak branches rising from the root lying upon the ground or rather leaning then standing upright with many short leaves that stand closer to the stalks as the Cinkfoil doth which this is otherwise somewhat like with the footstalks encompassing the Branches in several places but they that grow next the ground are set upon longer footstalks each whereof are like the leaves of Cinkfoil but somewhat longer and lesser
you shall seldom misâ—e the Cure of an Ague in three fits be it what it will even to admiration as Mr. Culpepper affirmeth The juyce hereof drunk about four Ounces at a time for certain dayes together cureth the Quinsie and the yellow Jaundice and taken for thirty dayes together cureth the Falling-Sickness The Roots boyled in milk and drunk is a most effectuall Remedy for all Fluxes either in Man or Woman whether the whites reds or Bloody Flux The Roots boyled in Vinegar and the decoction thereof held in the mouth easeth the pains of the Tooth-ach The juyce or decoction taken with a little Honey helpeth the hoarsness of the Throat and is good for the Cough of the Lungs The distilled water of the Roots and Leaves is also effectuall to all the purposes aforesaid and if the hands be often washed therein and suffered every time to dry of it self without wiping it will in short time help the Palsie or shaking of them CHAP. XL. Of Sow-bread The Names THis Plant is the last that I shall treat of in relation to the Nose The Greek Names of it are 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 It was called by the first Name 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Circulo because both the Leaf and the Root are of a circular or round Figure by the later 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it was used to kill Fishes It is called in Latine Tuber terrae Terrae rapum because of its knobby Tur-nep-like Root and Umbilicus terrâ— because as the Navill of a Mans Body strutteth out a little above the Belly so this sometimes above the Earth of some Orbicularis of others Palalia Rapum porcinum malum Terrae In Shops Cyclamen Panis Porcinus Artanita In English Sowbread or Swine-bread because the Swine love it and feed upon it in those Countries where it is plentiful The kinds Parkinson in former book hath reckoned up a dozen sorts or more hereof the want whereof will constrain me to content my self only with the mentioning of three which are 1. Common round Sow-bread 2. Ivy-Sow-bread 3. A strange Plant sent for a bastard Sow-bread of the Spring The Forme The common kind of Sow-bread hath many green and round leaves like unto Asarabacca saving that the upper part of the Leaves are mixed here and there confusedly with white spots and under the Leaves next the ground of a purple colour amongst which rise up little stems like the stalks of Violets beaâ—ing at the top small purple or murrey coloured Flowers which turn themselves backwards of a small scent or savour or none at all which being past there succeed little round knops or heads that contain slender brown seeds these knops are wrapped after a few dayes in the small stalks as thred about a bottom where it remaineth so defended from the in jury of the winter close upon the ground covered also with the green Leaves aforesaid by which means it is kept from the frost even from the time of his seeding which is in September untill June at what time the leaves do faâ—e away the stalks and seed remaining bare and naked whereby it enjoyeth the Sun the sooner to bring them to maturity the Root is round like a Turnep black without and white within with many small strings annexed thereunto The Places and Time The first groweth plentifully about Artois and Vermandois in France and in the Forrest of Arden The second which is the best of all in many places of Italy The third on the Pyrenaean Hills Gerard saith that he hath heard that Sow-bread groweth on the Mountains in Wales on the Hills of Lincolnshire and Somersetshire which I never heard of from any but him who had it but from another and therefore I believe the relator was mistaken it being not so much as mentioned in the Catalogue of British Plants notwithstanding it is frequent in Gardens and is nursed up there more for its Flower then any thing else because it is in its prime when most others are decayed for it flowreth in September and afterwards when the Plant is without Leaf which do afterwards spring up continuing green all winter covering and keeping warm the Seed unto Midsummer next at what time the Seed is ripe The third flowreth in the Spring and therefore it is called Cyclamen vernum or Sow-bread of the Spring The Temperature Although Mesue doth determine the Degrees hereof to be hot and dry in the beginning of the third yet Galen doth not so but saith only 70. Simplicium that it cutteth cleanseth and openeth the mouthes of the Veins draweth and digesteth which is plainly seen by the particular operations thereof The Vertues and Signature Matthiolus saith that the distilled water from the Roots of Sow-bread snuffed up into the Nostrils stayeth their bleeding wonderfully and that if six Ounces of that water be drunk wich an Ounce of fine Sugar it will stay the blood that commeth from the breast stomach or Liver in a wonderful manner or if any Vein be broken in them It purgeth somewhat violently and therefore it is fit as he saith to mix therewith some Mastick or Nutmeg or a scruple of Rubarb by the use whereof many have been holpen of the hardness and swelling of the spleen which could not be holpen by other things It easeth also the pains and torments of the Bowels which we call the Cholick And if saith he the Root hereof be beaten with a few Peach-stone-Kernels and bitter Almonds and after laid in sleep in Aquâ—vitae for three dayes a drop or two of the expressed Cream thereof dropped into the Ears that are deaf or have much noyse helpeth them the juyce mixed with Honey or Plantain-water helpeth all sores in the mouth or throat being gargled therewith and the Tooth-ach also The juyce of it openeth the Hemorrhoides or Piles and strongly moveth to the Stool being put up in Wooll and saith Mesues it avoideth tough Flegme used in a Clister It is also used with such Medicines as discuss swellings Kernels and other hard knots in any part of the body It helpeth also the Pin and Web in the Eyes being infused with Honey as also avoideth it by the Nostrils and that by snuffing up the juyce the head and brain is purged from those humours that offend it the Ach also and daily pains of it and the Meagrim This Plant belongeth to the womb by Signature and therefore as Theophrastus affirmeth the fresh Root put into a Cloth and applyed for a little time to the secret parts of a Woman that is in sore and long Travail in Child-birth helpeth them to an easie and speedy delivery but it is dangerous till then to be medled with by Women with Child because it will make them miscarry It is profitable for those that have the yellow Jaundice to drive it forth by sweating if after the taking of three drams of the Powder in Mead or Honeyed water they be carefully ordered to sweat It
the pains of the joynts and sinews it strengthneth also the Liver and heart but the Chimicall Oyl doth serve for that and the former purposes much more effectually Being taken inwardly it stayeth vomiting and nauseous subversions and helps the retaining vertue of the stomach and brings good concoction and digestion It stoppeth the Flux of the Belly and profits those that spit blood and that have Coughs being taken with Syrup of Colts-foot or the like it stayeth the acrimony or sharpness of strong purging Medicines and is a good Corrector of them CHAP. LIV. Of Masterwort The Names THis Plant was scarcely known to the Ancients and therefore I cannot tell you by what name they called it but by later Writers it is generally called Imperatoriae as some say from the excellent vertues it hath It is a good Herb indeed but there being many as excellent as it methinks that shouâ—d not be the Reason why it should bear away the Bell from the rest I suppose it rather to be so called because if it meet with a peece of ground it liketh it will so disperse it self on every side that it will prove it self the Generall or sole Commander of the place and so may others haply if they compare the name and the nature of the Plant together And so much also doth the word Magistrantia from whence the word being corrupted comes Astrantia import from the over-mastering of its neighbouring Plants The like might be said of its English name Masterwort It is by some called Pellitory of Spain but falsly that being a small low Plant bearing many finely cut long Leaves upon the stalks lying on the ground like Camomil but somewhat larger Gerard calls it English-Masterwort or false Pellitory of Spain The Kindes As a Lyon brings forth but one Whelp so this mighty Plant is not very numerous in its Progeny for of it there are but two sorts 1. Common Masterwort 2. Mountain Masterwort The Form Common Masterwort hath divers great broad leaves divided into sundry parts three for the most part standing together upon a small footstalk on both sides the greater and three likewise at the end of the stalk each of which leaves are somewhat broad and cut-in on the edges into three or more divisions and all of them besides dented about the brims of a dark green colour and do so much resemble Angelica Leaves that I have known them mistaken for the same yet if they be well regarded they may easily be known asunder for that they grow lower to the ground and upon lesser stalks amongst which rise up two or three short stalks in comparison of Angelica being about half a yard or two foot high and slender with such like leaves at the joynts as grow below but lesser and with fewer divisions bearing umbels of white Flowers and after them small thin flat blackish Seed bigger then Dill-Seed the Root is somewhat great and groweth rather side-wayes then down-right into the ground and is the hottest and sharpest part of any of the rest of the Plant and the Seed next unto it being somewhat blackish on the out-side and smelling well The Places and Time The first is found on sundry Hill in Italy as also in Germany yet it is usually kept in Gardens with them as well as Us The other was found on the Alps in Switzerland They flowre and seed late with us as not untill the end of August The Temperature The Root of Masterwort is hotter then Pepper even to the third Degree compleat and is of very subtle parts The Vertues The Roots of Pellitory of Spain being very rare in England the Roots of Masterwort are the best substitute and are commonly sold in Shops under that Notion The dryed Root being chewed in the mouth draweth down from the head much flegme and is thereby available to ease the pains in the Head and Teeth and to draw forth cold Rheum Catarrhes and Defluxions upon the Lungs or Distillations into the Eys It is available in all cold Diseases and Griefs both of the Stomack and Body dissolving wind very powerfully both upward and downward The same also provoketh Urine and helpeth to break the Stone and expel Gravel from the Kidneys it procureth Womens Courses and expelleth the dead Birth and is singular good for the strangling of the Mother and other the like Womens Diseases it is effectuall also against the Dropsie Cramp and Falling Sicknesse It is of a rare quality against all sorts of cold poysons to be taken as there is cause either more or lesse and provoketh sweat The juyce hereof dropped or Tents dipped therein and applyed either to the green wounds or rotten Ulcers yea although they fret and creep and be almost gangrenated and those also that come by envenomed Weapons doth soon cleanse and heal them or if they be bathed with the distilled water the same also is good to help the Gout comming of cold cause Tragus saith that the Decoction of the Root in Wine being drunk doth revive the ability of generation but surely he had not observed Galens Rule who saith that those things that are so hot to expell wind do not help but hinder nature The other sort is more effectual and especially for Quartane Agues to expel the dead Child to purge the brain and to expell wind and help the Cholick CHAP. LV. Of Corall The Names THough it may seem strange to some at first sight that I should treat of Corall amongst Plants which seemeth more like unto a Stone yet whosoever shall consider the manner of its growing will conclude with the Herbarists of all Ages that it is fitly reckoned amongst them It is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek and Corallium by all that have written of it and thereto rubrum or album c. is set for distinction-sake yet the white is not remembered but by modern Authours the black sorts are called Antipathes and Corallium Nigrum there is a second sort of Antipathes or rough bristly black Corall and is called by the Fishers of Sardinia Sambeggia The Kinds The Sorts of Corall mentioned by later Writers are ten 1. The great red Corall 2. The greater and siner white Corall 3. Loose white Corall 4. Hollow white Corall 5. Knotty and spotted white Corall 6. Starry white Corall 7. Joynted white Corall 8. Black Corall 9. Rough bristly black Corall 10. Yellow Corall The Forme The greater red Corall which I take to be of greatest use is found growing on the Rocks in the Sea like unto a shrub with Arms and Branches breaking forth some into greater and some into lesser sprigs set full of knaggy eminences of a pale or whitish red colour on the out-side for the most part as it is taken forth of the water but being scraped or filed and polished becommeth very fair as it is usually seen yet some will be much more red on the outside at the first taking up and much redder within also being also of a firmer or hard stony
English Winter-green The Kinds Though formerly but one now six sorts are known 1. Ordinary Winter Green 2. The least Winter Green 3. Slender Winter Green 4. The Winter Green of Europ with Chickweed Flowers 5. Winter Green of America with Chickweed flowers 6. Shrubby Winter Green The Forme The first sort groweth sending forth seven or eight or nine Leaves from a small brownish creeping root every one standing on a long Footstalk and being almost as broad as long round pointed of a sad green colour hard in handling and like unto the Leaf of the Peartree but others compare them to be like unto the small leaves of Beets from whence ariseth a slender weak stalk yet standing upright bearing at the top many small white flowers smelling as sweet as those of Lilly Convally laid open like a star consisting of five round pointed leaves with many yellowish threds standing in the middle about a green head and a long stile with them which in time groweth to be the Seed-Vessel which when it is ripe is formed five square with a small point at it wherein is contained as small seed as the dust it self The Places and Time The Sort I have now described groweth in Lansdale and Craven in the North part of England especially in a Close called Crag Close and also in a Bog by Rosecre in the Kings County The second groweth at the foot of the high hills in Austria and Stiria as Clusius saith The third in Germany as also near Savoy The fourth groweth on the Woods of Germany in divers places as also in the Beechwood in Scotland as is recorded by Bauhinus and on the Mountains in in Wales likewise The fifth groweth in Brasil towards the West Indies The last groweth in most of the Provinces of Hungary Germany and Bohemia they do all flower except the American Sorts about June and July but the other more late with Us. The Temperature Winter green is cold in the second degree and dry in the third and exceeding astringent and glutinous withall The Vertues Grollius in his Book of Signatures puts down Pyrola to be a principall Herb for the Throat and therefore saith he we use it in Gargarisms but how to make out the Signature is beyond my poor skill It is a singular Remedy for green Wounds to consolidate their lips speedily together either the green Leaves bruised and applyed of themselves or the juyce of them or a Salve made of the green Herbs stamped or the juyce boyled with Hogs-lard or with Sallet-Oyl and Wax and some Turpentine added unto it which is so soveraign a Salve for all manner of wounds and Sores that the Germans use it exceeding much and extoll it beyond all other Salves made of a simple Herb They likewise use it for inward wounds or hurts being boyled either by it self or with other Wound-Herbs as Comfry Burnet Mos-eare c. wherewith they use to heal whomsoever is wounded either in the Body or Bowels or any other part by giving them to drink of such a decoction The Herb boyled in Wine or water and thereof given to drink to them that have any inward Ulcers in the Kidneys or neck of the Bladder doth wonderfully help them It stayeth also all Fluxes whether of blood or of humours as the Lask Bloody Fluxes or Womens too abundant Courses as also the bleeding of wounds and both taketh away Inflammation rising upon the pains of the heart and hindereth any to arise being presently applyed after the hurt received It is no lesse helpful for foul Ulcers hard to be cured as also for Cancers and Fistulaes The distilled water of the Herb doth effectually perform the same things and some keep the dryed Herb to use in Decoctions or made into powder to drink as often as they shall have occasion CHAP. LXIV Of Horse-Tongue or Double-Tongue The Names THe Grecians call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Hippoglossum either because 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 is a word oftentimes prefixed before great Plants as Hipposelinum Hippolapathum Hippomarathrum c. or because it somewhat resembles an Horses Tongue but others think it should be more truly called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Hypoglossum because of the small Leaves like small Tongues growing upon the greater The Latines keep the name and call it Hippoglossum or Hypoglossum and some to expresse it more fully Bislingua two Tongues or double Tongue some Lingua Pagana and of Apuleius Victoriola It is also called Bonifacia by Angularia and Uvularia by Bruâ—felsius Leonicerus Tabermontanus and others This is not Laurus Alexandrina as some have supposed The Kindes Besides the ordinary sort Fabius Columna maketh mention of another with larger Tongues upon the Leaves which as he saith is much more rare to find The Forme Horse-Tongue shooteth forth divers hard stalks with Leaves on them which are somewhat broad yet pointed at the end somewhat hard with Ribs running through them upon which from the middle Rib groweth a smaller Leaf or Tongue about the middle of the Leaf on the upper side which maketh it to differ from all other Plants that grow upon the ground Under the smaller Leaf at the bottom where it joyneth to the greater commeth forth one small whitish green Flower and sometimes two standing upon short foot-foot-stalks where afterward stand the Berries which when they are ripe are very red very like unto the Berries of the Yew-Tree wherein is a white hard Seed the Root consisteth of many long hard whitish strings growing from a head The Places and Time It groweth upon Hills and in Woods in divers places both of Italy and Germany but is only cherished in Gardens with Us particularly in the Physick Garden in Oxford It flowreth in Iune and the Berries are ripe at the end of September in the naturall places as in the warmer Countries but it seldom commeth to perfection in our Land The Temperature Horse-Tongue is evidently hot in the second Degree and dry in the first The Signature and Vertues The little Leaf like a Tongue growing upon the greater is no light Argument that this Plant is effectuall for Sores in the Mouth and Throat and to settle the Palate of the Mouth in its place that is subject to fall down by reason of too much moysture which may likewise be signified thereby It is likewise of singular good use in old and filthy Ulcers in any part of the Body to dry up the moysture and to bring them on more speedily to be healed either the Powder of the Leaves or Roots to be used alone or with other things put into them or the decoction to wash them or inject into them It is held to be most powerful also of any Herb that is to help the suffocations and other Diseases of the Muther to take the Powder of the dryed Leaves or Roots in Wine Broth or other drink for it will speedily give ease Three or four drams of the said Powder taken in sweet Wine procureth a speedy delivery and
burn but especially that which groweth by the Sea-side When the Hoggs were troubled with tuberous Baggs of corruption about their Necks the Country people were formerly wont to give them of the Herb Impious boyled in Milk or the like and they observed that which soever of them refused to take it would assuredly die CHAP. LXXVIII Of Jewes Eares The Names AMongst other Simples there is an Excressence of the Elder or Bore-tree which I shall treat of a part from the Tree it self and with it put a period to those things that are appropriated to the Throat it being of so great use for this part whereas the Elder it self is available to many others Notwithstanding I think that the Grecians took so little notice of it that they scarcely afforded it a Name It is called in Latine Fungus Sambucinus and Auricula Juda some having supposed the Elder-tree to be that whereon Judas hanged himself and that ever since these Mushromes like unto Eates have grown thereon which I will not perswade you to believe It is called in English Jewes Eares the Mushrome of the Elder by some the Gelly and by others the Sponge growing upon the Elder The Kinds My Lord Bacon in his naturall History saith that Jewes-Eâ—res grow upon other Trees besides the Elder as the Ash Fir c. but I suppose he was mistaken There are sometimes growing on those Trees certaâ—n Mushromes but like to Jewes-Eares neither in form nor vertue and therefore not to be called by that Name The Forme This Excrescence called Jewes-Eares is a soft and limber Mushrome which while it is fresh is not very thick but transparent and of a blackish colour of differing forms and sizes for some will be swolne and puffed up in one place more then in another having some resemblance to a Mans Eare some thin on the edge and thick in the middle and some two or three growing together all of them being dryed become of a blackish gray colour and then may be kept a whole year or more safe without spoyling to be used as you need The Places and Times Jewes-Eares grow as I said upon the Elder-tree but not so frequently upon them in other places as upon those that are planted upon Cony-Boroughs for their shadow and shelter I understand not but they may be found there at any time of the Year The Temperature Gerard saith that the jelley of the Elder otherwise called Jewes-Eares hath a binding and drying quality The Vertues Dr. Martin Blochwich Physician-Ordinary of Oshatin in his ingenious Tract called the Anatomy of Elder saith that even common Country Women so soon as they suspect any Disease in the Throat of their young Children they steep the Sponge of Elder in their Drink and when it is swelled they therewith carefully wipe away all the filth of the Palat Gums and Tongue It is likewise used for the same purpose being boyled in Ale or Milk with Columbine Leaves and with a little Pepper and Pellitory of Spain in Powder it helpeth to put up the Uâ—â—la or Palat of the Mouth being fallen down Take of the water or Decoction of Elder-Flowers wherein a little Elder-Honey hath been mixed and add thereunto some Leaves of Self-heal and a Jewes Eare or two and you will find it a sure Experiment for the Quinsey And a Lohoch or licking of the Rhob of Elder inspislated with Sugar with some pulverised Jewes-Eares added thereunto is commodious The distilled water of Jewes-Eares is very profitable for the Dropsie according to Crâ—lliâ—s de signaturis rerâ—â— and a drink made by sleeping three whole dryed Umbels of Elder Flowers and two Jewes-Eares very well dryed in two quarts of White-wine if it be used and no other drink the tumour will vanish away suddenly An handful of Jewes-Eares infused in a quart of the Spirit of Wine and a full draught thereof given to one that is troubled with the suffocation of the Matrix in the time of her fit cureth her The Powder of the Grains of Elder being mixed with an equall part of Jewes-Eares is commended in spitting blood CHAP. LXXIX Of Elecampane The Names HAving appropriated severall Simples to the inside and outside of the Throat the Breast comes next in Order to be provided for both internally and externally to which there is nothing more proper then Elecampane which is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Helenium also in Latine and of some Inula and Enula and Enula Campana some think it took the name from the tears of Helen from whence it sprung which is a Fable others say it was so called because Helen first found it available against biting and stingings of venemous Beasts and others think it took its name from the Island Helena where the best was found to grow We in English call it Elecampane generally yet in some Countries of this Land it is called Sabwort and Horse-heal The Kindes To this Plant which otherwise would be single do some refer the Flowers of the Sun as 1. The greater flower of the Sâ—â— 2. The lesser flower of the Sun 3. The Male flower of the Sun 4. The Marigold Sun flower The Forme Elecampane shooteth forth many large leaves lying neer the ground which are long and broad but small at both ends somewhat soft in handling of a whitish green on the upper side and gray underneath each set upon a short footstalk From amongst which riâ—e â—p divers great and strong hairy stalks two or three foot high with some leaves thereon compassing them about at the lower ends and are branched towards the tops bearing divers great and large flowers like unto those of the flower of the Sun of which it is said to be a kind as I said before both the border of the leaves and the middle Thrum being yellow which is not wholly converted into large seed as in the flower of the Sun but turneth into Down with some long small brownish seed among it and is carried away with the wind the Râ—â—t is great and thick branched forth divers waies blackish on the outside and white within of a very bitter taste but good sent especially when it is dryed no part else of the plant having any smell The Places and Time This is one of the Plants whereof England may boast as much as any for there growes none better in the world then in England let Apothecaries and Druggeists say what they will It groweth in Meadows that are fat and fruitful as in Parsons Meadow by Adderbury as I have been told and in divers other places about Oxfordshire It is found also upon the Mountains and shadowy places that be not altogether dry it groweth plentifully in the fields on the left hand as you go from Dunstable to Puddle hill Also in an Orchard as you go from Colâ—râ—â— to Ditton Ferry which is in the way from London to Windsor and in divers places in Wales particularly in the Orchard of Mr. Peter Piers at Guieruigron neer St. Asaphs The
pungere significat because it stings In Latine Vrtica ab urendo quod pruritum pustulasque igni similes excitat because it raiseth blisters like unto those that are caused by burning with fire The Kindes Of those Nettles that are stinging of Which alone I shall intreat in this Chapter there are four sorts 1. The Roman Nettle 2. The greater wild Nettle 3. The middle wild Nettle 4. The lesser wild Nettle The Forme The Roman Nettle groweth up with divers round hairy branches rather leaning down then standing upright never above the height of a foot that ever I see whereon at the Joynts are two leaves set together very rough and although it hath no sharp prickles yet it hath an hairy down thereon that will sting the skin most cruelly if it be touched therewith and raise it full of blisters as if it were burnt with fire and dented at the edges somewhat deeply at divers places of the branches come forth small stalks of reddish and yellowish flowers made of threds which fall away without bearing any thing else but at the Joynts with the leaves in other places from the middle of the branches upwards come forth small round rough green prickly Pellets or Buttons wherein is contained divers flat brown shining seeds something like unto Line or Flexseed but smaller and rounder The root is yellowish and spreadeth divers long strings and small Fibres whereby it taketh fast hold in the ground yet perisheth every year requiring a new sowing every spring The Places and Time The first is most usually sown in Gardens where it is desired as it is also in the upper and Lower Germany and most places of France also but it hath been found naturally growing time out of mind both at the Town of Lidde by Romney and in the streets of the Town of Romney in Kent where it is recorded that Julius Caesar landed with his Souldiers and abode there a certain time which very probably was by them called Romania and corruptibly therefrom Romeney or Romney and for the growing of it in that place it is reported that the souldiers brought some of the seed with them and sowed it there for their use to rub and chafe their Limbs when through extream cold they should be stiffe and benummed being told before they came from home that the climate of Britain was so extream cold that it was not to be endured without some friction and â—ibbing to warm their blood and to stir up naturall heat since which time it is thought it hath continued there rising yearly of its own sowing It groweth also in the streets of Bardney in Lincolnshire the other three sorts grow in wast grounds by hedges and Wall sides and many other untilled places yet they will be also found in most Gardens where if they be suffered or neglected but a while it will be hard to rid them out again They flower and seed in the end of Summer and the lesser is so plentifull that it will seed and shed and spring and seed again bearing ripe seed twice in one year if it be let grow The Temperature Although Nettles do hurt and sting while they are green which is caused by the hair or rough down upon them and might be thought to be Caustick and exulcerating being otherwise applyed yet it is not so they being found to be hot and dry in the third degree The Vertues and Signature The roots or Leaves of nettles boyled or the Juyce of either of them or both made into an electuary with hony or Sugar is safe and sure medicine to open the Pipes and Passages of the Lungs which is the cause of wheesing and shortnesse of breath and helpeth to expectorate tough flegme as also to raise the Impostumated Plurisie and spend it by spitting the same helpeth the swelling of the Almonds of the Throat the Mouth and Throat being gargled therewith The juyce is also effectual to settle the Palate of the mouth in its place and to heal and temper the inflammations and sorenesse of the Mouth and Throat The decoction of the leaves in wine being drunk is singular good to provoke Womens Courses and settle the suffocation or strangling of the Muther and all other diseases thereof as also applyed outwardly with a little Myrrh The same also or the seed provoketh Urine and expelleth the Gravel or Stone in the Reins or Bladder as hath been often and effectually proved in many that have taken it The same killeth the Worms in Children easeth pains in the sides and dissolveth the windinesse in the Spleen as also in the body although others think it to provoke Venery which it may be said to do by Signature The Juyce of the Leaves taken two or three daies together stayeth bleeding at the mouth The seed being drunk is a remedy against the stinging of venemous Creatures the biting of mad Dogs the poysonous qualities of Hemlock Henbane Nightshade Mandrak or other such like herbs that stupifie and dull the sences as also the Lethargy especially to use it outwardly to rub the Forehead or Templs in the Lethargy and the places bitten or stung with beasts with a little Salt The distilled water of the herb is also effectuall although not so powerfulâ— for the diseases aforesaid as for outward wounds and sores to wash them and to cleanse the skin from Morphew Leprosie and other discolourings thereof The seed of leaves bruiâ—ed and put into the Nostrils stayeth the bleedings of them and taketh away the flesh growing in them called Polypus The juyce of the leaves or the decoction of them or of the roots is singular good to wash either old rotten or stinking â—ores or Fistulaes or Gangrenes and such as are eating fretting or corroding scabs manginesse and itch in any part of the body as also green wounds by washing them therewith or applying the green herb bruised thereunto yea though the flesh were separated from the bones The same applyed to wearied members refresh them or to places that have been out of joynt being first set again strengthning drying and comforting them as also those places that are troubled with Aches and Gouts and the defluxions of humours upon the joynts or Sinews it easeth the paines and dryeth or dissolveth the defluxions An ointment made of the juyce oyl and a little wax is singular good to rub cold benummed Members to bring them to their proper activity again An handful of the green Leaves of Nettles and another of Wallwort or Danewort bruised and applyed simply of themselvs to the Gout Sciatica or Joynt-Aches in any part hath been found to be an admirable help thereunto It is said that if green Nettles be put into the Urine of a sick body if it be fresh and green after it hath lyen four and twenty hours therein the party shall recover of that sicknesse but if it do not abide green it signifieth death or danger It is said likewise that if the Juyce of the roots of Nettles be mixed
neither so high nor so great usually as Fennell being round and with fewer joynts thereon whose Leaves are sadder and sometimes longer and so like Fennell that it deceives many but harder in handing and somewhat thicker of a stronger scent also and not altogether so pleasant the tops of the stalks have fewer branches and smaller umbells of yellow flowers which turn into small seed somewhat flatter and thinner then Fennell seed but of a stronger and not so pleasant a tast The Root is small and wooddy perishing every year after it hath born seed and is at no time put to any use The Places and Time The first is most usually sowed in Gardens and grounds for the purpose yet it hath been found wild in some places It may be sowen about the beginning of April and then haply it may come up about the end thereof but where it is once sowed and the Seeds suffered to shed it will come up of its own accord yet not till about the time aforesaid it being a wise Plant and not willing to venter abâ—oâ—d till the Winter be gone It bringeth forth its Flowers in July and Seeds iâ— August The second as is said hath been found in Sicilia and so the last likewise The Temperature Gerard and Parkinson differ about the Temperature and Vertues of this Plant. Gerard saith Dill and he quoteth Galen for it is hot in the end of the second Degree and dry in the beginning of the same or in the end of the fâ—rst Degree Parkâ—nson saith it is hot in the third degree and dry in the second but when it is dryed it is hot in the third whence he upon seeming suppoâ—tion of Galens concludes and after him Mr. Pemel and Mr. Culpepper the two first contradicting and the other omitting the lactiâ—ick vertues which notwithstanding do reside in this herb The Vertues Though the forementioned Authours deny that Dill hath the Vertue of procuring Milk in the Breasts of Nurses yet Dâ—oscorides that Oracle of Herbarism affirming it I durst not follow them but searching some other Authours I find them to differ also though they allow of its lactifick Vertue for Mr. Barrow in his Method of Physick treating of those things that procure milk saith that Rocket Fennell Dill and Parsley will do it whilest they are green for they being dryed do heat and dry more then they ought to do Mr. Gerard saith the decoction of the tops of Dill dryed and likewise of the Seed being drunk ingendâ—eâ—h Milk in the Breasts of Nurses which I conceive it might do though it were hot and dry in the third Degree for why may not Dill have this faculty as well as the Seeds of Nigella which are likewise hot and dry in the third degree which Parkinson grants without scruple But it matters not much of what quality it be of so it be endued with a specifick quality to draw milk into the Breasts as it seems this hath And though it be probable that it breedeth not much blood from whence milk proceeds yet stirring up the Appetite to other food that doth it it may be said to do it So much for breeding of Milk Now for its other vertues The decoction of the Herb and Seeds provoketh Urine expelleth wind easeth pains and swellings in the Body stayeth vomiting and the Hickops for which last purpose it will be more effectuall if it be boyled in Worm-wood-Wine or Wine with a few branches of Worm-wood and red Rose Leaves the stomach bathed therewith but if the Seed be only boyled in Wine or Beere then tyed in a Cloth so smelâ—ed it will stay them if they be not too violent Being boyled in Wine drunk it is good to strengthen the Brain and stop the loosnesse of the Belly to stir up Venery so doth the green Herb yet either of them taken often or in any great quantity doth very much dull the Eye-sight and dryeth up the naturall Sperm The decoction thereof helpeth Women that are troubled with the pains and windinesse of the Muthes if it be put into the Case of a close Stool Wiâ—ker Chair or some such hollow thing that the fume thereof may ascend upward the more effectually The Seed is of more use then the Leaves although they be much used to rellish Condiments as pickled Cucumbers c. and is more effectuall to digest raw and viscous humours and is used in all Medicines that serve to expell wind and ease torments and pains thereof The Seed being roasted or fryed and used in Oyls or Plaisters dissolveth the Apostumes in the Fundament dryeth all Ulcers especially in the secret parts and likewise those sub praeputio though they be old and of long continuance Oyl wherein Dill Seed or Dill hath been boyled procureth sleep and is effectuall to warm the Brains and Stomach and Belly either of them being anointed therewith to resolve humours and Impostumes or hard Tumors and to ease pain CHAP. XCV Of Rampions The Names SOme call these Rapunculi and Rapuntia Gesner Dodonaeus and others call them Rapa Sylvestria which though they have but little likenesse at all with Rapum the Turnep but in the ediblenesse of the Root yet the name is a diminutive thereof Others call them Campanula of the form of the Flowers being like little Bells Columna taketh Rapunculus minor to be the Erinus of Nicander and Dioscorides and the other Rapunculi to be kinds thereof Maâ—hiolus taketh Campanula Persici folio to be the Phyteuma of Dioscorides and Casalpinus calleth the Rapunculus Spicatus sive Alepecuroides Phyteuma foliis Rapunculi chiefly because the Heads with Seed have holes in them as Dioscorides saith the Phyteuma hath They are called in English Rampions some being Garden Rampions some wild Rampions and some Bell-flowers The Kindes Of Rampions Parkinson reckoneth up no lesse then seaventeen Sorts 1. Garden Rampions 2. Long Foxtail Rampions 3. Round Foxtail Rampions 4. Bush-headed Rampions which are also of three Sorts 5. Candy Rampions 6. The lesser Steeple Belflowre 7. Wood Rampions 8. Wood Rampions with great Flowers 9. Sullen broad leafed Bell-flowre 10. The least broad leafed Bell-flowre 11. Wild field Bell-flowers 12. Small wild Bell-flowers 13. Flax leafed Bell-flower 14. Small yellow Bell-flowers 15. Time leafed Bell-flower 16. Ivy leafed Bell-flower 17. Rock Rampions to which I shall add the Peach leafed Bell-flower and the horned Rampions The Form The Rampions that are usually kept in Gardens are accounted a lesser kind then many of the others that grow wild and lying upon the ground with divers small and long round pointed pale green Leaves before it run up to stalks which spread divers such Leaves thereon but smaller to the top where break forth sundry pale Purplish Flowers ending in five points like unto the Flowers of Throatwort but much smaller having also such like heads with small brownish Seed therein The Root is small and white and giveth milk being broken as all the rest of the Plant doth
famous Doctor of Physick whom the Greeks called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Some Bastard Names it hath also as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi Hederula and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi Hederula folium the form of the Leaves being like unto Ivy. Ruellius calleth it Hederalis in Latine but it is better known by the Names of Asclepias and Vincetâ—xicum which last is a generall word for any Counter-poyson and commeth from Vincâ— to over-come and Toxicum Poyson It was anciently called Hirundinaria although both the kinds of Chelidonium majus and minus be called Hirundinaria that is Swallon-vvort ab Hirundine from a Swallow because the pointed Cods when they are open and the Silk appeareth out of them do somewhat resemble a Swallow flying Others say from the Seed which is feathered as it were with Down about it In English it is called Svvallovv-vvort and of some Silken Cicely The Kinds There be only three Sorts of Swallow-wort that I can find 1. Swallow-wort with white Flowers 2. Swallow-wort with black Flowers 3. Swallow-wort of Candy The Form The Swallow-wort with white-flowers riseth up with divers slender weake stalkes to be halfe a yard or two foot long not easy to break yet scarce able to stand upright and therefore for the most part leane or lye down upon the ground if they find not some thing to sustaine them and then somtimes they will twine themselves about it whereon are set two leaves at the joynts being somwhat broad and long pointed at the end of a darke green colour and smooth at the edges at the joynts with the Leaves towards the top of the stalkes and at the tops themselves come forth divers small white flowers consisting of five pointed leaves a piece of an heavy sweet sent after wich come small long pods thick above and growing lesse and lesse to the point wherein by small flat brown seed wrapped in a great deale of white silken down which when the pod is ripe openeth of it selfe and sheddeth both seed and cotton upon the ground if it be not carefully gathered the roots are a great bush of many white strings fastned together at the head smelling somewhat strong while they are fresh and green but more pleasant when they are dryed both leaves and stalkes dye down every yeare to the ground and rise a new in the Spring the stalkes at their first coming up being of a blackish brown colour The Places and Time One or two if not all of these sorts grow in the Physick Garden at Oxford but as for their naturall places the two first grow in rough untilled places and on Mountaines in divers places both in France about Narbone Marscilles and Mompelier and in Italy also and in other places The last grow in Candy whence the seed came which being sowne groweth with us They all flower in the moneths of June and July and somtimes not untill August if the yeare be backward and their Cods with seed are ripe about a Moneth after the empty huske abiding on the dry branches when the seed and silk is shed out and fallen on the ground or blown away with the wind The Temperature The rootes of Swallow-wort are hot and dry and have a soveraigne quality against all poysons but in particular against the Apocinum or Dogsbane The Vertues A Dram of the powder of the roots of Swallow-wort taken in Sorrell or Bnglosse water is very effectuall against all the passions of the heart and if a few Citron seeds be taken therewith in the same manner and measure it easeth all the griping paines of the belly It is likewise effectually given to any that are bitten by any venemous beast or stung by any Serpent or other Creature as also against the biting of a mad dog a dram and an halfe of the root being taken in Carduus water for divers dayes together It is taken also in Wine every day against the Plague or Pestilence The decoction of the rootes made with white-Wine taken for divers dayes together a good draught at a time and sweating presently thereupon cureth the Dropâ—y the same also helpeth the Jaundise provoketh Urine and eaâ—eth the Cough and all defects of the Chest and Lungs The powder of the Rootes taken with Peony seed is good against the Falling sicknesse or what Basil seed or the rind of Pome Citrons is good against Melancholy Taken with the roots of White or Bastard Dâ—ttany it killeth and expelleth the Wormes of the Maw and Belly The rootes are very effectually used with other things in Bathes made for women to â—t over to ease all paines of the Mother and bring down their courses The Decoction likewise of the Roots hereof and of Comfrey made with wine is much commended to help those that are bursten or have a rupture and for them that have bin bruised with a fall or otherwise The powder of the root or leaves is no lesse effectuall to cleanse all putrid rotten and filthy Ulcers and soâ—es wheresoever then the Roots of Aristolochia or Birthwort and may safely be used in all Salves Unguents and Lotions made for such purposes instead thereof the one for the other The Leaves and Flowers boyled and made into a pultis applyed to the hard tumors or swellings of womens Breasts cureth them speedily as also such evil sores as happen in the Matrix although they be inveterate or hard to be cured The Down that is found in the Cods of these herbs doth make a softer stuffing for Cushions or Pillows or the like than thistle down which is much used in some places for the like purposes CHAP. CXXVII Of Goates-Rue The Names THis Hearb being unknown to the Antient Authors hath no Greek Name in Latin it is usually called Galega or Ruta Capraria For they that first found it and the vertues gave that Name of Rue thereunto as finding it no lesse effectuall then the Best Rue and Capraria because it is good for Goates Some call it Gralega and some Herba Gallica as Fracastorius and of some Capraria Some with us call it Italian-Vetch but most Commonly Goates Rue The Kinds The Sorts hereof are but two 1. Common Goates Rue 2. Mountain Goats Rue The Forme The Common or most usuall Goates Rue sendeth forth many round hard stalks three or four foot high whereon grow one above another at severall Joynts Long winged Leaves that is many Leaves set one each side of a middle rib which are small yet somewhat broad and long and pointed at the end smooth on the Edges without any dents somewhat like unto the Leaves of Vetches and of a faint green Colour at the topps of the stalks stand many small Leguminous flowers one above another of a pale blewish purple Colour and in some plants pure white after which come small round pods about â—n inch and an half long a little bunched out in some places but nothing so much as the Orobus or Bitter Vetch wherein lie three or four or five small pale seed
like unto a Vetch The root is white and wooddy spreading well in the ground and abiding divers yeares The Places and Time The first groweth in divers Gardens of this Land as in the Physick Gardens so often mentioned and very plentifully in a Garden at St. Albans not farr from the Prison sometimes in the possession of Dr. Arris who was a great admiâ—er of the same for its Cordia vertues It groweth Naturally by the way sides of moist fields and Meadows both in Italy Savoy and other places and hath also bin found some years since in the Meadows by Linton in Cambridgeshire The other is said onely to grow upon the tops of mountaines They flower in the end of Iune and Iuly and the seed is ripe in August The Temperature Goates Rue is said to be of a mean Temperature between hot and cold The Vertues There is not any Plant more effectuall to preserve the heart from Palpitations tremblings and sownings and against Melanchosicke Vapours oppressing it then Goates Rue which is a great Preservative also against the bitings or stings of any venemous Creatures yea those Italians as Pena and Lobel say and others that use to gather Vipers will use it rather then the Beast-Treacle to defend themselves from being bitten or stung by them or to preserve them from any other infection and therefore eat it continually as other Hearbs in Sallets or otherwise in their meates and broths It is likewise very powerfull against any poyson taken inwardly the Pestilence or any infectious or pestilentious Feavers or diseases that break forth into spots or marks as the Measells Purples and the Small-Pox in all which it is admirable both to preserve from infection and cure those that are infected to take every morning some of the juyce thereof as also to eat the Hearb it self every morning fasting but it will be the more effectuall if the juyce be taken with a little good Treacle and some Tormentill Roots in powder mixed with Carduus Benedictus water or with some Vinegar and fine Bolearmonick and Treakle in the said Water and presently to sweat two houres thereupon which it causeth in some sort it self A spoonfull of the juyce given in a morning fasting is very effectuaâ—l to kill the wormes in Children or the Hearb it self fryed with a little Oyl of bitter Almonds and laid hot unto the Navill as also to help the Falling-Sicknesse before it grow strong and old upon them It is very profitably applyed to the belly pained with the griping of the wind and Collick being fryed and laid-to warme In the same manner laid unto plague Sores before they be broken it either disperseth them yet defending the heart not striking it inwardly or draweth them forth and healeth them It is also effectually applyed with Vinegar to Gangrenes running Ulcers and Sores to stay the malignity in their fretting and spreading and to defend the vitall Spirits from danger Some use a Syrupe made of the juyce and some of the distilled water as a more familiar Medicine to take upon all occasions inwardly for all the purposes aforesaids And some use to make an Oyle of the Flowers digested in the Sun by often repetitions of infusion to annoint the wrests of the hands where the pulse is felt as also the region of the heart to defend it from the diseases aforesaid and danger of infection It is no lesse effectuall for Sheep Goates and other Cattell by the experiments that Goat-heards have made herewith The Mountain Goates-Rue is held almost as effectuall against poyson and the pestilence as the former CHAP. CXXVIII Of Vipers-Grasse The Names IT was found and the Vertues thereof discovered but of late dayes by a Mauritanian bondslave who holpe divers that were bitten of that Venemous Beast or Viper as it is called by others which they of Catalonia where they breed in abundance call in their Language Escuersos from whence Scorzonera is derived with the juyce of this Herb and the root given them to eate which both took away the poyson and healed the bitten place very quickly when Treacle and other things would do no good which ever since hath grown in estimation both against Venome and other diseases also It is called in Lattin Viperaria Viperina or Serpentaria but most Commonly Scorzonera which name is generally given it by all Nations We in English call it Scorzonera and Vipers-grasse The Kinds I find Ten Sorts of Vipers-grasse rekonned up by Authors 1. Common Vipers grasse 2. Dwarfe Vipers grasse 3. Spanish Vipers grasse 4. Dwarfe Spanish Vipers grasse 5. The greater Hungarian broad leafed Vipers grasse 6. The Dwarfe Hungarian Vipers grasse 7. The small Hungarian Vipers grasse 8. Purple Vipers grasse 9. Tall Narrow Leaved purple Vipers grasse 10. Vipers grasse of Sclavony The Forme The first of the Vipers grasses hath long broad leaves fat or full bodyed uneven about the edges sharp pointed with an high swoln rib down the middle and of an overworn green colour tending to that of Woad amongst which riseth up a stiffe stalk smooth and plaine of two cubits high whereon do grow such leaves as those next the ground The flowers stand on the top of the Stalks consisting of many small yellow leaves thick thrust together very double like unto those of Tragopogon or Goates-beard whereof most think it to be a kind The Root is long thick very brittle continueth many yeares yeelding great increase of roots black without white within and yeeldeth a milky juyce as do the leaves also like unto the Goates-beards The Places and time Many of the Sorts aforesaid are to be found in the Gardens of some Physitians and Apothecaries who know the worth of them as also in the Physick Gardens at Oxford and Westminster but especially the two first The Third and Fourth in Spain as their titles do declare The fifth in many places of Germany Bohemia and Hungary The Sixth on the hills by Baden in Germany The Seventh in many of the same places with the Fifth The Eighth and Ninth on a small hill nigh unto Stampfen which is two Duch miles from Posonium a chief Citty in Hungary The last in Illyria or Sclavony as Alpinus saith They do all flower in May and their seed is ripe before the end of June The Temperature Vâ—pers-Grasse is thought not to exceed the first Degree of heat and moysture which are the predominant qualities The Vertues and Signature The water of this Herb distilled in Glasses or the Root it self taken is good against the passions and tremblings of the heart and also against swounings sadness and melancholy the same also is a present remedy against all contagious Feavers for by causing sweat the infection is evaporated and the sick person restored The Root preserved and taken fasting â—or the said water drunk for some dayes together doth open the obstructions of the Liver Spleen and other inward parts as also helpeth to bring down Womens Courses and to ease the suffocation or other Diseases of
face from freckles Morphew or other Spots CHAP. CXXXI Of Scordium or Water Germander The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and in Latine Scordâ—um from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which is Allium Garlick because the smell of it is something like unto the smell of Garlick as Authours report which I never perceived though I have gathered it oftentimes It is also called Frixago Palustris Water or Marsh-Germander both of the likenesse thereof to Germander called Frixago and for the growing thereof in Marshes c. Some also call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from the strong scent being so unpleasant to the Senses Pliny saith that Crateras did ascribe one of the sorts hereof unto Mithridates and called it Mithridation and it may be from hence as well as from Garlick that it was called Poor-Mens-Treacle and by our Country-people English-Treacle The Kinds Parkinson joyneth together in the same Chapter for affinity in name or smell these six following 1. Scordium or Water-Germander 2. Wood-Sage which is called in Latine Scorodania sive Scordium alterum quibusdam Salvia agrestis 3. The first Garlick Germander of Pliny 4. Another Garlick Germander of Pliny 5. Sawse-alone or Jack by the Hâ—dge 6. The Germander-like Herb of Naples The Form Water-Germander from a small Root full of white strings spreading in the ground and creeping or running about also shooteth forth divers weak square hairy Branches which take root in divers places as they lie and â—pread whereby it increaseth much whereon do grow many Leaves two alwayes at a joynt which are not altogether so large and long as the Garden-Germander Leaves of a saddish or darkish green colour whereon there is also a shew of hairneâ—s and hoariness somewhat soft in handling full of veins and dented about the edges The Flowers are small red and gaping standing at the Joynts with the Leaves towards the top of the branches Whether it perfect its Seed hath not been yet observed but it is thought it doth not but is propagated by its branches The Places and Time The first groweth in many wet grounds and by water sides in many places of England as upon Botley Cawsey presently after you are over the stream that goeth to Osney milles not very farr from Reuley which is the place Mr. Gerard mentions but on the other side the water Dioscorides saith it groweth on Hills also which it is like enough to do for it wiâ—l abide well if it be transplanted into Gardens where I have seen it often grow as in the Physick Garden at Oxon in the School-house Garden at Adderbury in Oxfordshire where I my self planted it and in the Garden of my worthy friend Mr. Solomeau at his house at East-Sheen in Surray The Second groweth in woods and by wood sides as also in divers fields and by-lanes in divers places with us The Third and Fourth in Candy The fifth groweth under walls and by hedge sides and path wayes in fields and town-sides in moist places The Last on the Hill Capoclari in Naples as Columna saith They do flower in June July and August soâ—ewhat before which time the most usuall manner is to gather the Scordium and dry it to keep The Temperature Water Germander is hot and dry it hath a certain bitter tast harsh and sharp as Galen witnesseth and every one may perceive it that tasteth it though I suppose our English kind is not so like in scent unto Garlick as that of the Ancients Wood-Sage is hot and dry in the Second degree The Vertues Whosoever doth but understand that Scordium oâ— water Germander is the Basâ—â— of that raâ—e Composition called Diascordium and know but the vertue thereof will be sufficiently convinced that this plant is not unfitly appropriated to the heart for it is of excellent use for the comforting and strengthning of that part especially in such Feavers as are accompanied with want of sleep It doth also provoke the Termes hastens womens Labours helpes their usuall sicknesse in their lying in it stops fluxes strengthens the stomack neither is so hot but it may be safely given to weake people Ten graines of a Scruple at a time and a dram or more to them that are stronger The decoction of the Herb onely in wine being either green or dry is good against the biting of all venemous Beasts and Serpents and all other deadly poysons and also against all groaning paines of the stomack and paines of the sides that come either of cold or obstructions and for the bloody flix also made into an Electuary with Cresses Rosin and Honey it is available against an old Cough and to help to expectorate rotten phlegme out of the Chest and Lungs as also to help them that are bursten and troubled with the Cramp It is a speciall Ingredient also in Mithridate and Treacle as a Counterpoyson against all poysons and infections either of the Plague or Pestilentiall or other Epidemicall diseases as the small-pox Measells faint spots or purples and besides it is often given and with good successe before the fits of Agues to divert or hinder the accesse and thereby to drive them away It is a most certain and known common remedy to kill the worms either in the stomack or belly to take a little of the juyce thereof or the powder in drink fasting The decoction of the dryed herb with two or three roots of Tormentill sliced and given to those that are troubled with the blooddy flix is a safe and sure remedy for them The juyce of the Herb alone or a Syrup made thereof is profitable for many of the aforenamed griefes The dryed herb being used with a little Honey cleanseth foul Ulcers and bringeth them to Cicatrizing as also closeth fresh wounds the dryed Herb made into a Cerate or pultis and applyed to excrescences in the flesh as Wens and such like helpeth both to constraine the matter from further breeding of them as also to discusse and disperse them being grown It being used also with Vinegar or water and applyed to the Gout easeth the paines thereof The green Herb bruised and laid or bound to any wound healeth it be it never so great The decoction of Wood-Sage is good to be given to those whose Urine is stayed for it provoketh it and Womens courses also It is thought to be good against the French-pox because the decoction thereof doth provoke sweat digest humors and dissolve swelling and Nodes in the flesh The decoction of the Herb rather green then dry made with wine and taken is accounted a safe and sure remedy for those who by falles bruises or bearings doubt some veine to be inwardly broken to disperse and avoid the congealed blood and to consolidate the vein and is also good for such as are inwardly or outwardly bursten the drink used inwardly and the herb applyed outwardly The same also and in the same manner used is found to be a sure remedy for the Palsy The juyce of the Herb
singular Vertues that it hath in English Holy Thistle and Blessed Thistle but more commonly Carduus Benedictus according to the Latine name Some excellently seen in the knowledge of Simples have made it a kind of Wild Bastard Saffron called in Latine Attractilis and in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because Women in old time were wont to use the stiffe stalk thereof pro fuso colo for a Spindle or a Distaffe It is named also Fucus agrestis and Colus rustica and the Women in Greece as Petrus Bellonius reporteth call Attractylis by a corrupt name Ardactyla even at this day Divers call it Carthamus Sylvestris Cnicus Sylvestris in English Wild Bastard Saffron The Kinds The Sorts hereof as you have already heard are two 1. Carduus Benedictus or the Blessed Thistle 2. Attractylis or Wild Bastard Saffron The Form Carduus Benedictus or Blessed Thistle hath round rough and plyable stalks which being parted into divers Branches do lie flat on the ground the leaves are jagged round about and full of harmless prickles on the edges the heads on the tops of the stalks are set with prickles and invironed with sharp pricking Leaves out of which standeth a yellow Flower the Seed is long and set with white hairs at the top like a Beard the Root is white and parted into strings the whole Herb Leaves and Stalks and also the Heads are covered with a soft and thin Down The Places and Time The first groweth naturally in Lemâ—os which is an Island of the Mediterraâ—ean Sea in the Champion grounds thereof as Petrus Bellonius testifieth It is diligently cherished in Gardens in these Northern parts The second groweth in Candy and in divers Provinces and Islands of Greece and also in Languedock and is entertained in our English Gardens The first flowreth in July and August at which time it is especially to be gathered for Physicall uses for then it will remain good a year or longer Attractylis is very late before it flowreth and seedeth The Temperature As Carduus Benedictus is bitter so it is also hot and dry in the second Degree and withall cleansing and opening Attractylis doth dry and moderately digest as Galen teacheth The Signature and Vertues By the Prickles upon the Stalks and Leaves of Carduus are clearly signified that the herb it self is an excellent remedy for the Pleurisie and Stâ—â—ches wherewith the sides are somtimes distempered if the Decoction in posset drink or the distilled water thereof be taken It helpeth also the swimming of the head strengtheneth the memory and is a good remedy against ceaâ—nesse killeth wormes provoketh Urine and the Courses and driveth out gravel and cleanseth the Stomack It is most excellent in Pestilent Feavers and all contagious Diâ—eases for it expelleth out by sweat all noxious or ill humours It is very good in any kind of Ague either the decoction thereof being taken or half a dram of the Powder in Posset-drink before the fit commeth for divers fits if need require and sweat after it It is very available likewise against Venome and poyson Though the distilled water is useful for the aforesaid Diseases yet the decoction is much better The extract thereof is good against the French Pox and the Quartan Ague The green Herb bruised and applyed is good against hot swellings as Wild-fire Plague-Sores Botches and it is good also to be laid upon the bitings of mad Dogs Serpents Spiders Bees or Wasps or any other venomous Creature The Powder stoppeth blood at the Nose being applyed The juyce thereof cleareth the sight being put into the Eyes and taketh away the redness of them and so doth the water Being bruised with a little Hogs-grease and a little Wheat mixed therewith it cures stubborn and rebellious Ulcers if it be applyed thereto It is used against the Gangrene also For all which notable effects it hath been called Omnimorbia that is a Salve for every Sore CHAP. CLX Of our Ladies Thistle The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 if divers Authours be not mistaken being as is generally supposed that Plant that Dioscorides mentioneth under that name It is called in Latine Carduus Lacteus and Carduus Mariae in English Our Ladies Thistle or the Striped Milky Thistle Some think it to be Leucacantha or Spina Alba of the Antients others take it to be Leucographis Plinii Brunfelfius calleth it Carduus Albus and Camaeleon Matthiolus and Lobel Carduus Lacteus some Carduus Argentatus and Carduus Ramptarius others Carduus Leucographus and Silybum and Acanon Theophrasti The Kinds Although formerly there have been but one sort hereof known to the Herbarists yet of late by the diligent search and observation of some that have been curious there are found of them three in all 1. The common Ladies Thistle 2. Great milky Thistle of a year 3. The small Spanish milk-Thistle The Form The Common Ladies Thistle hath divers very large and broad leaves lying on the ground cut in and as it were crumpled but somewhat hairy on the edges and of a white green shining colour wherein are many lines and strakes of a milky white colour running all over and set with many sharp and stiffe prickles round about amongst which rise up one or more strong round and prickly stalks set full of the like leaves up to the top where at the end of every branch commeth forth a great prickly Thistle-like head strongly armed with pricks and with bright Purple Thrums rising out of the middle of them after they are past the Seed groweth in the said heads lying in a great deal of fine soft white Down which is somewhat flattish and shining large and brown the Root is great spreading in the ground with many strings and small Fibres fastened to them All the whole Plant is bitter in taste and therefore supposed not to be without good effects The Places and Time The first is frequent in many parts of this Realm and particularly in St. Georges Fields near London in great abundance The Seed whereof the second and likewise the last came were brought out of Spain by Guillaume Boel It is thought that the last is the same that Camerarius saith he picked out of Epithyâ—â—â— and that Ranwolsius gave him brought out of Syria because the Seed and Leaves are so very much alike They flower and seed in June July and August when other sorts of Thistles do The Temperature Our Ladies Thistle is hot and dry in the second Degree and bindeth moderately especially the Roots The Signature and Vertues There are upon this Plant also many prickles and therefore it is good for the Stitches of the side and other Diseases thereof by Signature if the Decoction or Powder thereof be taken It is also very effectuall for Agues and to prevent and cure the infection of the Plague as also to open obstructions of the Liver and Spleen and thereby is good against the Jaundies It provoketh Urine breaketh and expelleth the Stone and is
good for the Dropsie The Root is good for those that are troubled with the Lask and the Bloody Flix it stayeth bleedings wasteth away cold swellings easeth the pain of the Teeth if they be washed with the decoction thereof The Seed is held to be as effectuall if not more for the purposes aforesaid as also for the Cramp and so is the distilled water which besides is often applyed both inwardly to drink and outwardly with Cloaths or Spunges to the Region of the Liver to cool the distemperature thereof and to the Region of the Heart against swounings and passions of it The tender leaves having the prickles taken off and eaten with other Herbs are exceeding good to cleanse the blood in the Spring-time and the young stalks peeled and dressed as the stalks of the other Chardons and wild Artichokes are good meat especially for Nurses to increase their milk which it doth by Signature also CHAP. CXLI Of Camomile The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Dioscorides and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Theophrastus and of some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of the whitenesse of the flowers an◠〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod Maliod 〈…〉 〈◊〉 of the scâ—â—t of an Apple or Quince It is called by some also in Latin Lauco 〈…〉 and Ambomis but most generally Chamâ—â—lum and of some Ch 〈…〉 illa as it it in the Apothecaries shops Some call the Garden C 〈…〉 be both single and double C 〈…〉 lum Ronanum adoratius nobile thinking them to be sweeter then the wild kind which last by manuring will have a good scent as the former Mayweed which is a kind hereof is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Cynanthemis and Cynobotane that is Camomilla Canina and Canina herba in Latin Cotula Cotula Fatida and Cotulanâ—n Fatida in English Mayweed with a strong and no scent and of Country people Mathern The Kinds Of Camomile and May-weed there be ten sorts 1. Ordinary Camomile 2. Naked Camomile 3. Double flowred Camomile 4. Small Camomile of Africa 5. Great Spanish Camomile 6. Sweet Spanish Camomile 7. Small hoary Spanish Camomile 8. Unsavoury Mountaine Camomile 9. Stinking May-weed 10. May-weed without any scent The Form Our Ordinary Camomile is well known to all to have many small trailing branches set with very fine Leaves bushing and spreading thick over the ground taking root still as it spreadeth the tops of the Branches have white flowers with yellow thrums in the middle very like unto Feather-few but more soft and gentle in handling which give a small white seed not observed by many and being cast into the ground will grow as other seed doth the whole Herb is of a very sweet scent The Places and Time Ordinary Camomile groweth wild familiarly in many places of this Land as on Putney Heath neer the Wind-Mill and upon Barnes Common in Surry and else where The May-weed that stinketh not groweth many times amongst the Corn as the stinking sort very Commonly doth The Naked and Double sort grow onely in Gardens The fourth was found by Boel in Africa by Tunis The fifth sixth and seventh in divers places of Spain The Eighth in sundry places of Spain also They all flower in Summer but some earlier then others The Temperature Camomile saith Galen is hot and dry in the first degree and of thin parts it is of force to digest slacken and rarify it healeth moderately and dryeth little The Vertues The decoction of Camomile made and drunk helpeth all panes and stitches in the side the Chollick Stone and wind in the Belly or Stomach and expelleth tough and clammy Phlegme as also cold Humors provoketh sweat brings down the Courses in Women and provokes Vrine It is very profitable for Agues that come of Phlegme or Melancholy or from an Inflammation of the Bowels and for the Hypocâ—ondres that is the sides and that part where the Liver and Spleen lyâ— there can be nothing more acceptable then it The bathing of a decoction of Camomile taketh away wearinesse and easeth paines to what part soever of the body it be applyed besides it comforteth the Sinewes that are overstreined and mollifieth all swellings It moderately comforteth all parts that have need of warmth and digesteth and dissolveth whatsoever hath need thereof by a wonderfull speedy property The flowers boyled in Posset drink provoketh sweat and helpeth to expell colds aches and paines wheresoever the 〈◊〉 iâ—â—n excellent help to bring down womens courses A Syrup made of the juyce of double Camomile saith Baubiâ—â—s but Garden Camomile say Pena and Lobel with the flowers and white wine is a remedy against the Jaundise and dropsie that cometh by the evill disposition of the Spleen The Lye where in the flowers have been boyled is very good to wash the head and to comfort both it and the brain It is said that a Stone which hath been taken out of the body of a man being wrapped in Camomile will in a short time dissolve whence it may be gathered that it is excellent for the Stone if the Syrup or decoction thereof betaken or else a dram of the Salt of it in a little white or Rhenish wine in a morning The Egyptians were wont to use the Oyle made of the Flowers against all Agues by annointing the patient from Head to Foot therewith which is also very available for the externall uses aforesaid May-weed is often used with good successe for the same purposes that Camomile is especially the ordinary sort They are both put into Glysters but especially Camomile CHAP. CXLII Of Sweet Trefoile or Balsam The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but whether it be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 there is some diversity of opinions amongst Authors Most of the best sort take it to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Discorides in Latin Lotus satius or Vrbana yet Matthiolus taketh it to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lotus silvestris and so do Anguillara and Castor Durantes but Fuschius saith that the Greeks call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and the Latins Frifolium Odoratum which is the name by which it is best known both in Latin and English For if it be gathered and kept dry in the house it doth in some sort retain the scent it had growing but against rainy weather it smelleth so strong that some have desired to lay it in their Chamber to be as it were their Almanack to shew them the weather It is called of many women now a dayes Balsam for the Singular healing properties it hath The Kindâ—s Unto this kind are referred thâ—se Four sorts 1. Sweet Trefoile or Balsam â— Strong Smelling Claver 3. Strong smelling Claver of America 4. Claver â— America The Forme The Sweet Trefoile riseth up with one strong round whiâ—ish stalk about halfe a yard or two foot high spreading forth many branches on all sides where about are set many Leaves with long foot
Leaves new sprung out of the ground The Kinds Gâ—rard reckoneth up fifteen Sorts of Daffodills as 1. Purple circlâ—d Daffodill 2. Timely Purple-ringed Daffodill 3. More timely Purple-ringed Daffiodil 4. The very hasty flowring Daffodill 5. The late flowring small Daffodill 6. Primrose Pearls or the common white Daffidill 7. French Daffodill 8. Italian Daffodill 9. The double white Daffodil of Constantinople 10. Milk-white Daffodill 11. Rush Daffodill 12. Late flowring Bush-Daffodill 13. The Persian Daffodill 14. The great Winter Daffodill 15. Small Winter-Daffodill The sixth sort of Daffodil is that which is most common in Country Gardens the description whereof followeth The Form The common Daffodill hath long fat and thick leaves full of a slimy juyce among which riseth up a bare thick stalk hollow within and full of juyce The Flower groweth at the top of a yellowish white colour with a yellow Crown or Circle in the middle The Root is white and of a Bulbus or Onyon fashion yet not without divers effects by which it is propagated The Places and Times The Daffodills with Purple Coronets do grow wild in sundry places of France but chiefly in the Meadows of Burgundy and Switzerland The Rush-Daffodill groweth wild in Spain among Grasse and other Herbs in some watery places But it mattereth not much to seek out their places of growing wild seeing they are most of them to be found in our English Gardens about London and elsewhere The common white Daffodill groweth wild in fields and sides of Woods in the West parts of England They flower for the most part in the spring that is from the beginning of February unto the end of April The Persian and Winter-Daffodills do flower in September and October The Temperature The Roots of Narcissus are said to be hot and dry in the second Degree The Vertues Besides the Ornamentall use of Daffodils for decking Garlands and Houses in the Spring-time it hath many Physicall properties amongst which there is none more eminent then that the Roots thereof do move Vomit whether they be eaten or drunken and being stamped and strained and given in drink they help the Cough and Cholick and those that be entred into a Ptisick If two drams of the Root newly gathered be boyled in Wine or Water with a littâ—â— Anniseed or Fennel-seed and a little Ginger and drunk it driveth forth by stoâ— tough and clammy Flegme and to help all Diseases that come thereof The same taken with Honey and the Seed of Nettles purgeth the Disease which causeth those spots in the Body called Ephelis and Alphus And their qualities in drying are so wonderful that they glew together very great wounds as also rifts gashes or cuts that happen about the veins sinews and tendons They have also a certain wiping cleansing and attracting faculty Being stamped with Honey and applyed Plaister-wise they help them that are burnt with fire and are effectuall for the great wrenches of the Ancles the Aches and pains of the joynts The same stamped with Barrows-grease and Leaven of Rye-bread hasteneth to suppuration hard Impostumes which are not otherwise easily brought to ripeness Being stamped with the Meal of Cocle and Honey it draweth forth Thorns and stubs out of any part of the Body and being mingled with Vinegar and Nettle-seed it taketh away Lentills and spots in the face There are besides the sorts aforementioned the double yellow Daffodill and the common yellow Daffodilly which purge by stool tough and flegmatick humours and also waterish and is good for them that are full of crudities especially if there be added thereto a little Anniseed and Ginger which will correct the churlish hardness of the working The distilled water of Daffodils doth cure the Palsie if the Patient be bathed and rubbed with the said liquor by the fire as hath been proved by that diligent searcher of nature Mr. Nicholas Belson CHAP. CLVI Of White Hellebore The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and sometimes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 without the aspiration quòd cibum corporis cripiat because it deprives the Body of nourishment in Latine also Elleborus albus Elleborum and also Helleborus and Helleborum and Veratrum album Veratrum quòd mentem vertat or rather à verando because it cureth them that are counted mad which were formerly called Veratores and Veraculi and album to distinguish it from the black this being white in respect of that In English 't is called Hellebore and Neese-wort because it provoketh Neesing The Kinds And of this Hellebore there are eight varieties that present themselves 1. Ordinary white Hellebore or Neesing Root 2. The early white Hellebore with dark red Flowers 3. The great wild Hellebore or our Ladies Slipper 4. The small white Hellebore with a white Flower 5. The small white Hellebore with blush Flowers 6. Wild white Hellebore with whitish green Flowers 7. Wild white Hellebore with dark red Flowers 8. Variable wild white Hellebore The Forme The ordinary white Hellebore riseth at the first out of the ground with a great round whitish green head which growing up openeth it self into many goodly fair large greâ—â— Leaves plaited as it were with eminent Ribs all along the Leaves compassing 〈◊〉 another at the bottom from the middle whereof riseth up a strong round stalk with divers such Leaves but smaller to the middle thereof from whence to the top it is divided into many branches having many small yellowish or whitish green Star-like Flowers all along upon them which after turn into small long three-square whitish Seed standing naked without any husk to contain them the Root is reasonable thick and great at the head having a great many white strings running down deep into the ground whereby it is strongly fastened The Places and Times The two first sorts grow in sundry places of Germany and Austria as Clusius saith as also in some Islands of Russia where as Tradescant the elder saith the ordinary sort groweth exceeding plentifully And if I mistake not of this sort was that Hellebore that grew in Anticyra so abundantly that if any one seemed to be troubled with melancholy it was presently proverbially said unto him Naviga Anticyram intimating that there was Hellebore enough to cure him the other sorts grow many of them in our own Land as well as beyond Sea namely the third fourth and sixth especially the third in a Wood called Helks in Lancashire near the Borders of York-shire The first flowreth before the second though it spring earlier out of the ground being not in Flower untill the end of July the rest flower about May some earlier and some later The Temperature The Root of white Hellebore is hot and dry in the third degree The Vertues The Root aforesaid taken without preparation of the Body worketh very strongly and churlishly provoking extream vomiting yet that being dieted by the advice of some learned Physician without whom the medling with it will prove dangerous it is good for
modern Writers backed with daily experience do sufficiently testifie that it is appropriated to the Liver both for the opening the obstructions thereof and then for cleansing and strengthening it so that there is no plant so 〈…〉 raly applicable for all diseases that proceed from the Liver as this For it helpeth the Iaundisâ— both black and yellow being boyled in Wine or Water with other ingredients that correct and strengthen the Liver as Horehound Elecampone Buglosse Rubarb Lign-Aloes c. And so likewise for the severall kinds of Dropsies it is frequently used in Diet Drinks It is good also for the Bowels and healeth their inward woundings bruises or hurts and quaâ—iâ—â—eth aâ—l inward distempeâ— that grow therein being boiled in wine and drunk and so it is effectual for those that are stung or bitten by Serpents and helps them that have soul troubled and bloody waters making them to pisse clear very â—peediâ—y and is usefull in long continued fluxeâ— of the Liver eâ—pecially in old people It is good 〈◊〉 the Srangury and helpeth also the Collick the pâ—th the Cougâ— câ—eâ—nâ—th the Breast A dâ—light of the Decoction taken beâ—ore the fit of an Ague first removes â— and afterwards rids it quire away the Leaves and Seeds 〈◊〉 the bloody flux being taken in Wine The Roots or Leaves boiâ—ed in Wine helpe such as have the Palsy It is accounted a good Herb as questionlesse it is against the Spleen being stopt as also against the Pestilence and biting of a mad Dog The Leaves and root are good for those which are troubled with the Green Sicknesse The distilled water of the Herb is good for all the said purposes but worketh not altogether so effectually as the Decoction thereof Being stamped with Hogs-grease and applyed it helpeth old Sores Cancers and inveterateâ— Ulcers for it cleanseth them and afterwards healeth them and so it draweth forth the corrupt â—â—ater that sometimes happeneth to gather under the Nailes and easeth the aking and maketh the â—ailes to grow againe in case they come off Being used after the some manner it draweth forth thornes Splinters of Wood or such like when they are gotten into the flesh The juyce dropped into impostumated ears causeth them to send forth that which opprâ—sseth them and being mingled with Vinegar it taketh away warts being laid thereunto The distilled water cureth Ulcers and 〈◊〉 of the mouth and throat being gargled or washed therewith The Hemplikâ—â—grimour it good for many of the purposes aforesaid and further it provoketh Urine and the naturall Courses of women and boyled with Fumitory in Whey drunk it helpeth Scabs the Itch which proceeds of salt sharp humors especially if the juice be â—ixed with Vinegar and the outward parts be bathed therewith The Juâ—ce being drunk is held to be very effectuall for curing the Leprosy if it be taken in the beginning and to kill the Wormes if the Leaves be but steeped in drink and taken The â—moak of the herb being burnt drives away Gnats Plyes Wasps c If Countrey people give it to their Cattle when they are troubled with the Cough or broken-Wâ—nded it will cure them and it is said that Deere being wounded cure themselves by eating hereof Mr. Culpepper who seldome hit the Naile on the head as to the matter of Plants attributes the Vertues of Water-Hampe to Water Agrimony which are two distinct things as those which are acquainted with simples can easily tell CHAP. CLXXX Of Liver-Wort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lichen either because of its vertue in curing the Tetter or Ring-Worme which the Greeks call Lichen or for that it doth as it were â—ick thoâ—e stones whereon it groweth 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying to sick It is called also Lichen in Lâ—tine and aâ—so Jecoraria either from the simiâ—itude that the 〈◊〉 thereof have with the Fibres of the Liver which is the Signature thereof or else from helping the diseases of the Liver or both Some call it Heâ—patica but that name is more uâ—ually understood of the noble Liver-Wort which is prized more for pâ—eâ—ure to the senses then for helping any disease The Kinds Though the Common Liver-wort be that which is of most use yet I shall according to my custome give you all the sorts thereof which are seaven 1 Common ground Liver-wort 2. small-Small-ground Liver-wort 3 Cluster-headed Liverwort 4 Liver-wort with a hooded head 5. Small Liver-wort with skinny Heeles 6. The smallest Liver-wort without Stalkes 7. Corke or Archal or Darbyshire Liver-wort The Forme The Common-Liver-wort groweth close and spreadeth much upon the ground and stony places which many sad greene Leaves lying or rather as it were sticking flat one unto another very unevenly cut in on the edges and crumpled from among which rise small slender Stalks an inch or two high at the most bearing small start-like flowers at the tops the Roots are very fine and small whereby it liveth The Places and Time They all grow in moist and shadowy places somtimes upon the ground as the Common sort doth in the Garden of John Smith by Adderbury Church-Yard sometimes at the heads of Springs as it doth at Runghill-well in the Mill-mead of the Town aforesaid and somtimes upon the stones of the inside of Welles as it doth in the Physick Garden at Oxâ—n Corck or Archall groweth upon the Free-stones of the Mountaines in Darbyshire It is greene all the yeare long and bringeth forth its Flowers oftentimes in June and July The Temperature Liver-wort must needs be cold and dry and somewhat binding for the growing in moist places maketh it col and upon stones maketh it dry and astringent The Signature and Vertues That rare discoverer of Signatures Oswald Crollius treating of those plants that are proâ—â—table to the Liver by Signature sets down this both for the â—miâ—itude the Fibres of this Plant and those of the Liver have one with another and the eminent Vertues it hath in all distempers of the Liver and therefore is put into Dyet-drink with Mayden haire Agrimony Harts-Tongue c to coole and cleanse it as often as occasion serves and heâ—peth also inflammations in any part and the yellow Jaundise likewise Or being bruised and boyâ—ed alone in small beere and drunk it cooleth the heat of the Liver and Kidneys and helpes the running of the Reines in Men and the Whites in Women It is likewise very good in the Hectick Feavour and in all other Feavours and Agues proceeding of Choâ—er as also in the Scab Tetter and all other unkind heates proceeding from the Liver as Whiteloves blaines blisters c taking away the cause of them if it be taken inwardly and boyled in Posset-drink and taken it helpeth bleeding at the nose which being suffered to coole quencheth the inflammations of the Tongue Being stamped with Hogs-greafe and applyed it healeth all manner of Sores but especially Tetters Ringwormes and other fretting Ulcers for which it is a singular remedy The water
upon it up to the very top almost the Flowers grow in very long tufts small at the ends and turning down their heads which are small pale greenish yellow burres giving cornered prickly seed the root is great long and hard when it hath given seed of no use at all but abideth the former Winter with its Leaves upon it as also the other sorts do perishing commonly the second Winter The Places and Time All the sorts of Beets except the yellow kind which Gesner saith is to be found about Durachium and Alexium Citties of Macedoina do grow in our Gardens some by their names expresse whence they came thither and so do the kinds of Spinage The Beets flower not the first yeare but having continned one Winter greene they then give their flower in the beginning of July and their seed is ripe in August Spinage sowen in the Spring seedeth within two moneths after but if it be sowen in the Autumne it seedeth not till next Spring continuing greene all the Winter The Temperature The White Beet is temperate in heat and moisture but the other sorts are dry and all of them abstersive by reason of the nitrous quality that is in them Spâ—nach is evidently cold and moist almost in the second degree The Vertues All sorts of Beets eaten too frequently do become nauscous to the Stomack and therefore their seldome use commends them most yet they are very good against obstructions and stoppings of the Liver and do greatly heâ—p the Spleene eâ—pecially the juice of them which is also good for the Head-ach and Swimmings therein and turnings of the Braine if it be conveyed up into the Nosthrills for then it doth gently draw forth Rheume and purgeth the Head and consequently easeth the paines of the Eyes and the Inflammations thereof iâ— it be appâ—ied to the Temples The white Beet doth loosen the belly much and provoketh Urine and is also effectuall against Venemous Creatures The juice thereof with Honey dropped into the Eares causeth the paines and noise thereof to cease and snuffed up into the Nose recovereth the want of smelling if the fault lye therein The broth of the Root and Leaves scowreth away Scurfe Scales and Nits of the head and easeth the paine of kibed heeles and helpeth Freckles and Spots if they be first rubbed over with Salt-Peter and so it helpeth the falling of the Haire and cureth running sores that spread abroad wasting the flesh as they go as also burning out of Wheales burnings inflammations and such like Spinagâ— is of much use amongst the Cookes though of but little amongst the Doctors yet some say that used in Broath or Pottage it maketh the belly soluble easeth paines of the back openeth the breast and strengtheneth the Stomack CHAP. CLXXXVI Of Smallage The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Heleoselium from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying a Marsh and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Apium that is Parsly because it is a kind of Parsly growing naturally in Marshy places and for the same reason it is called in Latine Paludapium Apium Palustre and Apium rusticum In Shops it is called Apium absolutely and without any addition where they follow the Arabian Physitians for the most part who give it no other name but 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 being a generall word as Apium also is some have thought fit to adde to each an Epithite to distinguish of what sort it is In English it is called Smallage and Marsh Parsly for the reason above mentioned The Kinds There be but two sorts of Smallage which I read of 1 Ordinary Smallage 2. Sweet Selinum or Smallage The Form Ordinary Smallage groweth with green smooth and glittering Leaves somwhat like unto those of Parsly but much bigger from amongst whiâ—h riseth up a pretty handsome hollow chamfered stalk adorned with divers Leaves like unto the former but lesser up to the top almost where its small white Flowerâ— put forth themselves in large tufts or â—mbells which turne into smaller seed then that of Parsly the root is somwhat great short and thick with abundance of black strings annexed thereunto The whoâ—e Plant is of a very strong sent somwhat like Coriander neither is the tast of it being raw ever a white pleasanter yet after it hath endured the correction of the fire it becomes much more tolerable The Places and Time Though Smallage doth oftentimes grow in Gardens and that very prosperously yet the naturall place thereof is in wet and marish grounds whence it was first brought and is still to be found in divers places The naturall place of the second is not known for though it be common in Greece and Italy yet it groweth not without sowing and replanting They Flourish both when the Garden Parsly doth the stalkes likewise not coming up the same yeare as they are sowen but the next and then the seeds will be ripe in July and August The Temperature Smallage is hot and dry in the end of the second degree of a bitter tast and consequently opâ—ning obstructions The Vertues Though Parsly be more edible then Smallage yet Smallage is of greater force in many thinges then it for it is much more availeable in opening the obstructions of the Liver and Spleen and in rarifying thick flegmes and cleansing it and the blood withall and therefore the use thereof amongst other herbs as Water-Cresses Alexanders Cleavers Neâ—tle-tops Elder-Buds c. being chopped and boyled in Pottage in the Spring-time is not to be despised though happily some squeamish Stomacks will refuse them which regard more the pleasing of their palate then preâ—erving of their health And though Women are more subiect to squeamishnesse then men yet they have lesse reason to condemne this herb for it maketh their naturall Courses to flow and therefore is good for the Green sicknesse it provoketh Urine also and is singular good against the yellow Jaundise Neither is it without very good use in long and lasting Agues if the juyce thereof be taken especially if it be made into syrupe The same juice being put to Honey of Roses and Barly water doth perfectly cure the malicious and venemous Ulcers of the Mouth and of the Almonds of the Throat if the part be washed or gargled therewith it helpeth also all other foule Ulcers and Wounds which happen to the outmost parts of the body clensing and healing them if they be washed therewith Being mingled with Honey it is very profitable for exulcerated Cancers keeping them from put refaction and preserving them from strinking if not healing them The Leaves boiled in Hogs-Grease and made into the forme of a Poultis taketh away the paine of Felons and Whitloves on the fingers and ripeneth and healeth them The seed is especially used to break Wind to kill Wormes and to help a stinking breath The root is held to be good for all the purposes aforesaid and to be stronger in operation then the herb but especially to open Obstructions and to rid
the third in Africa the fift in many places of Italy in wet grounds it is uncertaine whether the sixt came from the Indies or Italy the seaventh is to be found neere Anguilara in Italy the eight groweth in divers places both of Spaine and France the ninth in Province of France the last in Candy whence divers have beene brought to us and planted in the Gardens of the curious as the eight sort is in the Garden of Mr. Ball by Sion house They flourish in July and August and continue flouring till the frost kills the stalkes but the root continuing sendeth forth new ones the next spring at which time the Rootes are fittest to be taken up for use The Temperature Marsh-Mallows are moderately hot but dry in the first or second degree being endued also with a moâ—lifying or softening Nature the roots and seeds are more dry anâ— of thinner parts The Virtues For fear that either Asparagus or Parsly or the parts of them should through often use by too much câ—eansing or heat cause any Excoriation or other distemper in any of the parts as they passe along as possibly they may and so likewise divers that follow I would desire those that shall be afflicted with any of these diseases to take notice that Marsh Mallowes by the slimy viscous juyce wherewith they abound are of excellent use to remedy the Excoriations or frettings in those or any other parts as the Gutts Reines Bladder Yard c. Neither is this the onely excellency that it hath in this case but it is effectuall as any whatsoever for the Stone for it openeth the straight passages and maketh them slippery whereby it may descend easily out of the Reines and Bladder and to ease the torturing pain coming thereby the Decoction or the Syrupe thereof being taken which is good also for the gripings of the belly the Diseases of the Breast and Lungs as Coughes Hoarsenesse of the Throat and Voice Pleurâ—sy and the like It is likewise very beneficiall to those that are troubled with Ruptures the Sciatica the Cramp or Convulsion of the Sinews The dryed roots boiled in Milk and drunk are good for the Chine-Cough The roots boiled in Wine are good for such as have fallen and bruised themselves and for those that have any bone or member out of Joynt and for such as have any swelling pain or ache in the Muscles Sinews or Arteries of the Body and cures such as are stung with Bees or the like and the distilled water is good for the foresaid purposes The Leaves and Roots are effectuall in decoctions for Glisters to ease the griping of the Belly and the paines of the Kidnyes and Bladder Being boyled in Wine and applyed they help Impostumes of the Throat the Kings-Evil and those Kernells behind the Eâ—râ—s as also Inflammations and swellings in Womens breasts The Muccilage of the Roots and of Lin-seed and Fenygreek put together is much used in Pultisâ—â— Oyntments and Plaisters that serve to mollifie and digest all hard tumors and inflammations and to ease paines in any part of the Body The seed green or dry mixed with Vinegar cleanseth the Skin of the Morphew and all other discolourings thereof The Root boiled in Vinegar and holden in the mouth easeth the Tooth-ach The Leaves laid to with Oyle help burnings and Scaldings and are good against the bitings of Men and Dogs and against the stinging of Bees and Wasps The Oyntment of Marsh Mallows either simple or Compound doth mollifie heat and moisten and is very usefull in the Pleurisy and other paines of the sides and breast The Dose of the Syrupe is a spoonfull or two in Milke Posset drink or Wine which being taken in a Morning fasting is most effectuall for all the griefs aforementioned CHAP. CCXVI Of Goates Thorne The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Tragacantha from the sharp form of the bush whose thornes as it groweth do represent a Goates beard It may be called in Latin Spina Hirci but it is known better by the name of Tragacantha which name also is given to the Gum which is gathered from the roots being cut or broken in the heat of Summer The Apothecaries call it Gummi Tragacanthae in Latin and Gum Dragant in English There is a kind hereof called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek because it joyes in places where water is and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is profitable to the Nerves or Sinews The Kinds Bauhinus hath made five sorts of Goates Throne adding Pimpinella Spinosa or Thorny Burnet for one which doth not properly belong to this kind and therefore I shall set down but four 1. The true Goates-thorn 2. Poterion or the small Goats-Thorne 3. The yellow Syrian Goats-Thorne 4. Purple Syrian Goats-Thorne The Forme The true Goates thorne is a small bushy plant rising up with many tough woody stemmes not much above a cubit or two-foot high divided into many slender branches covered with hoarinesse set with divers long white thornes in a double row amongst which rise up divers Leaves which being small long and round like unto a little wing are set over against one another on each side of a middle rib abiding all the Winter yet falling off at such times as the Spring doth bring fresh ones At the tops of the branches amongst the Leaves come forth the Flowers which are of a whitish yellow colour fashioned somewhat like unto the Flowers of a Trefoile after which come small short upright white Cods wherein are contained small whitish cornered seed The root is very great and long spreading much and farr in the ground which being broken or wounded with some Iron toole yeildeth a certain liquor which by the heat of the sun is presently turned into a tough pure shinning white gum shrivelling up it self into small crooked peices tasting somewhat sweet The Places and Time Though the two first grow in Candy and about Marselles and Mompelier in France and the two latter in Syria yet the Gum that we are to make use of is to be had at every Apothecaries shop In their naturall places they flower and seed in the beginning of Autumne but with us they do neither being very choise and tender to keep The Temperature Gum Dragant which is that part of the plant which is easiest to be come by in England hath an Emplastick or daubing quality by reason whereof it dulleth or allayeth the sharpnesse of the humors and doth also somewhat dry The Vertues Besides March Mallows the Gumme of the Goates thorne called Tragacantha or Gum Dragagant is also good against the fretting of the Urine either in Reines or Bladder or any other of those cleansing Medicines which are given to provoke it a dram thereof being dissolved in sweet wine and drunk especially if some Harts-horne burnt and washed and a little of the best Allom be mixed therewith and so it is available for the growing paines in the Guts and bowels also It is likewise when
Water because of the Strangury or the like Half a dram of the seed beaten to powder and taken in drink killeth the worms in the body and bringeth down Womens Courses and expelleth Urine A Syrupe made of the juyce and Sugar cureth the yellow Jaundise easeth the Headach that comes of heat and tempereth the drought of the Liver and Stomack and therefore it is very profitable to be given in long and hot Agues that rise of Choler and Blood The juyce of the Leaves dropped into the Eares cleanseth the corrupt sores therein and helpeth the stench arising from the corruption of them The greatest use that is made of the heads of the Hops is to put them in Beer to alter the quality thereof and to preserve the body from the repletion of grosse humors which Ale being a thicker â—iquor doth ingender of which it was said Nil Spâ—ssius est dum bibitur nil clarius dum mingitur unde constat multas faces in ventre relinqui It is drunk thick it is pissed out thin whence it appeares that many dregs are left behind CHAP. CCXXI Of Knot-Grasse The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Polygonum quod multis genâ—bus crescit because of its many joynts which name most of our Latine writers follow yet there be some that call it Seminalis Sanguinalis Sanguinaria Proserpluaria from its stanching of blood and ceeping upon the ground It is called in the shops of Italy and other places Corrigiola and Centinodia of the severall properties to correct the heat of the Stomack and Body and from creeping upon the ground In English Knot-Grasse Swines grasse because Swine delight to feed thereon in the North Country of divers Birds-tongue of the form of the Leafe some also call it Pink-Weed and some Nine Joynts of its great number of Joynts The Kinds The sorts which may more properly be referred to this kind are fourteen 1. The greater Common Knot-Grasse 2. The Lesser Common Knot-Grasse 3. Smaâ—l short leafed Knot-Grasse 4. Stoney Knot-Grasse 5. The greater Sea Knot-Grasse 6. The Lesser Sea Knot-Grasse 7. White Mountaine Knot-Grasse 8. Mountaine Knot-Grasse with Stone crop Leaves 9. Spanish Knot-Grasse 10. Small Knot-Grasse of Mompelier 11. Candy Knot-Grasse 12. Lobels Knot-Grasse with Mother of Time Leaves 13. Germans Knot-Grasse or Knawell 14. Another German Knot-Grasse The Form The greater Common Knot-Grasse shooteth forth many long slender branches full of Joynts lying upon the ground with divers long narrow Leaves thereon one for the most part at a Joynt whereat especially from the middle of the branches upwards come forth the Flowers which are so small that they can very hardly be perceived in some of a white in others of a purple colour running afterwards into very small square seed somewhat like unto that of Sorrell The root is reddish long and slender with many strings thereat abiding divers Winters yet the Leaves perish in the Autume and are renewed in the Spring The Places and Time The two first sorts grow every where both by the foot-wayes in the fields especially at the ends of those Lands whereon Winter corn groweth and sometimes by the sides of those High-wayes and old walls The third groweth upon higher grounds and upon Hills and Mountaines The fourth in the same places also in the more stoney parts thereof The fifth and sixt by the Sea side in divers places The seventh in France and Spaine The eighth in Naples The Ninth about Mountaines in France that are neer the Sea The thirteenth about Chipnam in Wiltshire as also in Germany by the way sides where the last groweth also They are in flower and seed all the Summer long The Temperature Knot-Grasse is cold in the second degree or else in the beginning of the third yet it is of a binding quality which signifies that it is dry The Vertues A dram of the powder of Knot-Grasse taken in Wine for many dayes together is singular good to provoke Urine when it is stopped as also when it passeth away by drops and with paine and when it is hot and sharp also and withall to expell wonderfully the Gravell or Stone in the Reines or Bladder Being shred and made into a Tansy with Egges and eaten it greatly prevaileth against the Gonorrhea or runnâ—ng of the Reines also and the weaknesse of the Back coming by meanes thereof The juyce or decoction thereof is most effectuall to stay any bleeding at the mouth and to coole and temper the heat of the blood or of the Stomack and to stay any flux of the blood or Humors either of the belly or womb as the Bloody flux Womens courses both white and red pissing of blood c. The juyce given before the fit of the Tertian or Quartaine Ague comes not onely hindereth it for the present but driveth it quite away as it is said being boiled in wine and drunk it helpeth those that are stung or bitten with Venemous Creatures and the same is very effectuall to stay all defluxions of Rheumatick humors falling down upon the Stomack and killeth wormes in the belly or Stomack and easeth all inward paines that arise of heat sharpnesse and corruption of blood and Choler and is good for inward wounds The distilled water taken by it self or with the powder of the herb or seed is very effectuall to all the purposes aforesaid The juyce hereof stayeth the bleeding of the Nose being applyed to the forehead and Temples or to be snuffed up in the Nose the same cooleth all manner of inflammations as St. Anthonies fire or any other breaking forth of heat all hot swellings and Impostumations all eating fretting or burning sores and fistulous Cancers or foule filthy Ulcers being applyed or put into them but principally for all sorts of Ulcers and sores in the privy parts of Men or Women restraining the humors from following them and cooling and drying up the hot and moist inflammations that are apt to waite upon such sores in such places It helpeth all fresh and green wounds also by restraining the blood and quickly closeth up the Lips of them The juyce dropped into the Eares helpeth them wonderfully although they are foul and have running matter in them and helpeth the Inflammations of the Eyes being put therein The Sea Knot-Grasse is not effectuall as is thought for the griefes aforesaid because the saltnesse which it is supposed to acquire by its nearnesse to the Sea maketh it hotter yet where penetration and not cooling is required it is more forcible then any other The smaller sorts come nearer to the temperature of the Sea kind then of the Land yet they serve to provoke Urine and expell the stone and Gravell by Urine and so doth Knavell where the other is not to be had which is scarcely in any part of this Land CHAP. CCXXII Of Parsly Pert or Parsly Breakstone The Names IT may called be in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as it is in Latin Polygonum Selinoâ—des I say it may
white within and of a good savour White Saxâ—frage groweth with divers round faint or yellowish greene Leaves but grayish underneath spread upon the ground unevenly dented about the edges and somwhat hairy every one upon a little footstalke from whence riseth up a round brownish hairy greene stalke about a foot-high with a few such like round Leaves as grow below but smaller somwhat branched at the top whereon stand pretty large white flowers of five Leaves a peece with some yellow Threds in the middle standing in a long crested brownish greene husk which being past there ariseth somtimes a round hard head biforked at the top wherein is contained small blackish seed the Root is compact of a number of black strings whereunto are fastned many small reddish graines or round rootes about the bignesse of Pepper-cornes which are used in Medicine and called by the Apothecaries white Saxifrage seed and is that which is truly meant by though not so truly said of it Golden Saxifrage is most like unto the before described yet it differeth therefrom in that the Leaves are not hairy but somwhat thicker and of a darker greene colour amongst which rise up Stalkes in handfull high with such Leaves on them as grow below two at a Joynt but three at the top of all whereas also at the Joynts do come forth very small gold yellow flowers not easily observed and seldome seen with them because they fall away so quickly after which come small round heads wherein is contained small round reddish seed the Root is compâ—â—ed of a number of small strings or Fibres Burnet Saxifrage groweth up with divers stalkes of winged Leaves set one against another each being somewhat broad and a little pointed and dented about the edges of a sad greene colour at the tops of the stalkes stand 〈…〉 s of white flowers after which comes small and blackish seed The root is long and whitish The Places and Time The first groweth almost in every Medow and therefore it is called Medow Parsly yet it somtimes growes in up and ground the second was found by Mr. Goodyer on a boggy ground below the red Well of Welling borough in Norhamptonshire the third by Lobel between Chipnam and Marleborough in the High-way between London and Bristow on a Chalky Hill the fourth groweth very pâ—entifully in a feild immediately below the Abby Orchard at St. Albons anâ— in many other places the silt in moist and marish places about Bath and Wâ—lles and in the Moores by Boston and Wisbich in Lincolneshire the sixth seventh and eâ—ght grow in divers Meadows and Pastures-grounds of this Land the last groweth upon barren hills and sometimes upon Walls The first flowreth from the beginning of May to the end of August the second and third â—omwhat later the fourth in April or May at the furthest when it is gathered for that which is called the seed as well as to distill for it perisheth soon after the fifth in March and April the rest about July and their Seed is ripe in August The Temperature All the aforementioned sorts are hot and dry in the third degree except the Golden Saxifrage which is cold of temperature as the tast declareth The Vertues and Signature The seeds and rootes of Saxifrage or Medow Parsly boiled in White-Wine and the dâ—â—oction drunk breaketh the Stone in the Bladder and Kidnâ—es hel 〈…〉 the strangury and cauâ—eth one to make Water freely which also bringeth down Womens Courses and expelleth the Secondine and dead Child The root dryed and maâ—e into Powder and halfe a dram or a dram taken with Sugar comfoâ—teth and warmeth the Stomack cureth the gnawâ—ngs and griping paines oâ— the belly caleth the Cholick also and expelleth Wind. The Cheshire Women put it amongst the Râ—mnes that they put into their Cheese as a Country-man of theirs reporteth The distilled Water is much in use with Nurses to give unto their Children against the stopping of their Urine and to ease the griping paines in their belly which they usually calâ— the Frets It is used outwardly in Bathes and Fomentations to provoke Urine and to ease the paines of the Belly proceeding from Wind. The seed or rather the root of the white Saxifrage cureth the Stone by signature as the learned Crâ—llius hath observed and is singular good against the strangury and stoppings of the Kidneys and Bladder the Powder of them being drunk in Wine or the decoction made of them The distilled Water of the whole herb rootes and flowers which is as effectuall in a manner is familiarly taken by those that have need thereof for any of the purposes aforesaid as also to clense the Stomack and Lungs from tough and thick Phlegme that troubleth it and causeth it more easily to be avoided It is not probable that the Golden Saxifrage hath any operation upon the Stone because of its insipide tast unlesse it be by a specifick Vertue yet I mentioned it because it is esteemed as a rarity The Burnet Saxifrages have the same properties that the others have both in provoking Urine and easing the paines thereof as also in expelling Wind and helping the Cholick the roots or seed being used in Powder decoction or any other way which are likewise effectuall for the windy paines of the Mother to procure Womens Courses to break and avoid the stone in the Kidneys and to digest cold viscous and tough Phlegme in the Stomack and is an especiall remedy against all kind of Venom The rootes hereof dryed are as hot as Pepper and may be used for the same being much more wholesome as Tragus saith The same in Powder with the Powder of the Seeds and Sugar purgeth the braine helpeth the Tooth-ach restoreth lost speech and is good for Convulsions Cramps Apoplexies and cold feavers and so is the distilled water wherein Castoreum hath been boiled which is profitable also for the Palsy and many other cold griefes The same drunk with wine and Vinegar cureth the Plague and being holden or chewed in the mouth it preserveth from the Infection when the aire is corrupted The seed made into Comfits like unto those of Caraway are effectuall for all the purposes aforesaid and so is the distilled water sweetned with Sugar though not in so powerfull a manner as the former which water also beautifieth the face by cleansing it from all Spots and Freckels and leaving a good colour The juyce of the Leaves doth the same and being dropped into the grievous wounds of the Head or any other place dryeth up the moisture and healeth them quickly The distilled water alone or with Vinegar being put into the eyes cleareth the sight exceedingly I conceive I have given to every sort its due properties notwithstanding I find all or most of them attributed to Saxifrage in general and no doubt when one sort is not to be had the other may serve as substitutes they being promiscuously used by divers CHAP. CCXIII. Of Dropwort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉
the beginning of the Spring The Acornes grow upon short stalks two or three for the most part joyned together whoâ—e outer rind or skin is of a yellowish green colour the lower part whereof standeth in a small rough hollow cup the kernell whereof cleweth in two and is of a reasonable sweet tast The rootes are great spreading farre and deepe The Timber or Wood is the most serviceable of all other especially for the building of ships and houses yet the outer part which is called the Sap is not so durable as the innermoâ— which is called the Heart as every one knoweth The Places and Time The first is that of our own Land but the others are more frequent in Italy Spaine and other hot Climates Their long Catkins or bloomings come forth early in the Spring and fall away for the most part before the leaves do come forth the fruit or Acornes are not ripe untill Ostober The Temperature The Leaves and Bark of the Oake and the Acorne cups do bind and dry very much and are somwhat cold withall but the Acornes themselves are neither so cold nor so much binding The Signature and Vertues The fruit of the Oake or Acornes seperated from the Cups do much resemble the Stone in the Bladder and therefore they not only provoke Urine and break the stone but are an especiall remedy for the exulceration of the Bladder and pissing of blood caused by the force of poysonous herbs and corroding medicines as also the virulency of Cantharides being eaten if the decoction of them and the bark made in Milk be taken The Powder of Acornes drunk in Wine are good to help stitches and paines of the sides especially if the powder of Bay-berries be mixed therewith The inner barke of the Tree and the thin skin that covereth the Acorne are most used in Phyâ—ick to stay the spitting of blood and the bloody 〈◊〉 the decoction of the Bark and Powder of the Cups which are much more binding then any other part do stay vomitings or castâ—ngs spitting of blood or bleeding at the Mouth or other flux of blood in Man or Woman Lackes also and the invâ—luntary flux of naturall seed The fume of the Leaves helpeth the strangling the Mother and the bruised Leaves Soder up wounds and keep them from Inflammation The distilled water of the Buds is also good to stay all manner of Fluxes in Man or Woman to coole the Body in pestilentiall and hot burning Feavers for it resisteth the force of the infection as also to coole the heat of the Liver break the Stone and in the Kidneys stay Womens Courses and to asswage all manner of Inflammations being used inwardly or outwardly and the decoction of the Leaves doth the like The water that is found in hollow places of old Okes is very effectuall against any foule or spreading Scab Though the Acornes were formerly used for food yet our Age being able to subsist without them I shall leave them for the Hoggs to seed upon CHAP. CXXXVIII Of Bucks-horne Plantaine The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Coronopus from the similitude it hath with the foot of a Crow which name the Latines do hold as also Cornu cervi or cerviâ—um and Herba stella both of them from the posture of the Leaves It is called Sanguinaria or Sanguinalis and Harenaria the first from its verture in stopping blood and the last from the place of its growing We in English call it Bucks-horne Harts-horne and Bucks-horne Plantaine because the Spiky heads are like those of Plantaine The Kinds The sorts hereof though growing in different Climates may without breaking any great square be brought within the compasse of one Chapter and then the totall summe will be but five 1. Common Bucks-horne Plantaine 2. Prickly Bucks-horne 3. Small Sea Bucks-horne of Naples 4. The small hairy Sea Bucks-horne 5. Upright and creeping Bucks-horne or Wart-Cresses The Forme Common Bucks-horne Plantaine riseth up at first with small long narrow hairy dark green Leaves like Grasse without any division or gash in them but those that follow are gashed in on both sides the Leaves into three or four gashes and pointed at the ends resembling the Knaggs of a Bucks-horne and being well grown lye round about the root upon the ground in order one by another thereby resembling the form of a star from among which rise up divers hairy stalks about an hand breadth high bearing every one a small long spiky head very like unto those of the common Plantaine having such like bloomings and seed after them the root is single long and small with divers fibres annexed thereunto The Places and Time The first usually groweth in dry sandy grounds as in Tuttle fields by Westminster and without the Walls of Greenwich Park on that side that the way lyeth from thence to Eltham and in divers others places of this Land yea it is sown in the Gardens of those that know the Physicall use of it in some places of this Country where it groweth not naturally yet I have not known it eaten as a Sallet herb any where with us though in Italy and France it is frequently so used The second groweth on the rocks in the Island Prochyta The third in many untilled grounds in the Kingdom of Naples near the Sea side The last groweth in moist Countries of this Land on the foot bankes and under Walls and by high way sides especially in thoâ—e places where Hoggs frequent arising as iâ— supposed out of their dung which is the Reason why it is called Harenaria and Swines cresse They all flower and seed in the summer Monthes their green Leaves abiding all the winter The Temperature Bucks-horne is of a binding cooling and drying faculty as the Common sort of Plantaine is The Vertues and Signature Bucks-horne Plantaine boyled in wine and drunk is very effectuall to help those that are troubled with the Stone in the Reâ—nes or Kâ—dneys not that it breaketh the Stone or expelleth it but by cooling the Heat of the parts and strengthening the Reines and Back It stayeth likewise all bleedings and eruptions of Blood whether at the Mouth or Nose whether by Stoole or Urine and helpeth the laske of the bowels and belly and the Dysentery or bloody Flux It helpeth much also those that have weak Stomacks that are so much given to casting or Vomiting that they cannot retain their Meat and this the Herbe doth well but the root more effectually The said decoction drunk and some of the Leaves applyed to the place hurt is an excellent Remedy for the bâ—ting of the Viper or Adder which is supposed to be one and the same It helpeth those that are troubled with the Collick and is held profitable for Agues to weaken their fits and take them away the Leaves being briused and laid to the Sides of them that have them and the Leaves and Roots beaten with some Bay-Salt and applyed to the Hand-wrists worketh the same effects
them if the powder of the dryed leaves be cast thereon The juyce of the leaves hath the same effects whether it be taken out of the fresh Leaves or from the dry by sprinkling them over with Red Wine and is safely used where there is need of any binding Medicine either to heal the Ulcers of the Mouth or of the privy parts the same also helpeth watering eyes or those that begin to loose their eye-sight by reason of any filme or skin growing over it especially if it be laid on with parched Barly Meal The decoction of the Berries maketh the hair black and keepeth it from falling it cureth all the evill sores of the head and cleanseth the same from scurfe and scals being often washed therewith and helpeth them that are bursten The Syrupe of Myrtls is good for the Cough and exulceration of the Lungs The powder of the dryed Leaves helpeth the stinking sweat of the flanks and arme-pits and the sweating of the Cardiack passion The juyce condensate of Myrtles is also commended as a good substitute for Acacia The excrescence called Myrâ—â—danum is of greater force to dry and bind then either leafe juyce or seed CHAP. CCLIX Of Cistus The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Cistus Cistbus also in Latine as if there were no pâ—re Latine Word to expresse it yet some call it Rosa Sylvarica but we in English call it Cistus The undergrowth or excrescence of the Cistus whereof I mean to intreat of also in this Chapter is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Hypocistis is the Latine Name both for the Plant and the juyce drawn from it The Kindes It is not mine intention to muster up the whole family of the Cistus's which is very numerous but only to name such as may be most for the edification of my Country-men Let them therefore know that there be hereof two principal sorts 1 That which beareth the sweet Gum Ladonum and is called Cistus Ledon 2 That which beareth no Gum. That which beareth no Guâ— is divided into the Male and Female To this kind may also be referred 1 Common Dwarfe Cistus or little Sun-flower 2 White Dwarfe Cistus or little Sun-flower at every one of which I shall touch in this generall Description The Formâ— Both the Gum Cistus and the other kinds are woody shrâ—bs full of branches of three or four foot some have long and narrow Leaves as the Cistus Lâ—don others broader rough uneven wrinckled somewhat downy and almost like the Leaves of Sage as the Male Holly Rose The flowers grow at the tops of the branches like unto the wild Rose yet such as very quickly fade perish and fall away In their places come up little heads or knops somewhat round in which is contained small seed the Roots of them all are woody There groweth up sometimes under the Cistus where it is naturall a certain Excrescence with divers upright stalks covered with small Leaves thick set thereon scarce a foot high having many flowers at the tops full of juyce in fashion like unto the Nossel of a wooden Candlestick which passe away leaving seed as small as dust in the hard heads or seed Vessels which is unable to produce the like Plant. The Dwarfe Cistus sendeth forth sundry weak and small branches yet hard and almost woody lying for the most part upon the ground round about the Head of the Root whereon are set by couples many small and somewhat long Leaves a little soft or hairy with other small Leaves also growing between them at the tops whereof stand three or four flowers composed of five round pointed Leaves a peece with some threds in the middle of a pretty scent in some places but of little or none in others after which cometh the seed which is small and contained in small round heads it hath a hard woody brownish Root growing in time to be somewhat great but not very long and divided into small branches at the lower end The Places and Time The first which is the Gum Cisâ—us groweth naturally in Italy France Spain and other hot Countrys and so do the second which is the Male Holly Rose growing also in the Physick Garden at Oxon and the third which is called the Female The two last grow in divers places of this Land as in Stew Woâ—d neer Oxon and in divers of the parts thereabouts as also in Kent yet that with the White-flower is very rare They all flower in the Summer some earlier then other by a Month most whereof are so soon fading that their flowers endure but a day or two perfecting their seed quickly after The Temperature The Ladanum that is gathered from the Leaves of the Gum Cistus is hot in the later end of the first degree having also a little astrictive or binding quality It is likewise of a thin substance and therefore it softneth and with all doth moderatly digest and also concoct as Galen saith The Cistus's without Gum do dry almost in the second degree and yet are of a temperate heat Hypocistis is much more binding then any other part of any Cistus The Dwarfe Cistus's are also drying and binding The Vertues That which I especially aime at in this Chapter is the Hypocistis whose condensate juyce is a most certain safe and sure Medicine to stay all flâ—xes of blood or humours that is to say the Lask and bloody-flux spitting of blood and Womens extraordinary courses and therefore do I speak of it first It is also mixed with those things that are applyed to the Stomack to stay vomitings and to strengthen it when it is grown weak as also with those things that strengthen the Liver to be used inwardly or outwardly It is also available for clammy moist humours that fall upon the joynts or sinews thereby causing a weaknesse and solution of the Nerves Being used inwardly for the Piles it doth wonderfully help for it dryeth bindeth and corroborateth the parts It is also put into great Antidotes against Poyson and the Pestilence not for any property it hath to resist the venome but to contemperate and strengthen the Body This is also a very good substitute for Acatia Ledonum also drunk with old Wine stayeth the Lask or Flux of the Belly and easeth the griping pains thereof proceeding from sharp and Chollerick humours and is very good for all sowre belchings and provoketh Urine It is very effectuall for the hardnesse and other diseases of the Mother to ease the pains thereof and to heal those Ulcers that happen therein by taking of the fume thereof underneath or applying the substance thereof in a Pessary Being made up with Storax and honey in a Lohock or Electuary it is very profitable for the cough of the Lungs though it hath been of long continuance If it be used in an Oyntment with Myrrhe oyl of Myrtles and Wine it stayeth the falling of the hair It helpeth also the pains in the eares
Hog-puddings and might be in Bag-puddings also Pulial Royall and of some Organy The Kinds There be six sorts of Penny-royall 1 Common Penny-royall 2 Great Penny-royall 3 Thick or double Penny-royall 4 White flowred Penny-royall 5 French or Harts Penny-royall which I take to be the same with Upright Penny-royall 6 Round leafed Penny-royall The Forme Common Penny-royall hath many weak round stalks divided into sundry branches rather leaning or lying on the ground then standing upright whereon are set at severall joynts small roundish dark green Leaves close by which towards the tops of the branches do come forth divers rundles of small flowers of a purple and sometimes of a whitish colour I he branches being broken and thrust in the earth which is the usuall way of propagating it for I never observed nor heard whether it bear any seed or no shoot for small fibres or Roots at the joynts as it lyeth upon the ground fastening it self therein so that it quickly overspreadeth the place where it hath once taken footing especially if it be moist and shady It is of somewhat a strong but very wholesome smell The Places and Time The first groweth upon Putney Heath as also upon Barnes Common and in divers other moist and watery places of this Land but for its usefulnesse it is brought up and cherished in Gardens The second is not so frequent as the former yet it is said to grow very plentifully in Essex in divers places of the high-way betwixt London and Cholcâ—ester and in other parts thereof The third is said to be a spontaneall of our owne Land but taken notice of only by the curious The fourth groweth in Piedmont and the fift about Mompelier in France very plentifully The last grew in the Garden at Padoa but whence it came is not recorded They flower about August and sometimes later The Temperature Galen saith that Penny-royall is hot and dry in the third degree and of subtile parts rarifying or making thin warming and digesting The Vertues There is hardly a Country Lasse of sixteen years old but knows that Penny-royall boyled in Beer and drunk provoketh the courses and therefore they have recourse to it as often as occasion requires and if it be boyled in Wine it will not hurt them Neither is it only usefull for Women so long as they continue Maides but when they are married also for if so be a Child should die in the Mothers Womb as sometimes it doth and therefore is not able to make its way forth The said decoction made in Wine will not only expell it but also the after-birth Taken with Water and Vinegar mingled together it stayeth the disposition to vomit and allayeth the gnawing of the Stomack Being mixed with honey and salt it cleareth the Breast of all grosse and thick humors and openeth the passages of the Lunges helpeth Cramps purgeth melancholy humors by Stoole and being drunk with Wine it helpeth such as are stung by venemous Beasts The decoction thereof is good in the Falling Sicknesse Dropsy Jaundise Stopping of the Urine and in the Leprosy Being stamped with a like quantity of Mints and some Vinegar to it it is profitable against fainting and swooning if it be either smelled thereto or a little thereof put into the Mouth and so it helpeth the Lethargy and Falling Sicknesse And if it be carried to Sea and used with the unwholesome and stinking Water which Men are sometimes compelled to drink in their long Voyages it helpeth it much and causeth it to be the lesse hurtfull The powder of the dryed Herb or the Ashes of it being burnt strengtheneth the Gums being rubbed therewith and being boyled in Wine with Honey and Salt it helpeth the Tooth-ach Being applyed to the place that is troubled with the Gout untill it wax red it profiteth very much and so it doth those that are Splenetick or Livergrown if some salt be added thereunto It helpeth the swelling and hardnesse of the Mother if it be put in Baths for Women to sit in and so it helpeth the Itch especially if it be boyled in Water The green Herb being bruised and some Vinegar put thereto doth not only take away black and blew marks neer the eyes or in any other place but healeth foul Ulcers by causing the matter to digest and by cleansing them and so it doth any discolourings that happen to the face by fire or otherwise It helpeth the cold griefes of the joynts taking away the paines by its heat being fast bound to the place after a bathing or having been in an hot house The distilled Water is very effectuall for many of the purposes aforesaid especially for Womens diseases and to ease pains in the Bowels CHAP. CCLXXXVIII Of Southernwood The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Abrotonum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quòd conspectu tenerum appareat for its pretty aspect to the eye The Latines following the Greek call it also Abrotonum but more commonly Abrotanum to which they adde the Epithet Mas to distinguish it from the Abrotanum faemina which the most judicious hold to be Lavander Cotton which I have already spoken to The Kindes There be divers kinds of Southernwood here to be remembred 1 Common Southernwood 2 Great Southernwood 3 Tree Southernwood 4 Unsavoury Southernwood 5 Small sweet Southernwood 6 Field Southernwood 7 Hoary Field Southernwood The Forme Common Southernwood riseth up with divers small woody branches the tops whereof are so weak that they bend downwards again especially for some space after they be shot forth but towards the end of the year they become as woody almost as the elder Stemmes which are commonly about two foot high and in time rise to be almost as high as a man from whence do proceed many small fine and short Leaves somewhat like unto those of Fennell but not so long of a grayish or rosset green colour somewhat strong but not unpleasant to the smell and of a strong and somewhat bitter tast from the middle almost to the tops of the upper sprigges do sometimes stand small round yellow flowers hanging like little buttons which opâ—n very little and after them cometh the seed which is smaller then that of Wormwood The Root is woody having divers strings annexed thereto but growet hnot very deep The Places and Time The first hath been so long a free Denizâ—n of the Gardens that whence it had its originall Extraction is altogether forgotten The second groweth wild in some parts of Germany yet they usually vouchsafe unto it a station in their Gardens The third came originally from the Lâ—vant and is now distributed into divers places as into England Italy Germany the Low Countryes c. The fourth as is said was found in Austria Hungary and the Coasts neer adjoyning The â—ift is found only with them that are curious The sixt is an Inhabitant of the Harcynian Wood in Germany and the last hath its naturall dwelling neer Lintz in Austria Many of them
attenuated but the mouths of the Vessels are also to be opened both which faculties are in Savory as is but now expressed in the Temperature and therefore it must needs be very effectuall for that purpose being boyled in Wine or Water and drunk It is also commended for Women with Child to take thereof inwardly and to smell often thereunto which effect is more likely then that it should help dull and decayed coiâ—ure for that which provoketh the Termes moderatly rarifieth the menstrous blood making it active and fit to nourish the Conception which the frequent desire and consequently the acts of Copulation do many times destroy besides those things which incite to Venery are commonly windy but this expelleth wind yet I shall not be over earnest to presse this opinion because I know that many simples have very different operations It is also a present help for the rising of the Mother procured by wind the belly being fomented therewith it provoketh Urine and expelleth wind out of the stomack and bowels It procureth a good appetite by taking away that loathing from the Stomack which hindreth the same It cutteth tough phlegme in the Chest and Lunges and helpeth to expectorate it the more easily and therefore it is not without good reason used both for a farsing or faceting herb as they call it and to season stewed meat and broths as I said before It quickneth the dull Spirits in the Lethargy the juyce thereof being snuffed or cast up into the Nostrhils The juyce dropped into the eyes cleareth a dull sight if it proceed of thin cold humours distilling from the brain The juyce heated with a little Oyl of Roses and dropped in the eares cureth the noyse and singing in them and deafnesse also Applyed with Wheat Flower in the manner of a Pultis it giveth ease to the Sciatica or Members that have the Palsy by heating and warming them It taketh away the stinging of Bees Waspes c. and being laid in Chambers it killeth Fleas It is said that if a Womans belly be swollen as if she were with Child when indeed she is not Savery stamped and strained with Ale and drunk with the powder of Jet and white Amber and the said Herb with Hyssope and Leeks fryed in fresh Butter and applyed to the back and belly maketh her gaunt and reduceth her to her due proportion and it is like enough to be true CHAP. CCXC. Of Time The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Thymus either 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is given to those qui deliquium animi patiuntur which are apt to swound and troubled with giddinesse of the head or else 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because the Ancients used to burn it first of all in their heathenish sacrifices Wild Time or Mother of Time as they call it of which I intend to intreat also in this Chapter is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Serpitium in Latine à serpendo because it is so small that it spreadeth its branches upon ground seeming as it were to creep and not to stand The Kindes There be thirteen sorts of Time and Mother of Time 1 Common Garden Time 2 The true Time of the Ancients 3 Hoary Time 4 Mastick Time 5 Unsavoury Time 6 French wild Time 7 The greater Mother of Time 8 Rough Mother of Time 9 Hungarian Mother of Time 10 The ordinary small wild or Mother of Time 11 Lemmon Time 12 Musk Time 13 Guilded or embrodered Time The Forme The ordinary Garden Time is a small low woody Plant with brittle branches and small hard green Leaves on them having small white purplish flowers standing with some Leaves in roundles round about the tops of the Stalks The seed is small and browner then Marjerome seed The Root is woodâ— and abideth well divers Winters if they be not too violent and the Plants not grown too great or woody for then they will perish therein and therefore the best way is to slip it and transplant it every third or fourth year The Places and Time The two first grow very plentifully in Spaine the one in old Castile the other about Sevill where they use no other as also in Syria c. The third and fourth do acknowledge no place but the Garden The fift and sixt are Spaniards the one growing by the Sea side neer Alikanta the other in old Castâ—le as it doth also in France about Narbone whence it hath its name The seventh is onely sound in the Gardens of the curious The eighth about Basil The ninth in Hungary The tenth is frequent in most pastures of this Land The eleventh in many places of Kent The two last are nursed up in Gardens only Most of them flower in July or thereabouts The Temperature Time is hot and dry in the third Degree The Vertues Time being of the same Temperature with Savery worketh the same effects nay it is somewhat more powerfull in Womens diseases for being boyled in Water with Honey and drunk it not only bringeth down Womens monthly purgations but is also effectuall to cause those that are in hard Labour to be delivered be the Child alive or dead and then expelleth the Secondine or After-birth The same is good against the Cough and Shortnesse of breath it provoketh Urine dissolveth clotted or congealed blood in the Body and killeth the Wormes in the Belly Being taken with Honey in an Electuary it causeth tough phlegme to be easily brought away and helpeth those also that are dull sighted It is of good use in Meatâ— and Broths to warm and comfort the Stomack and to help both the sick and soâ—nd to break wina It is very profitable in the Colick Iliack and Nâ—pâ—â—itiâ—k passions and most excellent against Mâ—linâ—â—ly and Stâ—ppings of the Manix Four drams of dryed Time in Powder being given fasting with Sâ—rupe of Vinegar helpeth them that are troubled with the Gout for it purgeth away Choser and other sharp humors and one dram thereof given fasting in Meade or Metheglin dissolveth the hard swellings of the Bâ—ly It is profitable also for those that have swellings in their sides and pâ—iâ—s in the Loynes and Hippes It is likewise given to those that have paines in their Eyes and are bleaâ—-eyed The Decoction thereof dissolveth tumors or swellings if they be bathed therewith upon the first rising thereof The jâ—yce thereof being annointed or bathed on the place with some Vinegar taketh away loose and hanging Warts It helpeth those that have the Sciatica applyed with Wine and Meale and helpeth the swâ—llâ—n Câ—ds being laid thereto It is used in Baths to expell Wind and ease the Joynt-Gout The Wild Time or Mother of Time is more effectuall then the former to provokâ— the Termes and Vrine if it be boyled in Wine and drunk It is also helpfull to those that are troubled with griping paines in their Bâ—kâ—es or that have Cremps or are buâ—stâ—nâ— bellyed or are troubled with inflammation of the Liver It
helpeth the Ague easeth the Strangury breaketh the Stone in the Bladder stayeth the Hicket and is available for those that spit or vomit blood Being taken inwardly or applyed outwardly after it hath been boyled in Rosewater it helpeth the Headech and Frenâ—y and if you make a Vinegar of the Herb as the Vinegar of Roses is made it is excellent good to be used in the Lethargy inwardly or outwardly or both and to stay Vemiting Being taken with Honey Liquoris and Anniseeds in Wine it helpeth a dry Cough and is comfortable both to the Head Stomack and Reines and helpeth to expell wind It is a remedy against venemous brings either taken in drink or outwardly applyed CHAP. CCXC. Of Alexanders The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is a kind of Parsly that exceedeth all others in bignesse 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 being a word which in composition doth augment the signification of that whereunto it is joyned as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 also doth It is also named Hipposelinum by the Latines and Olus atrum either because of its dark green colour or because it maketh the pottage wherein it is boyled to look blackish Galen and others have taken it to be the Smyrnium of the Ancieâ—ts but Dioscorides saith the true Smyrnium is another herb of which the present age seemes to be ignorant It is called in English Alexanders Alizanders and Allisanders The Kindes There be two sorts of Alexanders 1 Garden Alexanders 2 Alexanders of Candy The Forme Garden Alexanders groweth with divers large Leaves which are winged or cut into many parts somewhat resembling Smallage but greater broader rounder and more cut in about the edges of a dark green colour and somewhat an hot and spicy tast and a little bitter withall from amongst which riseth up one or more round and great stalks sometimes a yard high and better whereon grow divers branches with Leaves like unto the lowermost but lesser at the extremities whereof do grow large tufts or umbels of white flowers after which cometh the seed being of a blackish colour not full round but straked on the back and of an hot and bitterish tast as the root also is which being great thick long and blackish on the outside but white underneath it spreadeth it self under the ground into many parts The Places and Time The first is said to be commonly sowne in most Gardens of Europe where they have it yet it hath been found wild also in some Isles about our owne Land by Mr. WILLIAM QUICK the seed whereof being supposed to a different kind from that of the Garden when it was sowed proved to be the same The other came from Candy as its name doth testifie They both flower in June and July and the seed is ripe in August The Temperature The Seed and Roots of Alexanders are hot and dry in the third degree of a cleansing and attenuating faculty The Vertues It is agreed on by all Authors that the seed of Alexanders made into powder and taken in a small Cup of White-Wine either raw or boyled is very powerfull not only in moving the Courses but expelling the after-Birth The same is very profitable also to provoke Urine and to help the Strangury and availeth against the bitings of Serpents and breaketh wind and is therefore good for the Collick The upper part of the Root and the Leaves are very usefull to be boyled together in Broth for the purgation of the blood in the Spring time to which may be also added Nettle tops Elder buds Cleavers Watercresses c. Some eat the Roots hereof raw with Vinegar some stew them and so eat them and that cheifly in the time of Lent to help to digest the crudities and viscous humours that are gathered in the Stomach by the much use of Fish at that time It doth also warm any other cold Stomach and by the bitternesse helpeth to open Stoppings of the Liver and Spleen The Leaves bruised and applyed to any bleeding wound stoppeth the blood and dryeth up the sore without any griefe and maketh such tumors as are hard and scrophulous to come to maturity and ripenesse The Roots preserved in a pickle of Vinegar and Salt are a very wholesome sawce with Meats for it stirreth up the Appetite cleanseth and comforteth the Stomach and removeth stoppings of the breast and shortnesse of breath They are convenient for every Age and Constitution especially the Phlegmatick and such as are subject to be stuffed up upon any distemper The seed hath besides what hath been expressed all the Vertues wherewith the ordinary Parsly seed is endued being altogether void of those evill and hurtfull qualities which are said to be in Parsly seed and is therefore convenient and better then the Garden sort if it can be had It is given in Powder from a Scruple to two Scruples in Decoction from a Dram to two Drams CHAP. CCXCI. Of Anemonies The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Anemone 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from the Wind because it was anciently believed that these kinds of Flowers did never open themselves but when the wind did blow In Latin also Anemone and Herba Venti We call them in English Anemonies after the Greek name Wind-flowers after the Latin but the common people call them Emones the wild kinds whereof are called Pulsatillâ—es which because they flower about Easter are called Pasque-Flowers Pasque in French signifying Easter and Pass-Flowers The Kindes To reckon up every particular Member of this exceeding numerous Family were almost an Herculean Labour and is thought would gravell the most experienced Florist in Europe and therefore I shall not undertake it but mention a few of those which are common beginning first with the Pulsatillaes not because they are fittest to provoke the Termes but because they grow in our own Land more frequently I mean naturally than the other and yet are taken notice of by few 1. â—he purple Pasque-flower 2 The red Pass flower 3. The double Pass-flower 4. The Pass flower of Denmark 5. The Wood Anemone or Wind-flower 6. Anemone or Wind flower with a tuberous Root 7. The Flesh colour'd Anemone 8. The blew Anemone The Form The purple Pasque-flower hath many leaves lying on the ground somewhat rough or haâ—ry hard in feeling and finely cut into many small Leaves of a dark green colour almost like the leaves of Carrets but finer and smaller from among which rise up naked stalks rough or haâ—ry also for about the middle thereof with some small divided Leaves compassing them above which they rise almost a span each of them bearing one pendulous Flower made of six Leaves and of a fine Violet Purple colour but somewhat deep withall in the middle whereof stand many yellow threds set about a purple pointel after the Flower is past there cometh up instead thereof a bushy head of long seedes which are small and hoary having at the end of every one a small
Wound herb as well for outward as inward Wounds â—he Juyce or Decoction of the green or the powder of the dryed â—erb is most singular to stay the malignity of spreading or fretting Cancers or Vlcers wheresoever as well those in the Mouth as Secret parts of Men and Women The distilled Water is likewise very availeable in all the Diseases aforesaid as also to wash Wounds and outward Sores to dio the Tents wet Cloatheâ— therein that are to be applyed thereunto If Sheep be suffered to feed long in any such pâ—ace or pasture where Mouseare groweth in any plenty it maketh them to become very costive or stopped as the Sheepherds call it and therefore they are or should be carefull to keep them away from such places lest they grow sick and lean and die quickly as by the carelesnesse or ignorance of some young Sheepherds they sometimes do If hot Iron or Steele or any Instrument made thereof be quenched in the juyce of this Herb it hardeneth it so much that nothing can go beyond it And it is said that if it be given to any Horse that is to be shooed the Smith cannot hurt him CHAP. CCXCIV. Of Yarrow The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Stratiotes Chiliophyllos Stratiotes because â—ouldiers heretofore made great use thereof to heale their Wounds having as is â—upposed learned â—he vulnerary qualiâ—y hereof from Achiâ—es that famous Disciple of Chiron who with one kinde hereof healed the Wounds of Telephâ—â— which hath ever since been called Achâ—llea and is by some used promiscuously for any sort of Yarrow though others restrain it to one only And 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 is added unto it as an Epithete to distinguish it from Water-Housleek or Fresh Water-Souldier which is called Stratiotes Potamâ—iâ—s setting forth thereby the great number of its Leaves And hence it is called in Latine Millefolium à foliorum multitudine a certain number being put for an uncertain but sure it is it hath abundance Some have also called it Supercilium Veneris Acrum and Acrum Sylvaticum in English Milfoile Yarrow and of some Nose-bleed by Antiphrasis as I conceive because being put into the Nose it stayeth the bleeding thereof The Kindes There be many sorts of Milfoile both of the Land and of the Water of each whereof I shall put down some 1. Common Yarrow or Mâ—lfoile 2. Yarrow with a red Flower 3. Yellow Milfoile 4. Achilles yellow Wâ—undwort 5. Achilles sweet Woundwort both which being most like Milfoile are by divers referred to this kinde 6. Ordinary VVater-yarrow 7. Small Water-Milfoile 8. Hooded Water-Milfoile 9. Crowfoot-Milfoile The Forme The Common Yarrow hath many long Leaves lying upon the ground which are subdivided or finely cut into so many small parts that it exceedeth the small Leaves even of the finest Tansey every one of which is a little jagged about the edges from among which do rise up two Stalks being round and green with such like winged Leaves as those below but smaller and finer the nearer they grow to the tops where stand many Flowers which are small and White upon a Tuft or Umbel close together each Flower being composed of five small round-pointed Leaves with a little yellowish Thrum in the middle of smell somewhat strong but not unpleasant being rubbed in the hand the Root consisteth of many long white strings which it sendeth forth both deep and spreading The Places and Time The first is very frequent in Pastures and upland Meadow grounds where the second groweth also but much more rarely The fourth fifth and sixth be strangers yet for their affinity and name-sakes I have put them down though they be conceived to grow in France and Italy The four last grow in the very Water some more frequently than others The hooded Water-Milfoile hath been seldome found but about Oxford they doe all flower in June July August or thereabouts The Temperature Yarrow is meanly cold and somewhat binding therefore it must be somewhat dry also The Vertues and Signature The decoction of Yarrow made in White-wine and drunk is an excellent remedy for the stopping of Womens Courses also and so it helpeth the Bloudy Flux or a good quantity thereof boyled in store of Water being made into a Bath and sate in or over performeth the same It is likewise very good to close up the stomacks of those who through weaknesse of the retentive faculty that should be in the mouth of the Stomack doe disgorge or vomit up whatsoever they put thereinto A draught thereof drunk before the Fit of an Ague and so for two or three Fits together is a good Medicine for it The Juyce of the Herb and Flowers taken either in Goats Milk or the distilled Water of the said Herb stayeth the running of the Reyns in men but it will be more effectuall if a little powder of Coral Amber and Ivory be put thereto An Oyntment that may be made hereof is not onely good for green Wounds but also for Vlcers and Fistulaes especially such as abound with moisture which it may be said to do by Signature the many Incisions that are upon the Leaves resembling those of Wounds or if your fancy will have it be more like unto Haire it stayeth the shedding thereof the head being bathed with the decoction thereof or anoynted with the oyle of it The powder of it being dryed taken in Comfrey or Plaintain-water is of excellent use to stay inward bleedings and being strewed upon any fresh wound that will not cease bleeding it stoppeth it immediately and so it doth the bleeding at the Nose being put thereinto The Juyce thereof put into the Eyes takeâ—h away the blood and rednesse therein and the root or green leaves chewed in the mouth ease the pains of the teeth An ounce of powder of the dryed Herb and Flowers with a dram of fine Bolearmoniack put to it taken three dayes together fasting in a draught of Milk is wonderfully commended by Matthiolus against pissing of blood If the Juyce or the Decoction be injected with a Syringe it cureth the inward excoriations of the Yard coming by reason of Pollutions or extreme flowing of the Seed although any Inflammation or Swelling should be caused thereby as hath been proved by some single or unmarried persons who have been very much oppressed upon this account CHAP. CCXCV. Of Medesweet The Names IT is called in Latin for it hath no Greek name that I can meet with Vlmaria à folâ—â—rum Vlmi similitudine from the similitude that is between the Leaves of this Plant and those of Elme but it is better known to most by the name of Regina Prati which Appellation hath been given unto it because in what Meadow soever it growes it is more perspicuous than any of the rest as also for the divers good qualities that are therein and therefore we call it Queen of the Meadowes as well as Medâ—sweet Some have called it Barba and Barbula Caprae and Barba
where The flowers and Burres come forth in July and August and the seed is ripe in September The Butter-burre flowreth in February or March but the flowers with the Stalke will be withered and blown away within the space of a Month before the Leaves appear which is commonly in Aprill The Temperature The Leaves of the Burdock doe coole and dry very moderately but the root is something hot The Butter-burre is hot and dry in the second degree and of thin parts The Vertues The Leaves of the greater Burdock are said to be of great efficacy for bringing the Matrix into its right place whensoever it shall be out of it for if it be fallen down the Leaves laid upon the Crown of the head will draw it up and if it should rise higher then is meet as oftentimes it doth if it be laid to the Soles of the Feet it fetcheth it down and being applyed to the Navel it suffereth it to stir neither way so that it must needs be an excellent remedy for suffocations c. The said Leaves are good to be laid upon old Sores and Vlcers and being applyed on places troubled with the shrinking of the Sinewes or Arteries they give much ease as also to the Gout Being bruised with the White of an Egge and applyed to any place burnt with fire it taketh out the Fire gives sodaine Ease and heales it up afterwards and so it doth Kibed heels The Decoction of them fomented on any fretting sore or Cancer stayeth the corroding quality but then it must be afterwards annointed with an Oyntment made of the same Liquor Hogsgrease Nitre and Vinegar boiled together The Juice of them or rather the roots themselves given to drinke with old Wine doth wonderfully helpe the bitings of Serpents and the Root beaten with a little Salt and laid on the place suddainly easeth the paine thereof and helpeth those that are bitten by a mad Dog The Juice of the said Leaves taken with Honey provoketh Vrine and remedieth the pain of the Bladder and the seed is much commended to break the Stone and to cause it to be expelled by Vrine and is often used with other Seeds and things to that purpose as also for Stiches in the side and the Sciatica being drank many dayes together The roots may be preserved with Sugar and taken fasting or at other times for the said purposes and for Consumptions the Stone and the Lask A dram of the Roots taken with Pine Kernells helpeth them that spit foul mattery and bloudy flegme by reason of an Vlcer of the Lungs or the like The root clean picked and washed stamped and streined with Malmsey helpeth the running of the Reines in Men and the Whites in Women and strengthneth the back if there be added thereto the yolkes of Eggs the powder of Acornes and Nutmegs brewed and mixed together and drunk first and last The young Stalks being peeled and eaten raw with Salt and Pepper or boiled in the broth of fat Meat is not only pleasant to be eaten but increaseth seed and stirreth up bodily Lust The roots of the Butterburre taken with Zedoary and Angelica or without them are of great force against the Suffocation of the Mother provoke Womens Courses expell Vrine and kill the flat and broad Wormes in the Belly The said Roots are by long experience found to be very available against the Plague and Pestilentiall Feavers by provoking Sweat and if the powder thereof be taken in Wine it also resisteth the force of any other poyson The Decoction of the Root in Wine being taken is singular good for those that wheese much and are short-winded The powder of the Root doth effectually heal all naughty Vlcers or fretting Sores and running or moist wounds the powder being cast into or on them An Oyle made of the said Root is good against all shaking and cold Feavers being applyed before the Fit it scoureth away all the filthinesse of the Skin and is good for the extreame coldnesse of the joynts and Sinewes It is said to cure the Farcion in Horses being given inwardly or applyed outwardly CHAP. CCCIX Of Arach or Orach The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because is cometh up and groweth great very speedily it is called also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Chrysolachanum from the yellow flowers which it beareth for which reason it is called Aureum Olus in Latine but the Latine name by which it is best known is Atriplex yet that which we principally aime at in this place is that stinking sort which Cordus calls Garosmus because it smelleth like the stinking Fish called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 some call it Vulvaria for a like reason but most Atriplex olida or foetida in English Stinking Arach and Notchweed Dogs Arach Geats Arach and Stinking Motherwort The Kindes There be severall sorts of Arach of which we shall reckon up about a dozen 1. The white Garden Arach 2. The Purple Garden Arach 3. The red berried Arach 4. Wilde Arach with small Berries 5. Wilde Arach with flat Rose-like Berries 6. Stinking Arach 7. Creeping Sea Arach 8. Narrow leafed Sea Arach 9. The greater common wilde Arach 10. Narrow-leafed wilde Arach 11. Goose-foot or Sowbane 12. Wilde Arach with so much Seed that it is called All-seed The Forme The white Garden Arach hath divers Leaves standing upon their severall Foot-stalkes broad at the bottome ending in two points like an Arrow with two feathers at the head and small pointed at the end of the Leafe of a whitish yellow green colour and as it were strewed over with Flowre or Meale especially while they are young the Stalke likewise is Mealy or rather Sandy bearing many branches with small yellow flowers on them which turne into small leafy Seeds the rest groweth somewhat deep into the ground with many small Fibres fastened thereto yet it fadeth away as soon as it hath born seed The Places and Time The two first are known to grow in no other place but in Gardens the third came out of Spain as it hath been supposed the fourth from a hill of Narbone in France the fifth groweth under the Walls of Mompelier the seventh and eighth upon the Sea coasts of our own Land almost every where the seaventh was found about Rochel the sixth groweth usually upon the Dunghills yet it is taken into some Gardens of note the rest are found by Walls Hedges and Ditches in divers places of this Land They flower and seed from June till the end of August The Temperature Garden Arach 〈…〉 old in the first degree and moist in the second participating of â— watry quality aâ—â—ost wholly with little earthy parts therein and lesse astr 〈…〉 The Vertues The Garden but especially the stinking sort of Arach is recorded to be of great operation in the distempers of the Mother the Juice of the first being 〈…〉 rted into the prâ—â—y parts of Women
a singular Remedy for the Rupture or Bursting in Children and so it doth being drunk in Wine A Decoction of the Leaves in Wine or the powder thereof being drunk in the said Liquor is affirmed to ease the griping paines of the Bowels and the Cholick passion as also of the Mother if it be injected with a Syringe for the purpose The Oyle that is made of the Apples by infusing them in Oyle Olive is effectuall not onely for inward Wounds or hurts whatsoever being drunk but for all outward Wounds that are fresh and green to sodder the Lips of them and heale them as also to dry up the moisture of old and inveterate Vlcers which hinder them from healing and so cause them to heal quickly The said Oyle is also very profitable for all pricks or hurts in the Sinewes as also for Cramps and Convulsions if the places be therewith anoynted and to heal Vlcers in the Secret parts of Man or Woman or in Womens Breasts It gives much ease likewise to Women that are in great extremity of Child-birth in taking away the pain of the Wombe and causing easie deliverance if it be applyed to the place and being anoynted upon the Bellies of those Women that are barren by reason of any superfluous humidity it causeth them to become fruitful It cureth the Piles and other paines of the Fundament if it be applyed with Lint such as the Chirurgions use It is of great force to take away either burnings by Fire or scaldings by Water it taketh away those blemishes or scarres that remain of Wounds and Hurts being healed and taketh away the paines of the stingings of Bees and Wâ—spes The Female is thought to come somewhat neer unto the Male both in temperature and vertues though the Form be somwhat different CHAP. CCCXXV Of Doves-foot or Cranes-bill The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 GeraniuÌ„ which is a general name to all the Crantsbills whose small heads with long slender beaks pointing forth do very much resemble the Head and Bill of a Crane It is called Geranium also in Latine as also Gruinalis Rostrum Gruis or Gruinum and Rostrum Ciconia for the like reason But because there be many Plants belonging to this Family therefore there be divers Epithetes added to distinguish them as Geranium Columbinum Geranium Muscatum Geranium Arvense Geranium Batrachoides sive Gratia Dei Germanorum Geranium Rupertianum c. We call them in English Doves-foot Musked Cranes-bill unsavoury Cranes-bill Crowfoot Cranes-bill Herb Robert c. The Kindes Though there be divers Cranes-bills that grow no where in England unless they be fostered in Gardens yet I shall name onely those which are spontaneous and they are eleven 1. The Common Doves-foot or Cranes-bil 2. Doves-foot with Leaves like unto the Vervain Mallow 3. Unsavoury field Cranes-bill 4. Unsavoury field Cranes-bill with white flowers 5. Crowfoot Cranes-bill 6. Red or bloody Cranes-bill 7. Creeping Cranes-bill 8. Musked Cranes-bill 9. Herb Robert 10. Great Herb Robert 11. Rock Cranes-bill The Forme The Common Doves-foot or Cranes-bill groweth with divers small round pale green Leaves cut in about the edges more than those of the Common Mallow to which they are compared though they be much lesser standing upon long reddish hairy Stalks lying in a round compass upon the ground amongst which rise up two or three reddish joynted slender weak hairy Stalks with some such like Leaves as the former but smaller and more cut in up to the tops where grow many very small bright red Flowers of five Leaves a piece after which cometh the Seed which is like to a Cranes or Storks bill whereby all that pertain to this Family are known The Root is slender with some Fibres annexed thereunto The Places and Time The first groweth very frequently in most places of this Land both in Gardens and elsewhere the second is found in some Pastuâ—es also but not so frequenâ—ly as the former the third is more commonly found in the â—orn fields than in other places where the fourth is sometimes fâ—uâ—d the fifth in moist Meadows the sixth about St. Vincentâ— Rock neer Bristâ—ll the seventh by Walâ—orth the eighth groweth also naturally in some barren High wayes though it be taken into 〈…〉 dens for its sweet smell the ninth groweth upon old Walls especially those which are capped with mudde and amongst rubbish and sometime upon Slated houses and so doth the tenth but not so commonly as the other the last groweth onely upon Stone walls and in some Quarries whence Stones are dâ—gged They do most of them flower flourish and continue the greatest part of Summer without any sensible decay The Temperature Doves foot which is the Plantâ—l most aâ—m at in this Chapter is cold and somewhat dry with some astriction or binding having some power to sodder or joyn together The Vertues and Signature It is very certaine that the Herbe and Root oâ— Doves-foot dryed beaten into fine powder and then given to the quantity of halfe a spoonful fasting and as much at night upon going to bed in Red Wine or Oâ—d Claret for the space of twenty dayes or thereabouts without intermission of a day is of wonderful efficacy to cure Ruptures of Bâ—rstings whether it be in young or old but if the Ruptures be in aged persons it will be somewhat necessary to adde thereunto the powder of â—â—ne Red â—aailes that are without Shells dryed in an Oven which fortifieth the powder of the Herb that it never faileth It hath also the reputation of being singular good for the Wind-collick and other pains of the Belly proceeding from Wind as also to expell the Sâ—one and Gravel in the Kidneys the decoction thereof being drunk or used as a Bath made thereof to sit in or to be fomented with The decoction thereof in Wine is an exceeding good Wound-drink for any to take that have either inward Wounds Hurts or Bruises both to stay the bleeding to dissolve and expel the congealed blood and to heal the parts Being made into a Salve with fit Ingredients and applyed to any outward Sores Vlcers or Fistulaes it perfectly cleanseth and healeth them and for green Wounds many do but bruise the Herb and apply it to the place wheresoever it be and it will quickly heal them the sâ—me decoâ—tion in Wine fomented to any place pained with the Gout giveth much ease it doth the same also to all Joynt-aches or paines of the Sinewes the unsavoury Field-Cranes-bill are of a neer temperature with Doves-foot and may perform all the properties found in them but it is approvedly good to expel all windynesse of the Mother and to settle it in its place when it is fallen down a dramme of the powder thereof being drunk in Wine It is also good for Wounds and Vlcers and the distilled Water thereof taketh away Bruises and black Spots The Crowfoot Cranes-bill hath the Signature of the Shank-bone and therefore the powder thereof taken in Wine is
some of them being sometimes brownish the stalkes are branched into many long stemmes of spiked Flowers half a foot long growing in â—undles one above another out of small Huskes very like unto the spiked Heads of Lavender every of the flowers consisting of five round pointed Leaves of a Purple Violet colour tending to rednesse in which Huskes after the flowers are fallen the seed is contained the root creepeth under-ground almost like Couch-grasse but greater and shooteth up every Spring brownish heads which afterward growing up into Stalkes doe smell like Câ—â—led Apples whilest they are young The Places and Time The first groweth usually by Rivers and Ditches sides and in wet grounds in every Countrey of this Land almost the others grow in the like places but not so frequently but that which is most rare is the Yellow Willow herbe with double flowers which groweth by Kings Langley in Hartford shire Any of these being brought into Gardens doe prosper well enough as the Câ—amaenerion of Rosebay Willow herbe also doth though it grow not naturally in England June and July are the ordinary months wherein they flower yet some of them stay till August The Temperature All the sorts of Lysimachia are hot and dry and of an exceding binding quality The Vertues The distilled Water of Willow herb whether it be the yellow sort or that which I have described which is more common is exceeding soveraign for green Wounds whether they happen in the Body or Limbs if to every ounce of Water there be taken two drams of May Butter without Salt and of Sugar and Wax each as much also gently boyled together til it become to be an Oyntment and then let Tents be dipped in the Liquor that remaineth after it is cold and put into the Wounds and the place covered with a linnen Cloath doubled and anointed with the Ointment It likewise cleanseth and healeth all foule Vlcers and Sores whatsoever or wheresoever and stayeth their inflammations by washing them with the Water and laying on them a green Leafe or two in Summer or dry ones in the Winter The distilled Water aforesaid is a present Remedy for hurts and blowes on the Eyes and for blindnesse if the Christalline humor or Sight it so if be not perished or spoiled as hath been often proved and it is also of as good use to cleer the Eyes of Dust or any other thing gotten into them and preserveth the Sight The said Water gargled warm in the Mouth and sometimes drunk also doth cure the Quinsey and Kings-Evill in the Throat The same being warmed and the Skin washed therewith taketh away all Spots Markes and Scarres thereof and a little of it drank quencheth the thirst extraordinarily And not onely this but the Yellow sorts also are good for all manner of Bleeding at the Mouth or Nose or of Wounds and stayeth all manner of Fluxes of the Belly or the Bloudy Fluxe given either to drink or taken in a Clister it stayeth also the abundance of Womens Courses If the herb he bruised and the juice onely applyed to green Wounds it stayeth the bleeding and quickly closeth together the Lips of them The decoction or the distilled Water thereof is often used in Gargles for sore Mouths as also to â—ath the secret parts withall as often as there is any Sore or Vlcer there arising The smoak of the Stalkes being burned driveth away Serpents or any other venemous Creature as Pliny saith and the people in the Fenny Countreyes can testifie that it driveth away the Flyes and Gnats that would otherwise molest them in the night season CHAP. CCCXXXIX Of the Daisy The Names IT is called in Latine for it is a question whether the Greeks ever knew it Bellis à bello as some think quasi Bellis praesidium because it is usefull in War to heal the Souldiers Wounds for which reason some have called it Consolida also other have thought that it was called Bellis from the Adjective Bellus signifying pretty for it hath indeed a pretty Flower if it be marked some of the sorts especially The greater sort is called by Bruâ—selsius Bupthalmus and Oculus Bovis and by Tabermontanus Bellium majus by others Consolida media Vulnerariorum yet most commonly it is called Bellis major the lesser sort being called Bellis minor Consolida minor and Herba Morgarita In English the greater and lesser Daisy the greater is also called Maudlin and Maudlin-wort The Kindes There be divers sorts of Daisyes as well in our Gardens as growing beyond the Seas yet because the time will not permit me to enquire after them I shall give you onely those that grow naturally with us they being of greatest use for our intended purpose and they are three 1. The Great Daisyes which some call Or-Eyes and White Moons 2. The middle sort of Daisyes 3. The little Daisy The Forme The Great Daisy hath very many narrow and round-pointed Leaves next the ground cut in on both sides making them to seem almost like unto those of the Oak from amongst which do grow up somewhat high Stalks with divers Leaves thereon but smaller and lesser divided than the lower at the tops whereof grow large Flowers each upon severall long foot stalks consisting of many white and narrow Leaves as the Pale or Border and the yellow Thrummes in the middle of little or no scent whose Seed which is somewhat long is blown away with the Wind The Root is bush of white Strings which abide many Winters shooting forth new Leaves in the Spring if the cold weather hath killed the old The Places and Time The first which is Great Daisy Oxe Eye or White-Moone groweth almost every where by the hedge sides in the borders of fields and other wast ground and many times in meadowes that lye any thing high the second groweth in the like places but not so frequently the place of the third can hardly be mistook for it groweth upon every Common and other place almost The two first flower in May and June and then must be gathered for they last not long but the last beginneth to flower in the Spring and holdeth on most part of the Summer The Temperature Daisyes are held by most to be cold and dry which are the qualities which are required in Wound herbs yet Dâ—donam saith they be cold and moist which no body else doth allow of The Vertues The Leaves of the great Daisy or Mandlinwort made up into an Oyntment or Salve with Wax Oyl and Turpentine is most excellent for Wounds especially those wherin there is any inflammation and which are hardly brought to digestion or maturation as those weeping Wounds made in the Elboes Knees or other Joynts and it is often used in Decoction or Drinks as well as outwardly for the same or the like purposes as fractures in the Head and deep wounds in the Breast The said Decoction being drunk cureth all Vlcers and Pustles in the Mouth or Tongue or in the Secret parts
to watering eyes that are hot and inflamed by defluxions from the Head doth very much help them It stoppeth also the Fluxes of Blood or Humours as the Lask Bloody Flix and Womens too abundant Courses and stayeth bleeding whether it be at nose mouth or other place whether it come by bruise hurt or bursting of a Vein and wonderfully helpeth the inward parts which need consolidating and strengthening the Leaves being sodden in Broth made of a Hen or a piece of Veal It is effectuall also both to heale and close up green Wounds as also to cleanse and heal all foul and old Vlcers spreading and fretting Cancers in the Nose or any other place the juyce and decoction of the Herb taken inwardly and the Herb used outwardly as Pena instanceth in one whose Nose was so eaten with a Cancer that it was to be cut off left his whole Body should fall into a Leprosie yet a Barber who knew nothing but by tradition being unwilling that the man should lose his Nose desired that he might first make tryal of this Herb which perfectly cured his Nose and him And here it would not be amisse to take my leave of Mr. Culpeper who blames the Colledge of Physitians for those things whereof he himself was far more guilty than they for if he he were so skilful in the knowledge of Herbs as he makes himself to be why did he leave the Male Speedwel out of his English Phisitian enlarged it being more common and of greater use than the Female but it seems he chanced to read of the one and not of the other being in all probability ignorant of both for all his railing CHAP. CCCXLI Of Pimpernell The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Anagallis either 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 adducere five ejicere quia adactos corpori aculeâ—s extrahit because it drawes forth thâ—rns and splinters out of the Body or ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 idque ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Fluvio ubi â—ritur because it was first found by the River Gallus It is called also in Latine Anagallis besides which it hath had many other names put upon it put falsely as Morsus Gallina and Morgelina which is that sort of Chickweed called Henbit Auricula Muris Macia Helicacabus Corchâ—rus which is the Jeâ—â—es Mallow Some call it Coralliâ—n and the Composition made thereof Diateralliâ—n others think that it should be called Collarion and the Composition Diacollarion because Piâ—pernel is of a glutinous quality The Kindes There be four sorts of Piâ—pernell growing in England 1. Male Red Pimpernel 2. Female Pimpernel 3. Yellow Pimpernel 4. Pimpernel with a white Flower The Forme The Male Red Pimpernel hath divers weak square Stalks lying on the ground with two small â—nd almost round Leaves at every joynt one against another somewhat like unto those of Chickweed but that they are thicker spotted on the backside with brownish spots without any foot-foot-stalk for they do as it were encompass the Stalk wherein it differeth also from Chickweed the Flowers stand singly or each by themseves at the joynts between them and the Stalks consisting of five small round pointed Leaves of a fine pale red colour tending to an Orenge with so many threds in the middle in whose places succeed smooth round heads wherein the Seed which iâ— small is contained The Root is small and fibrous perishing at or before Winter The Places and Time The first groweth in Corne-fields by Way-sides and in Gardens also of its own accord almost every where and so doth the second but less frequently and hath been found not far from Oxford in Rumney Marsh at Beaconsfield in Buckingham-shire and divers other places the third groweth in Stâ—w Wood about two miles from Oxford and also in Charletown Wood two miles beyond Greenwich the last groweth in a Wood on the South-side of Chisâ—ehirst Heath over against Scadbury Park They flower from May unto August some of the Seed ripening and falling in the mean time and the rest quickly after The Temperature Pimpernel is of a drying faculty without bitiâ—g and somwhat hot with a certain drawing quality The Vertues and Signatures It is agreed upon by all hands that Pimpernell being bruised and applyed to corrupt festered and fretting Sores cleanseth and healeth them and draweth out thâ—râ—s thistles and spâ—inters out of the Hands or Feet or any other part of the Body Being boyled in Wine and drunk it is singular good against all venemous bitings obstruction of the Liver and pain of the Kidneys It is a good Remedy against the Plague and other pestilentiaâ— Feavers and contagious Sicknesses being boyled in Wine and given to drink but then after the taking thereof warm they must lye a bed and sweat two houres thereupon for hereby the venome of the Disease is expelled but it must be used twice at the least the same helpeth the biting of â—ad Dogs and the stingings and bitings of the Viper Adder or Scorpion the Spots on the back-side of the Leaves intimating so much The Juyce hereof mixed with a little Honey and dropped into the Eyes cleanseth them from cloudy mists or filmes growing over them which hinder and take away the sight It is effectual also to ease the pains of the Hemorrhoides or Piles The distilled Water is effectual for all the purposes aforesaid especially for cleansing corrupt and stinking wounds and is accounted mervailous good to cleanse the Skin from any roughnesse deformity or discolouring thereof and to make it smooth neat and clear which it doth by Signature all spotted Plants being available for the doing away Spots in the Skin as Crollius saith who writeth also that it is reported that the Male Pimpernel being held in the hand till it be hot stoppeth the bleeding of any veine that is cut the Flower of it being of a bloody colour signifying the same The Juyce sniffed up into the Nose purgeth the Head and so it is said to do the Toothach if it be put into the contrary Nostrill The Male Pimpernell is said to drive forth the Fundament and the Female to repel it and drive it into its place again Some Country-people do judge of the Weather by beholding the Flowers of this Herb the day before if the Leaves of them be contracted and closed up it betokeneth Raine but if they be spread abroad faire Weather The Germans have a superstitious conceit that if it be hung over the Threshold or Porch of the doore of any house it will defend it from Witchcraft CHAP. CCCXLII Of VVoody Night-shade or Bitter-sweet The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Glycypicron that is Bitter-sweet in English because the Bark of it being the wed in the mouth tastes bitter at the first but sweet afterwards and for the same reason it is called Dulcamara and Amaradulciâ— in Latine Some referring it to the Night-shades do call it Solanum lignosum oâ— fruticosum or rubrum
and therefore we in English call it Woody Night-shads Bitter-sweet and of some Felon-wort because it cureth the Felons which happen upon the joynts of the Fingers The Kindes Of this kind of Night-shade there bee onely these two sorts 1. Common woody Night-shade 2. Woody Night-shade with white Flowers The Forme The Common woody Night-shade groweth up with many slender winding brittle woody Stalks as high as a man and sometimes higher folding it self about the Hedges or any thing else that standeth next thereunto yet without any claspers at all covered with a whitish rough Bark having a pith in the middle shooting ouâ— Branches on every side which are green while they are young and so are the new shoots of those that are elder whereon grow many Leaves without order somewhat like unto those of Night-shade but that they are pointed at the ends with two smal Leaves or pieces of Leaves usually growing upon the Foot-stalks between the Leaf and the Branch like little wings of a pale green colour but some of them have but one and some none the Flowers come forth at the tops and sides of the Branches standing many together in fashion of a long Umbell upon short foot-stalks one above another which consist of five narrow and long violet purple coloured Leaves with a long gold-yellow pointel in the middle sticking forth which afterwards turn into round and somewhat long Berries green at the first but red soft and full of juyce when they come to ripenesse of an unpleasant bitter tast though sweet at first wherein many flat white Seeds are contained the Root spreadeth it self into many strings under ground not growing to any great bignesse The Places and Time The first groweth in every Country by the sides of Ditches and Hedges whereon it many times runneth the second is seldome met with but by S. Margarets Church in Rumney Marsh The Leaves come forth in the Spring the Flowers in July and the Berries are ripe in August The Temperature The Leaves and Berries of Bitter-sweet are hot and dry cleansing and wasting away The Vertues The Leaves or Berries of Bitter-sweet stamped with rusty Bacâ—â— applyed to that Joynt of the Fiâ—ger that is troubled with a Felon hath been found by divers Countrey people who are most suâ—jâ—ct thereunto to be very successâ—ful for the â—uring of the same The decoction of the Leaves and tender branches being infused and set over the fire in three pâ—nts of White Wine the Pot wherein it is done being close covered for twelve houres together which being then stâ—ained is a most excellent Drinke to opâ—n the Oâ—structiâ—ns of the Liver Gall and Spleen and is used with good successe not onely in the yellow but black Jaundise and to cleanse Womâ—n hat are newly brought abâ—d a quarter of a Pint thereof being drank for many Mornings together and if you will in the Evenings also The said Infusion is also availeable for difficulty of breathing Bruises Falls and congealed blood in any part of the body and it is good against the Dropsie for it purgeth away waterish and other humors very gently both by Urine and Stool It is also used against putrid Feavers or Agues and when any bone is broken or out of joynt as likewise for Ruptures and Wounds The Sheepherds in Germany as Tragus reporteth doe use to hang it about their Cattles neck when they are troubled with a swimming in the Head causing them to turne round as if they were bewitched and therefore they say it removeth Witchcrafts both in Men and Beasts bâ—t that swimming in the head is no effect of Witchcraft but proceeds from a naturall cause for which this Plant is a specifick remedy as it is for all such like sodaine distempers whatsoever being hung about the the Neck and that is not farre from the head CHAP. CCCXLIII Of Ladies Bedstraw The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Gallium or as others have it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Galiunâ— and of some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Galerion and Galarion from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which signifies Milke into which the Women of former times did put this Herb as those of ours doe Runnet to cause the milke to turne into a Curd for the making of Cheese for which purpose it is said to serve very well and therefore divers doe call it â—heese Runnet both here and beyond the Seas It is called in Latine Galium after the Greeâ— and that with white Flowers Mâ—llugo in English Ladies Bedstraw and sometimes Maids haire from the finenesse of the Leaves The Kindes There be but sixe sorts of Ladies Bedstraw in all that I meet with and therefore I shall put them down 1. The Common Ladies Bedstraw 2. Red flowred Ladies Bedstraw 3. Mountain white flowred Ladies Bedstraw 4. The common white flowred Ladies Bedstraw 5. Mountain Ladies Bedstraw of Candy 6. Another Ladies Bedstraw of Candy The Forme The common Ladies Bedstraw riseth up with divers small brown square stalks standing upright at first but after it cometh to be about a foot or half a yard high which is its usuall dimension the tops thereof leane a little downwards being most commonly branched forth into divers parts full of joynts and with divers very fine small Leaves at every one set at equall distances like Wood-roof but much lesse and hardly rough at all at the tops of the branches doe grow forth from several joynts many long tufts or branches of yellow flowers set one above another very thick together consisting of four Leaves a piece of a strong and resinous yet not unpleasant smell The Seed is small and black like Poppy seed two for the most part being joyned neer together The root is somewhat red which having many small threds fastned unto it taketh fast hold of the earth and creepeth a little way also but that which maketh it most to increase is that after the branches are weighed downe to the ground by the heavinesse of the Flowers it taketh root againe at the joynts thereof The Places and Time The first is frequently to be found in many places of this Land in dry Pastures Closes and Medowes and sometimes in those that are wet though I think unknown to most but the place that I particularly remember to abound therewith is Butlers Close at Adlerbury Towns end the second was found in Italy and the third in Germany on divers hills there the fourth is a spontaneal of our own Land and groweth in the Abbey Orchard at Saint Albans and in divers other places the name of the fifth and sixth speaketh their Extraction They flower in May and June and the Seed is ripe in July and August The Temperature Ladies Bedstraw especially that with yellow flowers which is most common is dry and something binding as Galen saith The Vertues Though Mugwort be an Herbe noted amongst the Vulgar for preventing wearinesse upon sore Travell and for doing it away after it is contracted
or Corn-rose 4. Wilde Poppy with a white flowre 5. Murry coloured Poppy like the commonest single of the Garden 6. Party coloured Poppy Some spatling as 1. Beheâ— Album or white Battle 2. Elegant spatling Poppy with guilded leaves Others bastard called in Latine Argement As 1. Round headed bastard wilde Poppy 2. Long headed bastard wilde Poppy 3. Yellow wilde bastard Poppy of Waleâ— To trouble you with the Descriptions of every one of these would be tedious I shall therefore describe only the spatling Poppy the others being better known The Forme Spatling Poppy which doth very little resemble any other Poppy but only the Seed and Cod or Bowle wherein the seed is contained hath divers weak tender stalks full of joynts about a foot or half a yard long usually lying on the ground whereon grow many pale whitish green leaves two alwayes let together at the joynts one against another having many times upon the leaves but more often about the joynts of the stalks a certain white frothy substance like unto that is called Cuckow-spittle or Wood-seer at the tops of the stalks upon many slender foot-stalks stand divers white flowers composed of five small leaves a peece with a deep notch in the middle of every one of them standing in a thin loose stripped husk wherein the black seed is afterward contained the root is white and spreadeth in the ground continuing sundry years The Place and Time Many of the Garden-Poppies are to be found in Country Gardens but the yellow horned Poppie groweth upon the sands and banks of the Sea neer unto Rie in Kent in the Isles of Sheppy and Thanet and in many other places along the English Coast with the other wilde Poppies every Corn-field is garnished as also with spatling Poppy which sometimes groweth in Pastures and high-way-sides the Elegant spatling Poppy with guilded Leaves groweth in Womersly field in Yorkshire Argemone groweth in Soâ—â—rsetshire and near South-fleet in Kent The white Corn-Rose groweth amongst the Wheat between Pontfract and Ferry-Bridge They begin flowring in May and continue till the end of July the seed of them is ripe presently after The Roots of all except the spatling Poppy perish every year and spring again either of their own or others sowing The Signature and Vertues The Heads of the Poppies with their Crowns do somewhat represent the Head and Brain and therefore the decoctions of them are used with good successe in several diseases of the Head The Garden Poppy Heads with the seeds made into a Syrup procureth rest and sleep in the sick and weak and stayeth Catarrhs and deâ—luxions of hot thin Rheumes from the head into the stomack and upon the Lungs causing a continual Cough which is the fore-runner of a Consumption The green Knops of Poppy stamped with Barley Meal and a little Barrows-grease and applyed in the form of a Pultis helpeth St. Authoâ—ies fire called Ignis Sacer. The Leaves Knops and Seeds stamped with Vinegar Womans milk and Saffron cureth Erysipelas another kinde of St. Anthonies fire and easeth the Gouâ— mightily and put into the Fundament as a Clyster causeth sleep The seed of black Poppy drunk in Wine stoppeth the Flux of the beâ—ly and the over-much flowing of Womens sicknesse Mr. Culpepper saith that it is the juyce of white Poppy growing in England which they sell for Opium in the Shops though they pretend to have it out of the Eastern Countries where they gather it only from the heads of the great white Poppy but certainly his Pen run before his Wit when he said it grew beyond the Moon for there is no question but that it is so gathered in those parts and should be that which is used in Narcotick Medicines though perhaps for want of it our Meconium which is the juyce of Poppy thickned and is much weaker is sometimes used It is an ingredient of much respect in those great Compositions of Treacle and Mithridate and in other Medicines that are made to procure rest and sleep and to ease the pains of the head as well as other parts or rather to palliate them and make them insensible for the time present It is used also both to cool Inflammations Agues oâ— Phrensies and generally for the same occasions as the seed or any part of the Plant is but if it be taken in too great a quantity it causeth the Lethargy and sometimes killeth and therefore it is to be used with caution inwardly divers have found that applyed to the Gout it hath given much ease and put into hollow teeth ceaseth their pain The Syrup of Meconium or Diacodium which is made of the heads of white and black Poppies a little after the heads are fallen off may safey be given to those which are troubled with hot and sharp Rheums but not to young Children which are froward for if Nurses would keep their own bodies temperate their Children would sleep well enough without it The Syrup made of the Flowers of the red wilde Poppy is with good effect given to those which have a Plurisie the dryed Flowers also either boyled in water or made into Powder and drunk either in the distilled water of tâ—em or in some other drink worketh the like effect the same also is available in all other Cephalicall or Pectorall griefs The distilled water of the said Flowers is held to be of much good use against surfeits to drink it evening and morning it is also more cooling in quality then any other Poppy and therefore cannot but be as effectual in hot Agues Phrensies and other Inflammations either inward or outward but the seed is dangerous to be used inwardly The Syrup aforesaid is thus made Take of the fresh Flowers or red Poppies two pound steep them in four pound of warm Spring-water the next day strain it and boil it into a Syrup with its equall waight of Sugar It cools the blood helps Surfeits and may be safely given in Phrensies Feavers and hot Agues The Seed of Spatling Poppy purgeth Flegme said Galâ—n and causeth vomitings saith Dioscorides being taken in Mead or honyed water and is especially good for those that are troubled with the Falling-Sicknesse It was the head of this Poppy about the time it was in flower which the Greeks called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it doth foreshew as they conceived the success of their love For these Flowers the tops being closed together with ones fingers seem like little Bladders which being broken against ones other hand make a noyse like unto the Bladders of little Fishes being broken If they gave a good report they concluded they should be succesful if not they presently let fall their suit so superstitious were those people as some in our dayes be The leaves of Argemâ—né or Bastard wilde Poppy stamped and the juyce dropped into the eyes easeth the Inflammation thereof and cureth the Disease in the Eye called Argema whereof it took his name by signature which Disease when it happeneth on the
but it purgeth Phlegme more manifestly then Choler and therefore doth much help pains in the Hips and other parts Being boyled in Whey it wonderfully helpeth the Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen and is profitable for the Dropsie and Jaundies being steeped in Wine and drunk It helps those continuall Agues that come by the plenty of stubborn humours An Oyl made thereof by setting it in the Sun with some Laudanum added to it provoketh sweating the ridge of the back being anointed therewith and thereby driveth away the shaking fits of the Agues It will not abide long boyling for it looseth its strength thereby nor much beating for the finer powder doth provoke Vomits and Urine and the coorler purgeth downward The Roots also work in the same manner but not so forcibly but an Extract made thereof according to Art with Wine might be more safe and effectual and may be kept all the year to be ready at hand to be given when there is occasion the quantity only is to be proportioned according to the constitution of the Patient as the learned Physitians can best appoint It is also effectuall against the biting of Serpents the root especially and therefore it is put amongst other simples both into Mithridate and Venice Treacle A drachm of the root in powder given in Whitewine a little before the fit of an Ague taketh away the shaking fit and thereby causeth the hot fit to be more remisse and in twice taking expelleth it quite It is said that the leaves being a little bruised and applyed to the forehead and temples do ease the pains of the head and procureth sleep and applyed to the Eyes taketh away the inflammation of them The Juice with a little Tutia prepared put to it and dropped into the corner of the Eyes sharpeneth the Eyesight and taketh away the dimnesse and mistinesse that is often in them The Bastard Asarum as Matthiolus saith hath a little cleansing quality but a greater property to attenuate or make thin that which is thick to cut or break that which is tough and to open that which is obstructed A drachm of the powder hereof taken in sweet Wine or honyed Water doth loosen the Belly and purgeth from thence tough and thick phlegme and black or burnt Humours It is for very good purpose and profit given to those which have the yellow Jaundies to those that have the falling Sicknesse and to those that have the Palsy the herbe either taken of it self and eaten as in Sallets or the decoction thereof made and drunk It killeth also the wormes of the Belly CHAP. XXVI Of Ground-Ivy or Alehoofe The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it alwayes creeps upon the ground and hath Leaves somewhat like unto the true Ivy yet they are lesser thinner hairy and crumpled as it were It is called also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it spreadeth and is a Garland upon the Ground It is called in Latine Hedera humâ—lis Hedera terrestris and Corona terrae Cordus calleth it Chamadema and Brunfelsius mistaking it made it his fourth Elâ—tine Lugdunensis calleth it Malacocissos id est Mollis Hedera Plumiatica The Shops call it Hedera terrestris and we in English according to the several Countries appellations Gilrumbith-ground that is Gill run by the ground Tâ—â—dâ—oore Gill creep by the ground Catsfoot Hay Maids and Alehoof most generally or Tunhoof because Countrey people formerly did use it much in their Aâ—le and Beer and so they would now if they were so wise and Ground Ivy as frequently although Lobel judgeth the Hedera helix or barren Ivy to deserve that name more properly and some Country people that would have the barren Ivy to be the true Ground-Ivy call the other Maiden-hair but it is only their Opinion without good advice for all that have experience in Herbarisme judge otherwise The Kindes There be of this four sorts 1. Common Ground-Ivy or Ale-hoof 2. The lesser Ale-hoof 3. Mountain Ale-hoof 4. Stone-Ale-hoof The Form Ground-Ivy is a low Plant seldom exceeding a Span in height but it lyeth spreadeth and creepeth upon the Ground all about shooting forth Roots at the Joynts of the cornered tender stalks set all along with two round Leaves at every Joynt somewhat hairy and crumpled as it were and unevenly dented about the edges with round dents at the Joynts likewise with the Leaves towards the end of the Branches come forth hollow long Flowers gaping at the ends of a blewish purple colour with small white spots upon the Label or lips that hang down as also in the mouth or Jawes the Root is small but very fibrous The Place and Time The common sort is found under the Hedges and sides of fields and Ditches under house sides and in shadowed Lanes and other wast Grounds in every place almost the second is found at the bottom of old Trees in some Countries of Gâ—rmany the third is found to grow on Hills and Mountains the last in Narbone and Province in France and in some places of Somersetshire They flower somewhat early and abide so a great while the Leaves keeping their Verdure unto the Winter and sometimes abiding if it be not too vehement and sharp The Temperature Ground Ivy is quick sharp and bitter in tast and thereby is found to be hee and dry it openeth also cleanseth and rarifyeth The Vertues The Juyce of this Herb dropped into the Ears doth wonderfully help the noise and singing of them and helpeth their hearing that is decayed especially iâ— burnt white Coperas be dissolved therein and three drops thereof be put into the Ears morning and evening The Juyces of Celandine Daysies of the field and Ground-Ivy clarified and a little fine Sugar dissolved therein dropped into the Eys is a soveraign Medicine for all pains redness and watering of the Eys the Pin and Web Skins or Films growing over the sight or whatsoever might offend them the same helpeth Beasts as well as Men. It is also a singular good Wound-Herb for all inward Wounds and likewise for exulcerated Lungs and other parts either by it self or with other the like Herbs boyled together and besides being drunk by them that have any griping pains of windy or cholerick humours in the stomack spleen or belly doth ease them in a short space it likewise helpeth the yellow Jaundies by opening the obstruction of the Gall Liver and Spleen it expelleth venome and poyson and the Plague also It provoketh Urine and Womens Courses and stayeth them not as some have thought but the Decoction of the Herb in Wine being drunk for some time together by those that have the Sciatica or Hip-Gout as also the Gout in the hands knees or feet helpeth to dissolve and disperse the peccant humours and to procure ease the same decoction is excellent good to gargle any sore throat or mouth putting thereto some Honey and a little burnt Allome as also to wash the Sores and Ulcers of the privy
a yard long or longer bearing flowers towards the top compact of six leaves joyned together whereof three that stand upright are bent inward one toward another and in those leaves that hang downwards there are certain rough and hairy Welts growing or rising from the nether part of the leaf upward almost of a yellow colour The Roots be long thick and knobby with many hairy threds hanged thereat but being dry it is without them and white The Places and Time These Fowerdeluces aforementioned and many more though they grow naturally in Africa Greece Italy and France and some in Germany yet they are nursed up in the Cardens of those who are lovers of such varieties Gladwin groweth wild in many places as in woods and shaddowy places near the Sea here in England and so doth the Water Flowerdeluce in moist meddows and in the borders and brinks of rivers ponds and standing Lakes but though it be natural to such places yet being planted in Gardens it prospereth weâ—â— The dwarâ—e kind of Flag Flowerdeluces flower in April the greater in May and the bulbous sorts not until June the Gladwin not till July The Seed is ripe in the end of August or beginning of September yet the husks after they are ripe will hold their seeds with them two or three moneths and not shed them The Temperature The Roots of the Flowerdeluce when they are green and full of Juyce are hot almost in the fourth degree but when it is dry it is hot only in the third yet then it burneth the throat and mouth of such as tast thereof It offendeth the stomach and causeth blood to be voided if given in too great a Dose and to weak persons It is not safe to be taken by Women with child because it bringeth down the courses yea a Pessary made of the Juyce with Honey and put up into the body bringeth away the birth therefore it is not safe to give it alone but with good Correctives In gripings of the bowels give it with Mastick in the Joynt gout with Castor in the Dropsie with Honey of Roses in diseases of the Liver with Rubarbe Juyce of Agrimony c. The Signature and Vertues The Juyce of the Root of the Common Fowerdeluce being first extracted afterwards set a while to clear and then put up into the Nostrills provoketh sneesing and thereby purgeth the head of flegme so that though some one may say this plant is not proper to the Nose yet as long as it may be appropriated to the head we are not quite out of our Sphear for it easeth the pain of the head and procureth Rest if it be applyed with Rose Cake and Vinegar it cleanseth spots in the Eyes and helpeth watry Eyes by cleansing them The Roots are effectual to warm and comfort all cold Joynts and Sinewes as also to ease the Gout and Sciatica and mollifieth dissolveth and consumeth all Scrophulous tumours and swellings by Signature especially made into an Oyl called Oleum Irinum which oyl also helpeth the Cramp and Convulsion the rheum that is cold and distilling from the head and being nointed on the breast it helpeth to extenuate or make thin tough and cold phlegm making it more easy to spit out it helpeth the stench of the Nostrils the pain and noise in the Ears and much easeth the painful Piles The root it self green or in powder doth cleanse heal and incarnate wounds and covers with flesh the naked bones which Ulcers have made bare and is also good to cleanse and heal up Fistulaes and Cancers that are hard to be cured It helpeth the pains and swellings of the Cods if it be thus used Take of the roots in powder half an ounce Cinamom and Dill of each two drachms Saffron a scruple mix them well together lay them on a Scarlet Cloth moistned in White wine and apply it warm to the Cods The green roots bruised and applyed to black and blew marks in the skin taketh them away and all other discolouring of the skin whether Morphew or the like but it is better to apply it with red Rose water and a little Lin-Seed Oyl ot oyl of Parmacity in manner of a Pultis Moreover a decoction of the roots gargled in the Mouth easeth the Tooth-ach and helpeth a strong or stinking breath Being mixed with a little Honey and drunk it purgeth and cleanseth the stomach of gross and tough phlegme and choler therein it likewise helpeth the Jaundice and the Dropsie by evacuating those humours both upward and downwards it easeth also the paines of the belly and sides the shaking of Agues the diseases of the Liver and Spleen the Worms in the belly the Stone in the Reins Convulsions or Cramps that come of cold humours and helpeth those whose seed passeth from them unawares It is a remedy against the bitings and stingings of venemous Creatures being boyled in water and Vinegar and drunk being boyled in Wine and drunk it provoketh Urine and the Cholick An Electuary made hereof called Dia-ireos Solomonis is very good for the Lungs and helps cold infirmities of them as Asthmaes Coughs difficulty of breathing c. You may take it with a Liquoris stick or on the point of a knife a little of it at a time and often CHAP. XXXIIII Of Hors-tail The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Hippuris in Latine also by divers Equâ—setum or Cauda Equina which is the same with Hippuris of the forme oâ— an Horsetail which the stalk of leaves being turned downwards doth resemble By other names it is likewise called as Equinalis and by Pliny Equâ—sclis and of some Salix Equina and Sangu nalis from the powerfull efficâ—cy it hath to stench blood and of others Asprella because of its ruggednesse which hath not formerly been unknown to Country Houâ—wives who with the rougher kind hereof called in English Shavegrass did as now with Elder Leaves but more effectually scowre their Pewter Brass and Woodâ—en Vessels and therefore it hath been by some of them called Pewterwort but I think that piece of thriftinesse with many other are laid aside which might profitably be revived if they knew it Of some it is called Ephedra Anabasis and Caucon Fletchers also and Combe makers polish their work therewith The Kindes There be hereof fourteen sorts mentioned by modern Writers 1. The greater Marsh Horsetail 2. Broad leafed Horsetail 3. Small Marsh Horsetail 4. Barren Marsh Horsetail 5. The smallest and finest leafed Horsetail 6. Many headed Horsetail 7. Rush or naked Horsetail 8. Branched Rush Horsetail 9. Small party coloured Horsetail 10. Stinking Horsetail 11. The great Meadow Horse-tail 12. Corn Horsetail 13. Wood Horsetail 14. Mountain Horsetail of Candy The Form The greater Horsetail that groweth in wet grounds at the first springing hath heads somewhat like to those of Asparagus and after grow to be hard rough hollow stalks joynted at sundry places up to the top a foot high so made as if the lower part
be drunk with Wine and it preventeth the fits of Agues if it be taken one home before the fit It cureth creeping and running sores Fistulaes spitting of blood and matter the holy fire swellings and hardness Shingles heat of the stomach new wounds hot Imposthumes and rheumatick sores and all other kind of Fluxes CHAP. XXXVI Of Willow The Names AFter so many Herbs it will not be amiss to bring in a Tree which though in form hath little yet in vertue hath some affinity The Willow is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod cito in altum excrescat and Salix a Saliendo in Latine because it groweth with that speed that it seemeâ—h to leap There is a greater sort which is called in English Sallow VVithy and VVillow and there is a lesser sort called Osier small VVithy and Twig Withy Petrus Crescentius calleth it Vincus a vinciendo because it is necessary to bind Faggots or any other Commodities that stand in need thereof The Kindes Many are the sorts of this Plant which Authours reckon up whereof I shall set down only those which I conceive to grow in our own Country and they are 1. The ordinary great white Willow-Tree 2. The ordinary black Willow 3. The Rose Willow 4. The hard black Willow 5. The black Withy 6. The round leafed Sallow 7. The longer leafed Sallow 8. The lesser broad Willow 9. The silver leafed Sallow 10. The upright low broad Willow 11. Creeping broad leafed Willow 12. The least red or stone Willow 13. The least Willow without fruit 14. The Osier 15. The straight dwarf Willow with narrow Leaves 16. Creeping low Willow with narrow Leaves 17. The black low Willow 18. Willow Bay I shall describe only the first that by it you may guesse at the rest The Forme The ordinary white Willow groweth quickly to be a great and tall Tree if it be not lopped as it is usuall in most places with a smooth white bark on the body and bigger branches the younger sprigs being somewhat green with the whitenesse the Leaves are long and narrow pale green on the upper side and of a shining silver white colour underneath without any dent on the edges the Flowers come out before the Leaves appeare and are small long and round yellow mossie heads smelling sweet for the most part divers standing one above another upon a long stalk which in time turn to down that is blown away by the winde and the Seed with it if it hath any The wood is soft and white and with the branches hereof are made stakes for hedges or to uphold Vines c. The Places and Time Most of these Willows are common and to be sound in low grounds near Water Courses and ditches the Rose Willow in sundry places of Essex and Cambridgeshire others on Hamsteed-Heath Rumney Marsh and the like The Osier is alwayes in the low grounds that are often overflowen where it will only thrive The Blossoms come forth before any Leaves appear and are in their most flourishing estate usually before Easter divers gathering them to deck up their houses on Palm Sunday and therefore the said Flowers are called Palme The Temperature The Leaves Flowers Seed and Bark of Willows are cold and dry in the second degree and astringent The Vertues and Signature The Leaves and Bark of Willow but especially the Catkins are used with good successe to stanch bleeding of wounds and at the mouth or nose and spitting of blood as also all other fluxes of blood in man or woman and likewise to stay casting and the desire thereunto if the decoction of them in Wine be drunk It helpeth also to stay thin hot and sharp salt distillations from the head upon the Lungs causing a Consumption The Leaves bruised with some Pepper and drunk in Wine do much help the Wind-Cholick The Leaves only bruised and boyled in Wine and drunk do much stay the heat of lust and wholly exstinguish it both in man and woman if it be much used the Catkins also are of the like effect The water that is gathered from the Willow whilest it flowreth the Bark being slit and a Vessel apt to receive it being fitted to it is very good for rednesse and dim eye-sight and Films that begin to grow over them and stay the Rheums that fall into them to provoke Urine being stopped if it be drunk and to clear the face and skin of any spots or discolourings if washed therewith The Flowers saith Galen have a stronger effect to dry up any Flux or humour being a Medicine without any sharpnesse and the Bark much more as all Barks do but if the Bark be burnt and used it doth yet dry more forcibly and being mixed with Vinegar it taketh away Warts and Corns and other the like callous flesh that groweth on the hands or feet or other parts The decoctions of the Leaves and Bark in Wine is good to bath the Sinews as also the places pained with the Gout and to cleanse the Head or other parts of scurf The Juyce of the Leaves and green Bark mingled with some Rose-water and heated in the Rhind of a Pomegranet is singular good to help deafness to be dropped into the Ears The Seed of the black Willow mixed with Litharge of Silver in equall quantity made into an Ointment and used on any place where the hair groweth that you would take away after it hath been bathed well before or else in the bain or Stove doth cause it to fall away This Plant is not propagated by Seed but any stick thereof though almost withered being fixed in the Earth groweth which Signature doth truly declare that a Bath made of the decoction of the Leaves and Bark of Willow restoreth again withered and dead Members to their former strength if they be nourished with the fomentation thereof CHAP. XXXVII Of Bistort The Names BY what Name the Grecians called this Plant is not known but amongst the Latines it hath divers It is called Bistorta quod radice in se serpentis modo contorta convoluta constet by Fragus Leonicerous and others and Colâ—brina of the similitude the Root hath with a Serpent rouling it self up together Parkinson saith that Fuschius calleth it Serpentaria quod venenosorum serpentium ictibus succurrit which though it happily performeth yet Fuschius giveth it no such Etymology as I can finde but very much blameth those Herbatists and Apothecaries which call it so Serpentaria being an Herb much differing from this both in form and vertue which the Greeks call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and the Latines Dracunculus and Serpentaria which we in English call Dragons but Bistort is not called Dragons but Snakeweed The Kindes All the Bistorts that I can find are not above six 1. Common Bistort or Snakeweed 2. Bistort with more crooked Roots 3. Great Mountain Bistort 4. Small Bistort of our own Country 5. Small Bistort of the Alps. 6. Variable leafed small Bistort The Forme Common Bistort
it easeth the pains of the Ears and taketh away the roughnesse of the tongue being rubbed thereupon and if it be laid to the forehead or Temples it easeth the pains of the head and the water wherein good store of it hath been boyled is good to wash the heads of young Children against all manner of breakingins out them whether sores or scabs and healeth the Chaps of the Fundament Two or three branches thereof taken with the Juyce of Pomgranats stayeth the Hiccough Vomiting and allayeth Choler it dissolveth Impostumes being laid to with Barly Meal It is good to represse the milk in Womens breasts and for such as have swollen â—â—agging or great breasts Simeon Sethâ— saith it helpeth a cold Liver strengthneth the Belly and Stomach causeth digestion is good against the gnawings of the Heart provoketh Appetite taketh away Obstructions of the Liver and stirreth up bodily Lust but thereof too much must not be taken because it maketh the blood thin and wheyish and turneth it into Choler and therefore Cholerick persons must abstain from it It is a safe medicine for the biting of a mad Dog being bruised with salt and laid thereon The powder of it being taken after meat helpeth digestion and those that are Splenetick taken in wine it helpeth women in their sore Travel in Child-bearing It is good also against the Gravel and Stone in the Kidnies and the Stangury It suffereth not milk to curdle in the Stomach if the leaves hereof be sâ—eeped or boyled in it before you drink it and some say that it will never be drawn to Curds though you put Rennet thereunto The distilled water of mints is available for all the purposes aforesaid yet more weakly But if a Spirit thereof be rightly and Chimically drawn it is much more powerful then the herb it self The Vertues of wild mint are especially to dissolve wind in the Stomach to help the Cholick and those that are short winded and are an especial remedy for those that have Venereous dreams and pollutions in the night being outwardly applyed to the Testicles or Cods The Juyce dropped in the Ears easeth the paines of them and destroyeth the Worms that breed in them they are good against the venemous bitings of Serpents and help the Kings Evill or kernels in the Throat if the Juyce be laid on warm The decoction or distilled water helpeth a stinking breath proceeding from the corruption and snuffed up into the Nose purgeth the head CHAP. XLVI Of Purslane The Names THis Herb is called by Dioscorides in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Andrachne and by Theophrastus 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Adrachne and so each of them call the Arbutus or Strawberry-Tree which some call Portulaca Arbor in Latine as also they call this Herb Portulaca Herba In English Purslane and Porcellain Sea-Purslane is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Portulaca marina The Kindes There be not many sorts of Purslane in all and therefore I will put them together 1. Garden Purslane 2. Wild Purslane 3. Camerarius his Purslane 4. Candy Purslane 5. Sea-Purslane The Form The Garden Purslane hath round thick somewhat red stalks full of juyce smooth glittering and parted into severall branches trailing upon the ground the Leaves be almost an inch long if it grow in ranck ground something broad thick fat glib and somewhat green whiter on the neather side the Flowers are little of a faint yellow colour and grow out at the bottom of the Leaves After them springeth up a little Husk of a green colour of the bigness almost of half a Barley-Corn in which is small black Seed the Root hath many strings The Places and Time The first is sowen in Gardens and delighteth to grow in a fruitful and fat soâ—l not dry The second groweth about Ramsey Meere in the foot-paths by the Rape-Mills The third was found about Lipswick by Camerarius who as he himself affirmeth was the first that made it known The other should come out of Candy by its Title Sea-Purslane groweth in the Salt Marshes near the Sea-side as you passe over the Kings Ferry into the Isle of Sheepey going to Sherland-House and in the Isle of Thanet as you go from Margate to Sandwich and in many other places along the Coast Garden-Purslane may be sowen in March or April it flourisheth and is green in June and afterwards till it be towards Michaelmas Sea-Purslane is a little shrub which beareth out the Winter with the losse of a few Leaves and Flowers in July The Temperature Purslane is cold and that in the third degree and moyst in the second but VVild Purslane is not so moyst Sea-Purslane is as Galen saith of unlike parts but the greater part thereof is hot in a mean with a moysture unconcocted and somewhat windy The Vertues and Signature Raw Purslane is much used in Sallets with Oil Salt and Vinegar it cooleth an hot stomach and provoketh appetite It cooleth the mouth also and taketh away the pain of the Teeth and asswageth the swellings of the Gums and fasteneth the teeth in them and is good for teeth that are set on edge with eating of sharp things It is likewise good to cool any heat in the Liver blood or Reins and in hot Agues there is nothing better It stayeth hot and cholerick Fluxes of the Belly Womens Courses and Gonorrhea or running of the Reins of which it hath the Signature the distillations from the head and pains therein proceeding of heat want of sleep or the Phrensie The seed is more effectual then the Herb and is of singular good use to cool the heat and sharpness of the Urine and the outragious lust of the body venereous Dreams and the like insomuch that the over-frequent use thereof extinguisheth the heat and vertue of natural procreation The Seed bruised and boyled in Wine and given to Children expelleth the Worms The juyce of the Herb is held as effectual to all the purposes aforesaid as also to stay vomitings and taken with some Sugar or Honey helpeth an old and dry Cough shortness of breath and the Ptisick and stayeth immoderate thirst It is also singular good in the Inflammations and Ulcers of the secret parts in Man or Woman as also of the Bowels and Hemorrhoides when they are ulcerous or excotiations in them The Herb bruised and applyed to the forehead and Temples allayeth excessive heat therein hindering rest and sleep and aâ—plyed to the Eyes taketh away the redness and inflammation in them and thosâ— other parts where Pushes Wheals Pimples St. Anthonies fire and the like bâ—eâ—k forth especially if a little Vinegar be put to it And being laid to the neck with as much of Galls and Linseea together taketh away the pains therein and the Crick in the Neck The juyce is used with Oyl of Roses for the said Causes or for blastings by lightening and burnings by Gunpowder or for Womens sore Breasts and to allay the heat in all other sores or hurts Applyed
GArden-Cresse is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 being a comforter to the heart as some suppose but others think it to be so called quasi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod acrimonia ignea vi praeditum caput tentat and thereupon the Greeks had this Proverb 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Ede nasturtium because heating the head with its fiery vertue they would therefore bid a man that was dull and heavy eat it to stir up his Spirits it being effectuall to this purpose The Latines call it Nasturtium a Narium tormento as Pliny saith and some after the Italians call it Cressio hortensis but in English it is called Cresse being a name borrowed of the Germans who call it Kersse VVater-Cresse is called Nasturtium Aquaticum VVinter-cresse is commonly called Barbarea Lady Smocks which are also a kind hereof are called Cardamine sive Nasturtium pratense The Kindes J shall reckon up the chief sorts of each Of Garden-cresse 1. Great Spanish Cresse 2. Curled Cresse with larger and lesser Leaves 3. Ordinary Garden Cresses 4. Stone Cresse Of VVater-cresse 1. Common Water-Cresse 2. Italian VVater-Cresse 3. Bitter VVater-Cresse 4. Sweet smelling VVater-Cresse Of VVinter-cresse which some will have to be a kind of Rocket 1. Common VVinter Rocket or Cresse 2. Double floured VVinter Cresse 3. Small VVinter Cresse Of Lady-Smocks which is also a Nasturtium 1. Great Lady-Smocks 2. Small Lady-Smocks 3. Small flowred Lady-Smocks 4. Tuberous rooted sweet Lady-Smocks 5. Small jagged Lady-Smocks I have put these all together in a Chapter because they are all effectuall for curing the Scurvy but for as much as the Water-Cresse is chiefly commended for the said purpose I shall describe that The Forme Water-cresse hath many fat and weak hollow branches trailing upon the Gravell and Earth where it groweth taking hold and rooting in sundry places as it creepeth by means whereof the Plant spreadeth over a great compass of ground The Leaves are likewise compact and winged with many small Leaves set upon a middle Rib one against another except the point Leaf which standeth by himself as doth that of the Ash if it grow in its naturall place which is in a gravelly spring The upper part of the whole Plant is of a brown colour and green under the Leaves which is a perfect mark to know the Physicall kinds from the other The white Flowers grow in spoaky roundels The Roots is nothing else but as it were a Thrum or bundle of Threds The Places and Time The first of the first sort was brought out of Spain as for the other three their Originall is unknown but they are all four planted in our Gardens All the Water-cresses do grow about ponds and other watery places but those that grow in the shallow running streams of the most clear Fountains and gravelly Springs are of greatest use in Physick The common Winter-cresse groweth often times of its own accord in Gardens and in the Fields also by the paths and way-sides in divers places and by name on the brook sides in Lady Meade near Adderbury in Oxfordshire That with double Flowers was sound in the Province of Berne among the Switzers and the last in Gardens only both with us and in Germany The three first sorts of Lady Smocks are found in divers places of our Land in moyst Meadows and near unto brook sides or the small Rills of water that passe through the low grounds the others are of Germany The first sort to wit the Garden-cresses flowre about June and July and so do the Water-cresses but it is most useful for all purposes in March for then it is best Winter-cresses flower in May and the single ones do seed in June but the double abideth grâ—en without seeding both Summer and Winter The Lady Smocks do commonly flowre about April but there is the Impatient Lady Smock growing in Gardens which flowreth in February The Temperature The common Garden-cresse is very hot and dry but especially the Seed near unto the fourth Degree Water-cresse Winter-cresse and Lady Smocks are hot and dry in the second Degree The Vertues All these Plants tend to the cure of the Scurvy but especially the Water-cresse which is very much commended upon this account The Garden-cresse being green and therefore the more qualified by reason of its humiâ—ity is eaten by Country people either alone with Butter or with Lettice and Purssane in Sallets or otherwise It cutteth grosse flegme and make it apt to expectorate it provoketh Urine cleanseth the Reins and Bladder procureth Womens Courses killeth the birth and stirreth up Venery Some say it looseneth the Belly and purgeth it from viscous humours it helpeth the Obstructions of the Liver and Spleen and healeth all inward wounds and driveth forth poyson and venome Being taken with Oyl it is beneficiall for the Cough and shortnesse of Wind and the pains of the Breast and Chest and being chewed in the mouth it helpeth the Tooth-ach The Leaves bruised and applyed take away all Freckles Pimples spots and marks of the Body helpeth the Itch and easeth the pains of the Sciatica and of the Loins draweth forth bones splinters and thorns stayeth the corroding and creeping Ulcers the Seed chewed in the mouth helpeth the Palsie in the Tongue provoketh sneesing raiseth Lethargick people and such as are drowsie and heavy by quickening their blood and spirits Being boyled with Vinegar and applyed to the Kernels of the Throat healeth the Kings Evill and healeth also the Scabs and Sores of the head if they be anointed with it and Goose-grease mixed together It ripeneth also the Plague-sores and breaketh them and taketh away the deformity of the Nails The Water-cresse is good for many of the purposes aforesaid and is used particularly to make broth for purging the blood in the Spring and for preventing any of these Diseases which might ensue It breaketh the Stone and so doth Winter-cresse and perform most of the Cures aforesaid And it is used as other Cresses and Rocket in Summer so this in Winter with as great desire and content to be eaten when variety of Sallets are not to be had The Lady Smocks are as effectuall in the Scurvy as the Water-cresses And so much for such Plants as cure the Scurvy CHAP. LI. Of the Pine Tree The Names IN the next place the Teeth require a little more particular notice which you will find we take of them if you read some of the ensuing Chapters First then of the Pine Tree which in Greek is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Pinns the Cones are called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Cont and the Ancienter Greeks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but now the Kernels are so called they being named 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Pityides formerly The Kinds Ten sorts hereof may be reckoned up 1. The manured Pine Tree 2. The fruitful wild Pine Tree 3. The soft-sheld wild Pine Tree 4. The low wild barren Pine Tree 5. The taller barren wild Pine Tree 6.
substance after it is kept a while out of the water but plyable whilst it is there The Place and Time Most of these Coralls are found about Marcelles and the Isle of Sardinia and other places of the Mediterranean Sea but seldom on this side unlesse it be upon the Rocks on the west side of England about St. Michaels Mount where Gerard saith that white and yellow Corall do grow They are to be found growing at all times of the year The Temperature All the Sorts of Corall do cool and bind yet the white is thought to be of a colder operation then the red or black The Signature and Vertues The substance both of red and white Corall commeth very near to that of the Teeth but the white being nearest in colour may more properly be said to have their Signature yet we find that the red also is very useful in all the accidents that belong to them As first it helpeth Children to breed their Teeth their Gums being rubbed therewith and to that purpose they have it fastened at the ends of their Whistles it fastneth the Teeth also that are loose and maketh them white it helpeth sore Gums and Ulcers in the mouth and healeth up foul hollow Ulcers in other parts and filleth them with flesh and is used in Medicines for the Eys to stay the Flux of Rheum and takes away the heat and redness thereof by cooling and drying up the moysture and some hang it about the neck of such as have the Falling-Sicknesse The colour of red Corall holds forth by its Signature that it stoppeth bleeding which it doth if it be but held in the hands of those that bleed either at the Nose or Mouth it is commended also to be very effectuall for those that spit blood or be troubled with any other Flux of blood either in Man or Woman and being often taken in Wine or other drink doth diminish the Spleen it helpeth also the Gonorrhea in Men and the Whites in Women It likewise helpeth them much that are troubled with the stopping of their water or that make it by drops and also those that have the tormenting pains of the Stone in the Bladder if the Powder when it is burnt be taken in drink It strengtheneth the Heart Stomack and Liver and is therefore very usefull in the Pestilence against venome and all pestilent Feavers and malignant Diseases it chears the heart and is good against melancholy The Powder taken in Wine or distilled water brings rest to such as have Agues and is good for them that are troubled with the Cramp As it is commended in the Falling Sicknesse so likewise it is said to prevent it if a Child so soon as it is born take ten grains thereof in Black-Cherry-water or in the Mothers Milk Some affirm that it causeth an easie delivery of the birth which it do it must be by some specifick Vertue for experience doth manifest it to be of a binding nature The Chymicall Oyl of Corall is also commended for most of the purposes aforesaid CHAP. LVI Of Corall-wort The Names SEverall Names have been given to this Plant by later Writers for it is conceived that none of the Ancients as Dioscorides or Pliny c. took any cognizance of it Some have called it from the form and colour of the Roots Dentaria Dentillaria Coralloides and Alablastrites as Lobel and Dentaria Coralloide radice All which Names do agree both with the Plant and place it here stands in for the Root of it being white smooth and shining as Teeth ought to be it was fitly named Dentaria Dentillaria and Alablastrites and as fitly Coralloides Dentaria Coralloide Radice the divers small round knobs set together whereof the Root is composed resembling the knaggy Eminences of the Corall especially the white with which it agrees in colour too Others both from the Root and Flowers that are like unto Stock-Gillow-Flowers which were antiently comprehended under the name of Viola called it Viola Dentaria as Dadonaus We in English call it Toothed Violet or Corallwort The Kindes Parkinson presents you with seven sorts of Coralwort 1. Bulbe-bearing tootheâ— Violets 2. Cinquefoile Corallwort 3. Another Cinquefoile Corallwort 4. Trefoile Corallwort 5. Setfoile Corallwort 6. Bulbed narrow leaâ—ed Corallwort 7. The least Corallwort The Forme The bulbe bearing Toothed Violet shooteth forth one or two winged Leaves upon long brownish foot-stalks which in their rising up out of the ground are as it were doubled or folded downwards and then open themselves in seaven leaves most usually and sometimes but five each whereof is somewhat long denied about the edges and Poynted of a sad green colour and set on both sides of the middle Rib one against another the stalk that beareth Flowers riseth up in the same manner with the Leaves and is bare or naked of Leaves unto the middle thereof where it shooteth forth a Leaf and so one of two more up higher each consisting but of five Leaves and sometimes but of three having also the uppermost single at each whereof commeth forth a small round bulbe cloven or as it were divided into some parts of cloves of a sad purplish green colour which being ripe and put into the ground will grow to be a Root and bear Leaves â—â—â—e as the bulbes of a red bulbed Lilly about which at the top stand four or five Flowers in long hâ—â—sks upon short foot-foot-stalks opening into four leaves of a Purplish colour very like unto the Flowers of Stock-Gillow-Flowers or Dames Violets after which come small long Horns or Cods poynted at the ends wherein lye such like Seed as are in the Cods of Dames Violets which will as soon as it is ripe break the Pod and fall out the Root is very smooth white and shining It doth not grow downwards but creepeth along under the upper crust of the ground and consisteth of diveÌ„rs small round knobs set together the tast both of the leaf and Root is somewhat bitter hot and sharp like Radish The Places and Time The first and last have been found in our Land as Parkinson saith the first at Mayfield in Sussex in a Wood called Highreed another Wood therein called Foxholes but for the place of the last he doth not expresse it yet I find that it groweth very plentifully about Croydon in Surrey as also a greater sort of Corallwort not mentioned by him The rest in the shadowy woods of Germany Switzerland and Savoy Naples Italy and divers other places They flower about the end of April and the beginning or middle of May and are withered and gone before July for the most part the roots abiding safe under ground The Temperature The Root of Coralwort is drying binding and strâ—ngthening yet it helpeth to provoke Urine and to expell gravell and the stone as some affirm by a speciall Vertue The Signature and Vertues Both the form of the root of Corallwort which is made as it were of many Teeth set together and the smoothnesse and
driveth forth the after-birth provoketh the Courses and Urine when they are stopped and expelleth the Stone in the Reins and Kidneys If a dram or two of the said Powder be given to drink in Wine or Broth for some certain dayes together it will help all those which have a rupture or are bursten and for this purpose it is accounted by divers that there is no help better which although it may bring some pains at the first taking yet by continuance it will knit and heal the part if a Trusse be used a good while after as well as during the Cure It is good also for those that have an imperfection in their Speech so as it be not naturall CHAP. LXV Of Figg-wort The Names THis Plant and the use thereof being found out but of later dayes hath no Greek appellation but what may be taken from the Latines who call it Scrophularia major because it is available ad Scrophulas major to distinguish it from Pile-wort which by most Writers is called Scrophularia minor It is also called Millemorbia Ficaria Ferraria Castrangula as well from the form of the Roots as from the many effects for which the former Ages more then ours did put it to and did find available Although the other sorts want the knobs in the Roots which the true Fig-wort hath yet for the other likeness they have the same name imposed upon them We in English call it great Fig-wort and great Pile-wort and of some great Kernel-wort and Brown-wort from the colour of the stalks The Kindes Of Fig-wort the greater there be eight sorts set down by Mr. Parkinson 1. The ordinary great Fig-wort 2. Great Fig-wort without knobbed Roots 3. Great leafed Fig-wort of Candy 4. Strange great Fig-wort 5. Another strange great Fig-wort 6. Yellow Fig-wort 7. Indian Fig-wort 8. Elder-like Fig-wort The Forme The common great Fig-wort sendeth forth divers great strong hard square brown stalks two or three foot high whereon grow large hard and dark green Leaves two at a joynt which are larger and harder then Nettle Leaves but not stinging At the tops of the stalks stand many purple Flowers set in Husks which are somewhat gaping and open somewhat like those of Water-Betony after which come hard round heads with a small poynt in the middle wherein lie small brownish Seed The Root is great white thick and full of knobs and bunches as it were knots and kernels at it growing aslope under the upper Crust of the ground and abideth many years but keepeth not its Leaves green in the winter the stalks perishing as those of Water Betony and other such like Plants do The Places and Time The first is frequent in divers places of this Land both in moyst and shadowy Woods and in the lower parts of Fields and Meadows particularly in Stow-wood by Oxford the second Lobel saith groweth not but in the warm Counties of Narbone in France Ravenna and Rome in Italy The third and fourth came from Candy the fifth was sent out of Italy among other Seeds the sixth came from Hungary and other parts of Germany the two last from Spain and Italy They all flowre about Iuly yet some a moneth sooner and the Seeds will be ripe within a moneth after the Flowers be past The Temperature I cannot find the temperature of this Herb set down in any Authour yet I guesse it to be the same with the lesser Celandine oâ— Fig-wort because it works the same effect which is hot and dry in the end of the third Degree The Signature and Vertues The likenesse of the Roots unto those Scrophulous tumours which apâ—â—r about the Throat as also the Arm-holes and Fundament do evidently â—â—old forth that it is excellent good for the Kings-Evill or any other knots k 〈…〉 bunches or Wens growing in the flesh wheresoever if the Decoction of the Herb be taken inwardly and the bruised Herb applyed outwardly and so it is â—â— singular good use to be applyed for the Hemorrhoides or Piles when they grow painful and fall down and for such other knobs and kernels which sometimes grow in and about the Fundament It is also very effectuall to dissolve câ—otâ—ed or congealed blood within the Body which happeneth by any wound bruise or fall being used as is said before An Oyntment made hereof in this manner may be used at all times when the fresh Herb is not to be had Wash the Roots clean bruise them and put them into a Pot with fresh Butter well mixed together and let them so stand for fifteen dayes close covered in some moyst or moorish place which afterwards set upon a gentle fire to boyl easily for a little space which then being strained forth let it be kept in a Pot covered to use when occasion requireth With the Roots and Leâ—ves likewise bruised and boyled in Hogs-Lard or Oyl and Wax is made the like Oyntment exceeding good to heal all sorts of Scabs and Lepry also The distilled water of the whole Plant Roots and all is used for the same purposes either to take inwardly or applyed outwardly by bathings and serveth well also for foul Ulcers that are hollow or corroding to stay the malignity and to dry up the superfluous virulent moystute of them the same also taketh away all rednesse spots and freckles in the face as also the scurf or any foul deformity therein that is inveterate and the Leprosie likewise CHAP. LXVI Of Archangell or Dead Nettle The Names LEonhartus Fuschius in his History of Plants doth huddle up together in the 71. Chapter Galeopsis Urtica Labeo Scrophularia major Ficaria Millemorbia Castrangula as if they were one and the same Plant including Archangel also I have already shewed you that Scrophularia major c. is the great Fig-wort I shall here demonstrate that though Fuschius and some others have taken Archangel and Galeopsis to be the same yet they are by more modern Botanicks made to differ for as much as the one is stinking the other not stinking That which stinketh not Pliny calleth Lamium from the Flowers veluti cucullo larvatam Lamiam representante which look like an old Witch hudled up in a Hood It is called also Urtica inâ—rs non mordax mortua quia foliâ—s non mordacibus sed mitissimis sit Urtica for some resemblance it hath with other Nettles iners c. because it stingeth not as other Nettles do Some call it Archangelica ab eximiis viribus for its excellent vertues from whence we in England to which it is more proper then to other Countries call it Archangel as also Dead Nettle and Blind Nettle by which two last Names it is best known to Country people The Kinds Of this Plant properly called Archangel there are eight sorts 1. Red dead Nettle or Red Archangel 2. White Archangel 3. Spanish Archangel 4. Long-leafed red Archangel 5. Archangel with spotted Leaves 6. Archangel with white lines in the Leaves 7. Yellow Archangel 8. Strong
Archangel The Forme The white Archangel which is most pertiment for the present occasion hath divers square stalks about a foot high not standing straight upright but leaning downwards towards the ground by reason of the great weight of its ponderous Leaves as some conceive though I do not which are in shape like those of the stinging Nettles nicked about the edges yet not stinging at all but soft and as it were downy At the joynts with the Leaves stand large and open-gaping white Flowers in husks round about the stalks fashioned like to little gaping Hoods or Helmets in which there is many times a sweet honyish moysture as may be perceived if you suck them as many times you shall see Children and Bees do in the Husks after the Flowers are fallen stand small roundish black Seeds The Root is white with many Fibres thereat not growing downwards but lying under the upper crust of the Earth spreading and increasing like unto Couch-grasse which abideth many years still increasing The Places and Time The first sorts are found under Hedges old Walls common wayes among rubbish in the Borders of Fields in arable and in Gardens that are ill husbanded except the Spanish kind which groweth not but in Gardens here in England as in the Physick Garden at Oxon c. The fifth groweth in Germany as Thalius saith and in Italy as Matthiolus and Columna say very plentifully Those with white spots and lines are rare to meet with The seaventh groweth in some places of England yet not very commonly as in Bagley-Wood by Oxford and under an hedge on the further side of a Meadow by St. Albans near the Causey that leadeth from thencâ—â— to Mr. Cottons House on the left hand a little before you come to the turning of the way up to Windridge where I shewed to my worthâ— Friends Dr. Arris a Doctor of Physick and Mr. Dichfield School-master of St. Albans the last groweth in Candy as Pona saith and in Naples as Columna saith They flowre from the beginning of the Spring all the Summer long The Temperature Archangel is hot and dry in the first Degree or thereabouts It is of thin and subtle parts and therefore it dryeth consumeth and discusseth as the bitterness of the tast doth clearly demonstrate The Vertues and Signature Archangel bruised and with some Salt and Vinegar or with Hogs-Laâ—â—â—ayd upon any hard tumour or swelling and that in the Neck or Throat which is called the Kings Evill doth help to dissolve or discusse them in like manner applyed to the Gout Sciatica or other Joynt-aches or of the Sinews doth very much allay the pains and give ease It is also effectuall in all Inflammations as a repercussive and to heal all green wounds by drying and closing up the lips of them and for old Ulcers also to stay their malignity of fretting and corâ—oding or spredding thereby causing them to heal the more speedily It draweth forth splinters or other such like things gotten into the flesh It is used also for the obstructions and hardnesse of the Spleen both inwardly by drinking the Decoction of the Herb in Wine and afterwards applying the Herb hot or the Decoction to the Region of the Spleen as a Cataplasme or somentation with Sponges The Flowers of the white Archangel are preserved or conserved daily to be used or the distilled water of them stayeth the Whites and those of the Red stayeth the Reds in Women by Signature and is thought good to make the heart merry to drive away melancholy and to quicken the spirits and is commended also against Quartan Agues Likewise it stancheth bleeding at the Nose if the Herb be stamped and applyed to the nape of the Neck and if it be so applyed to the loosnesse and clefts of the skin about the Roots of the Nails of the Fingers it immediately cureth them by Signature as Crollius affirmeth Pliny highly commendeth it for many other things as for bruises and burnings but the Archangel with yellow Flowers is most commended for old filthy and corrupt sores or corrupt Ulcers yea although they grow to be Fistulous or hollow and to dissolve tumours CHAP. LXVII Of Foxglove The Names SOme call it in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and make it to be a kind of Mullein but certainly it is not neither was it known to any of the ancient Greek oâ— Latine Writers Fuschius makes as if he were the first that called it Digitalis being induced thereunto by the hollow form of the Flowers which are like Finger-stalls Casalpinus calleth it Virga Regia major flore purpureo Alcima also and Damasonium Tragus calleth it Campanula sylvestris flore purpureo flore luteo Columna taketh it to be the Ephemerum Dioscoridis and Dâ—lechampius upon Pliny taketh it to be Viola Calathiana Plinii So different is the Opinion of Authours concerning this Plant. It hath no other name in English that I know but Foxgloves unlesse some call it Foxfinger The Kinds The Sorts of Foxgloves are eight in all 1. Common Purple Foxglove 2. Dun coloured Foxgloves 3. Blush coloured Foxgloves 4. Orenge Tawny Foxgloves 5. The greater white Foxgloves 6. The lesser white Foxgloves 7. The greater yellow Foxglove 8. The small pale yellow Foxglove The Forme The common Foxglove hath many long and broad Leaves lying upon the ground dented about the edges a little soft or woolly and of a kind of hoary green colour among which rise up sundry stalks sometimes and but one very often bearing such Leaves thereon from the bottom to the middle from whence to the top it is stored with large and long hollow reddish Purple Flowers a little more long and eminent at the lower edge with some white spots within them one above another with small green Leaves at every one but all of them turning their heads one way and hanging downwards having some threds also in the middle from whence rise round heads pointed sharp at the ends wherein small brown Seed lyeth the Roots are many small husky Fibres and some greater strings among them the Flower hath no scent but the Leaves have a bitter hot tast The Places and Time Two of these Sorts namely the Purple and the Greater white grow naturally in England in such grounds for the most part as are sandy and dry as well on the higher as lower places under hedge sides in divers Counties The red groweth between Stoken-Church and Little Wickham and likewise about St. Albans The white groweth by VVulwich and also in Landesdale Craven and in a Field called Cragclose in the North of England by Colchester in Essex and by Exeter in the West The rest are strangers in England unlesse it be in the Gardens of them that delight in such pretty Ornaments They seldom flowre before July and their Seed is ripe in August The Temperature The Foxgloves in that they are bitter are hot and dry with a certain kind of cleansing quality joyned to them The Vertues The use of this Plant if not
though they were covered with Ashes and is usually with Us called Jacobaea marina maritima Sea-Ragwort in English and Rag-weed by some Country people from the raggednesse of the Leaf The Kindes Of Ragwort there be nine sorts 1. The Greater common Ragwort 2. The lesser common Ragwort 3. The first Hungarian broad leafed Ragwort 4. The other broad-leafed Hungarian Ragwort 5. Smooth leafed Ragwort 6. Round leafed hoary Ragwort 7. The common Sea-Ragwort 8. The lesser Sea-Ragwort 9. Broad leafed Sea-Ragwort The Form The greater common Rag-wort hath many large and long dark green Leaves lying on the ground very much rent and torn on the sides into many peeces from among which riseth up sometimes but one and sometimes two or three square or crested blackish or brownish stalks two or three foot high sometimes branched bearing divers such like leaves upon them at severall distances unto the tops where it brancheth forth into many stalks bearing yellow Flowers consisting of divers Leaves set as a pale or border with a dark yellow thrum in the middle which do abide a great while but in the end growing full ripe are turned into down which with the small blackish gray Seed is carryed away with the wind the Root is made of many Fibres some greater and others lesser whereby it is firmly fastned into the ground and abideth many years The Place and Time The two first Sorts grow wild in pastures and untilled Grounds in many places and both together in one Field often times the three next grow in Hungary and Austria the sixth grew in some parts of France but it is not expressed where the seaventh groweth on our own Coasts not far from the Sea in the Isles of Sheppey and Thanet and along the Kentish shore in many places the eighth groweth on the Mediterranean Sea-shore of Italy and other places as by the Sea side in Zeland the last is mentioned by Bauhinus but he expresseth not the place where it groweth Divers of them are nursed up by divers Herbarists and are to be seen in the Physick-Gardens at Oxford and Westminster They flower in June and July and their Seed is ripe in August The Temperature Ragwort is hot and dry in the second Degree as some think with some bitternesse joyned therewith and therefore cleanseth digesteth and discusseth The Vertues The Decoction of Ragwort is very much commended to wash the Mouth or Throat that have Ulcers and Sores therein and for swellings hardnesse or impostumations for it throughly cleanseth and healeth them as also the Quinsey and the Kings Evill It doth help to stay Catarrhes thin Rheums and Defluxions from the Head into the Eyes Nose or Lungs The Juyce is found by continuall experience to be singular good both to heal green wounds and to cleanse and heal all old and filthy Ulcers as well in the Privities as in other parts of the Body and inward Wounds and Ulcers also and stayeth the malignity of fretting or running Cankers and hollow Fistulaes not suffering them to spread further It is much commended also to help Aches and pains either in the fleshy parts or in the Nerve and Sinews as also the Sciatica or pain of the Hips or Huckle-bone to bathe the places with the decoction of the Herb or to anoint them with an Oyntment made of the Herb bruised and boyled in old Hogs-Suet with some Mastick and Olibanum in Powder added unto it after it is strained forth and not before for otherwise it would be to little or no purpose It is held also to be a certain remedy to help the Staggers in Horses and upon that account some call it Stagger-wort and indeed it is not without a Signature thereof the unevennesse of the edges of the Leaves being like unto those uneven motions which Horses make in that Disease CHAP. LXXVI Of Plantaine The Names THE generall appellation that the Greeks have bestowed upon this excellent Simple is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Arnoglossum which they were enduced to do from the form which it doth somewhat represent to wit of a Lambs Tongue It is called in Latine Plantage â—uâ—to à Plantâ vocabulo as if this were the Plant of Plants as indeed it is It is divided also by the Greeks into 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which the Latines call Septinervia and Quinquenervia the first having seven Ribbes Nerves or Veines the other five The generall English name is Plantaine but that which the Greeks call Eptaneuron we call Way-bred because it commonly breeds by the way sides and that which they call Pentaneuron we call Ribbewort and Ribbewâ—rt Plantaine the Latines calling it Plantago angustifolia from the narrownesse of the Lease as they do the other Latif 〈…〉 because it is broader The Kindes The sorts of Plantaine which are most remarkable are ten 1 Common Wayâ—â—ed or Plantaine 2 The greatest Plantaine 3 Hoary Plantaine 4 Rose Plantain 5 Besome Plantaine or Plantaine with spoky tufts 6 The greater Ribwort or Ribwort Plantaine 7 The lesser Ribwort 8 Rose Ribwort 9 Great Water Plantaine 10 Dwarfe Water Plantaine The Forme The common Waybred beareth many fair broad and almost round Leaves saving that they are a little pointed at the end with seven ribs or sinews in most of them running from the one end of the Leafe to the other of a saddish green colour on the upperside but more inclining to yellow underneath from amongst which do rise up divers small slender stalks of about a foot high naked and bare of Leaves up to the top whereon groweth a blackish green spike or scaly head with blossomes like unto those of Corne after which cometh the seed which being small is enclosed in those little husks The Root is made of many white little strings whereby it taketh fast hold in the ground The Places and Time The first groweth by those wayes and paths that are made through Pastures and Meadowes in most places of this Land The second about Mompelier The third is of our owne Land but not so frequently as the first The fourth groweth in St. John Danvers his Garden at Chelsey The sixth and seventh grow very plentifully in Meadowes Fieldes and sometimes in Gardens without invitation or welcome though they be as usefull as any there The eight is found also in this Land but so rarely that it is taken into the best Gardens The two last grow in silent Rivers and standing Waters They flower in the Summer Months of May June and July The Temperature All the sorts of Plantaine are cold and dry in the second degree The Roots and Seed which is of subtile parts are not altogether so cold as the Leaves The Signatures and Vertues Although Plantaine be beneficiall to all the parts of the Body both inward and outward yet because the Mouth is the first part whereinto it is commonly received I have appropriated thereunto and the rather because it hath the Signature of the Tongue which is not only expressed by
sharp withall and somewhat clammy when they are ripe flat as it were at the lower end next the stalk whose skin is thicker and harder then a Plum and the stone within it is small firm and solid long round and solid like unto an Olive or Cornelian Cherry-stone both for form and hardnesse All the Branches both greater and smâ—ller are armed with Thorns two alwayes at a joynt whereof the one is long sâ—â—ong sharp pointed and straight and the other crooked both of them of a blackiâ—â— red colour like unto the elder Branches The Roots are long and firm in the Ground The Places and Time The first groweth naturally in Africa Egypt Arabia and Syria and those more Easterly Countries from whence as Pliny saith it was brought into Italy and planted there in his time by Sextus Rampinius in the latter end of Caesar Augustus his Raign which now a dayes is very frequent not only in many Gardens and Orchards of Italy but of Provence in France also It is so tender that it cannot endure long in our Countrey by reason of the cold The other likewise was brought into Italy in these later times from Syria where it is only to be seen and but with a few that are lovers of rarities The last groweth wild in the Fields by the Hedges not far from Verona abundantly as Pena saith They all shoot forth in April at which time the Seeds or Stones are to be set and sowen for increase They flowre in May and their fruit is ripe in September the Leaves falling off shortly after The Temperature Jujubes are temperate in heat and moysture The Vertues They open the Body and gently purge Choler and cleanse the Blood according to Actuarius and Simeon Sethi especially when they are fresh yet Matthiolus following the Opinion of Avicen denyeth that they have any purging quality in them at all But all Authours do agree that they cool the heat and sharpnesse of the Blood and therefore hold them to be good in hot Agues and to help them that have a Cough by bringing away tough flegme and are very profitable also for other Diseases of the Chest and Lungs as shortnesse of breath hot Rheums and Distillations proceeding from hot humours They are also to good purpose used to cleanse the Reins and Bladder from Gravel in making the passages slippery they also stay Vomitings procured by sharp humours But they are hard of digestion nourish very little and do not easily passe through the stomach and are therefore used in decoctions with other Ingredients fitting for the foresaid griefs CHAP. LXXXIV Of the Sebesten or Assyrian Plum-Tree The Names THere are also to be had at the Apothecaries Shops a certain kind of Plums called by them Sebestens in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 à muccoso fructus lentore 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 enim muccum significat The Tree whereon this Fruit groweth is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Myxos for the Tree and Myxa and Myxaria for the Fruit. It is thought as Ruellius saith that the Syrians in honour of Augustus called them Sebastae from whence the Arabians called them Sebesten The Kindes The Sorts hereof are two 1. The Sebesten or Assyrian Plum-Tree 2. The wild Sebesten-Tree The Forme The Sebesten-tree groweth somewhat lower then the Plum-tree covered with a whitish Bark the Branches are green whereon grow rounder thicker and harder Leaves then those of the ordinary Plum-Tree the blossoms are white consisting of five Leaves a peece growing many together on a stalk which afterwards turn into small Berries rather then Plums of a blackish green colour when they are ripe every one standing in a little Cup of a sweet tast and glutinous and clammy substance and a very thick skin within which lyeth a three square hard stone with a thick Shell and a small Kernel these are gathered and layd in the Sun whereby they grow wrinckled and so they are kept and brought over unto us in Boxes The Places and Time The first groweth in Syria and is but planted in Egypt as Alpinus saith and from thence were brought into Italy in Pliny his time which were grafted on the Service Tree and do now grow in many places there in their Orchards it is so tender not enduring the cold with us that we can as hardly keep it as cause it to spring the Shell of the Stone being so thick and the Kernel so small The other as Alpinus seemeth to aver growth in Egypt naturally They flowre in May and their Fruit is gathered in September The Temperature Sebestens are temperately cold and moyst and have a thick clammy substance The Vertues They are very effectuall to lenifie or make smooth the hoarsnesse and roughnesse of the Throat which is caused by sharp humours which descend from the Head into the Wine-pipe galling it and fretting it so that unlesse there be means used to stop them and to prevent the Throat from corroding they will run down abundantly and with great force making the Patient to breath with great difficulty Neither are Sebestens good only for the Throat but also do very much help the Cough and wheesings of the Lungs and Distillations upon them by lenifying the passages and causing much flegme to be avoided They also give ease to them that are troubled with pains in their sides and marvellously helpeth those that are troubled with the sharpnesse of their Urine proceeding from Cho 〈…〉 or salt flegme they also drive forth the long worms of the Belly By the judgement both of the Arabians and Greek Physitians they open the body in the fame manner or rather more by reason of the Muscilaginesse in them than Damask Primes yet more when they are green and lesse when they are dry yet the decoction of them or the infusion of them in broth although dryed worketh effectually They serve to cool any intemperate heat of the Stomach or Liver and therefore are good in hot Agues and to purge Choler whereof they come 〈◊〉 saith that he hath found often by his experience that ten drams or twelve at the most of the pulp of Sebestans taken from the Skins and Stones worketh as well and to as good purpose as the pulp of Cassia fistula There is a kind of Birdlime made of these fruits by boyling them a little in water to take away their Skins and Stones and after boyling them more to a consistence the which as M 〈…〉 saith was used in V 〈…〉 to catch Birds but Alpinus saith they use it in Egypt as a Plaister to dissolve hard tumours or swellings CHAP. LXXXV Of Scabious The Names IT hath no Greek Name unless it be as some think that Herb which Aetius calleth 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but few dare venter to say it is the same because there is nothing but the bare Name without any Description extant in him yet the Greek word signifieth Scabies in Latine It took the name of Scabiâ—sa
breasts outwardly being first bruised a little Chrysippus with whom Mr. Culpeper seemeth to take part raileth down right against this Royal Plant yet it seemeth to me more reasonable to defend it as Pliny doth their frivolous objections against it being not worth the answering Perhaps it may be hurtful to a weak brain and cause the headach by reason of its strong savour yet by those whose brains are stronger it is as much esteemed as any other sweet smelling herb to sweeten or perform any thing and held as effectual to comfort the brain and likewise to open and purge the head It is good for those that are short winded provoketh Urine and the Terms in Women and brings a speedy deliverance to them in travail The seeds are used to help the trembling of the heart and to comfort the same as also to expel Melancholy or sadnesse A decoction of the herb made and taken is good against poyson and sting of Scorpions and helpful for those that are given to swoonings and it provokes Venery or Lust used with Oyl of Roses Myrtles and Vinegar is good against the paines of the head and it is profitably applyed to those that are troubled with the Lethargy the Jaundise and Dropsie It is good to be put into the ears of young children With a little Goosegrease to help them of the paines thereof the juyce or seed bruised put into the Nostrils procureth sneesing Mixed with honey and used it taketh a way spots in the face The Juyce put into the Eyes taketh away the dimnesse thereof and dryeth up humours that fall into them so that as it seemes this herb applyed outwardly cures that which it caused being taken inwardly for most Writers say that it dulleth the sight if it be eaten in any plentifull manner I conceive that Hollerus relating the story of the Italian who by often smelling to Basil had a Scorpion bred in his brain mistook the cause and that the Scorpion being there before he used to smell the Basil was then most quiet when he did so for it is observed that scorpions are pleased with its smell and so the Italian found it which made him use it so much but being grown too big for that narrow compasse he caused those vehemenr and long paines whereof he dyed CHAP. CI. Of Beanes The Names THis kind of pulse is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Faba in Latine a wild kind whereof is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek and Faba Sylvestris in Latine and is of some thought to be the true Physicall bean of the Antients whereupon they have named it Faba Veterum and also Faba Graecorum But because they are different both in form and colour the Greek-bean being no bigger then a pease and very black the wild bean being bigger and not so black I hold it to be a mistake The Kinds The severall sorts of Beans are very numerous but I shall set down but five of them in this place 1. The Garden Bean. 2. The Field bean 3. The wild bean 4. The old Greekish bean 5. The Greek bean with dented leaves The old Greekish bean being most Physicall I shall give you its description the two first being well known The Forme The Greekish bean shooteth forth two or three long flat stalks with two edges lying or running on the ground if it have nothing whereon it may ramp or rise which branch out on every side into stalks of leaves four usually set thereon by two and two with a distance between them like unto the Garden Bean and each branch bending in a long clasper the flowers are set singly at the joynts of the branches under the leaves and are of a dead and sullen purple colour with some palenesse at the bottom of them after which succeed long and somewhat flat Pods with two sharp edges and dented about a little hooked or bowing green at the first but black and hard when they are ripe wherein are contained four or five or more round seeds as big as pease and very black so that one may well say they are rather Pease than Beans the root groweth not deep nor farre with some strings or long Fibres thereat dying yearly The Places and Times The first are set in Gardens and fields by the major part of the Gardâ—ners and are by them carried to the Market and sold for mans meat The second are sown generally through the Land by Husbandmen and used by them to give their horses and Hoggs which Mr. Parkinson affirmeth also of the third kind but I doubt he was mistaken for in all the Countries that I have been I never saw any of the Beanes which they sow for Horsemeat to have Claspers the other grow generally in Spain whence the seeds which we sow in our English Gardens are transported They flower in June and July and sometimes sooner in Gardens and are commonly ripe within a moneth or thereabouts after their flowering The Temperature The Garden Beans are with us more used for food then for Physick and being boyled whilest they are green and young they are no contemptibâ—e food for even the better sort of people feed upon them yet they are accounted windy The Field Beans are in many Countries used with a little Wheat and Rye to make Bread and Beer also being mixed with Malt and may be eaten green but then they are more windy then when they are dry and being dry they are harder of digestion though they be boyled parched or fryed Being green it is cold and moyst being dry it is cold and dry They are of a spongy and light substance which hath a scouring or cleansing faculty for it is plainly seen that the Meal of Beans cleanseth away the filth of the Skin The Vertues and Signature When the Paps are so filled and swollen through abundance of Milk that they are scarce able to hold make a Pultis of Bean-flower and Oyl or Vinegar or both and apply unto them and it will not only represse the Milk but also discuss the swelling of the Paps caused by the curdling thereof The distilled water of the Flowers is used of many to cleanse the Face and Skin and to take away both spots and wrinckles and so doth the Meal or Flowre of it and the water disâ—iâ—led from the green husks is held to be very effectuall against the Stone and to provoke Urine Bean Meal mixed with Fenugreek and Honey and applyed to Feâ—ons Biles blew marks by-blowes or bruises and Impostumes or Kernells about the Ears it helpeth them all With Rose Leaves Frankinsence and the white of an Egg it helpeth the Eys that swell or grow out if it be applyed as also the watering of them or stripes upon them if it be used with Wine If a Bean be parted in two the skin being taken away and then laid on the place where a Horse-Leech hath been set that bleedeth too much it stayeth the bleeding Bean-flowre boyled to a Pultis with Wine
they keep the Rooms cool and make a goodly shew without The last was found by Dr. Penny as Clusius saith by Dantswick The four last were found by Clusius in Germany Austria and Syria and some on the Pyrenean hills and in Savoy and are most of them kept in our â—ardens The first is in flowre in June and the Fruit is ripe in August The second and third flowre about the latter end of April and the beginning of May and so do the rest their fruit being ripe in July or August except the second which hath not been seen to bear any The Temperature The Flowers and Leaves of Hony-suckles are of a cleansing consuming and digesting quality The Vertues A Decoction made of the Leaves or the Flowers and Leaves of Honey-suckles with some Figs and Liquorice added thereunto is very effectuall for the expectorating of flegme from the Chest and Lungs whensoever they shall be overcharged therewith A Syrup made of the Flowers is good likewise to be drunk against the Diseases of the Lungs and Spleen that is stopped being drunk with a little Wine Mr. Culpepper saith that it is fitting that a Conserve of the Flowers of it should be kept in every Gentlewomans House for that he knew no better cure for an Asthma then this Besides it takes away the evill of the Spleen provokes Urine procures speedy delivery to Women in Travel helps Cramps Convulsions and Palsies and whatsoever Griefs come of cold or stoppings The Leaves or Flowers in Powder or the distilled water of them are commended to dry up soul and moyst Ulcers and to cleanse the face and skin from Morphew Sun-burn Freckles and other discolourings of the skin Notwithstanding Parkinson following Galen and Culpepper backing him as usually he doth be the matter right or wrong conceiveth that it is an errour to use the decoction of the Leaves of Hony-suckles or the distilled water of the Flowers in Mouth-waters yet it is certainly found by experience that the said water is good against the soareness of the Throat or Uvula and with the same Leaves boyled or the Leaves and Flowers distilled are made divers good Medicines against Cankers and sore mouths as well in Children as elder people and likewise for Ulcerations and Scaldings in the privy parts of Man or Woman if there be added to the decoction hereof some Honey and Allome or Verdigrease if the Sores require greater cleansing outwardly Provided alwayes that there be no Verdigrease put into the water that must be injected into the secret parts As for the provoking of Urine care must be had that the taking of the decoction be not continued too long for though at first it will but provoke Urine only yet being drunk six dayes together it will make the Urine like blood It causeth also barrennesse in Women and maketh men unable for generation The flowers and leaves are of more use then the seed yet they also help the shortnesse and difficulty of breathing and cure the Hicket CHAP. CXII Of Mullein The Names ITt is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 uro for that it served as a Weeke to put into Lamps to burn in former times and of the Latines Candela Regia and Candelaria because the elder age used the stalks dipped in Suet to burn whether at Funeralls or for private Uses and so likewise the English name Higtaper for Hightaper the h being left out is used in the same manner as a Taper or Torch It hath also some other names in Latine as Thapsus Thlapsus and Tapsus Barbatus and Lanaria In English also some call it Torches some Bullocks Lungwort some Haires beard and some Jupiters Staffe The Kindes There are of this kind besides the Moth Mullein nine sorts 1. Common Mullein 2. Dwarf Mullein of Denmark 3. White Mullein with long leaves 4. Sweet white Mullein 5. Ordinary black Mullein 6. Sweet black Mullein 7. Jagged Mullein 8. Sage leafed Mullein 9. Small Sage leafed Mullein of Syria The Forme The Common white Mullein hath many fair large woolly leaves lying next the ground somewhat longer than broad pointed at the ends and as it were dented about the Edges the stalk riseth up to be four or five foot high if it grow in very rank ground covered over with such woolly leaves as the lowest but lesser so that the stalk can be hardly seen for the multitude of leaves thereon up to the flowers which come forth on all sides of the stalks without any branches for the most part and are many set together in a long spike in some of a gold yellow colour in others more pale consisting of five round pointed leaves which afterwards give small round heads wherein small brownish seed is contained the root is long white and wooddy perishing ever after it hath born seed The Places and Time The first groweth by the side waies and Lanes in many places and for its usefulnesse is taken into some Gardens and so is the second but it groweth naturally only in Denmark in the fields between Cronemberg and Hafnia neer Elsemore The third and fourth grow but in some places of our own Country so that one shall hardly find a plant in a great way The fifth in many places of Kent Surrey Essex and elsewhere The sixth is also sometimes to be found wild abroad but yet scarcely to be met with and indeed unlesse one well exercised in the knowledge of plants do light upon it and know it it will be scarce regarded by a great many others The seventh was found by Lobel neer the ruines of an old Church at Bathe in England The eighth groweth at Padoa or thereabouts and the last in Syria as by its title doth appear They all flower in June and July and bring forth their seed the second year after the sowing except the two last of whose time we cannot resolve you The Temperature Mullein is of a dry temperature the leaves have also a digesting and cleansing quality as Galen affirmeth The Vertues A Decoction of the leaves of Mullein is likewise very good for the Lungs and for those also that are troubled with an old Cough And this our aâ—eâ—tion is confirmed in that the Country people especially the Husbandmen in Kent do give it their Cattle against the Cough of the lungs it being an approved medicine for the same whereupon they call it Bullocks â—ungwort and I theâ—eâ—ore mention it because Cattle are also in some sort to be provided for â—n their â—iâ—eases The said leaves being a little bruised and laid oâ— bound to an Hoâ—es foot that is grievously pricked with shooing â—oth wonderfully heal it in a shoâ—t â—pace-Neither is it useful for Cattle but for men also A small quantity of the root taken in Wine is commended against Lasks and fluxes of the Belly the Decoction thereof gargled in the mouth easeth the paines of the Toothachâ— and bâ—ing drunk it is profitable for those that are bursten and for those that have Cramps and Convulsions If
or Eyes The juyce or water is singular good for hot and red inflamed Eyes if some thereof be dropped into them or they bathed theâ—ewith the â—aid juyce or water is also of excellent property for all Pushes Wheals and other eruptions of hot and sharp humours into the face or hands or other parts of the Body to bathe them therewith and helpeth to take away any redness in the face and spots or other deformities of the Skin and to make the Skin clear and smooth The water of Straw-berries distilled in a body of Classe after they have stood in a bed of hot Horse-dung twelve or fourteen dayes cureth the Lepry by Signature if it be drunk and the Spots be bathed therewith And upon this account they are commended by Râ—imundus Lullâ—us being macerated in the spiâ—it of Wine â—nd used The same is very profitable for most of the purposes aforesaid and also for the Morphew CHAP. CXXIII Of Wood-Sorrel The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from the sharp tast that it hath in Latine Trifolâ—um Acetosum and of some Panis Cuculâ— Cuckow-bread either because the Cuckowes deâ—ight to seed thereon or that it beginneth to bâ—ossom when the Cuckow beginneth to â—tter her voyce It is caâ—ed by the Apothecarie in their Shops Alleluja and 〈…〉 jula the one as some think because it was found in Procession whiâ—est the Processioners were singing Alleluja or else because it â—owreth about that time which is used to be between Easter Whâ—tsâ—utide the other came corruptly â—rom Juliola as they of Calabria in Nâ—ples do call it In English Wood-Sorrel Wood-sower Stabwort and Sorrel du bois The Kinds There are two sorts of Wood-Sorrel the one famiâ—iar enough and that is Common Wood-Sorrel the other a stranger as far as I can earn and onâ—y â—herished in the Gardens of those that are curious and that is Wood-Sorrel with yeâ—low Flowers The Form The common Wood-Sorrel groweth low upon the ground without any stalk rising from it hath a number oâ— Leaves comming from the Root made of three Leaves like a Trefoâ—le or three-leafed Grasse every leaf somewhat resembâ—ing an Heart being broad at the ends cut in the middle and sharp towards the stalk of a faint yellowish green colour every one standing on a long red foot-stalk which at their first comming up are close foâ—ded together to the stalk but opening themselves afterwards and are of a fine sowre rellish more pâ—easing them many of the other Sorrels and yielding a juyce which wiâ—l turn red when it is clariâ—ed amongst these leaves rise up divers slender weak foot-stalks not growing above them with every one of them a flower at the top consisting of five small and pointed Leaves Star-fashion of a white colour in most places or in some dasht over with a small shew of blush and in some but on the back side only after the Flowers are past follow small round heads with small yellowish Seeds in them the Roots are nothing but threds or small strings fastened to the end of a small long peece all of them being of a yellowish colour not perishing every year but abiding with some Leaves thereon in the Winter The Places and Time The Common Wood-Sorrel groweth plentifully in many places of this Land in Woods and Wood-sides where it may be moyst and shadowed and in other places that are not too much open to the Sun yet it is known by few except it be by those Herb-women that gather it and sell it to the Apothecaries The other groweth in divers shadowy places about Sevill in Spain and in Gardens at Mompeliar The first flowreth early in April and May the other after Midsummer and so continueth in flowre untill the Autumn colds make it to perish but some Seed is ripe in the mean time The Temperature Wood-Sorrel is as the other Sorrels are cold and dry in the second Degree The Signature and Vertues The Leaves of this Herb representing the Heart are according to their Signature found to be very effectuall for the said part by defending it from the Plague or any other pestilentiall Disease that may ceaze thereon and also by cooling it in Feavers Agues or other sicknesses or faintings that rise from heat a dram of the Conserve thereof being taken every morning or oftner if occasion require It hindereth putrefaction of the blood and Ulcers of the â—â—uth Body quencheth thirst strengtheneth a weak stomach procureth an Appetite stayeth vomiting and is of most singular use in any contagious Disease or Pestilentiall Feaver Of the juyce which will turn red when it is clarified is made a dainty fine Syrup very effectuall also in any of the distempers aforesaid and so is the distilled water of the Herb also Spunges or linnen Cloaths wetted in the juyce and applyed outwardly to any hot tumours and Inflammations doth exceedingly cool and help them the same juyce taken into the mouth and there gargled for some time and after spit forth and fresh taken will wonderfully help a stinking foul Canker or Ulcer therein It is also singular good in wounds Punctures thrusts and stabs into the Body to stay the bleeding and to cleanse and heal the wounds speedily and helpeth well also to stay any hot defluxions or Catarrhs upon the Throat and Lungs CHAP. CXXIV Of Baulm The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Melissophyllum or Meliphyllum id est Apum folium that is Bees-Leaf because the Bees are very much delighted therewith In Latine Melissa and Citragâ— ab odore Citri because it smelleth like a Citron Apiastrum from the pleasure that Bees take in it and Melissophyllum of the effect it being good for Bees We in English call it Bawm from the singular effects therein in imitation of the true naturall Balm The Kinds Besides the Ordinary Baulm which usually groweth in our Gardens there are five other sorts 1. Turky Baulm with a blew Flower 2. Turky Baulm with a white Flower 3. Unpleasant Baulm 4. Great Assyrian Baulm 5. Prickly Assyrian Baulm The Form The Common Garden Baulm hath divers square green stalks with round hard dark green Leaves pointed at the ends like an Heart and a little dented round about the edges set by couples at the joynts of a sweet smell comming nearest to a Citron or a Lemmon the Flowers are small and gaping growing at the tops of the stalks of a pale Carnation colour almost white the Roots fasten themselves strongly in the ground and endure long the leaves and stalks dying down yearly The Places and Time The first groweth no where but in Gardens the two next grow naturally in Moldavia which is under the Turkish Dominion The third at the foot of divers Hills both in Germany and Narbone in France The fourth and fifth in Syria as their Titles do declare The three first flower somewhat earlier in the Summer then the two Assyrian kinds which flower very seldom before the middle of August so that
dry in the second Cassia ligâ—ea is hot and dry in the third degree The first is of subtill parts and very Aromaticall The Vertues The distilled water of Cinamon comforteth the heart and vitall parts corroborateth and strengtheneth the Stomach Brain Nerves and other cold parts of the Body it easeth the pains of the Wind-Cholick provokes the Courses and Urine hasteneth the Birth it preventeth and correcteth putrefaction of humours resisteth poyson stayeth vomiting and helpeth nauseousness of the Stomach It is frequently used in Cardiack passions or passions of the heart fainting of the Spirits and in trembling of the heart It causeth sweetness of breath and brings a good colour in the face it strengtheneth the retentive faculty of all the parts by drying up and consuming the moysture thereof It is used in the Dropsie and Cough proceeding of moysture In brief it avails in all cold Diseases of the Head Stomack and Womb and is most convenient for cold and moyst Bodies and is much used in Lasks or loosness of the Body to ease the pains and frettings of the â—uts and Intralls The Oyl drawn Chymically prevaileth against the pains of the Breast comforteth the Stomack causeth good digestion and being mixed with some Honey taketh away spots from the face being anointed therewith Cassia Ligâ—ea comforteth the Stomack Liver and all the principall parts openeth Obstructions or stoppings diâ—peâ—seth grosse humours repelleth wind provokes Urine and VVomens Courses and doth much faciâ—itate or hasâ—en the Birth Being cast on Coals and the smoke taken at the Nose dryeth up Rheums and Catarrhs that proceed from coâ—d and moyst humours Also a sustumigation thereof helpeth the pain of the VVomb and the stoppings thereof Being mixed with Honey and applyed it dissolveth swellings and hard tumours A decoction hereof with VVhite-wine and Rose-water is commended against the â—â—inking of the Arm-holes if the plaâ—e be bathed therewith and the same is good to wash sore mouths and Gums Both this and Cinâ—mon are more useful in VVinter then in Summer CHAP. CXXXVIII Of Vipers Buglosse The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Echium 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Alcâ—biadion and Alcibion or Alcâ—bâ—acum of the first under thereof who being bitten by a Viper gathered this Herb and chewing it swallowing down the juyce and appâ—ying the rest of the Herb to the bitten place freed himâ—eâ—f from danger Apulcius saith it was called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Theriorrâ—â—on Viperearadâ—x an◠〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from the form of the Seed whiâ—h as Dioscorides saith is like the head of a Viper and thereof took the name Echium yet some others say from the efâ—ects in the Roots to cure the bitings of the Serpent or which is as likely because the stalks are speâ—kled like a Serpents Skin in Latine also Echium of most Authours yet of some Buglossum sylvestre Vâ—perinum The Kinds The Sorts of Vipers Buglosse are twelve 1. The common Vipers Buglosse 2. VVhite flowred Vipers Bugâ—osse 3. Red flowred Vipers Buglosse 4. Vipers Buglosse with darâ— reddish purpâ—e Flowers 5. Red flowred Vipers Bugâ—osse of Candy 6. Spotted Vipers Buglosse of Candy 7. Dwarf yellow Vipers Buglosse 8. The least yellow Bastard Vipers Buglosse 9. The small white Vipers Bugâ—osse 10. Small Spanish Vipers Bugâ—osse with Spurrs 11. Hoary white Vipers Buglosse of Candy 12. Bâ—ack Vipers Buglosse of Candy The Forme The Common Vipers Buglosse hath many long rough Leaves lying on the ground from among which rise up divers hard round stalks very rough as if they were thick set with prickles or hairs having many black spots on them also â—ike unto the Skin of a Viper whereon are set such like long rough hâ—irâ— or prickly sad green leaves somewhat narrow the middle Rib for the most part being white the Flowers stand at the tops of the stalks branched forth into many spiked leaves of Flowers bowing or turning like the Turne-sole all of them opening for the most part on the one side which are long and hollow turning up the brims a little of a Purplish Violet colour in them that are fully blown but more reddish while they are in the Bud and not blown open as also upon their decay and withering but in some places of a paler Purple colour with a long poinâ—el in the middle feathered or pointed at the top after the Flowers are fallen the Seeds growing to be ripe and enclosed in round heads are blackish cornered and pointed somewhat like unto the Head of a Viper the Root is somewhat great and blackish and wooddy when it groweth toward Seed-time and perisheth in the VVinter The Places and Time The first groweth wild almost every where The second about the Castle-walls of Lewes in Sussex The third and fourth in Hungary and Austria The fifth and sixth in Candy The seventh and tenth in Spain The eighth and ninth on the Hills in the Kingdom of Naples as Columna reporteth The eleventh and twelâ—th in Candy They all flowre in Summer and their Seed is ripe quickly after The Temperature These Herbs are cold and dry of Temperature The Vertues and Signature The Roots or Seeds of Vipers Buglosse are very effectuall to comfort the heart and to expel sadness and melancholy proceeding from no externall or apparent cause It tempers the Blood and allayeth hot fits of the Agues The Seed drunk in Wine procureth abundance of Milk in Womens Breasts easeth the pains in the Loins Back and Kidneys It is likewise as you have heard an especiall remedy against the bitings of Vipers and all other Serpents or venemous Creatures as also against Poyson and poysonful Herbs It is added by Dâ—oscorides and others that whosoever shall take of the Herb or Root before they be bitten shall not be hurt by the poyson of any Serpent the Signature both of the stalk and Seed holding out much to this purpose The distilled water of the Herb when it is in Flower or his chiefest strength is excellent to be applyed either inwardly or outwardly for all the griefs aforesaid There is a Syrup made hereof very effectuall for the comforting of the heart and expelling sadness and melancholy which is made in this manner Take of the clarified juyce of common Vipers Buglosse four pound of fine Sugâ—r three pound of the infusion of the Flowers thereof one pound boyl these gently to the consistence of a Syrup and keep them for use Having thus spoken to divers Simples appropriated to the Lungs and Heart which are the Principall Intralls of the middle Region I shall now set down some of those which are available for Stitches and other distempers of the sides before I descend into the Abdomen or lower Region and first CHAP. CXXXIX Of Carduus Benedictus The Names NEither Carduus Benedictus or the Blessed Thistle or the Vertues were known to the Physitians of old time and therefore you must not expect the Greek name It is called in Latine Carduus Benedictus and that worthily for the
Names I Find no Author that setteth down the Greek name of this Simple and I suppoâ—e the reason is because it is of later invention it being not that PaÌ„â— which Dioscorides mentioneth but brought out of China and called so from the River Rha on whose bankes it is said very plentifully to grow The Common Latine name is Rhabarbarum the reason whereof whosoever desires to know may read much thereof in Parkinsons Herball and be unresolved when he hath done The Kinds Of Rubarb there be six sorts 1. The True Rubarb 2. Bastard Rubarb 3. Monkes Rubarb 4. China Rubarb 5. The broader Elecampane leafed Rubarb 6. The narrower Elecampane leafed Rubarb The Form The True Rubarb riseth out of the ground in the Spring-time with a great round brownish head which openeth it selfe into sundry Leaves one after another very much crumpled together at the first and brownish but after they have spread themselves to a very large round compasse they become smooth being supported by a brownish stalk of the thicknesse of ones Thumb when they are at the biggest and about halfe a yard in length the Leafe also from edge to edge being neere the same breadth of a sad or darke greene colour of a fine sowre tast exceeding that of the Garden or Wood-sorrell amongst which there ariseth though not every yeare a strong thick stalk about a foot higher then the Leaves that grow below and like unto them but lesser at every joynt up to the top and among the Flowers which be white spreading forth into many branches and consisting of five or six small white Leaves a peice hardly to be discerned from the white threds in the middle after which come brownish three square seeds like unto those of other Dockes whereof it is a kind The root which will grow to be very great is of a darke brownish or reddish colour on the outside with a pale yellow skin under it covering the inner substance or root which being pared away the root appeareth of so fresh and lively a colour with fresh coloured Veins running through it that no Rubarb whatsoever can excell it which being dryed carefully by the gentle heat of a fire and every piece kept from touching one another it will hold its colour well and is commended by those that have made tryall of it The Places and Time The first as it is reported grew in Thracia whence it was brought to Venice and from thence to us the seed being sent by Dr. Lister to Mr. Parkinson who husbanded it so well that it grew and in two or three yeares brought forth much seed by which he furnished many of his friends Yet I find it growing very rarely and that in no great quantity not remembring that ever I saw it before the writing hereof but only in the Physick Garden at Oxon and in the Garden of one Cudymion Campion of Wansworth in the County of Surrey The second groweth naturally upon the hills not farre from Caria in Germany as also neere Friburg in Switzerland on the Mountaines in Austria groweth also plentifully in many of our Gardens where it is sowen The thâ—rd groweth about Lausannâ— in Savoy as Tragus saith but only in Gardens with us The fourth groweth in China as the name expresseth and is that as the Apothecaries pretend that is made use of in shops because they may have the greater price â—or it although that of England is as effectuall for many purposes The fift is to be found on Mount Baldus neere Verona in Italy and on the hills in Switzerland and the last came out of Italy also These sorts flower in June and the seed is ripe in July The Rootes which are for use must not be taken up till the Stalk and Leaves be quit withered and gone which will be in October for should they be taken before or after the Leafe begins to put forth they would lose much of their colour The Temperature Rubarb is hot and dry in the second degree of a mixt substance partly airy thin and purging partly grosse and earthy whereby it is binding and drying The Monkes Rubarb which is also dry but cooling is not so frequently used as formerly since the Bastard Rubarb hath been so plentifull The Vertues Rubarb is so effectuall for the Liver that it is called the Life Soul Heart and Treacle of the Liver purging from thence Choler Phlegme and watery humours and is therefore usefull in Cholerick and long continued Feavours in the Jaundies Green sicknesse Dropsy Stoppings of the Liver as also against the hardnesse thereof and intemperate coldnesse being taken of it selfe made into Powder and drunk in a draught of White-Wine fasting after it hath been steeped therein all night or put among other purges as shall be thought convenient It is likewise good against the Windinesse Wambling and Weaknesse of the Stomack and all paine thereof the Crampe gnawing and griping of the Belly Kidneys and Bladder the Ach of the Breasts and Mother the Sciatica spitting of blood Sobbing Hicket the bloody Flux and Lasks and all Stingings and venomous bitings one dram thereof being taken in Hydromel or Honyed Water The Powder taken with Cassia dissolved and a little washed Venice Turpentine clenseth the Reines and strengtheneth them afterwards and is very effectuall to stay the running of the Reines or Gonorrhea It is also given for paines and swellings of the Head for those that are troubled with Melancholy and helpeth the Gout The Powder of Rubarb taken with a little Mummia and madder Rootes in some red-Wine dissolveth clotted blood in the body hapning by any fall or bruise and healeth burstings and broken parts as well inward as outward The Oyle likewise wherein it hath beene boyled worketh the like effects being anointed It is used to heale the Ulcers that happen in the Eyes and Eyelids being steeped in White-Wine or any other convenient Liquor and then strained as also to asswage swelling and inflammations and applyed with Honey or boyled in Wine it taketh away all black and blew spots or markes that happen therein Whey or White-Wine are the best Liquors to to steep it in and thereby it worketh more effectually in opening Obstructions and purging the Liver and Stomack many do use a little Indian Spiknard as the best Corrector thereof The Seed of Bastard Rubarbe easeth the gnawing and griping paines of the Stomack and taketh away the loathing thereof The Root of it helpeth the Ruggednesse of the Nailes and being boyled in Wine it helpeth the Kings-evil as also the Swellings of the Kernells of the Eares It helpeth them that are troubled with the stone provoketh Vrine and helpeth the dimnesse of the sight It is also used in opening and purging Diet Drinkes with other things to open the Liver and to cleanse and coole the blood The Root of Monkes Rubarbe purgeth likewise but not so forcibly as either of the former The Seed therof contrarily doth bind the belly and helpeth to stay Laskes and the
Womens courses being applyed to the Matrix The distilled Water of the Herb and Roots being brought into a consistence by being mixed with other proper ingredients worketh the same effects and of it selfe it cleanseth the skin of Freckles Morphewes all other Spots and discolourings therein Blood-wort is as wholesome a Potherb as any that growes in a Garden though it be in these dayes used only by those few which know it to be so CHAP. CLXXXIIII Of Sorrell The Names IT is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying sharpe because it is sharp both in tast and forme and some Latine writers call it Oxalis after the ordinary Greek name for it hath others also as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it may be said Metaphorically to pierce the tongue like a Raisor with its sharpnesse of Galen it is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that is Acidum lapathum or Acidus Rumex sowre Dock because it is so very like a Dock in severall respects other Latine-writers call it Acetosa and Acedula for its sharpnesse Rumex hortensis Sheepes Sorrell is called Lapatiolum and Acetosella by divers The Kinds The Sorts of sorrel besides Wood sorrell which I have entreated already are Sixteene 1. Ordinary Sorrell 2. Great Sorrell of Germany 3. Round leafed Sorrell 4. Tuberous rooted Sorrel 5. The greater bulbous Sorrell 6. Small Mountaine round leafed Sorrell 7. Creeping Sorrell with broad Leaves 8. Candy Sorrell 9. Sorrell of Naples 10. Marygold Leafed Sorrell 11. Indian Sorrell 12. Indian Sorrell with swollen huskes 13. Mountaine Welch Sorrell 14. Sheepes Sorrell 15. The smallest Sorrell 16. Tall narrow leafed Sorrell The Form Sorrell hath tender greene Leaves long and full of juice broad and forked as it were at end towards the foot-stalke as those of Spinach and Mercury are of a sharpe sowre tast the stalkes are slender bearing purplish long heads somwhat like those of the Dock described in the former Chapter whereof it is a kind wherein lye three-square shining brown seed like but lesser then the other the root is smaller then any of the Docks but the strings thereof go further into the earth then of any other herb somtimes to the depth of three Cubits as the Lord Bacon witnesseth in his naturall History it abideth a long time without decaying having greene Leaves all the Winter except in the very extremity thereof which often taketh away all or most of its Leaves The Places and Times The ordinary Sorrell groweth commonly in Gardens and so doth the Sorrell with round Leaves The tuberous kinds grow in some places neere unto the water side and the sheepes Sorrell groweth in upland grounds where Sheepe use to frequent The two last grow in some sandy and gravelly grounds and upon the bankes of some ditches As for the rest their places are most of them set down in their titles All of them flower and seed in May and June except the Indian sort which flowreth not till July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature Sorrell is cooling and drying in the second degree and by its sowernesse cutteth tough humours The Vertues The juice of Sorrell in the Summer-time is a profitable sawce in many meates and pleasant to the tast especially if some Sugar be added thereunto It cooleth an hot Stomack moveth appetite to meat tempereth the heat of the Liver openeth the stoppings and preventeth the walling thereof and is effectuall in all hot diseases to coole any inflammation and heat of blood in Agues Pestilentiall or Cholerick or other sicknesse and fainting rising from heat and to refresh the Spirits being almost spent with the violence of furious or fiery fits of Agues and to quench the thirst in them for which there is nothing better then Sorrell-Posset drink which may be made by putting the juice to milk when it beginneth to seeth The Leaves eaten in the morning fasting in the time of Pestilence do mâ—rvailously preserve from infection but much more the conserve thereof which is good for all the purposes aforesaid The seeds thereof brayed and drunk with Wine and Water are very wholesome against the Chollick and fretting of the Guttes it stoppeth the hot Fluxes of Womens Courses or of humours in the bloody Flux or Flux of the Stomack and helpeth it when it is annoyed with repletion The roots also in Decoction or in Powder is effectuall for the said purposes and further it helpeth the Jaundise and expelleth Gravell and the Stone from the Kidneys and a decoction of the Flowers made with Wine and drunk helpeth the Black Jaundise as also the inward Vlcers of the body of Bowells The Leaves wrapped up in a Wort Leafe and roasted under the Embers and applyed to any hard Impostume or Tumor Botch Boile or Plague sores both ripeneth and breaketh it and discusseth Kernells in the Throat if applyed in time The juice with a little Vinegar is profitable to bathe those places which are troubled with the Itch Tetter Ringworm St. Anthonies fire c The distilled Water of the herb is of much good use for all the purposes aforesaid killing Wormes and resisting Poyson CHAP. CLXXXV Of Beets The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Teutlon and Seutlon ab impulsu quòd facilè excrescat because it cometh up within few dayes after the sowing and afterwards groweth very fast untill it attaine to its bignesse which in â—ome hot Countryes will be three foot in length and of a great breadth It is called Beta in Latine quoniam Figuram Luerae Graecae C dum semine turget referre videtur because the figure of it being in seed is somwhat like the Greeke Letter Beta as Columella hath it It is called also Sicula and Sicla by some because it is supposed that it was first brought out of Sicily viz. The White Beet In this place for want of a fitter I shall speake of Spinage because it deserves not a Chapter by it selfe Ob raritatem in usu medico which made the Greeks call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 being seldom used in Physick yet amongst Sallets and Pot-herbs there be few more common Some Latine Authors call it Spinachia and Spinaccum others Spanachia supposing it grew originally in Spaine and Olus Hispanicum The Kinds There be nine sorts of Beets and but three of Spinage with put together will make up a Dozen 1. The Common white Beet 2. The Common red Beet 3. The Comon greene Beet 4. The Roman red Beet 5. The Italian Beet 6. Prickly Beets of Candy 7. Sea Beets 8. Yellow Beet 9. Flat stalked Beet 10. The greater Spinage with Prickly Seeds 11. Thelesser Spinage with prickly Seeds 12. Spinage with smooth seeds Spinage sometimes beareth no seed but that is only by accident The Form The Common white Beet hath many great Leaves next the Ground of a whitish greene colour the stalke is great strong and ribbed or crested bearing great store of Leaves
away an Ague the juice thereof being taken in Wine or the decoction made in the said Liquor The smeet Smallage is eaten with great delight as a Sallet wherein both the Leaves and Rootes may be used either raw or boyled It may also be fryed and eaten with meat as Parsly oftentimes is or the dryed herb may be powdered and strewed upon Meat but the Venetians with whom it is in great request do either eat it raw after it is whited with Pepper and Oyle or else a little boyled or stewed The Herb and Root do warme the Stomack causing it to digest meat and expell Wind but the seed much more The Root is to be scraped and sliced and so eaten with Oyle and Vinegar CHAP. CLXXXVII Of Cleavers The Names IT hath gotten many Greeâ— names as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Aparine and so it is called in Latine also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because the seed of it is like a Navel and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Philâ—â—â—hropos quasi hominis amâ—ns because it is apt to stick upon those mens cloathes which come where it is and it is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for the same reason also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Pliny calleth it Lappa minor saying it is Lappaginis specus because the seeds be rough like little bunes and therefore he calleth it also Asperugo It is called in English Goos-beiriffe Gooseshare Goosegrasse Cleavers or Clivers because they cleave close to garments c and in so Countryes they call the seed Begger lice The Kinds To this sort there be only three Plants that may be referred 1. Common Clevers 2. Smooth Goos-grass 3. Purple-floured Clevers The Common Cleavers hath divers rough square stalks not so big as the tag of a point but full of joynts lying low upon the ground unlesse it meet with a hedge or bush and then it climeth two or three yards high somtimes at every of the joynts it shooteth out a branch besides the Leaves thereat which are usually six set in a round compasse like a Starre or the Rowell of a Spur like unto the smallest Madder the flowers are very little and white pearking on the tops of the branches the seeds are small round and hollow in the mid'st in manner of a Navell set by couples for the most part the root is tender and full of stringes The whole Plant is rough and by its ruggednesse taketh hold on mens vestures and woollen garments as they passe by and being drawn along the tongue it fetcheth blood The Places and Times The first groweth not only by Hedges and Ditches in most places of this Land but also in the Cornefields where it doth somtimes domineere especially amongst the Pease which are many times almost if not altogether choaked by it and somtimes in Gardens where it is a troublesome inhabitant if the seed be suffered to shed The second was brought out of Spaine and the last is a stranger also They flower in June and July and the seed being ripe in August soweth it selfe against the next yeare for the old root perisheth The Temperature Goose-grasse as Galen saith is moderate hot and dry and somewhat of thin parts The Vertues Clevers with such simples as are mentioned in the beginning of the former Chapter or alone by themselves being chopped into Water-gruell and well boyled be very wholesome to be eaten in the Spring at their first coming up for cleansing the blood and strengthening the Liver and fitting the Body for the season that followes by purging away those excrementitious dregs which the Winter hath bred in them especially from those whose bodyes are fat and grosse The distilled water drunk twice a day helpeth the yellow Jaundise and the Decoction of the herb will do the same and also stay Laskes and bloody Fluxes the juice which is pressed out of the seeds Stalkes and Leaves is good to defend Venome from the hearts of those that are bitten by Venemous Beasts if it be drunk in Wine A handfull of Cleavers boiled in a quart of Ale with a little pared Liquorice and some Currants to the one halfe and then streined may be successefully drunk morning and evening for the Cough and removing Phlegme from the Stomack It is also used to stay bleeding the juice or bruised Leaves being applyed to any green Wound and not only to stop the blood but to close up the Lips of it and the powder of the dryed herb strewed thereupon doth the same and likewise helpeth old Ulcers The herb stamped with Swines-grease and applyed to any part that is troubled with the Kings-evill or any other Kernell or Wen wasteth it away and also helpeth those that have their Paps swollen through curded-Milke Being bruised and laid a soake in Spring-water foure and twenty houres it is a good remedy for Scabs or such like Sores if they be bathed with the said water The juice dropped into the Eares taketh away the pain of them Dioscorides reporteth that the Shepherds of his time did use â—he branches hereof to take haires out of Milk and so may our Milk-maides if they want a Strainer CHAP. CLXXXVIII Of Chick-Weed IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it delighted to grow in Woods and shadowy places uch as the Greeks call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and from thence cometh the Latine name Alsine Some of the Ancients called it Hippia We call it Chickweed and Chicken-weed because Chicken and Birds love to pick the seed thereof The Kinds I shall give you the sorts of Chick-weed as they are marshalled in the Catalogue of Brittish Plants there being at least twenty 1. Great Water Chick-weed 2. Berry bearing Chickweed 3. Chick-weed like long leafed Scurvy-grasse 4. River-Chickweed 5. Germander Chick-weed 6. Fountaine Chickweed 7. Speedwel Chick-weed 8. Ivy Chickweed or small Henbit 9. Great Henbit 10. Mouse Eare Chickweed 11 Great Chick-weed 12. Sea Chick-weed 13. Middle Chick-weed 14. Fine Chickweed 15. The least Chick-weed 16. Creeping Water Chick-weed 17. Srone Chick-weed 18. Right Chick-weed 19. Upright Chick-weed with jagged Leaves 20. Round Leafed Chick-weed or Water Purslane The Forme Chick-weed bringeth forth many Flexible branches full of Joynts which would appeare to be three or four foot-high if it had any bush or such like thing whereon it might take hold as sometimes it hath but commonly wanting somewhat to uphold it through the weaknesse of its stalkes it lyeth on the ground so that it seemeth not so long at every joynt standeth two smooth tender Leaves of a fresh green colour one against the other from which on both sides come forth other branches joynted and set with Leaves in the same manner the flowers which grow on the top of the branches be white much like the flowers of Stitch-wort but lesser in whose places succeed long knops but not great in which the seed is contained The root consisteth of fine little Strings like haires Though there be many Chick-weeds of different
the year which do helpe to stirr up an appetite to meat to help Obstructions of the Spleen and to provoke Urine The Broom Rape is commended by some to be as good as Asparagus taken when they are young and eaten either raw or boyled but they are somewhat bitter The decoction thereof in wine is thought to be as effectuall to avoid the stone in the Kidnies and Bladder and to provoke Urine as the Broom it self The juyce thereof is Singular good to cure as well green wounds as old and filthy sores and malignant Ulcers Being put into oyle Olive and set in the Sun for certain dayes it taketh away all Spots Lentiles Freckles Pimples Wheales and Pushes from the face or any part of the body being anointed therewith All the lesser sorts have the same qualities and may be conducible to the same diseases but some stronger some weaker But the most effectuall of all the Brooms is the Spanish kind which hath not onely all the properties aforesaid very exactly but others also It purgeth both upwards and downwards especially the seed which being taken to the quantity of a dram in Meade or honyed water purgeth by vomit as Hellebore doth yea without trouble or danger An Oxymel or Syrupe made of the Flowers Seed and Vinegar often used breaketh healeth all Impostumes of the Spleen by causing the corrupt matter to void it self and draweth humors from the Joynts CHAP. CXCIV Of the Ash-Tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and of some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latin Fraxinus quia facilè frangiâ—ur because the boughs of it are easily broken The seed or rather the inner kernel therof is called Lingua Avis and Lingua Passerina from the form thereof being like unto a Birds Tongue in English Ash-Keyes and of some Kitkeyes and Peter keyes The Tree is called the Ash because its barke is of the colour of Ashes The wild Ash which I here add because of its name is very probable to be the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or Fraxinus montana of Theophrastus which Pliny calleth Ornus of some Orneoglossum Fraxinus sylvestris Fraxinea arbor Fraxinus aucuparia because Boyes and Fowlers use the Berries as Baites to catch Blackbirds Thrushes c. In the English the Wild Ash but more generally Traxinus bubula the Quicken-Tree The Kinds There be no more sorts then what I have already mentioned viz. 1. The Common great Ash 2. The wild Ash or Quicken-tree The Forme The Ash commonly riseth up with a straight body sometimes to a very great thickness but commonly of a middle sise and is covered with a smooth barke of a grayish colour spreading reasonable wel and bearing long winged Leavs consisting of others which stand by couples one over against another the uttermost onely being excepted which standeth alone all which are long narrow gentle of a pale green colour and dented about the Edges at sundry joynts with the Leaves cometh forth a bunch of flowers and after them a bunch of seeds commonly called keyes tasting somewhat strong and hot in the mouth there be sometimes small round Balls called Apples growing therein but not in every place The timber of it contrary to the branches is strong and tough and therefore is much used in Coaches Carts Ploughes and other instruments of Husbandry but especially to make Pikes for Souldiers The Places and Times The Ash for its usefulnesse both for Timber and Firewood is planted generally throughout the whole Land both in high and Low grounds yet experience tells us that it thriveth best in moist low grounds and by meddow sides The Quicken-Tree groweth in the Woods by High-Gate and in divers other parts And particularly amongst Trees in the walk between Shaford and Gorehambery The Balles or Apples of the Ash come forth in the end of Winter the leaves and flowers of both in the Spring and the seed and fruit is ripe in September The Temperature The Leaves and Bark of the Ash-Tree are dry and moderately hot the seed is hot and dry in the second degree The Vertues There is scarce any part about the Ash but is good for the Dropsy The Leaves and Bark with the tender Crops boiled in Wine and drunk are excellent for it for they purge Water and so doth the Water that is distilled from the Leaves Barke or Seed The young Rootes also boiled in Ale and a draught thereof drunk morning and evening is profitable for the same The said Leaves and Bark boiled in Wine and drunk do likewise open and comfort the Lâ—ver and Spleene and ease the paines and Stitches of the sides and so will they do being boiled in Oyle and applyed to them outwardly and being used in the same manner it is singular good against the biting of the Viper Adder or any other venemous beast to which purpose the seed may also be drunk in Wine according to that Verse of Serenus Fraxineum semen cum Bacchi rore bâ—bendum est The Leaves and Barke are reported to stop the Belly and being boiled with Vinegar and Water do stay Vomiting if they be laid upon the Stomack Three or foure Leaves taken in Wine every morning constantly doth make those leane which are fat and keepeth them from grossnesse which begin to wax fat and so doth the distilled Water of the Keyes a small quantity taken every morning The Decoction of the Leaves in White Wine helpeth to break the Stone and expell it and cureth the Jaundise The seeds having their Huskes taken off prevaile against Stitcâ—â—s and paines in the sides proceeding of Wind and the Stone by provoking Urine They are commended also for the Rickets to increase naturall seed to stir up bodily lust especially being powdered with Nutmegs and drunk The Lye which is made of the ashes of the barke cureth those Heads which are Leprous Scabby or Scal'd being bathed therewith The Leaves of the Wild Ash boiled in Wine are good against the paines in the sides the stoppings of the Liver and asswageth the bellies of those which have the Tympany or Dropsy CHAP. CLXXXXV Of the Sassafras or Ague-Tree The Names THe use of this Ingredient is of late Invention therefore it were in vaine to seek for the Greek name It is called in Latine Sassafras which is also the French and Spanish name but why they called it so is unknown yet the French were the first that discovered the Vertues of it to the Christian world For at their being neere the Florida they got Agues and Swellings in their Legges which as I conceive was the Dropsy and other diseases by lying on the ground and intemperate dyet which they used for which they could get no cure untill they had learned the use of this Tree from the Natives who call it Pavame and Winanke All other Countryes call it Sassafras and amongst them the English who call it also the Ague-Tree from its Vertue in healing the Ague There is hereof but one kind and therefore
sundry green Leaves rising from the root each of them standing on a thick round stiffe green stalk about an hand bredth high from the ground having sundry divisions or cuts in some many some fewer bluntly nicked from the middle of the Leaf to the pointward on both sides looking somewhat like the Leaves of Noble Liverwort at a distance From whence upon sundry stalks not much unlike those of the Leaves do arise one Flower onely or at most but two on a stalk consisting of five white round large leaves somewhat like to a single white Rose yet sometimes dashed with purple and sometimes altogether so with many pale yellow Thrums in the middle standing about a green head which after groweth to be the seed vessel wherein is contained round blackish Seed The roots are a number of brounish black strings which run deep into the ground and are fastened to a thick head about the bignesse of ones finger The Places and Times The first groweth in Germany France and Italy and in Greece and in severall places particularly in the Island of Anticyra where it grew so plentifully heretofore that if any man was sad or Melancholy they would presently say Naviga ad Anticyram intimating that there was Hellebore enough to purge him of that humour which by often use grew into a Proverbe It is very rare amongst us even in our Gardens yet I have seen it in the Garden of the Lord Lambert at Wimbleton in the County of Surrey The second groweth in some woods in Northamptonshire and in some other places of this Land The third grew at Delft with Corvinus and then at Rome The fourth groweth in the borders of stony fields and grounds and on rocky hills by the Mosella and the Rhine The fift neer Vienna in Austria and both the Hungaries The sixt on the Hills of Germany The seventh on Mons fructus neer the Alpes as also on the Pyrenaean Hills The last in the low grounds of the forrest of Essens not farr from Jupiters Hill The first flowreth in December and January if the weather be mild otherwise it will be February first The second in February or March and so doth the third and fourth their seed being ripe in May. The fift in Aprill the other in May and June The Temperature 〈…〉 k Hellebore is hot and dry in the third degree The Vertues and Signature If this Hellebore be so effectuall for Melancholick dull and heavy persons as questionlesse it is by Signature then it must needs be good for the Spleen from whence the Melancholy humor proceeds purging from thence and from the blood not onely Melancholy but burnt Choler and thick and viscous phlegme from the Head Entralls and other remote parts and therefore it is usefull in the paines of the Head swimming and giddinesse thereof in the Apoplexy madnesse Falling-Sicknesse Hypocondriacall affects which are distempers of that part of the belly under the Short ribs where the Spleen lyeth proceeding from Windynesseâ— which sometimes flyeth up to the brain and causeth a kind of Frensy or Madnesse It is very beneficiall in the quartane Ague and erratick Feavers as also against the Dropsy Scab Leprosy Cancer Scald head or Scurfe Elephancy and such â—ouâ— diseases of the skin It is profitable against pain and noise of the Eares and against stubborne and contumacious diseases It is counted as an Antidote against the Leprosy Scab Tetter or Ring-Worm hardnesse and swelling of the Spleen old quartan Agues paines of the Joynts Apostumes and the Kings-Evill It quickeneth the Brain and senses provokes Urine and brings down the courses in Women It hath an excellent faculty to draw away whatsoever is mixed with the blood causing it to corrupt and is profitable in a long continued Jaundise and other evill dispositions of the Liver and Gall. Neither is it without great efficacy to cure those that seeme to be possessed with the Devill for by taking black Hellebore the Melancholy humor which is called the seat of the Devill is drawn away and therefore it is called by some Fuga Daemonum It is usefull also in the paines of the Belly in the Gout Sciatica Cramp or Convulsions paines and aches of the Joynts and Sinews the Consumption of the Lungs and whole body If the Root be taken in powder in infusion or decoction or in broth if it be steeped in Vinegat twenty four hours and then dryed again yet that of our own Country needeth not any preparation the mildnesse of our Câ—imate abating and correcting the Churlishnesse and violence thereof but if any one receive any harm by the taking thereof let him drink Goates milk or if that be not to be had the milk of a Red Cow yet the Extract thereof being altogether without danger may more safely and with as good if not better successe be given for the diseases before mentioned It is outwardly used against the Leprosy Morphew Scab Itch Warts and Pushes of the skin being boyled in Vinegar and bathed therewith The Powder put into Fistula's and hollow Ulcers doth soon heale them and the root it self consumes dead Flesh if it be put into a wound where it is A decoction thereof helpeth the Tooth-ach and the sores of the mouth being gargled and being put into the Eares it helpeth the noise thereof The Root used as a Pessary provokes the termes exceedingly and a piece thereof put into an Issue keepeth it open and draweth out corrupt humors A Pultis made of the Root with Barly meale and and wine is good to be applyed to the bellies of such as have the Dropsy and may be appâ—yed to any sores either in the groine or under the arme arising in the time of pestilence and being put upon the swollen Hemorrhoides it cleanseth them The bastard kind called Bearesfoot killeth the Wormes a little of the powder of the dryed Leaves being given in drink or broth or in Raisins as Worm-Seed commonly is The Root serveth to rowell Cattle and to cure them of the Cough CHAP. CCIII Of the Tamarind or sower Bean-Tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Oxyphoenix in Latine Palmula acida and Tamarindus that is the Indian Date-Tree for Tamar in Arabick signifies a Date to which Indus is added because it comes from the East-Indies but both of them very unfitly for it may plainly be perceived that it is nothing like the Date-Tree It is called also Dactylus Indicus of the word Dactylus which signifieth a finger which the fruit doth fitly resemble being crooked like unto a bended finger In English the Tamarind and of Parkinson the sowre Beane-Tree because the fruit is sowre and like the Cod wherein the Kidney Beane groweth The fruit is call Tamarindi in Latine and Tamarinds in English The Forme The Tamarind-Tree groweth to be as great as a Plum-Tree with many branches thick set with pale greene winged Leaves having alwaies an odde one at the end which do dilate and contract themselves at the coming and
the afflicted part being bathed therewith by a good fire The three last sorts are of very little or no use amongst us CHAP. CCVIII Of the Tamariske-Tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying infinitus from the abundance of little Leaves wherewith it is adorned In Latine also Myrica and Tamarix but of divers Tamarisus which cometh from the Hebrew word Tamarik signifieth Abstersio quia magnam abstergendvim habet of its great force in clensing The Kinds Heretofore there were only two sorts of Tamariske known one great and bearing Galles the other small and bearing none but now there are five sorts found out which belong to this kind 1. The French or finer leafed Tamarisk 2. The Germaine or broader Leafed Tamarisk 3. White Tamarisk 4. Aegyptian Tamarisk which beareth Galles 5. Sea Tamarisk The Forme The French or finer Leafed Tamarisk which I take to be that which groweth most ordinarily in England attaineth not to any great bignesse in this Country though in others it is said to have the bignesse of a great thick and tall-Tree with many spreading slender branches whose Bark is somewhat thick and rugged of a dark reddish colour the younger shootes being reddish at the first green afterwards and blackish when they are dry but the Leaves as long as they be growing are of a whitish green colour crisped as it were somwhat like unto Heath but finer and smaller The flowers grow spike fashion being purplish at the first but white when they are blown open consisting of five Leaves a peece which turn into down with the small seed in them and falleth away as that of the Willow and Poplar doth The Places and Time The first groweth by the Rivers sides and in other moist and gravelly places not only in Narbone and about Mompelier in France but in divers parts of Spain also The second groweth in Germany as well neere unto the River of Rhene as about that of Danubius yet not without some difference The third did grow in the Garden of one Mr. Ward at his house at Boram in Essex The fourth in Arabia Aegypt and the places thereabouts The last groweth upon the Sea Coasts in Flanders They flower about the end of May or in June and the seed is ripe and blown away in the beginning of September The Temperature Tamarisk as Galen saith hath a cleansing and cutting quality and manifestly drying it is also somewhat astringent or binding especially the fruit and Bark The Vertues The Root or Leaves or young branches of Tamarisk being boyled in Wine or Vinegar drunk and applyed outwardly also is a very powerfull remedy against the hardnesse of the Spleene The Leaves boiled in Wine and drunk driveth forth Melancholly helpeth Spitting of Blood and the excessive flowing of the termes the bleeding of the Hemorrhodiall Veines and other Fluxes the Jaundâ—se and all other griefes that come of Obstructions The Root sodden with Raisins and drunk helpeth the Lepry because it cleanseth and healeth the Milt whereof the Lepry commeth The Bark and Leaves boyled in Wine and the Mouth and Teeth gargled therewith helpeth the Tooth-ach and being dropped into the Eares it helpeth the paines thereof and is good for the rednesse and watering of the Eyes The said Decoction is also good to wash those that are subject to Nits and Lice and being mixed with a little honey it is effectuall to stay Gangrens and fretting Ulcers A Bath made by boyling a good quantity of the Leaves in store of Water being sat in by those Women whose Matrix is in danger of falling down through loosenesse fasteneth it and the ashes of the Wood applyed to the place stoppeth the excessive flowing thereof The Wood is said to be so powerfull to consume the Spleene that those Hogs which have beene served in Troughes made thereof have beene found without Spleens and therefore it is more then probable that if those which are Splenetick should constantly drink out of Cannes Piggins or Cups made thereof they would find it effectuall for their Disease The Ashes of the Wood made into a Lye with Water is of good use for many of the purposes aforesaid as also to help those blisters which are raised by burning or scalding of fire or water The Aegyptians use the Wood hereof to cure the French disease Leprosy Scabs pushes Ulcers and the like It is available also to help the Dropsy arising from the Hardnesse and Obstructions of the Spleene as also for Melancholy and the black Jaundise that ariseth thereof especially the Bark with the Barks of Ash and Ivy infused in Beere or Ale and drunk Some in cases of necessity use Heath or Ling insteed of Tamarisk CHAP. CCIX. Of Germander The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Chamaedrys which in English is as much as a dwarfe Oak the Leaves of it being somwhat like to those of the great Oake In Latine Trissago and Trixago and of some Querculaminor yet Chamaedrys is more frequent then either of them in shops or elsewhere in English Germander or English Treacle Tree Germander is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek and Teucrium in Latine à Teucro inventore from one Teucer which first found out the vertues of it in English Tree Germander and upright Germander The Kindes Of both these kinds we may reckon Eighteen sorts 1. The common Germander 2. Great Germander 3. Germander of Naples 4. Jagged Germander or with fine cut Leaves 5. Thorny Germander of Candy 6. Mountaine Germander 7. Rock Germander 8. The greater Bastard Germander 9. The smaller Bastard Germander 10. The least Bastard Germander 11. Common Wild Germander 12. Narrow Leased wild Germander 13. Jagged base Germander of Austria 14. Wild Spanish Germander with fine â—ut Leaves 15. The more common Tree Germander 16. Tree Germander of Candy 17. Tree Germander of Spaine 18. Unsavory-Tree Germander of the Alpes The Form Common Germander shooteth forth very many branches lying on the ground which are tough hard and wooddy spreading themselves here and there whereupon are placed small Leaves sniâ—â— about the edges like the teeth of a Saw and therefore of some called Serratula though improperly resembling the shape of an Oaken Leafe as I said before The flowers are of a purple colour very small standing close to the Leaves towards the top of the branches The seed is little and black the root slender and full of strings which by spreading themselves a great way round about cause it to be very plentifull in a short space where it is once set The Places and Time To set down the places of all the sorts abovenamed would be to little purpose seeing that none of them grow naturally in England save the Eleaventh sort which groweth almost every where I shall therefore referre you to the Gardens of those that delight in Varieties of this Nature where it is probable you may find many of them Some of them flower
in things belonging to Love I need say no more of the other sorts than what is expressed in the Temperature CHAP. CCXXXVI Of Kidney-Beanes The Names IT is called by Dioscorides 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which is the same with Smilax hâ—rtensis in Latine quod Smilacu modo conscendit because it climbes like a Bind-weed by Theophrastus and others 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or as some write 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Dolichus or Dolâ—câ—s which many Latine Authors also follow of some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because of their length It is thought also to be the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Dioscorides or as Galen writeth it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 whence it is that it is called Phasiolus and Phaseolus in Latine It is called the Kidney-Beane in English because it representeth a Kidney and the French-Beane being as it is very probable brought over to us out of France The Kinds Of the many sorts hereof I shall trouble you but with foure 1. The white Kidney Beane 2. The scarlet Kidney-Beane 3. The upright Kidney-Beane 4. The Indian Kidney-Beane The Form The French or Kidney-Beane riseth up at the first but with one Stâ—lke which afterwards divideth it selfe into divers branches which are so weake that they will lye upon the ground unlesse they are sustained with sticks or poles whereon with their winding and Claspers they take hold upon these branches grow forth at severall places long fooâ—stalkes with every of them three broad round and pointed greene Leaves at the end of them towards the tops whereof come forth divers flowers made like unto Pease Blossomes of the same colour for the most part that the fruit will be of that is to say either white or yellow or red or blackish or of a deepe purple but white is the most usuall after which come long and slender flat pods some crooked and some streight with a string as it were running down the back thereof wherein are contained flattish round seed made to the fashion of a Kidney the root is long and spreadeth with many Fibres annexed to it perishing either before or with the first frosts The Places and Time Authors make no mention whether these Kidney-Beames be naturall to any place or not yet I conceive by their name that they come out of France to us though happily that may not be the natural place the last came from the East Indies whereof there be severall sorts as likewise in the West Indies all which it were endlesse to recite They may be set about the later end of April or the beginning of May and their fruit will be ready to eat about the later end of July or the beginning of August The Temperature The Kidney-Beane is hot and moist in the first degree easy of digestion and free from that Windinesse that is in other Pulse The Vertues and Signature Though there be no other Vertues tending to our present purpoâ—e expressed by any Author then that this Beane eaten with its shells as the common manner is do provoke Urine yet having so perfect a Signature of the Kianeys as it hath it is conâ—eived that it hath more in it then so And therefore it is desired of those that are Practitioners in Physick and others that have ocâ—asion to take it into consideration and to try whether it hath not some excellent faculty to cure the diseases of the Kidneys It also moveth the Belly enlargeth the breast which is streightned with shortnesse of breath engendreth Spâ—rme and inciteth to Venery especially if Sugar Ginger and Galâ—nga be added thereunto yet the usuall way oâ— eating them is to take them while mey are young and boile them shells and all only the ends cut off and the strings taken from them and then putting a little Butter and Vinegar to them they make a dainty dish farre exceeding the ordinary Beanes in savour or if this way be not so pleasing to some mens Palates they may be stewed or fryed Matthiolus saith that if the greene pods be chewed in ones mouth and applyed to any place that is bitten by an Horse it is a present Remedy he saith further that the Italian Dames make a Water of the pods and seeds of these Beanes with a fresh Gourd crummes of Bread and Goates Millâ—pistilled together which they used to make themselves look faire and 〈…〉 able It is said that the fish called Scarus which is somwhat like a Barbell is so much delighted with the Leaves of Kidney Beanes that though they are very difficult to be taken with a hooke and line yet if their Weeles or Bow-nets be baited therewith they will eagerly rush into them and it is probable that other fish would do so likewise if tryall were made thereof Since the writing of the prâ—mises I find in Mr. Culpeppers English Physitian enlarged that these Beanes being dryed and beat to Powder are as great strengthners of the Kidneys as any simple whatsoever neither is there saith he a better remedy then it to â—revent the Stone or to clense the Kidneys of Gravell or Stoppage a drachme at a time taken in White-Wine The Scarlet coloured Beanes in regard of the glorious beauty of their colour being set neere a Quick-hedge will bravely adorne the same by oliming up thereon to the admiration of the beholder CHAP. CCXXXVII Of the Oake The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which is a generall word for all Trees that beaâ—e Acornes as the Latine Word Querâ—us also is yet they are both particularly attributed to this tree 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which is that the Greeks commonly call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 id est latifolius from the breadth of the Leaves to distinguish it from some other sorts of this kind Dodonaeus calleth it Hemeris Quercus quasi sativa and urbana and we may English it the Tamer Oake the other sorts being accounted more wild then this The Acorne is in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and the Cup 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Glans and the Calix Cup glandis and Cupula Glandis of the Apothecaries The Kinds Though there be no great difference of Oakes in England yet in other Countrye they vaâ—y so much as to make five distinct sorts which I shall only name unto you 1. The broad Leafed Oake 2. The strong or Gall Oake 3. The sweet Oake 4. The male bitter Oake 5. The female bitter Oake The Forme The Oake is a mighty Tree covered with a thick rough Bark full of chops and clifts sending forth armes and boughes of a huge bignesse which disperse themselves farre abroad the Leaves are bluntly indented about the edges or rather cut in or gashed smooth and of a shining greene colour whereon is often found a most sweet dew somwhat câ—ammy and upon divers of them are found growing certaine excâ—eâ—â—ences called Oake Apples It beateth small yellowish mossy flowers standing close together upon â—ong stalks which wholly fall away in
them forth but healeth up the place again gathering new flesh where it was consumed The juyce of the Leaves dropped into the eares helpeth the Imposthumes therein The distilled water of the whole Herb when the Leaves are young is profitably drunk for all the diseases aforesaid as also to cause Mirth by driving melancholy from the heart to help Quartane and Quotidian Agues and those that have their Necks so drawn awry that they cannot stir them unlesse they move their whole Bodies The young and tender shoots are eaten of divers where they grow plentifully being almost as available to provoke Lust as the Rootes CHAP. CCLXIX Of Potatoes The Names IT is not probable that I should shew you by what names the ancient Greek and Latine Writers did call these kinds of Plants they being as I suppose knowne to neither of them being brought of later years from the Indies so that I hope it will be sufficient to tell you how the Moderne Writers have called them Clusius calleth the Spanish Potatoes which are those in most request now amongst us Battata Camotes Amotes and Ignanes or as some write it Inhames Those of Virginia are called Battata and Battatas Virginiana sive Virginianorum Papas Papus and Pappus Those of Canada which we in English call Jerusalem Artichocks because the Root being boyled is in taste like the bottom of an Artichock are called by Pelleterius Heliotropium Indicum tuberosum by Columna Flos Solis Farnesianus sive Aster Peruvianus tuberosus The Names and Kinds being thus mixed together I shall proceed to the description of those that are called Spanish Potatoes because they are most for our purpose as being most respected The Vertues The Spanish Potatoes rise up with many long branches which by reason of their weight and weaknesse lie trailing on the ground whereon are set at severall distances broad and in a manner three square Leaves somewhat like unto those of the Winter Cherry of a dark green colour the two sides thereof being broad and round and the end pointed reasonable close together The Roots for we have not read either of the seed or flower are firm sweet and very many like in shape and form unto Asphodell Roots but much greater and longer of a pale brown colour on the outside but white within set together at one head The Places and Time The Potatoes which we call Spanish because they were first brought up to us out of Spaine grew originally in the Indies where they or at least some of this kind serve for bread and have been planted in many of our Gardens wherein they decay rather then increase but the soyle of Ireland doth so well agree with them that they grow there so plentifully that there be whole fieldes overrun with them as I have been informed by divers Souldiers which came from thence The Names of the second and third do sufficiently speak their places yet it will not be amisse to tell you that the last came from Canada and not from Jerusalem notwithstanding some ignorant people that have them growing in their Gardens with us call them Artichocks of Jerusalem The first beareth its green Leaves all the Summer which perish with the Stalke at the first approach of great frosts The second thrusteth forth its Leaves in the beginning of May the flowers bud forth in August and the fruit is ripe in September The last flower about the latter end of Summer and the Roots are fit to be taken up from the time that the Stalke is withered until it spring again which is the greatest part of the Winter The Temperature The Leaves of Potatoes are hot and dry as may plainly appear by the taste but the Roots are of a temperate quality The Vertues Which way soever Potatoes be dressed they comfort nourish and strengthen the Body procuring bodily lust and that with greedinesse Some onely roast them under the Embers to take away their windynesse and then eat them after they are peeled Others having roasted them and peeled them as before put them into Sack with a little Sugar or without and so they are delicate to be eaten They are used also to be baked with Marrow Sugar Spice and other things in Pyes which are a costly and dainty dish for the Table And some there be that preserve and candy them as they do divers other things and so ordered they are very delicate and fit to accompany other sweet Meats when a Banquet is presented The Virginia Potatoes may be dressed after any of the aforesaid wayes but they are not altogether so delicate as the former The Potatoes of Canada called Jerusalem Artichocks as I said were of great account when they were first received amongst us but by reason of their great increasing they are become common and consequently despicable especially by those which think nothing good unlesse it be deer but if any one please to put them into boyling Water they will quickly become tender so that being peeled sliced and stewed with bâ—tter and a little Wine they will be as pleasant as the bottome of an Artichocke CHAP. CCLXX. Of Skirret The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Sisarum and Siser in Latine being the saâ—e Root which Tiberius the Emperour so much loved that he commanded it to be conveyed unto him from Gelduba a Castle in Germaâ—â— standing about the River Rhene as Pliny reporteth divers of the later Herbâ—rists do call it Servillum or Chervillum and Servilla and we in English Skiriet and Skiâ—wort they being much mistaken who think Siser to be a Parsnep The Kindes There be but two sorts of Skirrets and one of them must be fetched as far as Aegypt 1 The Common Skirret 2 Skirrets of Aegypt or white Carrots The Forme The Common Skirret hath sundry stalks of winged leaves which are composed of many others oppositely set upon a middle rib and every one snipt about the edges somewhat like unto those of the Parsnep but that they are smaller and further set a sunder being also smoother and greener from amongst which riseth up the stalk not much above half the height of the Parsnep bearing at the tops umbels of white flowers which afterwards turn into small dark seed somewhat bigger and darker then Parsley-seed The Root is composed of divers small long lesser Roots meeting together in one head like the Aâ—phodill banched out and uneven or rugged of a whitish colour even on the outside but more white within having in the middle of the Root a long small hard pith or string which no other Root that either hath been or now is edible hath besides it The Places and Time The naturall places of the first is in Narbone which is almost forgotten through its long continuance in Gardens where the second groweth not being found wild in Aegypt by grand Cairo as Raâ—wolsius saith Some sow them of seed amongst their Onions in February or March which is as good alway for them as for Parsneps for
was written originally in Spanish by Antonio Colminerâ— of Ledesma Doctor in Physick and faithfully rendred in English by my much honoured Friend Captain James Wadsworth CHAP. CCLXXVIII Of Satyrions The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Satâ—rium from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it was found out by the Satyres who first used it to stirre up lust for which they were so notable it is also called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Orchis which is as generall a name as Satyrium is one kind whereof is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 another 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Cynosorchis and Tragorchis in Latin Testiculus Canis and Testiculus Capri in English Satyrion Orchis Doggestones Goatestones Foolestones Cullions Standle wort Standerd grasse Kingfingers Gandergosses c. The Kindes All the sorts of Satyrions would fill a sheet of Paper and therefore I shall specifie onely the cheifest of them that grow in England 1 The Male Satyrion Royall 2 The Female Satyrion 3 Marish Satyrion 4 Spotted marish Satyrion 5 Creeping Satyrion 6 Bee Satyrion 7 Butterfly Satyrion 8 The elegant purplish fly Satyrion 9 Yellow fly Satyrion 10 Scarlet fly Satyrion 11 Fly Satyrion 12 Bird Satyrion 12 Dogs stones with a gaping Flower 13 Little purple flowred Doggestones 14 The Male Foolstones or Crowtoes 15 The Female Foolestones or Crowtoes 16 The Lizard Flower or Goats stones 17 The Spider Orchis 18 Spurre flowred Orchis or Red handed Orchis 19 Humble bee Orchis 20 Lady-Traces The Forme The Male Satyrion Royall hath divers large broad and long smooth green Leaves lying on the ground amongst which riseth up a round stalke with some such Leaves on it but lesser towards the top where grows a large head of pale purple flowers spotted with a deeper purple colour each Flower having a heel of the same colour behind it the Roots are flat and broad two joyned together at a head like unto hands one whereof is firme and the other loose and spungy as it is also in the Orchises that have Rootes like Stones altering every year by course for when the one riseth and waxeth full the other waxeth lank the full one sinketh if it be put into water the laâ—k one swimmeth The Places and Time As the Satyrions are many so the places are different for some grow in Fields and Meadowes some in Moorish grounds and Marshes and others upon Hills and Mountaines some of the most considerable I shall particularize unto 〈◊〉 The Bee Satyrion groweth in a large Close neer Elâ—feild on the side of the Hill betweene it and Oxford The Butterfly Satyrion hath been found in Stow-Wood being not far from the former places The eighth in Brodworth-Wood in Iorkâ—shire The tenth in Swanscombe-Wood The eleventh on a Hill Southwest of Bath The sixteenth nigh the high way between Crayford and Dartford in Kent The seventeenth hard by Walcot a Mile from Barnet They flower in the Months of April May and June some earlier and some later then another The Temperature That part of any of these Roots that is full and heavy is hot and moist and that which is spungy and light is hot and dry the full one seemeth to have much superfluous windinesse which the lank one is without The Vertues and Signature The full and plump Roots of the Satyrion or Orchis whereof the Electuary Diasatyrion is made are of mighty efficacy to provoke to Venery which they that have Bulbous Roots do by Signature but the lank or shrivelled mortifies lust so that here is a Remedy both to help Nature if it be deficient and to restrain it if be too luxuriant Being boyled in Milk especially the Goats stones and those other whose smell doth imitate that of the seed and eaten with white Pepper do the same and also nourish and strengthen those that are in a Consumption or have the Hectick Feaver The same Roots boyled in Wine and drunk stop the Flux and being green they consume all tumours cleanse rotten sores and Fistulaes being applyed and the powder thereof being cast into fretting and devouring Ulcers and Sores stayeth the same from further fretting and festring Being boyled in Wine with a little Honey it cureth the rotten Ulcers and Sores of the Mouth and being bruised only and applyed it is good against inflammations and swellings The Satyrion Royall which is that before described hath this particular vertue above the rest that being bruised and drunk in wine it provoketh Vomit and purgeth the Stomack and Belly by meanes whereof it cureth an old Feaver if as much as ones thumb be used before the fit come The flowers of Dogges-stones are also effectuall to cause provoke increase and stiâ— up Nature in case she forget her selfe through the coldnesse of any ones constitution CHAP. CCLXXIX Of Dragons The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Dracontia and Dracontium from the resemblance that the stalke hath with the skin of a snake which is very great and it is observed by Pliny that it springeth out of the ground when snakes first begin to stir and as soon as they retire it retireth also It is called in Latine Serpentaria Bisaria and Colubrina but most commonly Dracunculus in English Dragons The Kindes There be three sorts of Dragons 1 Great Dragons 2 Small Dragons 3 Water Dragons The Forme The great Dragon riseth up with a bare or naked round whitish stalk about half a yard high or higher which is many times thick but alwayes smooth and spoâ—ted very much with spots of divers colours like those of the Adder or Snake bearing at the top thereof a few green Leaves very much divided on all sides standing upon long Foot-stalks in the middle whereof if the Root have been long planted commeth forth a great long husk or hose green and of a dark purplish colour on the inside with a slender long reddish pestell or clapper in the middle like unto that of the flower of Cuckowpint but greater The skin or filme whereof when the seed waxeth big being stretched and broken in sunder there appeareth the Fruit like to a bunsh or cluster of Grapes The Berries whereof at the first be green afterwards red and full of juyce in which is contained seed which is somewhat hard The Root is great round flat and whitish on the outside but whiter within with divers fibres hanging thereat much like unto the Cuckowpint both in form and tast The Places and Time The two first are planted in Gardens where they have been so long that their naturall place is not recorded The third groweth for the most part in Fenny places where the Water alwayes standeth and sometimes in Watery and marish places They flower in July and the berries are ripe in September The Temperature The Roots of Dragons are biting and bitter and not without some astriction and therefore there is no question but that it is hot and dry at least in the second Degree The Signature and Vertues
use in â—â—king Cordage We in English call it Hâ—mpâ— and sometimes Welsh Paâ—slâ—â— and Nâ—â—k weed but these are but Nick Nâ—mes The Kindes Though custome hath caused the barâ—en Hempâ— to be called the Female and that which beares Sâ—â—d to be the Male yet I see no reason for it they being from the same Seed and therefore must be of the same kind howsoever there be two sorts hereof 1 Common Hemp. 2 Virginian Hempe The Forme The common Hemp which is that which is manured both Male and Female riseth up out of the ground after the same manner neither can they be distinguished till they come to be well growne and then the Female as they call it which is ripe and must be pulled first is easily knowne from the other by the fewnesse of its Leaves which are smaller and of a lighter green colour then the other but the Male hath the stronger stalks with a more bushy head and greater Leaves of a dark green colour The Female beareth flowers and no feed followeth the Male beareth seed without any shew of flowers and endureth longer before it be ripe They both rise up to be five or six foot high if the ground wherein they grow be rank but not otherwise with many Leaves set thereon at distances which are subdivided into divers others yet standing upon one foot stalk somewhat like unto the Leaves of Bastard Hellebore or Bears foot but more dented about the edges The seed is contained in divers husked bunches coming from the bottom of the Leaves which being prepared and make fit to be threshed it cometh forth being almost round with a somewhat hard shell under which lieth a kernell of a white substance The Roots are made of many strong strings which take fast hold in the ground so that they are very troublesome to pull up unlesse the ground be mellow or presently afâ—er rain yet they die and perish every year The Places and Time The first is sowne in most Counties of this Land but not so frequently in some as in others yet wheresoever it â—is it delights in a well dunged and watery soyle which must be either plowed or digged deep or else it thriveth not It is sowne in March or April and riseth out of the ground within few dayes after it is committed thereunto making its way through Cloth Shooe Soales or any such thing that lies over it The Female Hemp is ripe in July and therefore called Summer Hemp the Male in September when the Winter approacheth and therefore it is called Winter Hemp. The Temperature There be some that speak Hemp to be cold and dry but the major part of Writers are of opinion that it is hot and dry The Vertues The Seed of Hemp used frequently is good for those which are troubled with a thorn in the flesh for besides that it consumeth windinesse it doth so much disperse it that it dryeth up the naturall Seed of procreation therewith Being boyled in Milk and taken it helpeth such as have a dry and hot Cough as Tragus saith An Emulsion made of the Seed is given with good successe to those that have the Jaundise especially in the beginning of the disease if there be no Ague accompanying it for it openeth the Obstruction of the Gall and causeth digestion of Choller therein A decoction of the said Seed stayeth Laskes and Fluxes that are continuall easeth the pains of the Chollick and allayeth the troublesome humours in the Bowels An Hempseed Posset with some Nutmeg procureth Sleep being taken bedward The Leaves fryed with some of the blood of those who bleed exceedingly and eaten stayeth the issuing out thereof whether it be at the Mouth Nose or any other place The juyce of the Leaves are held to be very effectuall to kill worms either in Man or Beast and being dropped into the eares it killeth the worms that are in them and draweth forth Eare-wigs or other living Creatures gotten into them The decoction of the Root allayeth Inflammations in the Head or any other parts and so doth the Herb it self or the distilled Water thereof The said decoction easeth the pains of the Gout the hard tumors or knots in the joynts the pains and shrinking of the Sinewes and the pains of the Hip The fresh juyce mixed with a little Oyl and Butter is good for any place that hath been burnt with fire being thereto applyed Notwithstanding these Vertues it is said to be hard of digestion hurtfull to the Head and Stomack and breedeth ill blood and juyce and in the body if it be taken without discretion Concerning the gathering shocking threshing watering peeling or stripping braking dressing and spinning of Hemp I dare not be too particular lest I should be contradicted by every Country Huswife every of which doth very well know that the Summer Hemp affordeth most Teere as they call it and maketh the siner Cloth for Shirts Smocks Aprons Table Cloths and such like necessary uses and that the Winter Hemp hath in it more Hards which being Spun serveth for Sheets Dresser-Cloths and the like The Cordage that is made of the rough Hemp is not altogether inconsiderable for by it Ships are guided Bels are rung Rogues are kept in awe Beds are corded c. Nay the Rags of the old Cloth that is made of Hemp serve to make Paper which is as usefull a commodity as any whatsoever And if there be any one that is not sufficiently satisfied with these uses of Hemp and Hempseed let them read the Works of John Taylor the Water Poet who hath written very much in the praise of Hempseed CHAP. CCLXXXII Of the Water Lillie The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and in Latine also Nymphaea because it loveth to grow no where but in the Water which the Greeks sometimes call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 though that word hath other significations also or rather from the Story though fabulous for many of purplants have received names upon such accounts of the Nymph which pind away for the love of Hercules and was changed hereinto It is called by the Apothecaries Nenuphar by Apuleius Mater Herculara Algapalustris Papaver palustre Clavus Veneris and Digitus by Maâ—cellus Clava Hâ—rculis Some have called it in English the Water Rose as well as the Water Lilly The Kindes Of the Water Lillies both white and yellow there be seven sorts 1 The great common white water Lilly 2 The lesser white water Lilly 3 Small white water Lilly commonly called Froybit 4 The great white water Lilly of Egypt 5 The great yellow water Lilly 6 The smaller yellow water Lilly 7 Small yellow water Lilly with lesser flowers The Forme The great common white water Lilly hath very large round Leaves in the shape of a buckler thick fat full of juyce and of a dark green colour which standing upon long round and smooth foot-stalks full of a sponglous substance alwayes flote upon the water seldome or never growing above it from
this disease chanceth not only to Men but also to Women in whom it is hard to cure Two drams of the seed beaten small being taken in the morning or after Supper either in Meade Wine or fair Water purgeth cholerick humors and therefore it helpeth the Sciatica or Hip-Goat The herb healeth burnings by fire and stayeth the bleeding of wounds the green being bruised and applyed for the first or the green or powder of the dry for the second It hath formerly been accounted and certainly is a soveraign herb to heal any wound or sore either outwardly or inwardly and therefore may be used now as heretofore it hath been in Drinks Lotions Balms Oyles and Oyntments for any sort of green wound or old Ulcers and Sores in all which the people of former Ages found it very effectuall though those of this do ignorantly contemn all those that savour either of antiquity or cheapnesse To this Head and the purposes therein contained do belong Nightshade Purslane Henbane Housleek Lettice which are cold and Rue and Calamint which are so hot that they destroy the seed but having handled them already upon other occasion I passe now to the third Head wherein we are to speake of some Plants that procure Womens Courses CHAP. CCLXXXVI Of Mugwort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Artemisia in Latine because as Pliny hath said so many others have beleeved that Artemisia the Queen of Caria was both the Mother and Godmother hereunto by finding out the Vertues and giving it her name yet others are of opinion that it took its name from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Artemis that is Diana because it is chiefly applyed to Womens diseases over which Diana that is the Moon hath much influence It was commonly called Parthenis quasi Virginalis Maidenwort and Parthenium as Apuleius saith though now Feaverfew be better known by that name Some superstitious Monks and Nuns have called Zona divi Johannis St. Johns Girdle beleiving that St. John Baptist wore a Girdle hereof when he was in the Wildernesse It is also called Maâ—er Herbarum The Kinds Though Pliny and others reckon but two sorts of Mugwort there are five or six come to the knowledge of these later times 1 Common Mâ—gwort 2 Small Mugwort 3 Fine Mountain Mugwort 4 Fruitfull Mugwort 5 Virginiâ—n Mugwort 6 Sea Mugwort The Formes The common Mugwort hath divers Leaves lying on the ground very much divided and deeply dented about the edges somewhat like unto the common Wormwood but much larger of a darkish green colour on the upper side but very white and hoary underneath from amongst which come up divers stalks which are sometimes of a purplish colour seldome exceeding two foot in height except it be in extraordinary rank ground whereon grow such Leaves as those below but lesser branching forth very much towards the top whereon are set so many small pale yellowish flowers like buttons that they beâ—d again which falling away there commeâ—h small seed inclosed in small round Heads The Root is long and hard with many fibres growing thereat whereby it taketh fast hold in the ground yet the stalks and leaves die in the Winter the whole Plant is of a reasonable good scent The Places and Time The first groweth plentifully as in other Lands so in our owne by the ways and ditch sides and in divers other places The second is found in such like places but not so frequently The three next are entertained as Stranâ—ers in the Gardens of the curious The last groweth about Rye and W 〈…〉 sey 〈◊〉 aâ—d in other parts of the Sea coast They do all flower and seed in July and August or thereabouts The Temperature Mugwort is hot and dry in the second degree being somewhat of thin parts The Vertues and Signature There is no Herb so generally received or more usually proved for the curing of Womens diseases as Mugwort whether it be inwardly or outwardly used The decoction of the Leaves which are most in use being made with Water or Wine and drunk provoketh the courses bringeth away the Birth and After birth and helpeth the inflammations and stoppings of the Mother as also the stopping of Urine and is a good help against barrennesse in Women that with the red stalks having the signature of Womens Flowers and therefore it is endued with very much vertue as to provoke so to stop and correct them in case they be superfluous which a spoonfull of the Syrup performeth very excellently which is also good to retain the Matrix in its place and to help other passions thereof as Coldnesse Wind Paine c. it strengthens the Nerve opens the Pores and corrects the blood The said decoction helpeth the stoppings of the Liver and Spleen proceeding from a cold cause and is profitable for the Jaundise being boyled with Centory and taken Two or three drams of the Leaves in Powder being drunk in Wine helpeth the Sciatica and the juyce being taken helpeth the biting of a Mad Dog A decoction thereof being â—ate over doth also performe those effects which that doth which is taken inwardly though not so vigorously and so doth the juyce thereof made up with Myrrhe or the Root put up as a Pessary Being made up with Hogs grease into an Oyntment it taketh away Wens and hard knots and kernels that grow about the Neck and Throat as also to ease the pains about the Neck especially if some field Daysies be put therein The juyce of the Herb or the Herb it selâ—e being taken is a good remedy for them that have taken too great a quantity of Opium A decoction thereof made with Camomile Agrimony and Sage and the place bathed therewith warm taketh away the paines of the Sinews and Cramp and the same cannot but be a great refreshment to those whose feet are suâ—bated through sore travell if they be bathed therein yet I have scarce so much faith as to believe that the Herb only carried about one should take away all sense of wearinesse as Pliny reporteth and therefore I have put it amongst other Traditions in my former Book to which I might have added that concerning the Coales that are found at the Roots hereof upon St. Joons Eve and divers others CHAP. CCLXXXVII Of Penny-royall The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Glecon and Blecon from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 balatus either because the heat thereof causeth Sheep and Goates to bleat when they are eating of it or rather as Pena saith from expelling thick phlegme from the Lunges It is called in Latine Pulegium and Pulejum also quod incensum pulices nâ—cat because it killeth Fleas being burned to which the Epithet Regâ—le is added to distinguish it from Pulegium montanum by which name wild Time is sometimes called It hath many English Names as Run by the ground and Lurke in Ditch because of its manner of growing Pudding-grasse because it is used in
Mentha Cattaria and Cataria or Cattaria simply Mentha felina and Herba Catti because Cats doe seed upon the Branches or Leaves thereof with a great deale of greedinesse and delight much to rub themselves against it and to wallow and tumble thereon yet it is said as I have formerly expressed in my Book called The Art of Simpling If you set it the Cats will eate it If you sow it the Cats can't know it The Apothecaries call it Nepeta and indeed that name is best known every where The Kindes Sâ—xe sorts of Vep are reckoned up amongst Authors 1. Common Garden Nep. 2 Middle sized Nep 3. Small Nep. 4. Small Mountain Nep or Catmint 5. Strong Nep with broad Leaves 6. Strong Nep with narrow Leaves The Forme Common Garden Nep riseth up with Stalks about a Cubit high being four square with a kinde of boarinesse upon them full of Branches bearing at every joynt two broad Leaves somewhat like unto Bawme but longer pointed softer whiter and more hoary nicked about the Edges and of a strong sweet scent The flowers grow in large tufts upon the tops of the Branches and underneath them also on the Stalkes many together of a whitish Purple colour The Roots are composed of many long Strings or Fibres by which it is strongly fastned in the ground the Leaves abiding all the Winter unlesse the Weather be too violent The Places and Time The first is sometimes found to grow upon the rough banks of Ditches by Hedge sides and common waies but more commonly in the Gardens of those that know the use of it as the second also doth though lesse frequently The rest are Spaniards by descent yet they refuse not the entertainment of our Gardens where they are used with much civility by those which love varieties of strange Simples They all flourish by and after the Spring flower in July and August and their Seed is ripe in September The Temperature Nep or Catmint is hot and dry in the third degree and of thin parts The Vertues The decoction of Catmint is not onely effectuall for the winde and paines of the Mother or the rising thereof but warmeth and comforteth the coldnesse of the wombe and dryeth up the over-much moisture thereof which is many times the cause of barrennesse so that the frequent use hereof brings it to a right temper and consequently makes divers Women to be joyfull Mothers of Children which otherwise might live under reproach upon that account It is also very available to provoke Womens Courses by which it is no small helpe to the breeding of Children for though at that time they come not down as they doe at others yet the Menstruous blood being stirred up is conveied with more activity and vigor for the nourishment of the Childe It is likewise exceeding usefull for the paines of the Head that come from any cold cause as Catarrhes and thin Rheumes and for the giddinesse thereof also and I think it may be observed without any errour that those things that are good for the Wombe are good for the Head likewise there being a kinde of Sympathy or fellow suffering between them It is likewise of especiall use for the windinesse of the Stomack and Belly and is effectuall for Cramps or cold Aches to dissolve the Cold and Winde that afflicteth the part and to bring warmth and comfort thereunto afterwards and is used for Cold Coughs and Shortnesse of breath It is a present remedy for them that are bursten inwardly by means of some Fall received from an high place or for any other bruises if the Juice be given with Wine or Meade A Bath made thereof onely or with some other convenient Herbes and sate in up to the Navel or the hot fumes thereof being sate over bringeth down Womens Courses helpeth Barrennesse and warmeth those parts The green herb bruised and applyed to the Fundament there abiding for two or three hours easeth the sharpe paines of the Piles and the Juice also is effectuall for the same purpose being made up into an Oyntment and applyed A Decoction thereof in Spring-Water is commended to wash the Head and to take away the Scabs thereof and may be as effectuall for other parts of the Body also The distilled Water may be used for divers of the aforesaid purposes CHAP. CCCVIII Of the Burdock and Butter-bur The Names IT will not be amisse to speak of both these together in one Chapter because they be both good for the Mother The Burdock is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Arcium as also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Prosopium or Prosopis because the broad Leaves hereof were used in old time to cover the faces of those which would not be known when they acted any thing in the Theatres and for this reason it was also called Personata in Latine The Shops call it Bardana and Lappa major in English The great Burdock and Clot Bur. The Butter buâ—re is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Petasites from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 extendo because of the extraordinary breadth of the Leaves and so the Latines call it in English it is named Butter-burre perhaps because some Countrey Huswives wrap their Butter in the broad Leaves hereof when they carry it abroad in hot Weather The Kindes Both Burdock and Butterburre make but five sorts 1. The Common Burdock 2. The Rose Burre 3. The Woolly headed Burre 4. The small Burre called Xanthium 5. The Butterburre which hath most need to be described The Forme Butter-burre doth send forth its Flowers before the Leaves in the same manner that Coltsfoot doth of which some reckon it to be a kind which stand upon a thick Stalke about a foot high beset with a few small Leaves or rather piecâ—s spiked fashion and of a blush or deep red colour quickly falling away after which the Leaves will begin to spring which being full grown are larger and broader then those of the Clot burre being somewhat thin and almost round whose thick red Foot-stalkes being about a foot long stand very neer unto the middle of the Leaves which are divided on that side which is neerest to the Stalke of a pale green colour above and hoary underneath The root spreadeth much under ground yet in some places it is no bigger then ones finger though in some it be much greater blackish on the outside and white within of a bitter and unpleasant taste The Places and Time The first groweth by Ditches and High way sides in divers places of this Land nay I thinke I might have said in every place the second on the Banks side between the Horse Ferry and the Neat house neer London the fourth in the High-way leading from Draiton to Iver two miles from Colebrook as also between Tidenham and Chepstow in the Foot way The third is supposed to grow neer Lipswick in Germany The last delighteth in moist places neer unto River sides and upon the brinks and bankes of Lakes and Ponds almost every
and helpeth Suffusions or Spots in the Eyes being mixed with Honey and dropped in It cures the stinging of venemous Beasts being applyed and the swelling of the Spleen being laid on as a Plaister A Perfume thereof and of Goats horn is not onely good for the Mother but prevents or much mitigates the Fit of the Falling Sicknesse if the party's head be held over it when the Fit is a coming It helpeth the Toothach being put into an hollow Tooth It is exceeding powerfull to expell Wind not onely in Men but also in Horses when they are over-subject thereunto These are the vertues of Assa faetida which is the true and onely Laser or Laserpitium of the Ancients as Garcias saith that it is so accepted generally by the Arabians in India who say they err mightily that make them differing It is given from half a Scruple to a Dram in powder if it be very dry but if not it must be dissolved in Honey or Wine and so taken yet Women with Child and such as have very hot and dry bodies must avoid it The Assa dulcis is now a dayes quite lost and forgotten being not brought into these parts neither are the Salks Leaves or Roots of Laserwort to be seen with us The Vertues of the two last are not yet discovered that I can finde CHAP. CCCXI. Of Cow-parsnep The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sphondyllum and Spondylium being derived as some think from Spondyle which signifieth a Flie of a very stinking smell like unto this Herb Tragus Cordus and others call it Branca Vrsina and Fuchsius Acanthus vulgaris sive Germanica and therefore the Apothecaries in high and low Germany did commonly use it in Clysters instead of Beares-breech It is called in English Cow-parsnep and Meadow-parsnep but some Countrey people call it Hog-weed because Hogs feed upon it with a great deal of greedinesse The Kindes There be five sorts of Cow-parsneps some of which have been made known to the world but of later dayes 1. Ordinary Cow-parsnep 2. The great Cow-parsnep of Germany 3. Jagged Cow-parsnep of our own Land 4. Small Mountain Cow-parsnep 5. Smooth Mountain Cow-parsnep The Form The Ordinary Cow-parsnep groweth with divers large spread rough winged Leaves lying either upon the ground or else touching it within a very little yet sometimes they stand more upright upon their long thick and roundish hairy foot-Foot-stalks parted commonly into five divisions the two couples standing each against other and the odde one at the end each division or leaf being almost round yet cut intâ— the edges somwhat deeply in divers of them but not so deep in others of a whitish green colour and of somewhat a strong scent from amongst the Leaves riseth up a round crested hairy Stalk two or three foot high with some few Joynts and Leaves thereat like the former but lesser branched also at the â—op whereon divers Umbels of somewhat large and white flowers do commonly stand yet sometimes they are a little reddish after which cometh the Seed which is flat whitish thin and winged two of them being alwayes joyned together The Root is long and white somewhat like to that of Henbanâ— growing down into the ground with two or three long strings thereat having also somewhat a strong and unpleasant smell The Places and Time The first groweth not onely in the corners of Meadows and in the borders of Fields but in the Meadows and Fields themselves many times amongst the Corn whence the Husband-men pull them forth and bring them home to their Hogs being very acceptable to them as also to other Cattle neither do they count their Hay or Straw much the worse if it be amongst them it being good Fodder for Cowes and therefore called Cow-parsnep as well as for other Cattle the second is an Inhabitant of Germany the third being of our own Land was found by Dr. Bowl in Shropshire the fourth on the Alpâ—s of Austria the fifth and last on the Alpes of Basil They do all flower in July and seed in August The Temperature Cow-parsnep is of a manifest warme Temperature The Seed as Galen saith is of a sharpe and cutting quality The Vertues The Seed of Cow-parsnep being either boyled in Wine and drunk or powdred and so taken therein is commended as a good Remedy for Womens passions of the Mother and so it cleanseth the Belly from tough phlegmatick matter abiding therein and easeth them that are Liver-grown The smoak also of the Seed bâ—ing burned and received underneath is effectuall for the Mother and being burned under the Nose it helpeth such as are fallen into a deep sleep or have thâ— Lâ—tâ—argy The Root being boyled in Oyle and the Head rubbed therewith heâ—pâ—th not onely those that have the Lethargy or Drowsy Evil but those that have the Frensy or Waking Evil if I may so call it notwithstanding they are so contrary and those that of a long time have been troubled with the Head-ach if it be likewise used with Rue and so it is good for Ringwormes and Tetters the â—unning Scab and the Shingles The Seed is effectuall for those that are troubled with a Cough or shortnesse of Breath the Falling Sicknesse or the Jaundise The Root is of the like quality and available for the said purpose and besides it is of great use to take away the hard callous skin that groweth on a Fistula if it be scraped upon it The Leaves are profitable to consume and dissolve cold swellings if they be bruised and applyed thereto The Juyce of the Flowers being dropped into the Eares that are full of Matter and run cleanseth and healeth them â—he poor people of Polonia and Lit 〈…〉 ia do boyl the Seeds and Leaves hereof in water and by putting a little Yest or Barm thereunto make of it a Liquor which they drink as familiarly as we do Beer CHAP. CCCXII Of Birth-wort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is good both to facilitate the Birth and to purge all impurity that may be in the Womb after delivery The Latines following the Greek do likewise call it Aristolochia besides which it hath none other Latine name but those which are corrupt yet coming thence also as Pistolochia and Aristologia In English it is called Birth-wort from the effects before mentioned The Kindes There are eight sorts hereof reckoned up by Bauhinus in his Pinax though perhaps not translated Verbatim 1. The more ordinary round rooted Birth-wort 2. Another round rooted Birth-wort 3. The true long rooted Birth-wort 4. Spanish long Birth-wort 5. The running rooted Birth-wort 6. Spanish climing Birth-wort 7. The bushy rooted Birth-wort 8. Ever-green bushy rooted Birth-wort of Candy The Forme The more ordinary round rooted Birth-wort sendeth forth divers long trailing square Stalks a foot long or thereabouts with few or no branches but with many round yellowish green Leaves
English Solomons-seale from the ordinary Latine name and sometime White-wort or White 〈…〉 The Kindes The sorts of Solomons-seale that I finde mentioned by Authors are twelve 1. Common Solomons-seal 2. Great Solomons-seal 3. The great-flowred Solomons-seal 4. The greatest leased Solomons seal 5. Small Solomons-seale 6. Broad-leafed branched Solomons-seal 7. Solomons-seal of Virginia 8. Clâ—â—ter-like Solomons-seal of America 9. Solomons-seal of Brasil 10. The greater and lesser thorough-leafed yellow Solomons-Seal of America 11. Narrow-leafed Solomons-seal 12. Branched small Solomons-seal The Forme The Common Solomons-seale groweth with a round Stalk about half a yard high bowing or bending down the top set with single Leaves one above another which are somewhat large and like unto the Leaves of the May Lilly of a blewish green colour with some ribs therein and a little yellowish underneath it hath at the foot of every Leaf almost from the bottom small long white and yellow pendulous flowers like unto those of the May Lilly also but ending in five longer points for the most part two together at the end of a small foot-stalk standing all on one side the Stalk under the Leaves which being past there appâ—ar round berries green at first but afterwards of a blackish green tending to blewness wherein lyeth small white hard stony Seed The Root is white and thick full of knobs or joynts which in some places resemble the mark of a Seal the taste thereof is at first sweet but afterwards bitter and somewhat sharp The Places and Time The first groweth in divers places of this Land as in a Wood two miles from Canterbury by Fish-poole Hill as also between Newington and Sittingburne in Kent in Surrey about Horsely in Wiltshire about Alderbury in Hamâ—shire about Odiam c. The rest are not found in England unlesse it be in the Gardens of the most ingenuous Herbalists The Flowers of the common sort are ripe in May and they seed in September The Temperature The roots of Solomons-seale which are most in use are hot and dry containing in them a certain kind of astriction or binding and biting withall The Signature and Vertues The Roots of Solomons-seale doe by the Impresse that is set upon them signifie the wonderful vertue they have in sealing or closing up the Rim of the Belly when it is so bursten that the great Guts fall down into the Cods if the Decoction in Wine or the Powder in Broth or Drink be taken inwardly and outwardly applyed to the place It is also very available in all other Hurts Wounds or outward Sores to heal and close up the lips of those that are green and to dry up and restrain the Flux of Humours into those that are old It is singular good to stay Vomitings and also Bleedings wheresoever as also all Fluxes in Man or Woman whether they be the Running of the Reins in Men or the Whites or Reds in Women The people of divers Countreys of this Land have found by late experience that it is incomparably good to knit and joyn broken bones in any part of the Body even in those which by any weaknesse use to be often out of place or will not stay in long when they are set the Roots being bruised and applyed to the place but the Decoction of the Root in Wine or the bruised Root put in Wine or other Drink and after a nights infusion strained forth hard and drunk soddereth and gleweth together broken Bones very speedily and strangely though the Bones be but slenderly and unhandsomely placed and wrapped up and this it doth not onely in Man but in beasts also the Roots being stamped and outwardly applyed in manner of a Pultis The same also is available for inward or outward Bruises Falls or Blowes both to dispel the congealed Blood and to take away both the paines and the black and blew markes that abide after the hurt Some Authors doe affirme that the powder of the Herb or of the Seed purgeth Phlegme and viscous humours very notably both upward and downward and it is said also that the Root chewed in the Mouth draweth down much Phlegm out of the Head and put up into the Nostrils causeth sneezing but the distilled Water of the whole Herb doth without question cleanse the skin from Morphew Freckles Spots or other marks whatsoever leaving the place fresh fair and lovely after it hath been a few times washed therewith CHAP. CCCXXIV Of the Balsame Apple The Names IT is not conceived that the Greek Writers had any knowledge of this Plant because the name thereof is not so much as found amongst their Writings and therefore it is that the Latine Appellations do so much differ there being no Antiquity to build upon Cordus calleth it Cucumis puniceus Gesner Balsamina pomisera Lobel Balsamina Cucumerina punâ—cea but the most usuall name is Balsamine from the healing property that is in it the Oyle wherein the Apples of it have been steeped being in many things as effectual as the liquor of the Plant Balsa 〈…〉 It is called in English the Balsame Apple or Apple of Jerusalem The Kindes The Kindes hereof are not very numerous being distinguished into two onely 1. The Male Balsame Apple 2. The Female Balsame Apple The Forme The Male Balsame Apple springeth up with divers slender reddish Stalks and Branches shooting forth many clasping Tendrels like a Vine whereby it taketh hold of any Pole or other thing that standeth neer it or else no such thing being neer it lyeth upon the ground not being able to support it self having the Leaves thereon cut in on the edges into sundry divisions like unto those of the White Briony but much smaller tenderer and more divided The Flowers are yellowish white like unto those of the Cucumber coming out at the joynts with the Leaves as they do after which cometh the Fruit which is somewhat long and round poynted at both ends and bunched on the out side with rowes the Skin it self being smooth and very red the Pulp being reddish also within which is the Seed which is rough hard flat and reddish when it is first taken out but after it is dryed it is of a grayish black colour somewhat like unto the Citrul seeds for form and bignesse The Roots are small and stringy yet creeping a good way within the earth The Places and Times These Plants do at present acknowledge no natural place of abode but they are entertained as Sojourners in many of the Gardens of Italy where they come to perfection and their seed is sent over unto us which with labour and industry is made to grow with us but our cold nights being over-early the whole Herb withereth before the Fruit be ripe it being also late before it flowreth The Temperature The Male Balsame-Apple is of a notable drying quality having withall a certain moderate coldnesse The Vertues The powder of the Leaves taken in the distilled Water of Horse-taile or Plantane which are both good for this distemper is
gently till about half the Water be consumed strain it and give about four ounces thereof in bed for divers mornings together if need be The said Decoction is also profitable in Agues whether quotidian or intermittent or pestilential Feavers and also Hecticks and Consumptions to rectifie the evil disposition of the Liver the inveterate paines in the Head and Stomack which it also strengtheneth to dry up Rheumes to help the Jaundise and Ruptures in Children or others by drying up the humours which is the cause thereof The Palsie also may be cured by it and so may the diseases of the Joynts as the Gout Sciatica and the Nodes also or hard bunches that sometimes grow upon the Joynts It is useful also in the ulcers of the Yard Scabs Leprosie Scirrous and watry Tumors and is good in all cold and melancholy griefes but especially in the Dropsie and Greene Sicknesse Some say it provokes Lust which is very likely but it is not to be used in hot and dry bodyes for to such it is very hurtfull It is also sliced into thin pieces and boyled in broth being bound up together with a Chicken in a Linnen cloath The dose to be put therein is from two drammes to four drammes CHAP. CCCXXIX Of Prickly Bindweed and Sarsa parilla The Names Iâ—t is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and in Latine Smilax aspera to distinguish it from the other sorts of Smilax of which there be four besides this viz. two Trees and two Herbs the first of the two Trees is Smilax Arcadum a soft Oake the other is Smilax simply and by that is meant the Yâ—w-tree the first of the two Herbs is Smilax lavis smooth Bindweed the other is Smilax hortensis the French or Kidney Beane Gaza in his translation of Theophrastus calleth it Hedera Cilicia because the Leaves thereof are somewhat like Ivy and the Hetruscians call it Hedera spinâ—sa because of its prickles the Spaniards call it Zarsa parilla or Sarsa parilla which signifieth a small or little Vine whereunto it is like and therefore when they saw the like in Peru they called it by the same name so that it is generally so termed at this day in most Languages yet some write it Sarca parillia The Kindes Three sorts of prickly Bindweed desire a room in this place 1. Prickly Bindweed with red Berries 2. Prickly Bindweed with black Berries 3. Sarsa parilla or the prickly Bindweed of Peru which is the most useful and therefore I shall describe it as well as I can The Forme Sarsa parilla or the prickly Bindweed of Peru springeth up with many branches winding themselves about the poles that are stuck in the ground about them for to climb on having some tender pricks like thorns growing on them especially at the joynts it hath divers very green Leaves like unto Bindweed but longer and cornered like Ivy leaves the Flowers are great and white every one as big as a middle sized dish which opening in the morning doth sade at night from whence the Spaniards are said to call it Buenas Noches that is good night Clusius saith that he had a small branch with three heads of seed thereon the largest that ever he saw of that kinde for it had five leaves a piece every one almost an inch broad and long which seemed to be the cup of the Flower and Fruit every head which was three-square and skinny had within three round Seeds as big as great Pease of a smoaky or brownish colour The Root like that of Smilax aspera is down right and full of joynts or knots from which shoot other roots or strings which in the Indies grow to be great and long The Places and Time The two first grow in Italy Spain and other the warmer Countreys throughout Europe and Asia but the third is found onely in the Western Indies as Peru Virginia and divers other places the goodness or badness whereof is caused from the fertility or barrennesse of the ground whereon it grows so that the Honduras being very fertile bringeth forth the best They flower and fructifie timely enough in the warmer Climats but in ours they soon perish if there be not a care to keep them from the Frost and cold in Winter but where a convenient place is provided to set them in they will continue as I have seen the true Sarsa parilla if I mistake not in the Garden house of the Lord Laâ—bert at Wimbleton growing in a poâ— The Temperature Sarsa parilla is hot and dry in the first or second degree of thin parts and provoketh sweat The Vertues The Decoction of Sarsa parilla or the prickly Bindweed of Peru is of great force to cure those that are troubled with the French Pox being made and administred after the way which I shall here prescribe Take of Sarsa parilla four ounces cut it into small parts and afterwards infuse it into ten pints of hot water for the space of foure and twenty hours then boyl it being close covered till it be neere half consumed then being strained give a good draught thereof morning and evening It I mean the said Decoction is of very great use in Rheumes Gouts cold diseases of the Head and Stomacâ— and expelleth Wind both from the Stomach and Mother It helpeth all manner of Aches in the Sinews and Joynts all running Sorâ—s in the Legs all cold Swellings Tâ—â—ters or Ringwormes and all manner of Spots and foulnesse of the Skin It is also good in the Catarrhe or distillation from the head being sharp and salt in Cancers not ulcerate and in Tumors which are hard to be dissolved and it hath been found by experience to be very good for the Kings Evil a dram of the powder of Sarsa with the powder of Ruseus or Butchers-Broom being taken in White wine or Ale for forty dayes together The same powder having a just quantity of Tamariâ—k added thereto is a good remedy in the tumour of the Spleen The roots of the other rough Bindweeds are also used by divers of the learned and judicious instead of Sarsa parilla with good successe for Sarsa doth not purge the body of humours manifestly as other purgers do being generally held to spend them by its dryness and diâ—phorâ—tical quality rather than by heat or by going to stool It is given as an Antidâ—te against all sorts of poysonous or venemous things A dozen or sixteen of the Berries beaten to powder and given in Wine procureth Vrine when it is stopped The distilled water of the Flowers being drunk worketh the same effect cleanseth the Reynes and asswageth inward inflammations If the Eyes be washed therewith it taketh away all heat and rednesse in them and if the sorâ—s of the Legs be washed therewith it healeth them throughly Sarsa parilla iâ— not convenient to be given to those whose Livers are over-hot nor to such as have Agues CHAP. CCCXXX Of Star-wort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in
become halfe foolish by wanting their wits and senses The Leaves dryed and given in powder to drink have the like operation yet in a weaker manner It is thought also that the Berries will procure Sleep being taken at night in Drink The Roots being made into powder and taken in Wine easeth the pain of the Cholick in a short space Crollius saith that the black Berries of the Herb-Paris have the Signature of the Apple of the Eye and therefore the Oyle Chymically extracted from thence is a Remedy so effectuall for all the diseases of the Eyes that it is called by some Anima Oculorum the soule of the Eye It was formerly thought to be very poysonous but Pena and Lobel by their experiments upon two Dogs found not onely that it was not dangerous but that it was effectual to expel the most deadly operation of Sublimatum and Arsenick Having now passed through the three Regions of Mans Body and taken notice of the principall parts thereof together with the Simples thereunto appropriated I come at last by the assistance of God to the Limbes to whose particular Maladies I should have spoken distinctly as I have hitherto to many particular distempers but the time not permitting by reason that the Printer is like to tarry if I make not the more hast I am compelled to be as briefe as I can and therefore I shall onely handle some principall Woundhearbes because the Limbes are more Subject to Wounds then any other part and so conclude CHAP. CCCXXXII Of St. Johns-wort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 super imagines Spectra dominium habeat and therefore some of the Latines as Superstitious as the ancient Greekes have called it Fuga Daemonum supposing it to drive away Devils of which opinion was Paracelsus who called it Solterrestris the terrestriall sunne for the Sun in the firmament doth by its light as some suppose cause all the Spirits of darknesse to vanish so doth this saith he because it is principall of the Solar plants growing upon the Earth It is called Hypericum also in Latine and some call it Perforata or Pâ—rosa from the many holes that are to be seen in the Leaves being held against the light The Kindes I find but seven sorts of Salut Johns wort and therefore I shall put them all down 1. Common Saint Johns wort 2. Small upright Saint Johns wort 3. Small creeping Saint Johns wort 4. Round leafed Saint Johns wort 5. Great woolly Saint Johns wort 6. Small creeping woolly Saint Johns wort 7. Indian Saint Iohns wort with white Flowers The Forme The Common Saint Iohns wort shooteth forth brownish upright hard round stalkes about halfe a yard high spreading divers branches from the sides up to the tops of them having two small leaves set one against another at every place which are of a deep green colour somewhat like unto the leaves of the lesser Centory but narrower and full of holes in every leafe which cannot be so well perceives unlesse they be held up to the light at the tops of the stalks and branches stand yellow flowers made of five leaves a piece with many yellow threds in the middle which being bruised yeeld a reddish juice like bloud after which come small round heads wherein is contained small blackish seed smelling like Rosin the Râ—ot is hard and woody with divers strings and Fibres at it and of a brownish colour which abideth in the ground many yeeres though the stalkes perish every winter The Places and Time The fâ—are first grow in Woods and Copses and divers other places in the borders of fields and higher pasture-grounds in most places of this Land the fift was found neere Salamanca and Valentia in Spaine the sixt is found many times in our owne Countrey the last came from the West-Indies They doe all begin to flower about Midsummer and may therefore haply be called Saint Iohns wort and their seed for the most part is ripe in the end of Iuly and August The Temperature Saint Iohns wort is hot and dry and of thin parts as Galen saith The Signature and Vertues The little holes whereof the leaves of Saint Iohns wort are full doe resemble the pores of the skin and therefore it is profitable for all hurts and wounds that can happen thereunto and also for inward bruises aswell of the bodie and flesh as of the Joynts and Skin if it be made into an Oyle Oyntment or Salve bathe or lotion and used outwardly or boyled in Wine and drunke It hath power to open obstructions to dissolve tumors to consolâ—date or sodder together the Lips of Wounds and to strengthen the parts that are weake and feeble The decoction of Herb and flowers but especially of the seed made in Wine and drunke or the seed made into powder and drunke with the juice of Knot-grasse helpeth all manner of spitting and vomiting of bloud be it by any veine broken inwardly by bruises falls or the like The same helpeth those that are bitten or stung by any venemous Creature and is good for those that are troubled with the Stone in the Kid-neys or cannot make Water and provoketh Womens Courses Two drams of the seed made into powder and drunke in a little broth doth gently expell Choler or congealed bloud in the Stomach The Decoction of the Leaves and Seeds being drunk somewhat warme before the Fits of Agues whether they be quotidians tertians or quartans doth alter the fits and by often using doth drive them quite away The seed is much commended being drunke for fourty dayes together to help the Sciatica the Falling Sicknesse and the Palsy The Oyle of St. Johns-wort is excellent for old Sores and Vlcers aswell as green Woundes in the Legs or else where as also for cramps and aches in the joynts and paines in the Veines and burnings by fire and so is the Juice of the green Leaves being applyed or the powder of the herb strewed thereon CHAP. CCCXXXIII Of Clownes Woundwort The Names IT is thought of some to be of later invention than to have any Greek name yet it is very probable that though the vertues hereof were not throughly discovered till of late it was not onely known formerly but called also 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as being a kind thereof because it is of so great efficacy to cure those wounds that are made with Iron and upon this account Thalius calleth it as is supposed Sideritis prima which he termeth gravis admodum odoris It is called in Latine Sideritis Anglica strumosâ radice and Panax Coloni because a Countryman cut his Leg to the bone with a Sithe and healed himself within seaven dayes with nothing but this herb and a little Hoggsgrease made into the forme of a Pultis and for the same reason it is called Clownes Woundwort in English and by some Clownes Alheale but neither Panax nor Allheale doe properly agree with it for though it