A TREATISE OF Chirurgical Diseases.
CHAP. I. edit
Of Tumours in general, Abcesses or Impostumes, Breakings out, Pustules, and Tubercles. edit
What is a Tumour?
A Tumour is a rising or bloated Swelling rais'd in some part of the Body by a Setling of Humours.
How is this setling of Humours produc'd?
Two several ways, viz. by Fluxion and Congestion.
What is the Setling by Fluxion?
It is that which raiseth the Tumour all at once, or in a very little space of time, by the Fluidity of the Matter.
What is the Setling by Congestion?
It is that which produceth the Tumour by little and little, and almost insensibly, by reason of the slow Progress and thickness of the Matter.
Which are the most dangerous Tumours, those that arise from Fluxion, or those that derive their Original from Congestion?
They that proceed from Congestion, because their thick and gross Matter always renders 'em obstinate, and difficult to be cur'd.
Whence do the differences of Tumours proceed?
They are taken, first, from the Natural Humours, Simple, Mixt, and Alter'd: Simple, as the Phlegmon, which is made of Blood, and the Erysipelas of Choler; Mixt, as the Erysipelas Phlegmon, which consists of Blood mingl'd with a Portion of Choler; or the Phlegmonous Erysipelas, which proceeds from Choler intermixt with a Portion of Blood: Alter'd, as the Melia which is compos'd of many Humours, that can not be any longer distinguish'd by reason of their too great Alteration. Secondly, the difference of Tumours is taken from their likeness to some other thing, as the Carbuncle and the Talpa, the former resembling a burning Coal, and the other a Mole, according to the Etymology of their Latin Names. Thirdly, From the Parts where they are situated; as the Ophthalmy in the Eye and the Quinsey in the Throat. Fourthly, from Disease that causeth 'em, as Venereal and Pestilential Buboes. Fifthly, from certain Qualities found in some, and not in others; as the Encysted Tumours, which have their Matter clos'd within their proper Cystes or Membranes, and so of many others.
How many kinds of Tumours are there that comprehend at once all the particular Species?
They are four in Number, viz. the Natural Tumours, the Encysted, the Critical, and the Malignant.
What are natural Tumours?
They are those that are made of the four Humours contain'd in the Mass of the Blood, or else of many at once intermixt together.
What are the four Humours contain'd in the Mass of the Blood?
They are Blood, Choler, Phlegm, and Melancholy, every one whereof produceth its particular Tumour: Thus the Blood produces the Phlegmon, Choler the Erysipelas, Phlegm the Oedema, and Melancholy the Scirrhus. The Mixture of these is in like manner the Cause of the Erysipelatous Phlegmon, the Oedomatous Phlegmon or Phlegmonous Erysipelas, and the Phlegmonous Oedema, according to the quality of the Humours which are predominant, from whence the several Tumours take their Names.
What are the Encysted Tumours?
They are those the Matter whereof is contain'd in certain Cystes, or Membranous Bags; as the Meliceris, and the Struma or Kings-Evil.
What are Critical Tumours?
They are those that appear all at once in acute Diseases, and terminate them with good or bad Success.
What are Malignant Tumours?
They are those that are always accompany'd with extraordinary and dreadful Symptoms, and whose Consequences are also very dangerous; as the Carbuncle in the Plague.
What are Impostumes or Abcesses, Breakings out and Pustules?
Indeed, it may be affirm'd, that all these kinds of Tumours scarce differ one from another, except in their size or bigness; nevertheless, to speak properly, by the Names of Impostumes or Abcesses are understood gross Tumours that are suppurable, or may be dissolv'd, and by those of Breakings out and Pustules, only simple Pusteal Wheals, or small Tumours, that appear in great Numbers, and which frequently do not continue to Suppuration; some of them consisting of very few Humours, and others altogether of dry Matter.
What difference is there between a Tumour and an Impostume or Abcess?
They differ in this particular, that all Tumours are not Impostumes nor Abcesses; but there is no Impostume nor Abcess that is not a Tumour: As for Example, Wens and Ganglions are Tumours, yet are not Abcesses nor Impostumes; whereas these last are always Tumours in regard that they cause Bunches and Elevations.
CHAP. II. edit
Of the general Method to be observ'd in the curing of Tumours. edit
What ought a Surgeon chiefly to observe in Tumours, before he undertake their Cure?
He ought to know three things, viz. 1. The Nature or Quality of the Tumour. 2. The time of its formation and 3. Its situation: The Quality of the Tumour is to be known, because the Natural one is otherwise handl'd than that which is Encysted, Critical or Malignant. As for the time of its Formation, it is four-fold, viz. the Beginning, Increase, State, and Declination, wherein altogether different Remedies are to be apply'd. The Situation of the Tumour must be also observ'd, because the dressing and opening of it ought to be as exact as is possible, to avoid the meeting with an Artery or neighbouring Tendon.
How many ways are all the Tumours that are curable, terminated?
They are terminated after two manners, viz. either by dissolving 'em, or by Suppuration.
Are not the Scirrhus and the Esthiomenus or Gangrene, two means that sometimes serve to terminate and cure Impostumes?
Yes, but it is done imperfectly, in regard that a Tumour or Impostume cannot be said to be absolutely cur'd, as long as there remains any thing of the Original Malady, as it happens in the Scirrhus, where the Matter is harden'd by an imperfect dissolving of it, or when the Impostume degenerates into a greater and more dangerous Distemper, as it appears in the Esthiomenus or Gangrene that succeeds it.
Which is the most effectual means of curing Impostumes, that of dissolving, or that of bringing them to Suppuration?
That of dissolving 'em is without doubt the most successful, and that which ought to be us'd as much as is possible; nevertheless some Cases are to be excepted, wherein the Tumours or Abcesses are Critical and Malignant; for then the way of Suppuration is not only preferable, but must also be procur'd by all sorts of means, even by opening; which may be done upon this occasion, without waiting for their perfect Maturity.
What are the Precautions whereto a Surgeon ought to have regard before he undertake the opening of Tumours?
He must take care to avoid cutting the Fibres of the Muscles, and in great Abcesses, to cause all the corrupt Matter to be discharg'd at once, to prevent the Patient's falling into a Swoon.
Ought the opening of Tumours always to be made longitudinally, and according to the direct Course of the Fibres?
No, it is sometimes necessary to open 'em with a Crucial Incision, when they are large, or when a Cystis or Membranous Vehicle is to be extirpated.
How many sorts of Matter are there that issue forth in the Suppuration of Tumours?
There are four sorts, viz. the Pus, Ichor, Sanies, and Virus.
What isPus?
It is a thick Matter, and white as Milk.
What is Ichor?
It is a thick Matter like the Pus, but of divers Colours.
What is Sanies?
It is a watery Matter that riseth up in Ulcers, almost after the same manner as the Sap in Trees.
What is Virus?
It is a kind of watry Matter, being whitish, yellowish, and greenish at the same time; which issueth out of Ulcers, very much stinking, and is endu'd with corrosive and malignant Qualities.
How many general Causes are there of Tumours?
There are three, viz. the Primitive, the Antecedent, and the Conjunct: The Primitive is that which gives occasion to the Tumours; as for Example, a Fall or a Blow receiv'd. The Antecedent is that which supplies it with Matter, such is the Mass of Blood that thickens and maintains the Phlegmon. Lastly, the Conjunct Cause is the overflowing Blood or Matter, which immediately forms the Tumor.
What regard ought to be had to these three sorts of Causes in the Cure?
The Primitive Cause may be prevented by avoiding the Falls, Blows, or other Hurts, and the Antecedent by diminishing the Plethory of the Blood, and cooling the whole Mass by Phlebotomy. The Conjunct Cause, which is the overflowing of the Blood, may be also remov'd in dispersing it by dissolving, or else in discharging it by Suppuration.
What is a Crisis?
It is a sudden setling of Humours, which happens in Diseases, whereby they are usually terminated.
How are these Critical Setlings effected?
By the Strength of Nature, which either expels the peccant Humours thro' the Belly, or carries them to the Habitude of the Body; for in the former she causeth Fluxes of Humours, Urine and Blood; as in the other she excites Sweatings, Tumours, and even a Gangrene it self.
In what Parts do the Critical Tumours usually arise?
In the Glandules, which the Ancients call'd the Emunctories of the Brain, Heart, and Liver; for they gave the Name of Emunctories of the Brain to the thick Glandules which lie under the Ears, that of the Emunctories of the Heart to those that are under the Arm-Pits; and that of the Emunctories of the Liver to those under the Groin. Now Malignant Tumours may arise in all these parts, but the Venereal happen only in the Groin.
CHAP. III. edit
Of Natural Tumours. edit
ARTICLE I. edit
Of the Phlegmon and its Dependancies. edit
What is a Phlegmon?
It is a red Tumour occasion'd by the Blood diffus'd in some part, wherein it causeth extension, pain, and heat with beating.
Are Aneurisms and Varices, which are Tumours, made by the Blood, to be reckon'd among the Phlegmons?
No, because the Blood that forms the Aneurisms and Varices is not extravasated nor accompany'd with Inflammation, but only a Tumour of Blood proceeding from the Dilatation of the Arteries and Veins.
May Echymoses or Contusions consisting of extravasated Blood, be esteem'd as Phlegmons?
By no means, in regard that it is not sufficient that the Blood be extravasated for the producing of a Phlegmon; it must also cause Pain, Heat, and a Beating, with Inflammation, which is not to be found in the Echymoses, except in great ones, after they have been neglected for a long time; where the corrupted Blood ought to be let out immediately, to prevent the Inflammation, overmuch Suppuration, and many other ill Consequences.
Is the Phlegmon always compos'd of pure Blood?
No, it may happen sometimes to partake of Choler, Phlegm, or Melancholy; on which account it is nam'd an Erysipelatous, Oedomatous, or Scirrhous Phlegmon, always retaining the Name of the predominant Humour, which is the Blood; and so of the others.
REMEDIES. edit
What are the Remedies proper for a Phlegmon?
They are of two sorts, viz. General and Particular; the former having regard to the antecedent cause, and the other to the conjunct. The Phlegmon is cur'd in its antecedent Cause, by Phlebotomy or letting Blood, by good Diet, and sometimes by Purgations, by which means the Plethory, Heat, and Alteration of the Blood is diminished; But Fomentations, Cataplasms and Plaisters facilitate the Cure in the conjunct cause, either by dissolving the Tumour, or bringing it to Suppuration.
At what time is the Opening of a Vein necessary?
In the Beginning and Increase.
What are the Remedies proper to be us'd immediately upon the first appearing of the Tumour?
They are Resolvents and Anodynes; such as those that are prepar'd with Chervil boil'd in Whey, adding a little Saffron to wash the Tumour, and soak the Linnen Cloaths apply'd thereto, which are often renew'd, and may be laid on with the Chervil.
Or else take the Urine of a healthful Person, wherein is boil'd an Ounce of Saffron for a Glass, and bath the Tumour with it.
The Sperm of Frogs is also made use of to very good purpose, either alone, or with Lime-Water and Soap mixt together; or Oak-Leaves and Plantane beaten small, and apply'd. But Care must be more especially taken to avoid cooling Medicines, Oils, and Grease, which are pernicious in great Inflammations.
What ought to be done in the increase of the Tumour and Pain?
They are to be asswag'd by mollifying and dissolving; to which end a Cataplasm or Pultis is to be made with the Leaves of Elder, Wall-wort or Dwarf-Elder, Mallows, Violet-Plants, Camomile, and Melilot; whereto is added beaten Line-seed; causing the whole Mass to be boil'd in Whey, and allowing to every Pint, or thereabout, a Yolk of an Egg, twenty Grains of Saffron, a quarter of a Pound of Honey, and the Crum of white Bread, till it comes to a necessary Consistence. Or else take Cow's Dung instead of the above-mention'd Herbs, and mix with it all the other Ingredients, to make a Cataplasm, which must be renew'd at least every twelve Hours.
What is to be done in the State?
If the Tumour cannot be dissolv'd (as was intended) it must be brought to Suppuration by Cataplasms, consisting of these Ingredients, viz. Garlick, White Lillies roasted under Embers, Milk, and Unguentum Basilicon.
Or else only take a Glass of Milk, in which an Ounce of Soap is dissolv'd, to wet the Linnen apply'd to the Tumour; and let it be often reiterated: Otherwise make use of Sorrel boil'd with fresh Butter, and a little Leaven or Yeast. The Plaister Diasulphuris is also most excellent either alone, or, if you please, mixt with Diachylon and Basilicon.
What is to be done in the Declination after the Suppuration?
The Ulcer must be at first gently dry'd with a Plaister of Diasulphuris or Diachylon, and afterward that of Diapalma may be us'd, and Ceruse or White Lead.
What Method is to be observ'd in case there be any Disposition toward a Gangrene?
It is requisite during the great Inflammation to make use of good Vinegar, in an Ounce whereof is dissolv'd a Dram of White Vitriol, with as much Sal Ammoniack, to bath the Tumour: Or else take the Tincture of Myrrh and Aloes, with a little Unguentum Ægyptiacum, and afterward make a Digestive of Turpentine, the Yolk of an Egg, and Honey, mingling it with a little Spirit of Wine, or Brandy, if there remains any Putrifaction or Rottenness.
Remedies for Aneurisms and Varices.
What is to be done in order to cure an Aneurism?
When it is little, as that which happens after an Operation of Phlebotomy or letting Blood ill perform'd, it may be sufficient to lay upon the affected Part a thin Plate of Lead, or else a Piece of Money or Counter wrapt up in a Bolster, and to bind it on very streight: But a Piece of Paper chew'd is much better for that purpose.
If the Anuerism be considerable, an Astringent Plaister may be us'd, such as the following.
Take Bolus, Dragon's Blood, Frankincence, Aloes, and Hypocystis, of each a Dram; mingle the whole with two beaten Eggs, and add Wax to give it the consistence of a Plaister, which may be apply'd alone, or mixt with an equal Portion of Emplastrum contra Rupturam, always making a small Bandage to keep it on. Emplastrum de Cicuta hath also a wonderful effect.
When the Aneurism is excessive, it is absolutely necessary to proceed to a Manual Operation, the manner whereof shall be shewn hereafter in the Treatise of great Operations.
What is requisite to be done in the Varices?
Varices are not generally dangerous, but even conduce to the preservation of Health; nevertheless, if they become troublesome by reason of their greatness, and the Pains that accompanie 'em, they may be mollify'd with the following Remedy.
Take the Mucilages of the Seeds of Psyllium and Line, of each two Ounces; of Populeon two Ounces; Oleum Lumbricorum & Hyperici, of each one Ounce; and of the Meal of Wheat one Ounce, adding Wax to make the Consistence of a Plaister; part of which spread upon Linnen or Leather, must be apply'd to the Varix, and ty'd thereto with a small Band.
If the Blood abound too much, it may be discharg'd by the Application of Leeches, or by a Puncture made with a Lancet: Afterward lay upon the Part a Piece of Lead sow'd up in a Cloth, and let it be kept close with a proper Bandage. Otherwise you may make use of an Astringent, such as this.
Take a Pomegranate, cut it in pieces, and boil it with as much Salt as may be taken up with the Tip of your Fingers, in a Gallon of strong Vinegar; then dip a Spunge in this Vinegar, apply it to the Varix, bind it on, and continue the use of it twice a Day for a Month together.
Remedies for Echymoses, Contusions, or Bruises. edit
How are Echymoses to be treated?
All possible means must be us'd to dissolve 'em, by laying Slices of Beef upon the Part, renewing 'em very often, or applying Linnen Rags dipt in Spirit of Wine impregnated with Saffron.
They may be also dissolv'd with the Roots of Briony grated and apply'd thereto, or else with Plaister or Mortar, Soot, Oil of Olives and Unguentum Divinum, a Mixture whereof being made, is to be put between two Rags, and laid upon the Tumour or Swelling.
If the Echymosis happens in a Nervous Part, Balsam of Peru may be us'd, or, for want thereof, Oleum Lumbricorum & Hyperici, with luke-warm Wine, with which the Bolsters must be soak'd, to be laid upon it.
When the Echymosis is great, and much Blood is diffus'd between the Skin and the Flesh, the safest way is to make an Opening to let it out, lest a too plentiful and dangerous Suppuration should ensue, or even a Gangrene it self. However, a Surgeon ought to proceed in the curing of an Echymosis in the Face with great Circumspection, which must be always prepar'd for Incision.
Of phlegmonous Tumors or Impostumes, and of Remedies proper for 'em. edit
What are the Tumours or Impostumes that partake of a Phlegmon?
They are the Bubo, Carbuncle, Anthrax, Furunculus, Phyma, Phygeton, Panaritium or Paronychia, Burn, Gangrene, and Kibe or Chilblain.
What is a Bubo?
A Bubo is a Tumour which ariseth in the Groin, being accompany'd with Heat, Pain, Hardness, and sometimes a Feaver.
What is a Carbuncle?
A Carbuncle is a hard Swelling, red, burning, and inseparable from a Fever: It is cover'd with a black Crust or Scab, that afterward falls off at the Suppuration, leaving a deep and dangerous Ulcer, and which sometimes doth not suppurate at all.
What is an Anthrax?
The Anthrax is very near the same thing as the Carbuncle, only with this difference, that the latter always appears in the Glandulous Parts, and the Anthrax every where else.
What is a Furunculus?
It is a kind of Boil, or benign Carbuncle, which somewhat resembles the Head of a Nail, and is on that Account call'd Clou by the French, causing Pains, as if a Nail were driven into the Flesh.
What is a Phygeton?
The Phygeton is a small, red, and inflam'd Exuberance, situated in the Miliary Glandules of the Skin, where it causeth a pricking Pain, without Suppuration.
What is a Phyma?
The Phyma appears after the same manner as the Phygeton, and suppurates.
What are the Remedies proper for all these sorts of phlegmonous Tumours and Impostumes?
They are Cataplasms and Plaisters Anodyn, Emollient, Resolvent, and Suppurative, which are us'd proportionably as in the Phlegmons.
What is a Gangrene, Sphacelus, or Esthiomenus?
The Gangrene and Sphacelus signifie the same thing, nevertheless are commonly distinguish'd; the former being a Mortification begun, and the Sphacelus an entire or perfect Mortification; call'd also Necrosis and Sideratio. An Esthiomenus is a Disposition to Mortification, discover'd by the softness of the Part; and a Gangrene is defin'd to be a Mortification of a Part, occasion'd by the Interception of the Spirits, and the Privation of the Natural Heat.
What are the causes of a Gangrene in general?
Every thing that can hinder the Natural Heat from exerting it self in a Part; as strong Ligatures, astringent or resolvent Medicines, not conveniently us'd in great Inflammations; a violent Hæmorrhage; or Old Age, whereby the Spirits are exhausted; the bitings of Mad Dogs; excessive Cold, &c.
By what Signs is the Gangrene known?
It is discover'd by the livid Colour of the Skin, which departs from the Flesh, the softness, coldness, and insensibility of the Part; and sometimes by its dryness and blackness, from whence exhales a cadaverous Stench, with Sanies issuing forth after Punctures or Scarifications made therein. Lastly, a Gangrene is perceiv'd by the cold Sweats, Swoonings, Syncope's, and Delirium's that invade the Patient, and which are all the Fore-runners of approaching Death.
Is a Gangrene only found in the Flesh, and soft Parts of the Body?
It happens also in the Bones; and is then call'd Caries.
How is this Caries or Gangrene of the Bone discover'd, when it lies hid under the Flesh?
It is known by the black Colour of the Neighbouring Flesh, the Stink of the Sanies that comes forth, the intolerable Pains felt thereabouts, which are fix'd and continual before the Impostume and Ulcer appear; but when the Ulcer is made, a kind of roughness may be perceiv'd in the Bone.
REMEDIES. edit
What are the Remedies proper for a Gangrene?
They are those that take away the mortify'd and corrupt Parts, and recall the Natural Heat; both which Indications are exactly answer'd in the Extirpation of what is already corrupted, with the Incision-Knife; and the Restauration of the Natural Heat by the following Remedies.
Take an Ounce of good Vinegar, steeping therein a Dram of White Vitriol, with as much Sal Ammoniack: Let it be us'd in bathing the Part; and apply thereto Bolsters well soak'd in the same Liquor. This Remedy is convenient in the first Disposition toward a Gangrene: Or, if you please, you may make use of the Yellow Water, which is made with Corrosive Sublimate and Lime-Water; taking, for Example, half a Dram of Corrosive Sublimate to be infus'd in a Pint of Lime-Water.
But a Tincture of Myrrh and Aloes is more efficacious, wherein Unguentum Ægyptiacum is steep'd; or else Lime-Water kept for that purpose, in which have been boil'd two Ounces of Sulphur or Brimstone, with two Drams of Mercurius Dulcis; adding four Ounces of Spirit of Wine, to make an excellent Phegedænick Water, with which the Part may be bathed, and the Bolsters soak'd.
If the Gangrene passeth to the Bone, the Ulcer must be immediately cleans'd with Brandy, and Euphorbium afterward put into it, laying also some upon the Bolsters, and abstaining from all sorts of Oils and Greases. But if these Remedies prove unprofitable, recourse is then to be had to the Incision-Knife, Fire, or Amputation; the manner of performing which several Operations, is explain'd hereafter.
What are Kibes or Chilblains?
They are painful Tumours, which are often accompany'd with Inflammation; they happen more especially in the nervous and outward Parts, as the Heel, and are so much the more sensibly felt, as the Air and Cold are more sharp and Vehement.
What is to be done in order to cure these Kibes or Chilblains?
The Heel or affected Part must be wash'd and dipt in Wine boil'd with Allum and Salt, whereof a Cataplasm may be afterward made, by adding Meal of Rye, Honey, and Brimstone. The Juice of a hot Turnep apply'd with Unguentum Rosatum, is also very good, or Petroleum alone.
What is a Panaritium?
Panaritium or Paronychia, is a Tumour which generally ariseth in the Extremity of the Fingers, at the Root of the Nails: It is red, and accompany'd with very great Pain, even so exquisite, that the whole Arm is sensible thereof, insomuch that a Fever sometimes ensues, and a Gangrene; the Humour being contain'd between the Bone and the Periosteum, or that little Membrane with which it is immediately invested.
What Remedies are convenient for the curing of Panaritium?
Anodyn Cataplasms are to be first apply'd, that is to say, such as serve to asswage excessive Pain, as that which is compos'd of Millk, Line-seeds beaten, large Figs, the Yolk of an Egg, Saffron, Honey and Oleum Lumbricorum, with the Crum of white Bread. Afterward you may endeavour to dissolve it, by applying Oil of Almonds, Saccharum Saturni, and Ear-Wax, or else Balsam of Sulphur. The Plaister of Mucilages, and that of Sulphur or Brimstone, dissolv'd in Wine, is also a most excellent Resolvent and Anodyn.
If it be requisite to bring this Tumour to Suppuration, white Lillies roasted under Embers may be added to the preceeding Cataplasm; or else a new Cataplasm may be made with Sorrel boil'd, fresh Butter, and a little Leaven.
What is a Burn?
A burn is an Impression of Fire made upon a Part, wherein remains a great deal of Heat, with Blisters full of serous Particles, or Scabs, accordingly as the Fire hath taken more or less effect.
What are the Remedies proper for a Burn?
A Burn is cur'd by the speedy Application of fresh Mud re-iterated many times successively; by that of peel'd Onions, Unguentum Rosatum, and Populeon, mixt with the Yolk of an Egg and unslack'd-Lime: Cray-Fishes or Crabs pounded alive in a Leaden-Mortar; and a great Number of other things.
If the Burn be in the Face, you may more especially take the Mucilages of the Seeds of Quinces and Psyllium, and Frog's-Sperm, of each an equal quantity, adding to every four Ounces twenty Grains of Saccharum Saturni. This Composition may be spread on the Part with a Feather, and cover'd with fine Brown Paper. It is an admirable and approved Receipt.
If the Burn hath made an Escar or Crust, it may be remov'd with fresh Butter spread upon a Colewort or Cabbage Leaf, and apply'd hot. But in Case the Scab is too hard, and doth not fall off, it must be open'd, to give passage to the Pus or corrupt Matter, the stay of which would occasion a deep Ulcer underneath. The same Method is to be observ'd in the Pustules or Blisters, two Days after they are rais'd, applying also the Ointment of quick Lime, Oil of Roses, and Yolks of Eggs.
ARTICLE II. edit
Of the Erysipelas and its Dependances. edit
What is an Erysipelas?
An Erysipelas, commonly call'd St. Anthony's Fire, is a small Elevation produc'd by a Flux of Choler dispers'd and running between the Skin and the Flesh. It is known by its yellowish Colour, great Heat and Prickings.
REMEDIES. edit
What are the Remedies proper for an Erysipelas?
An Erysipelas that ariseth in the Head and Breast is not without danger, and the Cure of it ought to be undertaken with great Care in the Application as well of internal as external Remedies: For it is requisite to take inwardly a Dose of the Diaphoretick Mineral, Crabs-Eyes, Egg-shels, Powder of Vipers, and other Medicines; as also Potions that have the like Virtues, such as the following. Take four Ounces of Elder-Flower-Water, adding thereto a Scruple of the volatile Salt of Vipers or Hart's-Horn with an Ounce of Syrrup of red Poppies.
Phlebotomy or Blood-letting hath no place here, unless there be a great Plethory, but frequent Clysters are not to be rejected, viz. such as are made of Whay, Chervil, Succory, and Violet-Plants, adding a Dram of Mineral Crystal dissolv'd with two Ounce of Honey of Violets.
As for outward Applications, Linnen-Rags dipt in the Spirit of Wine impregnated with Camphire and Saffron, are to be laid upon the Tumour, and renew'd as fast as they are dry'd. An equal quantity of Chalk and Myrrh beaten to Powder, may also be strew'd upon a Sheet of Cap-Paper over-spread with Honey, and apply'd to the Part.
If the Heat and Pain grow excessive, take half a Dram of Saccharum Saturni, twenty Grains of Camphire, as much Opium, with two Drams of red Myrrh, to be infus'd in a Gallon of White-Wine: Let this Liquor be kept to soak the Cloaths that are laid upon the Erysipelas, and often renew'd. But to dress the Face, a Canvass Cloth may be us'd, which hath been dipt in a Medicine prepar'd with a Gallon of Whey, two Yolks of Eggs, and a Dram of Saffron.
Moreover amidst all these Remedies, it is necessary to oblige the Patient to keep to a good Diet, and to prescribe for his ordinary Drink a Diet-Drink made of Hart's-Horn, the Tops of the lesser Centory, Pippins cut in Slices with their Skins, and Liquorish; a little good Wine may be also allow'd, with the Advice of the Physician.
Of Erysipelatous Tumours or Impostumes, and their Remedies. edit
What are the Tumours or Impostumes that partake of the Nature of an Erysipelas?
They are the dry and moist Herpes, the former being that which is call'd the Tetter or Ring-Worm; and the other a kind of yellow-Bladders, Pustules, or Wheals, that cause itching, and raise small corroding Ulcers in the Skin: To these may be added divers sorts of Scabs and Itch.
The Remedies prescrib'd for the Erysipelas may be us'd for both these kinds of Herpes; as also Lotions or Bathing-Liquors made of Lime-Water, and a Decoction of Wormwood and Sal Ammoniack, allowing half a Dram to four Ounces of Liquor. Or else take half a Dram of Sal Saturni, and put it into a Glass of the Decoction of Fumitory or Chervil. You may also make use of the Oil of Tartar per deliquium, to make a Liniment either alone, or mingl'd with the above-mention'd Decoctions.
ARTICLE III. edit
Of the Oedema. edit
What is the Oedema?
It is a white soft Tumour, with very little sense of Pain, which ariseth from the Settling of a pituitous Humour.
What are the Remedies proper for an Oedema?
They are Fomentations, Cataplasms, Liniments, and Plaisters.
The Fomentations are made with Bundles of Wall-Wort or Dwarf-Elder, thrown into a hot Oven after the Bread is bak'd, and sprinkled with Wine: Afterward being taken out smoaking, they are unty'd, open'd, and wrapt about the Part, putting a warm Linnen Cloth over 'em. This Operation is to be re-iterated; and by this means the Humour is dissolv'd thro' Transpiration by Sweat.
The Cataplasms are compos'd of Camomile, Melilot, St. John's-Wort, Sage, Wall-Wort, Pellitory of the Wall, Roots of Briony and Onions, all boil'd together in White Wine with Honey, adding, if you please, a few Cummin or Fennel Seeds beaten. Cataplasms are also made of Horse-Dung and the Seeds of Cummin beaten, which are boil'd in strong Vinegar, and mixt with Barly-Meal to the Consistence of Pap.
The Plaisters are prepar'd with an Ounce of Diapalma, half on Ounce of Martiatum, a Pint of Oil of Lillies, half an Ounce of Cummin-Seeds powder'd, half a Dram of Sal Ammoniack, and an Ounce of yellow Wax to make a Consistence.
If any hardness remains, the Plaister of Mucilages may be apply'd, or that which is made of the Gums Bdellium, Ammoniack, and Galbanum, dissolv'd in Vinegar. But Care must be taken not to omit the Purgatives of Jalap to the quantity of a Dram in a Glass of White-Wine; or of half an Ounce of Lozenges of Diacarthamum, which are effectual in drawing out the bottom of pituitous and serous Humours that nourish the Oedema's.
Of Oedomatous Tumours and Impostumes. edit
What are the kinds of Tumours that partake of the Nature of an Oedema?
They are the Phlyctæna, the Emphysema, the Batrachos or Ranunculus, the Wen, the Talpa, the Bronchocele, the Ganglion, the Fungus, the Scurf, the Scrophula or King's-Evil, and all sorts of Dropsies both general and particular.
What are Phlyctæna's?
They are Pustules or Blisters fill'd with a white and somewhat yellowish Humour.
What is an Emphysema?
It is a kind of flatuous Tumour, wherein Wind is contain'd, with a little slimy Phlegm.
What is a Batrachos or Ranunculus?
It is a Blister fill'd with slimy Water, that ariseth under the Tongue near the String, and in French is call'd Grenouillette, or the little Frog; which is the same with its Greek and Latin Names.
What is a Wen?
It is a Tumour consisting of thick plaistry Phlegm, which is reckon'd among the Encysted.
What is a Talpa?
It is a soft and very broad Tumour, which usually appears in the Head and Face, containing a white, thick and pituitous Matter.
What is a Bronchocele?
It is a bunch'd Tumour which ariseth in the Throat, and causeth it to swell extremely; being compos'd of thick Phlegm mix'd with a little Blood, and ranked among the Encysted Tumours.
What is a Ganglion?
It is a very hard Tumour, void of Pain and wavering, produc'd by thick Phlegm: But it is always found upon some Nerve or Tendon.
What is a Fungus?
It is a spungy Tumour that grows upon Tendons bruis'd or weaken'd by some Hurt.
What is the Scurf?
It is a whitish and scaly Tumour rais'd in the Skin of the Head by a viscous and mixt Phlegm, having its Root in the bottom of the Skin.
What is the Scrophula or King's-Evil?
Scrophulæ or Strumæ, commonly call'd the King's-Evil, are Tumours that generally shew themselves in the Glandules of the Neck, and in all those Parts where there are any. They consist of a viscous, serous, and malignant Phlegm, The Source or Root whereof is suppos'd to be in the Glandules of the Mesentery. They are also of the number of the Encysted Tumours.
What is the Dropsie?
It is a soft Tumour occasion'd by the setling of abundance of serous Matter in the Parts where it appears.
How many sorts of Dropsies are there?
There are three general Species, viz. the Ascites, Tympanites, and Leucophlegmatia.
What is an Ascites?
It is a kind of Dropsy that forms the Tumour or Swelling of the Abdomen or lower Belly, by a Mass of Water.
What is a Tympanites?
It is a kind of Dropsy, which in like manner causeth a Tumour or Swelling in the lower Belly, with this difference, that a great deal of Wind is mixt with the Water, which renders the Tumour transparent, and sounding, as it were a Drum; whence this Disease hath taken its Name.
What is the Dropsy call'd Leucophlegmatia?
It is a Tumour, or, to speak more properly; a general Swelling or Bloating of all the other Parts of the Body, as well as of the lower Belly. It is produc'd by a viscous and mucilaginous sort of Phlegm; whence it happens that the Print of the Fingers remains in those places that have been press'd.
What are the particular kinds of Dropsies?
They are those that are incident to different Parts, of which they bear the Names; as the Hydrocephalus, which is the Dropsy of the Head; the Exomphalus, of the Navel, and the Hydrocele of the Scrotum. There is also a Dropsy of the Breast, and that of the Matrix.
What are the Remedies proper for all these sorts of Tumours or Dropsies?
They are in general all those that are agreeable to the Oedema, which are variously us'd, as Liniments, Fomentations, Cataplasms, and Plaisters: Internal Medicines ought also to be much consider'd, as Diaphoreticks, Sudorificks, and Purgatives, when they are assisted by a regular Diet.
A Decoction of the Roots of Briony with Cinnamon and Liquorish, provokes Urine very much; as well as a Decoction of Turneps and Carrets, and an Infusion of Sage in White-Wine.
ARTICLE IV. edit
Of a Scirrhus, and its peculiar Remedies. edit
What is a Scirrhus?
It is a hard unmoveable Tumour, almost altogether void of Pain, and of a livid dark Colour; which is form'd of a Melancholick Humour, frequently succeeding Phlegmons and Oedema's that have not been well dress'd with convenient Remedies.
How is a Scirrhus cur'd?
By mollifying or dissolving it, and seldom by bringing it to Suppuration.
It may be mollify'd by the application of a Cataplasm or Pultis, compos'd of the Leaves of Violet-Plants, Mallows, Beets, Elder, Rue, and Wormwood, with Camomile-Flowers, Horse-Dung, Cow-Dung, and White Lillies. The whole Mass is to be boil'd together in Wine, afterward adding Honey and Hogs-Lard, to make a Cataplasm thereof with the Crum of White Bread.
It is dissolv'd with Plaisters compos'd of those of Diachylon, Melilot, and Mucilages, to which is added Oleum Lumbricorum, and Flower of Brimstone. To render the Remedy more effectual, Oil of Tobacco may be also mixt with it, and Gum Ammoniack dissolv'd in Vinegar.
Furthermore, these Topical or outward Medicines are to be accompany'd with others taken inwardly, which serve to prepare the Humours for convenient Evacuations; Such are Crab's-Eyes, the Decoctions of Sarsaparilla, the use of good Wine, and light Meats of easie Digestion.
Of Scirrhous Tumours, and their Remedies. edit
What are the Tumours that partake of the Nature of a Scirrhus?
They are the Polypus, Carcinoma, Sarcoma, Natta, and Cancer.
What is a Polypus?
It is an Excrescence of fungous Flesh arising in the Nostrils: But Hippocrates confounds the Carcinoma and Sarcoma with the Polypus, of which he says they are only a Species.
What is the Natta?
It is a Tumour or Excrescence of Flesh that appears in the Buttocks, Shoulders, Thighs, Face, and every where else, the various Figures of which cause it to be call'd by different Names. For one while it resembleth a Gooseberry, at another time a Mulberry, and at another time a Melon or Cherry. Sometimes also these Swellings are like Trees, Fishes, Birds, or other sorts of Animals, according to the ardent desire that Women with Child have had for things that they cou'd not obtain when they longed for 'em.
What are the Remedies proper for the Polypus, and other kinds of Excrescences of the like Nature?
The Polypus may be cur'd in the beginning, but it is to be fear'd lest it degenerate into an incurable Cancer, when it hath been neglected or ill dress'd.
Besides the general Remedies, which are letting Blood a little, and reiterated Purgations, with an exact Regulation of Diet, there are also particular Medicaments which dry up and insensibly consume the Excrescence; as a Decoction of Bistort, Plantain, and Pomegranate-Rinds in Claret-Wine, which is to be snuff'd up the Nose many times in a Day, and serves to soak the small Tents that are put up therein, as also often to cool the Part, adding a little Allum and Honey.
The Patient must sometimes likewise keep in his Mouth a Sage-Leaf, sometimes a piece of the Root of Pellitory of Spain; and at another time Tobacco or some other thing of this Nature, which causeth Salivation. If the Tumour continues too long, and doth not yield to the above-mention'd Remedies, it is necessary to proceed to a Manual Operation, which is very often perform'd with good Success.
As for the Natta's, it is most expedient not to meddle with 'em at all; nevertheless these Marks which Infants bring along with 'em into the World, are frequently defac'd by an Application of the After-Burdens, whilst they are as yet warm, as soon as their Mothers are deliver'd.
What is a Cancer?
It is a hard, painful, and ulcerous Tumour, produc'd by an adult Humour, the Malignity whereof can scarce be suppress'd by any Remedies.
How many sorts of Cancers are there?
There are two kinds, viz. The Primitive and the Degenerate; the Primitive Cancer is that which comes of it self, and appears at first about the bigness of a Pea or Bean, which nevertheless doth not cease to cause an inward Pain, continual, and pricking by intervals; during this time it is call'd an Occult Cancer; but when grown bigger, and open'd, it bears the Name of an Ulcerated Cancer; which is so much the less capable of being cur'd or asswag'd, as it makes it self more conspicuous by its dreadful Symptoms, or concomitant Circumstances.
The Degenerate Cancer is that which succeeds an obstinate and ill-dress'd Tumour or Impostume, and which becomes an Ulcerated Cancer, without assuming the Nature of a blind or occult one.
What Remedies are requisite to be apply'd to a blind Cancer?
In regard that it cannot be known in this Condition without difficulty, it is often neglected; nevertheless it is a Matter of great Moment to prevent its Consequences, more especially by a good Diet, and by general Remedies, which may gently rectifie the intemperature of the Bowels: Afterwards Baths may be prescrib'd, together with the use of Whey Asses-Milk, and Specificks in general, as Powders of Crab's Eyes, Vipers, Adders, and others. As for Topical Remedies, none are to be administer'd, except it be judg'd convenient to apply to the Tumour a Piece of Lead rubb'd with Quick-silver; all others serving only to make the Skin tender, and apt to break. The Patient may also take for his Drink Water of Scorzonera and Hart's-Horn, with the Flowers of Bugloss or Borage, and Liquorice: Or else Quick-silver-Water alone, boiling an Ounce of it in a Quart of Water every time, the Quick-silver always remaining at the bottom of the Vessel.
What are the Remedies for an ulcerated Cancer?
Besides the general ones, that are the same with those of the blind Cancer, there are also Topical, which may take place here. The Powders of Toads, Moles, Frogs, and Crabs calcin'd, cleanse the Ulcers perfectly well. A Decoction of Vipers and Crabs may serve to bath 'em, and some of it may be taken inwardly. Detersives made of Lime-Water, or Whey clarify'd, and boil'd with Chervil are very good; and (if you please) you may add Camphire or Saccharum Saturni.
If the Pains grow violent, recourse is to be had to Laudanum, one or two Grains whereof may be given in a little Conserve of Roses. When the Cancer is situated in the Glandules or Flesh, the Extirpation of it may also be undertaken with good Success.
As for the manner of handling Degenerate Cancers, respect must be always had to the kind of Tumour, from whence it deriv'd its Original.
CHAP. IV. edit
Of Bastard or Encysted Tumours. edit
What is an Encysted or Bastard Tumour or Impostume?
It is that which is made of a Setling of mixt and corrupt Humours, the Matter whereof is contain'd in certain proper Cystes or Membranous Bags.
What are the kinds of these Tumours?
They are the Steatoma, the Atheroma, the Meliceris, the Wen, the Bronchocele, and the Scrophula or King's-Evil.
How is the difference between these Tumours discern'd?
The Steatoma is known by its Matter resembling Suet; as that of the Atheroma resembleth Pap; and that of the Meliceris is like Honey: These three Tumours cannot be well distinguish'd on the outside, in regard that they do not change the natural Colour of the Skin, which equally retains in all three the print of the Fingers that press it. But the Bronchocele is discover'd by the Place and Part which it possesseth; that is to say, the Throat; as also by its somewhat hard consistence without the Alteration of the Skin. The Scrophulæ or King's-Evil Swellings are known by their unequal Hardness, and their situation in the Glandules, either in the Neck, Arm-pits or elsewhere, without alteration likewise of the Skin.
REMEDIES. edit
Want is the Method to be observ'd in curing these sorts of Tumours?
An Attempt is to be made to dissolve 'em, as in all the others; nevertheless the safest way is to bring 'em to Suppuration, and to extirpate the Cystes, which are apt to be fill'd again after the Dissipation of the Humour.
What are the Medicines proper to dissolve these Tumours?
They are all such as may be us'd for the Oedema and Scirrhus; but the Specificks or particular Remedies are these:
Take Rosemary, Sage, Wormwood, Elder, great Celandine, Camomile, Melilot, St. John's-Wort, and Tobacco; boil 'em in White-Wine with Soot and Mercurial Honey, adding, thereto Cummin-seeds beaten, and Oleum Lumbricorum, to make a Cataplasm, which is to be renew'd twice a Day. Afterward if the Tumour be not dispers'd, you may apply the following Plaister, which hath an admirable Effect.
Take an equal Portion of the Plaister of Diachylon, Devigo, and four times as much Mercury, and Emplastrum Divinum; let 'em be dissolv'd together; then intermix Saffron, and Oil of Tobacco, to make a Plaister with the whole Mass, which may be spread upon thin Leather, and apply'd to the Tumour, without taking it off only once every eighth Day, to cool it; so that it must be laid on again after having wash'd and bath'd the Part with warm Urine or Brine.
But it is to be always remember'd that external Remedies take effect only imperfectly, unless they are assisted by internal, such as in this case are reiterated Purgations, join'd with a regular Diet.
What are the Remedies proper to excite Suppuration?
To this purpose those may be us'd that serve in other kinds of Tumours: But as for the extirpation of the Cystis, it is done by dividing the Tumour into four Parts, by procuring Suppuration, and by consuming the Bag by little and little. The Bronchocele alone will not admit this Extirpation, by reason of the great Number of Nerves, Veins, and neighbouring Arteries amidst which the Tumour is settl'd. However Bronchotomy, or opening the Throat, may be perform'd; which is an Operation peculiar to this Tumour.
CHAP. V. edit
Of Critical, Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal Tumours and Impostumes. edit
What difference is there between Critical, Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal Tumours?
It consists in these particular circumstances, viz. that Critical Tumours or Impostumes are indifferently all such as are form'd at the End or Termination of Diseases, in whatsoever Place or Part they appear.
Malignant Impostumes or Tumours are those that are obstinate, and do not easily yield to the most efficacious Remedies.
Pestilential Impostumes or Tumours are those that are accompany'd with a Fever, Swooning, Head-ach, and Faintness: They usually arise in the time of a Plague or Pestilence, and are contagious.
Venereal Tumours or Impostumes are those that appear only at the bottom of the Groin, and are the product of an impure Coitus.
However, the Critical Impostume may be Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal; the Malignant Impostume may be neither Critical, nor Pestilential, nor Venereal: But the Pestilential and Venereal Tumours are always Malignant.
What are the ordinary kinds of Critical Tumours or Impostumes?
They are the Anthrax, the Boil, the Phlegmon, and the Parotides or Swellings in the Almonds of the Ears.
What are the kinds of Malignant Tumours or Impostumes?
They are the Cancer, the Scrophula or King's-Evil; and others of the like Nature.
What are the kinds of Pestilential Tumours or Impostumes?
They are Carbuncles that break out every where; a sort of Anthrax which appears under the Arm-pits, and Bubo's in the Groin.
What are the kinds of Venereal Tumours or Impostumes?
They are Botches or Bubo's and Cancers that arise in the Yard; as also Wens and Condyloma's in the Fundament.
What is the difference between a Pestilential and a Venereal Buboe?
They may be distinguish'd by their Situation, and respective Accidents; the Pestilential lying higher, and the Venereal lower: Besides, a Fever, Sickness at the Heart, and an universal Faintness or Weakness, are the ordinary concomitant Circumstances of the former; whereas the Venereal Buboe is always the consequence of an impure Coitus, and is attended with no other Symptoms than those of common Tumours, viz. Pain, Heat, Shootings or Prickings, &c.
As for the Remedies, they may be sought for among those that have been already prescrib'd for Tumours.
CHAP. VI. edit
Of the Scurvy. edit
This Disease is known by the Ulcers of the Mouth, which are very stinking; as also by excessive Salivation, great Pains in the Head, Dizziness, frequent Epilepsies, Apoplexies, and Palsies. The Face, being of a pale red, and dark Colour, is sometimes puff'd up or bloated, inflam'd, and beset with Pustules: The Teeth are loose and ake, the Gums are swell'd, itch, putrifie, exulcerate, and are eaten with the Canker; and the Jaw is almost unmoveable: The Members are bow'd, and cannot be extended: The Patients become stupid and drowsie, so that they fetch their Breath with difficulty, are obnoxious to Palpitations of the Heart and Coughs, and fall into Swoons: The Ulcers sometimes are so malignant, that their Cheeks are entirely eaten up, and their Teeth seen: They are also much inclin'd to Vomitting, Looseness, and Gripes; and their Entrails are swell'd: They have red and livid Pustules on their Belly and Privy-parts, which sometimes break out into Ulcers; their whole Body being dry'd, &c.
This Disease may be easily cur'd in the beginning; but when it is grown inveterate, and invades the Bowels, it becomes incurable; as well as when it is the Epidemical Disease of the Country, or the Persons afflicted with it, are old, or well advanc'd in Years.
In undertaking the Cure, it is requisite to begin with a good Diet, and to sweeten the Blood, let the Patient take the Broth of boil'd Fowl; eating Pullets and Eggs; in the Broth may also be put divers sorts of Antiscorbutick Herbs; viz. Cresses, Spinage, Parsly-Roots, Sparagus, Smallage, Scorzonera, Scurvy-Grass, &c. Let him eat nothing that is high season'd, nor acid or sharp; let him drink pure Claret, without any adulterate Mixture; let him use moderate Exercise and Rest; Lastly, let him keep his Mind sedate, and free from all manner of violent Passion.
The following Remedies taken inwardly are very good for the Scurvy, viz. the Tincture of Flints from ten Grains to thirty; Diaphoretick Antimony, from six Grains to thirty; sweet Sublimate, from six Grains to thirty; Mars Diaphoreteus, from ten Grains to twenty; Crocus Martis Aperitivus, from ten Grains to two Scruples; prepar'd Coral, from ten Grains to one Dram; Volatile Spirit of Sal Ammoniack, from six Drops to twenty; Water of Cresses, from fifteen Drops to one Dram; Spirit of Scurvy-grass, from ten Drops to one Dram; Tincture of Antimony, from four Drops to twenty; Oily Volatile Sal Ammoniack, from four Grains to fifteen; Spirit of Guyacum, from half a Dram to a Dram and a half; Vitrioliz'd Tartar, from ten Grains to thirty; the Volatile Salt of Tartar, Urine, Vipers, and Hart's-Horn, of each from six Grains to fifteen; the Spirit of Gum Ammoniack, from eight Drops to sixteen; White Mercury Precipitate, from four to ten Grains; Mercurial Panacæa, from six Grains to two Scruples. We shall shew the manner of compounding 'em in our Treatise of Venereal Diseases.
It is also expedient to give Emollient and Detersive Clysters to the Patient at Night going to bed, his Body being always kept open with convenient Diet-drinks: Afterward let him take gentle Sudorificks, such as are made of the Decoctions of Fumitory, wild Cicory, Dandelion, Hart's-Tongue, Scabious, the lesser House-Leek, Germander, Borage, Scorzonera-Root, and Polypody, with Flowers of Broom, Elder, and Marygold.
These are stronger for cold Constitutions, viz. Decoctions of Scurvy-Grass, Lepidium, Arse-smart, the lesser Celandine, Wormwood, little House-Leek, Trifolium Febrinum, Angelico, Juniper-Berries, &c.
Convenient Decoctions to wash the Mouth may be made with Sage, Rosemary, Hyssop, Oak-Leaves, Scurvy-Grass, Cresses, Tobacco, Roots of Bistort, Aristolochy or Birth-Wort, Tormentil, Flower-de-Luce, Balaustia or Pomegranate-Flowers, Red Roses, &c.
To corroborate the Gums, Gargarisms are made of Anti-Scorbutick Plants; as of Spirit of Scurvy-Grass two Drams, one Scruple of Spirit of Vitriol, one Scruple of common Salt, four Ounces of Rose-Water and Plantane-Water. But if the Gums are putrefy'd, they are to be rubb'd with Honey of Roses, and some Drops of Spirit of Salt.
To asswage the Pains of the Members, Bathings and Fomentations are to be us'd; and a Decoction of Saxifrage taken inwardly, with some Grains of Laudanum is good for that Purpose.
To allay the Gripes, Clysters may be given with Whey, Sugar, Yolks of Eggs, Syrrop of Poppies, and Oils of Earth-Worms, Scurvy-Grass, Camomile, &c.
Against the Scorbutick Dropsy, take the Essence of Trifolium Febrinum and Elicampane, from twenty four Drops to thirty, and continue the use thereof.
Milk taken inwardly hinders Vomitting; and a Broth or Gelly of Crabs sweetens the Blood. The Looseness may be stopt with the Essence of Wormwood, and Spirit of Mastick; as also the Fever with Febrifuges and Anti-scorbuticks.
The Spots may be fomented with Decoctions of Aromatick and Anti-Scorbutick Herbs and Nitre. For the Ulcers of the Legs, pulverize an equal quantity of Saccharum Saturni, Crocus Martis, Myrrh, and Mercurius Dulcis, and lay it upon the Bolsters that are to be apply'd to the Sores.
To mollifie the sharpness of Acid Humours, this is a good Remedy: Prepare half an Ounce of Spirit of Scurvy-Grass, two Drams of tartariz'd Spirit Ammoniack, a Dram of the Tincture of Worms. Take thrice a Day fifteen or twenty Drops of this Liquor, in a Decoction of the Tops of Firr.
Against the Tubercles, take two Handfuls of the Flowers of Camomile and Elder, three Drams of Briony-Root, and an Handful of White-Bread Crum; Boil the whole Composition in Milk, and make Cataplasms thereof.
To mitigate the Pains in the Head, take twenty or thirty five Drops of the Tincture of Amber, in Anti-scorbutick Spirits or Waters.
The difficulty of Respiration may be remov'd by a Medicinal Composition made of two Drams of an Anti-scorbutick Water, two Drams of the Essence of Elicampane, and half a Dram of the Spirit of Gum Ammoniack; take three or four Spoonfuls thereof several times in a Day.
To prevent the putrefaction of the Gums, take one Dram of the Tincture of Gum Lacca, three Drams of the Spirit of Scurvy-Grass, with fifteen or twenty Drops of Oil of Tartar made per Deliquium, and rub the Gums with this Composition many times in a Day. Brandy in which Camphire is infus'd, or Spirit of Wine, is likewise a most excellent Remedy; as also all Lotions or Washes made with the Waters or Decoctions of Anti-scorbutick Plants.
For Leanness, Goat's-Milk with the Spirit of Scurvy-Grass may be us'd, and other Waters drawn from Anti-scorbutick Plants. The Apozemes or Decoctions of Endive, Cicory, Sorrel, Becabunga, and Snail-Water, are in like manner very good for the same purpose.
Ointment of Styrax is frequently us'd in the Hospital call'd Hôtel-Dieu at Paris, and apply'd to Spots and callous Swellings that arise in the Legs.