The Book of Secrets

It quickly dissolves scrophulasSwelling of the lymph nodes, often associated with tuberculosis. if its juice is drunk with water. It also heals sarigos? Likely a corruption of a term for sores or respiratory obstructions. and ailments of the chest or pains if its juice is drunk. It also relieves toothaches; and if its juice is held in the mouth, it cures all ailments of the mouth. And if anyone carries it with them, it provides assistance and help. Furthermore, if anyone wishes to ask something of a king or a prince, it gives an abundance of eloquence—that is, if he has it with him, he will obtain what he desires. It is also effective for lithiasisThe formation of stony concretions (stones) in the body, such as kidney stones. and dysuriaPainful or difficult urination. when its juice is drunk.

¶ The sixth herb of Jupiter is called Acharonia, and by some Henbane original: "Jusquiamus". Its root, when placed upon buboesInflamed swellings of the lymph nodes, typical of the plague., disperses them and protects the area from phlegmonAn inflammation of soft tissue.. If anyone carries it before the ailment comes upon him, he shall never have a bubo. Its root also assists with podagraGout, specifically in the foot. when it is ground and placed upon the suffering area. And this it performs by the power of the [Zodiacal] signs that have feet, or those having an aspect over the feet. And if its juice is drunk with honeyed wateroriginal: "mellicrato", it assists with pains of the liver and all its ailments, since Jupiter governs the liver. Similarly, it assists those wishing to engage in much sexual intercourse. And it is useful for those wishing to be loved by women to carry it with them. For it makes those who carry it joyful and delightful.

¶ The seventh herb of Venus is called Peristereon; by some Hierobotane original: "Hyerobozā", that is, Pigeon-berry original: "herba columbaria" and Verbena. The root of this herb, when placed upon the neck, heals scrophulas and parotidsTumors or swellings of the parotid glands near the ear. and buboes of the neck and staphilionSwelling of the uvula; the text here links it to urinary issues or perhaps a specific throat inflammation....