The Book of Secrets

distillation original: "distillationem" and ysimon likely Erysimum, or hedge mustard. If it is applied as a plaster, it is well-suited for the ailments of that area. It also heals fungas literally 'fungi', here referring to soft growths, that is, fissures and condylomata original: "condilomata"; translated as hard growths which arise in the anus, as well as hemorrhoids. If its juice is drunk with honey in boiled water, it thins the humors that are in the lung. It also creates good breath, for it sustains the lung. It is also of great value in aphrodisia original: "affrodisia", that is, sexual intercourse, because its juice greatly increases the seed original: "sperma". When someone wishes to engage in intercourse, it increases their desire. And the greatest power of this herb is this: if anyone carries it upon them, they are very potent in intercourse. However, they should not hold anything else except this herb alone. If someone places it in a house, or a vineyard, or in the fields, they will have abundant returns. Furthermore, its root is valuable to all those who wish to plant vineyards or trees. And infants who carry it will be well-disciplined and lovers of learning, and they will be happy and joyful. It also assists when placed in purifications and repels all demons.

¶ Regarding the aforementioned herbs: beginning the collection of them from the twenty-third day of the moon until the thirtieth, lift them under the influence of Mercury referring to the astrological hour or day of Mercury/Wednesday through the whole hour of the days; and while uprooting them, make mention of the suffering—that is, the names of the thing, the suffering, or the purpose for which you are collecting them—and then take the herb. Nevertheless, place it upon wheat or barley, and use it for your work thereafter.

¶ Here ends the first book.

The second book of Albertus Magnus: and it is concerning the virtues The text cuts off here at "vir-", likely "virtutibus" (virtues/powers)