GALEN: ON THE POWERS OF SIMPLE MEDICINES

Chartier Edition, Vol. 13. [182. 183.]

Basel Edition, Vol. 2. (87.)

...acts most powerfully against certain conditions, because it combines intense heat with a substance made of fine particles. For this reason, its juice is naturally suited to kill both pinworms original: "ἀσκαρίδας" (askaridas) or "ascaridas" and roundworms original: "ἕλμινθας" (helminthas) or "lumbricos" whether it is injected or drunk. For the same reason, it also kills worms in the ears, or if such a condition should occur in a rotting ulcer in any other part of the body. In the same way, it destroys and expels the fetus if it is drunk or applied as a suppository.

It possesses a cutting power original: "τμητικὴ δύναμις" (tmētikē dynamis) or "incidendi vis"; the ability to break down thick or stubborn fluids in the body due to its heat, its fine particles, and its bitterness. It has a cleansing power original: "ῥυπτικὴ" (rhyptikē) or "abstergendi"; a detergent quality due to its bitterness alone. Therefore, it benefits those with asthma because of all the qualities mentioned. It is especially helpful for those suffering from jaundice original: "ἰκτεριώδεις" (ikteriōdeis) or "regio morbo"; literally the "royal disease," a common historical term for jaundice due to its bitterness. Like almost all other bitter substances, it acts by cleansing and clearing away the obstructions that occur in the liver. The mountain variety is more effective for all the purposes mentioned.

2. About Aromatic Reed

Aromatic reed original: "Κάλαμος ἀρωματικός" (Kalamos aromatikos) or "Calamus odoratus"; likely Sweet Flag or Acorus calamus possesses a slight astringency original: "στύψεως" (stypseōs) or "astrictionem"; a drying or puckering effect and very little sharpness. Its substance is for the most part earthy and airy. It is well balanced in the mixture of its heat and cold. How...