The Complete Works of Galen, Vol. 12

It shares in a caustic power, just like mustard original: "νᾶπυ" (napy); a term for mustard, used here to describe the plant's stinging, heat-producing quality. Because of this, physicians use it to heat and treat sciatica, headaches, and any other condition that requires reddening of the skin original: "φοινίξεως" (phoinixeōs); rubefaction, or the medical practice of stimulating blood flow to the surface to relieve deep-seated pain, in the same way mustard is used. It is also mixed into medicines given to those suffering from asthma. This is because it has the power to forcefully cut through thick humors original: "τέμνειν τοὺς παχεῖς χυμοὺς" (temnein tous pacheis chymous); the process of thinning or breaking down viscous fluids like phlegm to make them easier to expel, just as mustard does. Indeed, it resembles mustard in all respects.

The dried herb possesses a power similar to its seed. However, while it is still moist and green, it lacks much of that power due to the presence of watery moisture. At that stage, its biting quality is so moderate that it can even be eaten with bread as a relish original: "ὄψῳ" (opsō); a term for a seasoning, side dish, or savory accompaniment to bread.

9. On Cardamom

Cardamom original: "Καρδάμωμον" (kardamōmon) itself is certainly of a quite warm power. However, it is not as strong as garden cress original: "κάρδαμον" (kardamon); Galen distinguishes between cardamom and the more pungent common cress, often called nasturtium in Latin. Instead, because it is more pleasant and aromatic than garden cress, it possesses a weaker warming power. For this reason, it is not capable of causing ulcers even when applied by itself as a plaster. It also has a certain bitterness. Because of this, it kills intestinal worms and, when mixed with vinegar, forcefully cleanses skin eruptions original: "ψώρας" (psōras); a general term for itchy skin diseases, including scabies.