BOOK 8 ON THE POWERS [OF SIMPLE MEDICINES]

Chartier Edition XIII. [187. 188.]

Basel Edition II. (89.)

...shepherds heal wounds inflicted by shears on sheep during shearing by smearing them with this resin, just as they use liquid pitch. They also use it to treat sheep scabies and ticks. Furthermore, the berries of the cedar, for they call the fruit of the cedar cedrides original: "κεδρίδες" (kedrides), possess more moderate powers. They are even suitable to be eaten. However, if a person consumes too many of them, they cause headaches. They also produce a sensation of heat and a biting pain in the stomach.

17. ON GREAT CENTAURY

[188]

The root of the great centaury great centaury: Centaurea centaurium, a plant used since antiquity for its medicinal properties, distinct from the smaller common centaury displays contrary qualities in its taste, just as it shows contrary effects in its use. To the taste, it appears sharp and astringent at the same time, along with a very slight sweetness. In its actions, the sharpness demonstrates the effects of heat. It promotes the menstrual flow and draws out a dead fetus. It also destroys and expels a living fetus. On the other hand, its astringency is a result of a thick and earthy coldness. This allows it to knit wounds together and benefit those who cough up blood. A dose of two drachms drachm: a unit of weight in ancient medicine, approximately 3.4 grams is administered, specifically to those suffering from fever...