GALEN ON THE COMPOSITION OF MEDICINES

BOOK 7

Edition of Chartier XIII. [525. 526.]

Edition of Basel II. (256.)

This treatment reaches the spine easily, as the power of the oil can penetrate through the skin to the underlying muscles. However, along the windpipe trachea original Greek: "tracheian arterian", the cartilages located behind the skin block the power of softening ointments from passing through to the underlying membrane.

Just as oil works, many other compound medicines provide the same benefit. Indeed, those medicines that were originally called fatigue-relievers acopa original: "acopa," from the Greek word for "without weariness" gradually saw their name extended to any medicines with a similar consistency, even those used for the purpose of intense warming.

Furthermore, a common form of relief for the vocal organs, in addition to other remedies, is the use of baths. It is clear that I am speaking of fresh water baths. Sea water baths, as well as those containing sulfur, alum, vitriol original Greek: "chalcanthes"; Latin: "atramentum sutorium", or bitumen, are unsuitable because they dry the tissues too strongly.

Those who exercise their voices professionally follow this practice when they have damaged their voices through overexertion. These professionals include lyre-singers citharoedi, public heralds, and actors who perform in tragedies and comedies. They use many baths and...