Peri tōn periptōmatōn tēs prōtēs pepseōs disputatio

82. Truly, we have warned above that the excrements of the bowels become the proximate causes of two diseases, namely obstruction and the solution of continuity in dysentery, which the special therapeutikē therapeutics/healing art teaches how to remove.

83. As for the first, the cure varies according to the antecedent cause. For if the antecedent cause of the obstruction is an astringent diet, a contrary diet—softening and lubricating—must be instituted, such as saltbush, beet, spinach, or lightly cooked cabbage among vegetables; and among fruits, especially cherries and plums, into which leaves of senna can be boiled.

84. A more liberal drink is to be allowed. Since sleep itself also moistens, quiet is to be ordered rather than wakefulness and exercise.

85. However, after softening agents are applied in the first course, austere and astringent things can be added after the meal, such as pears or quinces; for thus easier bowel evacuations will follow.

86. If, however, a hot or dry intemperance has been the cause of hardened feces, cooling and moistening alteratives are suitable at the same time.

87. They are either taken by mouth or introduced through the anus. Syrup of violets, of roses, or of water lily, or cherries are taken [orally].

88. Clysters are introduced from a decoction of mallow, violet, or mercury, with the four greater cold seeds, in which violet oil, simple oil, or butter is dissolved. To these, Benedicta a purgative medicine is also added.

89. One must refrain from strongly purgative [medicines], because by drying the intestines vehemently, they render the bowels more constricted.

90. Regarding the cure of dysentery, the humor that makes dysentery by being mixed into the bowel excrements must be weighed.