De epilepsia disputatio

LXIV.
From here we shall prepare the material, and if obstructions are present, we shall open the passages; and thus, according to the state of the vicious humor, we shall institute a purgation using milder medicines, to which we will always mix something that targets the affected part.

LXV.
And because the evil is stubborn, purgative drugs must be administered quite often, or every second, third, or fourth day, and sometimes even daily; their use must be continued for one, two, three, and sometimes even four months or more. For frequent medicine in every chronic disease is the hand of God, as the Greek author said concerning gout. Frictions, the frequent use of enemas, suppositories, scarification of the shins or shoulder blades, likewise the opening of hemorrhoids, and also errhines nasal medicines and other things of this kind all contribute to this; for all these things evacuate, draw back, and divert the humors.

LXVI.
Vomiting has its place in those who vomit easily, especially when the evil takes its origin from the stomach or nearby parts. Sweat, however, is provoked, especially if the material of this disease is outside the vessels in the constitution of the body.

LXVII.
But if we gain little from these things, we must take refuge in hot medicines that draw humors from deep within to the surface, and likewise to cauteries—whether potential or actual burning agents—which are applied to the subject parts from which such vapors ascend. Likewise, a seton (which the common herd of surgeons calls a seton a thread or cord passed through the skin to create a drainage track) is used, especially in primary epilepsy. For extreme diseases, extreme remedies are required.

LXIIX.
In the meantime, medicines must be administered that strengthen the brain, aid digestion, confirm the innate heat of the stomach and liver, consume the depraved humors,