Disputatio de phrenitide

LXIX.
The second type of remedy is Diversion, which can be done in many ways, among which bloodletting claims the first place for itself, although others have affirmed the contrary. The suitable time will be when necessity demands, unless something prohibitive is present. The quantity is to be determined according to the strength of the vital powers and the magnitude of the fullness. If there is a fullness of the whole body, the vein of the right elbow should be cut first; then the vein of the forehead is to be cut. If, however, there is not a fullness of the whole body but only of the head, first the cephalic vein, then that of the forehead is to be cut. If, however, something hinders the sectioning of the vein, blood ought to be drawn from the nostrils, either by leeches applied to the nostrils or by a lancet. If not in this way, the hemorrhoids are to be opened.

LXX.
Cupping vessels, affixed to the neck and shoulder blades, also divert. Likewise, strong and painful ligatures of the joints and friction of the limbs. Cholagogue medicines and clysters also accomplish the same. Medicines such as the Electuary of rose juice, dissolved prune juice, etc., golden pills, aggregative pills. Clysters, however, are usually prepared from a decoction of mallow, violets, and barley, adding cassia fistula, violet oil, red sugar, salt, etc.

LXXI.
The third type of remedy is accomplished by repellents, among which oxyrhodinum a mixture of vinegar and roses holds the first place. It should be applied to the anterior part of the brain with linen cloths soaked in it, or a sponge expressed over the coronal suture. Cloths soaked in it can also be placed around the neck, so that the paths through which the matter ascends are constricted and rendered inept for movement. It is nevertheless to be noted that such cloths be changed often and applied cold in act, yet having regard for the magnitude of the disease, the region, and the time of year.

LXXII.
Cooling astringents correct the hot intemperance of the head and humors by thickening and restricting the paths; such are foods altered and prepared with the juice of pomegranates, quinces, and unripe grapes; lemons and oranges accomplish the same. Cooling medicines also do this: syrup of roses, pomegranate syrup, water of nightshade, plantain, bugloss, etc.