Chapter IV: Part 4

The _Anthrax_ is very near the same thing as the Carbuncle, only with this difference, that the latter always appears in the Glandulous Parts, and the _Anthrax_ every where else.

_What is a _Furunculus_?_

It is a kind of Boil, or benign Carbuncle, which somewhat resembles the Head of a Nail, and is on that Account call'd _Clou_ by the _French_, causing Pains, as if a Nail were driven into the Flesh.

_What is a _Phygeton_?_

The _Phygeton_ is a small, red, and inflam'd Exuberance, situated in the Miliary Glandules of the Skin, where it causeth a pricking Pain, without Suppuration.

_What is a _Phyma_?_

The _Phyma_ appears after the same manner as the _Phygeton_, and suppurates.

_What are the Remedies proper for all these sorts of phlegmonous Tumours and Impostumes?_

They are Cataplasms and Plaisters Anodyn, Emollient, Resolvent, and Suppurative, which are us'd proportionably as in the _Phlegmons_.

_What is a _Gangrene_, _Sphacelus_, or _Esthiomenus_?_

The _Gangrene_ and _Sphacelus_ signifie the same thing, nevertheless are commonly distinguish'd; the former being a Mortification begun, and the _Sphacelus_ an entire or perfect Mortification; call'd also _Necrosis_ and _Sideratio_. An _Esthiomenus_ is a Disposition to Mortification, discover'd by the softness of the Part; and a Gangrene is defin'd to be a Mortification of a Part, occasion'd by the {112} Interception of the Spirits, and the Privation of the Natural Heat.

_What are the causes of a Gangrene in general?_

Every thing that can hinder the Natural Heat from exerting it self in a Part; as strong Ligatures, astringent or resolvent Medicines, not conveniently us'd in great Inflammations; a violent Haemorrhage; or Old Age, whereby the Spirits are exhausted; the bitings of Mad Dogs; excessive Cold, _&c._

_By what Signs is the Gangrene known?_

It is discover'd by the livid Colour of the Skin, which departs from the Flesh, the softness, coldness, and insensibility of the Part; and sometimes by its dryness and blackness, from whence exhales a cadaverous Stench, with _Sanies_ issuing forth after Punctures or Scarifications made therein. Lastly, a Gangrene is perceiv'd by the cold Sweats, Swoonings, _Syncope's_, and _Delirium's_ that invade the Patient, and which are all the Fore-runners of approaching Death.

_Is a Gangrene only found in the Flesh, and soft Parts of the Body?_

It happens also in the Bones; and is then call'd _Caries_.

_How is this _Caries_ or Gangrene of the Bone discover'd, when it lies hid under the Flesh?_

It is known by the black Colour of the Neighbouring Flesh, the Stink of the _Sanies_ that comes forth, the intolerable Pains felt thereabouts, which are fix'd and continual before the Impostume and Ulcer appear; but when the Ulcer is made, a kind of roughness may be perceiv'd in the Bone. {113}

_REMEDIES._

_What are the Remedies proper for a Gangrene?_

They are those that take away the mortify'd and corrupt Parts, and recall the Natural Heat; both which Indications are exactly answer'd in the Extirpation of what is already corrupted, with the Incision-Knife; and the Restauration of the Natural Heat by the following Remedies.

Take an Ounce of good Vinegar, steeping therein a Dram of White Vitriol, with as much _Sal Ammoniack_: Let it be us'd in bathing the Part; and apply thereto Bolsters well soak'd in the same Liquor. This Remedy is convenient in the first Disposition toward a Gangrene: Or, if you please, you may make use of the Yellow Water, which is made with Corrosive Sublimate and Lime-Water; taking, for Example, half a Dram of Corrosive Sublimate to be infus'd in a Pint of Lime-Water.

But a Tincture of Myrrh and Aloes is more efficacious, wherein _Unguentum Aegyptiacum_ is steep'd; or else Lime-Water kept for that purpose, in which have been boil'd two Ounces of Sulphur or Brimstone, with two Drams of _Mercurius Dulcis_; adding four Ounces of Spirit of Wine, to make an excellent _Phegedaenick_ Water, with which the Part may be bathed, and the Bolsters soak'd.

If the Gangrene passeth to the Bone, the Ulcer must be immediately cleans'd with Brandy, and _Euphorbium_ afterward put into it, laying also some upon the Bolsters, and {114} abstaining from all sorts of Oils and Greases. But if these Remedies prove unprofitable, recourse is then to be had to the Incision-Knife, Fire, or Amputation; the manner of performing which several Operations, is explain'd hereafter.

_What are Kibes or Chilblains?_

They are painful Tumours, which are often accompany'd with Inflammation; they happen more especially in the nervous and outward Parts, as the Heel, and are so much the more sensibly felt, as the Air and Cold are more sharp and Vehement.

_What is to be done in order to cure these Kibes or Chilblains?_

The Heel or affected Part must be wash'd and dipt in Wine boil'd with Allum and Salt, whereof a Cataplasm may be afterward made, by adding Meal of Rye, Honey, and Brimstone. The Juice of a hot Turnep apply'd with _Unguentum Rosatum_, is also very good, or _Petroleum_ alone.

_What is a _Panaritium_?_

_Panaritium_ or _Paronychia_, is a Tumour which generally ariseth in the Extremity of the Fingers, at the Root of the Nails: It is red, and accompany'd with very great Pain, even so exquisite, that the whole Arm is sensible thereof, insomuch that a Fever sometimes ensues, and a Gangrene; the Humour being contain'd between the Bone and the _Periosteum_, or that little Membrane with which it is immediately invested.

_What Remedies are convenient for the curing of _Panaritium_?_ {115}

Anodyn Cataplasms are to be first apply'd, that is to say, such as serve to asswage excessive Pain, as that which is compos'd of Millk, Line-seeds beaten, large Figs, the Yolk of an Egg, Saffron, Honey and _Oleum Lumbricorum_, with the Crum of white Bread. Afterward you may endeavour to dissolve it, by applying Oil of Almonds, _Saccharum Saturni_, and Ear-Wax, or else Balsam of Sulphur. The Plaister of Mucilages, and that of Sulphur or Brimstone, dissolv'd in Wine, is also a most excellent Resolvent and Anodyn.

If it be requisite to bring this Tumour to Suppuration, white Lillies roasted under Embers may be added to the preceeding Cataplasm; or else a new Cataplasm may be made with Sorrel boil'd, fresh Butter, and a little Leaven.

_What is a Burn_?

A burn is an Impression of Fire made upon a Part, wherein remains a great deal of Heat, with Blisters full of serous Particles, or Scabs, accordingly as the Fire hath taken more or less effect.

_What are the Remedies proper for a Burn_?

A Burn is cur'd by the speedy Application of fresh Mud re-iterated many times successively; by that of peel'd Onions, _Unguentum Rosatum_, and _Populeon_, mixt with the Yolk of an Egg and unslack'd-Lime: Cray-Fishes or Crabs pounded alive in a Leaden-Mortar; and a great Number of other things.

If the Burn be in the Face, you may more especially take the Mucilages of the Seeds of Quinces and _Psyllium_, and Frog's-Sperm, of {116} each an equal quantity, adding to every four Ounces twenty Grains of _Saccharum Saturni_. This Composition may be spread on the Part with a Feather, and cover'd with fine Brown Paper. It is an admirable and approved Receipt.

If the Burn hath made an Escar or Crust, it may be remov'd with fresh Butter spread upon a Colewort or Cabbage Leaf, and apply'd hot. But in Case the Scab is too hard, and doth not fall off, it must be open'd, to give passage to the _Pus_ or corrupt Matter, the stay of which would occasion a deep Ulcer underneath. The same Method is to be observ'd in the Pustules or Blisters, two Days after they are rais'd, applying also the Ointment of quick Lime, Oil of Roses, and Yolks of Eggs.

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ARTICLE II.

_Of the _Erysipelas_ and its Dependances._

_What is an _Erysipelas_?_

An _Erysipelas_, commonly call'd _St. Anthony's Fire_, is a small Elevation produc'd by a Flux of Choler dispers'd and running between the Skin and the Flesh. It is known by its yellowish Colour, great Heat and Prickings.

_REMEDIES._

_What are the Remedies proper for an _Erysipelas_?_

An _Erysipelas_ that ariseth in the Head and Breast is not without danger, and the Cure of {117} it ought to be undertaken with great Care in the Application as well of internal as external Remedies: For it is requisite to take inwardly a Dose of the Diaphoretick Mineral, Crabs-Eyes, Egg-shels, Powder of Vipers, and other Medicines; as also Potions that have the like Virtues, such as the following. Take four Ounces of Elder-Flower-Water, adding thereto a Scruple of the volatile Salt of Vipers or Hart's-Horn with an Ounce of Syrrup of red Poppies.

Phlebotomy or Blood-letting hath no place here, unless there be a great Plethory, but frequent Clysters are not to be rejected, _viz._ such as are made of Whay, Chervil, Succory, and Violet-Plants, adding a Dram of Mineral Crystal dissolv'd with two Ounce of Honey of Violets.

As for outward Applications, Linnen-Rags dipt in the Spirit of Wine impregnated with Camphire and Saffron, are to be laid upon the Tumour, and renew'd as fast as they are dry'd. An equal quantity of Chalk and Myrrh beaten to Powder, may also be strew'd upon a Sheet of Cap-Paper over-spread with Honey, and apply'd to the Part.

If the Heat and Pain grow excessive, take half a Dram of _Saccharum Saturni_, twenty Grains of Camphire, as much _Opium_, with two Drams of red Myrrh, to be infus'd in a Gallon of White-Wine: Let this Liquor be kept to soak the Cloaths that are laid upon the _Erysipelas_, and often renew'd. But to dress the Face, a Canvass Cloth may be us'd, which hath been dipt in a Medicine prepar'd with a {118} Gallon of Whey, two Yolks of Eggs, and a Dram of Saffron.

Moreover amidst all these Remedies, it is necessary to oblige the Patient to keep to a good Diet, and to prescribe for his ordinary Drink a Diet-Drink made of Hart's-Horn, the Tops of the lesser Centory, Pippins cut in Slices with their Skins, and Liquorish; a little good Wine may be also allow'd, with the Advice of the Physician.

_Of _Erysipelatous_ Tumours or Impostumes, and their Remedies._

_What are the Tumours or Impostumes that partake of the Nature of an _Erysipelas_?_

They are the dry and moist _Herpes_, the former being that which is call'd the Tetter or Ring-Worm; and the other a kind of yellow-Bladders, Pustules, or Wheals, that cause itching, and raise small corroding Ulcers in the Skin: To these may be added divers sorts of Scabs and Itch.

The Remedies prescrib'd for the _Erysipelas_ may be us'd for both these kinds of _Herpes_; as also Lotions or Bathing-Liquors made of Lime-Water, and a Decoction of Wormwood and _Sal Ammoniack_, allowing half a Dram to four Ounces of Liquor. Or else take half a Dram of _Sal Saturni_, and put it into a Glass of the Decoction of Fumitory or Chervil. You may also make use of the Oil of Tartar _per deliquium_, to make a Liniment either alone, or mingl'd with the above-mention'd Decoctions.

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ARTICLE III.

_Of the _Oedema_._

_What is the _Oedema_?_

It is a white soft Tumour, with very little sense of Pain, which ariseth from the Settling of a pituitous Humour.

_What are the Remedies proper for an _Oedema_?_

They are Fomentations, Cataplasms, Liniments, and Plaisters.

The Fomentations are made with Bundles of Wall-Wort or Dwarf-Elder, thrown into a hot Oven after the Bread is bak'd, and sprinkled with Wine: Afterward being taken out smoaking, they are unty'd, open'd, and wrapt about the Part, putting a warm Linnen Cloth over 'em. This Operation is to be re-iterated; and by this means the Humour is dissolv'd thro' Transpiration by Sweat.

The Cataplasms are compos'd of Camomile, Melilot, St. _John_'s-Wort, Sage, Wall-Wort, Pellitory of the Wall, Roots of Briony and Onions, all boil'd together in White Wine with Honey, adding, if you please, a few Cummin or Fennel Seeds beaten. Cataplasms are also made of Horse-Dung and the Seeds of Cummin beaten, which are boil'd in strong Vinegar, and mixt with Barly-Meal to the Consistence of Pap.

The Plaisters are prepar'd with an Ounce of _Diapalma_, half on Ounce of _Martiatum_, a Pint of Oil of Lillies, half an Ounce of {120} Cummin-Seeds powder'd, half a Dram of _Sal Ammoniack_, and an Ounce of yellow Wax to make a Consistence.

If any hardness remains, the Plaister of Mucilages may be apply'd, or that which is made of the Gums _Bdellium_, _Ammoniack_, and _Galbanum_, dissolv'd in Vinegar. But Care must be taken not to omit the Purgatives of Jalap to the quantity of a Dram in a Glass of White-Wine; or of half an Ounce of Lozenges of _Diacarthamum_, which are effectual in drawing out the bottom of pituitous and serous Humours that nourish the _Oedema's_.

_Of _Oedomatous_ Tumours and Impostumes._

_What are the kinds of Tumours that partake of the Nature of an _Oedema_?_

They are the _Phlyctaena_, the _Emphysema_, the _Batrachos_ or _Ranunculus_, the Wen, the _Talpa_, the _Bronchocele_, the _Ganglion_, the _Fungus_, the Scurf, the _Scrophula_ or King's-Evil, and all sorts of Dropsies both general and particular.

_What are _Phlyctaena's_?_

They are Pustules or Blisters fill'd with a white and somewhat yellowish Humour.

_What is an _Emphysema_?_

It is a kind of flatuous Tumour, wherein Wind is contain'd, with a little slimy Phlegm.

_What is a _Batrachos_ or _Ranunculus_?_

It is a Blister fill'd with slimy Water, that ariseth under the Tongue near the String, and in _French_ is call'd _Grenouillette_, or _the little Frog_; which is the same with its _Greek_ and _Latin_ Names. {121}

_What is a Wen?_

It is a Tumour consisting of thick plaistry Phlegm, which is reckon'd among the _Encysted_.

_What is a _Talpa_?_

It is a soft and very broad Tumour, which usually appears in the Head and Face, containing a white, thick and pituitous Matter.

_What is a _Bronchocele_?_

It is a bunch'd Tumour which ariseth in the Throat, and causeth it to swell extremely; being compos'd of thick Phlegm mix'd with a little Blood, and ranked among the _Encysted_ Tumours.

_What is a _Ganglion_?_

It is a very hard Tumour, void of Pain and wavering, produc'd by thick Phlegm: But it is always found upon some Nerve or Tendon.

_What is a _Fungus_?_

It is a spungy Tumour that grows upon Tendons bruis'd or weaken'd by some Hurt.

_What is the Scurf?_

It is a whitish and scaly Tumour rais'd in the Skin of the Head by a viscous and mixt Phlegm, having its Root in the bottom of the Skin.

_What is the _Scrophula_ or King's-Evil?_

_Scrophulae_ or _Strumae_, commonly call'd _the King's-Evil_, are Tumours that generally shew themselves in the Glandules of the Neck, and in all those Parts where there are any. They consist of a viscous, serous, and malignant Phlegm, The Source or Root whereof is suppos'd to be in the Glandules of the Mesentery. They are also of the number of the _Encysted_ Tumours. {122}

_What is the Dropsie?_

It is a soft Tumour occasion'd by the setling of abundance of serous Matter in the Parts where it appears.

_How many sorts of Dropsies are there?_

There are three general _Species_, _viz._ the _Ascites_, _Tympanites_, and _Leucophlegmatia_.

_What is an Ascites?_

It is a kind of Dropsy that forms the Tumour or Swelling of the _Abdomen_ or lower Belly, by a Mass of Water.

_What is a _Tympanites_?_

It is a kind of Dropsy, which in like manner causeth a Tumour or Swelling in the lower Belly, with this difference, that a great deal of Wind is mixt with the Water, which renders the Tumour transparent, and sounding, as it were a Drum; whence this Disease hath taken its Name.

_What is the Dropsy call'd _Leucophlegmatia_?_

It is a Tumour, or, to speak more properly; a general Swelling or Bloating of all the other Parts of the Body, as well as of the lower Belly. It is produc'd by a viscous and mucilaginous sort of Phlegm; whence it happens that the Print of the Fingers remains in those places that have been press'd.

_What are the particular kinds of Dropsies?_

They are those that are incident to different Parts, of which they bear the Names; as the _Hydrocephalus_, which is the Dropsy of the Head; the _Exomphalus_, of the Navel, and the _Hydrocele_ of the _Scrotum_. There is also a Dropsy of the Breast, and that of the _Matrix_.

{123} _What are the Remedies proper for all these sorts of Tumours or Dropsies?_

They are in general all those that are agreeable to the _Oedema_, which are variously us'd, as Liniments, Fomentations, Cataplasms, and Plaisters: Internal Medicines ought also to be much consider'd, as Diaphoreticks, Sudorificks, and Purgatives, when they are assisted by a regular Diet.

A Decoction of the Roots of Briony with Cinnamon and Liquorish, provokes Urine very much; as well as a Decoction of Turneps and Carrets, and an Infusion of Sage in White-Wine.

* * * * *

ARTICLE IV.

_Of a _Scirrhus_, and its peculiar Remedies._

_What is a _Scirrhus_?_

It is a hard unmoveable Tumour, almost altogether void of Pain, and of a livid dark Colour; which is form'd of a Melancholick Humour, frequently succeeding _Phlegmons_ and _Oedema's_ that have not been well dress'd with convenient Remedies.

_How is a _Scirrhus_ cur'd?_

By mollifying or dissolving it, and seldom by bringing it to Suppuration.

It may be mollify'd by the application of a Cataplasm or Pultis, compos'd of the Leaves of Violet-Plants, Mallows, Beets, Elder, Rue, and Wormwood, with Camomile-Flowers, {124} Horse-Dung, Cow-Dung, and White Lillies. The whole Mass is to be boil'd together in Wine, afterward adding Honey and Hogs-Lard, to make a Cataplasm thereof with the Crum of White Bread.

It is dissolv'd with Plaisters compos'd of those of _Diachylon_, Melilot, and Mucilages, to which is added _Oleum Lumbricorum_, and Flower of Brimstone. To render the Remedy more effectual, Oil of Tobacco may be also mixt with it, and Gum _Ammoniack_ dissolv'd in Vinegar.

Furthermore, these Topical or outward Medicines are to be accompany'd with others taken inwardly, which serve to prepare the Humours for convenient Evacuations; Such are Crab's-Eyes, the Decoctions of _Sarsaparilla_, the use of good Wine, and light Meats of easie Digestion.

_Of _Scirrhous_ Tumours, and their Remedies._

_What are the Tumours that partake of the Nature of a _Scirrhus_?_

They are the _Polypus_, _Carcinoma_, _Sarcoma_, _Natta_, and _Cancer_.

_What is a _Polypus_?_

It is an Excrescence of fungous Flesh arising in the Nostrils: But _Hippocrates_ confounds the _Carcinoma_ and _Sarcoma_ with the _Polypus_, of which he says they are only a _Species_.

_What is the _Natta_?_

It is a Tumour or Excrescence of Flesh that appears in the Buttocks, Shoulders, Thighs, Face, and every where else, the various Figures {125} of which cause it to be call'd by different Names. For one while it resembleth a Gooseberry, at another time a Mulberry, and at another time a Melon or Cherry. Sometimes also these Swellings are like Trees, Fishes, Birds, or other sorts of Animals, according to the ardent desire that Women with Child have had for things that they cou'd not obtain when they longed for 'em.

_What are the Remedies proper for the _Polypus_, and other kinds of Excrescences of the like Nature?_

The _Polypus_ may be cur'd in the beginning, but it is to be fear'd lest it degenerate into an incurable Cancer, when it hath been neglected or ill dress'd.

Besides the general Remedies, which are letting Blood a little, and reiterated Purgations, with an exact Regulation of Diet, there are also particular Medicaments which dry up and insensibly consume the Excrescence; as a Decoction of Bistort, Plantain, and Pomegranate-Rinds in Claret-Wine, which is to be snuff'd up the Nose many times in a Day, and serves to soak the small Tents that are put up therein, as also often to cool the Part, adding a little Allum and Honey.

The Patient must sometimes likewise keep in his Mouth a Sage-Leaf, sometimes a piece of the Root of Pellitory of _Spain_; and at another time Tobacco or some other thing of this Nature, which causeth Salivation. If the Tumour continues too long, and doth not yield to the above-mention'd Remedies, it is necessary to proceed to a Manual Operation, {126} which is very often perform'd with good Success.

As for the _Natta's_, it is most expedient not to meddle with 'em at all; nevertheless these Marks which Infants bring along with 'em into the World, are frequently defac'd by an Application of the After-Burdens, whilst they are as yet warm, as soon as their Mothers are deliver'd.

_What is a Cancer?_

It is a hard, painful, and ulcerous Tumour, produc'd by an adult Humour, the Malignity whereof can scarce be suppress'd by any Remedies.

_How many sorts of Cancers are there?_

There are two kinds, _viz._ The Primitive and the Degenerate; the Primitive Cancer is that which comes of it self, and appears at first about the bigness of a Pea or Bean, which nevertheless doth not cease to cause an inward Pain, continual, and pricking by intervals; during this time it is call'd an Occult Cancer; but when grown bigger, and open'd, it bears the Name of an Ulcerated Cancer; which is so much the less capable of being cur'd or asswag'd, as it makes it self more conspicuous by its dreadful Symptoms, or concomitant Circumstances.

The Degenerate Cancer is that which succeeds an obstinate and ill-dress'd Tumour or Impostume, and which becomes an Ulcerated Cancer, without assuming the Nature of a blind or occult one.

_What Remedies are requisite to be apply'd to a blind Cancer?_ {127}

In regard that it cannot be known in this Condition without difficulty, it is often neglected; nevertheless it is a Matter of great Moment to prevent its Consequences, more especially by a good Diet, and by general Remedies, which may gently rectifie the intemperature of the Bowels: Afterwards Baths may be prescrib'd, together with the use of Whey Asses-Milk, and Specificks in general, as Powders of Crab's Eyes, Vipers, Adders, and others. As for Topical Remedies, none are to be administer'd, except it be judg'd convenient to apply to the Tumour a Piece of Lead rubb'd with Quick-silver; all others serving only to make the Skin tender, and apt to break. The Patient may also take for his Drink Water of _Scorzonera_ and Hart's-Horn, with the Flowers of Bugloss or Borage, and Liquorice: Or else Quick-silver-Water alone, boiling an Ounce of it in a Quart of Water every time, the Quick-silver always remaining at the bottom of the Vessel.

_What are the Remedies for an ulcerated Cancer?_

Besides the general ones, that are the same with those of the blind Cancer, there are also Topical, which may take place here. The Powders of Toads, Moles, Frogs, and Crabs calcin'd, cleanse the Ulcers perfectly well. A Decoction of Vipers and Crabs may serve to bath 'em, and some of it may be taken inwardly. Detersives made of Lime-Water, or Whey clarify'd, and boil'd with Chervil are very good; and (if you please) you may add Camphire or _Saccharum Saturni_. {128}

If the Pains grow violent, recourse is to be had to _Laudanum_, one or two Grains whereof may be given in a little Conserve of Roses. When the Cancer is situated in the Glandules or Flesh, the Extirpation of it may also be undertaken with good Success.

As for the manner of handling Degenerate Cancers, respect must be always had to the kind of Tumour, from whence it deriv'd its Original.

* * * * *

CHAP. IV.

_Of Bastard or _Encysted_ Tumours._

_What is an _Encysted_ or Bastard Tumour or Impostume?_

It is that which is made of a Setling of mixt and corrupt Humours, the Matter whereof is contain'd in certain proper _Cystes_ or Membranous Bags.

_What are the kinds of these Tumours?_

They are the _Steatoma_, the _Atheroma_, the _Meliceris_, the Wen, the _Bronchocele_, and the _Scrophula_ or King's-Evil.

_How is the difference between these Tumours discern'd?_

The _Steatoma_ is known by its Matter resembling Suet; as that of the _Atheroma_ resembleth Pap; and that of the _Meliceris_ is like Honey: These three Tumours cannot be well distinguish'd on the outside, in regard that they do not change the natural Colour of the Skin, which {129} equally retains in all three the print of the Fingers that press it. But the _Bronchocele_ is discover'd by the Place and Part which it possesseth; that is to say, the Throat; as also by its somewhat hard consistence without the Alteration of the Skin. The _Scrophulae_ or King's-Evil Swellings are known by their unequal Hardness, and their situation in the Glandules, either in the Neck, Arm-pits or elsewhere, without alteration likewise of the Skin.

_REMEDIES._

_Want is the Method to be observ'd in curing these sorts of Tumours?_

An Attempt is to be made to dissolve 'em, as in all the others; nevertheless the safest way is to bring 'em to Suppuration, and to extirpate the _Cystes_, which are apt to be fill'd again after the Dissipation of the Humour.

_What are the Medicines proper to dissolve these Tumours?_

They are all such as may be us'd for the _Oedema_ and _Scirrhus_; but the Specificks or particular Remedies are these:

Take Rosemary, Sage, Wormwood, Elder, great Celandine, Camomile, Melilot, St. _John_'s-Wort, and Tobacco; boil 'em in White-Wine with Soot and Mercurial Honey, adding, thereto Cummin-seeds beaten, and _Oleum Lumbricorum_, to make a Cataplasm, which is to be renew'd twice a Day. Afterward if the Tumour be not dispers'd, you may apply the following Plaister, which hath an admirable Effect. {130}

Take an equal Portion of the Plaister of _Diachylon_, _Devigo_, and four times as much _Mercury_, and _Emplastrum Divinum_; let 'em be dissolv'd together; then intermix Saffron, and Oil of Tobacco, to make a Plaister with the whole Mass, which may be spread upon thin Leather, and apply'd to the Tumour, without taking it off only once every eighth Day, to cool it; so that it must be laid on again after having wash'd and bath'd the Part with warm Urine or Brine.

But it is to be always remember'd that external Remedies take effect only imperfectly, unless they are assisted by internal, such as in this case are reiterated Purgations, join'd with a regular Diet.

_What are the Remedies proper to excite Suppuration?_

To this purpose those may be us'd that serve in other kinds of Tumours: But as for the extirpation of the _Cystis_, it is done by dividing the Tumour into four Parts, by procuring Suppuration, and by consuming the Bag by little and little. The _Bronchocele_ alone will not admit this Extirpation, by reason of the great Number of Nerves, Veins, and neighbouring Arteries amidst which the Tumour is settl'd. However _Bronchotomy_, or opening the Throat, may be perform'd; which is an Operation peculiar to this Tumour.

* * * * *

{131}

CHAP. V.

_Of Critical, Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal Tumours and Impostumes._

_What difference is there between Critical, Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal Tumours?_

It consists in these particular circumstances, _viz._ that Critical Tumours or Impostumes are indifferently all such as are form'd at the End or Termination of Diseases, in whatsoever Place or Part they appear.

Malignant Impostumes or Tumours are those that are obstinate, and do not easily yield to the most efficacious Remedies.

Pestilential Impostumes or Tumours are those that are accompany'd with a Fever, Swooning, Head-ach, and Faintness: They usually arise in the time of a Plague or Pestilence, and are contagious.

Venereal Tumours or Impostumes are those that appear only at the bottom of the Groin, and are the product of an impure _Coitus_.

However, the Critical Impostume may be Malignant, Pestilential, and Venereal; the Malignant Impostume may be neither Critical, nor Pestilential, nor Venereal: But the Pestilential and Venereal Tumours are always Malignant. {132}

_What are the ordinary kinds of Critical Tumours or Impostumes?_

They are the _Anthrax_, the Boil, the _Phlegmon_, and the _Parotides_ or Swellings in the Almonds of the Ears.

_What are the kinds of Malignant Tumours or Impostumes?_

They are the _Cancer_, the _Scrophula_ or King's-Evil; and others of the like Nature.

_What are the kinds of Pestilential Tumours or Impostumes?_

They are Carbuncles that break out every where; a sort of _Anthrax_ which appears under the Arm-pits, and Bubo's in the Groin.

_What are the kinds of Venereal Tumours or Impostumes?_

They are Botches or Bubo's and Cancers that arise in the Yard; as also Wens and _Condyloma's_ in the Fundament.

_What is the difference between a Pestilential and a Venereal Buboe?_

They may be distinguish'd by their Situation, and respective Accidents; the Pestilential lying higher, and the Venereal lower: Besides, a Fever, Sickness at the Heart, and an universal Faintness or Weakness, are the ordinary concomitant Circumstances of the former; whereas the Venereal Buboe is always the consequence of an impure _Coitus_, and is attended with no other Symptoms than those of common Tumours, _viz._ Pain, Heat, Shootings or Prickings, &c.

As for the Remedies, they may be sought for among those that have been already prescrib'd for Tumours.

* * * * *

{133}

CHAP. VI.

_Of the Scurvy._

This Disease is known by the Ulcers of the Mouth, which are very stinking; as also by excessive Salivation, great Pains in the Head, Dizziness, frequent Epilepsies, Apoplexies, and Palsies. The Face, being of a pale red, and dark Colour, is sometimes puff'd up or bloated, inflam'd, and beset with Pustules: The Teeth are loose and ake, the Gums are swell'd, itch, putrifie, exulcerate, and are eaten with the Canker; and the Jaw is almost unmoveable: The Members are bow'd, and cannot be extended: The Patients become stupid and drowsie, so that they fetch their Breath with difficulty, are obnoxious to Palpitations of the Heart and Coughs, and fall into Swoons: The Ulcers sometimes are so malignant, that their Cheeks are entirely eaten up, and their Teeth seen: They are also much inclin'd to Vomitting, Looseness, and Gripes; and their Entrails are swell'd: They have red and livid Pustules on their Belly and Privy-parts, which sometimes break out into Ulcers; their whole Body being dry'd, _&c._

This Disease may be easily cur'd in the beginning; but when it is grown inveterate, and invades the Bowels, it becomes incurable; as well as when it is the Epidemical Disease of {134} the Country, or the Persons afflicted with it, are old, or well advanc'd in Years.

In undertaking the Cure, it is requisite to begin with a good Diet, and to sweeten the Blood, let the Patient take the Broth of boil'd Fowl; eating Pullets and Eggs; in the Broth may also be put divers sorts of Antiscorbutick Herbs; _viz._ Cresses, Spinage, Parsly-Roots, Sparagus, Smallage, _Scorzonera_, Scurvy-Grass, _&c._ Let him eat nothing that is high season'd, nor acid or sharp; let him drink pure Claret, without any adulterate Mixture; let him use moderate Exercise and Rest; Lastly, let him keep his Mind sedate, and free from all manner of violent Passion.

The following Remedies taken inwardly are very good for the Scurvy, _viz._ the Tincture of Flints from ten Grains to thirty; Diaphoretick Antimony, from six Grains to thirty; sweet Sublimate, from six Grains to thirty; _Mars Diaphoreteus_, from ten Grains to twenty; _Crocus Martis Aperitivus_, from ten Grains to two Scruples; prepar'd Coral, from ten Grains to one Dram; Volatile Spirit of _Sal Ammoniack_, from six Drops to twenty; Water of Cresses, from fifteen Drops to one Dram; Spirit of Scurvy-grass, from ten Drops to one Dram; Tincture of Antimony, from four Drops to twenty; Oily Volatile _Sal Ammoniack_, from four Grains to fifteen; Spirit of _Guyacum_, from half a Dram to a Dram and a half; Vitrioliz'd _Tartar_, from ten Grains to thirty; the Volatile Salt of _Tartar_, Urine, Vipers, and Hart's-Horn, of each from six Grains to fifteen; the Spirit of Gum _Ammoniack_, from eight Drops to sixteen; White {135} _Mercury_ Precipitate, from four to ten Grains; _Mercurial Panacaea_, from six Grains to two Scruples. We shall shew the manner of compounding 'em in our Treatise of Venereal Diseases.

It is also expedient to give Emollient and Detersive Clysters to the Patient at Night going to bed, his Body being always kept open with convenient Diet-drinks: Afterward let him take gentle Sudorificks, such as are made of the Decoctions of Fumitory, wild Cicory, Dandelion, Hart's-Tongue, Scabious, the lesser House-Leek, Germander, Borage, _Scorzonera_-Root, and Polypody, with Flowers of Broom, Elder, and Marygold.

These are stronger for cold Constitutions, _viz._ Decoctions of Scurvy-Grass, _Lepidium_, Arse-smart, the lesser Celandine, Wormwood, little House-Leek, _Trifolium Febrinum_, Angelico, Juniper-Berries, _&c._

Convenient Decoctions to wash the Mouth may be made with Sage, Rosemary, Hyssop, Oak-Leaves, Scurvy-Grass, Cresses, Tobacco, Roots of Bistort, _Aristolochy_ or Birth-Wort, Tormentil, Flower-de-Luce, _Balaustia_ or Pomegranate-Flowers, Red Roses, _&c._

To corroborate the Gums, Gargarisms are made of Anti-Scorbutick Plants; as of Spirit of Scurvy-Grass two Drams, one Scruple of Spirit of Vitriol, one Scruple of common Salt, four Ounces of Rose-Water and Plantane-Water. But if the Gums are putrefy'd, they are to be rubb'd with Honey of Roses, and some Drops of Spirit of Salt.

To asswage the Pains of the Members, Bathings and Fomentations are to be us'd; and a {136} Decoction of Saxifrage taken inwardly, with some Grains of _Laudanum_ is good for that Purpose.

To allay the Gripes, Clysters may be given with Whey, Sugar, Yolks of Eggs, Syrrop of Poppies, and Oils of Earth-Worms, Scurvy-Grass, Camomile, _&c._

Against the Scorbutick Dropsy, take the Essence of _Trifolium Febrinum_ and Elicampane, from twenty four Drops to thirty, and continue the use thereof.

Milk taken inwardly hinders Vomitting; and a Broth or Gelly of Crabs sweetens the Blood. The Looseness may be stopt with the Essence of Wormwood, and Spirit of _Mastick_; as also the Fever with Febrifuges and Anti-scorbuticks.

The Spots may be fomented with Decoctions of Aromatick and Anti-Scorbutick Herbs and Nitre. For the Ulcers of the Legs, pulverize an equal quantity of _Saccharum Saturni_, _Crocus Martis_, Myrrh, and _Mercurius Dulcis_, and lay it upon the Bolsters that are to be apply'd to the Sores.

To mollifie the sharpness of Acid Humours, this is a good Remedy: Prepare half an Ounce of Spirit of Scurvy-Grass, two Drams of tartariz'd Spirit _Ammoniack_, a Dram of the Tincture of Worms. Take thrice a Day fifteen or twenty Drops of this Liquor, in a Decoction of the Tops of Firr.

Against the Tubercles, take two Handfuls of the Flowers of Camomile and Elder, three Drams of Briony-Root, and an Handful of White-Bread Crum; Boil the whole Composition in Milk, and make Cataplasms thereof. {137}

To mitigate the Pains in the Head, take twenty or thirty five Drops of the Tincture of Amber, in Anti-scorbutick Spirits or Waters.

The difficulty of Respiration may be remov'd by a Medicinal Composition made of two Drams of an Anti-scorbutick Water, two Drams of the Essence of Elicampane, and half a Dram of the Spirit of Gum _Ammoniack_; take three or four Spoonfuls thereof several times in a Day.

To prevent the putrefaction of the Gums, take one Dram of the Tincture of Gum _Lacca_, three Drams of the Spirit of Scurvy-Grass, with fifteen or twenty Drops of Oil of Tartar made _per Deliquium_, and rub the Gums with this Composition many times in a Day. Brandy in which Camphire is infus'd, or Spirit of Wine, is likewise a most excellent Remedy; as also all Lotions or Washes made with the Waters or Decoctions of Anti-scorbutick Plants.

For Leanness, Goat's-Milk with the Spirit of Scurvy-Grass may be us'd, and other Waters drawn from Anti-scorbutick Plants. The Apozemes or Decoctions of Endive, Cicory, Sorrel, _Becabunga_, and Snail-Water, are in like manner very good for the same purpose.

Ointment of _Styrax_ is frequently us'd in the Hospital call'd _Hotel-Dieu_ at _Paris_, and apply'd to Spots and callous Swellings that arise in the Legs.

* * * * *

{138}

A

TREATISE

OF

_Wounds, Ulcers, and Sutures_.

* * * * *

CHAP. I.

_Of Sutures._

Sutures or Stitches are made only in recent, and as yet bleeding Wounds, when they cannot be re-united by Bandage, as are the transverse; provided there be no Contusion, nor loss of Substance, nor great Haemorrhages, as also that the Wounds were not made by the biting of venomous Beasts, that there be no violent Inflammations, and that the Bones are not laid open; because generally 'tis necessary to cause 'em to be exfoliated; neither is this Operation to be perform'd in the Breast, by reason of its Motion.

The Instruments proper for the making of Stitches, are streight and crooked Needles, {139} with waxed Thread; and these Sutures are of four sorts, _viz._ first the _Intermittent Stitch_ for transverse Wounds; the second for the Hare-Lip; the third, commonly call'd the _Dry Stitch_, for superficial Wounds; and the fourth, term'd the _Glover's Stitch_.

The Intermittent Stitch is that which is made at certain separated Points, according to the following manner: After having taken away all extraneous Bodies out of the Wound, let a Servant draw together its Sides or Lips; and let a Needle with waxed Thread be pass'd thro' the middle from the outside to the inside, several Points being made proportionably to its length. It is requisite to pierce a good way beyond the Edge of the Wound, and to penetrate to the bottom, lest any Blood shou'd remain in the Space, that might hinder the reuniting.

If the Wound hath Corners, the Surgeon begins to sow there; and before the Knot is made, causeth the Lips of the Wound to be drawn exactly close one to another: The Knots must be begun with that in the middle, and a single one is first made on the side opposite to the running of the Matter; laying upon this Knot (if it be thought convenient) a small Bolster of waxed Linnen, on which is tied a Slip-Knot, to the end that it may be untied if any bad Accident should happen. If a Plaister be apply'd to the Wound after the Stitching, a small Bolster is to be laid over the Knots, to prevent their sticking to the Plaister. In case any Inflammation happens in the Wound, the Knots may be loosen'd and ty'd again when the Symptoms cease: But {140} if the Inflammation continue, the Threads are to be cut by passing a Probe underneath: When the Wound is clos'd, the Threads are cut in like manner with a Probe; and in drawing 'em out, a Finger must be laid near the Knot, lest the Wound should open again.

To make the second sort of Stitch for the Hare-Lip, a small streight Needle is pass'd into the sides of the Wound, and the Thread is twisted round the Needle, by crossing it above at every Stitch.

To form the _Dry Stitch_ in very superficial Wounds, a piece of new Linnen-Cloth is to be taken, wherein are made Digitations, or many Corners; the Selvedge or Hem ought to be on the side of these Corners or Digitations; and a small Thread-Lace is ty'd to every one of 'em. Afterward this Cloth is dipt in strong Glue, and apply'd about a Finger's breadth from the Edges of the Wound; so that a piece thereof being stuck on each side, the Laces may be ty'd together, to cause the Lips of the Wound to meet.

To make the _Glover's Stitch_, the Operator having drawn together the Lips of the Wound, holds 'em between two Fingers, passeth a Needle underneath 'em, and soweth 'em upward all along, after the manner of _Glovers_.

* * * * *

{141}

CHAP II.

_Of Wounds in general._

_What is a Wound?_

A Wound is a recent, violent, and bloody Rupture or Solution of the Natural Union of the soft Parts, made by a pricking, cutting, or bruising Instrument.

_What ought to be observ'd before all things in the curing of Wounds?_

It is requisite to take notice of their differences, as well as of the Instruments with which they were made; to the end that Consequences may be drawn from thence for the Application of proper Remedies.

_From whence arise the differences of Wounds, and which be they?_

They are taken either from their Figure or Situation: With regard to their Figure, they are call'd Long, Broad or Wide, Triangular Great, Little, Superficial, or Deep; and with respect to their Situation, they are term'd Simple, Complicated, Dangerous, or Mortal.

_What is a Simple and a Complicated Wound?_

A Simple Wound is that which only opens the Flesh, and hath no other concomitant Circumstances; but a Complicated Wound, on the contrary, is that which is attended with grievous Symptoms, as Haemorrhages, Fractures of Bones, Dislocation, Lameness, and others of the like Nature. {142}

_What is a dangerous and mortal Wound?_

A dangerous Wound is that which is complicated the Accidents whereof are dreadful: As when an Artery is open'd or prick'd, when a Nerve or Tendon is cut, or when the Wound is near a Joynt and accompanied with a Dislocation or Fracture. A mortal Wound is that which must be inevitably follow'd by Death; as is that which is situated deep in a principal Part necessary for the Preservation of Life.

_What are the Parts wherein Wounds are mortal?_

They are the Brain, the Heart, the Lungs, the _Oesophagus_ or Gullet, the Diaphragm, the Liver, the Stomach, the Spleen, the small Guts, the Bladder, the Womb, and generally all the great Vessels.

_Wherein doth the Cure of Wounds consist?_

In helping Nature readily to procure the reuniting of the Parts that have been divided, after having taken away or asswag'd every thing that might cause an Obstacle.

_What are the things that hinder the speedy reunion of the Parts?_

They are extraneous Bodies found therein, as Bullets, Flocks, and Pieces of Wood or Stone, &c. As also sometimes the Accidents which attend 'em; as an _Haemorrhage_ or Flux of Blood, Inflammation, _Esthiomenus_ or Mortification, _Hypersarcosis_, or an Excrescence of Flesh, Dislocation, the Fracture of a Bone, the Splinter of a Bone, & sometimes a contrary Air. {143}

_REMEDIES._

_What are the Remedies proper for stopping an _Haemorrhage_ or Flux of Blood?_

The common Remedy is a kind of Cataplasm, made up with the Powders of Aloes, Dragons-Blood, Bole Armenick and Whites of Eggs, which are mix'd together and laid upon the Wound. But the following is an excellent one.

Take two Ounces of Vinegar, a Dram of _Colcothar_, two Drams of _Crocus Martis Astringens_; beat the whole together, steeping _Muscus Quercinus_ therein; then throw upon it the Powder of Mushrooms, or of _Crepitus Lupi_: Apply this Remedy, and you'll soon stop the _Haemorrhage_, taking Care nevertheless to bind the Part well, otherwise the Astringents do not readily take Effect.

To this Purpose you may also make use of Cobwebs, Mill-Dust, and the Powder of Worm-eaten Oak; or else take Oven-Soot mixt with the Juice of the Dung of an Ass or Ox, adding only thereto the White of an Egg.

Besides these Remedies there are also actual and potential Cauteries, or simple Ligatures, which are infallible. Indeed the actual Cautery is not always sure; because when the Escar made by the Fire, falls off the Haemorrhage breaks out again as before: but the potential Cautery is almost always successful; such as the following.

Take about an equal Quantity of Vitriol and Powder of Mushrooms; apply 'em upon a little Lint to the Place where the Blood issueth {144} forth, and you'll see it stop immediately: But Care must be taken to avoid touching a Nerve or Tendon; by reason that the Vitriol is apt to excite Convulsions.

_How is the Inflammation and Mortification of a Wound Suppress'd?_

If the Inflammation proceeds from the Presence of an Extraneous Body, it must be taken away as soon as possible with a Pair of Forceps, and if from the Quantity of _Pus_ or corrupt Matter, it must be let out. But in case the Inflammation ariseth from extreme Pains, they are to be asswaged with Cataplasms or Pultises and anodyn Liniments, such as those that have been already prescribed in the Cure of the _Phlegmon_: or else the Part may be bath'd with Camphirated Spirit of Wine, mixt with as much Water: _Saccharum Saturni_ infus'd in Lime-water, performs the same Effect, and the Water of Crabs alone is admirable in its Operation.

Against the _Esthiomenus_ or Mortification, make use of Wine boil'd with Wormwood, St. _John_'s Wort, Rosemary and Aloes; or else take the Tincture of Aloes and Myrrh, or Spirit of Wine alone impregnated with Camphire and Saffron.

_What is to be done in Case a Convulsion happens by reason of a wounded Nerve or Tendon?_

If the Convulsion be caus'd by the Presence of an Extraneous Body that bruiseth the Part it must be taken away; and if from the wounding of a Nerve, pour into the Wound some Drops of the Oil of Lavender distill'd, which in that Case is of singular Use; this Oyl may be also taken inwardly in an appropriated Liquour, such as a {145} Decoction of Wormwood and the Tops of the lesser Centory. Balsam of _Peru_ us'd in the same Manner, is an excellent Remedy, and the Oyls of Worms, Snails, St. _John_'s-Wort and Turpentine are frequently apply'd with good Success.

If the Convulsion proceeds from the Biting of some venomous Creature, Cupping-Glasses or Leeches are to be immediately applied, putting into the Wound Treacle with the Spirit of Wine or even Fire it self, and leaving to the Physician's Care the Prescription of other vulnerary Remedies proper to be taken inwardly.

_What is to be done to draw the Extraneous Bodies out of a Wound?_

When they cannot be taken away with the Fingers or Forceps, the Patient must be set in the same Station or Posture wherein he was when he receiv'd the Wound, in order to get some farther Light to discover 'em; or else such Plaisters may be us'd as are endu'd with an Attractive Quality: Particularly this:

Take an Ounce of Treacle, half a Dram of Gum _Ammoniack_, one Dram of _Bdellium_, and two Drams of Bore's Grease, adding a Quarter of a Pound of Wax to make 'em up into the Form of a Plaister. It is reported that Hare's Grease alone hath the same Effect, and that it goes for a Secret among the Surgeons but you may (if you please) mix it with Ointment of Betony. However it hath been observed that Leaden Bullets may sometimes remain in a Man's Body, during his whole Life-time without doing any Harm. {146}

_How are Excrescences to be taken away?_

They may be consum'd with Powder of Allom, _Unguentum Aegyptiacum_, or _Lapis infernalis_.

_After having remov'd every thing that hinders the reuniting of the Lips of a Wound, what is to be done to attain thereto?_

The Re-Union in Wounds is properly the Work of Nature; but it may be promoted by putting into 'em a little Balsam of _Peru_, and drawing together their Lips with the Fingers. Afterwards the Lips must be kept closed with a Bandage, a Glutinous Plaister or a dry Stitch, provided the Wound be only superficial, hindring the Air from penetrating into it. For Want of Balsam of _Peru_, an excellent one may be made with the Flowers here specified.

Take the Flowers of Henbane, St. _John's-Wort_, and Comfry and let 'em be digested in the Sun during the whole Summer-Season in the Oyl of Hemp-seed, which Oyl, the longer it is kept, proves so much the better, if it be set forth in the Sun every Summer, the Vessel that contains it being well stop'd. There is also the Balsam of Balsams, or the Balsam of _Paracelsus_ call'd _Samech_.

To avoid the exposing of Wounds to the Air, it is requisite to cover 'em over the Dressings with some sort of Plaister, which is usually termed the Surgeon's Plaister, such is that which is effectual in Dissolving, corroborating and allaying Pain or Inflammation.

Take the Mucilages of the Roots of great Comfrey and Fenegreek, half a Pound of Ceruse or white Lead, two Drams of Crude _Opium_, one Dram of Camphire, as much of Saffron, two Drams of Sandarack, one of the Oyl of {147} Bays, one half Pound of Rosin, and as much Turpentine and Wax. Boil all these Ingredients together in a sufficient Quantity of Lin-seed-Oyl, and make a Plaister according to Art.

In great Wounds it is expedient to lay over the Dressings a Cataplasm or Pultiss, such as this:

Take the Leaves and Flowers of Camomile, and Melilot, the Tops of Wormwood, common Mallows and Marsh-Mallows, with the Seeds of Line and Cummin powder'd: Then boyl the whole Composition in Wine, and add thereto Barly-Meal, to give it a due Consistence. If there be any Cause to fear a Gangrene, you may also intermix Saffron, Myrrh and Aloes with Spirit of Wine.

_Is it necessary to put Tents into all Wounds, and to make use of Digestives and Suppuratives?_

No: It is sufficient to procure the Re-uniting of the Parts simply by the Means of Balsam in small Wounds; because they ought not to be brought to Suppuration: so that Digestives and Suppuratives are only necessary in great Wounds, and those that are accompanied with Contusion, avoiding the ill Custom of some Country-Surgeons, that stuff up their Wounds too much with Tents and Pledgets, whereas they might well be content with simple Bolsters or Dossels which shou'd be dipt in the ordinary Digestive composed of Turpentine and the Yolks of Eggs with a little Brandy, or else with the Tincture of Myrrh and Aloes.

Suppuration may also be promoted by mundifying and quickening the Wound, especially if the Bolsters be steep'd in the following Composition. {148}

Take half an Ounce of Aloes and Myrrh powder'd, two Drams of _Sal Saturni_, twenty Grains of _Sal Ammoniack_, the same quantity of beaten Cloves, a Dram of Queen of _Hungary_ Water and half an Ounce of _Unguentum Basilicon_, and let the whole Mass be mingled together.

In fine, the whole Mystery consists in well cleansing the Wounds with a Linnen Cloth, or with the Injections of the Tinctures of Myrrh and Aloes; or with simple Decoctions of Wormwood, _Scordium_ or Water-Germander, Bugle, Sanicle and Hore-Hound in White-Wine; as also by prescribing the Vulnerary Decoctions of Powder of Crab's-Eyes, and _Saccharum Saturni_, to be taken inwardly, to consume the acid Humours, which are a very great Obstacle that hinders the speedy cure of Wounds.

_What are the Vulnerary Plants, the Decoctions of which is to be taken inwardly?_

They are _Alchymilla_ or Lion's-Foot, Ground-Ivy, _Veronica_ or Fluellin, St. _John_'s-Wort, Wormwood, Centory, Bugle, Sanicle, Chervil, and others. The Broth of Crabs may also be prescrib'd, which is an excellent Remedy, and may serve instead of a Vulnerary Potion.

Sometimes Sutures or Stitches contribute very much to the re-uniting of the Lips of Wounds, when they cannot be join'd by Bandage.

* * * * *

{149}

CHAP. III.

_Of particular Wounds of the Head._

_What ought first to be consider'd in a Wound of the Head?_

Two things, that is to say, the Wound it self, and the Instrument with which it was made; for by the Consideration of the Wound, we may know whether it be Superficial or Deep; and by that of the Instrument, we are enabled to make a truer Judgment concerning the Nature of the same Wound.

_What is a Superficial, and what is a Deep Wound in the Head?_

That is call'd a Superficial Wound in the Head, which lies only in the Skin; and that a Deep one which reacheth to the _Pericranium_, Skull, or Substance of the Brain.

_What is to be apply'd to a Superficial Wound?_

It is cur'd with a little Queen of _Hungary_ Water; or else with a little Balsam, laying upon it the Surgeon's Plaister, or that of Betony. But if the Wound or Rent be somewhat large, it must be clos'd with a Stitch.

_What is to be done to a Deep Wound?_

If it be situated in the _Pericranium_, the Wound must be kept open, waiting for Suppuration; but if it enter the Skull, an Enquiry is to be made, whether there be a Simple Contusion, or a Fracture also. In the Contusion it is necessary to wait for the Suppuration, and the {150} fall of the Splint, and to keep the Wound open; as in the Fracture, to examine whether it be in the first Table only, or in both; it is known to be only in the first, by the Application of an Instrument, and of Ink, as also in regard that there are no ill Symptoms; but a Fracture in both Tables shews it self by the Signs; and it may be found out by making a Crucial Incision in the Flesh, to discover the Fissure.

_What are the Signs of the Fracture of the two Tables of the Skull, and of the overflowing of the Blood upon the Membranes of the Brain?_

They are the loss of the Understanding at the very Moment of receiving the Wound; an Haemorrhage or Flux of Blood thro' the Nose, Mouth, or Ears; drowsiness and heaviness of the Head, and more especially Vomitting of Phlegm; from whence may be inferr'd the necessity of making use of the Trepan.

_What Consequence may be drawn from the Knowledge of the Instrument with which the Wound was made?_