Chapter XXXI: Book XXXI (4)

[604] “Exinanisse.” A fable, of course.

[605] The Teuerium lucidum of Linnæus: though, as Fée says, there is little similarity between it and hyssop, or between its leaves and those of the bean. See B. xxiv. c. 80.

[606] Identified by Fée with the Veratrum album and Veratrum nigrum of Linnæus, species between which there is little difference.

[607] Identified by Tournefort with the Helleborus niger of Lamarck. Littré mentions the Helleborus orientalis of Linnæus.

[608] The stem of white hellebore is much longer than this.

[609] This comparison with the onion, Fée says, is altogether inexact.

[610] If he would imply that they do this without inconvenience, the statement, Fée says, is incorrect.

[611] “Cut off,” and “With many roots.”

[612] Hellebore is no longer used, except in veterinary medicine.

[613] Petronius Arbiter says that the philosopher Chrysippus used it.

[614] M. Livius Drusus. See B. xxviii. c. 42, and B. xxxiii. c. 6.

[615] Anticyra in Phocis was a peninsula, _not_ an island.

[616] In B. xxii. c. 64.

[617] In B. xix. c. 18.

[618] Hence the Greek name “ectomon.”

[619] “Tenuior.”

[620] This is the meaning assigned by Hardouin to the word “ramulos.” Holland renders it “small shoots” or “slips,” and he is probably right.

[621] “Squama æris.”

[622] See a similar statement as to Consiligo, in B. xxvi c. 21.

[623] See B. xv. c. 7, and B. xxiv. c. 11.

[624] Its properties, Fée says, are not more active than those of black hellebore.

[625] Fée remarks, that they showed their wisdom in this.

[626] Herophilus, it must be remembered, lived a considerable time before Themison.

[627] “Forficulis.” He probably refers to c. 21, where, however, he has mentioned only a needle—“acus.” It is possibly a _lapsus memoriæ_ on his part.

[628] This he has stated to be attended with danger, in the case of black hellebore, should the dose be too strong.

[629] In c. 21 of this Book.

[630] Twitchings of the mouth, which cause the patient to show his teeth, like a dog.

[631] Cæsalpinus identifies it with the Erythronium dens canis of Linnæus, and Commerson and Schreiber with the Dorstenia tambourissa of Sonnerat. Fée is probably right in considering its synonym as still unknown.

[632] Hardouin identifies it with the Stachys Germanica, Linnæus and Sprengel with the Nepeta scordotis of Linnæus, and Fée with the Stachys Palæstina.

[633] Fée remarks, that none of the plants mentioned in the last Note bear any resemblance to the “quercus,” or oak.

[634] Probably the Teucrium scorodonia of Linnæus, Fée says; though, as he remarks, the description might apply to many of the Labiatæ.

[635] Its names were derived from Polemon, a king of Pontus, and Philetærus, a king of Cappadocia. It is generally identified with the Polemonium cæruleum of Linnæus, Greek valerian, or Jacob’s ladder. M. Fraäs suggests that it may be the Hypericum Olympicum of Linnæus, with which he also identifies the Panaces chironion.

[636] “With a thousand virtues.”

[637] So called probably from a king Eupator. Sprengel and Desfontaines identify it with the Agrimonia eupatorium, but Fée prefers the Eupatorium cannabinum of Linnæus, relying upon the description given by Dioscorides. B. iv. c. 41.

[638] Fée considers this to be the same with the Panaces centaurion or Pharnaceon of c. 14 of this Book, the greater Centaury. Littré also names the Centaurea centaureum of Linnæus.

[639] See B. xii. c. 15. B. xxiii. cc. 58, 60, and B. xxiv. c. 77, for a preparation with a similar name, but, as Fée says, of an entirely different character.

[640] In B. xxvi. cc. 15, 19, 34, 55, 66, 76, 85, and 91.

[641] Or “small” centaury, Probably the Chironia centaureum of Smith, _Flor. Brit._, our Felwort. Littré names the Erythræa centaureum of Persoon.

[642] From λιβάδες, “flowing streams.”

[643] See B. xxi. cc. 10, 39, and 98, also c. 80 of this Book.

[644] “Fel terræ.”

[645] A word of Celtic origin, most probably, and not from the Greek, as Pintianus supposes.

[646] Theophrastus, as stated by Pliny, in B. ix. c. 9, says that centaury is protected by the “triorchis” (see B. x. cc. 95, 96), and Pliny in translating the passage has made a mistake as to a third kind. Fée is probably right in his conjecture that the Centaurea centaureum is meant; though Brotier and Desfontaines look upon this as being a distinct plant, and identify it with the Rumex sanguineus of Linnæus.

[647] The root of the greater centaury, Fée remarks, is of a deep red within.

[648] Pliny himself is one of the “imperiti” here.

[649] Son of Cæneus, and king of Arcadia. The plant is identified with the Lonicera periclymenum of Linnæus, our Woodbine or Honeysuckle. Sibthorp identifies the Clymenum of Dioscorides with the Convolvulus sepium of Linnæus, and Sprengel with the Lathyrus clymenum of Linnæus.

[650] Possibly the Clymenum of Dioscorides, mentioned in the preceding Note. Littré names the Calendula arvensis, the Field marigold.

[651] The Gentiana lutea of Linnæus.

[652] This, Fée remarks, is not the fact.

[653] This comparison is inexact.

[654] It is _not_ swarthy.

[655] A king of Thrace, contemporary with Alexander the Great. Sprengel and Desfontaines identify this plant with the Lythrum salicaria of Linnæus, the purple Willow-herb. Fée, on the authority of Dioscorides, identifies it with the Lysimachia vulgaris of Linnæus, the yellow Willow-plant. Littré gives the Lysimachia atro-purpurea of Linnæus.

[656] Pliny has probably mistranslated the Greek πυῤῥόν here, “reddish yellow.”

[657] An absurdity, of course.

[658] Artemis or Diana, the guardian of pregnant women.

[659] Probably the Artemisia chamæmelifolia, Camomile-leaved mugwort. The A. arborescens, the Tree-wormwood is named by Littré.

[660] Either the Artemisia Pontica of Linnæus, Little wormwood, or Roman wormwood, or else A. campestris of Linnæus, Field southern-wood.

[661] Identified with the Artemisia camphorata of Linnæus, Camphorated mugwort.

[662] Quite a different plant. See B. xxvii. c. 11.

[663] Judging from the text of Dioscorides, a passage has been probably lost here, to the effect that “it is taken in drink by persons troubled with lascivious dreams.”

[664] Identified with the Nymphæa alba of Linnæus, the White-flowered nymphæa.

[665] “Adversatur ei allium.” A corrupt reading, in all probability.

[666] The Nuphar lutea of Sibthorp; the Yellow-flowered nymphæa, or Nenuphar.

[667] See B. v. c. i.

[668] In B. xix. c. 38.

[669] Il. xii. 444.

[670] The Euphorbia officinarum of Linnæus, Officinal spurge.

[671] An incorrect statement, as Fée remarks.

[672] Its odour, Fée says, is not so strong as Pliny would have us believe.

[673] On the contrary, Fée observes, it would be not unlikely to produce ophthalmia of the most obstinate kind.

[674] This Fée considers to be almost impracticable.

[675] Cisalpine Gaul.

[676] See B. xiii. c. 35.

[677] See B. xii. c. 49, B. xxiv. c. 14, and B. xxxi. c. 39.

[678] The Plantago lagopus of Linnæus, according to Sibthorp; but Sprengel identifies it with the Plantago lanceolata of Linnæus, or else the P. maritima.

[679] The Plantago altissima or major of modern botany.

[680] _I.e._ the ribs, nerves, or sinews of the leaf.

[681] “Seven-sided.”

[682] Whence its name, from the Greek. Sprengel and Desfontaines identify it with the Borrago officinalis of Linnæus, our Borage. Littré gives the Anchusa Italica.

[683] Though Pliny’s assertion is supported by the authority of the School of Salerno, Fée treats it as entirely unfounded. Leaves of borage still form an ingredient in the beverages known as Copas and Cider-cup at Cambridge. See this usage, and the identity of the Buglossos discussed at some length by Beckmann, Hist. Inv. Vol. ii. p. 340, _Bohn’s Ed._

[684] “Promoting cheerfulness.”

[685] “Dog’s tongue.” The Cynoglossum officinale of Linnæus, Hound’s tongue, or Venus’ navel-wort; or else the C. pictum of Aiton.

[686] Fée is at a loss to know how it can have been employed in topiary work or ornamental gardening.

[687] This statement is made by Dioscorides with reference to Arnoglossos, Lamb’s tongue, or Plantago. See c. 39, above.

[688] Identified with the Myosotis lappula of Linnæus, Prickly-seeded scorpion-grass.

[689] See B. xxi. c. 64.

[690] “Ranis.” Under this name he probably includes toads.

[691] Sprengel and Desfontaines identify it with the Anthemis valentina of Linnæus, the Purple-stalked camomile; but Fée agrees with Sibthorp in considering it to be the Chrysanthemum segetum of Linnæus, the Corn marigold, the former not being, apparently, a native of Greece. Littré gives the Chrysanthemum coronarium of Linnæus, the Garland chrysanthemum.

[692] “Steatomata.” Tumours of a fatty nature.

[693] Generally agreed to be identical with the Glycyrrhiza of B. xxii. c. 2, our Liquorice. Fée says that the G. asperrima grows in great abundance on the banks of the river Volga.

[694] See B. xxvii. c. 1.

[695] Liquorice certainly palls the appetite, but it is very apt to create thirst.

[696] In copying from the Greek, Pliny has mistaken “hippace,” a cheese made from mare’s milk, for a plant! It is very likely, however, that it would tend, like any other cheese, to appease hunger, though, probably, not thirst.

[697] He has probably invented this reason himself, as it is hardly probable that the Scythians would feed their horses with cheese, even though made from mare’s milk.

[698] Sprengel identifies it with the Andropogon ischæmon of Linnæus, the Woolly andropogon. Fée expresses his doubts as to its identification. It derives its name “ischæmon,” from its property of stanching blood.

[699] To arrest epistaxis or bleeding at the nose.

[700] The Betonica alopecuros of Linnæus, the Fox-tail betony.

[701] The “little saw.”

[702] “Nurtured by breezes.” M. Fraäs thinks that the Cestros of the Greeks is a different plant from the Vettonica of the Romans, and identifies it with the Sideritis Syriaca.

[703] See B. xx. c. 85.

[704] Pliny is the only author that mentions the Cantabrica, and his account, Fée thinks, is too meagre to enable us satisfactorily to identify it with the Convolvulus cantabrica of Linnæus.

[705] A conical work-basket or cup. See B. xxi. c. 11.

[706] Sprengel and other commentators identify it with the Pulmonaria officinalis of Linnæus, Lungwort or Pulmonary. Others, again, consider it to be the Veratrum album of Linnæus, or White hellebore. Fée considers that its synonym has not hitherto been discovered. Holland calls it Bear-foot.

[707] B. xxvi. c. 21.

[708] Fée identifies it with the Lepidium graminifolium of Linnæus, Grass-leaved pepperwort; Desfontaines with the L. Iberis of Linnæus, Bushy pepperwort. Littré gives as its synonym the Iberis amara of Linnæus, the White candy-tuft.

[709] “Fictum nomen.” Salmasius thinks that by these words, Pliny means that Democrates invented the name of a friend of his as being the discoverer of this plant, which in reality was discovered by himself. It would seem to mean, however, that the name “iberis” was only a fanciful title, derived from the country where it was found, and given to it for want of acquaintance with its real name.

[710] Still preserved in Galen, B. x. c. 2.

[711] The Chelidonium majus of Linnæus, the Greater celandine or swallow-wort.

[712] “Pastinaca erratica.” See c. 64 of this Book.

[713] Identified with the Ranunculus ficaria of Linnæus, the Pilewort, or Lesser celandine.

[714] The same is the case, Fée remarks, with numbers of other plants.

[715] “Collyriis.”

[716] The Dactylos of B. xxiv. c. 119, is supposed to be the plant alluded to. The word “canariam” is found here in former editions, but Sillig omits it. Indeed Pliny seems to say that it is quite unknown to him.

[717] In B. xxii. c. 37.

[718] From the Greek ἕλκω, “to draw.”

[719] In B. viii. c. 41.

[720] The Origanum dictamnus of Linnæus, Dittany of Candia.

[721] This is an error: it grows, and doubtless did in Pliny’s time, in numerous other places; but that of Mount Ida in Crete was held in the highest esteem.

[722] It has all three, in fact; as Fée says, it is evident that Pliny never saw it. Its medicinal properties are no longer held in any esteem.

[723] “False-dittany.” It is generally identified with the Marrubium pseudodictamnus of Linnæus, the Shrubby white horehound; though perhaps on insufficient grounds.

[724] Fée is inclined, with Sprengel, to identify it with the Origanum Creticum of Linnæus. Other commentators have suggested the Origanum Tournefortii, the Thymus mastichina of Linnæus, and the Marrubium acetabulosum of Linnæus.

[725] See B. xx. c. 91.

[726] “Limes Diomedis.”

[727] “Most excellent for pregnancy.”

[728] See B. xxvi. c. 56.

[729] Identified by Fée with the Aristolochia rotunda of Linnæus, Rounded birthwort, a native of the south of France and the southern parts of Europe. Littré gives the Aristolochia pallida of Willdenow.

[730] Most probably the Aristolochia longa of Linnæus, found in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Littré gives as its synonym the Aristolochia parvifolia of Sibthorp.

[731] The Aristolochia clematis of Linnæus, almost identical with the Aristolochia Cretica and Bætica.

[732] The Aristolochia plistolochia of Linnæus, the Spanish branching stemmed birthwort. Fée thinks that these identifications, though probable enough, are not altogether satisfactory, and that the Greeks may have made these distinctions between varieties of the plant comparatively unknown to the rest of Europe. They are no longer held in any esteem for their medicinal properties.

[733] See B. xxvi. c. 91.

[734] “With many roots.”

[735] See B. xxvi. c. 62.

[736] See c. 6 of this Book.

[737] See cc. 11, 12, 13, 14, of this Book.

[738] See B. xx. c. 61.

[739] See B. xxiv. c. 80.

[740] See c. 15 of this Book.

[741] See c. 27 of this Book.

[742] See c. 35 of this Book.

[743] See c. 50 of this Book.

[744] See B. xvi. c. 24.

[745] See c. 54 of this Book. As Fée remarks, these asserted remedies for the stings of serpents are not deserving of discussion.

[746] The Papaver argemone of Linnæus, the Rough poppy. It is a native of France, and many other parts of Europe.

[747] This, Fée remarks, is not stated by Dioscorides, whose description is more correct.

[748] It is supposed by commentators that he is in error here, and that this description applies to the Lappa canaria, mentioned in B. xxiv. c. 116.

[749] The root of the Papaver argemone has no such smell.

[750] See B. xxi. c. 94, B. xxiv. c. 116, and B. xxvi. c. 59.

[751] The Boletus agaricum of Aiton, or White agaric. It is a strong purgative, but is rarely used for that purpose.

[752] This distinction into male and female is no longer recognized, though it continued to be so till within the last century.

[753] Desfontaines identifies it with the Saponaria ocimoïdes. Fée thinks it may have possibly been some kind of sage, or else a variety of the Lavendula stœchas of Linnæus, French lavender. Littré gives the Silene Gallica of Linnæus, the Gallic catchfly.

[754] Identified by Fée with the Pseudanchusa, Echis, or Doris of B. xxii. c. 24, the Anchusa Italica of Linnæus. Littré gives the Echium rubrum of Linnæus.

[755] The Arctium lappa of Linnæus, probably, our Great clot-burr. See B. xxi. c. 51.

[756] See B. xxi. c. 64.

[757] “Holy plant.”

[758] “Pigeon plant.”

[759] Our “vervain.” It was much used in philtres, and was as highly esteemed as the mistletoe by the people of Gaul. It is no longer used in medicine.

[760] In B. xxii. c. 3.

[761] On the occasion of the Feasts of Jupiter in the Capitol, prepared by the Septemviri.

[762] The Verbena supina of Linnæus, Recumbent vervain.

[763] The Verbena officinalis of Linnæus, Vervain or holy plant.

[764] See c. 73 of this Book.

[765] Mostly identified with the third Phlomos, mentioned in c. 74 of this Book. Littré gives as its synonym the Phlomis fruticosa of Linnæus, Jerusalem sage, or tree-sage.

[766] “Blattæ.”

[767] Not the “Limonion” of B. xx. c. 28, as the Statice limonium emits no juice. Desfontaines identifies it with the Scolymos or Limonia of B. xxii. c. 43; but Fée is inclined to think that Pliny is speaking of the Atractylis gummifera, but has made a mistake in the name.

[768] Or “five-leaved.” Most probably the Potentilla reptans of Linnæus, our Cinquefoil, or Five-leaved grass. Sprengel, however, identifies it with the Tormentilla reptans of Linnæus, the Tormentil; and other authorities with the Potentilla rupestris of Linnæus.

[769] Its fruit is dry, and bears no resemblance to the strawberry.

[770] “Five-leaved.”

[771] “Creeping on the ground.”

[772] Identified by Fée with the Sparganium ramosum of Linnæus, or Branchy burr-reed. Littré gives the Butonus umbellatus of Linnæus, the Flowering rush, or Water gladiole.

[773] Fée remarks, that the account given by Pliny has not the same precision as that of Dioscorides, who describes three varieties of the Daucus.

[774] Fée is inclined to identify the Daucus of Crete and Achaia with the Daucus Creticus of Fuchsius, the Athamanta annua of Linnæus. Desfontaines identifies it with the Athamanta Cretensis of Linnæus.

[775] This kind is identified by Fée with the Seseli ammoïdes of Linnæus, and by Littré with the Ammi majus of Linnæus, the Common or Greater bishop’s weed.

[776] Identified by Sprengel with the Daucus Mauritanicus, and by Brotero and Desfontaines with the Daucus carota, var. α, our Common carrot. Fée seems inclined to identify it with the Athamanta cervaria of Linnæus, Mountain carrot, or Broad-leaved spignel. The account given by Pliny is, however, a mass of confusion.

[777] Or “wild parsnip.” See B. xix. c. 27.

[778] For the purpose of expelling the dead fœtus, according to Dioscorides, B. iii. c. 83.

[779] See B. xxiv. c. 102. The plant here spoken of has not been identified, but the Epilobium angustifolium, montanum, tetragonum, &c., varieties of the Willow-herb, have been suggested. They are destitute, however, of all poisonous qualities.

[780] Hence its name—“Benumbing wild beasts.”

[781] Fée thinks that there is an error in the name, and that it is the “personata” that is here spoken of, the plant already mentioned in c. 58 of this Book. Hardouin identifies it with the Tussilago petasites—the Butter-burr, according to Nemnich—but apparently without any sufficient authority.

[782] Fée identifies it with the Cyclamen hederæfolium of Aiton, the Ivy-leaved sow-bread; Littré with the Cyclamen Græcum of Lamarck.

[783] “Tuberosity of the earth.”

[784] “Suum venenum ei est.” Gerard seems to have had a worse opinion of it than our author; for he states in his Herbal, p. 845, that he had experienced great misfortunes owing to his _imprudence_ in having cultivated Cyclamen in his garden.

[785] “Ivy-flowered.” It resembles the other plant in nothing but the name. Fée is inclined, with Desfontaines, to identify it with the Lonicera caprifolium of Linnæus, the Italian honeysuckle, though that plant bears no resemblance in either leaf or flower to the ivy. The Lonicera periclymenum of Linnæus, the Common woodbine or honeysuckle, has been also suggested, as well as the Bryonia alba, Solanum dulcamara, and Cucubalus bacciferus.

[786] According to Brotero, it is the Parnassia palustris of Tournefort, an opinion with which Fée is inclined to agree. Sprengel considers it to be the same as the Convallaria bifolia of Linnæus, our Small lily of the valley, and identifies it with the one-leafed Ceratia of B. xxvi. c. 34. Littré names the Antirrhinum asarina of Linnæus, the Bastard asarum.

[787] The Peucedanum officinale of Linnæus, Sulphur-wort, or Hog’s fennel. It receives its name from a fancied resemblance between its fruit and that of the “Peuce,” or pitch-tree.

[788] This juice, Fée remarks, is no longer known.

[789] Or Wall-wort. See B. xxiv. c. 35. and B. xxvi. c. 49.

[790] See c. 28 of this Book.

[791] See c. 54 of this Book.

[792] Identified by Fée with the Verbascum thapsus of Linnæus, Great mullein, High-taper, or Cow’s lung-wort.

[793] Identified by Fée with the Verbascum sinuatum of Linnæus. Desfontaines considers _this_ to be the male plant of Pliny, and the V. thapsus to be the female.

[794] Fée considers this to be the same as the Blattaria mentioned in c. 60, and identifies it with the Verbascum phlomoïdes of Linnæus. Sprengel and Desfontaines consider it to be the Phlomis lychnitis of Linnæus. Littré gives the Phlomus fruticosa of Linnæus, the Jerusalem sage, or Tree sage.

[795] See B. xxii. c 71.

[796] Fée identifies these two kinds with the Phlomis fruticosa of Linnæus; Sprengel and Desfontaines consider the second kind to be the Phlomis Italica of Smith; on insufficient grounds, Fée thinks. Littré mentions the Sideritis Romana and S. elegans of Linnæus.

[797] The “Lamp plant.” It is mostly identified with the Verbascum lychnitis of Linnæus, the White mullein. Fée is somewhat doubtful on the point. It is doubtful whether it is not the same as the Thryallis, mentioned in B. xxi. c. 61. Littré identifies it with the Phlomis lychnitis.

[798] In the last paragraph he is speaking of the Phlomos, here he evidently reverts to the Phlomis.

[799] Or “Female killer.” See B. xxvii. c. 2.

[800] Dioscorides states, somewhat more rationally, that this plant strikes the scorpion with torpor, and that the contact of hellebore revives it.

[801] “Rubetis.” A kind of toad, probably. See B. viii. c. 48, B. xi. c. 16, and B. xxxii. c. 18.

[802] Schneider, on Nicander’s Alexiph. p. 277, says that he cannot understand this passage. There is little doubt that Sillig is right in his conjecture that it is imperfect, for the pith of the narrative, whatever it may have been, is evidently wanting. The Psylli were said to be proof against all kinds of poisons. See B. viii. c. 38, and B. xi. c. 30; also Lucan’s Pharsalia, B. ix. l. 192, _et seq._

[803] See also B. xxvii. c. 97. Fée identifies it with the Astragalus Creticus of Lamarck, Desfontaines with the Astragalus poterium.

[804] The “nerve-plant” and the “drinking-plant,” apparently.

[805] Sprengel identifies it with the Alisma Parnassifolium of Linnæus; but as that plant is not found in Greece, Sibthorp suggests the Alisma plantago of Linnæus, the Great water-plantain. It has no medicinal properties, though it was esteemed till very recent times as curative of hydrophobia.

[806] “Capite thyrsi.”

[807] See B. ix. c. 72, and B. xxxii. c. 3.

[808] In c. 6 of this Book.

[809] “Pigeon-plant.” The same as Vervain, already described in c. 59 of this Book.

[810] See c. 8 of this Book.

[811] By “Mithridatia” he probably means the antidotes attributed to Mithridates in c. 3 of this Book, and in B. xxix. c. 8, and not the plant previously mentioned in c. 26.

[812] See c. 27 of this Book.

[813] See c. 54 of this Book.

[814] See c. 55.

[815] Generally identified with the Antirrhinum Orontium of Linnæus, Small toad-flax, Calf’s snout, or Lesser wild snapdragon. Desfontaines mentions the Antirrhinum purpureum, and Littré the A. majus of Linnæus, the Common snapdragon, or Greater calf’s snout.

[816] “Wild lychnis.”

[817] Theophrastus says, B. ix. c. 21, speaking of the last-mentioned plant, “The same too, with reference to glory and consideration.” Pliny, singularly enough, has mistaken the Greek word “eucleia” (glory) for the name of a plant, and has fabricated one accordingly: a similar blunder to that made by him with reference to “hippace,” in c. 44 of this Book.

[818] See c. 36 of this Book.

[819] Fée is inclined to identify it with the Bulbine of B. xx. c. 41 probably the Hyacinthus botryoïdes of Linnæus, the Blue grape hyacinth. Brotero and Desfontaines name the Hyacinthus comosus, the Purple grape hyacinth. Littré mentions the Ornithogalum nutans of Linnæus, the May star of Bethlehem.

[820] Identified by Fée with the Bulbus vomitorius or Bulb emetic of B. xx. c. 41, the same, in his opinion, with the Narcissus jonquilla, the Emetic jonquil. Sprengel, however, would identify the Bulbus vomitorius with either the Narcissus orientalis or the Pancratium Illyricum; and Sibthorp considers its synonym to be the Ornithogalum stachyoïdes of Aiton. Littré gives the Muscari comosum.

[821] See c. 13 of this Book.

[822] See c. 37 of this Book, and B. xxvi. c. 28.

[823] There seems to be an hiatus here. From the words of Dioscorides, B. iii. c. 138, it would appear that pitch was the other ingredient, to be beaten up with the plant.

[824] The same as the Polytrichos of B. xxii. c. 30.

[825] In B. xxii. c. 30, he makes them to be the same plant, and it is most probable that they may be both referred to the Asplenium trichomanes of Linnæus.

[826] “Frutice.”

[827] See B. xxiv. c. 108.

[828] See c. 11 of this Book.

[829] See c. 54 of this Book.

[830] See c. 49 of this Book.

[831] See c. 67 of this Book.

[832] Or Vervain.

[833] Sprengel identified this plant at first with the Buplevrum longifolium of Linnæus, the Long-leaved hare’s ear, but at a later period with the Mercurialis tomentosa, the Woolly mercury. Fée suggests the Cacalia petasites or albifrons, though with diffidence. Littré gives the Cacalia verbascifolia of Sibthorp.

[834] See c. 83 of this Book; also B. xxii. c. 30, and B. xxvii. c. 111.

[835] There has been much discussion on the identification of the Hyssopum of the ancients, their descriptions varying very considerably. It has been suggested that that of the Egyptians was the Origanum Ægyptianum; that of the Hebrews, the Origanum Syriacum; that of Dioscorides, the Origanum Smyrnæum; and that of the other Greek writers, the Teuerium pseudo-hyssopus, or else the Thymbra verticillata and spicata. Fée is inclined to identify that here mentioned by Pliny with the Thymbra spicata of Linnæus, and the Garden hyssop of Dioscorides, with the Hyssopus officinalis of Linnæus. Littré states, however, that this last is a stranger to Greece, and that M. Fräas (_Synopsis_, p. 182) identifies the hyssop of Dioscorides with the Origanum Smyrnæum or Syriacum.

[836] Generally identified with the Serapias lingua of Linnæus.

[837] The same, most probably, as the Gladiolus of B. xxi. c. 67. See also the next Chapter in this Book.

[838] This was a characteristic feature of the masks used in the Roman Comedy.

[839] See Note 837 above. The medicinal properties here attributed to the Xiphion, or Gladiolus communis, our common Red corn-flag, are very doubtful, as Fée remarks.

[840] With the outer coat on, of course.

[841] Dalechamps is probably right in preferring the reading “carpentis” to “serpentis,” in which case the meaning would be, “or bones when accidentally crushed by the wheels of vehicles.”

[842] Or “meagrim.”

[843] Identified with the Plantago Psyllium of Linnæus, our Fleawort Fleaseed, or Fleabane.

[844] Nothing, Fée says, can be more absurd than this description of the plant.

[845] Whence its name “cynoïdes” and “cynomyia.”

[846] This plant has not been identified; Wild water-parsley, perhaps a kind of Sium, has been suggested.

[847] All the plants here mentioned are of a more or less irritating nature, and would greatly imperil the sight.

[848] See c. 50 of this Book.

[849] See c. 11 of this Book.

[850] See B. xviii. c. 14, and B. xxii. c. 59.

[851] “Collyriis.”

[852] A most dangerous application, in reality.

[853] A comparatively harmless, though useless application.

[854] See c. 49 of this Book.

[855] See c. 73 of this Book.

[856] In c. 70 of this Book.

[857] See c. 90 of this Book.

[858] The Corchorus of B. xxi. c. 106, is most probably altogether a different plant.

[859] Identified with the Anagallis arvensis of Linnæus, with a red flower, the Red pimpernel, Corn pimpernel, or Shepherd’s weather-glass.

[860] The Anagallis cæruleo flore of Tournefort, the Blue pimpernel.

[861] In reality they are destitute of medicinal properties. It is said, though apparently on no sufficient grounds, that red pimpernel is poisonous to small birds.

[862] Or “blood-shot eyes.”

[863] A disease of the pupil.

[864] Belladonna, a preparation from the Atropa belladonna, is now generally used for this purpose.

[865] “Paracentesis.”

[866] This plant is unknown. Fée suggests that Pliny may have made a mistake, and that the account from which he copies may have been, that when cattle have been stung by the asilus, or gadfly, they have recourse to the Anagallis.

[867] “Savage eye.”

[868] In c. 38 of this Book.

[869] See B. xviii. c. 44, and B. xxi. c. 63.

[870] Or “Plant of Circe.”

[871] Identified by Fée with the Atropa mandragora vernalis of Bertolini, the Spring mandrake.

[872] The Atropa mandragora autumnalis of Bertolini, the Autumnal mandrake.

[873] The Greek for “male.”

[874] “Dementing.” Fée remarks that the “Morion” in reality is a different plant, and queries whether it may not be the Atropa belladonna of Linnæus, the Belladonna, or Deadly nightshade, mentioned above in Note 864.

[875] The female, or black, mandrake.

[876] See B. xx. c. 85.

[877] The superstitions with reference to the Mandrake extended from the earliest times till a very recent period. It was used in philtres, and was supposed to utter piercing cries when taken up; Josephus counsels those whose business it is to do so, to employ a dog for the purpose if they would avoid dreadful misfortunes. All these notions probably arose from the resemblance which the root bears to the legs and lower part of the human body. See B. xxii. c. 9, where we have queried in a Note whether the Eryngium may not have been the “mandrake,” the possession of which was so much coveted by the wives of Jacob.

[878] “Pestis est.”

[879] In the same way that chloroform is now administered.

[880] “Cicuta.” Identified with the Conium maculatum of Linnæus, Common hemlock or Keghs. It grows in the vicinity of Athens, and probably formed the basis of the poisons with which that volatile people “recompensed,” as Fée remarks, the virtues and exploits of their philosophers and generals. Socrates, Phocion, and Philopœmen, are said to have been poisoned with hemlock; but in the case of Socrates, it was probably combined with opium and other narcotics. See B. xiv. cc. 7, 28, and B. xxiii. c. 23.

[881] He has more than once stated, that it is not his object to enter into a description of poisons.

[882] Fée doubts if it is possible to eat it, boiled even, with impunity.

[883] See B. xiv. cc. 7, 28, and B. xxiii. c. 23.

[884] A very dangerous use of it, Desfontaines thinks.

[885] Desfontaines says that it is still employed in various ways when the milk is in excess.

[886] By causing those organs to waste away.

[887] The province of Asia Minor.

[888] “Wild crethmos.” Generally identified with the Crithmum maritimum of Linnæus, Small samphire, or sea fennel.

[889] Or “lead plant.” Identified with the Plumbago Europæa of Linnæus, Leadwort, or French dittander.

[890] See B. xx. c. 85.

[891] “Lead disease,” apparently; livid spots on the eyelids, Hardouin thinks.

[892] Or “smoke-plant;” so called from its smell, which resembles that of smoke or soot.

[893] “Pedes gallinacei.” Identified by Fée with the Corydalis digitata of Persoon, or else the C. bulbosa, or C. fabacea, several varieties of Fumitory.

[894] Identified by Fée with the Fumaria parvifolia of Lamarck, Small-leaved fumitory, or Earth-smoke. Other varieties of Fumitory have also been mentioned.

[895] The Acorus calamus of Linnæus, Sweet cane, or Sweet-smelling flag. See B. xii. c. 48.

[896] See B. xxi. c. 19.

[897] “Utribus.”

[898] See B. xv. c. 7.

[899] Identified with the Cotyledon umbilicus of Smith, _Flor. Brit._, Navel-wort, Kidney-wort, or Wall penny-wort.

[900] Identified by Littré with the Saxifraga media of Gouan; and by Fée with the Cotyledon serrata of Linnæus, Saw-toothed navel-wort.

[901] “Sordidis.”

[902] “Always living.”

[903] “Bull’s eye,” “living eye,” and “love exciter.” The Sempervivum tectorum of Linnæus, common Houseleek or Sengreene.

[904] Called “geisa” in Greek.

[905] “Great houseleek,” “eye,” or “little finger.”

[906] Fée identifies it with the Sedum ochroleucum of Sibthorp; Sprengel with the Sedum altissimum, and others with the Sedum acre, varieties of Wall pepper, or Stone-crop. Littré gives the Sedum amplexicaule of Decandolle.

[907] “Spring blossoming.”

[908] “Blossoming like gold.”

[909] “The same all the year.”

[910] “Wild andrachle.” Desfontaines identifies it with the Sedum stellatum; Fée, though with some hesitation, with the Sedum reflexum of Linnæus, the Sharp-pointed stone-crop, or Prick-madam. The Sedum, however, is of a caustic and slightly corrosive nature, and not edible; in which it certainly differs from the Andrachle agria of our author. Holland calls it “Wild purslain.”

[911] This is probably the meaning of “palpebras deglutinat.”

[912] See c. 19 of this Book.

[913] See c. 100 of this Book.

[914] “Strigil.” This in general means a “body-scraper;” but it most probably signifies a “syringe,” in the present instance. See B. xxix c. 39, and B. xxxi c. 47.

[915] See B. xxiv. c. 35.

[916] See c. 19 of this Book.

[917] See c. 54 of this Book.

[918] See B. xxi. cc. 69, 70.

[919] “Ozænam.”

[920] See c. 11 of this Book.

[921] See c. 28 of this Book.

[922] See c. 73 of this Book.

[923] See c. 92 of this Book.

[924] Identified by Desfontaines with the Senecio Jacobæa of Linnæus, Common ragwort. Fée identifies it with the Senecio vulgaris of Linnæus, our Groundsel. They are both destitute of medicinal properties.

[925] Sec B. xxiv. c. 80.

[926] Ἔαρι γέρων, “aged,” or “hoary in spring.”

[927] “Spinæ.” He probably uses a wrong term, and means “thistle.”

[928] It may possibly have been so called from the Acanthis, or goldfinch, that bird being fond of groundsel.

[929] “Thistle-down.” If Pliny is speaking of groundsel, he is wrong in his assertion that it turns white, or in other words, goes to seed, in spring.

[930] Sprengel identifies it with the Ornithogalum stachyoïdes; but that has no blue flower, and the same is the case with many other plants that have been suggested as its synonym. Fée suggests the Convallaria verticillata of Linnæus, the whorl-leaved Solomon’s seal; as to which, however, there is the same difficulty in reference to the flower. Holland calls it the “May lily,” otherwise the Lily of the valley, the Convallaria Maialis; and this is the synonym suggested by Fuchsius. Littré gives the Convallaria multiflora of Linnæus.

[931] See c. 50 of this Book.

[932] Or “Venus’ bath.” Identified by Littré with the Dipsacus silvestris of Linnæus, and by Fée with the Dipsacus fullonum of Linnæus, the Teazel, or Fuller’s thistle. It received its Roman name from the form of the leaves, which are channelled, and curved at the edges.

[933] This is entirely erroneous; he may possibly have mistranslated some author, who has stated that the rain-water settles in reservoirs formed by the leaves.

[934] He alludes to the larvæ of the Curculio or weevil, which are found in the head of the Dipsacus, and many other plants. See B. xxvii. c. 62, and B. xxx. c. 8.

[935] “Frog-plant.”

[936] “Little frog.” Called “Crow-foot” by us.

[937] Sprengel identifies it with the Ranunculus Seguieri, Fée with the R. Asiaticus, also a native of Greece.

[938] Identified by Desfontaines with the Ranunculus hirsutus, or philonotis. Fée, with Hardouin, considers it to be the same as the Apiastrum of B. xx. c. 45, and identifies it with the Ranunculus Sardoüs of Crantz, the plant probably which produces a contraction of the mouth, rendered famous as the “Sardonic grin,” and more commonly known as the Ranunculus sceleratus, Apium risus, or Apium Sardoüm, “Laughing parsley,” or “Sardinian parsley.”

[939] Identified by Sprengel and Desfontaines with the Ranunculus repens. or Creeping crow-foot; but by Fée, with the Ranunculus muricatus of Linnæus.

[940] Identified by Desfontaines with the Ranunculus aconitifolius; by Fée with the Ranunculus aquatilis of Linnæus, the Water crowfoot. The Ranunculi are all active poisons.

[941] A fabulous assertion, probably, and it is very doubtful if any one ever made the trial of its efficacy.

[942] Or scrofula.

[943] See B xxi. c 83, and B. xxvi. c. 5.

[944] See c. 90 of this Book.

[945] See B. xxiv. cc. 91, 93.

[946] “Stigmata.”

[947] See c. 94 of this Book.

[948] See end of B. xx.

[949] See end of B. xiv.

[950] See end of B. xii.

[951] See end of B. xx.

[952] See end of B. xx.

[953] See end of B. vii.

[954] For Fabianus Papirius, see end of B. ii.; for Fabianus Sabinus, see end of B. xviii.

[955] See end of B. iii.

[956] See end of B. xi.

[957] See end of B. ii.

[958] See end of B. v.

[959] See end of B. xx.

[960] See end of B. ii.

[961] See end of B. viii.

[962] See end of B. xix.

[963] See end of B. viii.

[964] See end of B. vii.

[965] See end of B. xxi.

[966] See end of B. xxi.

[967] A Lydian historian, anterior to Herodotus, of whom little is known with any degree of certainty. He probably flourished in the earlier part of the fifth century B.C.

[968] See end of B. xxi.

[969] See end of B. xxi.

[970] See end of B. iv.

[971] See end of B. xxi.

[972] See end of B. xxi.

[973] See end of B. xxi.

[974] See end of B. vii.

[975] See end of B. xx.

[976] See end of B. xx.

[977] See end of B. xx.

[978] See end of B. xii.

[979] See end of B. xv.

[980] See end of B. xii.

[981] See end of B. xx.

[982] See end of B. xx.

[983] See end of B. xx.

[984] See end of B. xx.

[985] See end of B. xx.

[986] See end of B. xx.

[987] See end of B. xx.

[988] See end of B. xx.

[989] See end of B. vii.

[990] See end of B. xx.

[991] See end of B. xx.

[992] See end of B. xii.

[993] See end of B. xi.

[994] See end of B. xii.

[995] See end of B. xx.

[996] See end of B. xii.

[997] See end of B. xx.

[998] See end of B. xx.

[999] See end of B. xx.

[1000] See end of B. xx.

[1001] See end of B. xx.

[1002] See end of B. xx.

[1003] See end of B. xii.

[1004] See end of B. xx.

[1005] See end of B. xx.

[1006] See end of B. xix.

[1007] See end of B. xx.

[1008] See end of B. xx.

[1009] See end of B. xx.

[1010] Probably as Littré suggests, a peculiar form of elephantiasis, the leprosy of the middle ages.

[1011] The “chin disease:” from “mentum,” the “chin.” It is difficult to detect the joke which has here incurred the censure of our author.

[1012] Meaning the people of Italy.

[1013] It is somewhat difficult to say whether Tiberius, the predecessor, or Claudius, the successor of Caligula, is meant; most probably the latter, as the former’s reign would have been in the times of “our fathers.”

[1014] Asia Minor.

[1015] “Cum apparuisset.” He is probably wrong here, for leprosy was known in Asia from the very earliest times.

[1016] This assertion as to the slaves and lower orders is somewhat doubtful, though it is very possible that the diet and habits of the higher orders may have predisposed them more particularly for the attacks of the diseases.

[1017] “Osculi”, “kissing;” a nauseous and silly practice, still adhered to, between bearded men even, in many parts of Europe.

[1018] Upwards of £1500.

[1019] A.U.C. 590.

[1020] “Carbunculus.” A malignant pustule, accompanied with swelling and ending with gangrene, is still known by this name, but it does not manifest any particular preference for the mouth and tongue. Fée says that carbuncle was recently (1833) endemic in Provence, the ancient Gallia Narbonensis, for which reason it had received the name of “Charbon Provençal.”

[1021] Consul, A.U.C. 819.

[1022] Consul, A.U.C. 816.

[1023] Judging from this symptom, Dalechamps says that it looks more like chancre than carbuncle.

[1024] In B. xx. c. 52.

[1025] Supposed, as Pliny says, to have originally come from Upper Egypt. Lucretius, B. vi. l. 1111, _et seq._, attributes it to the water of the Nile. It is but rarely known in Europe.

[1026] Fée thinks that this may have been a sort of abscess similar to those between the fingers which are known as _fourches_ by the French, and by medical men as “Aposthema phalangum.” Gruner considers it to be a sort of Elephantiasis, and Triller identifies it with the disease called _Gumretha_ by the Talmudists.

[1027] “Colum.” Fée takes this to be Schirrus of the colon.

[1028] See B. xxix. c. i.

[1029] See end of B. xx.

[1030] See B. xxix. c. 3.

[1031] See B. xxix. c. 5.

[1032] See end of B. vii.

[1033] “Gestationes;” exercise on horseback, in a litter, or in a carriage drawn by horses.

[1034] See B. vii. c. 37. Apuleius gives the story at considerable length, in the Florida, B. iv.

[1035] Asia Minor. Asclepiades was a native of Prusa in Bithynia.

[1036] We adopt Sillig’s suggestion, and read “nimborum altrice,” the word “imperatrice” being evidently out of place. The climate of Italy seems to have changed very materially since his day.

[1037] See B. ii. c. 51.

[1038] See B. ix. c. 79.

[1039] “Organo.”

[1040] See B. xxiv. c. 102.

[1041] We agree with Pintianus that the name of some plant here has been lost, the word “condiendis” making no sense.

[1042] See B. xxiv. c. 102.

[1043] Some plant as fictitious as the others here mentioned.

[1044] See B xxx. c. 1.

[1045] See B. xxiv. c. 102.

[1046] See B. iii. c. 9.

[1047] In B. xxiv. c. 102.

[1048] In B. xxix. c. 5.

[1049] See B. xxi. c. 68.

[1050] See B. xx. c. 85.

[1051] “Flos visci.”

[1052] See c. 39 of this Book.

[1053] Identified by Fée with the Marchantia polymorpha of Linnæus, Common Marchantia, or Fountain liverwort, the male plant.

[1054] Identified by Fée with the Marchantia stellata, Star-headed Marchantia, or Female fountain liverwort. Desfontaines takes it to be either the Marchantia conica, or the Peltidea canina. It must be remembered that the Marchantia is not a Lichen in the modern acceptation of the word, and that our Lichens are destitute of stem. Littré identifies it with the Lecanora parella.

[1055] See B. xiii. c. 43.

[1056] See B. xxv. c. 56.

[1057] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[1058] See B. xxvii. c. 104.

[1059] See B. ix. c. 42.

[1060] See B. xxv. c. 73.

[1061] Fée remarks that none of the plants here mentioned are of any utility for the cure of scrofula.

[1062] See B. xxv. c. 50.

[1063] See B. xxv. c. 66.

[1064] See B. xxv. c. 36.

[1065] See B. xxv. c. 94.

[1066] See B. xxv. c. 19, where our author has confused the Achillea with the Sideritis; also c. 15, where he describes the Heraclion siderion. Fée identifies the Sideritis mentioned in B. xxv. c. 19, as having a square stem and leaves like those of the quercus, with the Stachys heraclea of modern botany. That mentioned in the same Chapter, as having a fetid smell, he identifies with the Phellandrium mutellina of Linnæus. The large-leaved Sideritis is, no doubt, the one mentioned as having leaves like those of the quereus. See the Note to B. xxv. c. 19.

[1067] In B. xxi. c. 83, and B. xxv. c. 119.

[1068] See B. xxv. c. 77.

[1069] Probably the Bellis perennis of Linnæus, the Common daisy. Fée remarks, that it was probably unknown to the Greeks.

[1070] See B. xxv. c. 36.

[1071] Identified by Sprengel and Desfontaines with the Saponaria vaccaria, the Perfoliate soapwort. Other commentators have suggested the Valeriana rubra, but Fée thinks that its synonym has not been hitherto discovered.

[1072] See B. xxv. c. 11.

[1073] See B. xxv. c. 27.

[1074] See B. xxv. c. 66.

[1075] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[1076] See B. xxv. c. 100.

[1077] See B. xxv. c. 64.

[1078] See B. xxii. c. 11, and B. xxv. c. 43. Our Liquorice probably, which, Fée remarks, as also figs and hyssop, has maintained its ancient reputation as a pectoral.

[1079] See B. xxv. c. 73.

[1080] See B. xxv. c. 85.

[1081] See B. xxiv. c. 85.

[1082] “Aquileges.”

[1083] See B. xxiv. c. 85.

[1084] Dried bechion, or coltsfoot, is still smoked by some persons for affections of the chest.

[1085] Generally identified with the Phlomos, or Verbascum lychnitis mentioned in B. xxv. c. 74.

[1086] “Sage.” See B. xxv. c. 73.

[1087] See B. ix. c. 43, and B. xxxii. c. 53.

[1088] See B. xxv. c. 73.

[1089] See B. xx. c. 27.

[1090] See R. xviii. c. 29. Fée observes that none of these prescriptions would be countenanced at the present day.

[1091] See B. xxv. c. 54.

[1092] See B. xxv. c. 37.

[1093] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[1094] See B. xxv. c. 90.

[1095] See B. xxv. c. 101.

[1096] See B. xxv. c. 102.

[1097] Possibly the same plant as the “Moly” of B. xxv. c. 8. If so, as Fée says, it would appear to belong to the genus Allium, or garlic.

[1098] See B. xxv. c. 84.

[1099] See B. xxv. c. 68.

[1100] See introduction to Vol. III.

[1101] See B. xii. c. 28. Fée says that none of these so-called remedies would now be recognised.

[1102] See B. xxv. c. 20.

[1103] See B. xxv. c. 92.

[1104] See B. xxv. c. 99.

[1105] See B. xxv. c. 100.

[1106] See B. xxv. c. 64.

[1107] Probably the Equisetum silvaticum of Linnæus, our Wild horse-tail. He is in error in saying that it climbs the trunks of trees; a mistake also made by Dioscorides, B. iv. c. 46, who calls it “hippuris.” It is said by some to be a strong diuretic. Littré, however, gives as its synonym the Ephedra fragilis of Linnæus.

[1108] The Geum urbanum of Linnæus, the Common avens, or herb bennet. It was probably unknown to the Greeks.

[1109] Its root has a smell like that of cloves, for which reason it is sometimes known as “Caryophyllata.”

[1110] In B. xxv. c. 48.

[1111] Sprengel identifies it with the Plumbago of B. xxv. c. 22. Fée is not of that opinion, and agrees with Matthioli in considering it to be the Aster tripolium of Linnæus, the Sea starwort. Littré gives the Statice limonium of Linnæus.

[1112] See B. xx. c. 25.

[1113] In B. xxi. c. 21.

[1114] Sprengel and Desfontaines identify it with the Amaranthus tricolor; Fée is strongly of opinion that it has not been correctly identified.

[1115] Clusius and Sprengel identify it with the Lychnis silvestris of Linnæus, the Wild lychnis or Viscous catchfly. Fée considers it to be unknown, but of the two, would prefer the Lychnis dioica of Linnæus, the White lychnis, or White campion.

[1116] C. Bauhin identifies it with the Valeriana locusta of Linnæus, Corn valerian, Corn-salad, or Lamb’s lettuce. Fée considers its identity as still unknown.

[1117] See B. xviii. c. 10.

[1118] Perhaps the same as the Limonium of B. xxv. c. 61.

[1119] See B. xxii. c. 42; one of the Sonchi, probably, which, contain a milky juice. Littré gives the Sonchus palustris of Linnæus.

[1120] See B. xxv. c. 64.

[1121] The Betonica officinalis of Linnæus.

[1122] Either the Asplenium ceterach of Linnæus, Spleenwort, Ceterach, or Miltwaste, or the A. hemionitis of Linnæus, Mule’s fern. See B. xxvii. c. 17.

[1123] See B. xxv. c. 54.

[1124] See B. xxv. c. 33.

[1125] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[1126] For the identity of this plant, see B. xxvii. c. 24.

[1127] See B. xix. c. 50, and B. xx. c 61.

[1128] See B. xxiv. c. 80

[1129] See c. 18 of this Book.

[1130] Identified with the Lavendula stœchas of Linnæus, the French lavender.

[1131] “Vas”.

[1132] In search of pheasants. See B. vi. c. 4.

[1133] See B. xxv. c. 27.

[1134] See B. xxv. c. 28.

[1135] See B. xxv. c. 73.

[1136] See B. xxv. c. 37.

[1137] See B. xxv. c. 89.

[1138] See B. xviii. c. 29.

[1139] See B. xxv. c. 84.

[1140] See B. xxv. c. 90.

[1141] See B. xxv. c. 100.

[1142] See B. xxv. c. 102.

[1143] See B. xxvii. c. 24.

[1144] See B. xxv. c. 84.

[1145] See Note 1143 above.

[1146] See B. xxvii. c. 6.

[1147] Sprengel identifies it with the Phaca Bætica, Spanish bastard vetch; but the flowers of that plant, as Fée remarks, are yellow. He considers it to be the Lathyrus tuberosus of Linnæus, the Pease earth-nut. Littré gives the Orobus sessilifolius of Sibthorp.

[1148] “Rubrum,” and not “nigrum,” which was also what we call “red” wine.

[1149] Fée is unable to identify it. The Galeopsis ladanum of Linnæus, the Red dead-nettle, has been suggested, but on insufficient grounds, probably.

[1150] See B. xii. c. 37.

[1151] It is still brought from the islands of Greece, but no longer from Arabia.

[1152] Τοξὸν.

[1153] In B. xii. c. 37.

[1154] “False-dittany,” or “bastard dittany.” See B. xxv. c. 53.

[1155] The Cytinus hypocisthis of Linnæus.

[1156] In B. xxiv. c. 28.

[1157] See B. xviii. c. 17, and B. xxii. c. 67.

[1158] See B. xiv. c. 5.

[1159] The Sium of B. xxii. c. 41.

[1160] Probably the Potamogeton natans of Linnæus, Broad-leaved pondweed, or some kindred plant. Its name signifies “the neighbour of rivers.”

[1161] C. Bauhin and Sprengel identify the plant here described with the Potamogeton pusillum of Linnæus; but Fée considers it extremely doubtful.

[1162] A species of Equisetum would seem to be meant; indeed, Littré gives the Equisetum telmateia.

[1163] See B. xxv. c. 19.

[1164] Fée thinks that this may possibly be the Statice Armeria of Linnæus, Sea thrift, or Sea gilly-flower.

[1165] Considered by Sprengel to be the Cyclaminos chamæcissos of B. xxv. c. 69, which he identifies with the Convallaria bifolia of Linnæus, the Little lily of the valley, or May lily. Fabius Columna and Brotero consider it to be the Dentaria trifolia, Three-leaved toothwort.

[1166] This is incorrect, if it is the Lily of the valley.

[1167] “Lion’s paw,” “white plant,” or “rock-spear.” Probably the Leontice leontopetalum of Linnæus, Lion’s paw, or Lion’s leaf. See B. xxvii. c. 72.

[1168] “Lymphatica somnia.”

[1169] “Hare’s foot.” Possibly the Trifolium arvense of Linnæus, Hare’s foot trefoil.

[1170] See B. xxv. c. 54.

[1171] See Introduction to Vol. III. Fée remarks that none of the assertions in the present Chapter are confirmed by modern experience.

[1172] See B. xxv. c. 38.

[1173] See B. xxv. c. 67.

[1174] See B. xxiv. cc. 49, 84, and B. xxv. c. 69.

[1175] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[1176] Identical with the Orobanche of B. xviii. c. 44, the Cuscuta Europæa of Linnæus, Dodder, Hell-weed, or Devil’s guts; or else the Cuscuta minor, or epithymum of Linnæus. See also B. xxii. cc. 78, 80.

[1177] He is in error here.

[1178] Hardouin suggests “hypopheos,” as “springing up under the Pheos” or Stœbe, mentioned in B. xxii. c. 13.

[1179] See B. xxi. c. 19.

[1180] It has a root originally, but the root withers as soon as it has attached itself to the stem of the plant to which it clings.

[1181] See B. xxv. c. 37. Holland says, on the contrary, that it is a binding plant.

[1182] “Thick hair.” It is generally identified with the Leonurus marrubiastrum of Linnæus. Columna makes it to be the Scabiosa succisa of Linnæus, the Devil’s bit scabious, and Brunsfeld the Angelica silvestris of Linnæus, Wild angelica.

[1183] See B. xxi. c. 60.

[1184] See B. xxv. c. 98.

[1185] “Many-footed.” The Polypodium vulgare of Linnæus, the Common polypody.

[1186] It is for this reason that it is called “reglisse,” or “liquorice,” in some parts of France. It contains a proportion of saccharine matter, which acts as a purgative.

[1187] “Pulticula.”

[1188] This fancy is solely based on the accidental resemblance of the name.

[1189] He very incorrectly says this of all the ferns. See B. xxvii. cc. 17, 48, and 55.

[1190] The produce of the Convolvulus scammonia of Linnæus, the Scammony bind-weed. The scammony of Aleppo is held in the highest esteem, and is very valuable. That of Smyrna also is largely imported.

[1191] See the following Chapters.

[1192] This assertion is erroneous; it has all its properties in fall vigour immediately after extraction, and retains them for an indefinite period.

[1193] “Herba lactaria.”

[1194] Because goats are fond of it. See B. xx. c. 24.

[1195] Known to us by the general name of Euphorbia of Spurge.

[1196] The Euphorbia characias of Linnæus, Red spurge. An oil is still extracted from the seed of several species of Euphorbia, as a purgative; but they are in general highly dangerous, taken internally.

[1197] “Catapotia.”

[1198] “Aphronitrum.” See B. xxx. c. 46

[1199] The Euphorbia myrsinites of Linnæus.

[1200] From the Greek κάρυον, a “nut.”

[1201] “Sea-shore” tithymalus. See B. xx. c. 80.

[1202] The Euphorbia paralias of Linnæus, Sea spurge.

[1203] The Euphorbia helioscopia of Linnæus, Sun spurge or Wart-wort.

[1204] “Sun-watching.”

[1205] See B. xx. c. 81.

[1206] Fée says that this is more than doubtful.

[1207] An assertion, Fée says, not confirmed by modern observation.

[1208] The Euphorbia cyparissias of Linnæus, the Cypress spurge, or else the Euphorbia Aleppica of Linnæus.

[1209] “Broad-leaved,” “clustered,” and “almond-like.” It is the Euphorbia platyphyllos of Linnæus, the Broad-leaved spurge.

[1210] “Tree-like”

[1211] “Small-leaved.” The Euphorbia dendroides of Linnæus, the Shrubby spurge.

[1212] See c. 39 above.

[1213] “Wild radish.” Identified with the Euphorbia apios of Linnæus, a plant with dangerous properties.

[1214] See B. xxv. c. 11, _et seq._