Antidote Proven for Diverse Diseases

Tradition:

Western, Unani

Source / Author:

Nicholas Alexandrinus (Medici Graeci, 1541)

Herb Name Amber Musk Storax Galbanum Opopanax Laser Myrrh Castoreum Bitumen Judaicum Dragon’s Blood Veratrum Veronica Horse Spleen Mole Heart * Petroleum Oil ** Honey

Latin Succinum Moschus Styrax officinalis Ferula gummosa Commiphora guidottii Silphium spp. Commiphora molmol Castoreum Bitumen Judaicum Daemonorops draco Veratrum album Veronica officinalis Splenis Equi Cordis Talpini Petroleum Mel Amount 30 drams sufficient

* Hare Heart is used similarly in Tibetan Medicine
** The source text lists Petrolei (lit. Rock + oil) which usually refers to crude oil. It may also refer to a liquid bitumen.

Preparation:

Powder, and mix with Honey to form an Electuary

Function:

Moves the Blood, clears Melancholy, regulates the Mind

Use:

1. Mania
2. Epilepsy
3. Lunatic
4. a love for Solitude
5. Fearful

Dose:

2 drams with warm water if hot, otherwise with wine

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

1. Asafetida can replace the Laser gum.

This is an unusual and interesting formula, containing a number of potent medicines not usually found together. The identification of Petrolei is uncertain; it is unlikely to be crude oil, it may be a type of liquid bitumen. The Spleen and Heart are unusual but the use of Mole Heart in the formula is reminiscent of the use of Rabbit Heart in Tibetan Medicine.
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