Pulvis contra Abortum
Powder Against Abortion

Tradition:

Western

Source / Author:

Royal Pharmacopoeia of France, Charras, 1678

Herb Name Pearl Narwhal (‘Unicorn’) horn Ivory shavings White Amber Red Coral Mastic Plantain seed Kermes Red Sandalwood Sealed Earth Tormentil Mace Clove Gold leaves

Latin Margarita Monodon Eboris Succinum Corallum rubrum Pistacia lentiscus Plantago majus Coccus illicis Pterocarpus santalinus Terra Sigillata Potentilla tormentilla Myristica fragrans Eugenia caryophyllus Aurum Amount 1⁄2 oz. ea. 1 dram 1 scruple 6

Preparation:

Powder

Function:

Clears Heat, Astringes, Strengthens

Use:

1. Threatened Miscarriage from Heat
2. Fetal Restlessness
3. Bleeding During Pregnancy from Heat
4. Stomach weakness with Diarrhea

Dose:

1–2 scruples

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

The Narwhal horn and Ivory could be ommitted.

‘This powder is given to strengthen the Infant in the Womb, and to prevent Women from crying out [giving birth] before their time’.
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