Trochisci Alipta Moschata
The Surgeon’s Musked Troches

Tradition:

Western, Unani

Source / Author:

Nicholas Praepositus

Herb Name Hypocistus Liquid Storax Benzoin Aloeswood Ambergris Camphor Musk

Latin Cytinus hypocystis Styrax officinalis Styrax benzoin Aquillaria agallocha Abre gris Camphora Moschus Amount 3 oz. 1 1⁄2 oz. 1 oz. 2 drams 1 dram 1⁄2 dram 1⁄2 scruple

Preparation:

In the Dog Days (heat of Summer), blend the gums with Rose water or a little Almond oil until soft, then add the remaining in powder, and form into Troches.

Function:

Strengthens the Heart and Spirit, clears Phlegm and Damp, revives the Brain and Senses, Resists Poison

Use:

1. Epilepsy
2. Apoplexy
3. Vertigo
4. Lethargy
5. Migraine
6. Asthma (especially in children)
7. Cough with thick Phlegm and chest tightness
8. Fainting
9. also to preserve from infection during Epidemics

Dose:

6–8 grains for a child; up to 1 scruple for an adult in Water or Wine.
They were also carried in little bags to smell to prevent infection during epidemics. Such bags can be worn around the neck. For the same purpose, they were also burned as incense.

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

1. Early versions did not contain Benzoin and reduced the amount of Aloeswood.

Alipta is a surgeon. These were primarily used by Surgeons.
Commonly added to larger formulas: “enters into the most precious medicines and electorates”
See also Gallia Muscata.
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