ROSEMARY. 141 



before simples were so much out of use, the 

 apothecaries made a distilled water, a con- 

 serve, and an electuary from this plant, which 

 also produces by distillation an essential oil, 

 which was much esteemed for all affections 

 of the brain. A decoction of the leaves 

 in wine was used externally to strengthen 

 the nerves, as well as the joints and weak 

 parts of paralytic members. 



Arnaldus de Villa Nova states, that he has 

 often seen cancers, gangrenes, and fistulas 

 dried up and perfectly cured, though they 

 would yield to no other medicine, by fre- 

 quently washing them with an infusion of 

 rosemary in spirit of wine. 



Dr. James says, " Rosemary is a plant of 

 great service in affections of the head and 

 nerves, helping the apoplexy, palsy, and all 

 kinds of convulsions, pains, and dizziness of 

 the head. It strengthens the sight and me- 

 mory, and opens obstructions of the liver and 

 spleen. The dried herb burnt is good to 

 sweeten the air, and correct noxious and 

 disagreeable smells. 



