BOOK XXIV. cxx. 187-188 



intestines, seeing that the steam also from the 

 decoction is of the highest vakie ; a decoction of 

 fenugreek, too, removes offensive smells of the arm- 

 pits. The meal with wine and soda quickly removes 

 scurf and dandruff on the head. A decoction too of 

 the meal in hydromel, mixed with axle-grease, cures 

 complaints of the genitals, Ukewise superficial abs- 

 cesses, parotid tumours, gouty affections of feet or 

 hands, affections of the joints and the receding of 

 flesh from the bones ; but the meal is kneaded in 

 vinegar for dislocations. A decoction of the meal in 

 vinegar and honey only is used as a Hniment for 

 splenic trouble. Kneaded in wine it cleanses can- 

 cerous sores ; if honey is afterwards added a complete 

 cure is effected. A gruel also of this mcal is taken 

 for ulceration of the chest and for chronic cough. It 

 is boiled down for a long time until the bitterness 

 disappears ; afterwards honey is added. I shall now 

 proceed to the pecuHar glory of plants. 



133 



