Latin Texts & Translations

Anise, ^[Note] too, one of the comparatively small number of plants that have been commended by Pythagoras, is taken in wine, either raw or boiled, for the stings of scorpions. Both green and dried, it is held in high repute, as an ingredient in all seasonings and sauces, and we find it placed beneath the under-crust of bread. ^[Note] Pat with bitter-almonds into the cloth strainers ^[Note] for filtering wine, it imparts an agreeable flavour to the wine: it has the effect, also, of sweetening the breath, and removing all bad odours from the mouth, it chewed in the morning with smyrnion ^[Note] and a little honey, the mouth being then rinsed with wine.

This plant imparts a youthful look ^[Note] to the features; and if

suspended to the pillow, so as to be smelt by a person when asleep, it will prevent all disagreeable dreams. It has the effect of promoting the appetite, also—for this, too, has been made by luxury one of the objects of art, ever since labour has ceased to stimulate it. It is for these various reasons that it has received the name of "anicetum," ^[Note] given to it by some.