CHAP. 16.—SPONDYLIUM: SEVENTEEN REMEDIES.
At the same time we have also spoken [Note] of spondylium; an
infusion of which is poured upon the head in cases of phrenitis
and lethargy, and of head-ache of long standing. Combined
with old oil, it is taken in drink for affections of the liver,
jaundice, epilepsy, hardness of breathing, and hysterical
suffocations, maladies for which it is equally serviceable in the
shape of a fumigation. It relaxes the bowels, and with rue it
is applied to ulcers of a serpiginous nature. The juice which
is extracted from the blossom is a most useful injection for
suppurations of the ears; but the moment it is extracted it
should be covered up, as flies and other insects of a similar
nature are remarkably fond of it.
Scrapings of the root, introduced into the interior of fistulas,
have a caustic effect upon their callosities; and they are some-
times used, in combination with the juice, as an injection for
the ears. The root itself also is prescribed for jaundice, and
for diseases of the liver and uterus. If the head is rubbed
with the juice, it will make the hair curl. [Note]
