CHAP. 67.—CYCLAMINOS OR TUBER TERRÆ: TWELVE REMEDIES.
So too, the root of cyclaminos [Note] is good for injuries inflicted
by serpents of all kinds. It has leaves smaller than those of
ivy, thinner, more swarthy, destitute of angles, and covered
with whitish spots. The stem is thin and hollow, the flowers
of a purple colour, and the root large and covered with a
black rind; so much so, in fact, that it might almost be taken
for the root of rape. This plant grows in umbrageous localities, and by the people of our country is known as the "tuber
terræ." [Note] It ought to be grown in every house, if there is any
truth in the assertion that wherever it grows, noxious spells
can have no effect. This plant is also what is called an
"amulet;" and taken in wine, they say, it produces all the
symptoms and appearances of intoxication. The root is dried,
cut in pieces, like the squill, and put away for keeping. When
wanted, a decoction is made of it, of the consistency of honey.
Still, however, it has some deleterious [Note] properties; and a
pregnant woman, it is said, if she passes over the root of it,
will be sure to miscarry.
