The Natural History of Pliny, Volume 5 (of 6)

Chapter 107: CHAP. 105.—THE STRATIOTES: FIVE REMEDIES.

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This volume catalogs remedies derived from forest trees and wild plants, presenting systematic entries for dozens of species with prescribed treatments and applications. It enumerates specific uses for resins, barks, leaves, berries, and sap, and gives instructions on preparation, dosage, and testing of potency. The text also records variations among species, regional observations on growth and harvesting, and anecdotes on how certain plants were discovered or associated with animals and human practices. Overall it functions as a practical herbal compendium combining botanical description with medicinal recipes and empirical notes.

CHAP. 105.—THE STRATIOTES: FIVE REMEDIES.

The Greeks speak in high terms also of the stratiotes,420 though that is a plant which grows in Egypt only, and during the inundations of the river Nilus. It is similar in appearance to the aizoön,421 except that the leaves are larger. It is of a remarkably cooling nature, and, applied with vinegar, it heals wounds, as well as erysipelas and suppurations. Taken in drink with male frankincense, it is marvellously useful for discharges of blood from the kidneys.