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

Chapter 291: CHAP. 61. (10.)—APHRODISIACS AND ANTAPHRODISIACS.

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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. 61. (10.)—APHRODISIACS AND ANTAPHRODISIACS.

Nymphæa heraclia, used as already stated,1309 acts most powerfully as an antaphrodisiac; the same too if taken once every forty days in drink. Taken in drink fasting, or eaten with the food, it effectually prevents the recurrence of libidinous dreams. The root too, used in the form of a liniment and applied to the generative organs, not only represses all prurient desires, but arrests the seminal secretions as well; for which reason, it is said to have a tendency to make flesh and to improve the voice.1310

The upper part of the root of xiphion,1311 taken in wine, acts as an aphrodisiac. The same is the case too with the wild crethmos,1312 or agrios as it is called, and with horminum,1313 beaten up with polenta.1314