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

Chapter 344: CHAP. 20.—ASCYRON AND ASCYROÏDES: THREE 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. 20.—ASCYRON AND ASCYROÏDES: THREE REMEDIES.

Ascyron 1778 and ascyroïdes are plants similar to one another, and to hypericon 1779 as well, except that the plant known as “ascyroïdes”1780 has larger branches, ferulaceous, red all over, and bearing small yellow heads. The seed, enclosed in small calyces, is diminutive, black, and resinous. The tops of the branches, when bruised, stain like blood; for which reason some persons have given it the name of “androsæmon.”1781 The seed is used for the cure of sciatica, being taken in doses of two drachmæ, in one sextarius of hydromel. It relaxes the bowels, and carries off bile: it is applied also to burns.