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

Chapter 372: CHAP. 48.—THE DRYOPTERIS: TWO 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. 48.—THE DRYOPTERIS: TWO REMEDIES.

The dryopteris,1861 which resembles fern in appearance, is found growing upon trees; the leaves are of a somewhat sweetish 1862 flavour and marked with slight indentations, and the root is hairy. This plant is possessed of caustic properties,1863 and hence the root is pounded and used as a depilatory. In using it the skin is rubbed with it till perspiration is excited, the operation being repeated a second and a third time, care being taken not to remove the perspiration.