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

Chapter 400: CHAP. 76.—THE LIMEUM: ONE REMEDY.

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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. 76.—THE LIMEUM: ONE REMEDY.

Limeum 1928 is the name given by the Gauls to a plant, in a preparation of which, known to them as “deer’s 1929 poison,” they dip their arrows 1930 when hunting. To three modii of salivating mixture 1931 they put as much of the plant as is used for poisoning a single arrow; and a mess of it is passed down the throat, in cases where oxen are suffering from disease, due care being taken to keep them fastened to the manger till they have been purged, as they are generally rendered frantic by the dose. In case perspiration supervenes, they are drenched all over with cold water.