CHAP. 39.—THE ERICA; ONE REMEDY.
The Greeks give the name of “erice,”173 to a shrub that is but little different from the myrice.174 It has the colour, and very nearly the leaf, of rosemary. It neutralizes175 the venom of serpents, it is said.
About This Book
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.