Tyrocinium chymicum, or, Chymical essays acquired from the fountain of nature and manual experience

TYROCINIƲM CHYMICƲM: OR, Chymical Essays, Acquired from The Fountain of Nature, AND Manual Experience.



By John Beguinus Almoner to the most Christian King of France.

LONDON:•rinted for Thomas Passenger, at the three Bibles upon London brid••〈…〉



THE Author's Dedication,

I Dedicate, offer up, and be∣queath, This Work, such as it is, as also my self, and all that is called mine, To the only Wise GOD, Author of all Good: To whom be all Praise, Vir∣tue, and Power, ascri∣bed, for ever and ever. AMEN.




Paracelsus in his Book of Tin∣cture of Natural things, Chapter 1. saith,
FIrst, you must Learn Digestions, Distillations, Sublimations, Re∣verberations, Extractions, Solu∣tions, Coagulations, Fermentations, and Fixations; and you must also know what Instruments are required for use in this Work; as Glasses, Cu∣curbits, Circulatory Vessels, Vessels of Hermes, Earthen Vessels, Balneums, Wind Fornaces, Fornaces of Reverbe∣ration, and other such like: as also a Marble, Mortars, Coals, &c. So may you at length proceed in the Work of Alchimy, and Medicine.


But as long as you shall by Phanta∣sie and Opinion adhere to feigned Books, you will be apt for, and Prede∣stinated to none of these.

Epigramma Authoris ad Benevolum Lectorem.
Quisquis es, O Lector, nostro tu parce Labori,
Quae sunt dicta modo, dicta sucre prius:
Et quaecun{que} meo parvo sunt scripta Libello,
Ut mea, non measunt, sic tua, non tua sunt.

Whoever you are, O Reader, you spare our labor,
What has just been said, was said before:
And each one is written in my little Book,
As they are mine, they are not mine, so they are yours, not yours.


TO THE READER.
IT becomes every man, about to transcribe, or render the Works of another in his own na∣tive Tongue, neither to add any thing of his own, nor to omit of the Author's; least in so doing, he should maim the same by abstracting, or render them monstrous by impertinent additions. Wherefore, avoiding these extreams, I offer this Little work, (not gorgeously adorned with paint∣ings of Rhetorick, but plainly cloathed in an En∣glish Habit) to the Searchers into the wondrous Mysterys of Nature, by them to be viewed, and reviewed, to be approved, or condemned (if any thing herein may justly be censured) as they shall think fit. Yet, I would not have any Man to perswade himself, that I present This Tyrocini∣um as a Guide to the most Experienced, but ra∣ther as a necessary auxiliary to Pupils, and such as are desirous to enter upon the Praxis of this Laudable Science, but hitherto, perhaps for want of Expert knowledge of the Latin Tongue, or ra∣ther not finding experienced Masters, could not

understand how, or where to begin. For such only, this Book was written by the Author, and to the same end it is now translated. Therefore if you find benefit by the perusal hereof, extol not the Author, nor commend the Translator, but praise God, who is the Giver of all good Gifts, and by whom all Sciences were communicated to the Children of Adam.


The most Material ERRATA's are thus Corrected.
PAge 2. line 27. for sow, read snow. l. 35. for Philosophicks, r. Philosophick. p. 7. l. 2. for Antimony, r. Anatomy. l. 16. for to boiled, r. to be boiled. p. 8. l. 12. for forced r. feared. p. 30. l. 20. for Cinnen Cloath, r. Linnen Cloath. p. 47. l. 18. for endu∣ring, r. inducing. p. 57. l. 22. for by gradually, r. gradually. p. 70. l. 23. for Tincture, r. the Tincture. p. 72. l. 12. for upon Oil, r. upon the Oil. p. 75. l. 16. for Oriental Saffron ʒss. r. Oriental Saffron, ʒj. ss. l. 18. for Coltsfoot, r. Asarabacca. p. 88. l. 5. for Crocus Martis Stellate, r. Regulus Martis Stellate. p. 95. l. 18. for Sols, r. Sol. p. 109. l. 22. for Calcine in a Crucible, r. Calcine it in, &c. p. 129. l. 19. for And much Coct, r. And as much Coct.


Page 1

TYROCINIƲM CHYMICƲM, In three Books.



BOOK I.



CHAP. I. Touching the definition of Alchymy.
CHymistry is the Art of dissolving na∣tural mixed bodies,* and of coagulating the same when dissolved, and of reducing them into salubrious, safe, and grateful Medicaments.

Chymia is a Greek word;* the Latines ren∣der it an Art making Liquor, or dissolving things solid into Liquor: it is likewise called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, because Chymistry teacheth to dissolve (that which is most difficult) and to coagulate.

If any one call it Alchimy, He, in the Arabian manner declares the excellency thereof.

Page 2
If the Spagyrick Art, he shews its principal Of∣fices, viz.〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉; that is to say, Conjunction and Separation.

If the Hermetick Art, he demonstrates its Au∣thor, and Antiquity.

If the Distillatory Science, he shews its Autho∣rity and Function.

But since all Disciplines are either Theorical, or Practical; Chymistry not acquiescing in the know∣ledge and contemplation of mixt bodies, as a natu∣ral Science; but having regard 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 (that is) to the work or business, viz. to Magisterys, Tinctures, Quintessences, and such like; unto it, is worthily granted a place among practical Arts and Disciplines: although happily some may be found, who, being contented with the Theory only, accidentally, either for want of sutable Masters, or impeded by other more weighty businesses, apply not themselves to the most plea∣sant labours in the practical part thereof requi∣red.

Object. The Objection of this Art is, that the body is mixt and concrete; but wherein it is move∣able is not inspected, for this is the part of natural consideration, viz. to observe how far a body is d•ssolvable and coagulable. Bodies are eitheir im∣perfectly mixt, as Dew, Hail, Sow; or perfectly mixt, as Plants, Fruits, Metals, Stones, Trees, and Animals of every kind. Whence it is mani∣fest, how egregiously they are deceived, who, hear∣ing the name of an Alchymist, presently conclude, that Man imploys himself in nothing else, than the transmutation or Metamorphosing of Metals, and meditates on no other thing than the wonderful Mystery of the Philosophicks Stone; Whereas,

Page 3
The intention of this Artist, is to prepare most sweet, most wholsome, and most safe Medicaments. And herein it is that our Art is distinguished from the vulgar Pharmacopaea, which also confects Medi∣cines, safe indeed, and wholsome, but less grateful to the diseased. For as to sweetness, or pleasure in taking, it must needs be granted,* that the sick will sooner take Con∣serve of Roses, with which 4 grains of Mercury, working by seidge, only are commixed, than many drams of Diacatholicon: and will more willingly take one only of the blessed Pills of Quercetanus, or two Pills of his Panchyma∣gogon Electuary, than 10, or 15, without them, of gilded and fetid Pills, or four grains of Mineral Bezoar, of the most famous Dr. Hartmannus, or eight grains of Diaphoretick Antimony of Crollius, than any other Sudorifick potion: And much ra∣ther a little of the Cream or Magistery of Tartar, than an agonistick draught of Apozeme or Syrup of any Magistrale, laboriously confected according to a description of I know not how many foot long.

Yet in a sense the Potions and Vessels of vulgar Medicaments, do in odour far exceed the Chymi∣cal; namely, when the Sick, only hearing of them before they take then in their hands, with the nause∣ous imagination of their taste and odour, being not provoked with any magnetick force, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, purge upward, and downward, which hitherto by Chymical Medicaments could not be perform∣ed.

They say, Spagyrick Artificers glory in the sweetness of their Remedies, but Medicines pre∣pared
Page 4
in the shops of Apothecarys, have obtained the praise of salubrity and safeness of Curation. For, say they, your Remedies are not more whole∣some and more safe than ours, being not enough sa∣lubrious or safe: since yours for the most part are venomous and plainly repugnant to humane Na∣ture, as being Metallick and taken from Minerals; and generally are more sharp, more corrosive, and more hot than is convenient, and also very strong∣ly smell of the fire. These indeed are forcible weapons, and are ready to cast down the strong-hold of Chymists, if they be not dexterously ener∣vated with the Buckler of Reason and Experience. It can scarcely be denyed, but that most of our Me∣dicines are taken from out of the family of Minerals and Metals. But if the Ancient and famous Physicians did not only use them,* but crude and unprepared, as in the prescriptions of Galen, Dioscorides, and in the Anti∣dotory of Nicholas of Myrepsicum, and others is to this day to be seen, and some most famous Physici∣ans of late time, as Rondeletius used crude Mercury in P•lls of Barbarossa, for expelling the Neapolitan disease: Crato the most fortunate Physician of three Cesars used Cinnabar, for removing the Vertigo; and others have used Antimony, as Cardanus, Julius, A∣lexandrinus and Mathiolus: Vitriol was used by Gesnerus, Crocus Martis for the Jaundies, by Fallo∣pius; and for all affects of the Lights, Sulphur hath generally been by them used: Why then should it not be lawful for us to transfer the same things rightly prepared, and perfectly freed from all ve∣nomous malignity to medicinall use? especially
Page 5
since we have seen those, who, with vulgar Medi¦caments of the Apothecarys, could not recover a perfect state of Health; yet at the perswasion of the same Misochymists have removed themselves to Metallick Baths, or Mineral fountains through the continued use of which, they have been perfectly cured. Whence we indeed may rightly conje∣cture, that in Minerals and Metallicks of this kind, there are concluded a certain fixed Balsom, and most potent Spirits, not obnoxious to corruption. The same also in the use of Chyrurgical Medica∣ments is conspicuous; for of their Remedys is scarce any of great virtue, unless with it some Metal o• Mineral be commixed. But far be it, that the same crude & unprepared (according to the Custom of the Ancient, and some of the Physicians of late times) should be by us thought fit to be re∣received inwardly into the body.

The profitable must be separated from the unprofitable;* the ve∣nom from the salutary Mummy; and the Kernel and Marrow uncased from Rindes, Shells, Husks, and Feces. So at length from thence may Remedies be taken apt for the Cure of most deplorable diseases, quickly, safely, and pleasantly, if they be adhibited by learned, ex∣pert, and circumspect Physicians, and according to the prescribed Rules of Therapeia. The Viper, a beast most venomous, being rightly prepared, is the Basis of Treacle, that universal Alexipharmacon, approved by the Experience of so many Ages. So we see daily, that from vulgar Serpents, they now commonly prepare a most certain preventionary and curative Medicine against venoms of every
Page 6
kind. Likewise the Sea-Dragon, which the French call Lavive, hath in his back a Bone, which being taken out, thence is made a most delicate food. In the same manner also things dug out of the Earth, may plainly be reduced to that Nature of Mediocrity, the whole being resolved into distinct parts, and the malignant and mortiferous qualities removed; that most certainly, those, who rightly use such, legitimately prepared, admit not a mortal enemy, but a friendly Guest, not a poysonous ve∣nome, but an Alexapharmacon, and Antidote against all diseases into the penetrales of their life. For if the venemosity of Metals and Minerals depend up∣on their form; who sees not, if these by Chymical Artifice be resolved into their three principles, that their deadly and destructive qualities are re∣moved? And if you shall conceive the malignity to be established in any of the undivided parts, you will so much the easier understand, that when the whole is divided into parts, that may be segrega∣ted. And in this manner is the correction of mor∣tiferous medicaments; which, how safe, and salu∣brious it is, might be proved by infinite Examples, if we thought it were not sufficiently known al∣ready.

Let therefore Misochymists forbear to abhor the use of Minerals and Metals, to be exhibited inter∣nally into the humane body; and unadvisedly to fear I know not what, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, thence to proceed; but let them rather learn of Chymists the true way of subduing the malignity of Reme∣dies, which venerable Antiquity used (as Anti∣mony, Mercury, both kinds of Hellebore, all the Species of Tithymalus, Pytyusa, Elaterium, Coloquin∣tida, Euphorbium, Thapsia, Seammony, Thymelaea, the
Page 7
Lazure and Armenian Stone, Scoria of Brass, Sanda∣rack, &c.) which is done by the Antimony of the heterogeneal body, into its proper parts; but not by the wonted addition of Mastick, Dragacanth, Spike, Cinnamon, or such like. For he that en∣deavours so to dissipate, and infringe the venomous qualities of Simples, is not unlike to foolish and ignorant Cooks, who, when Carps are to be scaled, and boweled, contend that if the choler or bag of the gall shall happen to be broke, it is not to be washed out, or segregated, but with Honey or Su∣gar to be corrected, and its evil savour so remo∣ved: or if they be to prepare the intestines of Ani∣mals for mans food, shall foolishly judge that the sordid and filthy excrements are not to be washed away, but that they are to boiled as they are, with the addition of Amber, or odoriferous Oils poured upon them.

Spagyrick Remedies seem not to be wholesome and safe, because they are sharp and corrosive, and by the violence of fire rendred more Costick, and because they smell of the fire: but if they be (or while they are) sharp and corrosive, they are not to be received into the body. Good GOD! how great a quantity of Medicaments ought to be cast out from the vulgar Pharmacopoly's? How great is the number of them to be expunged from their An∣tidotary's? And how many Condiments are to be removed from their Kitchins? Cantharides by Galen are numbred among dangerous Medicines, which by erosion kill; and they are to be but sparingly taken; and unto these he grants it is behoveful they should be commixed, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and with D•ureticks instead of a Vehicle. How cor∣rosive Vitriol is, is palpably known to all; and not∣withstanding
Page 8
into Treacle the most commendable Antidote, it is received. Garlick, Onions, Si∣nape, and Nasturcium, how sharp are these? yet are we not affraid daily to use them in our Ban∣quets.

The juices of Lemmons and Citrons dissove the most firm bodies of Pearls and Corrals; yet in the Cardiack passion, and in extream imbecility, and decay of strength, a more ready and excellent re∣medy, is not vulgarly given. Therefore the Acri∣mony and Costick force of Chymical Remedies is not to be forced, especially, since many are out∣wardly corroding, which inwardly cannot exercise their force, not only by reason of greater repugnan∣cy of the intestines, and the vegetate strength of the native heat; but also by reason of the noxious hu∣mors residing in the Stomach. As we devour not whole handfuls of Salt, nor use we certain pounds of it in broths, but, it may be, we dissolve of it one pugil; and a little Vinegar and Spice we are wont to use for seasoning our meats; so when necessity compels, spagyrick Physicians to the using of sharp Medicaments, they exhibit some drops, or one grain or two, not alone, but mixed with appropri∣ate Liquors. Yea, the most sharp may be so well odulcorated, as they may deposite all their acri∣mony;* which in Aqua fortis, and Aqua Regis is clearly evinced, if with them Salt of Tartar be commixed.

Now as touching the Contagion of fire, which is by them objected, it is a thing so vain and frivo∣lous, as needs no refutation. Galen himself in the 18. Chap. de Theriaca ad Pisonem, expresly writeth,
Page 9
that the fire doth meliorate many things, and sometimes discovers the hidden nature of things, and some things also it renders apt for use, ac∣cording to our intention. Whence also the same Element by Cicero, is not undeservedly honoured with the Title of Master of Arts, likewise Galen subjects sharp and biting Minerals to the Examen of fire, that they may be rendred more gentle. He esteems*Chalcitis burnt, better than not burnt. Balanus Myrepsica, ac∣cording to Mesue, provokes vomiting, and also cau∣seth dejections by the inferiour parts; but being burnt, and the nauseous humidity thereof removed, the only force of expelling humours by Seidge re∣mains. So sublimate Mercury, which is most sharp, abiding the violence of fire with Antimony, is re∣duced to a most gentle, and most wholsome Al∣exipharmacon. Likewise Iron, when calcined into Crocus Martis, with fire of reverberation sustaineth the extreamest heat of flames, yet they on it impress no acrimony to hinder the use thereof from being most profitable, as it is most frequent in Haemor∣rhagia's, and other Fluxes. On the contrary, how great sharpness do the Water and Oil of Cinnamon acquire in a Balneum of vapour only? And in the same, how much is Wine made more acid? Whence is this? Can you understand the Reason? You may, if you can comprehend why the Sun hardens clay, and softens wax; and the same makes lin∣nen white,* but blackens the face. You are there∣fore deceived, if you think Spirit of Vitriol con∣tracts
Page 10
acrimony from external heat: and so if you judge that Oil of Salt from the fire of Reverberati∣on is infected with the same; for if Salts were not insited and mixed in these, you by the greatest vio∣lence of fire, could never be able to inure such a sharpness. And contrarywise, should you use the most moderate heat that could be in some things, yet you shall undoubtedly render them more sharp, by reason of the force of present Salts. Moreover for the Em∣pyreuma of Chymical Medicines,* it is not of such moment, as under that name they should seem violent and dangerous to practical Physicians: for if such a thing be in∣herent in those Medicaments, it took its beginning either from a moderate or strong heat. If from that, and therefore Chymical Remedies are censu∣red for obnoxious; then can neither our Meats, or Drinks, or vulgar Medicaments be safe and whol∣some; since, in preparing them, oftentimes a greater degree of fire is required than for Spagyrick Remedies, which is manifest in the making of Beer or Ale, where the Mault is first with strong fire dryed, afterward boiled with greater. And also in some Rhenish Wines, which by reason of their wholsomness, are used by the Northern people in almost all diseases, instead of a Remedy; and yet to a true maturity, they cannot be brought, but by the benefit of Elementary fite; also in broiled fish, and smoak dryed, roasted, and boiled flesh, with many other such like. But if from this,*viz. from violent fire, yet thence cannot any thing
Page 11
of peril happen to the sick, since either with abluti∣on or digestion it may be corrected; as is seen in ashes, which water being poured on them, depo∣site the notes of their calidity received from the fire in a Lixivium. Yea, ablution often repea∣ted, renders some purging Metallicks and Mine∣rals Chymically prepared, inefficacious for exhaust∣ing depraved humours. How by decoction all things are made sweet is known, yet there seemed to be need of inducing an Ensample to prove the same. If by an Empyrenma, you shall happen thus to understand; that when either the potential heat, which is latent in the mixture, as it were un∣der coals, is produced into act by violent fire, and so freed from all impediment, exerciseth more po∣tent force; or when the heat, which therein was dispersed, is united by the benefit of fire; for this cause, neither an Empyreuma, nor too much heat is to be feared; since it is the office of a Physician rightly to use hot things of this kind, as also others [less hot] which if imprudently adhibited, may unavoidably infer detriment to the sick. But M•∣sochymists cease not to urge us grievously, whilst they pretend our Medicaments are unprofitable, because they are decay∣ed,* and take their begin∣ning from perished and corrupted mixt things, and are destitute of primogeneal humidity, as they say. Now if the bodies of mixt things be not to be dissolved, or (to use their odious terms) not to be destroyed; Why do they trouble the Harmony of that mixtion? Why do they prepare infusions, decoctions, and Syrups with violent fire? Why use they assations? Why parchings? Why distillati∣ons?
Page 12
Why Diagridium, & not Scammony whole? Why Trochus of Alhandal, & not Coloquintida it self? Why in extream imbecillity of strength, when the sick are ready to expire, presume they to nourish them with a destroyed Capon, viz. with the distilled water thereof, where certainly all the* Temperament and mixture of the whole perisheth? Is it because in this part they would imitate Nature? Who conveys not food undigested from the Stomach, nor crude, or while it is whole, for nourishing the parts; but destroyed, that is, separated from the unprofitable and more gross parts, and in the shop of the Liver reduced, as it were, to a Quintessence, they say (if you please to hear it) that if sucking Infants be purged with their Mothers Milk, having Rubarb infused in it, which is often used for health-sake; the Concord, Temperament, and Harmony of the whole Rubarb squeezed in the Mothers Milk, is given to the Chil∣dren; but will the form of this mixture passing from its own substance into another, and again translated from this into another, & suffering many mutations, remain whole and intire, and so exclude the depraved humours from out of the body? Per∣haps hence it is, that some M•sochymists abhor the use of Cheese, and also Butter, not from any natural antipathy; but because, by reason of the destroyed concord of the Milk, and the abolished form and temperament thereof, they fear these, and such like are unfit for nourishing the body. Again, while these call Chymical Reme∣dies,* dead bodies or Carcases, and affi•m them to be despoliated
Page 13
of primogeneal humidity; they partly contrary themselves, and partly speak inconsentaneous to truth. For if they be so vile and inefficacious, why do they elsewhere affirm them to act more potent∣ly, than the mediocrity of humane temperament permits? Moreover, is it not necessary, that as well Animals as Vegetables, should be deprived of that life whereby they live, that is, are nourished, grow, and encrease, that they may be rendred apt for the food, and use of man? For even the barbarous Scy∣thians, although they feed on flesh, either crude or heated by hunting with the swift coursing of Hor∣ses, yet will they not take the beasts alive into their Mouths, and tear their flesh, and eat it. So also it is expedient, that Plants, Sprouts, and Fruits should die, that they may give forth vital actions in the humane body; that is, they must be taken from their Native Soil or Root, least thence they should still attract aliment for conserving their life, that they may be made apt Remedies for conserving the health of men, and expelling their diseases. And in like manner Herbs, and other such things so morti∣fied, especially, if a legitimate preparation of them precede, happily and safely operate, if in∣wardly taken into the body. And (as by experi∣ence, the most certain Judge of Verity, I shall e∣vince) the life of Vegetables is not destroyed by Chymical Operations, nor the primogeneal humi∣dity of mixt bodies by them consumed. It is cer∣tain, and very often proved, that Salts of Herbs, especially hot, if seminated in a certain manner, as is unto us known, do produce other herbs of their own Species. Not to mention those stupendious and pertinent examples produced by Querceta∣nus, Chapter 23. In his Answer to Anony∣nius for the verity of Hermetick Medicine.
Page 14
* In Arduenna, and many other desert, barren, and dry places, that the Hus∣band-men in Summer might have somewhat to reap, they cut down their Brambles, Broom, and Bryers, which they burn on an heap, and scatter the ashes here, and there, all over the fields, that the plowed Earth by the Salt extracted from them by the benefit of the falling showers may be fatned, and afterward from Seed cast thereinto, produce good and desirable Corn. For the Salt of ashes of this kind, performs the of∣fice of dung, because fields could never be impin∣guate, unless they were strewed with the Urines and Salt of brute Animals.* Yet I will not flatly de∣ny, but that some living things, and such as are not as yet dead, may sometimes rightly be adhibited, as a Cock deplu∣mate (about the breech) for extracting the Venome from pestiferous Carbuncles. And a young whelp externally applyed to cherish a cold and weak Sto∣mach by its benign and temperate heat. In like manner I deny not, but that things whole may some∣times exceed those that are broke, dissolved, or al∣tered. Also they con∣fess themselves to use some things no less de∣stroyed,* than the Chy∣mists do. There remains now one scruple, which very much troubles the minds of many, and they have long been held in sus∣pence thereabout, so as they could not consent to the use of Hermetick Medicaments; and it is this,
Page 15
that they especially, if they be Metallick or Mine∣ral, dissipate the native heat and Spirits suddenly, and leave in the principal parts polluted Reliques, a malignant ferment, and a depraved 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 [or] disposition; whence some by accident are cured, and a little after suffering a relapse, are untimely hurried out of this life.

But Remedies Spagyrically prepared, undeser∣vedly suffer this Reproach; since if such a thing by the use of them should chance to happen, it is not so much to be imputed to the Remedies, as to the Artificers that prepared them, or to the Physicians that exhibited them. For it is very well known how great a number there are, who unworthily ap∣proach to this most noble Art, and having learned, or supposedly found the use of this Science from Books only, and not from their 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or pro∣per experience, unadvisedly prepare Stibium or Hy∣drargyry, and so prepared, are not afraid to exhibit it inwardly, either for conserving the health of Man, or for restoring the same when decayed. With such precipitates of Chymists, it is no wonder if they that use them be precipited into the Grave. If some improvident and prodigal of their own health follow after their Mercurys of life, they follow not life, but death, which they sometimes buy at a very great rate.

Then the blame of so grievous accidents, doth not seldom redound to those also who administer the said Medicaments, some of whom never saw the legitimate use of them; others of them are plainly unlearned, stupid, and ignorant of the whole method of Galen and Hyppocrates: Such are like to Jews and Patricides, whose Religion is no other than after the manner of Thieves, to sport them∣selves
Page 16
in others ruine. For like reason, the same is sometimes written of vulgar Medicines, and such as are of most potent virtues, as the Scammoneate, Helleborate, and such like; when by unskilful A∣pothecarys they are sinistrously prepared, or by the expert, dexterously consected, but by Empyricks preposterously used, although the same Medicaments may be of excellent use, if well prepared, and me∣thodically adhibited.

There is no reason therefore, that learned and prudent Physicians should abstain any longer from the use of Chymical Remedies, since, if they be confected by expert Artists (among whom in France, Nicholas Bonne is famous, the Apothecary of the most illustrious Duke of Bullion in Arce Sedanen∣si, who hath a shop compleatly furnished with most choice Remedies, as well Galenical as Spagyrical, especially Treacles, both the common and essensi∣fied, according to the Rules of Quercetanus, most exquisitely and faithfully prepared;) all malignity, if any be in their nature, is removed by the benefit of Vulcan; so as it is impossible, if they be metho∣dically used, that they should either destroy the na∣tive heat and Spirits, (the individual guards of the Soul) or infer on the principal parts a depraved disposition.

And thus hitherto is shown, how under a false pretext Chymical Remedies are as it were dange∣rous, unprofitable, and pestiferous: and so the Cities right in the Re-publique of Medicine is de∣nyed.

Now, that they are more wholsome, and more safe than the vulgar, is to be proved; which indeed by what hath been already said, is sufficiently mani∣fested;
Page 17
nevertheless, that all things may be the better judg∣ed of,* some few things to back our assertion seem to be need∣ful. Remedies prepared by the Spagyrick Art, are therefore more salubrious, and more safe than the vulgar, or the same after the common and vulgar manner prepared; because in them the pure is separated from the impure, the Alexipharmacon from the malignity, the Corporeal from the Spiritual, and the unprofitable from the commodious; and so with their bulkiness they oppress not the Stomach, nor do they delay or defer their Operations, but immediately begin to assault the Diseases, and speedily compel them to forsake their strong-holds in humane bodies. So Beer that hath sufficiently purged, is better and more wholsome, than what hath not purged. Wine cleansed from its Tartar, is more safely drunk, than Wine newly prest from the Grape. So food, the Excrements secluded by nature after many Cocti∣ons nourish all the members of our bodies. Sooner doth the water or Balsom of Cinnamon in swoun∣ings refresh the Spirits, than the Cinnamon whole. Likewise some drops of Oil of Anise are more ef∣ficacious, than whole Ounces of the same unprepa∣red. But the vulgar mind despiseth all preparati∣ons, and had rather use things whole, than dissol∣ved into their principles; wherefore he adhibits Medicines partly not sufficient or convenient; whence it often happens, that the sick having de∣voured the noxious, excrementitious, and venomous parts together, with the salubrious and profitable, the Disease being overcome, they are soon after af∣flicted with symptoms more grievous, and more dangerous than the disease it self.

Page 18
Moreover, who knows not that Chymical wa∣ters retain the intire odour, and taste of Vegetables, but the vulgar waters are no other than unprofitable phlegm, and waters easily putrefying; and those will dure many years, but these scarcely a Moneth or two. And as the vulgar waters of Pharmaco∣poly's acquire an extream malignity from the Lea∣den vessels; so their decoctions in Copper vessels are no less contaminated, which are so much the worse also, because in their preparation, the more subtile and better parts vanish into Air, and a little after, through mouldiness contracted, they are cor∣rupted and rendred unprofitable.

Also their Restoratives and Cordials, which are prepared of Corals and Pearls reduced to powder, and sifted, as also of foliate Gold; what other vir∣tue do they manifest in the humane body, than the incrusting of the Ventricle, and otherwise ren∣dring it more languished, and unapt to perform its office? Whereas, on the contrary, Quintessen∣ces of Chymists and Magisterys by them confected, as also Tinctures of Gold made without Corrosives, easily dissolved in any Liquor; these so dissolved, being admitted into the body, renew decayed strength, and restore to pristine vigour. Also vul∣gar Medicaments in Chronical diseases, seldom produce the desired effects; being only taken from Vegetables, with which they are unable totally to extirpate, and pluck up the setled Roots of con∣tumacious affects. But Chymical Remedies, espe∣cially those prepared of Metals and Minerals, being of more potent force, and of great efficacy, do throughly cure Distempers vulgarly uncureable, as the epilepsie, leprosie, quartane fever, gout, Dropsie, &c.〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is, plea∣santly,
Page 19
speedily, and safely. We therefore thought what we have done, not impertinent to our pur∣pose; namely, in the Frontise-piece of our Book, to define Chymistry, and demonstrate it to an Art of preparing the most grateful, salubrious and safe medicaments.

CHAP. II. Of Solution in Genere.
CHymical Solution is 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉,* or an Operation where∣in the natural mixt body by se∣paration of the Hetrogeneal parts, is deduced in∣to its own three Principles, viz. Mercury, Sul∣phur, and Salt, of which by Nature it was at first made.

As Aristotle of the Natural body hath truly stated three principles, viz. Matter, Form, and Privati∣on; although they be rather Noetick, than truly hypostatick, and as Galen the four Elements, viz. Fire, Air,* Water, & Earth, for principles, although they be remote, yet are they not wholly by him unproperly cited: so the Chymist, the intelligent Artificer affirms there are 3 sensible, and most near principles of sensible bodies, viz. Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt: and in this part follows Aristotle, of the third Heaven, Text 61. Which place Peter Ramus in the Acroamatick Schools, doth over strenuously oppose against the above alledged principles of the Phylosopher, and after him Kragius doth vehemently contrary
Page 20
the Peripateticks. But by Mercury,* Sulphur, and Salt, it is not to be understood that Minerals of this kind can by the benefit of Chymical resolution, be extracted from mixt and concrete bodies; I mean, such as are vulgarly sold by Merchants. Yet it sufficeth, that they are such, especially being in the family of Vegetables, and Animals, which are analogous, and have affinity with Minerals, and do so far differ among themselves in Essence, Property, and Acti∣ons as they are in their kind [more or less] Mi∣neral.

Mercury* is that Acid, per∣meable, penetrable, Aethereal, and most pure Liquor, whence is all nutrition, sense, motion, virtues, colours, and the retardation of over hasty age. It is made of the Element of Air, and Water: and indeed to the first, as far as it is altered by approaching heat, it va∣nishes into air; but as to the other, so far as it is d fficultly bounded in its own proper limits, it is easily contained in another Terminum

Sulphur* is a sweet, oleagi∣nous, and viscid Balsom, con∣serving the native heat of the parts, the instrument of all vegetation, increase, and transmutation, and the fountain, and original of all odours grateful and ingrateful. It is assimilated to fire, by reason of the flame which it easily con∣ceives, as all other resinous and oleaginous things.

And this peculiar property it hath,*viz. a power of paci∣fying and conglutinating ex∣tream contrarys.

Page 21
For as you can never make tenacious Luting of water and sand, unless with them you commix Galx, or other glutinous matter: so neither can volatile Mercury, and fixed Salt be tenaciously uni∣ted into one substance, unless by the bond and copu∣lation of Sulphur, which participates of either prin∣ciple. It contemperates the dryness of Salt, and Liquidity of Mercury, by its own viscosity; the density of Salt, and the permeability of Mercury by its own soft fluidness, and the bitterness of Salt, and sharpness of Mercury, by its own sweet∣ness.

Salt* is a dry body, saline, and defending mixt things from pu∣trefaction, is endowed with wonderful faculties of dissolving, coagulating, cleansing, and evacuating; and from it is every solidity, determination, taste, and other infinite virtues. It is analogious to the Earth; not as it is cold and dry, but as it is an Element firm, fixed, and the subject of generation of all bodies.

But the said principles, to speak properly,* are neither bo∣dies, because they are plainly Spiritual, by reason of the in∣flux of celestial Seeds, with which they are impregnated; nor Spirits, because corporeal, but they participate of either nature; and have been insignized by Phylosophers with va∣rious names, or at the least unto them they have al∣luded these, as by the following Table will ap∣pear.

Page 22
SALT. SULPHUR. MERCURY.
Common Salt. Salt-peter. Salt armoniack.
Unpleasant, & bit∣ter. Sweet. Acid.
Body. Soul. Spirit.
Matter. Form. Idea.
Patient. Agent. Informant, or mo∣vent.
Art. Nature. Intelligence
Sense. Judgment. Intellect.
Material. Spiritual. Glorious.
Moreover, every mixt body may be, and by us is resolved into these three principles (so according to the Pythagoreans, every thing, and all things are terminated in three) fixed in the sacred Ternary. Although this might be proved by weighty reasons, yet ocular and evident inspection doth far exceed all these. Therefore, by examples taken from the various kind of mixt things, we shall, for the bene∣fit of young Beginners, delucidate every thing. We will first begin with green Woods, which if you burn, there will come forth a certain Wateriness, which is plainly unapt for taking flame; and if ga∣thered when converted into fume, it is resolved ea∣sily into water (and by the same reason, to seek drink from a flame is not impossible) and this is called Mercury: then there goes forth an oleagi∣nous substance easily inflamable, which resolved in∣to vapours, if taken, will pass into Oil, and that is called Sulphur: at length a dry and terrestrial sub∣stance remains, which from the ashes, by the bene∣fit of water is extracted, and in the humid and cold it is dissolved, but in heat congealed, and it obtains the name of Salt. So Milk contains a Sulphureous
Page 23
buttery substance, then Mercurial Whey, and at length saline Cheese, or Curds. In Eggs, the White exhibits Mercury, the Yolk Sulphur, the Skins and Shells Salt. In like manner from Linseed we draw Oil by expression; Water by separation from the Oil; and Salt from the remaining feces, by extraction. By like reason from Cloves a most famous Mercurial water, a most excellent Sulphu∣reous Oil, and from the feces a Salt is extracted. So Nitre is divided into aquosity, fatness, and Salt. No otherwise of Sea Salt do we produce Mercury 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is, bitter-sweet; Sweet Chrystals plainly of a Sulphureous nature; and at length a most fixed Salt. Of Antimony a Regulus is made, which is the Mercury thereof; then a Red Sulphur conceiving flame; and at length a Salt, which is vomitive. And thus may you of all other things judge the same.

But you are chiefly to note, that none of the aforesaid prin∣ciples can be found simple,* and alone, that doth not par∣ticipate with the other. For Mercury contains a Sulphureous and saline substance; Sulphur a Salt and Mercurial substance: And Salt an oleaginous and Mercurial substance.

It is also to be observed, that in the Spagyrick 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉,* or separation of parts after so∣lution, beside the former pre∣cited three principles truly active, there are two other substances, which by Chymists are not admitted into the number of principles, because they are only as it were the Shells or Coverings of the said principles, and are destitute of all Hyppo∣cratick
Page 24
* virtue; One of which is dry, a sandy Earth or lifeless ashes, and it is called damnate Earth, and Caput-mortuum, endewed with no other virtue then, than drying and emplastick, and it is easily converted into Glass. The other is humid, and accidentally airy, viz. insipid and un∣savoury phlegm, which only moistens, without any other* Energy or Medici∣nal activity.

CHAP. III. Of Calcination.
THere are two kinds of Solution, viz. Calci∣nation and Extraction.

Calcination* is the Solution of the mixt body into a Calx.

It is defined by Geber; that pulverisation of a thing is made by fire, through privation of the humidity, consolidating the parts. By Calx Chymists understand every most subtile powder made by ablation of the superfluous humidity,* especially from Minerals. But when the powder or Calx is plainly rendred impalpable, and most subtile as to sense, like the finest Flower, then do they call it*Alcohol; the same appellation they properly give to the most subtile Spirit of wine, rectifyed by often repeated distillations; which then they call Alcohol of wine.*

Page 25
Calcination is made by Corrosion or Igniti∣on.

Corrosion is a Calcination of the body by things corrosive. This is done divers ways, but especial∣ly by four, viz. by Amalgamation, Precipitation, Stratification, and Fumigation.

Amalgamation is the corrosi∣on of a Metal by Mercury.* And this is done when a Metal filed small, or beat out into very thin plates, is com∣mixed with eight parts of Mercury, or eight times its own weight of ☿, that it may be a Mass every where like unto it (and be as one body) for dissol∣ving the unity of that Metal: for the Hydrargyry being evaporated over a fire, the Metal is left like unto a thin Calx.

Precipitation is a corrosion by strong and corrosive Wa∣ters,* and that is done when bodies are emerged in corrosive Liquor, and after∣ward being corroded or dissolved, either by ab∣straction of the Water, or some other way, they are repercussed into a Calx.

Stratification* is a corrosion by corrosive powders.

It is thus made, viz. when a crucible or other convenient Earthen vessel is fill∣ed with thin plates of Metal and corrosive powders, making S. S. S. or lay upon lay, thus; first put some of the corrosive powder in the bottom of the crucible, then lay in the thin plates of the Metallick body, upon which strew more of the powder, then again lay in more of the plates, and so go on till the vessel be full. Afterward put coals round about, or give it fire of Reverberation, encreasing
Page 26
the fire leisurely, as the matter requires. It is also called — Cementation,* of af∣finity to which is — Commix∣tion,* wherein the body to be corroded is mixed with corro∣sive powders, and by the adhibi∣tion of fire is reduced to a Calx.

Fumigation* is a corrosion of Metal by sharpe fume or va∣pour.

This is done divers ways. In general let it suf∣fice to know, that a Metallick body reduced into thin plates, and to be calcined by fume, must be suspended either over Aqua fortis, Vinegar, or the vapour of melted Lead, or Mercury, or such like sharp things; as vulgarly they are wont to prepare Ceruse.

Ignition* is calcination by fire.

And it is either Cinefaction or Reverberation.

Cinefaction* is ignition, wherein Vegetable and Animal bodies are reduced to ashes by violent fire.

Reverberation* is also igniti∣on, wherein bodys by fire of flame in a furnace of Reverbe∣ration, are calcined.

Hereunto also appertains Desiccation of the native hu∣midity,* as is wont to be in Salt, Vitriol, Allom, and such like.

Page 27
CHAP. IV. Of Extraction.
EXtraction is a kind of Reso∣lution,* wherein the more subtile parts are separated from the more gross.

And is twofold, either generally, or specially, so called:

Generally, so called, is made duplicitly, as well by ascension and descension, as by an interme∣dium.

And that is either dry or humid: the dry is Sub∣limation, the other is called distillation.

Sublimation* is an extraction of the more subtile dry parts, by fire elevated aloft, and ad∣hering to the vessel.

It is made, when the matter to be sublimed is aptly prepared, as it ought to be, viz. either by washing, or by calcination, parching, cocting, or the like; and afterward either alone, or with o∣ther matter permixt, put into an Urinal with a Spherick, or large and broad bottom, so as half part of the vessel only may be filled, and that placed in an aludel [or pan] over a furnace quite above the fire, and unto the vessel a Blind-head Luted on with good Luting, in the Head must be a hole directly over the middle of the inferior vessel, that the hu∣mid Spirits may exhale through the hole. Then must fire be gradually adhibited, and when all the humidity hath expired (which may be proved by a piece of glass, or a smooth plate of Iron, when apply∣ed
Page 28
to the hole, if not at all stained with the breath∣ing) the hole of the Alembeck closed with Luting, and the fire intended for forcing the Spirits up∣wards.

Therefore, according to Geber, Sublimation is the elevation of a dry matter by fire, with adheren∣cy to the sides of the vessel; how madly are distil∣lation and calcination confounded, and waters which are distilled, faid to be sublimed. More∣over it is observable, that this Chymical Operation is not a new invention, but it was also known to the ancients. For so Cadmia or Brass-oar was here∣tofore prepared, witness Galen, and Dioscorides; and likewise Pompholyx and Spodium, by the same testi∣mony.

Distillation* is an extraction of the humid parts, extenuate and elevate into fume by heat.

What Aristole saith, lib. 4. of Meteors; 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is, Art imitates nature, is verified in this vulgar Operation of practical Chy∣mistry. For as vapours by the Solar rays are drawn up from the Earth into the middle Region of Air, and there condensed by the coldness of that Celesti∣al Sphere, fall down again upon the Earth in show∣ers. So the Chymical Artificer, from things exhaleable and vapourable, by the ministry of fire, with separation of the thin Spirits from the more gross parts, and elevation of them unto the cold concaveness of the head, extracts their essence in form of Liquor. Likewise in the humane body* exhalations from the inferior parts are carryed upward into the Airy Region of the Micro∣cosm, as into an Alembeck, and by the coldness
Page 29
thereof, are condensed into a phlegmatick and mu∣cose Excrement, whence afterward is made a con∣tinued distillation and defluction thereof into the Nostrils, Pallate, or other parts of the body. Hence it is, that in dressing of Meats we close our Pots with covers, that what vapours are converted into water, may after exhalation be reverted into their own Original. So, when we would keep any pre∣pared meats warm, or being cold, heat them, we cover the dishes, in which they are with others; whereby the vapours arising from them by their cold, incrassate Antiperistasis, fall down again in drops.

Also Distillation, with respect to the diversity of vessels wherein it is made (not to mention many other differences) is either right or oblique. It is made by Alembeck, or per Vesicam, or else by Re∣tort, especially in things containing the more con∣tumacious spirits.

Hereto appertains Rectification and Coho∣bation.

Rectification* is a repeated distillation of Liquors, for their greater purification and exhala∣tion, yet this is also sometimes performed by Di∣gestion.

Cohobation* is a reiteration of distillations, wherein the Li∣quor distilled is reverted upon its own feces, and again thence distilled. But this is done with the feces first ground, and leisurely imbibed with the humour, that they may be mace∣rated.

Extraction generally so called, which is made by Descention, is twofold, viz. either hot or cold.

Page 30
The hot is that wherein the subtile parts are separated from the gross by descension,* with the mediation of fire. Whence it is also called distillation by descent, and is used in making of Pitch; when from the heap of Clefts of the Pitch-tree piled together, and closed from any breathing places by fire kindled within, Pitch floweth out; as is to be seen in Pliny and M•thio∣lus, who have exactly described this Operati∣on.

The cold is that, which by descent without fire makes se∣paration of the subtile parts from the gross.*

And it is either Filtration or Deliquium.

Filtration* is, when the aqueous humours by a Separa∣tory or brown-paper wrapt up round, like (or put into) a Tunnel or Hyppocrates Sleeve, Linnen Cloath, or some such thing, is strained, leaving in the filter or vessel, the more gross parts.

Deliquium* is, when impure Calxes, Salts, and such like Li∣quables, either per se are put upon a Marble or Glass Table inclined; or inclu∣ded in a bag are suspended; that moistning by the humid Air, they may let go their pure juice. Yet sometimes it so is, as per deliquium, there is no se∣paration of parts made; as when Salts purified, or such like are placed in a cold Cellar or other moist place, and by external humidity, which easily en∣ters into them, descend and fall into a subjacent ves∣sel in Liquor.

Page 31
Extraction which is made by an intermedium, is when the more pure parts of Liquids or dry things moistened, are separated from the impure without distillation and sublimation.

Of this there are three kinds, viz. Digestion, Putrefaction, and Circulation.

Digestion* is, when things with digestive heat, resembling the heat of natural digestion in the Stomach are cocted or ripened.

For as the Stomach by its own moderate heat di∣gesteth crude meats received, and by cocting trans∣mutes it into Chyle; that, the feces being seclu∣ded and thrust out into the Intestines, from that substance by the Liver an extraction of the more benign and more pure parts, may be made; so also by like temperate heat of any other thing, digestion separates the subtile from the gross; what are thick it breaks and attenuates, cocts the crude, mit•igates and edulcorates the unsavoury; and so elaborates all things, that from things digested, a more plentiful Harvest of essence is always to be expected.

The administration thereof, is Learnedly descri∣bed by Libavius in this manner. The matter to be digested is included in a vessel like unto the Sto∣mach, every where firmly closed; unless when with digestion evaporation is conjoyned, as for correcti∣on of an Empyreuma or in coagulation, and such like; for then a small hole in the cover or mouth of the vessel is left, and a just time observed, that none of the substance perish. Whether it be meer juice or Liquor, the matter is plain: but in Mi∣nutal of Herbs, and such like, either the proper juice is to be left, or some analogous humour from
Page 32
without is to be added; which notwithstanding is sometimes also in liquors of divers kinds; as when Oils are digested with Spirit of Wine, &c. where is a proneness to putrefaction, and in adding the Menstruum, care enough can hardly be taken; (for putrefaction must not be made when we would digest a thing, although digestion may be the way to it) then Salt is to be added; and the vessel so fit∣ted, must be placed in a digestory furnace of com∣petent heat, and there permitted to stand unto the desired end, which is diverse, by reason of the mul∣tiplicite use of digestion. As for example: Green Herbs moistned with their own juice, from which, by distillation their Essence is to be extracted, are macerated three days; but the dry moistned with Spirit of wine seven days. Seeds and Aromaticks half a Moneth: Roots for a Moneth if they be dry: Minerals for a philosophick moneth,* which is forty days or longer, according to firmness, and the hability of the Menstru∣um. Some are twice macerated, sprinkled with Greek-wine, as sometimes Aromaticks, which, be∣ing moistned, are digested to a dryness; afterward pulverisate, are the second time macerated by im∣bibition. So solidity and rarity also have their dif∣ference of time. Distilled Waters set in digestion to the Sun, are rectifyed in half a Moneth, the ves∣sel being firmly closed, and two parts of the vessel ful, and the third empty; and sometimes a third part of the glass is set in sand, which in cold things Artificers command to be done, but with great caution. Yet hot waters and Oils are rectifyed in cold sand, also a third part of the vessel buryed in
Page 33
it, &c. in a* moist Cellar for a moneth; likewise the other humour to be added, must be such as may help digestion without corruption of the substance.

And here if the humour be alienate, it is separa∣ted by the aforesaid hole; but if otherwise, and it be familiar, or else alterable into the nature of the digested, it •s left. In Dense thi•gs it is more sharp, and sometimes corrosive, as Vinegar, Spirit of wine, strong wine, &c. In others gentle, as distilled Rain-water, Rose-water, &c. sometimes O•l of the same kind. In the interim, what are of another Nature, and by digestion recede, are separated.

But digestion is not only accompanyed with di∣stillations or extractions, but also with rectification, coagulation, fixation, edulcoration of Calxes pre∣pared by Aqua fortis; and is called Maceration: because it also hath power of penetrating,* of opening the compactness of things, and of separating impurities.

Putrefaction* is, when a mixt body through natural putrid∣ness, by humour overcoming dryness and external heat operating more strongly than internaly, is resolved to an Essence, apt to be extracted and segregated from its hetrogeneal parts.

The way of performing it is thus: What is to be putrefied, must be duly prepared, and so put into a Cucurbit of glass, if it either be dry or abound not with humidity sufficient for putrefaction, a certain 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, [that is, a Vehicle] or Menstruum (so generally from the moneth of putrefaction, e∣very
Page 34
Liquor is called, which is used for extraction of things, if it either be of its own kind, or to it analo∣gous, or a Water) convenient must be poured on, which by its own excess may take away the dryness of the mixt body, open the mixture, draw the out∣going Essence to it self, and conserve it intire and uncorrupt, untill it be all extracted: and least the heat with its own humidity should expire, the vessel must be sealed with Hermes Seal: afterward in Horse-dung, or like heat, it must be conserved, and that heat continued to the end of the time pre∣fixed.

The property of Putrefaction* is, to change both the colours, odours, and tasts of things, and their old nature being destroy∣ed, to generate a new.

*Circulation is of a Liquor depurated from Elements in a Pelican, by various Circumvo∣lutations or Rotations, by which the impurities set∣ling downward are removed, and so it is converted or exalted to a more excellent State.

It is thus performed: The Liquor to be exalted, is included in a Pelican or Circulatory vessel, four or five parts thereof remaining empty; and so it is placed in Balneum, or Dung, as deep as the Liquor riseth within the Glass, or a little lower, so as the superiour empty parts of the vessel may stand in the cold Air; that from the bottom and the sides, an attenuation may be made by heat; but from the upper parts coagulation by cold; and so the said vessel must be kept in moderate and continued heat, •ntill the Artist come to his desired end, and the f•ces totally reside in the bottom.

Page 35
In this place it seems not improper to annex Fermentation;* although some∣times by it is not made so con∣spicuous a segregation of the sa∣lubrious, from the more gross parts; as (rather) a disposition for extracting the most noble Essence.

Yet it is the Exaltation of a thing in substance, by which, digestion mediating, the Agent heat prevails, and turns the Patient into its own Na∣ture.

Moreover, what are fermented, are either Li∣quid or Solid. What are Liquid, are such simply, as Water and Wine, or thick and soft, as honey and Sapa.

Liquids which are simply such, if they be also hot,*per se are fermented, as Wine, Perry, & Sider. But what are cold? as the exprest juices of cold things, have need of the addition of some o∣ther external, as feces of Wine, dregs of Beers or Ale, Salt, or any like acidness, for accelerating e∣bullition and fermentation. The thick and soft may be in the following manner fermented. For example: To ten pound of honey adde fifty pound of water; Let them stand in moderate heat for one day na∣tural,* then with gentle fire boil the whole, and scum it; let a third part exhale, or while the Liquor is hot put in a new-laid-egg, which, if it shall float above the Liquor, is a sign of perfect decoction, Then the Liquor removed from the fire must be strained hot through a double Cloath, and in a sutable Vessel placed in the Sun; two drams of Salt of Tartar, or common Salt being added, or ʒj of any acidity put in. And so it must
Page 36
boil or ferment for forty days or thereabout, untill the Liquor be clear, and have an odour like Wine. Then must the vessel be closed, and the Hydromel reserved in a Cellar for use.

What are solid and hard, as Seeds, Wheat, Fen∣nel, Anise, Juniper-berrys, Aromaticks, &c. must be bruised; and water be poured on them, and their proper Salt, or what is to them analogous, or some acidity or feces of Beer or Wine; so as to a hogs-head of the matter to be fermented, a pint of feces be added.

But what are most hard, as Stones, must first be calcined, and afterward fermented; as in the fol∣lowing Treatise, touching Corals and Lead, shall be spoken.

Extraction specially so call∣ed,* is when from the mixt body, the more subtile, and more no∣ble parts drawn but by any Menstruum, are extracted from the Elementary grosness remaining in the bottom; and by distilla∣tion or evaporation are coagulated to the consisten∣cy of Syrup or Sapa. It is thus made: When a matter having Tincture is infused in a convenient Menstruum, and the vessel close shut, placed in di∣gestion: Afterward the coloured Menstruum, by in∣clination separated; and other fresh Menstruum poured on, and the vessel closed, again set to digest, and the same labour so oft repeated, as till the Menstruum be no more tinged. Then are all the e∣vacuations filtred, circulated, and coagulated with the Menstruum, to an oleaginous consistency, or else sometimes to a dryness, according to the na∣ture of the matter, or as the intended use shall re∣quire.

Page 37
CHAP. V. Of Coagulation.
HEtherto we have spoke of Solution, and its Species, now follows Coagulation.

Coagulation* is another of the principal Operations of the Spa∣gyrick Science; wherein soft and Liquid things are forced by privation of humi∣dity, from a thin and fluid consistency into a solid.

This, although it almost inseparably adhere to the Species of Solution, as Precipitation, Amalga∣mation, Sublimation, Distillation, &c. Yet is it peculiarly.

First, by exhalation, wherein the humour expi∣res from the coagulable matter.

Secondly, by decoction, wherein Liquid things are cocted to a certain solid consistency.

Thirdly, by Congelation, as in Cellars, when Chrystals by cold are produced.

Fourthly, by Fixation, wherein things volatile and flying the fire, are taught by use to remain fixed therein; which is done either by addition of a fix∣ed Medicine, or by mixtures or sublimations, Cements, and such like, according to the nature of the matter.

Page 38
CHAP. VI. Of Lutation.
NOw for order sake, it is expedient we should speak of Furnaces, Vessels, and various Chy∣mical Uutensils, as also their divers Regimens of fire. But these are rather learned by ocular inspe∣ction, than by precepts and rules. Therefore for brevity sake, we shall omit them, and only speak a few things touching the Lutaments and Conglutina∣tion of Sapient Artificers.

For building Furnaces.
Take fat Earth, of what colour soever it be, and mix, and work it together with sand, Horse-dung, and Salt-water.

For Coating Retorts.
(Although I am not wont to Coat either Glass or Earthen Retorts, whether I distill by sand, or by a naked fire, or by a close Reverberatory, or by fire of suppression.) Take Potters-clay, Horse-dung washt and dry'd, flour of Tiles, and Scales of Iron, mix, and work these strongly together with com∣mon water.

Luting of Sapience for closing in the most Subtile Spirits.
Make Luting of Calx-vive, and the white of Eggs reduced to water, and speedily apply the same, be∣cause it easily drys.

Page 39
For consolidating crackt and broken Glasses.
Take Bole-armenack, Minium, Ceruse, of each equal parts, reduce them to a most subtile powder, and temper it with Linseed Oil, or liquid Var∣nish.

For Luting Glasses together.
I unto this day have with good success used Hoggs or Ox-bladders, for luting an Alembeck with its Cucurbit, as well in distillation of waters, as of sharp and penetrating Spirits.

For Luting the nose of the Alembeck with the Recipient.
Take of Wax ℥j. Rosin, Colophony, of each ℥j. melt them together in an earthen pan; unto these adde a little Oil Olive, stirring them with a stick, that the whole may be incorparated; then remo∣ving the pan from the fire, work the whole well together with your hands.

For Luting Retorts with their Receivers, in di∣stillation of sharp Spirits.
The Luting for coating Retorts work together with Salt water, or mix it with Colophony pulve∣risate, and apply it moist.

The End of the First Book.

Page 41

TYROCINIƲM CHYMICƲM: OR, CHYMICAL ESSAYS.
Book the Second.



THe former Book treats of Solution and Coagu∣lation in general;* now in the following Books we intend to treat of the effects of these Operati∣ons. Although in Specie, how the compactness of all mixt bodies are to be opened, ought to be de∣clared; the same we should have endeavoured to perform, had we undertaken to write an entire Sy∣stem, and not a Tyrocinium of Chymistry. There are effects, or, as by some they are called, Chymical Species of Solution and Coagulation, which are ei∣ther liquid, or soft, or hard. To the liquid may be referr'd, the various kinds of Aqua fortis, Spirits, Vinegar, Oils, and Liquid Tinctures, extracted from Flowers, Herbs, Roots, Rinds, Seeds, Woods, &c. To the soft Balsoms, various Extracts, soft Tin∣ctures.
Page 42
To the Hard, Salts, Flores, Magisterys Calxes, dry Tinctures of Crocus.

CHAP. I. Before we come to speak of the forms of Liquors to be prepared, which are, for the most part, made by distillation; certain general Rules seem needful to be inserted, of which this is
The First.
VEssels in which distillation is made,* must not be of Lead. For they infect Liquors with a malignant quality, render them vomitive, change their native taste, and some∣times themselves are corroded by sharp vapours expiring from the matter to be distilled. And if Galen, and other wise Physicians, condemned the waters which flow through Leaden Pipes, by reason of the malignity (much infesting the internal parts) which they thence contract. What may be judged of waters distilled in Leaden Vessels? Since it is of∣ten manifest (especially when distilled Liquors of this kind have stood unmoved for certain days) that Ceruse of Lead rased off in distillation from the Leaden Alembeck, is found in the bottom of the vessel; especially if to prove the same, you shall pour in a drop or two of Spirit of Vitriol.

And what is said of Leaden vessels, for like rea∣son must be understood of Tin, Brass, and Iron; unless distillation be made in a Brass Vesica, where what are distilled soon flow out.

Page 43
The Second.
Glasses, by how much the higher they be, so much the better are they. For so one distillation is better than three rectifications. Let the Cucurbits [or Glass bodys] for the most part be two Cubits high.

The Third.
In every distillation, vessels must not be two full; you will more safely operate, if Cucurbits be filled but one fourth part, Retorts about half; but the Brass Vesica may be three parts full, and but one remaining empty.

The Fourth.
Things flatulent, as Wax, Rosin, and the like; as also those which easily boil, must be put to distil in a less quantity, and in greater vessels, and indeed must be mixed with Salt, Sand, or such like.

The Fifth.
Distillation by a Balneum, is proper for things not too strongly compacted. Yet in Herbs, especi∣ally those that are hot, as in Worm-wood, Sage, Rosemary, &c. great heed must be taken, that we use not too gentle heat, least we draw out not so much of the essence, as of the unprofitable phlegm. But in Lettice, Endive, and such like of a more thin substance, a moderate heat must be adhibited; and sometimes a Baln of dew [or vapour only] which
Page 44
neither impresseth an Empyreuma, nor dissipates the more thin airy parts, may be sufficient.

The Sixth.
Distillation by Ashes or Sand, agrees with things of a more solid consistency, as Seeds, Woods, Roots, &c.

The Seventh.
By a Brass Vesica, things thin are not only di∣stilled, but others also which are more firmly com∣pacted; yet in their Menstruum first macerated.

The Eighth.
Distillation by Retort, doth not only extract the more weighty Spirits of Minerals, but also things more soft, as Woods, Seeds, Roots, Gums, Rosins, &c. Waters, and Oils.

The Ninth.
When fresh and juicy Herbs are to be distilled, they must be bruised, and the juice expressed, and then by heat of Baln. distilled in a high Cucurbit.

The Tenth.
Herbs either of their own nature dry, or dryed by time, must be bruised and moistned with common water, or their own proper water, May-dew, or Wine. And of the Menstruum must be so great a quantity, as may be sufficient for maceration; but if more be poured on, the whole quantity must not
Page 45
be abstracted. Maceration being made according to discretion, distillation must be made by a Baln. or if you shall distil per Vesicam, add to every one pound of herbs, six pound of water, and distil accor∣ding to Art.

The Eleventh.
In the same manner per Vesicam, whatsoever is Aromatick, whether Roots, or Rinds, Woods, Seeds, or Leaves, or Flowers are distilled, and Oil and water come forth together.

The Twelfth.
There are some which require a vehement fire; yet such must not be too violently urged, least, in so doing, their nature be wholly corrupted.

The Thirteenth.
Great care must be taken, that the Luting where∣with the distillatory vessels are conglutinated, do no where admit of expiration, least the liquor be defiled with an extraneous quality; especially when a more violent fire is to be adhibited.

The Fourteenth.
The distillation of things Acid, hath this proper∣ty, that the more ignoble part always comes forth first, and the more noble last. Wherefore in Recti∣fication of them, what first comes forth is to be se∣parated, as phlegm.

Page 46
The Fifteenth.
If waters smell of an Empyreuma, or shall be ve∣ry much contaminated with a certain fiery heat di∣spersed through their least parts; that is corrected if the Glasses containing them, be set in a cold and moist place.

The Sixteenth.
When Liquors distilled per B. M. are to be rectified by Insolation; the Glasses wherein they are put must be but half full, or three parrs filled at most; and the Membranes, with which they are wont to be covered, must be pricked with a needle; that through those Spiracles, the unprofitable flegm may exhale.

The Seventeenth.
Distillation must so long be continued, as untill the Liquor come forth without any savour of the matter imposited.

CHAP. II. Of Waters from Flowers, Herbs, Roots, Rinds, Seeds, Woods.
Water of Roses.
THis is prepared divers ways. Some take of Roses a convenient quantity, and these digested three days in Baln. they distil with the vapour of hot water.

Page 47
Others, without preceding digestion draw forth a water from them put into an Alembeck. Others also distil them by ashes; where there is need of the greatest Caution and circumspection, least the di∣stilled Liquor be infected with an Empyreuma. And there are others, who for lucre of gain, more than intending the health of Men, take the Roses whole as they are gathered, with a great quantity of water, and distil them by a Brass Vesica: and from thirty pound of Roses, they extract a hundred pound of saleable water, having an indifferent good odour. Others distil the flowers bruised by gentle heat of Baln. without any Menstruum, or at most, only so much as will serve to moisten them: and for the more expeditious procuring of a cooling virtue, in one distillation they first moisten them, either with common water, or old Rose-water; or else for enduring a fragrant and comforting virtue, they use more infusions in distilled water. Which way, we follow in preparing it; only distinguishing be∣tween the white, and the flesh coloured. For from them, that the greater cooling virtue may be ob∣tained; we beat them in a Marble Mortar, having first moistned them with a little Rain water, then with a Press, express the juice, and so distil it. The flesh coloured, bruised, without any moistning, are put into a great glass vessel set in a Cellar; and af∣ter three days, the juice is exprest and distilled. This is the most fragrant water, and will keep the fragrancy of its odour many years. Some upon the pressings of these, pour clean and pure water, and so macerated for eight days, they distil it either in Baln. or a brass Vesica; and this water so d•stilled in virtue and efficacy, is not inferior to the com∣mon vendible Rose-water.

Page 48
Burning Water of Roses.
As from all other things, especially such as are Alimentose, as flagrant and fragrant water, by the benefit of fermentation, may be extracted; so also from Roses, which, by common censure are cold.

Take Roses gathered in a serene time, when they are wholly destitute of any dewy moisture; beat these most accurately, and put them in a glass Cu∣curbit, which afterward being firmly closed, place in a Cellar. As soon as the Matter seems to smell of any acidity, take of the same bruised flowers, what quantity you please, and thence distil a Liquor per Baln. the water thence extracted, pour upon ano∣ther part of the Roses; and again distil it after the same manner, proceeding until all the quantity of fermented Roses hath passed by Alembeck; the fe∣ces, which are wont to remain in the bottom, being every time separated. Afterward, all the water drawn from the Roses, distil by Baln. and abstract about a twelfth part at least, and it if you please rectifie. So will you have a most grateful, and most odoriferous water; and which will as readily take flame, as Spirit of wine.

Water of Succory.
Take of the Herbs, and Roots of Succory gather∣ed in the middle of May, twelve pound, bruise them, or cut them very small, pour on them of common water twenty pound, and having macera∣ted them three days; by a Vesica distil at least eight pound.

Page 49
Fennel Water.
℞. Of Fennel-seeds grosly beaten four pound, of common water twenty four pound, add of Salt of Tartar or common Salt ℥j. macerate these in a hot place. Afterward distil them by a Brass Vesi∣ca, with its Refrigeratory; So the water with the Oil will pass out together, which from it must be separated.

Cinnamen Water.
℞. Of the best Cinnamon grosly bruised; on which pour of Rose-water, and of White-wine, of each three pound, macerate them in heat congruous to the heat of dung; then make distillation per Baln. separating the first water, which is the best; and also receiving the second apart; and so likewise the third. The second may be used instead of a Men∣struum for maceration. The third is unprofitable phlegm.

Acid Water of Oak, Juniper, Guaiacum, and Box.
℞. The sawings of Oak, or small splinters, or shavings of Juniper and Guaiacum, or shavings of Box: distil them in a Retort unto a dryness: af∣terward separate the Oil from the water through a brown paper. Rectifie the water in sand upon Col∣cothar, or Sea-Salt, or its own proper ashes: then by distillation separate the phlegm from the acid Liquor: Lastly, reserve a third part of the most pure Liquor, or there about. It is useful in dissol∣ving
Page 50
Corals and Pearls, and in extracting their Tinctures.

Compounded Water of Cinnamon.
Macerate and distil Cinnamon, as above; add∣ing the Roots of Dittany of Crete, Angelica, of each ʒij. In this water dissolve as much white Su∣gar, as you can, and digest the whole for one day natural: afterward segregate the superfluous water by distillation; then adde of Aqua vitae rectifyed ℥•j. and diligently mix them. It is of admirable virtue in the Pest, and in a difficult Birth.

CHAP. III. Of sundry kinds of Aqua fortis.
STrong Waters, which are also called Caustick, Chrysulcae, Separatory, and Stygian Waters, are confected by violent fire, of Atramentum, Sutori∣um, Salt Nitre, Salt-armoniack, Stibium, sublimate Mercury, Allom, Cinnabar, &c. Of which, that which obtains the greatest caustick, and corrosive force of all, is called Aqua Stygia; but that which dissolves gold, Aqua Regia.

Common Aqua fortis.
℞. Vitriol dryed two pound, Salt-peter puri∣fied one pound, grind them together, and mix them; then put them into a Retort very well coated; which place in a Furnace of Reverberati∣on, and applying a capacious Receiver, distil by fire
Page 51
gradually augmented, for twenty four hours. When white and cloudy Spirits are dissipated in the Reci∣pient, the distillation is ended; after which suffer all to cool by degrees. The water taken out, clari∣fie with Silver in this manner: take a fourth part of the Liquor distilled, in which project of pure silver ʒj. and dissolve the same over a fire; pour out the Solution on the other three parts, and they will wax milky; let the water settle, and pour off the clear. If you would have it be Aqua Regia in ℥iiij. of this common water, dissolve ℥j. of Salt Armoniack, or common Salt dryed; and with it you may dissolve gold.

A perpetual Aqua fortis, and the way of making Cinnabar.
Dissolve Mercury in Aqua fortis, add of Sulphur an equal part; distil these by Retort, and you will have a water more potent than before, and in the neck of the Retort Cinnabar.

Philosophick Water, or Aqua Regia.
℞. Of Salt Nitre purified, and Salt armoniack, of each ℥ij. grind, and mix them well together; and in a large Retort, with a capacious Receiver annexed, the junctures gently luted; make distillati∣on in ashes, continuing the fire until all the fumes with great violence be come forth; and no more drops will fall from the Retort. Then take out the Retort while it is hot, and put in the same quantity of the abovesaid matter, and mix it with the Caput-mortuum, distilling it as above.

Page 52
CHAP. IV. Of Spirits.
SPirits participate partly of water, and partly of fire; and as they are more aqueous, or more oleaginous; so are they called either water or Oil. Yet such, as are extracted from Minerals, are for the most part called Oils.

Among the Spirits of Animals, the spirit of hu∣mane bloud excels; of Vegetables, spirit of Wine; and of Minerals, spirit of Vitriol.

Spirit of Wine.
Digest Rich wine in dung, or like heat, in Circu∣latory vessels of an equal largeness for eight or ten days; afterward the vessels cooled, pour it out into high Cucurbits, on which set Alembecks, with Re∣cipients annexed, the junctures being firmly closed with Hogs or Ox-bladders, make distillation in Baln. according to Art. First the spirit* comes forth, which keep apart by changing the Receivers; then urge the phlegm till the feces remain thick like liquid honey. The same feces di∣stil by Retort, administring fire gradually, and you shall receive a fat Oil.* Then from the Caput-mortuum, by re∣verting the phlegm upon it, and by digesting, filtring, and coagulating, you may ex∣tract a Salt.* If you desire the spirit of wine more excellent, rectifie it by often repeated di∣stillations.

Page 53
Spirit of Tartar.
℞. Of pure white Tartar five pound, put it in a glass Retort, to which, when placed in ashes with a large Receiver annexed, administer fire gradual∣ly; first the sp•rit comes forth, afterward the Oil; both which must be rectifyed by addition of Salt of Tartar, and afterward separated each from other.

It is a famous aperitive; wherefore in retenti∣on of the Menstrues, the Paralysie, Jaundies, and such like affects, it is wonderfully efficacious. It is also used in the Dropsie, with other hydragoge wa∣ters. In the Leprosie, Indian disease, Pleurisie, and Quinsey, it is also exhibited. The dose from ℈j. to ℈ij. in convenient Liquors.

Spirit of Turpentine.
℞. Of clear Turpentine, what quantity you please; put it into a Brass Vesica (with its Refri∣geratory) almost filled with water. So a spirit is drawn forth, which will swim above the water; and by B. M. it may be rectifyed. Its use in Medi∣cine is manifold. The Cough, Phtisick it cures; pestilential venoms it resists; it clears the sto∣mach of sordid and viscous stoppages: it maketh Urine sweet as a Violet; it expels the Stone, and gravel, and heals the Strangury, and Ulcers of the bladder: it opens, and comforts the nervous parts; heats the Spermatick vessels, and excites Venus: dissolves coagulated bloud, purifies the womb, and in suffocation of the Matrix is exceeding profitable. Externally in contusions, it is of admirable use, and exceeding beneficial.

Page 54
Spirit of Sulphur.
Under a Glass Campane place an earthen vessel with Sulphur, which set on fire. The inferiour ves∣sel must be so fitted to the Campane; that the as∣cending fumes may not suffocate the flame, but carryed freely upward into the head, may there be condensed into Liquor, and so fall into a vessel apt to receive the same. From one pound of Sul∣phur, may you have ℥j. of spirit, of so great effica∣cy, as Leonardus Fieravant said he could never suffi∣ciently admire the vertue thereof, inwardly exhibi∣ted into the body. It may be given with appropri∣ate waters, or Syrups to 4. 5. or 6. drops. And be mixed with Electuaries and Pills, as well in hot as cold distempers. Externally also it is profitable for dealbation of the Teeth: for Ulcers in Lues-venerea of the jaws; Warts and Fistula's of the Fundament, and all other members. It is also called Oil,* but improper∣ly.

Spirit of Vitriol.
There are three kinds of Vitriol; the Green, White, and Blew, participating of the nature of Salts, Alloms, and Sulphurs, some more, and some less. The first indeed participates more of Salt, the second of Allom, and the third of Sulphur; and they consist of an aqueous, earthy, and middle nature, the aqueous and earthy, as Ripley witnesseth in his Pupil of Alchimy, cannot be separated from their extremities, but by the mediation of Mercu∣ry; which, as Geber affirms, retains what is of its
Page 55
own nature, rejecting and exposing to the fire, what is not so. The middle perspicuous substance exal∣ted by sublimation, into a Snow-like candor, oc∣cultly in it self contains a sulphurious seed, most Red, like a small worm. Whence in Turba it is said, Philosophers have admired, that a redness should be existant in so great whiteness. Of this Sulphur Ge∣bar thus speaketh; in cap. 28. Summ. By the most high GOD, that thing illuminates and rectifies all bodies, because it is Allom, and Tincture. This is that Aqua vitae, the dry water which wetteth not the hands, the congealed water, the animate Salt; touching which Raymund Lully after Alphidius saith, salt is no other than fire; nor fire any other than sul∣phur, nor sulphur other than Argent-vive, reduced into that precious, celestial, incorruptible substance, which we call our stone. Whence one to the Let∣ters VITRIOLUM thus alludes. Visitando Interiora Terrae Rectificando, Invenies Occultum Lapi∣dem Veram Medicinam: that is, visiting the interi∣our parts of the earth, by rectifying you may find the occult stone, the true Medicine.

Moreover, among Artists it is controverted, whether among the various kinds of Vitriol, either that of Cyprus, the Romane, or Hungarick, be the better, and more noble. The Cyprian and Ro∣mane may well enough be suspected, because they are for the most part adulterate and sophisticate, being various, viz. of divers colours, forms, and virtues. And the Hungarick, such as by French and German Merchants is brought unto us, is a certain blew, perspicuous, and sometimes a greenish Vi∣triol, which they sell for genuine, and as brought from Pannonia, but they lie impudently. For when I with great travel went to those parts, with inten∣tion
Page 56
to go into the Mines of Gold and Silver, that I might by* proper experience have more perfect notice of Metals and Minerals; the Il∣lustrious and noble Lord of Bloenstain, general Pre∣fect of the Mines, of that Kingdom of Hungary, through his aboundant cour•esie and humanity, did certainly affirm to me, that there were two kinds of Vitriol there; whereof one was white, and very aluminose, of which they make Chrysule-waters, but the other blew, and far more excellent; yet the Minera of this, although much better than the other, was not dug; because no Merchants judged it worth their time, to buy such Vitriol, and trans∣port it to other Lands. The same is likewise affirmed of An∣timony,* which is found in a∣boundance in the Gold Mines.

That Vitriol, of right, and deservedly, ought to be censured most excellent, which by the benefit of water is made of Venus, and thence extracted, as is mentioned hear-after. To this, the blew aforesaid is somewhat inferiour; for this contains in it self more of Sol; transmutes more of Mars into Venus; and longer sustains the Examen of fire, before it gives forth its last spirits, from what place soever it is brought.

Therefore of this Vitriol ℞. twelve pound, cal∣cine it in an earthen vessel with moderate fire, un∣till all its humidity recede. The vessel cooled, re∣duce the Mass, which will be about seven pound, to powder very fine, and with one pound or there∣abouts of the same Test [where it was calcined] pulverisate, put it into a Retort firmly coated; which must be so large, as at least a third part there∣of
Page 57
may be empty. Then place it in a Reverberato∣ry furnace, apply a large Recipient, with a short neck likewise coated, and diligently close the jun∣cture of the Retort with the Receiver, with Salt Luting. Then above the Retort place a broad co∣ver of earth of one foot high, and quadrangularly perforate in the top [or upper part] being made exactly to close the mouth of the furnace, of what form soever it be, whether square or round, exactly fitted in altitude convenient, and to close or shut in the mouth of the furnace equally on every side; that the vacant place between the Retort and the cover may be filled with coals. Which being done, make a quadrangular draught with four pieces of Tile, a∣bove the square hole of the cover, that the flame by help of such a vehicle, may, when time serves, more freely ascend. The Orifice of the draught, as also the furnace door and ash hole, must be so closed, as for the first four hours, the coals in the furnace may but just burn, without being extinguished; by which the Retort being leisurely and successively heated, then for the following four hours, the heat may be encreased, by gradually, and by little and little e∣very hour opening the holes above and below, until the flame begin to break out in the superiour part, and the Retort wax hot all over, the ash hole and draught being altogether open, and no way stopped; the fire must be intended eighteen or twenty hours, untill all the spirits be come forth. After two days, moisten the Salt Luting, wherewith the Retort and Recipient were joyned, with a wet cloath keept on for an hour, because it will be so very hard, as with∣out moistning it cannot be removed without en∣dangering the Glasses; then may you safely take off the Receiver. Which being done, by distillation in
Page 58
Baln. or a gentle heat in ashes, separate the phlegm from the spirit. There are some, who after sepa∣ration of the phlegm, do rectifie the spirit in sand upon Corals beaten small.

This spirit, in burning Fevers mixt with appro∣priate waters, conveniently cools; it quenches thirst, resists the putrefaction of humours; it ope∣rates by Urine and Sweat, consumes phlegm, breaks tough and viscous homours, restores languished ap∣petite, and excellently tingeth juices of Roses, Vio∣lets, and other flowers.

Spirit of Nitre.
Nitre or Salt-peter must be mixed with three parts of common Bolus, and distilled by Retort, the space of ten or twelve hours. Of one pound of Salt-peter, you may have a pound of Spirit, if you right∣ly operate.

This Spirit is the true Balsamick fire of nature, and in the Cholick, Pleurisie, and Quinsey, is very beneficial.

Burning Spirit of Saturn.
Calx of Saturn or Minium, is infused in distilled Vinegar, or else the phlegm thereof: afterward it is digested for one day natural, being often stirred, that it Chrystallize not in the bottom of the vessel, the Menstruum is poured off, and other Menstruum poured on, until all the Saltness be abstracted. The evacuations are filtred, and two parts or thereabout vapoured away; the third remaining part set in a cold place to Chrystallize; the Chrystals are se∣parated, and dissolved in fresh Vinegar; filtred,
Page 59
and often as above coagulated, untill they be suffici∣ently impregnated with the Salt of Vinegar, Armo∣niack, as with proper ferment. They are di∣gested for a Moneth with such heat in Baln. as they may continually be resolved, like Oil into Liquor. Afterward they are distilled by Retort in sand, ob∣serving degrees of fire, into a large capacious Re∣ceiver annexed; which if not very exactly luted on with the Retort, so great a fragrancy (filling the whole Laboratory) will be lost, as I doubt not but if the odours of all odorate Vegetables were gathe∣red together, and mixed, it would far exceed them. After distillation, when all is cooled, you will find a Caput-mortuum very black, and of no va∣lue. From the Liquor come forth you shall sepa∣rate a yellow Oil supernatant; and an Oil Red as bloud setling to the bottom. The phlegm by reiterated distillations, being separated from the burning water, you shall keep the most fragrant spi∣rit of Saturn, as a most precious Balsom for various diseases, profitably to be exhibited, as well inter∣nally, as externally.

Moreover, a fragrant Spirit of this kind may by Chymical Art be extracted, not from Saturn only, but also from all other Metals, by mediation of that viscous Mineral water, which, by the benefit of Vulcan only, without the addition of any extraneous thing, in a most short space of time is prepared. Of which Rhodianus, in the Treatise of three words, saith, That fumous, aqueous, and adustive Spirit, is changed into a most noble body, and flies not any more from the fire, but flows like Oil, &c. For it receives all the qualities of that Metal, with which, by the industry of a prudent Artificer, it is mixed, as also the odour, colour, and taste, with conserva∣tion
Page 60
of its vegetate faculty. And as Rhasis saith: As it is changed, it changeth. Whence it is appa∣rent, how basely, ignorant, vulgar Misochymists are, who atribute, odours, tasts, and other medici∣nal virtues to vegetables only, and esteem Metal∣licks as destructive to the humane body, and wor∣thy to be shunned, more than a Dog or Snake.

CHAP. V. Of Vinegar.
Distilled Vinegar.
VInegar without digestion, is distilled in the same manner, as Spirit of Wine: only that the phlegm, as in all other sharp things, comes forth first, and the spirit last. Oil, and Salt, by like rea∣son as is said in Wine, are thence extracted.

Vinegar Alkalisate.
Upon Vinegar distilled to the consistency of Li∣quid honey, pour so much common water, as may stand above it six, seven, or eight inches, digest it in Balneum for two days: then set it in a cold place to Chrystalize. Remove from them the water by in∣clination, and pour on other until all the oleaginy recede. Then must the Chrystals be often dissolved in boiling water, and coagulated in a cold place, that they may be rendred altogether transparent, and on them poured vinegar four times distilled, and purged from all its phlegm, so as to one pound of Chrystals, be added four pound of Vinegar. Which
Page 61
being done the whole must be distilled by Retort in sand, administring toward the end, a fire sufficient∣ly strong. The distillation finished, calcine the fe∣ces, and extract a fixed Salt; then rectifie the vine∣gar with its essential animate Salt, distilling it with a strong fire from the fixed Salt, and repouring, what is distilled off, upon the remaining Salt, until all the Salt shall have passed by Alembeck. Then twice distil this vinegar impregnated with this its own Salt in a boiling Baln. that being done, keep the vinegar, thus rendred most potent, for calcining the most hard bodies of Stones and Chrystals.

CHAP. VI. Of Oils.
OIl exprest from Olives, is most properly so called, because it participates of every exceed∣ing quality; but others are only similitudinarily so named.

All Oils are between an airy and fiery nature: and by how much the more sharp they are, so much the more fiery; and the loss sharp are said to be, the more Aethereal and airy.

Oil of the Yolks of Eggs.
Fry the Yolks broke in a Frying-pan, with tem∣perate heat, until they wax Red, and send forth Oil; keeping them continually moving with a stick, that they burn not. Then express the Oil hot, and with a great quantity of distilled water, digest it for a Moneth in Baln. Some take the Yolks so fryed,
Page 62
and inclosing them in cloath moistned Oil of sweet Almonds, press out the Oil with with a Press.

Mathiolus writing to Dioscorides, commends this Oil as useful for cleansing, and removing rough∣ness of the Skin, and clefts of the lips, hands, and feet; and against dolours of Ulcers, of the joints, and all nervous places. It is likewise profitable in scaldings or burnings by fire, and in membranes of the Brain, malignant Ulcers it cicatriseth, and gene∣rates hairs.

Oil of Sage.
Take a great quantity of Sage, and set it in the shade two or three weeks; afterward distil it by a Refrigeratory, and receive the water (which you may rectifie) and the Oil. Which is profitable in all diseases of the Nerves: in the Paralysie, Apo∣plexy, Convulsion, and such like.

Oil of Wax.
Melt wax with a gentle fire, and let it stand so long melted, as till from it no more bubles rise. Then removing it from the fire, mix it with double its own weight of Salt decrepitate, and distil it by Retort with gentle heat. From one pound of wax, you may extract ℥xij. of Oil.

It resolves, attenuates, penetrates, mollifies, and discusses; wherefore it is profitable in hard im∣posthums, and cold tumors. It heals chops in the paps of womens breasts, and mitigates the dolours of them. Also it consolidates fresh wounds, if there∣with they be twice a day anointed. It is beneficial in burns, if mixed with oil of eggs.

Page 63
Oil of Turpentine.
℞. The thick substance remaining after distilla∣tion of spirit of Turpentine, and distil it per se, by Retort in ashes. So when the oil is extracted, Co∣lophony will reside in the bottom of the Retort. If you shall digest it afterward in Baln. as is said of the Oil of yolks of eggs, all its empyreuma will be removed.

It heats, softens, discusseth, opens, purges, and externally may be used instead of true Balsom, in all wounds; malignant, fetid, and incurable Ulcers, as Fistula's, the Wolf, and such like running soars; in the Parotides fractures, and contractures, &c. But it doth not always per se, if used alone, prove so beneficial, as when it is conveniently mixed with other appropriates for curing the affects.

Oil of Cloves.
℞. Of Cloves grosly beaten four pound, of foun∣tain water forty pound, macerate them in a hot place, as long as shall be convenient, adde of Tar∣tar ℥ij. afterward distil it by a brass Vesica with its Refrigeratory, and you will have ℥viij. of oil. In the same manner, Mace, Pepper, and the Seeds of Anise, and Coriander, &c. may be distill∣ed.

It helps in cold diseases of the Stomach, Liver, Heart, and the Diarrhaea from a cold cause; it dissi∣pates melancholly spirits, and clarifies the gross. Externally it heals green wounds, and performs the office of true Balsom.

Page 64
Oil of Sugar.
℞. Of white Sugar grosly beaten ℥iiij. Aqua vitae, ℥viij. Set fire of the Aqua vitae in a silver or earthen dish glazed, into which cast the Sugar, con∣tinually stirring it with a Spatula, until the flame cease; then add of Rose-water ℥•j. mix them.

It corroborates, and by experience certainly helps those that labour with a cough caused by cold∣ness of the Lungs.

Oil of Tartar.
This oil, beside the way above delivered in pre∣paring the spirit thereof, is also made per deliquium, by putting Tartar calcined to a whiteness in a Cellar,* or other moist place, until it be resolved into oil, which must afterward be filtred. Also it may be pre∣pared: If Tartar, after calcina∣tion be dissolved in common water, filtred and coagulated; and the coagulate placed in a cold moist place, until it be resolved.

Oil of Amber.
Digest a pound of Amber beaten in one pound of white wine. Then adde a handful of prepared Salt, distil it by Retort, observing degrees of fire. By distillation twice rectifie it with Salt only.

This oil was once called Sacred, by reason of the admirable virtues it hath, being as well exhibited
Page 65
per se, as mixt with others; in the Epilepsie, Appo∣plexy, Melancholly, Cramp, Vertigo, Pest, Stone, cold defluxions of the Head, Palpitations of the Heart, deliquiums of the mind, difficulty of breath∣ings, difficulty of making water, difficult Birth, Strangulations of the womb, retention of the Men∣ses, white flux of the Matrix, Worms, and Fe∣vers.

A compounded Oil for the Hemicrania.
℞. Of Rue one handful, boil it in one pound of oil Olive, in a new earthen pot for half an hour. Then pour it it into a Retort, and to it adde of Ve∣nice Turpentine ℥xij. of Colophony ℥iiij. distil it in sand; the clear water, which comes forth first, being of little value separate. Afterward gradual∣ly encreasing the fire, the oil will come forth, which receive apart.

In the time of the Fit, heat a little of it over a fire, and with Cotton moistned in it, anoint the fore-head and Temples, and the dolourous part also, ordering the Patient to go to bed.

A compounded Oil for the Womb.
℞. Of the powder of Rue, a little dryed, one •ound Castor, ℥ij. Olibanum, Myrrh, of each ℥iiij, •il of Linum ½ pound, digest them four days in •orse dung, or like heat; afterward distil them by •etort in a close Reverberatory. With this Liquor •oint the Womb morning and evening.

Page 66
Oil of Tiles.
Small pieces of Tiles or Flints (like Beans) make Red hot in a Crucible, which, so fiery hot, cast into old oil Olive; close the vessel, and leave it for a night. Afterward distil the small Stones with the oil by Retort. Rectifie the oil by distilling it the second, and third time with prepared Salt.

Oil of Sulphur.
℞. Of Sulphur beaten one pound, Calx-vive ½ pound Mercurial Salt ℥iiij. mix them, and distil by Retort. For wounds and Ulcers, it is very pro∣fitable.

Oil of Salt.
Salt consists of divers parts; earthy,* aqueous, and fiery. Its consistency and solidity, is from earth, its Liquability from water, and its biting property from fire. It is sharp,* bitter-sweet, cutting, subtile, penetrative, pure, fragrant, in∣combustible, and preserves other bodys from cor∣ruption; perspicuous, as air, by reiterated distilla∣tions; dissoluble in humid, and Liquable in fire like Metals. And it is as the Soul in the body, accor∣ding to Pliny, who after the Stoicks, saith, Salt is given to Swines flesh, being as it were dead in its own nature, instead of a Soul. For this, in manner of •erment, where it hath power of penetration, converts the body, with which it is mixed into its own nature, by consuming the humour obnoxious to
Page 67
putrefaction. Raymund Lully calls the salsuginous Liquor, dispersed through the whole body, Urinal humour: Paracelsus, Mummy.

There are divers ways invented by Artists, of extracting the oil of spirit of Salt. Some distil Salt decrepitate per se, without addition of any external thing. But since salt is of easie fusion; and when co-united in one, it retains the most contumacious spirits: after distillation for twenty four hours, all being cooled, they break the Retort, grind the Mass of salt, and put it in a new Retort with the di∣stilled Liquor; and this they repeat so often, as till the whole salt be resolved into oil, which in the eighth or ninth distillation is wont to be. This O∣peration is too tedious. Others dissolve calcined salt in a Cellar, or with Rain-water, and impaste it with Potters Clay sifted, and thence make smal balls or pellets, which when dryed, they put into a Retort, and so extract the spirit.

But I am wont thus to prepare it. I take of Sea salt calcined, two pound, and I mix it with six pound of flour of Tiles, Red Earth, or common Bolus: all which I put into a firm and large Retort, so as at least a third part may rema•n empty; and applying a capacious Recipient, into which I first pour one pound of distilled water; then do I keep it distilling for thirty hours, observing the same degrees of fire mentioned in distillation of spirit of Vitriol. After separation of the water and phlegm, I receive ℥xx. at least of most sharp o l, which must be rectifyed. It is endued with most po∣•ent virtues; whether it be used internally or exter∣nally. It renovates the whole Man, and preserves •rom all diseases; if it be used in r•ch Wine, or Aqua vitae. Mixt with salt of Wormwood, and ta∣ken
Page 68
either in Wine or water of Wormwood, it expels the Dropsie. It cures the Epilepsie, Jaun∣dies, Fevers, Stone, and Maw-worms. By anoint∣ing it heals Members disjoynted, contracted, pa∣ralytick, and apostemated. Also it mitigates do∣lours of the Gout, if mixed with oil of Turpentine, or of Wax, or Camomil. Also it calcines all Me∣tals, Stones, yea, Glass it self: the most perfect work of Art.

Another way.
Dissolve common salt in humid per se, filter it so of∣ten, as till no feces be left; then set it in horse dung for two Moneths, afterward with most strong fire distil it, and separate the phlegm from the unctuous, salsug nous Liquor by B. M. Whatsoever is most obnoxious to corruption, if imbibed with this Li∣quor, it remains incorrupt for many Ages. It is believed, that that body of a most beautiful Wo∣man was embalmed with this Liquor; which, as Raphael Volateranus relates, in the time of Pope A∣lexander the VI. was found about 117. years be∣fore, or thereabouts, in an ancient Sepulcher near Albana, so intire, and wholly free from any cor∣ruption, as if the Life had but that hour expired. Whereas, by the Sculpture upon the Marble Tomb, it was witnessed to have lain there buryed above 1300. years.

Oil of Vitriol.
Dissolve the best Vitriol in common water; the Solution digest by gentle heat of Baln. afterward fi•ter it; and by vapour of Baln. in a Glass vessel, abstract •he water till it contract a skinnyness. Then
Page 69
set the vessel in a cold place to produce perspicuous Chrystals; which removed, the remaining water evaporate until it contract a new skin, and pro∣duce new Chrystals in a cold place. All which se∣parated, dissolve, digest, and filter; and in a cold place again set to Chrystallize; and as above, sepa∣rate, repeating the same labour the third time, un∣til the Vitriol be freed from all Heterogeneal ter∣restriety. This Vitriol put into an high Cucurbit, and in Baln. abstract the flegm to a dryness, rever∣ting the humid so oft upon its own earth, as till the dry shall have imbibed all the humid. The Mass take out, and grind to a subtil powder, which put in∣to a firm Retort, with an eighth part of its own weight of Spirit of wine perfectly rectified, and observing degrees of fire for three days, distil off all the Spirits. The vessel being cooled, what shall be in the Receiver, mix with other two pound of Col∣cothar, as above prepared; and again for three days distil it. Then in an high Cucurbit separate the spirit of wine by Baln. afterward distil the spirit of Vitriol by ashes. In which spirit, if you shall dissolve Corals or Pearls, you will have a true An∣tepileptick. The Oil, Red like bloud, which ad∣heres to the bottom, you may rectifie by Retort in sand, or by digestion only, and separate the earthy feces setling to the bottom from the oil. Its use is rather in Metallicks, than in Medicine.

Oil of Antimony.
℞. Of crude Antimony and Sugar candid, of each ℥iiij. of calcined Allom ℥j. grind and mix them together, distil them by Retort with a very
Page 70
moderate fire. So will you have a Red oil, most apt for curing Ulcers.

CHAP. VII. Of Liquid Tinctures.
BY the word Tinctures, Chymists do not under∣stand, as the vulgar think, simple colours separa∣ted or exalted from a mixt body; but essential co∣lours of things, and such as are inherent in the for∣mal qualities, extracted from the concrete body. Wherefore Tinctures are sometimes called oils, sometimes spirits, and sometimes Quintessence.

Tincture of dry Roses.
Put ℥j. of Roses dryed in the shade, in four pound of warm water, unto which adde ʒij. or thereabout of spirit of Vitriol or Sulphur. In three or four hours the water will be deeply coloured, which must be filtred. In which if you dissolve ℥xij of Sugar, you will have a true Refrigerative of the Liver.

Tincture of Violets.
Bruise the Flowers, and macerate them in their proper water, or in oil of Sugar above described; afterward express them; the expression strain until Tincture answer your desire. Or.

Put the flowers to the nose of an Alembeck, that the proper distilled water gliding through them, may abstract the Tincture with them.

Page 71
CHAP. VIII. Of Balsoms.
CHymical Balsoms are no other than compound∣ed oils, and by the addition of other things ren∣dred more thick. They consist almost of a triplicit Liquor, viz. spirituous, or aqueous, oleaginous, and thick like honey. With which sometimes, as the nature of the matter requires, Musk, Amber, Civet, &c. are wont to be added.

Balsom of Cinnamon.
This is compounded of the Tincture extracted by spirit of wine, and inspissate with oil, and salt of the same as also with white wax dissolved, and wel wash∣ed in Rose water from all its acrimony, which gives a convenient consistency. Or it is made of Deer suet, or suet of a Wether well cleansed and wash∣ed, every of them per se; or one of them may be mixed with the wax, and afterward with the extract oil, and Salt be reduced to a j•st consistency. So are prepared Balsoms of Cloves, Juniper, Sage, Rosemary, Anise, and such like; which as well for external anointing, as internal use, are most effica∣cious.

Balsom of Sulphur.
℞. Of flowers of Sulphur ℥ j. oil of Turpentine ℥ iij. mix them, and in a Glass placed in sand, gent∣ly boil it for the space of eight hours, until it be as Red as bloud. Then pour upon it common water, and by Alembeck distil off the superst•ous oil with
Page 72
the water. In the bottom, the Balsom of Sulphur will remain; from which you may extract a Tin∣cture with spirit of wine, and coagulate it, which is given in water of Hysop, or Syrup of Liquorish, to those that are afflicted with the Cough of the Lungs.

Balsom of Saturn.
Distil away two parts of Vinegar, impregnated with the salt of Saturn, that only a third part may remain. Then take of oil of Roses ℥iiij. of the im∣pregnated Vinegar ℥viij. Of this pour drop by drop upon oil, mixing them continually together in a brass Mortar, until it be like Unguent. Which helps in Inflammations, and hot Gouts. If the same Vinegar impregnated with the salt of Saturn, shall be mixed with an equal part of common wa∣ter, and applyed hot with double Linnen Cloaths, upon contusions, in what part of the body soever, it presently asswageth all dolour.

CHAP. IX. Of Extracts.
EXtracts, specially so called, are prepared of the Animal and Vegetable kind, by the benefit of accommodated Dissolvents or Menstruums, such are spirit of wine, of Juniper, Whey of Milk, Hydro∣mel-vinose, water of redolent Apples, fumitory, and the like, or waters of the same things, from whence you intend to prepare the Extracts. From Ani∣mals, Flesh, Mumy, the Liver, Spleen, Lungs, Testicles, and like parts, are chosen: Whence ex∣tracts
Page 73
of Cranium are famous, for the Epilepsie; of Ox-spleen, for provoking the Menses; of the Li∣ver of a Calf, for the Dropsie, and hepatick Flux; of the Lungs of a Fox, for the Asthma, and like diseases. From Vegetables, various extracts are made; as from Herbs, Flowers, Roots, Juices, Berrys, Rinds, Woods, Aromaticks, Seeds, and Fruits; as is manifest in Quercetanus his last Chapter, of restoring the Pharmacepaea of Dogma∣ticks.

Moreover, for preparing purging extracts; many have hitherto used spirit of wine, for a dissol∣vent; which because it doth much infringe their Cathartick force, is not to be promiscuously used in all. It may sometimes be used, as in extract of Hel∣lebore, Coloquintida, and Scamony; but in others, di∣stilled waters must be substituted; as in Rubarb, water of Endive is most commodious; in Leaves of Oriental Sena, water of redolent apples, of Fumi∣tory, and Fennel: in Agarick, water of Cinnamon; and so in others, others. Now, could such an A∣qua vitae, deprived of its Salt armoniack, be obtain∣ed, as Dariotus (and after him John du Val, Physici∣an of Issoldunen, likewise Panotus in his Treatise of the true preparation of Chymical Medicaments, in the Magistery of Tartar) teacheth, a more excellent could not be desired for preparing extracts of eve∣ry kind. Although Dn. Mayaud, a Man in the Chymical Art long experienced, and my very good friend, did with me, according to prescript of the above-named Doctors, attempt to prepare such a Menstruum; yet in this operation, we sometimes lost both the oil, and our labour. Whence a Man may conject•re, that when the good Panotus, in the above cited Magistery of Tartar, did admonish and
Page 74
invite others to reverence GOD, and render him thanks for so rare a Secret; he himself did not enough fear God, or render him praise, when he con∣secrated such a Magistery to Posterity.

Extract of Sena.
Macerate the Leaves of Sena twenty four hours, in a sufficient quantity of distilled water of redolent Apples; what is tinged, poured off, and filter; the Leaves being first strongly exprest. In the mean while, from the feces extract a salt according to Art, and commix it with the extract, which distil with gentle heat of Baln. until but two parts re∣main; or in a glass Bason, exhale the superfluous homor, by vapour of an hot Baln. to the consistency of an extract. Note, the extraction of Tincture from the same Leaves of Sena, must not be the se∣cond time repeated, least the extract admitted into the body, excite grievous torments.

Extract of Rubarb.
Fresh Rubarb cut very smal, digest in water of Endive, or other odoriferous water, until it be co∣loured; what is tinged pour off, and repour on fresh water so oft, as until it will no more be tin∣ged. The evacuations filter, circulate, and distil off the Menstruum to the consistency of an extract, by heat of Baln. the salt from the feces being first added, as in the former preparation.

Page 75
Panchymagogon.
℞. Pulp of Coloquintida,
Black Hellebore,
Diagridium, of each ℥ijss.
Leaves of oriental Sena ℥iiij.
Choice Rhei, ℥iiij.
Species of Diarrhodon Abbatis, ℥j.
Hermodactils,
Turbith,
Agarick,
Aloes of each ℥j.
Make an extract with water of Cinamon, accor∣ding to Art, adding the salt from the feces. Dose from ℈j. to ʒss.

For the Quartane.
℞. Aloes ℥iiij.
Myrrh,
Roots of Gentian,
Round Aristolochy, of each ʒiij.
Oriental Saffron, ʒss.
Of the three kinds of Saunders of each ʒj.
Coltsfoot ʒ j. Leaves of Sena cleansed ℥jss.
The best Mithridate ℥ss.
Pulverisate what are to be pulverised, and make a Mass with Syrup of Scolopendrium, of which make an extract with water of Carduus benedictus, adding the salt of the feces. Dose. From ℈j. to ʒss. the day before the coming of the fit in the morning, with ʒj. of water of the extract.

Germain Treacle.
Fresh and ripe grains of Juniper are beaten in a Marble Mortar; to every one pound of which,
Page 76
four pound of distilled Rain-water is poured, and for three days they are digested in a hot place; af∣terwards strained through a cloath, and strongly ex∣prest; the strained Liquor filtred, and exhaled to the consistency of an extract. Dose ʒj. It is given in the Cholick, Stone, suffocation of the Matrix, suppression of the Menses, cold defluxions, and in the Dropsie. It is also a specifick Preservative a∣gainst the Pest, and all contagious air.

Laudanum, or〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
Quovis Homerico praestantius.
A Narcotick extract is called Laudanum, that is to say, a Laudible Medicine, viz. by reason of the famous ef∣fects thereof,* which we very of∣ten find in the most grievous diseases, and dolours. For Homer witnesseth, that the Remedy of Hellen was insignized with such a name, whereby all languishings of the heart, and sicknesses, are driven away, and pleasant chearful∣ness, and joy is induced.

℞. Tincture of Henbane, extracted according to art, with spirit of wine, made sharp with spirit of Vi•riol or Sulphur ℥ j.

Extract of Opium, extracted as above, ℥j.
Extract of Oriental Saffron, ℥ j.
Mix these, and set them in a warm place for fif∣teen days, daily stirring them. The days expired, draw off the spirit of wine by Baln. to the mass re∣maining in the bottom; adde extract of Castor ʒij.

Page 77
The Tincture extracted, from ℥ij. of Diamber, by spirit of Juniper Wine in a vaporous Baln. together with the Dissolvent.

Let these stand in digestion for a Moneth, stirring them often, until all the strong odour vanish. Then add,

Tincture of Corals,
Perlucid Amber prepared of each ʒj.
Bone of the Stags-heart ℈ss.
Tincture of Gold, ʒss.
First beat what are to be beaten, then mix all these in a Marble Mortar, and add

Oil of Amber,
Of Mace,
Of Cinnamon, of each ℈j.
Extract of Musk ℈ss. but this in Women must be omitted: Put altogether mixed in a temperate place, that the Mass may be dryed, of it thence ea∣sily to form pills. Dose from one grain to four.

CHAP. X. Of soft Tinctures.
ALthough Tinctures of this kind, by reason of the operations they perform, and the consi∣stency they have, may worthily be numbred with extracts; yet because by Authors, they were en∣dowed with the Title of tinctures; I thought it not amiss to assign them a peculiar Chapter.

Page 78
Tincture of Honey.
Mix honey with very clean sand, that it may be made a mass; then on it pour so much spirit of wine, as may stand above it two fingers; digest it for five or six hours; the coloured spirit pour off, and pour on other, until it be no more coloured. The tinged spirit filter and coagulate. It helps the Pthisick in a wonderful manner.

Tincture of Saffron.
This tincture is made with spirit of wine; which must so often be poured on, as till all the tincture be extracted, and a whitish earth remain. The tincture must be filtred, and the spirit of wine with gentle heat of Baln. abstracted. It hath various and egregious faculties: and especially it wonderfully recreates and restores the spirits in swounings, if one only drop of it be exhibited in a little broath or wine.

Tincture of Sugar.
℞. Of white Sugar pulverisate one pound, put it in a Cucurbit, or other convenient vessel, with 2 spoonfuls of distilled Vinegar, digest it in hot ashes for six hours. Then pour on of Aqua vitae, so much as will stand above it two fingers; digest it until it be coloured; afterward the tinged water pour off, and pour on other often, until it be no more co∣loured. Then remove the Menstruum per Baln. and the tincture or Red essence will remain in the bot∣tom, which must be circulated with Cordial waters. It is profitable in the Syncopen, and deliquiums of the
Page 79
mind, being exhibited with water of Cinnamon and Roses.

Tincture of Sulphur.
Melt Salt of Tartar in one vessel, and flowers of Sulphur in another; afterward mix them toge∣ther, then suffer them to cool. Afterward grind the mass; on which pour so much spirit of wine, as will stand about it four fingers. Digest it, until it be tinged with a most Red colour; separate the Menstruum by Baln. This tincture is the true Bal∣som of the Lungs.

Tincture of Coral.
Dissolve ℥ j. of Corals in one pound of juice of Lemons; digest it for eight days, then filter the So∣lution: in this tincture dissolve of white Sugar ℥viij. Then digest it by evaporating to the consi∣stency of a Syrup.

Dose one spoonful in every Hepatick flux, Dy∣sentery, and flux of bloud.

Another way.
℞. Of Coral beaten smal, what quantity you will, infuse it in acid water, either of Oak, or of Juniper, Guaiacum, or Box rectified; (as we have taught in the Chapter of distilled waters) that the Menstruum may stand above the Coral three or four fingers. Then place it to digest in horse-dung, or like heat for eight days. What shall be dissolved pour off, and pour on other acid water; digest and pour it off so often, as until the Corals be whol∣ly dissolved: the dissolutions filter, and distil to a
Page 80
dryness. To the matter remaining in the bottom, pour the best spirit of wine. That will in eight days be tinged like bloud, being set in digestion: then separate the tinged Liquor from the feces; repour on other spirit, digest, and pour it off, until you shall have extracted all the tincture. Then filter the tinged spirit, and coagulate it to the consistency of a Syrup. If you will, you may circulate it with Cor∣dial water, or add Sugar dissolved in Rose-water, and reduce it into a syrup.

Another way.
Corals are calcined with a like quantity of sul∣phur, and the tincture extracted with distilled Vi∣negar, by digestion for five or six days.

Otherwise.
Corals beaten, are calcined with a like quantity of Salt-peter, for one hour in a fire so moderate, as the Nitre may not melt. Afterward they are put hot into a vessel, and spirit of wine is poured upon them, and with it they are digested for twenty four hours. The tinged spirit is poured off, and other spirit repoured on, until it shall have extracted all the tincture.


CHAP. XI. Of Calcination of Common Salt, Salt-peter, Vi∣triol, the Stone of the Spunge, Chrystal, and Marchasite of Silver.
Calcination of common Salt.
PUt common Salt in a crucible, or other earthen vessel, filling it full almost to the top; then place the vessel covered between living coals, un∣til it be very hot all over, and the Salt cease crack∣ling. Afterward dissolve it in common water, fil∣ter the Solution, and coagulate it in a new glass dish.

Calcination of Salt-peter, or Mineral Crystal, or of Lapis Prunella.
Dissolve Salt-peter in common water, and filter it through brown paper, that it may be purged from all its impurities. Then in a glass vessel boil it, and scum it often before it be coagulated. When coa∣gulate, and dry, grind it, and in a clean earthen ves∣sel placed in burning coals, liquefie the Salt. To every pound of melted Salt, inject ℥j. of flowers of Sulphur; yet not altogether at one time, but at sun∣dry times, until all the fatness be consumed in flame. But the flame must studiously be avoided. This So∣lution, Filtration, Decoction, Despumation, Coa∣gulation, Eliquation, and Deflagration of the Salt, being thrice repeated: the Salt is sufficiently pre∣pared for medicinal use.


Of this Salt ʒss. dissolved in water of Roses, or Endive, is a principal Arcanum in the Prunella, or soar throat, being gargled; for it takes away all uncleanness of the mouth, and throat. And if a lit∣tle of that water be swallowed, it asswageth all in∣ternal heat, and is an admirable cooler of the heart. It abateth the Cough, if taken with spirit of Wine: with water of Hysop, it removes obstructions both of the Lungs, and Liver. Shortness of breath, it cures. Hoarsness it helps, and restores lost speech, if ʒss. thereof be taken in a morning fasting, with the yolk of an Egge moderately boiled. Moreover it is useful in all diseases, both internal, and exter∣nal, as John Tholdeus in his Halography, and Bernard Penotus, in his book of the true preparation of Chimical Medicaments amply teach.

Calcination of Vitriol.
Dry Vitriol to a whiteness, in an earthen vessel, not glazed, with moderate fire: afterward en∣crease the fire for a quarter of an hour, that the Vi∣triol may wax red; then is it called Colcothar.

Calcination of the Spunge Stone.
Heat the Stone of the Spunge red hot often, and as often extinguish it in distilled Vinegar, until it be resolved into a Calx. Its use in Calcination is for extracting tincture.

Calcination of Chrystal.
Chrystal reverberated for six hours in a crucible, reduce to a subtile powder; and mix it with an
Page 83
equal quantity of Salt-peter: and again reverbe∣rate it with a vehement fire for eighteen hours. Pour it out while in flux, into clear water; and what re∣mains undissolved, dry, and reduce to an Alcohol. Then with the same water boil it, until it be thick∣ned like a Poultis; after which, lay the Spissiude upon pieces of glass, to dry in heat; and again reduce it to an Alcohol: and if you will, set it in a cold humid place to be resolved. If any thing shall re∣main still undissolved, reiterate the Calcination with Nitre, and the other labours, as above, that it may be Soluble.

Dose, three or four drops, with a like quantity of oil of Juniper: Against the Stone of the Reins and bladder.

Another way.
Make clear and pondrous Chrystal red hot often, and as oft exstinguish it in distilled Vinegar, until with the least touch it may be reduced to powder. Then mix it with a like quantity of Salt-peter, and reverberate it for eighteen hours. Then by many ablutions, extract a fixed Salt-peter, dry it, and reduce into an Alcohol. It is profitable in the Stone, Falling sickness, Dysentery, and Sterile Breasts. If any one would for the aforesaid affects, more subtiliate this impalpable powder; let him di∣gest it twenty four hours in spirit of Wine, and by Retort distil it. What shall remain fixed, must be reverberated as above; and so often digested and distilled, as until the greater part shall ascend with the spirit of Wine. Then the spirit of wine being separated by distillation, what remains in the bot∣tom
Page 84
of the vessel, must be set in a moist place, that it may be dissolved into a water or oil.

Calcination of Marchasite of Silver.
Weismouth or Marchasite must be dissolved in wa∣ter made of Salts, unto a sulphureous and Stiptick clearness. The solution being clear, pour upon it the* essence of all li∣quid things; so in a moment it will be pre∣cipited into an Alcohol, most white like snow, which must be freed from all acrimony, and dry∣ed. Its use is for removing vices of the skin.

CHAP. XII. Of the various Calcination of Antimony.
Calcination of Antimony.
℞. Of choice Stibium four pound, of salt pre∣pared five pound. These pulverised, mix. And in a vessel of earth with a broad bottom placed over a fornace of Reverberation, still them together, for the space of five or six hours, until the fume cease, and the Stibium be made white, and somewhat yellow; (diligently beware of Liquefaction, and the noxious fume.) Afterward grind it to powder, from which, by affusion of hot water, and also of cold often, the salt must be extracted; which dry∣ed and pulverised, sublime per se in a proper vessel for ten or twelve hours. Hav ng gathered the flores, grind the Catu-mortuum, and reverberate it to
Page 85
a redness in a moneths space, the vessel being so clo∣sed, by reason of the ashes, as the fire may not be impeded from due operation. After calcination, draw forth the tincture with radicate Vinegar; and further elaborate it by filtration, separation of the menstruum, and circulation with Cordial water.

Another Calcination of Stibium, and Emetick Powder, or Mercurius Vitae.
℞. Of Antimony pulverised, ℥•iij.

Mercury sublimate, ℥viij.

Mix them together, and distil them in ashes by a glass Retort, unto which annex a Receptory half full of water. Afterward administer fire gradually, until a gummose Liquor, like butter, adhere to the neck of the Retort, which with a live coal, exter∣nally applyed, cause to resolve, and it will be pre∣cipited into the water in a white powder.

Then leisurely give fire of suppression, until a red Liquor come forth; which beginning to ap∣pear, remove the Receiver, and apply another pre∣sently; and intend the fire for an hour or two, until the Mercury joyned with the sublimate sulphur of Antimony, be sublimed to the neck of the Retort into Cinnabar. The precipitate powder digest for one night, and separate the water (impregnated with spirit of Vitriol) from the sublimate, and keep it for dissolving Corals and Pearls. Then upon the precipitate powder, pour other water often, until all its Acrimony be removed; afterward wash it with Cordial water, and dry it with most gentle heat. Dose, in strong constitutions, is four or five grains, but in the weak, two or three grains in a roasted Apple, or conserve of Roses.

Page 86
It is beneficial in the Pest; diseases of the Head, Fevers, Lues-venerea, Leprosie, Dropsie, and in Ulcers. But in exhibiti∣on hereof,* those singu∣lar Cautions delivered by Crollius in his Basilica Chymica, are to be observed; the first whereof is: That in the use of Antimony, care be taken, that no constipations be, cholick dolours, nor one of the principal Members hurt.

The second; nor that in those, to whom Anti∣mony is given, a vein be cut either before or after taking it.

The third; that it be not exhibited to cholerick persons, nor such as difficultly vomit, and who have otherwise but little strength; but unto those, who are prone to vomit, having a strong stomach; a large and wide throat, and who are otherwise ac∣customed with ease to vomit, and in whom the sick∣ly matter easily comes upward.

The fourth; where vomiting is needful, that a little pease broth gently boiled, or fat broth of Hens, or warm beer be exh bited, and that certain times if need be; that the sick may the more easily vomit, and the action of the medicine be accelebrated.

Liver of Antimony, or Crocus of Metals.
℞. Of crude Antimony one pound, of Salt-peter, ℥xij.

Mix these in an Iron mortar, where having first ground them well with a live coal, set fire to the mixture; and it will presently be Liver of Anti∣mony. Afterward separate the Salt peter. Dose, from twelve to twenty grains, in infusion of white
Page 87
wine, water of Carduus Benedictus, or other conve∣nient Liquors; especially in Pestilential Fevers.

Another Calcination of Stibium, working only by the inferiour parts.
℞. Choice Antimony, and salt decrepitate, of each one pound, these ground together, and well mixed, reverberate in a well luted crucible for twelve hours, encreasing the fire to it by degrees. The vessel cooled, wash the matter so oft with Aqua dulcis, as until all the acrimony be removed, then dry and grind it. Dose, from twenty five, to thirty five grains.

Regulus of Antimony.
℞. Of Antimony, Salt-peter, and Tartar, of each one pound, mix these pulverised well toge∣ther, then set a crucible in the fire, that it may be hot. Which being done, inject a spoonful of the powder, and presently close the vessel until the fume cease; then removing the cover, inject more of the powders, and close it again, so doing till all the powders be in; after which, give fire of fusion, and shake the crucible, that the Regulus may settle to the bottom. The crucible cooled, separate the Regulus from the feces, and keep it.

And from the Feces, a Sulphuraurate Diaphore∣tick, may in this manner be made.
℞. The feces of the Regulus, as above prepared, and reduce them to a Lexivium by digestion or e∣bulition, then filter it hot through brown paper. To this Lexivium when cold, add a little distilled Vinegar, and you will find the Crocus edulcorated
Page 88
by many ablutions: Which dry, and keep apart. It wil be an admirable sudorifick and mundificative of the bloud, most apt for expelling many diseases. Dose from ℈ss. to ℈j.

Cr•••s Martis Stellate.
℞. Of Horse nails ½ pound, Antimony one pound, make the Mars hot in a crucible, then add the Antimony beaten, and cover it, giving fire of fusion; afterward inject at times ℥•j. of Nitre; and lastly, pour all out into a Cone. Again pour the Regulus into the crucible, and add ℥j. of Nitre at times, as above. Repeat this Labour five or six times, until you have Regulus Martis Stellate.

Diaphoretick Antimony.
℞. Of Antimony, and Salt-peter, of each one pound, mix them, being pulverisate together; then set a crucible in the fire, that it may be hot; when hot, inject ℥•j. or thereabout of this mixtion, and presently cover the crucible, until the fume and noise cease. Afterward •nject more of the powder, and close the vessel as above, this do continually until all the mixture be put in, then administer fire of L•quefaction for a quarter of an hour. Which be∣ing done, and the vessel cold, take out the matter and grind it, mixing it as above, with an equal quantity of Salt-peter, calcine it in the same man∣ner as before. The matter afterwards being ground and edulcorated with ablutions, reverberate in an earthen vessel closed, for the space of twenty four hours, until it be made a candid powder, of wh•ch the Dose is fifteen grains.

Page 89
Another.
℞. Of the venenate scum of the two Dragons once rectifyed, ℥iiij. On which, when resolved in heat, pour spirit of Balsamick salt, ℥•iij. from this mixture, distil away the Liquor in sand to a dryness. The earth take out; and when very well ground, on it repour its own distilled Liquor, with ℥•j. of fresh Balsamick spirit, and distil as before.

Afterward to the powder ground as before, a∣gain pour on the distilled Liquor anew, adding o∣ther ℥ij. of spirit; and proceed again as at first. Then deliver the dry and ground matter to be exa∣mined by Vulcan, for twenty four hours, continual∣ly stirring it with a clean iron Instrument. At length from it often abstract the Alcohol of wine, that a can∣did dry powder may remain. It is of singular use in all pestilential affects, and malignant Fevers gene∣rally infesting.

CHAP. XIII. Of Calcination, and preparation of Mercury.
MErcury is a Mineral body, compounded of subtile sulphureous earth and water strongly commixed. The earthy substance thereof must be purged from its gross sulphureous terrestreity, and its watery substance, from the superfluous humidity in it contained. Mercury is two-fold, natural and artificial.

The natural, active,* and well purifyed in
Page 90
Almagro near Calatrava, in the Kingdom of Castile, is found living, per se, flowing, and coagulate into cinnabar which is extracted by force of fire. This most ancient Minera, Pliny calls the continent of eternal Liquor.

Like unto this is found in Idria, a Village of the County of Goritz in Slavonia. But the Spanish ex∣cels in goodness, although Idria be more fertile. But there is one thing remarkable, and worthy of admiration, viz. that although the bordering Towns and people of Idria, are almost every year afflicted with a Pestiferous Lues, yet from this evil they sometimes are wont to be wholly free, which (I going to that place about eight years since) was confirmed to me by the people, that a certain man of a very great age had observed it so in himself, and had received like Information from his Ancestors. From whence, as well as from other innumerable examples, it is found that Mercury is an Alexiphar∣macon against all corruption, and putrefaction. Al∣so no less stupendious, and nigh to a prodigy, is that which I there noted: There was a decrepit Old man, who, having spent the whole time of his Life in preparing cinnabar, did perpetually tremble; and he did so dealbate gold coin, by compressing it in his hand, as the native colour thereof did wholly disappear.

There is also other Mercury found in the Moun∣tain called Gimnavoda, six miles distant from Cra∣covia in Poland, between Tarnava, Ribie, and Stre∣letzky, which at certain times of the year breaks out on the superficies of the earth, especially in the Au∣tumnal quarter. Yet about the Feast of John Bap∣tist, I there gathered many grains like Pease in the roots of green things. But this Mercury is very a∣queous,
Page 91
and far inferiour to that of Sclavonia, as well as to the Spanish. The natural is also found in ma∣ny other places, and sometimes in Gold and Silver Mines.

The Artificial,* and its way of preparing is suf∣ficiently known to Artists, viz. by resusitative salts, as well from middle Minerals as Metals. Yet in this City, I have known many credible persons, and of great Authority and Dignity, who affirm, they have extracted living Mercury, not from Minerals only, but from humane bloud, first calcined, and from Plants also.

That Mercury is the best,* which if a dram of it be put into a very clean Silver spoon, and that set over a fire, shall after evaporation leave a yel∣low or white spot. But what shall blacken the spoon before it can be adhibited to medicinal use, must thus be purged.

℞. Of Mercury, and of distilled Vinegar, of each one pound, put them in a strong vessel with an handful of prepared salt, stir them very well toge∣ther for a quarter of an hour, that they may be mixed, and the Vinegar receive the blackness of Mercury to it self. Then pour out the Vinegar with the Mercury into a glass-bason, and so often wash it with warm water, as until all the blackness and sal∣sature be separated from it. When it is dryed, put it in the former vessel with Vinegar and salt as above, repeating the former Labour three or four times, and at last pass it through a skin. But this is a vul∣gar and imperfect purgation; a more perfect fol∣lows.

Page 92
℞. Mercury precipitate, cinabarisate, or subli∣mate; mix it with two parts of its own weight of calcined Tartar, or Calx-vive, distil it by a glass Retort in fire of suppression, or in a close Reverbe∣ratory, applying a large Receiver half full of wa∣ter. So you will have Mercury purified better than in the precedent manner.

Yet the most perfect way of purifying Mercury, than which a better cannot be given, is the Amalga∣mation thereof with perfect bodies; distilling it certain times by Retort, every time removing the earthy, sulphureous, and fetent feces, and a new a∣malgamating it, and at length passing it through a skin.

A White Precipitate.
Mercury is dissolved in Aqua fortis, and by affu∣sion of salt water precipited into a white powder. The dissolvent is by inclination separated, and the precipitate, by many ablutions, with digestion freed from all its saltness and acrimony. Then is it dry∣ed and washed with Rose water, and again dry∣ed. Dose internally, from eight grains to ten, chiefly in Venereal distempers. It purgeth only by the inferiour parts.

A Red Precipitate.
After dissolution of Mercury in Aqua fortis, eva∣porate it to a dryness with violent fire, and to the bottom of the vessel a Red precipitate powder will adhere; especially fit for venereal Ulcers.

Page 93
Precipitate Mercury. From the best, the best is made.
℞. Of Mercury purifyed ℥iiij. On which pour of oil of sulphur rectifyed ℥viij. digest it for two days in sand, then by Retort distil it, three times cohobating, lastly with violent fire, that the Retort may be Red hot. Which being done, take out the white mass, and grind it; and with hot water wash it often, until you see the precipitate turned to a most yellow powder, upon which, burn spirit of wine thrice. So may it be securely given into the body. Dose, from three or four grains, to six, in purging Extracts, conserve of Roses, or sugar of Roses. It helps in infirmities caused by putrefacti∣on of humours, and in deplorable diseases. It pu∣rifies the bloud in the Gout, Dropsie, and in all continued Fevers, it is a principal Arcanum.

Another Calcination, and Precipitation of Mercury.
Mercury distilled from Sol, or Luna, and purify∣ed as above, either per se, or with an eighth part of Sol, or Luna, precipitate into a Red powder, in this manner.

℞. A small vessel with a long neck, in which put ℥iiij. of Mercury; place the vessel upon an Iron plate in a fornace of sand, administring a continued fire, for the space of fourty days. The neck of the vessel must stand above the sand six or eight thumbs breadth; and for the first ten or twelve days, the Mercury that shall ascend to the neck of the vessel, must be certain times a day, every day thrust down
Page 94
and precipited to the fiery bottom, with an Iron Rod, having a Linnen cloath bound to the end of it, as Geber teacheth. This way of precipiting Mercu∣ry, is not the method of the modern, but ancient Philosophers. The days being expired, if any crude Mercury be found in the bottom, it must be separa∣ted from the Red powder, which hath wonderful faculties in medicine. For it is a most excellent Cathartick in the Leprosie, so kindly loosning the belly, as it may safely be given to Children, and Women with child: sharp humours it mitigates; it purgeth out phlegm, and amends the hot and dry constitution of the bowels. Dose six grains.

Another.
Dissolve Mercury in Aqua fortis, and precipitate it according to Art, by exhalation of all its humidi∣ty, that the precipitate may be Red. When pulveri∣sate, put it into a strong vessel, pouring on it so much Vinegar three times distilled as will stand above it five fingers; place the vessel in sand, administring fire, that the vinegar may gently boil for the space of six hours, and the precipitate be wholly dis∣solved.

Filter the solution, and upon it pour Liquor im∣pregnated with the soul of the world; and present∣ly the Mercury will be separated from the Dissol∣vent, which must be washt and dryed, and so reser∣ved for use. Dose, from four grains to five.

Page 95
Precipitation of Mercury in a moment.
Put the Red pulverisate matter in a crucible, ex∣posing it to a violent fire for four hours space, until it do in a manner begin to vitrifie, and adhere to the sides of the crucible. Then remove it from the fire, and when cold, grind it to a subtile powder, and put it into a glass vessel, pouring Aqua Regis rectifyed upon it; then set it in digestion for twen∣ty four hours, which time elapsed, by inclination evacuate the tinged water; and pour on other wa∣ter, repeating the same Labour so oft, as until it shall have extracted all the Tincture. The evacua∣tions distil to an Oleaginy. Of this oil ℞. ℥j. and pour it upon ℥iiij. of crude Mercury, and so it will be precipited in a moment. Nor will the oil ad∣here to the Mercury, if it be distilled off with strong fire. After exhalation of the oil, some of the Mer∣cury will be sublimed, but the greater part will re∣main fixed. Its use is in augmentation of Sols and most red vitrification.

A Diaphoretick Precipitate.
Dissolve Mercury distilled from Sol, or Luna, and purged, as above in Aqua fortis, which in a ves∣sel with a long neck, and proportionate Alembeck annexed, abstract by fire of the third degree with double cohobation, that the Mercury may be made Red; which must afterwards be edulcorated by cal∣cining in a crucible, placed in the fire, continually moving it with an Iron rod for a quarter of an hour or thereabout: or else with the following water. ℞. Of distilled vinegar two pound, of the phlegm
Page 96
of Allom ½ pound, of reverberated Calx of Egg-shels ℥vj. distil them together to a dryness. Of this water ℞. three pound; of the aforesaid precipitate Mercury, one pound; mix and digest them for one day natural, afterward distil them by Alimbeck, with three cohobations, toward the end encreasing the fire, that the matter may be well dryed; which circulate for one day natural with spirit of wine. Then separate the spirit by distillation; and again circulate and distil it. Repeating the same labour the fourth time.

This is the true preparation of precipitate Mer∣cury, for expelling infinite diseases, and especially Lues Venerea, whether it be internally taken (for so elaborated it only provokes sweat) or externally applyed with Butter, or any other medicament.

A Diaphoretick Precipitate of Cinnabar.
℞. Of vulgar cinnabar ℥j. Of prepared salt ʒij. Grind and mix these together, and in a convenient vessel, pour on them of oil of sulphur made per Cam∣pane ℥iij. digest these three days in ashes, after∣ward by violent fire, cause all the humidity to eva∣porate. In the bottom a white mass will remain, which must be edulcorated by frequent ablution. Dose, from six grains to ten, chiefly in venereal di∣stempers. It is given with conserve of Roses, and three or four ounces of decoction of Sarsaparilla.

Diaphoretick Mercury of Venus.
℞. Of filings of Copper, ℥j. Of Mercury mete∣orisate ℥ij.

Page 97
Mercurial salt, ℥ijss. Put these ground and mixed together in a strong vessel, which place in sand, and administer fire until all be melted, as wax. Then take the vessel hot as it is, and put it in cold [water] that it may break in sunder, and the greenish Mercury flow out, which, when dryed, put into a smal Retort, with spirit of sulphur or Vi∣triol, and in ashes set it in digestion for one day na∣tural. Which being done, distil it in sand, twice cohobating it; then wash it twice, or thrice, and the last time with cordial water.

It is a most excellent Diaphoretick Bezoardick Remedy against the Pest; if two hours after the first assault of the disease, it be taken in Liquor, it preserves from death. Dose one, or two grains in appropriate water.

CHAP. XIV. Of Calcination of Saturn, and Jupiter.
SInce as Geber saith, solution of bodies is im∣posible, the composition being unknown: be∣fore we come to calcinations of Metals, to speak somewhat touching the natures of them, will be in this place very suitable.

Rightly did Hermes, the Father of Phylosophers understand, when he said; That which is superiour, •s as that which is inferiour. For by the same reason •s nature doth produce Plants, and other Vegetables •n the superficies of the earth; so doth she in subter∣•anean places generate metals, though more slowly 〈◊〉 in a longer space of time, of the humid unctuous •pour of Argentvive, and sulphur vitriolate by
Page 98
its own heat (containing properties in it self) de∣cocting Mercury. Whence Hydrargyry is said to be the Mother of metals, and sulphur the Father. And in these are represented the four Elements, which are the remote matter of all natural bodies. For Mercury, as Feminine cold, and humid, holds the property of water, and air; and sulphur, as mascu∣line, hot, and dry, bears the representation of Fire and Earth. If any shall affirm, that as well of the vapour, as juicyness [found in Mines] the matter of metals consists, I will not gainsay it. For when I, the last Summer, in Hungaria, descended into the Silver Mine in Schemnitz, about fifteen hundred Cubits deep; I Learned of the Miners, (who, by reason of the exceeding heat of the Mine, did work without any cloaths, not having so much as a shirt upon their naked bodies) that Mineral vapours did frequently arise from the center of the earth, and extinguish their lights, and themselves also, if they did not make haste away: and that, some time af∣ter, when they entred the Pit, they should find those damps or vapours coagulated into a mass to the sides of the wall; which with a gentle touch, would be fluid, as oil. Whence it may safely be inferred, that the vapour is the more remote matter of Me∣tal, but the sulphureous and mercurial juice, the more near matter of the same. Also I have at pre∣sent with me, mineral Stones (from the same Mine, and others) which either the vapour, or such an unctuous humid mineral juice hath penetrated; and in some of them is plainly to be seen, a crude matter, not sufficiently cocted; in others mode∣rately cocted, from one pound of which, ʒvj. of pure silver may be taken, and about ℈ss. of Gold. In o∣thers is matter perfectly decocted, so as the silver

is visible on the superficies, and in one vein shoot∣ings of pure gold may be beheld. Although there be some, who, by reason of certain frivolous rea∣sons, deny Mercury and sulphur to be the matter of metal; yet Phylosophers, who have experience in metals, believe the same, and that such a matter is found in all Mines and veins of the earth, do with one consent witness. With whose opinion, the judgment of all Miners, Melters, and tryers of Meals agree. Likewise Physicians know, that all diseases of such as labour in Mines, arise from the admission of crude, sulphureous, and mercurial spi∣rits into the body: and that metals in external af∣fects, perform the same that Mercury doth. Yea, that all metals, with no great labour, may be redu∣ced into Argentvive, and Argentvive into all metals, is well known to Phylosophers.

Calcination of Saturn.
Melt Lead in a vessel of earth or Iron, and purge it from its Scoria's. Then encrease the fire, that it may be red hot in the vessel, continually stir•ing it with an Iron spatula, until it be reduced to a Calx, which if sifted, and afterward longer reverberated, will be Minium.

Calcination of Jupiter.
℞. English Tin, not sophisticate (which you may know by its weight and malleation) four pound, melt it in a pot with a flat bottom, and purge it from its Scoria's. Then inject a little salt Armoniack; and encreasing the fire til the pot be red hot, cast in one pound and half of prepared salt,
Page 100
so long stirring it with an Iron spatula, as until it be reduced to a Calx; which afterward, by violent fire must be reduced to a body, and separated from the impure and blackned salt.

Again mix it with one pound of prepared salt, and calcine it as above. Wash the Calx from all its saltness, and reverberate it for eight days, that it may be turned to an Alcohol: From which, by af∣fusion of Alkalisate vinegar, a salt is extracted, di∣gestion for certain days being adhibited, and the matter afterward filtred and coagulated.

Otherwise.
Jupiter may also be calcined, as Saturn, without any addition of salt. Or else they may be calcined in a wooden Bowl well coated with clay; if they be first melted in a crucible, and from thence pour∣ed into the said wooden vessel, and there be stirred about very swiftly.

Diaphoretick Jupiter.
℞. Of English Tin filed, or as above calcined either in a vessel of wood, or earth not glazed, ℥ij. Of Mercury sublimed ℥•i•j. Mix them, and by Re∣tort distil them in fire of sand, applying a Receiver half full of water; and when it begins to distil, give a moderate fire of suppression, until all the Liquor shall be distilled, and precipited into the water. But what shall be sublimed to the neck of the Re∣tort, scrape off, and digest it with what is distilled for one night. The water impregnated with spirit of vitriol, separate and keep it for use: but dry the Cax; of which the dose is from four grains to six.

Page 101
CHAP. XV. Of Calcination of Mars, and Venus.
Calcination of Mars.
℞. Of filings of Steel by Ventilation and Ablu∣tion, diligently cleansed from filth two pound, of prepared salt three pound, mix them, and in a pot for one day natural reverberate them. Then take out the mass, and grind it, afterward dissolve it in hot water, and wash it so often as until it be freed from all saltness and terrestreity. Which being done by grinding and sifting, reduce it to a subtile powder. Then again reverberate it, for eight or ten days, until the superficies be converted to a most red Crocus, and impalpable; which removed, re∣verberate the remaining part so oft, and so long, as till it be all reduced to a Crocus.

Note, That the vessel containing the Limature, must have a cover, that no coals or ashes may fall into the Crocus, yet the cover must be so placed, as between it and the vessel, the flame may have free access.

Another way.
Crocus Martis is also prepared by putting smal plates of Steel red hot, and sparkling into rolls of sulphur, by the force of which they melt, and fall down in smal grains, into a subjacent vessel half full of cold water, or vinegar. Dry the grains, and grind them to a most subtile powder, and if you will, you may reverberate them to a Crocus in the space of six or eight hours.

Page 102
It hath virtue of expelling, opening, and atte∣nuating; which filings of Steel also acquire, being reduced to a most pure Alcohol, by the benefit of sim∣ple water.

Otherwise.
Dissolve ℥j. of filings of Iron in ℥viij. of Aqua f•rtis, and distil off the Aqua fortis by Alembick in sand. So you will have ℥jss. of most red Crocus.

Otherwise.
Reverberate filings of Mars, with a like quantity of beaten sulphur, for four or five hours. It hath an aperitive virtue; but it will have a grea∣ter, if it be calcined for half an hour, or thereabout with double its own weight of sulphur beaten smal.

Another Calcination of Mars.
Digest filings of Iron or Steel in vinegar thrice distilled, until it be coloured. Pour off what is tin∣ged, and pour on other fresh vinegar so often, as un∣til it shall have extracted all the Tincture. Filter the evacuations, and distil them, and in the bottom will remain a red powder, which must be reverbera∣ted for one day natural into an impalpable Crocus. It hath virtue of constringing.

Otherwise.
Crocus Martis is also made with oil of sulphur thus. Pour oil of sulphur and spirit of wine, of each an equal part into an Iron spoon, and by gen∣tle heat evaporate it, till the humidity be consu∣med:
Page 103
afterward if it settle for certain days, you will find a most subtle powder, which keep in a a Phial firmly closed; that no air may enter, be∣cause it will resolve if exposed to the air.

If some grains of this be given in broth, or other convenient Liquor, it will be a true Restorative of the Liver, helping in all diseases thence arising, as the Dropsie, and such like.

Calcination of Venus.
Venus is dissolved in Aqua fortis, and by affusion of warm water, with a smal piece of Iron or Silver, it is precipited to the bottom of the vessel. Or else plates of Copper are reverberated in a Potters for∣nace into burnt brass, which with easie contrition is reduced to a Calx. Or smal plates are put into a crucible, with an equal part of sulphur beaten smal; making S. S. S. that is, lay upon lay, and so reverberated into Aes ustum.

CHAP. XVI. Of Calcination of Luna, and Sol.
Calcination of Luna.
DIssolve Luna in Aqua fortis, and by affusion of salt water, pre••pit it into a bright Calx (to the bottom of the vessel) which by frequent pour∣ing on of common water, must be edulcorated, and then dryed. ℞. Of this Calx ℥j. of prepared salt, ℥ij. of Salt-armoniack ʒij. Mix these well in a glass mortar, and reverberate the mixture, for eight
Page 104
days. Afterward extract a tincture with spirit of wine Alkalisate, and circulate it. It is profitable in Mania, and other diseases of the Brain.

Calcination of Sol.
Make Amalgamation of Sol, by purifyed cement, with six parts of Mercury, as follows. ℞. A thin plate of gold, and cut it into exceeding smal pieces; which put into a crucible placed in such an heat, as the gold may only be red hot; then in another crucible make your Mercury hot, and presently pour it out upon the gold, and mix them with a stick, that they may be incorporated. Then cool it, and having admirably well washed the mass, pass it through a skin, and press out the superfluous Mercury, that the mass may remain conveniently hard, which must be long ground, with double its weight of prepared salt in a glass mortar, so as no∣thing of the Amalgama appear. Put all this in∣to a strong crucible, covered, and luted, only a lit∣tle hole left in the Luting, and reverberate it for one day natural; taking great heed, that the gold melt not. This being done, you will find your gold calcined, but the Mercury and salt vanished. Then a new amalgamate your gold, and pass it through a skin as above; and mix it with double its weight of sulphurvive, grinding them very well together. After which, put the mixture into an earthen glazed pan, pour•ng on it the best spirit of wine, unto which set fire, that it may burn upon it. After the deflagration of which, and of the sulphur, you will find the gold spungeous, and much atte∣nuated, especially, if the same process be twice or thrice repeated. Some grind the Amalgama with
Page 105
flowers of sulphur, and having put it in a crucible placed in burning coals, they continually stir it with an Iron rod, until the Mercury fly away in fume.

But before gold can be calcined with Philoso∣phick calcination, it must be cemented, as is said either with vulgar, or Regale cement. The vulgar cement, is thus made.

℞. Of flour of Tiles, ℥viij. Salt prepared, ℥iiij.

White vitriol ℥ j. Salt-peter, and Aerugo, of each ℥ss.

The Regale cement, which belongs only to most pure gold, is thus made.

℞. Of flour of Tiles, four parts. Salt-armoni∣ack, Salt-gem, and common salt prepared, of each one part. These commixed and united, must be moistned with Urine.

Some make thin plates of gold red hot before they are compounded, and suffer them to cool; that if any defilement adhere to the superficies, it may be consumed, and leave more free access, and ad∣mittance for impression to the sharpness of the medicines. All being duly prepared, sprinkle the powder equally in the cementatory pot, that it may be a finger thick. Then put in your thin plates of gold moistned with urine in such order, and so e∣qually placed, as one may not touch the other; least body cohering to body, the matter be burnt, and by encrease of heat, the edges be melted toge∣ther. Having disposed the first lay of plates in or∣der as above, then on them sprinkle of the medi∣cine again, the thickness of one finger, and so pro∣ceed to lay in more plates, and c••er them; so do∣ing, even to the brim of the 〈◊〉, which must be fill∣ed
Page 106
with the powder, the same thickness as was in the bottom, viz. the thickness of a finger trans∣versed. Lastly, put on the cover, without any spi∣racle, if for vulgar cement: but if for the Regale, the cover must have a smal hole. The fire must be administred to it for twenty four hours, so as the pot may be always red. The work ended, cleanse the plates with an Hares foot from the powders ad∣hering, and wash them in wine, and dry them.

The most perfect cement of all, is that which follows: Melt gold with double its weight of most pure Copper, reduce them to plates or leaves, as thin as paper; which cement for forty or fifty hours in a strong fire; making lay upon lay, as in Regale cement is said with flour of Tiles, common salt, Colcothar, Aerugo, and a little salt armoniack, mix∣ed with strong vinegar. In this Examen, all the Copper vanisheth, the incombustible sulphur, and Tincture thereof remaining in the substance of the gold; according as Geber, in Chap. 18. of forna∣ces, witnesseth; who saith, that from Copper a most clean, tinging, and fixed sulphur is extracted.

Metallick Bezoardick.
Dissolve of most pure gold in Philosophick wa∣ter ʒij. to which add drop by drop of gummose Li∣quor seven times rectifyed ℥j. In mixing these will be great ebulition. Place the vessel upon hot ashes for three or four hours. Then precipitate the matter in common water, and wash it often; Lastly with cordial water, and then dry it. And you will have a stone of wonderful virtue: of which six grains e∣gregiously provokes sweat.

Page 107
Ceraunocryson Diaphoretick.
Dissolve most pure Sol in Phylosophick water, and digest it for one night in sand. Then pour up∣on it oil of Tartar drop by drop, until the ebulition cease, and the Calx of gold be precipited to the bottom; which must be edulcorated with many ab∣lutions, and with most gentle fire dryed. Dose three or four grains.

Of this Diaphoretick, another more excellent may be prepared in this manner.

℞. Of this Ceraunocryson five or six grains, and put it in a smal silver vessel, and on it pour the best rectifyed spirit of wine, which set on fire, and hang a Chrystaline glass with a sufficiently large Orifice over it. As soon as the spirit of wine ceaseth to burn, the Ceraunocryson performs its office, and a certain earthy part will be sublimed to the sides of the glass. Repeat this Labour four or five times, and wash the glass with spirit of wine, that the C•lx may settle to the bottom, which must be dryed. Dose one or two grains.

Page 108
CHAP. XVII. Of Salts.
The way of extracting essential Salts from Herbs, without calcination.
℞. A Great quantity of Carduus benedictus, bruise it in a stone or wooden mortar, afterward in a large vessel, with a great quantity of water boil it, until half be consumed; then strongly express it, and strein the expression. The Colature again boil to the thickness of Liquid honey. This juice of Carduus benedictus put into a glass vessel, and set it in a cold place for certain days; & in the bottom of the vessel, a christaline salt angular, like salt gem, will be generated. From which pour off the juice, wash it with water of Carduus benedictus, and when dryed, diligently keep it. For it is a most excellent Re∣medy in the Pest; if two grains more or less be ex∣hibited in spirit of Carduus benedictus, they abun∣dantly provoke sweat. By the same reason, and in like manner a salt may be extracted from other herbs, which shall in virtue far exceed that which is made of the ashes of herbs.

Essential Salt, Cream, or Chrystals of Tartar.
℞. White Tartar of Montispeliensis, which is the best, reduce it to powder, and in a large brass or iron Kettle boil it with a great quantity of water, until half the water be consumed. Then remove it from the fire, and if you will pass it through Hyp∣pocrates
Page 109
sleeve or a Linnen cloath, into a firm earthen vessel. When it is cold, pour off the water by in∣clination: and the Salt adhering to the sides of the vessel, by frequent affusion of water gather; being separated from the feces.

And again as above, boil it, wash it, separate it from the feces, and dry it. Then reduce it to pow∣der; of which the Dose is ʒj. in a little broth, or appropriate medicine. It hath virtue of breaking thick and tartarous humours, and of opening ob∣structed passages.

Salt, or Askali of Imperatory.
Calcine the herb dryed to a whiteness, extract the Salt with distilled water of the same herb, or else with common water digesting it for one night. Afterward pour off the water by inclination, ta∣king heed you disturb not the feces. Pour on other water the second and third time, digesting and e∣vacuating, without disturbing the feces as before. Then filter and coagulate the three evacuations to∣gether, If the coagulum be not sufficiently white, calcine in a crucible to a redness, taking heed it melt not, then resolve, filter, and coagulate it.

Thus is Salt extracted from all herbs; but in such calcination, the volatile or essential salt pe∣risheth; and the elemental salt only remains.

Salt of Tartar.
Strew or spread Tartar in an earthen unglazed vessel, with a flat bottom, the thickness of one fin∣ger. Afterward reverberate it to a whiteness, for the space of five or six hours, with a fire so moderate
Page 110
to prevent fusion, that the vessel may be but just Red.

The Tartar thus calcined to a whiteness, pour out into common water, digest it, then filter and coagulate.

Salt of Corals.
This is done by digesting Corals beaten smal, in vinegar thrice distilled for one night. Afterward the solution is filtred, and the vinegar evaporated to a dryness. So the salt of Corals remains in the bottom of the vessel.

Its virtues are excellent; for it cleanseth the bloud throughout the whole body, restores the pri∣stine vigour of health; Fluxes of the Womb, and Belly, and Hemroides it stops; It strengthens the heart, and stomach; removes obstructions of the bowels, and dissolves congealed bloud. It is pro∣fitable in the Dropsie, Convulsions, Paralysie, Stone, Suffocation of the Matrix, if exhibited with water convenient against preter-natural affects. Dose, from ten grains, to ℈j. or ℈ij. with respect to age, and the vehemency of the disease.

Salt of Colcothar.
The Colcothar is put into Rain water, and the salt by digestion for one day or night comes forth into the same, is filtred, and coagulated. If the re∣maining redness be five or six times again calcined, and the saltness every time washed out; it at length will be sweet, and is called sweetness of vitriol, which will be the greater, if the Colcothar be pre∣pared of vitriol of Venus, and it is a present Reme∣dy in malignant Ulcers.

Page 111
Vomative Vitriol.
Dissolve white Vitriol in common water, filter and coagulate it; repeat the same Labour the se∣cond time: After which, dissolve it in Rose wa∣ter and coagulate.

Otherwise.
Dissolve white Vitriol in distilled water, filter it, & in a glass vessel exhale the water, until it contract a skinnyness. Then set the vessel in a cold place, that it may be Crystallized. The Crystals separated, the remaining humour evaporate, and again set to Cry∣stallize as above; and this Labour repeat the second time. Thirdly, dissolve the Chrystals in Rose water, and as before exhale and Crystallize; then with gentle fire dry the Crystals.

Dose from ℈j. to ʒss. in a draught of Wine or Beer, or with Conserve of Roses. It happily ope∣rates in Fevers, Affects of the Ventricle, Catharrs, Maw-worms, Pest, &c.

Salt, or Vitriol of Mars.
℞. Spirit of vitriol, or oil of sulphur per Campa∣ne, although not rectifyed ℥j. With this mix ℥ij. of common water. Unto this mixtion, add ℥j. of fi∣lings of Iron; all which, in a close vessel, place in hot ashes, that it may boil very gently, for the space of six hours. Afterward permit it to cool; and in the vessel you will find vitriol generated green and splendid; which is dissolved in hea•, and in cold coagulated.


Salt, or Vitriol of Venus.
Reduce calcined Copper, or scales of Copper to a subtile powder, which digest in distilled vinegar for one day natural. The tinged vinegar by incli∣nation pour off, and repour on other, so often as til it be no more tinged. The evacuations filter and evaporate, or distil off three parts; what remains in the bottom of the vessel, set in a cold place; and so a green, obscure, shining vitriol, will be gene∣rated.

Otherwise.
Plates of Copper, with a like quantity of sul∣phur beaten, as is said in calcination of Venus, are reduced to a subtile powder; and in an earthen pot with the beaten sulphur, are calcined; by a continued stirring the mixtion with a rod of Copper, til all the sulphur be burnt. The Calx again is ground, and with an eighth part of its own weight of sulphur bea∣ten smal, calcined. Then is it again ground, as be∣fore, and project into hot water, being often stirred with a stick or Copper rod, until the Calx be setled to the bottom, and the water wax cold; which be∣ing filtred, is evaporated to a fourth part, and put in a cold place to produce Azure Crystals, or else by evaporation coagulated.


Salt of Saturn.
Put the Calx of Saturn, or Minium, in distilled vinegar or the phlegm thereof; digest it for one day natural, often stirring it: then evacuate the Menstruum by inclination, and pour on other until all the Saltness of Saturn be abstracted. Filter the evacuations, and in ashes or sand coagulate them. If vinegar be the third time distilled from Salt of Saturn, with cohobations; and afterward spirit of Wine be poured on, and thrice cohobated: the Salt acquires so admirable a virtue in healing di∣vers Diseases; as if six grains be given in white Wine in the Pest, it cures the sick in twenty four hours. In the Dropsie three grains are given in white Wine four days together. In the Cholick six grains with whitewine. In the Leprosie also six grains, in water of Fumitory, continually for eigh∣teen days together. This Sugar inwardly taken, by its coldness, doth also extinguish Venereal Lust; and is therefore profitable for those who are devo∣ted to a single and Virgin Life. Externally used, it wonderously operates in malignant Ulcers, Corro∣sive, and Cancrous; Cancer, Woolf, and such like. Also it is a most excellent Remedy against putrid∣ness of the mouth, and Ring-worms, Blastings, In∣flammations, Tumors, and red Pimples of the face, if applyed with convenient Oils or Waters.

Page 114
CHAP. XVIII. Of Flowers.
Flowers of Benzoin.
GRind Benzoin, and put it into a round pot, which close with a double brown paper, wrapt up in manner of Hyppocrates sleeve; and administer fire apt for sublimation, gathering the snow like flores often.

These in the Asthma, and all diseases of the Lungs, are very profitable. Dose ℈ss. in conve∣nient Liquors or Syrups. It is also a principal Re∣medy, for bunches, and redness of the face.

Flowers of Sulphur.
These are prepared, by mixing equal parts of Sulphur and Colcothar perfectly rubifyed and dry∣ed; and so mixed by subliming, as shall be taught in sublimation of Antimony; (but this operation is performed in the space of eight hours, nor is so much fire required, as in Antimony.) They must the second time be sublimed with Sugar candid a∣lone, that they may be more efficacious in the Asth∣ma, and other affects of the Lungs. Also this pre∣paration of flowers, is made by mixing one pound of the flowers of sulphur, with one pound and ½ of flour of Tiles. Or by adding to one pound of sul∣phur, of Colcothar, and salt decrepitate, of each ½ a pound. Or else per se, they are sublimed without any other addition.

Page 115
These flowers do powerfully resist putrefaction; and therefore in the Pest, the weight of ʒj. either in Carduus benedictus, Treacle, or Syrup of Citron, or else in water of Melissa, is profitably used, as well for Preservation, as Curation. They also pre∣serve from Fevers, and Epilepsie. In Lues Venerea, they provoke sweat: In all diseases needing exsic∣cation, they help; and are very beneficial in all Af∣fects of the Lights, the Asthma, the Cough, as well of long continuance, as what is newly taken; Catarrhs flowing to the breast, Pleurisie, Cholick, Imposthums, and Putrefactions of the body.

Flowers of Antimony.
Choice Stibium reduced to a subtile powder, and put into an earthen pot, with a blind head super-po∣fited, in the top of which must be an hole, for ex∣haling the humid spirits, and a moveable stoppel fitted to the hole; must be sublimed according to Art, administring fire gradually for ten or twelve hours, for receiving white flores; but for Citrine, twenty four hours, and for the red flores, thirty six hours, continuing, and encreasing the fire.

Sublimate Mercury.
℞. Mercury purged with prepared Salt and Vi∣negar, and passed through a skin. Vitriol rubifyed. Prepared Salt, of each one pound. Salt Nitre ℥iiij.

Grind and mix them together in a stone Mor∣tar, with a little Vinegar, so long as until the Mer∣cury no more appear Living. All being well mix∣ed, put into a cucurbit Luted; with an Alembick,
Page 116
having a short neck annexed, with Recipient ad∣joyned; administring fire by degrees artificially, for eight or ten hours. The Aqua fortis, which first comes forth keep. For the second sublimation, to one pound of sublimate, add of Salt prepared ℥xij. and of Vitriol ℥iiij. If the third time, sublime it with salt only.

A sweet Sublimate.
℞. Of Mercury purged as above, ℥vj.
Mercury sublimate, ℥viij.
Grind and mix them together with one pound, of Colcothar, well and perfectly rubifyed. Then sub∣lime the mixture from a convenient vessel, placed in sand for the space of five or six hours. The second time, sublime it with ½ pound of Colcothar. The third time, per se only. Instead of Colcothar, pre∣pared Salt may be used, if any one be so minded. The sublimations ended, reduce the mass into a sub∣tile powder, which wash with Rose water, and dry it. Dose, from twenty grains, to thirty in Lues Ve∣nerea.

Otherwise.
℞. Of Mercury sublimate, ℥vj.
Silver foliate, ℥ij.
By grinding mix these together, and sublime them in sand. The vessel cooled, separate the vo∣latile part; and grind what is fixed, and Crystaline; and mix it with the feces residing in the bottom. The second and third time subliming as above, and
Page 117
in the end washing the sublimate when dryed, keep it for use. Dose, from six grains, to eight or ten. It purgeth gently.

Manna of Mercury.
Dissolve Mercury in Aqua fortis. Afterward pre∣cipit it in Sea water; and from a cucurbit placed in sand, distil it, toward the end encreasing the fire, that the Mercury may be sublimed to the sides of the vessel. The vessel cooled, and the feces resi∣ding in the bottom of the vessel, removed, gather the sublimate apart. And again in the same water dissolve and distil it, as above. So will you have the Celestial Eagle, more white than snow, the use whereof is chiefly in Venereal distempers. Dose, from ten to fifteen grains.

It purgeth only by the inferiour parts.

CHAP. XIX. Of Magisterys.
A Magistery is, when the mixt body is so prepa∣red by Chymical artifice without extraction; as all its homogeneal parts are preserved, and de∣duced to a more noble degree, either of substance or quality, the exteriours of impurity being segre∣gated.

Page 118
Magistery of Tartar.
℞. Oil of Tartar, made of the resolved and pu∣rifyed Salt, ℥iiij. Spirit of Vitriol ℥i. which instil upon the Oil of Tartar, into a large glass, drop by drop; and it will be a most white Coagulum. The supernatant humidity remove by gentle heat, unto the dryness of salt: upon which distil spirit of wine three or four times. And so you will have a white fixed Vitriolate Tartar.

Its use is in all obstructions of the bowels; in the Stone, Nephritick dolour, Jaundies, retention of the Menses, melancholy, hardness of the Spleen, Fevers, and the Dropsie, if conveniently adhibited.

Dose, from ℈ss. to ℈j.

Magistery of Pearls, and Corals.
Dissolve Corals or Pearls beaten smal, in water made very sharp with spirit of vitriol. Digest it for one night, and upon the Solution, first filtred, inject oil of Tartar drop by drop, til it be like milk. Then pour upon it common water, and digest it; and so it will be precipited in bright powder to the bottom of the vessel. The water must be separated, and other poured on three or four times, until all the Acrimony be separated. Then dry the powder, and keep it for use.

Margarits in temperament, and virtue, do very much emulate Gold; and therefore do comfort the vital spirits of the heart; and remove palpitation of the heart, deliquiums of the mind, and Vertigo's. And ought deservedly to be mixed with all Cordi∣al medicaments. They excite Venus, resist melan∣choly,
Page 119
dealbate the Teeth, comfort the memory, and corroborate the young in the womb. They dry up all depraved humours in the body; and pre∣serve all parts of the humane body from corruption. The virtues of Corals, are spoken of in the Salt of them.

Magistery, Milk, Cream, or Butter of Sulphur.
℞. Of flowers of Sulphur, ℥j.
Salt of Tartar, ℥iij.
Mix them, and pour upon them of common wa∣ter three pound, digest all in sand for one day na∣tural; with such heat, as toward the end the water may almost boil: afterward filter it hot through brown paper, and upon it pour a sufficient quantity of distilled vinegar; so the milky Cream of sulphur will by little and little settle to the bottom. Sepa∣rate the Dissolvent by inclination, and with fre∣quent ablutions edulcorate it. Lastly, digest it with Cordial water, and dry it. And thus will you have a most white Milk, or Cream of sulphur: Which, is the Balsom of the primogeneal humidity. It comforts the natural vigour, purifies the bloud, Diseases of the Lungs, as the Asthma, Cough, and Ptysick it cures. In drying up Catarrhs, in remo∣ving windinesses of the Stomach; in the Sciatica, and Gont, it is commended as exceeding profita∣ble. It also is an egregious preservative from the Apoplexy, Pest, Leprosie, and Convulsions of the Nerves. In Hectick Fevers, by comforting it pro∣fits. So much only of the powder, being mixed with specifick waters, as shall be sufficient for tinging

them with a white colour. One spoonful is given in the morning, and before exhibition, accurately mixed with the humid vehicle.

Otherwise.
It is also made, by mixing sulphur beaten, with clean sand or glass beaten smal, of each equal parts: and by distilling by Retort in a moderate fire, ap∣plying a Recipient containing distilled vinegar. And so the distilled substance of the sulphur will be precipited into a white powder, which dry, and keep for use.

This Antidote Prince Auraicus used against the Pest.

Otherwise.
Milk of sulphur is likewise made, by mixing sul∣phur and sand with Aqua vitae, and distilling it in ashes by Retort. It is good against malignant Ul∣cers, venereal Cancers, Measels, Warts, &c.

CHAP. XX. Of solid Tinctures, and Panacaea's.
Tincture of Antimony.
MAke a Lexivium of ashes of Harts ease, Calx-vive, and common ashes, of each a like quan∣tity. In which dissolve Liver of Antimony, digest∣ing it in such an heat of sand for one night, as it may almost boil. Separate the Tincture, and filter it. And, if you please, by vinegar, precipit it into a yellow powder, and by many ablutions edulcorate it.

Page 121
Panacaea of Vitriol.
Dissolve blew vitriol in hot distilled Rain water, which, being the third time filtred, by gentle heat of Baln. evaporate to a skinnyness. Then pour the remaining Liquor hot into a Leaden vessel, in which you must first place smal sticks transversed. And so leave it in a cold place for three days, that it may produce green Crystals, which separate, evaporate the remaining Liquor, and put it again into the same vessel to be Crystallized; repeating the same La∣bour so oft, as until all the Liquor shall be Crystal∣lized.

This vitriol, of the colour of an Emrauld, by these Solutions, and Coagulations, perfectly purifyed, reduce to a powder very subtile; which in heat, not exceeding the heat of Sol in the Summer season, dry in the space of five or six days, until within, and without, it appear candid. Then dissolve it in di∣stilled water, filter it, what is undissolvible, cast away; coagulate it in a Leaden vessel, and dry it to a whiteness in gentle heat, as above. Repeating this operation unto the third time, or until in dissoluti∣on, nothing remain undissolved. This candid vi∣triol put into a firm vessel, sealed with Hermes Seal: which so place in gentle fire of ashes, as the heat may not exceed the Summers heat. The tenth day, it will wax yellow; the twentieth day, it will be reduced to an Alcohol, and be most red like bloud. Break the vessel, and put it into an high cucurbit, and upon it pour vinegar thrice distilled, so much as may stand above it, at least four fingers. Apply a blind head, and digest it in a warm Baln. for four days, every day stirring it with a clean wooden spa∣tula.
Page 122
The vessel cooled, what is tinged pour off, and pour on other vinegar, digesting, stirring, and eva∣cuating it as above; repeating the same Labour, til the vinegar shall attract no more Tincture. What shall remain in the bottom, reject as use∣less.

The ringed vinegar by gentle heat of Baln. distil to a dryness. In the bottom will remain a Red powder, which also the third time in the same vine∣gar, dissolve, digest, evacuate, distil, and dry. Then put your most Red powder into a Retort, with a large Receiver annexed, administring fire gradual∣ly. First the spirit comes forth yellow, afterward most red: continue the fire in that degree, until the spirits appear white. Then cease distilling, and c•ol the vessel; in the bottom of which, you will find a perspicuous, pure, and most bright earth; which, with the above said spirits, imbibe by little and little, digesting, and imbibing, until the spirit and soul be restored to their proper body.

Then coct this blessed earth in a vessel Herme∣tically sealed, and placed in heat of Athanor, for for∣ty days, until it be fixed.

Dose, from three grains to five, especially in de∣plorate diseases.

A Solar Diaphoretick Panacaea. Stomachus Stru∣thionis of Paracelsus.
℞. Of Phylosophick water, one pound.
Mercury sublimate, ℥ij.
Mix them, and in this water dissolve only so much Mercury as can well be d•ssolved in it. The dissolution slowly proceeds, therefore is there need
Page 123
of digestion. To the solution, add of Gummose Li∣quor ℥ij. mix and distil them, and that distillation reiterate twice or thrice, until after the distillation, no feces be remaining.

In all these distillations, sublimate Mercury as∣cends, which every time re-put into the water.

With this water, the Quintessence of Metals, Minerals, and Marcasites is extracted.

Spirit of Wine Tartarisate.
Distil the dryed feces of wine, after the manner as Aqua fortis is distilled. The water and oil-sepa∣parate, and keep. In the mean while, calcine the feces to a whiteness, which, with the above said oil, imbibe; and as before, distil and calcine; repeat∣ing this Labour so often, as until the oil be clear as water, and sweet, not savouring of adustion. So you will have a Tartarisate Quintessence, which removes all corrosiveness from Metals.

Sublimation of Sol.
℞. Of Sol purged with Antimony, and cut into very thin plates, or instead thereof
Of foliate Sol, ℥ij.
Of Stomachus Struthionis, ℥iiij.
Dissolve and distil by Alembick with strong fire toward the end, even to sublimation, that the glass may be red hot. The vessel cooled, cohobate, and distil it thrice, every time separating what shall be sublimed. The fourth time distil away the phlegm gently, and anew pour on other ℥iiij. and do as be∣fore, until the whole water be consumed, and all
Page 124
the body shall be sublimed, unto the whiteness of the exalted Eagle; that is, of sublimate Mercury. Then praise GOD. Again reposit the whole sublimate with the phlegm, distilling away the phlegm, without ascension of the spirit.

Mercurius Vitae.
This is made, as in the Archidoxes of Paracelsus in the Book of Secrets, with one part of Antimony, and one part (or according to others, two parts) of sublimate Mercury. Afterward it is rectifyed, and dissolved upon a Marble or Table of glass; then it is congealed, by distilling away the phlegm, and a little of the acidness; until drops falling in the phlegm, begin to be precipited. Then the Recep∣tory is removed, and another applyed, and distilla∣tion urged with moderate fire. This Labour must be four times repeated; and the fourth time it will be a clear and white mass.

The Conjunction of sublimate Sol, and Mer∣curius Vitae.
℞. Of Sol sublimate, or the oil of the same afore∣said, without phlegm one part.
Of Mercurius Vitae clarifyed two parts.
Mix them together, and with gentle fire distil the spirit. What shall remain coagulated, dissolve upon a Marble. Repeating the Solution, and Coa∣gulation the third time. Then upon this matter pour two parts of the Tartarisate Quintessence, distilling it by Alembick to a dryness. Repour on other, and distil it, doing this so often, as until the essence
Page 125
shall be distilled off sweet, as when first poured on. Which being done, upon one part of this medicine pour four parts of spirit of wine without phlegm; digesting it until the spirit be consumed. So you will have the perfect conjunction of Sol, and Mer∣curius Vitae. The Dose of which is four drops in white Wine. It is exceeding profitable in despe∣rate diseases, and in those wherof the cause is occult.

The End of the Second Book.
Page 126

TYROCINIƲM CHYMICƲM: OR, CHYMICAL ESSAYS.
Book the Third.



CHAP. I. Of Quintessence.
Of the Quintessence of humane Bloud.

THE denomination of Quintessence, is variously taken. Sometimes it signifies any Chymical Species, which hath put off the Elementary grosseness of matter, and corpulent feces: and is opposed to a Magistery, in which almost the whole bulk of its substance re∣mains, only it is exalted, and purifyed. Sometimes also, as we here take it, it denotes an Aethereal, Celestial, and most subtile substance; taken from the three principles of any mixt body dissolved, freed by various Chymical Operations from their Elementary, Sensible, Corruptible, and Mortal
Page 127
quality, and coagulated either into one spiritual body, or a corporeal spirit. It is by some called Medicine, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉; that is, by reason of its e∣minency. By others Elixir, by reason of those fa∣mous virtues, it exerciseth in preservation of the humane body, from sundry diseases. By others, Heaven, for a double reason; First, because, as Heaven consists not of the four Elements, but is made of a certain Aethereal matter, and as it were a fift Element; and is not obnoxious to corrupti∣on; so also the true Quintessence is separated from all feces of Elements; and although it be not plain∣ly incorruptible, yet it is reduced to that subti∣lity, tenuity, and spiritual simplicity, that it seems to contain in it self nothing of heterogeneity, by which it should be corrupted. Secondly, because, as Heaven powerfully acts on these sublunary things, contributing Life to all, and conserving them: so also this Quintessence conserves the health of the humane body, prolongs youth, retards Age, and expelleth every disease.

The Quintessence of humane bloud, is in this manner prepared. ℞. A great quantity of the bloud of sound men in the flower of their Age. Put it in Circulatory vessels of a convenient magnitude, which place in B. M. continually boiling until the Dragon shall have devoured his own tail. The vessels cooled, take out the matter, which will be like Li∣ver, and cut it to pieces very smal. And in high Cucurbits, with the same heat of Baln. by distilla∣tion separate the aqueous element or phlegm. The distilled Liquor repour upon its earth, and set it in the former circulatory vessels, in a boiling Baln. for ten days as before. Repeating the same process five times; and the last time keep all the distilled
Page 128
phlegm. The vessels being cooled, take out the matter, and put it into a large Retort, applying a capacious Receiver; in ashes distil off the air by fire gradually encreased. The smal and thin clouds in the recipient dissolving, intend the fire so, as the Element of fire may also come forth in form of Red or Purple oil. Toward the end a little Salt armoni∣ack will sublime it self. The vessels being cold, se∣parate the air or spirit from the fire or oil; either by gentle distillation in Baln. or by a Separatory. The spirit with the Salt armoniack, again pour upon the feces, digest them for three days, then by a new Re∣tort distil off the spirit, toward the end giving fire apt for sublimation, that the whole spiritual salt, or at least the greater part thereof may be sublimed, and mixed with the spirit in the Receptory. Again pour new spirit upon the feces, digest and distil as above; so often, as until the earth be deprived of its soul; which you shall know, if when put upon a burning plate, it fume not.

Note, That before the spirit be animated, it must be seven times rectifyed, every time separating the phlegm and feces: and part thereof reserved for preparing the dissolvent, as afterward shall be spo∣ken.

Calcine the black blacker than black in a rever∣beratory fornace with moderate fire, in a vessel eve∣ry where closed, for the space of five days, until the blackness be turned to a yellowish whiteness, and so into a red colour. Then will the earth be apt for re∣ceiving its animate spirit. Digest it by Baln. as long as shall be sufficient, afterward by gentle distillation separate the insipid humidity. Which being done; revert upon the earth a ninth part of its animate spirit, digest and distil as before. Then give it the
Page 129
eighth part of the animate spirit; afterward the se∣venth, the sixth, the fifth, the fourth part; so long with the fourth part imbibing it as til the earth be encrea∣sed to double of its own weight, before imbibition. And this is what Avicen saith, know, that the earth must be nourished, first with a little of its own water, and afterward with more, as is seen in edu∣cation of Infants. Therefore often grind the earth, and leisurely imbibe the same, from eight days to eight days. Decoct it, and afterward moderately calcine it in fire. And let not this Labour seem te∣dious to thee, in so many reiterations; for the earth brings not forth fruit, without frequent moistnings. Yet be wary least you too hastily imbibe the earth, but do it leisurely, by little, and a little, and with long contrition after the earth is dryed. Wherefore in this the weight is diligently to be observed, viz. least too much dryness or superfluous humidity cor∣rupt the work. And much coct it by assation, as by imbibing the dissolution requires. Thus far Avicen. Whence also Geber saith: There•ore from the mul∣tiplicit reiteration of imbibition and assation, the greater part of its aqueousness is taken away; and the residue by sublimation is removed.

Put the aforesaid earth into an high cucurbit, ha∣ving an Alembick, and receiver annexed; the jun∣ctures being very firmly closed, so as nothing may respire; give to it fire of ashes for the space of three days, until the clean and white fume ascend, and cleave to the sides of the cucurbit like Talck. This is that which Clangor Buccina saith,† therefore as much as you can sub∣tiliate that body, and coct it with clean Mercury; and when the body shall have drawn, and concluded
Page 130
in it self some part of the Mercury; subtiliate it with as quick and strong fire as you can, until it shall ascend in the likeness of powder most white as snow, adhering to the sides of the vessel. But the ashes re∣maining in the bottom, is the feces, and vituperate Scoria to be cast away, having nothing of life in it.

Of the aforesaid Meteorisate Mercury ℞. ℥j. Mix it with ℥vij. of the rectifyed spirit not animate. Digest it for two dayes in B••n. then distil it by ashes; afterward by Baln. with repeated cohobati∣ons, until no feces be left. Then circulate it for forty days. Its use is for extracting Tinctures of Me•als, and stones. Of the same Mercury and its oil, is made an Elixir for expelling the most despe∣rate diseases; in this manner. ℞. Of this Mercu∣ry ℥j. unto which add an eighth part of its own weight, of its proper oil rectifyed; decoct them in hea of Athanor for eight days: afterward with a sixt part, and then with a fift part, reiterating the former labour so often, as until the matter become thick as syrup, and by decoction will be no further hardned. After this digest it forty days, and it will be a most red stone; of which the Dose is one grain or two in appropriate Liquor.

CHAP. II. Of the Quintessence of Wine.
IN circulatory vessels of a just magnitude, digest a good quantity of rich wine in horse dung for a mo∣neth. Then in high cucurbits distil off the spirit, in B. M. which afterward rectifie seven times, each time separating all its phlegmatick humour. Dist•l∣ling it so, as in the seven times, from forty pound of
Page 131
wine, you may separate one pound more spiritual •an the other (for what is distilled between the spi∣•it and the phlegm, is Aqua ardens.) Keep the spi∣•it in a glass vessel (of such a magnitude as it may be •alf full) firmly closed, that noth•ng may respire in 〈◊〉 cold place. In the mean while distil the remain∣•ing phlegm to the consistency of Liquid honey. What is distilled off revert upon the feces; and again by gentle heat of Baln. draw off three parts. Then take out the cucurbit, and set it in a cold place, that the matter may Crystalize; the Crystals washed from all filth, so often dissolve and coagu∣late, as until they resemble the Ice of most pure wa∣ter. Now, if you desire by force of Art, to have a fat and combustible oil from wine, distil the p•legm, separated from the Crystals in Baln. unto the thick∣ness of Liquid honey: afterward in a retort placed in sand, force it with strong fire. First comes forth a water mixed with yellow oil, then a red oil; Last∣ly Rosin.

Unto the Crystals beaten very smal, pour the spi∣rit above reserved; digest them in Baln. for three days, afterward distil off the spirit in sand: repeat∣ing the same process so often, as until the spirit be perfectly impregnated with its proper soul, and the •ody made so very dry, as if put upon a glowing •late, it will yield no fume. Then on the body, ••rst calcined according to Art, revert an eighth ••rt of its own weight of the animate spirit, digest •nd dist•l it as before, then give it a sixth part of the ••irit; afterward a fift, and then a fourth, so often •ontinuing the imbibition with a fourth part, as un∣••l the greater part of the body put upon a burning •ate, shall vanish into air. Then is fulfilled that •hich Morienus saith: This also it behoves thee to
Page 132
know, that the soul soon hath ingress into its own body, which with another body, can by no means be conjoyned. Having this sign, cover the vessel, and to it placed in ashes, administer fire for the space of two days, until the vegetable sulphur ad∣here to the sides of the vessel like Talck. Of this sulphur ℞. ℥j. Of the pure spirit ℥ iij. Mix and di∣gest them for one day natural, then distil them in ashes, cohobating often, until the whole body shall ascend. After which, twice distil it in a boiling Baln. and circulate it for sixty days. And having se∣parated the Hypestasis (which will adhere about the bottom of the Pellican) keep the Quintessence of wine for curing infinite diseases, to be used both in∣ternally and externally.

Also this Quintessence of wine may be perfected in a shorter space of time. Yea when I did this, in the presence and sight of certain of my disciples, in the space of five weeks I finished it: and with the same extracted a most red Tincture of Gold. For, as Geber witnesseth, there are many ways to the ac∣complishing one effect, and one intent: But

In this place, I can never sufficiently admire, why French and Germane wine circulated, have not that admirable odour, which Baptista Porta attributes to Neapolitan wine, in these words.—Then open the mouth of the vessel, and if such an admirable fragrancy issue out, as with it nothing may be com∣pared; know that you are come to the desired end. But if the odour or colour answer not, close the ves∣sel again; and re-place it to be circulated, until you shall have the aforesaid sign. Nor is the Italian spirit of wine endued with such an odour, as Rubens testifies. For he in the second Chap. of the second Sect. on of his book of distillation, in this manner
Page 133
writeth. I would that good Man, and most excel∣len Physician, Eustachius Sancto Severinas, had now lived. For he (not to speak of my own knowledge) could have evinced, by his experience most dili∣gently acquired, that Aqua ardens, if circulated, not only for a moneth, but for two or three moneths; yea, for a whole year, as Raymund prescribes, can never be deduced to that sweetness of odour, but rather will be found more hot, and be rendred more acid; as who so will, may easily prove; and reason it self by observation of the fire and motion, perswades the same. But Raymund did not under∣stand, or intend that of simple and pure Aqua ardens, as some of late have thought; but of that, in which the metallick body was dissolved. For in the se∣cond Canon of the first book, he thus writeth: But this Quintessence so circulated and rectifyed, will not possess such an odour, unless the body be distil∣led in it. Whence it appears, that Porta drew not such a Quintessence of wine from his Labour in the fire, but from the writings of Lully, and John de Ru∣pescissa, evilly understood.

CHAP. III. Of Quintessence of Corals.
FIrst a great quantity of most sharp vinegar, must be distilled with separation of the phlegm, for this work wholly unprofitable. Distilling it nine times upon the former feces, until you shall have about a hundred pound of vinegar most perfectly rectifyed per Baln. Also you must have thirty pound of red Corals, reduced to a most subtile powder; likewise many large vessels with long necks, in e∣very
Page 134
of which one pound of Corals must be put; un∣to them pouring on of vinegar leisurely, and at times, to prevent ebulition, so much as may stand above them four or five fingers: then they must with the vinegar be digested in Baln. for one day natural, or until the vinegar wax sweet, and be in∣vested with a yellow colour. Which being done, pour off the Menstruum, and repour on fresh; re∣peating the same Labour, til what is dissolvible be dissolved. Put the evacuations in high cucurbits, and abstract the Menstruum by heat of Blan. then to every one pound of the salt, pour ℥ij. of vinegar, and distil it; which being done, again add ℥iiij. after ℥vj. and so leisurely, and at times nourish•ng it, and at length diminishing the infurions from ounce to ounce, until the vinegar be distilled off as sharp as it was when first poured on. All the insipid distil∣led phlegm, must be kept. And the salts impreg∣nated with the salt armoniack of vinegar, must be fermented in vapour of an hot Baln. and there left until a strong odour and black colour appear, which are the signs of true putrefaction. When these signs shall appear, put the resolved salts while warm into retorts; because in cold, they will presently be congealed: and by a vaporous B. or ashes, separate the phlegm, until white vapours or fumes shall be seen to arise. Then cease the distillation there, and continue it by sand in a close Reverberatory, until all the spirits shall be come forth, and an oil red as bloud shall issue out drop by drop. Reserve the fe∣ces for the use hereafter mentioned. All the distil∣led Liquor being most odorate, and like Aqua ardens easily conceiving flame, put into high cucurbits, and by gentle heat of Baln. separate from the phlegm; and in a cold place in glasses well closed, keep
Page 135
them. Afterward encrease the fire, and urge the phlegm, which separated from the oil, also set by for use. In the mean while calcine the above reser∣ved feces in fire of Athanor, for the space of five days in a vessel very firmly closed, as Geber in the 50th. Chap. of the first Book, &c. in the following words teacheth. The way of calcination of spirits is, that unto them being nigh to fixation, fire be suc∣cessively administred, and encreased by degrees, that they fly not until they come to be able to abide the greatest fire; and the vessel containing them, must be of glass, round in the bottom, and indifferent thick, and well closed, that it melt not. And, as Lully saith, least inflammation be caused. Or ac∣cording to Alphidius, least the spirits vanish into air, and what is sought after, be not obtained. After∣ward the vessel being open, give fire to it by de∣grees, that the black feces may be made of an Ash colour. From which a salt with the former reserved phlegm, must be extracted, which filter and coagu∣late. Afterward dissolve the same salt in the latter reserved phlegm, until it be pure; then with mode∣rate fire dry it. Of this Salt ℞. ℥ij. digest it in Baln. for three days. Afterward, by gentle heat of Baln. distil off the unsavoury water, which keep apart. Reiterate the same operation, until the salt shall with its proper salt armoniack be impregnated, and augmented to double the weight it was before, or somewhat more; or until the spirit shall be distil∣•ed off from the salt, as sharp and as strong as when first poured on. Then put the salt in a convenient vessel to be sublimed in ashes for two days space, •dministring fire by degrees. So the matter will be •ubl•med to the sides of the vessel, most white like •ow: this is called the true salt armoniack of Phy∣••sophers.


Of this salt armoniack take ℥j. Of the rectifyed spirit ℥iiiij. Mix them together, and digest them for two days. Afterward distil with cohobations, unti• the whole Milk shall ascend with the spirit. This triune matter must be circulated until the exaltaiion shall answer your desire.

Thus you will have the Quintessence of Corals; a Celestial Substance, free from all earthy feces: the Vegetable and Mineral Mercury; the most solid Philosophick KEY, opening what bodies you will, for preparing them into Medicines of admi∣rable virtues; being only known to all true Phy∣losophers.

FINIS.

The TABLE of the Precedent Work.
A
ALchimy defined Page 1
Alcohol defined Page 24
Amalgamation Page 25
Aqua fortis, and the sorts Page 50
B
BAlsoms
Of Cinnamon
Of Sulphur Page 71
Of Saturn Page 72
••z•ardick metallick. Page 106
C
CHymical Medicines
m•st pleasing Page 3
Impress not a depraved disposition Page 15
••m••ed with the vulgar Page 18
〈◊〉•ymist:
•••nation Page 24
••••nation.
Of Common Salt
Of Salt Peter
Of Mineral Crystal Page 81
Of Lapis Prunella
Of Vitriol
Of the Spunge Stone
Of Crystal Page 82
Of Silver Marchasite
Of Antimony Page 84, 85, 87
Of Mercury Page 89
Of Saturn
Of Jupiter Page 99
Of Mars Page 101
Of Venus Page 103
Of Luna ib.
Of Sol Page 104
Crocus of Metals Page 86
Corrosion Page 25
Cementation
Cinefaction Page 26
Cohobation Page 29
Circulation Page 34
D
DIstillation Page 28
by Descent
by Deliquium Page 30
Digestion Page 31
Diaph•retick
Antimony Page 88
Cinnabar Page 96
Ceraun•cryson Page 107

☿ of Venus Page 96
Jupiter Page 100
E
EMpyreuma how correct∣ed Page 10
Extraction Page 27
Extracts
Of Sena
Of Rubarb Page 74
Emetick powder Page 85
Essen•ial Salts
Of Herbs
Of Tartar Page 108
F
F•mi•ation Page 26
F•owers
Of Benzoin
Of Sulphur Page 114
Of Antimony Page 115
L
LUting for Glasses Page 39
Luting of Sapience Page 38
L•udanum Page 76
Liver of Antimony Page 86
M
MAceration Page 33
Menstruum why so called Page 33, 34
Mercurius vitae Page 85, 124
Mercury precipited Page 93 & 97
Mann• of Mercury Page 117
Magisterys
Of Pearls
Of Corals
Of Tartar Page 118
Of Sulphur Page 119
O
OIls of Eggs Page 61
Of Sage
Of Wax Page 62
Of Turpentine
Of Cloves Page 63
Of Tartar per deliquium
Of Amber Page 64
for the Hemi•rania
for the Womb Page 65
Of Tiles
Of Su•phur
Of Salt Page 66
Of Vitriol Page 68
Of Antimony Page 69
P
THe three Princip•• defined, and dem••∣strated Page 20, 21, 22, 23
Precipitation Page 25
Putrefaction Page 34
Panchymagogon Page 75
Q
QUint essence
Of Humane Bloud Page 127
Of Wine Page 130
Of Corals Page 133

R
REverbera•ion Page 26
Rectification Page 29
Rules for distillation Page 42
Regulus of Antimony Page 87
Regulus of ♂ stellate Page 88
S
SOlution Page 19
Stratification Page 25
Sublimation Page 27
Sublimate ☿ Page 115
Su•limate Sol Page 123
Spirits
Of Wine Page 52
Of Wine Tartarisate Page 123
Of Tartar
Of Turpentine Page 53
Of Sulphur
Of Vitriol Page 54
Of Nitre
Of Saturn Page 58
••l•s
Of Tartar Page 109
Of Corals
Of Colcothar Page 110
Of Saturn Page 113
T
TInctures Liquid
Of dry Roses
Of Violets Page 70
Treacle of Germany Page 75
Soft Tinctures
Of Honey
Of Saffron
Of Sugar Page 78
Of Sulphur
Of Coral Page 79
Solid Tinctures
Of Antimony Page 120
Of Vitriol Page 121
V
VInegar distilled and Alkalisate Page 60
Vomative Vitriol
Vitriol of Mars Page 111
Vitriol of Venus Page 112
W
WAters
Of Roses
Of Succory Page 48
Of Cinamon
Of Fennel Page 49
Of Oak
Of Box
Of Juniper
Of Guaiacum ib.
FINIS.


Books sold by Thomas Passenger at the three Bibles on London Bridge.
MArkham's Master Piece. 4to.
Dod on the Commandments.
Academy of Complements
Pichard on Sanctification.
The Spiritual Antidote, by Mr. Tho Doolitell.
The Wise Virgin, or a Narrative of the Life of Mar∣tha Hattfield.
The Book of Palmestry and Phisiognomy in octav.
The Book of Knowledge in three parts, containing Astrology, Physick, and Husbandry, full of va∣riety, both for Profit and Pleasure.
The H•story of Valentine and Orson in 4to.
The Penitent Prodigal, or a gracious Reproof to Pharisaical Saints.

Quote of the Day

“no metal is so base as not to contain a single grain of gold or silver Nature would always change quicksilver that has within itself its own sulphur into gold, if she were not often hindered by some outward impediment, viz., impure, fœtid, and combustible sulphur.”

Anonymous

The Golden Tract Concerning The Stone of the Philosophers

1,019

Alchemical Books

110

Audio Books

354,244

Total visits