A discourse of the medicine called mithridatium declaring the firste beginninge, the temperament, the noble vertues, and the true vse of the same: compiled rather for those which are to vse it, then for the learned.

¶ A BRIEFE DISCOVRSE OF THE MEDICINE called Mithridatium .

WEe doe read in the Romaine histories , that Mithridates a Puisante king of Pontus & Bithinia , for causing all the Romaines in Asia to bee slaine , and the Proconsul Oppius to bee cast in prison , was assaulted by Silla , discomfited by Lucullus , and lastly vtterly vanquished by Pompey the great : and when this valiaunte king perceiued himselfe to be ouercome , and that he was to be taken of his enemies : first he destroyde his wyfe & daughters with poyson , and then tooke the same poyson , desiring rather so to dye , then as a captiue to fal into the hands of his enemyes : But hauing dronken much of the poyson , could not dye therewith , and then caused his seruant Bistocus a frenchman ( as it is written ) to kill him with a sword . Such was the magnanimity of this mighty king to escape the hands of the Romaines , that he might not bee caried to Rome , and in captiue maner be shewed in triumph . For this noble king was not only valiante in warre , but also in phisicall matters very expert , had the knowledg of many hearbes , and making tryall of sundry simples that doe resist poyson in men condemned to dye , as Galen writeth in his first booke de Antidotis , and finding some to remedy the poyson of Spiders , some of Scorpions , some to doe good against the byting of Vipers , others of mad Dogs , many to remedy the poison of hearbes , and so sundry others to help the venime of sundry poisons : he endeuoured to make a mixture of diuerse simples , hoping thereby to haue a ready remedy against all kindes of poison , & the same was termed after his name Mithridatium : wherein he was nothing deceiued . For this noble king in his life time vsed much and often the medicine . And ( as it is written ) being subdued by the Romaines , and making choise rather to dye then to be led captiue to Rome , attempting to kill him selfe with poison , and taking of it great quantity , tooke no harme thereof , for that his body ( as the history saith ) by vse of the medicine altered , & resisted the action of the poison . Notwithstanding his wife and two daughters dyed before his face wich the same poison . Since that time , the efficacy and strength of the medicine , hath in all ages ( euen vnto these our dayes ) bene confirmed . For after that Pompey the great had conquered this valiante king , search made in his Closets , amongst sundry Iuels , many secret medicines to expell diuerse poisons , and to cure other internall diseases , were founde : where also was the description of this medicine . And albeit Pompey , as a martiall man , had greatest care of other matters , yet aduertised what goodnes might come by such secret medicines , commaunded one Pompeius Lineus his libertine , well seene in sciences , to conuert all those medicines written in the Pontike tongue , into latine . And it doth appeare by the history , that many volumes of phisicall maters were there founde , which perused and considered of by Asclepiades , in those dayes a famous phisition in Rome , were by him commended , and at his petition translated into latine , whereof Pliny writeth in his 25. booke . Of so many excellent medicines left by Mithridates , none was so highly esteemed , & so well accompted of in all respectes , as that termed Mithridatium : whose excellent vertues against poison were first approued in Mithridates owne body , and after confirmed by the Romaines .

In trueth a man may iustly blame the historyographers , which in describing the noble actes of Pompey the great , doe so slenderly passe ouer this his facte , in translating of this medicine experienced of this noble king . For in my iudgement things iustly weighed , none of all Pompeyes valiante feates of armes , no not the royall triumph made at Rome to declare the victory in conquering king Mithridates , hath so largely aduaunced his name , as the making knowen to the world of this medicine . For the profit of that victory came only to Rome , and the triumph and praise for the same done at that time in Rome : But the profit of this medicine hath bene by his meanes imparted to the whole world , & the commendation and praise for the same , is iustly to be yeelded from all the world in all ages and times : So that as all the world is greater then Rome , & all times more then one age , so doubtlesse more renowne is due vnto Pompey for diuulging of this medicine , then by the conquering of this king , or by the triumph for the same . Although in the Emperoure Nero his time , succeeded a learned phisition called Andromachus , who to the imitation of this medicine compounded an other , adding to the description of Mithridatium the flesh of Vipers , and some other simples , which medicine he called Theriaca , of the Greeke worde 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , which doth signifie a wilde and venemous beast , whereof the Viper is one . Yet this ought not to imbase any praise due to Mithridates for compounding of Mithridatium . For all men doe know that it is easier to adde to a thing done , then to finde out the same , and greatest praise is to be geuen to the first inuentor . So that the dishonour that came to Mithridates by Pompey his victory was not so great , as the praise and commendation for the inuenting and compounding of Mithridatium . And his calamity to be ouerthrowen is greatly easied , his ignomy to be conquered after a sorte aduaunced , that by the same this medicine was diuulged , which happely would not haue bene performed , at the least so generally , had he dyed otherwayes , and not bene by Pompey ouercommed . For had not Mithridates in him felfe approoued the excellency of the medicine , purposing to haue killed him selfe rather then to come into the handes of the Romaines , surely the notable vertues of the medicine would not so well haue bene belieued . And had not this king in that his miserable estate made triall in his owne body , who would haue belieued that a mans body might by any meanes be brought so strongly to resist poison ? Who but one in so desperate a case , would attempt to take strong poison vpon the credit of any medicine ? Great good therefore to the whole world this ouerthrowe of Mithridates did breede : And great renoume thereby came , not to the conqueroure onely , but to the conquered : to the one for inuenting , to the other for diuulging of so great a medicine , which for these two thousand yeares hath bene of all men in all ages had in great estimation , not in Pontus onely & Bithinia , & Greece adioyning to the same , but in all other nations and countryes where any learning is , commended by all writers , Grecians , Arabians , and Latinists . And what greater assurance can there be of the notable vertues of this medicine , then the confirmation of the same from Mithridates to this our time , then that all phisitions of the world in all ages , times , and places , in Greece , in Arabia , in Italia , in all partes of Germany , in France , in Spayn , in Portingal , in Hungaria , in England , in Scotland , Moscouia , Tartaria , Sueuia , yee in all partes of Asia , Aphrica , and Europa , euen amongest the saluage and barbarous nations , hath and doth greatly esteeme of Mithridatium , and so of Theriacle , and seeke and prouide for them to serue their countryes in cases of neede . How carefully all princes & rulers , hath & doth take order for the well compounding of these medicines . Doubtles had not experience confirmed their excellent qualyties , the estimation would not haue so many yeares continued : but longe before this our age , would haue bene diminished , and by this time come to nothing . Great therefore are these medicines , and in a heigh degree to be esteemed . And albeit great prayse and commendation is due to both medicines ( I meane Mithridatium and Theriacle ) yet greatest praise is to be geuen to Mithridatium . First because of his antiquytie , which was of Mithridates inuented , & approued many yeares before Theriacle was compounded . For long after Mithridates was ouerthrowen ▪ Andromachus phisition to Nero the Emperour , & very expert in confecting of medicines ) as Galen writeth in his first booke de Antid. ) with diligence considering the composition of Mithridatium , chaunged some of the simples , toke out some , and added others , supposinge by that alteration to make the medicine more perfite , & of mightyer force against poison . In which consideration he added the flesh of vipers to the composition of Mithridatium , and leauing out some simples vsed of Mithridates , added others , in number moe , and ( as he thought ) of greater power against poyson . Whereby it may reasonably bee gathered , that Andromachus not fully satisfied with the composition set downe by Mithridates , supposing some defect in it , by that his alteration , endeuoured to make an other medicine in all degrees more perfite , in which no want might be found , and so he addressed the same , and called it Theriaca . Whereby no doubt some good time after , Mithridatium was lesse esteemed , and the credit thereof much imbased , vntill time by longe experience had sufficiently declared , wherein Theriacle doth excell Mithridatium , and in what poynts Mithridatium is not onely not inferiour to Theriacle , but of more efficacy then it .

So Galen in his first booke de Antidot . writeth . Because of the flesh of Vipers in Theriacle , it is much better in the byting of the Viper then Mithridatium . But in all other effects , Theriacle can not onely not doe more then Mithridatium , but is inferiour . The same Galen in 2. de Antidot . writeth in like sorte . We will begin ( saith he ) with the description of Mithridatium , for it is stronger against many poisons then Theriacle , though this be better against the byting of the Viper . Whereby we may gather that where Andromachus endeuouring to make a more perfit medicine , then that lefte of Mithridates , did in some part accomplish his purpose , leauing a medicine excelling the other in one particular thing , but not of like efficacy generally . It happened therefore in this case ( if a man may compare natures actions to arte ) as in the framing of man , who doth in all actions exceede all creatures , yet not so generally , but that in some one action some one beast doth excel man , as we reade that the Aegle hath perfiter sighte then man , the Dogge doth passe man in smelling , the Ape in agility , the Tiger in swiftnesse . But whosoeuer will with reason conferre all actions , he shall find in all together , that man passeth all creatures , for such is his constitution and temperature , that moe and perfiter actions doe proceede from man them any one creature . So it came to passe , that Andromachus indeuoring to make a medicine of greater perfection then Mithridatium , obtayned that in one thing his medicine excelled , but in many other was inferiour to Mithridatium . For a man may gather the vertues of these two medicines , at large displaied in Galens workes , into three orders . First that they are good against the byting and stinging of venemous beastes , be they Serpentes , Scorpions , mad Dogges , or others . Secondly they serue to cure all kinde of poysons taken into the body . Thirdly to remedy other inwarde diseases . Now it is certaine , and long experience hath confirmed , that both these medicines haue strong and mighty vertues to remedy al three kindes of effectes : yet no doubt one of them is in some effectes of more power then the other . As Galen writeth that Theriacle for the byting of Vipers , is stronger then Mithridatium : In other it doth exceede Theriacle . So we may iustly conclude with Galen , that against the byting & stinging of beastes , Theriacle hath more force : But for inward poisons & inward diseases , truly Mithridatium is of more might . Wherefore albeit both medicines are noble , & greatly to be desired , yet Mithridatium is to be accompted of greater price , as hauing more generally stronger vertues , and seruing to moe purposes .

And it may be obiected , that in Theriacle compiled by Andromachus are many simples added , which haue great vertue against diuerse kindes of poysons , and happely are therein of more efficacy , then those in Mithridatium , left out by Andromachus in his Theriacle . Whereby it may be coniectured , that Andromachus making choyse of the simples , selected such as were of greatest force to remedy poisons , & omitted the weaker , adding in their place , some other of more strength : so it is probable , that Theriacle so compiled , is of greater myght in all kinde of poysons . But Galen in his workes declareth , that experience in his time did shewe the contrary , and reason confirmeth the same . For let the simples in Theriacle be in number moe , and in qualytie of greater efficacy , yet it must be remembred , that it is certayn , that when in compositions some one simple is set as the base and ground of that medicine , that that simple doth drawe the force and strength of all the rest to his property and action , and so euery such compound is specially good in that one thinge for which it was deuised . Now when Andromachus did make the flesh of vipers as the base and grounde of his Theriacle , it foloweth that the same doth drawe to it the qualities and vertues of all the simples in Theriacle : so it doth come to passe , that Theriacle is far better than Mithridatium , against the bytinge of vipers and such venemous beasts . And for that all other simples in it , are caried by the flesh of the vipers , to exercyse their force strongly therin , they haue the lesse power to remedy other poisons . When no such thinge was intended in the composition of Mithridatium , it is agreable to reason that the simples in it euery one retayneth his owne power and property , and so one such quality or forme doth resulte by the myxture , of great strength against all poysons . Moreouer it is certayne that in the composition of Mithridatium , are fewer simples in number then are in the confection of Theriacle , then it followeth that when like quantity of both is taken , as for example , ʒ j , surely a greater portion of euery one simple is taken in Mithridatium , and lesser in Theriacle , the lesser quantity must needes haue lesser strength in remedyinge other poysons , saue that , to the which the base or grounde doth call them . So it remayneth fyrme that Galen writeth , as obserued in his time , that Theriacle is in deede better then Mithridatium in bytinge of vypers and like beastes , and that Mithridatium exceadeth th' other in remedying all other poisons taken into the body and inward diseases . Wherefore in this our countrey where no such perill and danger is of vipers , Mithridatium by good reason ought to be reputed of greater estunation then Theriacle .

Of the composition of Mithridatium .

IT shall not be amisse in this place , to declare the composition of this medicine . And it is to be noted , that where all writers doe greately commend it , yet certayne it is , that they do not in one sorte describe the makinge of the same . But almost euery authore hath a seuerall description , differinge in the number of the simples , and also in the proportions and quantities . In time past the Apothecaries in making of Mithridatium , folowed most the description of Nicolaus Praepositus , of Auicenna , and of Nicolaus Mirepsicus , some of Aetius , some of Paulus . The former descriptions contayninge aboue one hundred simples , were long and laborious , and required many supplyes , for simples vnknowen . Wherefore in these our later daies , in which learned men haue examined euery thing perfitly , the most part haue commended one of the three compositions expressed by Galen in 2. de Antid. of the which , two were taken ( as Galen wryteth ) out of the bookes of Andromachus . The first found without name is attributed to Andromachus , as compounded by him , of others supposed the very same , which was found in the closets of kinge Mithridates , & after transcribed in the workes of Andromachus . The second description is also recyted out of Andromachus bookes , vnder the names of Antipater and Cleophantes . The thyrd is referred to Damocrates : It doth not appeare by any thing written by Galen , which of these three compositions is best to be folowed . And so of the learned men of our time , some hath vsed the one , and some the other . Many doe best like of the first description attributed to Andromachus , both for that Andromachus by the opinion of Galen and of all other auncient wryters , was adiudged very skilfull in compounding of medicines , & therein did farre excell all phisitions of his time , and also because it may bee iustly gathered , that that description is the very same , which Mithridates vsed . For in the Andromachus was phisition to Nero the Emperour of Rome , it appeareth that he obtayned to see and to consider , of all the bookes which found in Mithridates closet , were translated into latine by Lineus the grammarian , and brought to Rome . And it is not agreable to reason , that Andromachus studying to make a more perfit medicine then that which came vnder the name of Mithridatium , woulde also inuent an other vnder the same name . But it is very probable that Andromachus with diligence perusinge the recept of Mithridatium , vsed of Mithridates , would leaue it in such forme as Mithridates compounded it , and deuise an other by the same , which hee meant to make more perfite . Andromachus therefore not alteringe the description of Mithridatium , but leauing it in the same forme as it was founde , confected an other , which he called Theriaca . And where we doe reade in the 2. de Antid. of Galen , an other recept set downe vnder the name of Theriaca Mithridatis , with assertion that the kinge vsed the same : yet it seemeth not to be that Mithridatium which was found in the closet of that king . For all writers doe confesse , that Andromachus long after added to that recept of Mithridates , the flesh of vipers : so that Mithridatium compounded by Mithridates had not in it the flesh of vipers , and that Theriacle which Galen in that place calleth Theriaca Mithridatis , doth receaue the flesh of vipers , so it foloweth that it is not the Mithridatium vsed of Mithridates . And he that will with diligence peruse that recept mentioned of Galen , by the name of Theriaca Mithridatis , shal● finde it in the simples not much differing from Theriaca Andromachi , and many things repeated twyse in diuers clauses doth argue an imperfection : that Galen may be thought in that place to speake after the common opinion , when hee affirmeth it to be the same which Mithridates vsed , being in deede farre different from that medicine . Wherefore we may reasonably conclude , that the first recept transcribed by Galen in 2. de Antid. out of Andromachus workes , is in truth the selfe same that Mithridates vsed , and in mine opinion , in that respect the better to be liked , and the rather to be followed . For what better assurance can we haue of the true and perfect confection of this medicine , then that which was deliuered by Mithridates ? and what description can more assure vs of the effects of this medicine , then that composition which Mithridates followed , who first gaue so notable proofe of the medicine , and thereby the first credite to the same ? So that if by discourse of reason it may be proued , that an other description is more artificiall and more agreable to the rules of confection of medicines : yet in mine opinion this description , being the same that Mithridates vsed , set downe happely by the king , more according to experience then art , is rather to be folowed then any other , thought more cunningly addressed . Neuerthelesse it is not to be deemed that kinge Mithridates was altogether vnskylfull , when many volumes concerning phisike were found in his closet , & translated into latine , brought to Rome . And it appeareth that he taking delight in medicinall matters , had about him dyuerse phisitions , who mighte artificially dispence the simples in Mithridatium . And Galen in the sayd booke de Antid. commendeth the discription of Mithridatium attributed to Andromachus : whereby it appeareth , that this description of Mithridatium is not addressed altogether without arte . For which cause , the learned of our time , haue great reason to preferre that description of Mithridatium before others . Albeit some do more esteeme the composition of Damocrates , as with more arte and more cunning dispensed . Notwithstanding because it is very likely that the precept attributed to Andromachus , as found in his bookes , is the selfe same that Mithridates vsed , and hath of many , in this our countrey , of late yeares bene folowed : I thought best in this place to expresse the same , as I doe finde it in Galen , in 2. de Antid. and is in many antidotary bookes allowed , which is as foloweth .

Rec. glicirrizae ʒ vij . ob . iiij . Spicae nardi ʒ vij . ob . iij. Croci , cinnamomi , Zinziberis . ana . ʒ vij . ob . ij . Galbani . ʒ vij . Castorei , costi , ana . ʒ vj. ob . ij . Scordij , iunci odorati , Opoponacis , Terebinthinae . Seminis dauci . ʒ vj. ob . iij. Opobalsami , ana . ʒ vj. ob . iiij . Thlaspios . Thuris , myrrhae , ana . ʒ vj. Succi hyppocistidis . Polij , Se●elios , ana . ʒ v. ob . ij . Cypheos , Casiae . Stiracis ʒ v ob. iiij . Petroselini ʒ iiij . ob . iij. Opij . ʒ iiij . ob . ij . Nardi gallicae , anae ʒ . i●● . Seminis feniculi , Nardi indicae , Gentianae , Mei athamantici , Rosarum siccarum , Cardamomi , Folij . Anisi , ʒ . iij Acori , Hiperici , ana ʒ ij Gummi Acaciae , Phu pontici . Scinci , ʒ ij . ob . ij Vini choi , & mellis Attici desoumati , ana q. s .

BEcause many learned men of this age doe best allowe the description of Mithridatium , deliuered by Damocrates , as more artificially done , in which the rules of compounding of medicines are more exactly followed , and is in truth easier to be made of the Apothecaries , better digested in orders , not hauing so small diuisions in the proportions , as this attributed to Andromachus , and so may better be made of the Apothecary in what quantity shall seeme good to him : therefore I doe thinke it not amisse in this place to recite that description also of Mithridatium of Damocrates , as the same is expressed in the second booke of Galen de Antidot . that such as shall thinke better to follow the same , may by this pamphlet knowe the ingredience , which is this .

Rec. Mirrhae , croci , ana . ʒ . x Agarici , Zinziberis , Cinnamomi , thuris , Spicae , Nardi , Thlaspios , Seselis , stechados , ana. ʒ . viij Opobalsami , costi , Iunci odorati , styracis , Galbani , terebinthinae , Piperis longi , castorei , Sucoi hypocistidis , Opoponacis , Folij malabathri recentis , Cassiae ligneae , ana . ʒ . vij Polij , scordij , Seminis dauci , bdellij , Piperis albi , cypheos , Carpobalsami , Nardi celticae , Gummi , ana . ʒ . i● boni ponderis . Petroselini , Opij , Cardamomi , gentianae , Seminis feniculi , dictāni , Foliorum rosarum , Anisi , asari , acori , ana . ʒ . iij Phu , sagapeni , Succi glicirrizae , Mei Athamantici , ana . ʒ . ij ● Acaciae , Ventris scinci , Sem. hiperici , Vini & mellis q. s .

PLiny in his 22. maketh mention of a kinde of Mithridatium made of two dry Walnuts , two Figges , xx . leaues of Rhue , one graine of salte : Aetius and other writers die recite the same . And they greatly commend it against poison , & other pestilentiall diseases .

Of the quality and temperament of Mithridatium .

IT is of all men of our age confessed , and taken for a truth , that medicines compounded haue their vertues , and doe their effectes according to the nature of the simples whereof they are compounded . So it must needes followe , that Mithridatium compounded of many simples , hath diuers & sundry properties , & those agreable to the ingredience . And wheras in Mithridatium are simples differing in quality , some hauing power to heate , some other to coole , yet the greatest number are in quality whot and dry . And albeit these being contrary , and repugnant , do make alteration the one with the other : notwithstanding it must needes follow , that those reactions not being infinite , at the last one forme and quality must result in the compound , agreable to the natures of those simples , which doe beare and cary dominion . Now whereas in Mithri●atium the most simples haue quality to heate and dry : it followeth that Mithridatium hath a whot and dryinge power . And as compounds must haue a time of fermentation , and rypening ( for the reactions of the simples are not perfited in a moment ) So the quality or forme which doth aryse by the workinge of one simple with an other , hath not his perfection presently after the mixture , but a certayne space of time must be geuen before we can iustly expect the true action of the medicine compounded , as proceeding from the forme of the medicine , which doth resulte by fermentation of the working of the simples in the compound . So that before the due time , we may not loke for the vertues aunswerable to the composition , but that some one simple aboue the rest may shew his quality , that the compound medicine may do an effect aunswerable to that simple , and not as proceeding from the whole composition . In which respect , Galen wryteth that Theriacle newly made , doth greately prouoke sleepe , by reason that Opium ( that is the ioyce of Poppy prepared ) myngled in it , being of greater force then other simples , before fermentation doth exercise his quality more then the rest : and after that his quality is by fermentation with other simples broken , he can not so strongly do his operation . So Theriacle after the iust time of fermentation doth not so mightely prouoke sleepe , as newe Theriacle doth . The same is obserued in Mithridatium , and all other compounds , that immediately after myxture , the qualities of the simples are strongest , and shewe their powers best . But certaine it is , that after due time of working , when the compound is fully rype , no one simple doth worke in it according to his owne nature , but by the reactions one common nature doth result , which cannot be attributed to any one or moe simples , but may be truely sayd a common nature arysinge out of all the ingredience , and from that forme the actions of the compound do proceede . Which forme is to vs not certainely knowen , the effects are best learned by experience . Wherfore it is very wysely wrytten of Ioannes de sancto Amando in his exposition vpon the antitodary of Nicolaus , that it is better alwaye to vse a medicine compound exercised , then one lately inuented whereof we haue no experience . For although we may by discourse of reason gather that the compound , as Mithridatium , is whot , and dry , because the simples wherof it is made , are the most part whot and dry , and then experience doth confirme this coniecture : yet other qualities of Mithridatium and of other compounds are not so easely knowen by any discourse or method , but chiefly learned by experience . For the common forme from whence many secrete vertues doe procede , is not knowen by any learning or methode . So it must needes follow , that the actions of the same forme are not learned by methode or doctrine , but chiefly by experience . In which respect also , we haue reason to retaine the description deliuered by Mithridates , before any other , for that that noble king gaue better proofe in himselfe of the vertues of the medicine , then any other hath of it by any other composition .

That Mithridatium is not so whote as Theriacle , compounded after Andromachus description , which is in these dayes most followed : and that it may more safely bee vsed .

Some learned men of our time , by reason go about to discourse , and prooue , that Theriacle is not in quantity so whot as Mithridatium , & in that respect doe inferre , that it may more safely bee vsed . Which they doe gather , for that in Theriacle a greater quantity of Opium ( that is the ioyce of Poppy prepared ) is , then in Mithridatium , whose cooling power doth much abate the heating qualities of other medicines . This argument in these two medicines newly made , before fermentation is perfite , may take place . For then in deede euery simple retayning his owne vertue , Opium may remitte the whot qualities of the rest : at what time neither of these medicines is generally to be vsed , but for some speciall point , as Galen to prouoke sleepe , doth counsell new Theriacle . But after fermentation is perfited , all the simples one altering the other , euery one hath qualities so broken , that not one retayneth his owne nature : then surely the common forme resulting , doth follow the simples which doe beare dominion , and they in both these medicines are whot and dry , and the whot and dry simples in Theriacle are moe in number , and of greater force , then in Mithridalium : as may appeare to him that will compare both confections . Whereby it followeth that the common quality arysinge in Theriacle , doth heate more then that in Mithridatium . Neyther the increase of Opium doth in proportion aunswere the strength of heating in it : neither hath it any such force so greately to contemper the simples , as these men doe imagine . For although Opium hath speciall property aboue other medicines to induce sleepe , yet his cooling quality ( of many writers ) is not accompted so great , for it hath so strong bitternes : that many doe suppose that it hath a myxt nature , consisting of many whot partes : if it be true that Galen wryteth in his 5. booke of simples , that all bitter thinges are whot , and being certaine that Opium doth stupefy , & strongly cause sleepe , it is of some inferred that that power doth rather proceede of a property of substaunce , then altogether depend of his cooling quality . Wherefore it is not without reason affyrmed by learned men wryting hereof , that Mithridatium doth not so strongly heate as Theriacle : and experience doth also confirme the same . For who so vseth these medicines , doubtles he shall finde that Theriacle rightly compounded after Andromachus description ( which is in all this treatise to be vnderstood , and is in these dayes of the Apothecaries most commonly made , and so of the wyser sort in most vulgare vse ) doth heate more then Mithridatium , which is confessed of the wryters , commenting vpon the antidotary of Nicolaus , and in this our age of many learned men affyrmed . For which cause , many in these dayes without daunger do vse Mithridatium when neede requireth . In sommer time , & whot seasons , very few and seldome Theriacle . And Galen doth expresly forbyd to gieue Theriacle to children . More safe therefore is the vse of Mithridatium then of Theriacle , not onely in respect of the heating quality , which seemeth lesse , & more gentle in Mithridatium : but also in respect that a greater quantity of Opium is in Theriacle . For admit that Opium by fermentation sustayneth great alteration , notwithstanding the common forme of Theriacle taketh some infection of Opium , that some effecte declining to his nature , doth also proceede , and the more , if that stupefying and dormitory power in Opium , doth depend rather of property of substance , than of manifest cooling quality , as some do argue . For the properties of substance in medicines , haue not like alteration by fermentation , as the manifest qualities haue by reaction : we may therefore feare the common and often vse of Theriacle for the quantity of Opium in it . For like reason , often vse of Theriacle may be suspected , because of the flesh of vipers added to it , as the base & ground of the medicine . For notwithstanding the great care of the place , of the time , of the kinde obserued in taking and choosing of the viper , the diligence in preparing , the care of myxture with other things , for the better correction of the malignity of the beast , which hapely might remaine in the flesh : yet a man may doubt of some errour committed ▪ in so daungerous a case . And though all thinges therein bee ryghtely done , yet some little quality of the nature of the beast will remayne , that a man may suspect often to vse the medicine . And where kinge Mithridates was expert in phisicall matters , it is not to be adiudged but that he did aswell know the nature of the flesh of vipers , as hee knewe the venime of the beast : so it is very likely that he purposing to compounde a medycine to be often taken for his safty against poison , did of purpose make it without the fleshe of vipers , knowing that if he shold haue added that , he myght not with like safty haue dayly vsed the same . And what learned men doe so often in these dayes counsell Theriacle , as do Mithridatium ? and we doe in this our time with lesse danger and more security , for the measels , the smale pockes , the wormes , and for internal diseases in children , geue Mithridatium ▪ then Theriacle . We may therefore in mine opinion iustly conclude , that Mithridatium is a medicine more generally to be vsed , & may oftener and with more safty be geauen then Theriacle .

Of the age and keeping of Mithridatium .

Wwhere we haue sufficiently declared that compounde medicines must haue a time of fermentation before they be brought to vse : this place requireth that we doe declare the tyme , when Mithridatium is sufficiently fermented and come to his perfection . Galen in his bookes de Theriaca doth write exactly of the time of fermentation of Theriacle , affirming that it is throughly concocted in xii yeares , not denying but that it hath concoction in shorter time , as in 5. and in 7. yeares , so that we are to iudge that Theriacle is not sufficiently ripe to bee vsed before fiue yeares , and in 7 yeares is better digested , & in xij yeares hath his full fermentation , and perfect concoction . Yet Aetius and Paulus Aegineta doe measure the concoction of Theriacle in shorter time . For Aetius sayth that Theriacle is fermented in xij monethes , and that it may be vsed after one moneth in some cases , and so affirmeth that it endureth to thirty yeares . Where Paulus appointeth the age of Theriacle to be twenty yeares , therein he doth not greatlye differ from Aetius : for hee making the terme of Theriacle to be 30 yeares , doth also say that then it is good in light diseases . So that by Aetius , Theriacle may be vsed after xij monethes , and continueth in good perfection to 20. yeares , and after declineth , that at 30. yeares it is aged , yet may it be vsed in deseases which are not very great . Our later writers doe generally better allowe of Aetius & Paulus opinion for the age of Theriacle , then of Galens : and some suppose an errour or fault in that place in Galen : and so they doe affirme that Theriacle is fully concocted in the space of xij monethes , and then may bee sold of the Apothecary : and that the same being well kepte , will continue in good strength 20. yeares , and after doth decline and waxe weaker , and yet may be vsed when it is 30. yeares olde , but it is then as an old man decayed , and weake of strength .

Of Mithridatium the former writers haue set downe no time of concoction , leauing to a wyse man to determyne of that , which is written accordingly of Theriacle . For bycause these two medicines are confected of many simples , not greatly differring , they haue many things common : so as that which is of the one affirmed , may bee applied to the other . Notwithstanding as in the number & nature of the simples , they doe not in all poynts agree : so no doubt in the age of these medicines some difference is to be allotted : yet such , as a man exercised in these matters , may easely supplye . For in that Theriacle hath in it the flesh of vipers , and a greater portion of Opium , then is in Mithridatium , it is certaine that Theriacle requireth a longer time to his concoction : for the flesh of vipers must haue perfect fermentation with the simples for his correction . In like sorte Opium doth aske a long time of fermentation , & for that cause Galen . 12. de Method . Medend . saith , that Philonium is not to bee vsed in a yeare after it is compounded , and that the vse of it after ij . iij. or iiij . yeares , is more without daunger . Whereby hee geueth vs to vnderstande , that medicines which doe receaue Opium , require longe time of fermentation : so that Theriacle receauing a greater portion of Opium then Mithridatium , ought to haue a larger space to be concocted , then it . Now if Theriacle hath his perfection in one yeare , surely Mithridatium is throughly fermented in sixe monethes , and may be kept in good strength , not only as some haue writen to three , or fours yeares , but to x or xij yeares : and except we shall to such time proroge his olde age , there will be no proportion in the times . For if Theriacle being cocted in one yeare , doth last to 20. yeares before it doth waxe olde , suerly by the lyke proportion , Mithridatium not well fermented vnder six monethes , may iustly be said to continue in good efficacy to 10. or 12. yeares . And as Theriacle after 20. yeares waxeth old & feeble : so Mithridatium after 10. or 12. yeares doth decline , that being 20. yeares old , is then decayed and of litle force . As we may probably determine these times , so there can be no certainty set to leade vs to the time . For if the simples be not in good perfection , or the same orderly and well according to art compounded , or otherwayes the medicine not well kept : then it will sooner wax old , & lose his strength . But as Galen writeth , to these great medicines , great care must be had of the choise of the simples , that they may be had in the readiest perfection . And like diligence must be gieuen , that the confectioner may in all pointes doe his duty , not in making only , but also in keeping the medicine . And therefore princes are greatly to bee commended , which doe by theyr authority prouide , that these medicines myght be well ordered . And for that many doe in these dayes procure Mithridatium , to haue it in their houses ready to vse , it is good to know that it is best kept in vessels of glasse , of siluer , and of gold , and that it is not so good to keepe the same in Tinne vessels , for that they are often corrupted with ledde , and gather a ceruse matter , as Galen writeth in his first booke de Antid. I wish therefore that the marchaunts may hereof be admonished , which doe commonly bryng Theriacle from Venice , in vessels of ledde , wherby no small daunger may grow in so noble a medicine , & so greatly esteemed . So wee must not fill the vessell to the toppe , as we say brime full , but leaue some reasonable space , for the medicine to worke , to exhale , & breath : and for that cause , Galen counsayleth to open the vessell somtymes .

Howe to knowe good Mithridatium .

WEe doe read in the booke of Galen de Theriaca ad Pisonem , & in his bookes de Antidot . how diligently hee labored to gieue certen notes and rules , how a man might know the goodnes of Theriacle , and when the same was perfit : and so did in those his workes set downe both rules and proofes thereof . So carefull in old time wryters were , that wee might be assured of the goodnes of these noble medicines , seruing in so great affectes , and in such common vse . But such is the malice of many which seeke gaine , that of the greater price a thinge is , the more sophistication they vse in it : that if meanes were not declared , to discerne the good from the bad , the sophisticated from the true : no man might assure himself of the certaintie of any thing in estimation . It is therefore very necessary , to shew how men may know when Mithridatium is good and perfite , and when the same is naught & corrupted . And for that Galen in his foresaid bookes , hath labored to declare this in Theriacle , we will apply the same to the examination of Mithridatium . For in that these medicines haue a great affinitie , they doe in most thinges so concurre , that the same which is said of the one , may be applyed to the other . First therefore in consistence of substance , if Mithridatium be well and artificially compounded , it ought to haue an equality of substance , not drie nor ouer liquide , and moyste , not to arise in clots and lumpes , but it must be in substance coherent , equall , and smooth . In smell it must resemble the simples whereof it is made , and yet not to offer to the nose , the smell of any one simple aboue the rest , but to yelde a common odoure arising by fermentation of all the simples , not peculier to any one , nor vngratefull , but answerable to the ingredience , resembling no rottennes , nor mustines .

In like sort , the taste must not expresse any one simple , but be as a common sapore , resulting of all the simples : so that if in tasting of Mithridatium you may manifestly discerne or discry any one simple in it , surely that Mithridatium is not well confected . Therefore it may not haue in it any excesse of vngratefull bitternes , which doth sometimes happen , when the confectioner doth either take hony ouerold , or boyle the same ouermuch . So it may not shew to the taste any sowrenes , which happeneth if the wyne vsed be not well chosen , or not well handled in the compounding .

It seemeth that Andromachus in his Theriacle had a great care of the coloure of it , and for that cause only ( as some do write ) did adde vitreoll prepared , to yelde to it an exact blacknesse . But Mithridates attending rather the goodnes , then by coloure to please the eye , had no such care of the coloure , and so is thought to put nothing into Mithridatium to gieue it any fresher coloure then the simples woulde yeelde . Notwithstanding Mithridatium truly made , hath his coloure conuenient arising of the simples , which ought to be a little rednes declining to yealownesse , which coloure , after due fermentation , doth appeare with some freshenes , & by time in keeping , the same doth decline to an obscure darknes . Although at the first it may be thought hard to iudge of Mithridatium by these signes , yet after a man is exercised in often vewing , tasting , and smelling of Mithridatium , his sauoure , coloure , & taste will be so familiar , that a man shall quickly discerne the true from the mingled , the sophisticated from the right compounded . A man therefore that wil iudge herein , must often see , taste , and smel to Mithridatium , vntil his senses bee throughly acquainted with the qualities of the medicine , and then hee shall not bee easely deceaued .

For better certainty of the perfection and goodnesse of Theriacle , Galen doth mention of certaine experiments to be made for triall thereof : as to gieue the same to such as haue ben either hurt externally by some venimous beaste , or haue taken inwardly some poison . Whereof princes haue made trial in condemned persons , casting them to vipers , or gieuing vnto them some strong poyson , & after causing them to take of Theriacle the quantity of a nutte : and experience declared , that such as tooke Theriacle escaped the venime of the poyson , and they which tooke it not , dyed . Which proofe experienced in Theriacle , may also be applied to the triall of Mithridatium , and in that by all auncient writers Mithridatium is reputed of greater force then Theriacle , in curing all poysons inwardly taken : It followeth , that if it be good and truly made , it must remedy such as haue taken poison into the body . And because common persons haue not like oportunity to make this experiment in men condemned , as princes haue : therefore we may in other beasts ( as in dogs , in cokes and hennes , being domesticall creatures ) experience the same , geuing to these beasts some poison , and after Mithridatium : and if the beast doe take no harme by the poison , we may be assured of the goodnesse of the medicine . And the like is to be expected , if you gieue the remedy before the poyson be taken . For the medicine doth not onely defend the body from the venime of the poison , after it is taken : but also preserue , if it be first vsed : as we read of king Mithridates . In like maner Aetius biddeth vs to gieue to a doue , to a henne , or to a dogge , the quantity of two scruples of Opium , and straight after to minister to the same , Mithridatium , dissolued in some liquore , and if it be good and pure , the beaste shall sustaine no harme by the Opium .

Galen deliuereth as a certaine signe of the perfect goodnes of Theriacle , to gieue it to one that hath taken a purgatiue medicine . For ( saith he ) if it be perfect good , the medicine will not purge at all : if after the taking of Theriacle , the medicine doth his operation , & purge neuerthelesse : surely then that Theriacle is vnperfect , & not good . We do not read this signe applied to Mithridatium : yet I see no cause but that we may proceede in like maner to try the goodnes of it . For it is certaine that no one simple is in the composition of Theriacle ( which may be sayd to stay the working of the purgatiue medicine ) which is not in Mitrhridatiū . For where Theriacle doth abound with the flesh of vipers , put as the base of the medicine , no wryter hath attributed to that parcell any such property . The like may be sayd , if you discourse through all the simples added to this confection of Theriacle , and not in Mithridatium . Therefore it seemeth most agreeable to reason , that the property to stay the working of a purgation , doth proceede from the common forme of Theriacle : and so we may with like reason expect the same effect in Mithridatidatium , and rather in Mithridatium , because all writers doe confesse that it is of greater force for inwarde poisons , and inward affects , then Theriacle . Therefore I may conclude , that Mithridatium gieuen after a purgatiue medicine , will better stay or diminish the working thereof , then Theriacle : and our experience in common practise , doth confirme the same . For in this our age , who doth after purgatiue medicines ( to bridle their ouerworking ) so often gieue Theriacle , as Mithridatium ? Wherfore no doubt we may make triall of the perfection and goodnes of Mithridatium , in like sorte as Galen writeth of Theriacle , that is to say , to minister to one a purgatiue medicine , and after to gieue to the same man a reasonable quantity of Mithridatium : and if the medicine doth not worke according to his nature , or that his operation be lesse than it ought to be , surely that Mithridatium is very perfect and good . Otherwyse , if the medicine doth proceede in his action to purge , and the same appeareth not diminished by the taking of Mithridatium , then we may greatly doubt of the goodnes of the Mithridatium .

How we may make good Mithridatium , in these dayes .

I am not ignorant that diuers later writers do constantly affirme that in this our time we cannot make either good Theriacle or good Mithridatium , for that they say we do lacke many simples going into their compositions , and must vse others to supply , and so may iustly doubt whether the supplies doe in all points aunswere the true simples , and they which we haue are brought from farre countryes , long iournies , some by land , some by sea , especially , to vs in England , whereby they may be thought greatly weakned , and to loose much of their strength and vertues , before we haue them . So they conclude , that we cannot by any diligent meanes , make these medicines in that perfection as the auncient writers did , and so we may not so exactly looke for the effects of these medicines promised by the olde writers . Whereto it may bee sayd , that in parte this allegation is true , and in deede a fewe yeares past , when this fault was found , it was more truer then now it is . For in truth when good learning began to spring after barbarisme , them in deede great was the want of true simples , not in these two medicines only , but in many other moe . But now in this our time all things are called to a better examination , and it is certain that few simples are now sacking , namely to the making of Mithridatium : and it is also euident that the care of phisitions and of the Apothecaries ( I meane of the better sort ) is so honest and so great , that they doe not only diligently procure from the places ( where the simples which goe to the compositions of these medicines do grow ) the very true : but also prouide that the same may in those countries be gathered out of conuenient places , in due times and seasons . And the help of so many and great nauigations into forrain dominions ( more in these our dayes vsed , then of longe time before vs ) doe gieue so good oportunity to haue true and good simples , that to say truly what I do thinke of this our age , I doe verily belieue that we haue as true and as good simples , as Galen had in his time : especially such as are requisite to the making of Mithridatium . For we do reade what a dooe Galen made to haue pure and good Cinnamum , and made it an Emperoures worke to procure the same , and in lacke of Cinnamum did sometimes substitute double quantity of Casia . Whosoeuer wil with diligence examine the sackes of Canella , brought from the new found countries in great plenty in these dayes , may easely finde the perfect kindes of Cinnamum , agreable to the description of the old wryters : & also the true Casia . We may also vnderstand , how in old time things were sophisticated by the monuments of old writers . And who doth not now perceaue and acknowledg many errors in Di●scorides bookes , in deliuering the descriptions of simples , not so well knowen in his time , as now by these nauigations made manifest ? Many things written by the auncient authors , by hearesay , are now to the eye made euident and knowen . Wherefore it is true that now in this age things are so exactly examined , & so diligently sought for , and so painfully cared for : that in truth I doe suppose we may make in this time Mithridatium , in very good perfection : and the simples wanting , are few in number : the substitutes for the same , by learned men so well considered of , & so aptly appointed : that we neede not so greatly to doubt thereof , but may iustly expect th' effects attributed to the medicine , if not in so large manner as the auncient writers haue deliuered , yet in such resonable sorte , that we may esteeme of the medicine , as of a precious iewel , as of a thing good against some drie-poisons , & diuers internall and pestilentiall diseases .

Mithridatium made in England is rather to bee chosen , then that which is brought from Venice and other countryes beyond the Sea .

SOme haue ben of opinion , that Theriacle & Mithridatium may better be made in other countryes , ( as namely at Venice , and Constantinople ) then in England : affirming that moe and better simples are growing there , which wee doe lacke : and that such simples which are found neither in these countreys , nor in England , but are procured from the east and west Indians , do sooner and in better perfection come to those places , then to vs . Surely if things be rightly weighed , this allegation is not true . For the partes of Italy , and the territories about Constantinople , haue very few or no simples growing in their soyles , which do not spring in England , required to the composition of Mithridatium , and many are founde in England in better perfection than there . As namely , who doth not graunt the best saffron to be in England , & all trauelers which come into England , do confesse that our soyle doth produce very good plantes ( as namely Scordium ) in better kinde than other countreys : and some strangers do send into England often for some of our simples , which do go into the composition of Mithridatium . It is also well knowen , that straunge herbes transplanted hither , and some of seedes sowen , doe very kindely spring in England , which is also confessed of some later writers in theyr Herballes . And where few simples requisite to make Mithridatium are wanting ( as not growing in England ) it seemeth most true , that they which doe growe here , are most kindly for vs ( for natiue things are best aggreable to our constitutions . ) So that whereas the most simples in number required to the composition of Mithridatium , are found naturally to spring in England : I see no cause why we should not best allow of it made heere : neither ought the paucitie which we do lacke , to draw vs better to esteeme of a forrayne medicine made of all forrain things . And as I dare affirme that in this countrey we do lacke as few simples which go to the making of Mithridatium , as any of the forenamed places : so I may iustly pronounce , that such which are wanting to them , and to vs also , may and are as easily , and in as short time transported to vs , as to them . For in these dayes , the spices and other thinges brought from the Indians by nauigation to Lishburn , and thence to other countreys of Europe , may as soone be transported to vs as to Venice . Where in times past such marchandise were caried from the east Indians to Alexandria by land vpon Camels , that trade is now decayed , and for the most part such drugges are imported by sea , and the ships doe commonly light in some part of Portingal : so that it is easie to see that our Apothecaries in England , may with as good conueniency procure them from those places , and in as good perfection , as the marchaunts of Venice or of Constantinople . Neuerthelesse if any thing lacking with vs , doe come to Venice : it is soone transported thence to Antuerp ( as in the space of 24. dayes ) & so to vs . Wherefore I doe not conceaue , why any man should thinke that our Apothecaries in England , cannot make Mithridatium in as good perfection as other countries doe : but rather we ought to adiudge the contrary , that it made here , is in as good perfection , and more agreable to our natures & constitutions , then that which is compounded in other countreys , as altogether made of straunge simples , which haue no affinity with our bodies . And if we do with iudgement consider how vncertaine wee are of the true confection , when it is done in places so farre from vs : it may make vs greatly to feare , least they which do compound the medicine , hauing more care to gaine , then truly to dispence the same , will neither make choise of the best simples , neither vse diligence in the mixture . And if the princes of the countryes with carefull lawes prouide , that the confectioners shall doe their duties truely , in compounding and obseruing the things needeful to the well handling of so noble a medicine : who can assure himselfe of the truth of the marchaunt ▪ in transporting the same ? whose profession is by his marchaundize to gaine , & so no doubt will vse meanes euery way to increase his profite , that we may iustly suspect , that they doe very seldome bring into England from Venice or Constantinople , any Theriacle or Mithridatium vnmingled : & the better skill they haue in their trade , with more arte they can sophisticate their wares , to deceaue the iudgement of the buyer , that I greatly doe doubt that litle or none at all of these medicines are brought true and sincere vnmixed : as hath bene tryed when straungers in England haue purposly examined both Theriacle and Mithridatium compounded in London , with other brought from the sayd countryes , & haue gieuen praise to that made in London : as maister Hughe Morgane her Maiesties Apothecary can witnes , whose confections haue bene better commended by strangers , then any of other places . Farther whereas of Mithridatium there are diuers descriptions , not all of like goodnes ( as I haue before declared ) how can we tell what compositions the confectioner followed ? hereof the marchaunt not hauing care , can not informe vs : so we remaine vncertaine of the true knowledge of the medicine , not hauing knowledg of the simples vsed in that wee buy : and as wee know not assuredly what kinde of Mithridatium we doe buy : so we remaine vncertaine of the medicine . And where wee haue declared that Theriacle & Mithridatium haue their times of fermentation , of their duraunce , and that after a certaine age they decline , waxe old , & feeble : we cannot know the time of that which is forraine made : so we haue vncertaine medicine , and shall be vncertaine how long we may keepe the same . All which circumstances may be easly knowne , in that which is made in England . Galen in his bookes doth not allowe of Theriacle kept in Tinne vessels , affirming that they are corrupted with ledde , the cer●se whereof doth corrupt the medicine . What shall we then say to our marchauntes , which doe bring Mithridatium & Theriacle from other countryes in vessels of ledde ? doe not these medicines take of the vessels great corruption , and notwithstanding are solde to the great annoyance of the Queenes subiects ? Wherefore if we doe truely weigh in the ballance of reason , that which I haue here written ) and yet much more may in this matter be sayd ) surely we shall not onely confesse that none of these medicines , specially Mithridatium , made in forraine places , are , or ought to be so greatly esteemed , as those which are made at home in England . And we may truely confesse that we are lustly punished in expending our money vpon forraine things , when we haue & may haue better at home . And it is very lamentable to consider , that straungers doe dayly send into England a false & naughty kinde of Mithridatium , & Threacle , in great barrelles , more then a thousand weight in a yeare , and vtter the same at a lowe price , for iij. d. or iiij . d. a pound , to the great hurt of Her Maiesties subiects , and no smale gaine to straungers purses . Wherefore to conclude , I do counsell all English men rather to buy Mithridatium truly made in England , then that which is brought from other countryes . And here it is to be wished , that our most gratious Soueraigne thereof informed , may by Her magistrates doe , as in olde time Emperoures of Rome did , that is , by her edict take order , that our Apothecaries may with care and diligence select the simples which doe go to the making of this medicine , that the true may bee gotten in their best perfections , and the same truely chosen may bee rightly dispensed , and in all pointes according to arte well ordered , the time of fermentation duely obserued , the maner of keeping , in good sorte performed : and so all things rightly administred by her Maiesties carefull ordinaunces , I doe not doubt , but that wee shall in this our countrie haue both Mithridatium & Theriacle in good perfection , that we may finde the great effects and noble vertues of both , so largely deliuered by the auncient writers in their monuments .

Of the vertues and propertyes of Mithridatium .

GALEN in his bookes de Antidot . doth not particulerly expresse the properties of this medicine : but generally enunceth , that it doth good against all poisons , and is stronge to remedy many inwarde diseases . It doth appeare by sondry places in Galen , that Mithridatium hath all the vertues which Theriacle hath , and is inferior to it only in the curing of the byting of vipers , and such other venemous beastes : in other things it doth excell Theriacle . Then where Galen at large displayeth the faculties & vertues of Theriacle in his bookes De Theriaca ad Pisonem , & ad Pamphilianum , he needed not particularly to set downe the properties of Mithridatium . For it doth suffice for vs to looke into the qualities & powers of Theriacle to learne the faculties of Mithridatium . But the latter writers in all their antidatories doe expresse the same at large . In which bookes we do reade thus .

Mithridatium is next in qualitye and vertue to Theriacle , and doth little differ from it , saue that Theriacle is in temperament hoatter , and stronger against the biting of serpents . Concerning other properties of Mithridatium confuesly numbred in these bookes , it will not be amysse to reduce them to a methode and order : So we may affirme that the effects and vertues of Mithridatium doe consist in two speciall points . First to preserue from infirmities , then to cure diseases . For as Galen writeth , this medicine doth not onely cure affects which are ingendred , and helpe to remedy poison taken : but vsed before , doth so defend , that poison gieuen after shall doe no harme , as happened to king Mithridates , when he would haue poisoned himselfe , Who so vseth Mithridatium in health , shall in such sorte make his body strong , that neither poison , nor other disease shall easely harme him . And as man consisteth of body and soule , so Mithridatium doth in both exercise his vertues . His properties are such , that it quickeneth the senses , cleareth the minde , and sharpeneth the witte . Which actiones it perfourmeth by clensing the instrumentes which doe serue to these functions , from grosse and thick vapours . And where oftentimes many fumes doe ascend , by the which the animal spirits are obscured , the vse of Mithridatium doth dissipate , extenuate , & consume the same : wherby these animal facultyes & powers are cleared , and so a perfite minde is preserued in a whole body . For Mithridatium maketh strong all parts which doe serue for nutrition , increaseth naturall heate , openeth obstructions , expelleth superfluity , wherby the naturall faculties of the body doe perfectly performe their functions , the stomacke in good order desireth and digesteth alimentes , the liuer maketh good and perfit bloud , and ech parte putteth from him his excrementes in conuenient order and time . So the hart receiuing pure bloud , maketh good spirits fit for his actions , which he orderly sendeth to the animal partes , & to other members of the body . Wherby all the principall partes being in their perfections , doe euery way well dispence through the body , that it remayneth in good order to performe all actions . And whereas man is subiect to many casualties , Mithridatium vsed as is sayd , so defendeth the body , that no poison shall easely harme it . Whereof Mithridates gaue proofe , w●● by longe vse of this medicine . so altered the constitution of his body , that no poison could annoye it .

In pestilentiall seasons , it preserueth such as do vse it : where of we haue examples , not only in auncient writers , but also in our daily experience .

Now concerning the parte curatiue , though the same may be gathered by that which is already written in preseruation : yet it is better for order sake to repeate one thing often , then to be thought insufficient by omitting any thing . Wherfore we may say with the olde authors ( which proofe also confirmeth ) that Mithridatium remedyeth diseases of the minde , taketh away straunge imaginations , helpeth melancholy phantasies & passions , which drawe men often to desperation . This it performeth by altering the bloud , opening the splene , by chaunging and dissipating the vapores arrising of the melancholy humore , and yeelding to the animall spirits pure and good exhalations , and by comforting the hart . And where oftentimes colde and grosse fumes do ascend so plentifully , that the wittes are dulled , the senses and discourse of reason either greatly impaired or cleane taken away , the iudgment and memory hurt or abolished : Mithridatium by his sweete brethings quickeneth the same , reduceth the braine to his temperament , altereth , consumeth , & spendeth those vapoures , and bringeth man to his naturall state , and when it is newe , it induceth sleepe , and remedieth the furyousnes of many madmen .

No man needeth to doubt of the mighty power of Mithridatium , in curing all kind of poisons either outwardly receaued or inwardly taken , being to that purpose chefly devised , and of long time experienced to be therin of great force . Although for the biting and stinging of venemous beastes , it is supposed of lesse might then Theriacle : yet it is of all men confessed much stronger to cure poisons , taken into the body by potion , or otherwayse . So his might is great to heale all pestilent ( all and malignante diseases , cureth the plage , feauers which depend of naughty and malignant causes , helpeth the french pocks , the small pocks , the measels : and in all other inward diseases which are great , and such as other medicines can not remedy , Mithridatium is found to haue a speciall grace to cure them . And in such desperate diseases & cases , when other remedies will not serue , then we ought to flye to Mithridatium , as Galen writeth of Theriacle . ) For being a noble medicine of great powre , it is not to be vsed in euery affect of little moment .

Wherefore it is written that Mithridatium cureth all infermities of the head in men , and women , if the same doe come of a cold cause : namely it helpeth the melancholy madnes , the Falilng sicknes , the Hemicrane or meagrame , the paines in the eyelids and browes , the watring of the eyes , the paines of the eares , of the teeth , of the mouth , of the iawes , the squinancy , the appoplexy , the litargie , and such other cold diseases of the head : in which cases it is inwardly dronken , & also outwardly applyed , sprede in the forme of an emplastre : it comforteth the hart , & doth good in the passions of the same .

It helpeth the diseased of the breast , cureth the cough , shortnes of breath , spitting of bloud , the pleurisy and stiches of the side , the phthisike & other inward diseases of the breast and loungs . In these later causes , especially for stiches , it is applyed outwardly , spred emplastre waies , and in the chough and such other diseases , it is inwardly ministred with some conuenient liquor : for so it cutteth the grosnes of the phlegme , and maketh it easy to be auoydid , openeth the pipes , and enlargeth all those parts which doe serue for breathing .

To proceede to the affects of the stomake , it prouoketh appetite , remedieth ouer much desire to eat , termed Canina appetentia : for it drieth superfluous , & resolueth & correcteth corrupte humores : it helpeth concoction , by increasing of naturall heate , cureth euill belks , & inflation of the stomacke : for it breaketh winde , and will not suffer any thing to corrupt in the stomacke : it stayeth vomiting by strengthening the stomacke : by keeping the stomacke cleane from winde , superfluous , and euill humores , it taketh away the abhorring of meate .

It doth great good in all diseases of the belly , paynes in the guts , called the Iliaca passio , the bluddy flix , and all other fluxes gieuen with the decoction of the flowers of the pomegranate called Balaustia . In the colike of the belly it is very good , and to ease the paynes of the belly after a purgatiue medicine , it hath a speciall vertue . For it taketh away the malignitie of the medicine , breaketh winde , and doth strengthen parts wekened by the purgatiue medicine . It nourisheth diseases & paynes in the sydes and about the mydriffe , it helpeth the infirmities of the kidnes , and of the bladder , breaketh the stone , remedieth the passions of the matrix , prouoketh the naturall courses in women , and stoppeth the same if they doe abound . For it openeth the passages by extenuating that which by grosnes doth stoppe the wayes : and by making nature stronge , staieth fluxes , which commonly do grow immoderate by weaknes . It diminisheth the swellings & hardnes of the matrix , & of other parts , it doth remedy the barrennes in women , & maketh them fertill . Mithridatium is accompted a speciall good remedy against the payne of the ioynts , to cure the goute and the Sciatica , for that it drieth superfluous humores , stayeth the reume , & maketh all parts stronge . But it must be gieuen , not at the first , when the payn beginneth , but ater : when the rage of the paine is past , and the body ought first to be purged before you gieue Mithridatium . And it vsed before the fits of the goutes , maketh greatly for preseruation , to keepe one from often accessions of the goute . It helpeth the diseases of the sineues , the resolution , that paulsye , the crampe , the diseases called Tetanos Ambrostotonos , and Opistetanos : for it augmenteth naturall heate , dissolueth , by euaporation , humores soken into the syneues , & restoreth the spirits and strength . It helpeth the shaking fits of feauers , & geauen twyse or thrise halfe an houre before the fitte , oftentimes it doth cure the feauer quartan and the quotidian .

Of the vse of Mithridatium .

THe better to know the vse of Mithridatium , we are to consider the time most conuenient to gieue it , the quantity , & the maner of gieuing . For the time , we may with Galen counsaile to minister the same in no wyse vpon a full stomacke , but after concoction is perfit . The vsuall time and best to take it , is in the morning fasting , it is not so good to gieue it when the stomacke and first veines are full of crude and rawe humoures . And before it be gieuen , it is good to procure the belly to be loose , according to Galens counsell in ministring of Theriacle , in his booke ad Pamphilianum .

Of the quantity .

AS Galen writeth in his booke de Theriaca ad Pisonem , so we may affirme that one quantity of Mithridatium is not to bee gieuen to all men , in all times ▪ and in all diseases . And the better to finde out the iust quantity , wee are to remember , that Galen in the sayd booke mentioneth of two quantityes gieuen of Theriacle , the one referred to a hasell nut , the other to a beane of Aegypt . And for that he also affirmeth , that in strong diseases the greater quantity is to be gieuen , and the lesser in light ▪ diseases , and so in great infirmities hee ministreth the quantity of an hasell nut , and in diseases of lesse force , vseth the portion of the beane of Aegypt : it is euident that the hasell nut importeth the greater quantity , and the beane the lesser . So that by Galen the greatest quantity to be gieuen of Theriacle , is measured by an hasell nut , and the least by a beane of Aegypt . And the forme of speach which Galen vseth to expresse these quantities , in my iudgement doth importe the bignesse , and not the weight of the things . For Galen in euery place writeth ad magnitudinem fabae aegyptiae , & so ad magnitudinem nucis auellanae , to the michelty or bignes of a beane of Aegypt , the bignes of an hasel nut . Which maner of spech hath relation to the bignes & not the weight . We are therefore to construe Galen , that in great diseases Theriacle is to be ministred , that his bulke may bee equall with the bignes of an hasell nut , and in other diseases , of a beane of Aegypt . Massarius in his booke de ponderibus reducing these things to weight , saith that Paba Aegyptia importeth a scruple and a halfe , that is , halfe a drachine : and that nux auellana signifieth a drachine . So if we will by weight measure the quantities , the greatest which is to be giuen of Theriacle is a drachine , and the leaste is halfe a drachine .

In that Mithridatium is like to Theriacl● , it may be gieuen in like quantity . And because it is more gentle , and not in quality so whot as Theriacle , and not receiuing the flesh of vipers , nor so great quantity of Opium , it is a more safe medicine ▪ & so may be gieuen in greater quantity , that wee neede not be bounde to an hasell nut , nor to a beane of Aegypt , but may as cause shall require exceede both . For which cause the writers of our antidatory bookes , not without reason doe affirme , that Mithridatium may bee ministred to foure Drachines , that is halfe an ownce . And Durastantes in his commentary vpon Luminare Maius bringing the quantity of a nut , and of a beane to the weight , saith that an hasell nut signifieth an ounce , and the beane of Aegypt halfe a scruple , and because the one proportion is very great , the other ouer litle : therefore he putteth his sensure , that an hasell nut containeth ij . Drachines , or iiij . Drachines at the most . And the beane of Aegypt one Drachine , or ij . Drachines at the most . So that by his opinion we may minister Theriacle to ij . or iij. Drachines , when the disease and the case so requireth . Wherefore wee neede not greatly to feare to gieue Mithridatium in so large a quantity as is prescribed in our antidotaryes , that is , to minister it to halfe an ounce . Neuerthelesse in these dayes wee doe very seldome minister Mithridatium so largely : for most commonly we follow the prescript of Galen , and gieue of it the quantity of a beane , or of an hasell nut . In measure wee prescribe the halfe a drachine and two scruples , and in mighty diseases , and vrgent causes we offerre one drachine , and very seldome doe procede to a greater quantity : which proportions in my iudgement are most vsually to be kept . Yet by this discourse it appereth , that we are not so to be restrained to these quantities , but that we may vpon occasions gieue a greater quantity , if the patient , the disease , & other circumstances doe so require . And hereby also it appeareth , that we cannot so determine the quantity of this medicine , nor of any other , that the same may alway be obserued : but the certaine appointment of the same must bee left to the discretion of him which doth minister the medicine , to prescribe the quantity according to the circumstances of the present case . And therefore it shall not be amisse here to consider more particularly of the circumstances , whereby we may the better attaine to coniecture the iust quantity to bee gieuen in the present case . First therefore wee are to consider the countrey where the party which is to take the medicine , doth inhabite , & here also the time of yeare . And as Galen writeth of Theriacle , that in the East partes & in hoate countryes , in sommer and hoate seasons it is not to be ministred : so we may affirme of Mithridatium , that in hoate countryes & seasons we ought to refraine from much geiuing of it . Wherefore when occasion is to gieue in sommer , we must prescribe a lesser quantity then in winter , and in the spring time . So we may gieue a bigger quantity in these north parts , then in hoater countreyes . The like respect is to be had of the liquore in which wee gieue it , that in hoate places & seasons it be mingled with a cold liquor , as with water : and in cold countries and times with a whot liquore , as with wyne .

The like consideration is to bee had of the temperament of the body , and of the age . In which respect Galen doth forbid cholerike & hoate constitutions to take Theriacle . And such must with more warinesse vse Mithridatium , and in lesser quantity and mingled with some conuenient liquore , moderate the heate of the medicine .

Concerning age , Galen doth forbid the gieuing of Theriacle to children , for ( saith he ) the mightines of the medicine doth exceede the strength of children , and dissolueth their bodies : and telleth an history of a childe destroide by taking of Theriacle . We may therefore admonishe phisitions of these dayes , which doe often & boldly gieue Theriacle to yonge children for the wormes : let them consider what warrant they haue so to doe : it is to be feared lest they endaunger thereby so tender bodyes . And we are to be circumspect in gieuing Mithridatium to children , and to be very wary in the ministring of it , lest we do harme therin . And yet I do thinke we may with more safety minister Mithridatium then Theriacle . To yong men & such as haue much natural heate , we may gieue this medicine : but neither often , nor in great quantity , & in water rather then wine . To men of yeres which are in the declining age , in greater quantity , and in wyne . In respect of the disease we are so to measure the quantity of the medicine , that in a mighty and a strong disease , we gieue a greater quantity . Therefore as Galen wryteth of Theriacle , so we may determine of Mithridatium . In strong poyson , and to such as are bitten and stinged with virulent beastes or mad dogs , we gieue a greater quantity : in other diseases the quantity of the medicine ought to be according to the greatnes of the sicknes . So when there is time to digest the medicine , we may appoynt a greater quantity : when little time is for concoction , then lesser quantity serueth . The like consideration is to be made in all these circumstances of the liquore , in which the medicine is to be dissolued , the same to be of a greater or lesser measure , according to the circumstances : whereof we are to speake more particularly in the maner of gieuing .

Of the manner of gieuing of Mithridatium .

By that we doe reade in Galen in his bookes de Theriaca and de Antidot . yt appeareth that th auncient phisition did seldom , or not at all gieue either Theriacle or Mithridatium dry , and not dissolued in some liquor ▪ and the reason may be , for that they gaue it most commonly before or after poison , or to preserue or cure some pestilentall sicknes , which depended of a malignant cause . In which respect , it seemeth requisite to minister the medicine in lyquid forme , that it might haue the speedy passage through the body , and come to the heart , that the spirites comforted , might the better exsist and the sooner expell the venyme , and the malignity of the affect . For not only Mithridatium and Theriacle , but all other medicines taken in a solide and dry consistence , doe stay in the stomacke longe , and sustaine greater alteration , than when the same is gieuen in a liquid forme . For which cause when we haue intent to comfort the stomacke , to help digestion , to breake wyn●e in the stomacke and belly , then it is conuenient to gieue Mithridatium in drie substance . When intention is to remedy diseases in more inward parts of the body , in all venimous , pestilential and malignant causes , we gieue the medicine dissolued with some liquore . And as we reade in Galen , that hee vsed not alway one liquore , so he maketh mention of these , of water of Mulsa , that is water & hony , which we do cal meade or meath , of mulsum , that is wyne and hony mingled , of acetum mulsum , that is wine , hony and vineger , of posca , that is water & vineger , of certaine decoctions made of hearbs , rootes , and seedes . And it is to bee seene by Galens discourse , that hee made choise of the liquores by indication taken of the countrey , of the time of the yeare , of the age and complexion of the patient , and of the nature and disposition of the disease . So that he gaue a hoat liquore , as wine or wine or wine & hony in cold countryes and times , in aged men , & such as were not of hoate complexions , and had not much naturall heate , & in diseases not ouer hoate , & in strong poysons . Contrariwise in hoate regions , in sommer time , in such as were in the flower of their age , and had cholerike and hoat constitutions , dry bodies , and did abound with naturall heate , in hoate cholerike siknesses , in great feauers , he made choise of a colde liquore hauinge regarde that the liquore might contemper and mitigate in some part the quality of the medicine . Which intentions applied to the gieuing of Mithridatium , it wil be easy to choose a fit liquore ▪ when we are to minister the same in it . For the same circumstances will soone induce vs to make choise of a conuenient liquore ▪ wee may also learne by Galen , that as the circumstnunces are to leade vs to appoyncte the quality of the liquore , as is aforesayde : So the disposition of the disease will teach vs to apt a conuenient liquore in substaunce : for it is agreable to reason , that such a liquore bee gieuen , which may not only mitigate the quality of the medicine , but with hauing also property to doe good in that disease , may further the action of the medicine . So by good reason in pestilentiall agues , in malignant diseases , the pockes , the measels , we doe gieue Mithridatium with the dissolued water of Dragon , or of Carduus benedictus , or in some like decoction , and we doe in such cases many times mingle with the syrupe de acetositat● citri syrupe acetosus , which things doe not only mitigate the heate of the medicine , but also help and further his action . In the cough , and diseases of the breaste and syde , wee may with Galen choose wine and water called mulsum when the patient is without a feauer : in a feauer with water and hony called mulsa . In such a● are shorte breathed , it is best gieuen with vineger compounded with scilla , to them which spit bloude , at the beginning , with water and hony , which we call meade , after , with water only , but the medicine wil be more effectuall , if you doe boyle the rootes of Comfry in it . In diseases and paine of the belly , with water . In stoppages of the lyuer , they yealew Ieaundes , the Dropsie , with an opening decoction , as the decoction of the rootes of Asara bacca . And in respect of the drouth in the Dropsie , it may be gieuen in meade . In diseases of the kidnes and bladder , with the decoction of persley , and in vlcers of the kidnes , with wine and water , in excoriation of the guttes , with a decoction of Sumach : to those which haue the falling sicknes , if they be leaue , with meade , & it were two longe , and to litle purpose thus perticularly to runne thorough all diseases . we may easely appoint a conuenient liquore , and prescribe the quantity of the medicine , & of the liquore , by that which is written , and thought I haue for example sake ( for examples doe best teach ) discoursed in many diseases , appointing such liquores which Galen doth vse and best allowe of , yet I doubt not but an expert man will for the present case , diuise much better , by indication taken of the circumstaunces before mentioned , That a man well weighing these thinges , may quickely knowe the true vse of Mithridatium , and so not erre in the ministration thereof , but gieue the same to the greate good of those , which shall take it , and to the honour of God , whose goodnesse gieueth successe to al medicines , to worke health where and when it pleaseth his holy wisdome .