Tradition:

Western, Unani

Source / Author:

Mesue

Preparation:

Seethe the juice and sugar together until it starts to become thick, removing the scum as it arises; when it is almost cold, add the other ingredients in fine powder. This was commonly made into a Solid Electuary

Function:

Clears Heat, Purges Bile

Use:

1. Heat-type Headache
2. Dizziness
3. Inflammatory Pain
4. Pain caused by Heat or Bile
5. Fever from excess Bile
6. Inflammation of the Eyes
7. Jaundice

Dose:

2–3 drams, up to 6 drams, usually taken in the morning with a decoction of Raisins or Bugloss etc.

Comment:

Wirtzung (1598) said “This present Confection named of the juice of Roses, is one of the chiefest purging confections. This Confection purges Choler [Bile] without any anguish, and it is also good for all pain of the members, which be caused through hot choleric rheums, also for the Tertian Ague, and to other more such like hot accidents”.

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

1. A French version out of Renodeus used 1 lb. of Rose juice to 1 1⁄2 lbs. of Sugar, so it will more quickly be boiled to a suitable thickness. It also substituted Mastic for the Tabasheer, and added Citron peel.
2. For Jaundice: Electuary of Rose juice 1.5 drams, Conserve of Prunes 3 drams, Distilled Water of Dodder 3 oz., Honey of Roses 1 oz.
3. Another for Jaundice: Electuary of Rose juice 2 drams, Rhubarb 0.5 dram, Cream of Tartar 1 scruple, Syrup of Chicory and Rhubarb, qs. Form a bolus to be taken first thing in the morning with Rhenish wine. (Sydenham)
4. For Dizziness: take 10 dried Prunes and 1 oz. of Sour Dates; boil in 6 oz. of water down to 3 oz.; add 2.5 drams of Electuary of Rose juice. Take this warm as a dose. (Wirtzung)

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