Book 1
3
Flatulence is to be expelled both upwards and downwards; for lethargy produces collections of flatus both in the cavities and in the whole frame, from inactivity, torpor, and want of spirit, which motion and watchfulness dissipate; wherefore, having rubbed up green rue with honey and natron, we anoint therewith; it will expel the wind more effectually if one part of the resin of turpentine be added to these things. A fomentation also will expel flatus, either with hot unwashed wool, or with rough old rags, or a sponge with water in which hyssop, marjoram, penny-royal, or rue, have been boiled. The potionsPropomata, or whets. See Paulus Ægineta, vol. iii. p. 544. They correspond to the Liqueurs of the present day, but were taken at the beginning of a feast. Comp. Horat. Sat. ii. 4, ll. 24—27. also which are taken before food expel flatus, and these also bring away phlegm and bile in the stomach and bowels; such are hyssop, boiled mulse, Cretan dictamny, or marjoram: maiden-hair and agrostisProbably the Triticum repens. are acrid, but possessed of expulsive qualities, for indeed they evacuate flatus and urine.
