Bodleian Script - Carrot (original) (raw)

The text takes the usual formula of the Pseudo-Apuleius Herbal; first, an identification of the plant by its picture and by its various alternative ancient names (not translated); secondly, a very brief description of its habitat; thirdly, recipes describing the plant's medicinal uses. Here, then, is an attempt at an English translation of the already corrupt Latin text as presented specifically in MS. Bodl. 130:

"[Chapter] 47.

By the Greeks it is called 'Stafilimagriam',

others call it 'Giger',

others 'Eggon',

the Romans call it 'Udonaulion',

the Carthaginians call it 'Siccansade'

the Itali [Calabria region, southern Italy] call it 'Pastinaca siluatica'.

It grows in stony places and mounds.

FOR WOMEN WHO SUFFER AT CHILDBIRTH AND ARE NOT PURGED.

With 'Herba pastinaca', cooked, together with the same water in which it was cooked, you take 30 peppercorns; mix together and give to drink; she will be purged.

The same recipe as written above also works against toothache."

[Added by a later English hand at the head of the script, perhaps 15th or 16th century: 'A Carett']

Many thanks to Dr. B. C. Barker-Benfield Senior Assistant Librarian, Department of Special Collections & Western Manuscripts,Bodleian Library for the above translation and background information.