Botany Section
Opio-(opìum)-(f27v)

Opium (Opium) (f27v)

This herb is used to treat burning or venous-type pain, especially that which is perceived as heavy or oppressive. It is prepared by boiling and applied as an ointment to the affected area. For medicinal purposes, the bark of the root of the jujube tree is pounded into a fine powder, similar in texture to camphor. Likewise, opium is ground, mixed with rhubarb, and then administered orally.                                            
                        
It is considered to regulate the body’s channels and, in conjunction with the liver, to promote the elimination of waste. It is beneficial for the abdomen, useful for the bodily channels, and effective in treating fever, while also contributing to the good condition of the blood. It acts upon the bones as a soothing agent, improves the condition of the joints, specially the knees and helps to preserve the proper balance of bodily fluids.                                            
                        
The leaves of this plant are also used and are pounded for application. The resulting substance may be taken directly or, if necessary, boiled; in that case, the root is used and administered mixed with oil and water. In most cases, it is reduced to a powder and ingested. Another preparation consists of boiling it until it attains the consistency of a very fine, dry powder.                        
            
It is applied in a moist form, and in the case of sores, these are washed with the crushed substance, using it together with honey to relieve pain. It is also useful in the treatment of discharges, cough, and sores.

[Complete translation]

The plant illustrations in this manuscript do not necessarily represent the exact morphology of the identified species, but rather highlight the parts of medicinal interest and their therapeutic uses. The shapes and arrangements are stylized conventions typical of medieval manuscript tradition.

The translation presented here, with the scope indicated on the homepage, is a derivative work protected by copyright. If you use this material, you must cite the translator (Enrique Menéndez Crespo, 2025) and the original source: https://www.voynichdoc.com

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