SECT. XXX.—FOR DULNESS OF HEARING.
Dulness of hearing may be prevented by clearing away the sordes from the meatus, and by occasionally introducing into the ear a piece of linen dipped in a calefacient ointment (dropax), pressing it down, and then drawing it out; for this completely clears the opening, and at the same time, stimulates the sense of hearing. Afterwards, the meatus is to be plugged up with a piece of wool of the size of a tare for a day; and, when it is taken out, the meatus is to be anointed with the oil of almonds, of spikenard, or of chamomile, with the fat of geese, or a small quantity of ox gall. Again, after a time, rubbing mustard and figs together, introduce the collyrium thus prepared, for two hours; and then take it out and pour in oil heated in the hollow of the root of the asphodel.
Commentary. This is taken from Oribasius. (Synops. v, 23.)
Rhases particularly directs great care to avoid indigestion, which, without doubt, is occasionally the cause of indistinct hearing. He recommends some almond oil to be introduced into the meatus, and cautions against exposure to cold wind. (Ad Mansor. iii, 23.)