[192] “Magi.” He probably alludes in this passage to the Magi of the East.
[193] See B. xvi. cc. 30, 43.
[194] The cornel, probably. It was looked upon as “infelix,” or ill-omened, because it was sacred to the Deities of the infernal regions.
[195] See B. xvi. c. 31. If this is the Salix vitellina. Fée says, all that Pliny here states as to its medicinal properties does not merit the slightest attention.
[196] See B. xii. c. 51. The botanical characteristics, Fée says, and the medicinal properties of the privet, differ essentially from those of the Cypros or Lawsonia inermis. The leaves of the privet are bitter and astringent.
[197] Fée says, that on reading this passage it is impossible to preserve one’s gravity.
[198] In B. xvi. c. 62. The ivy is but little used for any of the purposes of modern medicine. It is said by some authorities that a decoction of the leaves will kill vermin, and that the berries are purgative and emetic.
[199] “Nervis.”
[200] Fée states that in reality no such similarity exists; but that acetic acid is sometimes developed by the rapid fermentation of the juices of a great number of vegetable substances.
[201] “Golden fruit.” See B. xvi. c. 62.