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AGARIC AGARICUS It evacuates phlegm, and is given in defluxions and disorders of the chest, but that only to strong people. This is a fungus which may grow from the size of a man's fist to the size of his head. There are a great variety of these excrescences and they differ both in virtue and the substance on which they grow. Where to find it: One kind grows at the foot of Oak trees and is pleasant to cat, tasting like the meat of a lobster's claw. Touchwood, or Spunk, is made from another kind of fungus growing on Willows. A third kind grows on the trunks of Larch trees. Astrology: It is under the government of Mercury in the sign of Leo. Medicinal virtues: It evacuates phlegm, and is given in defluxions and disorders of the breast, but that only to strong people. It is reckoned a useless medicine, or rather noxious, for it loads the stomach, distends the viscera, creates a nausea, and causes vomiting. Its powder has been prescribed from half a dram (890 mg) to two drams (3.5 g). Modern uses: There are several species of Agaricus, some being poisonous, some being edible mushrooms. Homoeopaths make use of Amanita musearia, Agaricus emeticus, and Amanita phalloides. It is employed as a remedy for acute sensitiveness to cold and damp when there is itching and redness and a burning sensation in the hands and feet. In days gone by it was in constant use during the winter months, but less now since the advent of central heating. |