​Ebenezer Sibly’s A Key to Physic and the Occult Sciences, first published in 1795, stands as a comprehensive compendium that bridges the realms of traditional medicine, astrology, and esoteric philosophy. Sibly, a physician and astrologer, sought to synthesize theological concepts with natural philosophy and emerging medical science. He posited that the human body is a microcosm composed of the four essential elements—earth, water, air, and fire—reflecting the larger universe’s structure. This perspective underscores the interconnectedness between celestial phenomena and human health, suggesting that understanding the cosmos is integral to comprehending bodily functions and ailments.​

The book delves into various disciplines, including herbalism, astrology, mesmerism, and electrical therapy, illustrating Sibly’s holistic approach to healing. He emphasized the significance of celestial and terrestrial symmetries, proposing that the positions and movements of celestial bodies influence earthly events and individual well-being. Sibly’s exploration of magnetism—vegetable, mineral, and animal—highlights his belief in unseen forces affecting health and disease. He argued that these magnetic properties could be harnessed for therapeutic purposes, aligning with the era’s fascination with invisible energies and their potential applications in medicine.​

In the latter sections, Sibly introduced his proprietary remedies: the Lunar Tincture and the Solar Tincture. These concoctions were designed to address ailments specific to women and men, respectively. Claiming to be derived from the “pabulum of the universe,” these tinctures were touted as panaceas capable of treating a wide array of conditions, from gunshot wounds to dog bites. Sibly’s confidence in these remedies reflects the period’s experimental approach to medicine and the blending of empirical observations with mystical beliefs.​

A Key to Physic and the Occult Sciences serves as a testament to the transitional period between medieval and modern scientific thought. Sibly’s work encapsulates the era’s endeavor to reconcile traditional esoteric knowledge with the burgeoning empirical methodologies of the Enlightenment. His integrative approach offers valuable insights into the historical development of medical and philosophical ideas, emphasizing the enduring human quest to understand the intricate connections between the body, the cosmos, and the unseen forces that bind them.