A New Booke of Destillatyon of Waters, Called the Treasure of Euonymus is a significant 16th-century work that delves into the art and science of distillation. Originally penned in Latin by Konrad Gesner, a Swiss physician and naturalist, it was translated into English by Peter Morwen and published in London in 1565. The book serves as a comprehensive guide to preparing and distilling medicinal waters, aiming to preserve health through natural remedies. It reflects the era’s growing interest in harnessing nature’s secrets for medical purposes, blending traditional knowledge with emerging scientific methods.​

The text is structured to provide practical instructions on the distillation process, detailing the equipment needed and the steps involved in extracting medicinal properties from various plants. It emphasizes the importance of precise techniques to ensure the efficacy of the resulting waters. The book also includes a table or index to help readers locate specific remedies, making it a user-friendly resource for practitioners and laypeople alike. This approach underscores the democratization of medical knowledge during the Renaissance, as information became more accessible to a broader audience.​

In addition to its practical applications, the book offers insights into the philosophical underpinnings of medicine at the time. It discusses the “wonderful hid secrets of nature,” suggesting a belief in the inherent wisdom and healing power of the natural world. This perspective aligns with the holistic view of health prevalent in the period, where maintaining balance and harmony within the body was paramount. The work thus serves not only as a manual for distillation but also as a reflection of contemporary medical and philosophical thought.​

The enduring relevance of A New Booke of Destillatyon of Waters lies in its synthesis of empirical practice and traditional wisdom. It represents a pivotal moment in the history of medicine, where empirical observation began to complement long-standing beliefs. By documenting and disseminating methods for creating natural remedies, the book contributed to the evolution of medical practice and the broader understanding of health and healing. Its legacy persists in the continued interest in herbal medicine and the appreciation of nature’s role in promoting well-being.