”A Choice Manual, or Rare and Select Secrets in Physick and Chirurgery” is a 17th-century medical compendium attributed to the Right Honourable the Countess of Kent, Elizabeth Grey (1581–1651). First published in 1658, this work offers a comprehensive collection of remedies, surgical techniques, and health practices that were considered both effective and innovative for its time. The Countess’s compilation reflects a blend of empirical knowledge and traditional healing arts, providing insights into early modern medicine and domestic health practices.
The book is organized into various sections, each addressing specific health concerns and treatments. It includes remedies for common ailments such as coughs, consumptions (tuberculosis), kidney stones, and melancholy. Additionally, it offers surgical advice, including methods for treating wounds, bruises, and other injuries. The Countess also provides instructions on preparing medicinal concoctions, such as syrups, waters, and poultices, emphasizing the importance of natural ingredients and careful preparation.
One notable feature of the work is its inclusion of “Gascon Powder,” a medicinal preparation praised for its effectiveness against various diseases, including the plague and smallpox. The Countess details its composition and usage, highlighting its significance in the medical practices of the time. Furthermore, the book discusses the virtues of other substances like Aqua Bezar and Spirit of Clary, offering readers a glimpse into the pharmacological knowledge of the 17th century.
“A Choice Manual” serves as a valuable historical document that sheds light on the medical and surgical practices of the 17th century. It illustrates the integration of herbal remedies, surgical techniques, and preventative measures in early modern healthcare. While some treatments may seem unconventional by today’s standards, the work underscores the ingenuity and resourcefulness of practitioners in an era before the advent of modern medicine. For contemporary readers and scholars, it offers a window into the past, reflecting the evolving understanding of health and healing.