The “Kleines Destillierbuch,” authored by Hieronymus Brunschwig and published in 1500, stands as a foundational text in the realm of medicinal distillation. As the first German-language book on distillation, it bridges traditional herbal knowledge with the emerging scientific methodologies of the time. Brunschwig, a Strasbourg-based physician and surgeon, meticulously compiled this manual to guide practitioners in the art of extracting therapeutic essences from natural substances. The book’s structure is methodically divided into three main sections: the first details various distillation apparatuses and techniques; the second presents monographs of medicinal plants; and the third offers a compendium of diseases alongside corresponding remedies derived from the distilled substances.​

In the initial section, Brunschwig provides comprehensive descriptions of distillation equipment, including alembics and furnaces, emphasizing the importance of proper construction and use. He outlines five distinct distillation methods, ranging from simple filtration to more complex processes involving heat and condensation. This part serves not only as a technical guide but also reflects the author’s deep understanding of the principles underlying effective distillation, aiming to preserve the integrity and potency of the extracted essences.​

The second section delves into the botanical aspects, offering detailed profiles of various plants suitable for distillation. Each entry includes the plant’s names in Latin, Greek, and Arabic, followed by descriptions of its physical characteristics, habitat, and medicinal properties. Brunschwig’s approach combines classical knowledge with his observations, contributing to the early development of botany as a scientific discipline. Notably, he discusses the collection and distillation of “Maientau” or May dew, highlighting its reputed benefits for skin ailments and its role as a solvent in preparing other herbal remedies.​

The final section serves as a practical reference for treating various ailments, organized from head to foot. It links specific health conditions to the appropriate distilled remedies detailed in the previous sections, facilitating a holistic approach to healing. Brunschwig’s work reflects a synthesis of empirical practice and scholarly research, embodying the transitional period between medieval and modern medical thought. The “Kleines Destillierbuch” not only influenced contemporaneous practitioners but also laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements in pharmacology and herbal medicine.