CERVUS ALCES
\sˈɜːvəs ˈalsɪz], \sˈɜːvəs ˈalsɪz], \s_ˈɜː_v_ə_s ˈa_l_s_ɪ_z]\
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The hoof of this animal was anciently used as an antiepileptic. The animal, it was asserted, was subject to attacks of epilepsy, and always cured them by putting its hoof into the ear. The hoof was also worn as an amulet. Cornu Ustum, Burnt Hartshorn, has been used as an antacid, but it consists of 57 parts of phosphate, and only one of carbonate of lime. It is, therefore, not of much use.
By Robley Dunglison
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.