A Decoction of Sarsa.
Take Sarsa 3 ounces; Raisins 1 ounce and half; Infuse according to Art, and decoct in Water 2 quarts to 1 quart; in the strin'd Liquor dissolve Spanish Juice of Liquorice 2 drams.
I was contented not to omit this, because the whole throng of Physicians with one Mouth crieth it up, and daily prescribes it, to sweeten sharp Humours, and cure vagous Pains.
Truly its a temperate Remedym, if it be any at all. But for my part (if I may have to speak out my own Experience and private Sense) I have often seen, where Sarsa and China, have obtunded the vigour of the Stomach; but never in all my Practice, could I once observe much good from them, to any one. Peradventure my having so slight an Opinion of 'em might take me off from continuing their use long enough to see what they would ahve done.
It useth to be order'd to half a pint, two or three times a day.
Thomas Fuller
Pharmacopeia Extemporanea 1710