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Melissa
Plants animals and natural materials · A Chymical Dictionary
At a Glance
The word. An alchemical use of Melissa for an herbal extraction.
In the book. Manna includes sweet matter extracted from any subject as well as an aerial dew.
A place to read. The historical definition below, 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 32; facsimile PDF page 360.
Historical Definition
Melissa in alchemy is used for Manna extracted from the best herbs.
Meaning
The scope marker in alchemy is essential. Here Melissa does not simply supply the name of a plant: it denotes Manna extracted from herbs judged best for the purpose. The definition gives neither a list of those herbs nor the method by which the extract is obtained.
Use in the Book
Manna includes sweet matter extracted from any subject as well as an aerial dew. Melissa selects the herbal side of that wider range. Liquor herbarum specifies a different herbal preparation through pounding, pressing and digestion.
Places to Read
Manna. An aerial dew and, more broadly, sweet extracted matter.
Liquor herbarum. An herbal liquor identified through three preparatory actions.
Historical source: 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 32; facsimile PDF page 360 — Facsimile
Sources. A Chymical Dictionary 1650, 1650 dictionary, facsimile PDF page 360, Melissa
See also. Manna; Liquor herbarum