Meaning of saracenic ointment | Babel Free

Definitions

A mixture of mercury, various herbs, and fats, originally used in the treatment of leprosy, and later applied to cases of syphilis.

historical, uncountable

Examples

“One popular ointment for use 'in the early stage of the disease' was the 'saracenic ointment' which was rubbed into the skin.”

“The 'loveable' new king Baldwin IV excelled at his studies with William, but he had to endure a variety of treatments—blood-lettings, oil-rubs in 'saracenic ointment' and enemas.”

“The so-called 'greasers of pox' were active in Europe, anointing their patients with 'saracenic ointment', an unguent invented in earlier centuries for the treatment of leprosy, and consisting of mercury mixed with herbs and oils or fats.”

CEFR level