This study deals with the chapter on
poisons (Sümum) of Gunyetü'l-Muhassilin, a translation, and a pamphlet on antidotes called Panzehir, by Ahmed Sani,one of the most prominent figures of the Ottoman physicians. As a foreword, the terminology related with the subject; and an introduction to the Islamic medical theory, the basis of the subject, is discussed. The main topics on
poison are; protection against and treatment of
poisons; being poisoned by the
sting of insects, snakes etc. and diseases such as
rabies, as a result of
bites of animals and their treatment; treatment of poisoned
suppuration;
insecticide drugs and measures; and common drugs against all kinds of
poisons. Immunization and nutrition with respect to being poisoned; and preventive measures against insects; and
mineral and organic antidotes are also discussed. The classification of diseases and treatment are evaluated on the humoral theory basis. The treatment of insect
poisoning is viewed from the perspective of its symptoms. The pamphlet named Panzehir is about a special
antidote, the
bezoar stone. This
antidote is divided into two, of the
mineral and the animal origin; and the uses of the
bezoar are discussed.A vocabulary is added to help readers to understand the terminology.