Illiterate heads have been led on by the name [SN: Μάνδρα, Spelunca.], which in the first syllable expresseth its Representation; but others have better observed the Laws of _Etymology_, and deduced it from a word of the same language, because it delighteth to grow in obscure and shady places; which derivation, although we shall not stand to maintain, yet the other seemeth answerable unto the Etymologies of many Authors, who often confound such nominal Notations. Not to enquire beyond our own profession, the Latine Physitians which most adhered unto the _Arabick_ way, have often failed herein; particularly _Valescus de Tarranta_, [SN: _In the old Edition._] a received Physitian, in whose _Philonium_ or Medical practice these may be observed: _Diarhea_, saith he, _Quia pluries venit in die. Herisepela, quasi hærens pilis, Emorrohis, ab emach sanguis & morrohis quod est cadere. Lithargia à Litos quod est oblivio & Targus morbus, Scotomia à Scotus quod est videre, & mias musca. Opthalmia ab opus Græce quod est succus, & Talmon quod est occulus. Paralisis, quasi læsio partis. Fistula à fos sonus & stolon quod est emissio, quasi emissio soni vel vocis._ Which are derivations as strange indeed as the other, and hardly to be parallel'd elsewhere; confirming not only the words of one language with another, but creating such as were never yet in any. The received distinction and common Notation by Sexes, hath also promoted the conceit; for true it is, that _Herbalists_ from ancient times have thus distinguished them, naming that the Male, whose leaves are lighter, and Fruit and Apples rounder; but this is properly no generative division, but rather some note of distinction in colour, figure or operation. For though _Empedocles_ affirm, there is a mixt, and undivided Sex in Vegetables; and _Scaliger_ upon _Aristotle_ [SN: De Plantis.], doth favourably explain that opinion; yet will it not consist with the common and ordinary acception, nor yet with _Aristotles_ definition. For if that be Male which generates in another, that Female which procreates in it self; if it be understood of Sexes conjoined, all Plants are Female; and if of disjoined and congressive generation, there is no Male or Female in them at all. [Sidenote: _The impostures touching the Root of Mandrake._]