Hydropic Ale.
Take Broom ashes (sifted from the Coals) half a pound; Roots of Horse-Radish 4 ounces; Orris, Calamus, Aromaticus, Elecampane, each 2 ounces; Guaiacum, Sassaphras, Juniper-berries, Daucus-seed, each 1 ounce; Mustard-seed, 2 ounces: Prepare all for 4 gallons.
By assisting concoction, melting down the gelly'd lympha, removing obstructions, and provoking urine, it wonderfully relieves those that labor under an anasarca; but as for the dropsie, call'd ascites, and where the lymphatick vessels are burnt, I am of opinion, in these cases, 'twill do more hurt than good.
Thomas Fuller
Pharmacopeia Extemporanea 1710