The Astrological Judgement and Practice of Physick

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Richard Saunders (1613 - 1692) was a prominent astrologer and physician in 17th century England. This work, first published in 1677, reflects thirty years of practice and stands as one of the earliest astro-medical treatises in English. Using the terminology of his time, Saunders discusses humors, winds, and conditions such as hot, cold, or dry, alongside descriptions of various temperaments. The text is comprehensive and demanding, covering rules for decumbiture charts, illnesses associated with traditional planets in zodiac signs, and the timing of medicine administration based on planetary hours. It also serves as a firsthand account of life, death, and medicine during the 16th and 17th centuries, revealing many surprising details. For instance, regarding the Black Plague of 1593, Saunders notes that it was not infectious but arose from a cold cause linked to certain foods, leading to significant mortality rates. The book includes numerous herbal remedies and medieval medical techniques, accompanied by introductions from contemporaries such as William Lilly, John Gadbury, and Henry Coley. This work is considered one of the great astrology texts.