The asp of Libya yields a preparation called the 'septic' drug from its body, which Aristotle presen… — Aristotle

The asp of Libya yields a preparation called the 'septic' drug from its body, which Aristotle presents as the sole known remedy for the bite of that same asp.

By Aristotle, from History of Animals

Key Arguments

He locates the asp geographically: "The asp is found in Libya;".
He states that a medicinal preparation is made from the asp itself: "the so-called ‘septic’ drug is made from the body of the animal,"
He claims exclusivity for this remedy: "and is the only remedy known for the bite of the original."

Source Quotes

There is great variety in the effects produced by the bites of serpents. The asp is found in Libya; the so-called ‘septic’ drug is made from the body of the animal, and is the only remedy known for the bite of the original. Among the silphium, also, a snake is found, for the bite or which a certain stone is said to be a cure: a stone that is brought from the grave of an ancient king, which stone is put into water and drunk off.

Key Concepts

The asp is found in Libya; the so-called ‘septic’ drug is made from the body of the animal, and is the only remedy known for the bite of the original.

Context

Book VIII, section 29, within the survey of venomous animals and their regionally specific effects and cures, where Aristotle notes a self-referential remedy for the Libyan asp’s bite.