#fictional medicines

[beastsovrevelation]

Since I have quite a few hurtfics in the works, I have been thinking about what could be the remedy to Holy Water burns. I've decided, it's blood infused with Hellfire. Meanwhile, the remedy to Hellfire burns is angelica (the herb) boiled in Holy Water.

[ink-the-artist]

mage

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Reference: Medicinal Herbs

10 plants for your character's medicinal herb garden

PLANT — When to Plant — Conditions & Care — Medicinal Uses

ALOE VERA — spring/autumn — sunny site indoors; pot up as needed; do not overwater — fresh plant gel for minor burns and wounds

CALENDULA — spring/autumn — well-drained soil; full sun; remove dead flower heads — cream for cuts, scrapes, inflamed skin; infusion for fungal infections

COMFREY — spring/autumn — warm sunny site; moist soil — ointment or poultice for sprains and bruises (use the leaf only)

FEVERFEW — autumn/spring — well-drained or dry, stony soil in sun — fresh leaf or tincture for headaches and migraines

LEMON BALM — spring/autumn — moist soil in sun; cut back after flowering — infusion for anxiety, poor sleep, and nervous indigestion; lotion for cold sores

PEPPERMINT — spring/autumn — sunny but moist site; do not allow to dry out — infusion for indigestion and headaches; lotion for itchy skin

ROSEMARY — spring/autumn — sunny sheltered site; protect with burlap in winter — infusion as a stimulating nerve tonic and to aid weak digestion

SAGE — autumn/spring — well-drained or dry, sunny, sheltered site — infusion for sore throats, mouth ulcers, and diarrhea

ST. JOHN'S WORT — spring/autumn — well-drained to dry soil with sun or partial shade — tincture for depression and menopause; infused oil is antiseptic and heals wounds

THYME — spring/summer — well-drained soil, may need a layer of gravel; sunny site — infusion for coughs, colds, and chest infections; lotion for fungal infections

Source ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[w-i-m-m]

[witless-winion1]

hey if you’re one of those people that are really anxious and sensitive during dentist/orthodontist appointments

just imagine Polites sitting beside you and holding your hand and smiling

“you can relax, my friend”

(muffled “huh?”)

“I can tell you’re getting nervous, so do yourself a service- and try to relax, my friend!”

“Think of all that you have been through, you’ll survive what you get into”

[basicallyanotherwitchesthing]

Vertex, Volume 1/Number 5, Mankind Pub. Co., December 1973

[invinciblevalentine]

hojo pisses me tf off. Like yeah yeah human rights violations unethical science blah blah blah HAVE WE CONSIDERED THE DAMAGE HE’S BEEN DOING TO THE FF7 SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY????

Listen he’d be a morally grey character if his work led to reproducible results that could benefit the rest of humanity but GOOD GAIA does he not even do that.

his sample sizes are SHIT. his experimental design is SHIT. his documentation is SHIT. his biases are VISIBLE. I’m astral projecting into the ff7 universe just to strangle this man and take away whatever diploma he got bc clearly he hired someone to do his PhD for him.

AND HE INSPIRED SO MANY TO FOLLOW IN HIS SHITTY SHITTY FOOTSTEPS. like the only two things we could even marginally call reproducible is his work in making the SOLDIER program and Fuhitos attempt to replicate it with his RAVENs. and even then there were no improvements on the procedure or attempts to create a procedure that left the patients in better health.

which is a CRIMINALLY STUPID THING TO DO TO YOUR GIANT SUPER SOLDIER ARMY. WYM THAT INSANITY IS JUST A POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECT?????

an argument could be made that we just don’t SEE hojos documentation and shit bc we’re playing through the eyes of people who don’t know all that shit.

HOWEVER. if hojo was actually doing any of that he’d have spotted the degradation problem in his animal models first.

BECAUSE WHO THE FUCK JUMPS YO HUMAN SUBJECTS??? ITS NOT JUST UNETHICAL ITS EXTREMWLY EXPENSIVE TO MAINTAIN THE WELLBEING OF AND ACQUIRE A WHOLE HUMAN PERSON.

if he’d started with, like, mouse models to demonstrate how mako treatments affect mammals, he’d have gotten so much more work done and achieved more reliable results. WITH A FRACTION OF THE COST.

BUT NOOOOOOOOOO. APPARENTLY SHINRA SHITS MONEY SO WHO CARES ABOUT SAMPLE SIZES AND STATISTICAL TESTS AND REPRODUCIBLE RESULTS!!

HOJO IS A HACK AND A FRAUD AND A SHIT SCIENTIST TO BOOT. WATCH YOUR BACK BITCH YOUVE HOED YOUR LAST JO.

[redbeanbunsworld-if]

Sinful art 'cause followers on Discord convinced me—

No reposting without permission, please. Reblogs are welcome. ❤️❤️

HD resolution is available on Patreon for $3 tier and up.

NSFW is available on Patreon from $6. NOT YET. Need to gather my sanity first.

[pinacoladamatata]

feeling kind of stressed like i'm running out of time to draw solas

[earthstellar]

A lot of mini-bots (and quite a few other bots) have what might be considered neurodivergent traits (or have been confirmed as such), and I wonder if certain frame types or classes --or Cybertronians in general-- might have physically type-specific processor structures which allow for greater diversity of thought, and if some frame types or spark types might be more or less likely to have or develop neurodivergent traits

We know the Quintessons fucked with the Well of All Sparks in the Aligned Continuity which had unknown effects, and in IDW 1 given the spark as the core of a person's individual spirit (for lack of any better phrasing), it would make sense for Cybertronian sparks to imbue individual personality etc. while the processors are physical hardware with software flexibility to permit and adapt to those unique aspects of self

For example, in the continuities where spark development influences protoform development and therefore what type of frame a bot might ultimately have, it is still simultaneously possible to alter a frame to some degree with armour changes, mass manipulation, etc. (and in most continuities, alt-modes can be altered as well, to at least some degree within the range of someone's core specs)

But the processor and spark are the two things that generally (although we have seen some exceptions to this) cannot be physically altered without incurring significant damage-- Making them some of the few constant components in a species designed to physically change

Sparks have significant individual variation in terms of the personality etc. that evolves from each unique spark, so perhaps processors have some physical elements designed to best accommodate a certain frame type, while also allowing for individual experiences and perception etc. to form unique thought pathways for each individual -- This would allow for any Quintesson or Functionism-related frame alterations or requirements, while also still enabling a spark to produce a unique person as it forms and as experiences accumulate

Sort of like genetics vs epigenetics in human beings; Some things are physical and structural, but some things are informed by environment, experience, etc.

It's interesting that we do seem to see a lot of mini-bots specifically who might fall into a neurodivergent category or exhibit behaviours or thought process that might reasonably fall under the category, but of course it's not universal so there is still greater variation

Although characterisation varies from series to series, here's a couple examples:

Cliffjumper tends to have impulse control problems that are sometimes similar to ADHD impulse control problems, and he sometimes has difficulty prioritising or hyperfixates on one aspect of a situation, leading him to reach the wrong conclusion or focusing on the slightly wrong thing; He also struggles to manage frustration. This could all be related to something similar to executive dysfunction, as it commonly manifests in humans with ADHD.

Bumblebee seems to be conflict-avoidant to some degree in most continuities, and aside from that being part of his friendly nature and kind disposition, it might also hint at something similar to rejection sensitive dysphoria, or a greater sensitivity and emotional response to perceived interpersonal conflict or perceived failure. Some versions of Bumblebee have particularly struggled when faced with high stakes/high risk of failure scenarios, and he has a tendency to internalise blame, directing it towards himself even when a failure is not necessarily his fault or even truly a failed mission. This is often comorbid with Autism and ADHD in humans, but it can also exist on its own.

It's not just mini-bots; Misfire canonically has ADHD in IDW 1, Geomotus in IDW 2 is Autistic and his neurodivergency is even highlighted by other characters, and so on.

So all of this (and how it might work) varies from continuity to continuity, but I just like thinking about how neurodivergent bots do exist, and how that happens and how it manifests and how it is perceived by others and by society at large is interesting

In IDW 2, neurodivergency seems to be viewed in a more understanding and positive light. But in IDW 1, neurodivergency may be viewed in a more ableist way under the Functionist system, and in the Aligned Continuity, perhaps neurodivergency is seen as a potential indication of Quintesson alteration of the Well or of the individual themselves (this would depend on a bot's age).

We don't have too many details on Cybertronian medicine in general, but it's interesting to think about!

It's 8 AM I'm gonna go have a tea now lol

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Herbal Remedies

References (Capsules & Powders; Compresses & Lotions; Creams; Decoctions; Infused Oils; Infusions; Ointments; Poultices; Syrups; Tinctures; Tonic Wines; Other Preparations)

CAPSULES & POWDERS

Powdered herbs are most easily taken as capsules but can be sprinkled on food or taken with water.

Externally, they can be applied as a dusting powder to the skin or mixed with tinctures as a poultice.

COMPRESSES & LOTIONS

Lotions are water-based herbal preparations such as infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures that are used to bathe inflamed or irritated skin.

Compresses are cloths soaked in a lotion and held against the skin.

Both are simple ways to use herbs externally and can be very effective in relieving swelling, bruising, and pain, soothing inflammation and headaches, and cooling fevers.

CREAMS

Making a cream involves combining oil or fat and water in an emulsion. If the process is rushed, the oil and water may separate.

Unlike ointments, creams blend with the skin and have the advantage of being cooling and soothing while at the same time allowing the skin to breathe and sweat naturally.

They can, however, deteriorate quite quickly and are best stored in dark, airtight jars in a refrigerator.

DECOCTIONS

Roots, bark, twigs, and berries usually require a more forceful treatment than leaves or flowers to extract their medicinal constituents. A decoction involves simmering these tougher parts in boiling water.

Fresh or dried plant material may be used and should be cut or broken into small pieces before decocting. Like infusions, decoctions can be taken hot or cold.

INFUSED OILS

Infusing an herb in oil allows its active, fat-soluble ingredients to be extracted; hot infused oils are simmered, while cold infused oils are heated naturally by the sun.

Both types of oil can be used externally as massage oils or added to creams and ointments.

Infused oil should not be confused with essential oil, which is an active constituent naturally present in a plant and has specific medicinal properties and a distinct aroma.

Essential oil may be added to an infused oil to increase its medicinal efficacy

INFUSIONS

An infusion is the simplest way to prepare the more delicate aerial parts of plants, especially leaves and flowers, for use as a medicine or as a revitalizing or relaxing drink.

It is made in a similar way to tea, using either a single herb or a combination of herbs, and may be drunk hot or cold.

OINTMENTS

Ointments contain oils or fats heated with herbs and, unlike creams, contain no water. As a result, ointments form a separate layer on the surface of the skin.

They protect against injury or inflammation of damaged skin and carry active medicinal constituents, such as essential oils, to the affected area.

Useful in conditions such as hemorrhoids or where protection is needed from moisture, as in chapped lips and diaper rash.

POULTICES

A poultice is a mixture of fresh, dried, or powdered herbs that is applied to an affected area.

Used to ease nerve or muscle pains, sprains, or broken bones, and to draw pus from infected wounds, ulcers, or boils.

SYRUPS

Honey and unrefined sugar are effective preservatives.

Can be combined with infusions or decoctions to make syrups and cordials.

They have the additional benefit of having a soothing action, and therefore make a perfect vehicle for cough mixtures as well as relieving sore throats.

With their sweet taste, syrups can disguise the taste of unpalatable herbs and are therefore greatly appreciated by children.

TINCTURES

Tinctures are made by soaking an herb in alcohol. This encourages the active plant constituents to dissolve, giving tinctures a relatively stronger action than infusions or decoctions.

They are convenient to use and last up to 2 years.

Tinctures can be made using a jug and a jelly bag, instead of a wine press. Although mainly used in European, American, and Australian herbal medicine, tinctures play a part in most herbal traditions.

TONIC WINES

Tonic wines are an agreeable way to take strengthening and tonic herbs to increase vitality and improve digestion.

Neither strictly medicinal, nor simply appealing to the palate, they are easy to prepare at home.

Made by steeping tonic herbs in red or white wine for several weeks.

OTHER PREPARATIONS

Steam Inhalations

Steam inhalations are an effective way to clear congestion and relieve sinusitis, hay fever, and bronchial asthma.

The combination of steam and antiseptic ingredients clears the airways throughout the respiratory system.

Gargles & Mouthwashes

Gargles and mouthwashes usually contain astringent herbs, which tighten the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.

As gargles and mouthwashes are made from infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures, they can generally be swallowed for internal treatment. Ensure you do not exceed the daily internal dose of an herb.

Pessaries & Suppositories

Pessaries and suppositories are waxy pellets containing essential oil or fine powder.

They are used when oral medicine is likely to be broken down during digestion before reaching its intended site.

Pessaries are inserted into the vagina and suppositories into the anus, where they melt at body temperature.

The herb is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing fast relief. It is best to buy ready-made suppositories.

Essential Oils

Essential oils can be used in massage to soothe minor aches and pains.

Before use, they should be diluted with a carrier oil as they can irritate the skin.

Essential oils deteriorate rapidly after dilution, so it is best to mix small quantities as you need them.

Baths & Skin Washes

Herbal baths and skin washes can relieve many conditions, including aching limbs and stuffy sinuses.

They are made from diluted essential oils or infusions.

Eyebaths soothe sore, inflamed, or irritated eyes.

Cold Macerations

Heat destroys the active constituents of some herbs.

Thus, a cold maceration might be more appropriate than a decoction.

Juices

The juices extracted from many herbs.

Can be taken internally or applied externally.

Source ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[fiddlesqueak-fables]

A Brief Overview of Sargonatus Pestis.

[This is a work of fiction, please correct me if I made any egregious scientific errors.]

[cardiaccadillac]

Someone’s done a really thorough analysis of how a binary vascular system may work and I appreciate it.

[andhumanslovedstories]

Also do you have any nursing book recommendations (not study books I mean novels)

Okay so it's not nurses exactly but from Terry Pratchett, the Tiffany Aching series and the Discworld witches are basically my nursing icons. From Granny Weatherwax to Tiffany Aching to Nanny Ogg to the witches that are a little too into crystals and all that, I just think something about the witches captures the good and bad of the spirit of nursing better than basically anything else.

But that's literally it, I don't have other nursing vibe novels and I would also love them. Recommendations please, anyone who has any.

(Actually, I do have another one sort of, which is the Protector of the Small series protagonist Kel by Tamora Pierce, but that one's maybe so tangentially related it only exists in my head. There's something about a work ethic dedicated to unglamorous labor that just gets me.)

[consult-sherlockholmes]

What happened with the pigeon?

John and I are currently visiting avian veterinary specialists at the Royal Veterinary College. With the pigeon of course. They are examining it and informed us that the pigeon has a foreign body lodged in its crop. Which I obviously already knew. But they did not seem to react positively to me declaring that I had already figured that out. The foreign body is quite big and very hard. They were unable to access it, and wonder how it got into the pigeon, given its size. At first they assumed it's our pet pigeon and wanted to reprimand us how we could let this happen, but then I explained the situation.

To identify the foreign body they will x-ray the pigeon now. The clinical examination showed that the pigeon didn't feed in a few days because of the object lodged in its crop, blocking its esophagus. They said it was the right course of action to catch the pigeon and bring it to them, or it might have died. There you see, John, I saved the pigeons life.

[cochineal-leviat]

I was just thinking about this, but in the Pokemon world, do you think there are zoo's?

This popped into my head because I was writing about foster care for Pokemon, but what would the point of Pokemon zoos be when you can own a dragon-type pet? Do you need a special licence for owning aggressive Pokemon? What are the laws around owning Pokemon in the Pokemon world? Are trainers exempt from an exotic pet-keeping licence? What are the exact recuperations if one of your Pokemon causes damages in both public and private settings? Is there insurance protecting against these possibilities?

Okay, but back to the first idea: zoos. Does the Pokemon world need them? Their whole point is to see animals you would never see in everyday life and to educate the public about them. That is why they are still allowed to operate today irl even though the origins of zoos started to gawk at foreign animals for the rich.

After all, if anyone can raise whatever Pokemon they want, as long as they take proper care of it, what is the point of a zoo? I suppose it could be used as a sanctuary for Pokemon that cannot return to their native regions. Since the modern Pokemon world is so Pokemon-friendly, I can see the governments of the areas only allowing these zoos to exist as long as they follow the rules to protect their denizens. You do not want a Gyarados to escape and make a lake close to civilisation its home.

I just think zoos wouldn't be as popular in the Pokemon world as they are in ours. With the Aether foundation from the Sun and Moon and Ultra games, there was an emphasis on rehabilitating Pokemon before it was revealed they were evil. I believe genuine work was done there since we have a character like Wicke who disagreed with Lusamine and took full responsibility for Aether Foundation's corruption. Still, with the experiments with Type: Null, it is hard to say how much of it was done to keep up good appearances. (honestly, the existence of Type: Null and its design is pretty horrifying if you delve deeper into it. I remember playing Moon and being hit by Fridge Horror while exploring the lower labs of the foundation. Say whatever you want about Pokemon, but their subtle sense of horror keeps me going).

However, there would be large support to help domesticated and wild Pokemon to find a home again. I can easily imagine a human making it their life's goal to rehabilitate Pokemon and help them find a new trainer. Since domesticated animals cannot return to the wild. Maybe Pokemon can since most are caught and have lived in the wild before. But there are plenty of animals in our world that cannot go back to the wild because of an injury or because they have gotten used to human contact. It is difficult, to say the least.

But what happens to released Pokemon that come from breeders? I am guilty of this as I used to shiny hunt the Musada Method (Gen 7 was the perfect gen to this with the Hot Springs. My favourite shiny Egg was an accidental use of this as I used to breed Dratini's to trade over the GTS, so I filled my Pokedex without needing a copy of Sun or a second 3DS). If you put even an ounce of realism into this mechanic, that means the breeding pool of that particular species is in danger if they are released in bulk. And that is not to mention if breeding a Pokemon with a Ditto has lasting side effects for that Pokemon's lineage. I imagine that if it is harmful in the Pokemon world, several laws would be laid out to prevent inbreeding in the wild and domestically. (Ugh, I got reminded of puppy mills)

To produce milk, meat, and other Pokemon (animal) products, there has to be a big industry for that too in the Pokemon world. It has to be done on such a large scale, too, since the Pokemon world doesn't consist of just the four regions of Kanto, Jhoto, Hoenn and Sinnoh anymore. They are more like countries now than the definition of a region.

Pokemon contests, especially, must be heavily regulated since they are essentially Pokemon-focused beauty pageants. I wonder if Pokemon contests are considered controversial, like irl beauty pageants. (BTW, I love Pokemon contests from DPP; I am not dissing them. This is just a thought exercise)

Idk, my brain kinda went on a tangent. All of these ideas would be fun to explore in my writing. If anyone wants to add to this, go ahead. I am curious what people think of this.