CHAP. XIV.OfJamaica-Pepper-water.
Jamaica-Pepper, or Pimento, is the Fruit of a tall Tree growing in the mountainous Parts ofJamaica, where it is much cultivated, because of the great Profit arising from the cured Fruit, sent in large Quantities annually intoEurope.
It is gathered, when green, and exposed to the Sun for many Days on Cloths, and frequently shaked and turned, till thoroughly dry; great Care is taken during the Time of drying to defend the Fruit from the Morning and Evening Dews; when thoroughly dried it is sent over to us.
It is a very noble Aromatic, and deserves to be used more frequently than it is at present. The simple Water drawn from it is a better Carminative than any other simple Water at present in use.
Take ofJamaica-Pepper half a Pound. Water two Gallons and a half; draw off one Gallon, with a pretty brisk Fire. The Oil of this Fruit is very ponderous, and therefore this Water is best made in an Alembic.