Bolus Rubra or Bole Armenian is a red clay-rich earth, found not only in Armenia but in several countries of Europe including France.  A ‘bole’ - a clod of earth, was formed and stamped for sale. It is rich in argil (alum), and was mixed with iron and lime.  Once an esteemed tonic and astringent, and applied as a styptic, it is now rarely used.  - 1858 U.S. Pharmacopeia.