Sentence:  [T]here exists arguments in favour of regarding one of the eatable varieties of "leaven," "Machmetzeth", as the beer of the Hebrews. The mention of beer by the Egyptians is frequent; under the name of "Hek", two intoxicating beverages are included. The components of these beers, individually, are not known: one was made from <WSD>corn</WSD>, the other was a medicated or sweetened beer, due to the addition of honey, or system of brewing. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  The main cereal plant grown for its grain in a given region, such as oats in parts of Scotland and Ireland, and wheat or barley in England and Wales.