Herbal Encyclopedia - C

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" rowspan="2" width=210 BGCOLOR="#9999FF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="03f76ba3.gif"> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=90 BGCOLOR="#99CCFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="04076bc1egdyqn.gif"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFFFCC" FACE="Arial" ><B>Wicca</B></FONT><B>   |   </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Wicca"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id22.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Before You Cast"><U>Before You Cast</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id17.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Banishing Spells"><U>Banishing Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id18.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Bath Spells"><U>Bath Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id19.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Blessing Spells"><U>Blessing Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id20.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Breaking Spells"><U>Breaking Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Candle Spells"><U>Candle Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id24.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Cleansing Spells"><U>Cleansing Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id25.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Dream Spells"><U>Dream Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id33.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Emotion Spells"><U>Emotion Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id26.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Employment Spells"><U>Employment Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id44.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Energy Spells"><U>Energy Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id45.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Fertility Spells"><U>Fertility Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id46.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Friendship Spells"><U>Friendship Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id47.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Invisibility/Levitation Spells"><U>Invisibility/Levitation Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id48.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Glamour Spells"><U>Glamour Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id49.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Habit Spells"><U>Habit Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id50.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Healing Spells"><U>Healing Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id51.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herb Spells"><U>Herb Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id52.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="House Spells"><U>House Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id53.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Incense Spells"><U>Incense Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id80.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Jar/Bottle Spells"><U>Jar/Bottle Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id81.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Justice Spells"><U>Justice Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id79.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Lost Thing Spells"><U>Lost Thing Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id82.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Love Spells"><U>Love Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id83.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Love Leave Spells"><U>Love Leave Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id84.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Luck Spells"><U>Luck Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id85.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Money Spells"><U>Money Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id86.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Moon Spells"><U>Moon Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id87.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Object Spells"><U>Object Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id88.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Oil/Ointment Spells"><U>Oil/Ointment Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id89.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Peace Spells"><U>Peace Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id90.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Poppet Spells"><U>Poppet Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id91.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Potion Spells"><U>Potion Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id92.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Protection Spells"><U>Protection Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id93.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Reverse Spells"><U>Reverse Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id94.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Spirit Spells"><U>Spirit Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id95.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Stone/Gem Spells"><U>Stone/Gem Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id96.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Strength Spells"><U>Strength Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id97.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Tool Spells"><U>Tool Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id98.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Truth Spells"><U>Truth Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id99.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Weather Spells"><U>Weather Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id100.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Wish Spells"><U>Wish Spells</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id101.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia A"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - A</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id102.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia B"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - B</U></A>   |   <B>Herbal Encyclopedia - C</B>   |   <A HREF="id104.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia D"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - D</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id105.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia E"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - E</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id106.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia F"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - F</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id107.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia G"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - G</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id108.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia H"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - H</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id109.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia I"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - I</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id110.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia J"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - J</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id111.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia K"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - K</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id112.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia L"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - L</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id113.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia M"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - M</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id114.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia N"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - N</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id115.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia O"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - O</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id116.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia P"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - P</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id117.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia Q"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - Q</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id118.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia R"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - R</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id119.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia S"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - S</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id120.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia T"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - T</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id121.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia U"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - U</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id122.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia V"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - V</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id123.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia W"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - W</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id124.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia X"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - X</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id125.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia Y"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - Y</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id126.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia Z"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - Z</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id127.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Crafts"><U>Herbal Crafts</U></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" height=390 colspan=2 BGCOLOR="#99CCFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="04076ba3.gif"> <div> Herbal Encyclopedia - C</div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <A HREF="http://www.thehungersite.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.thehungersite.com"><U><IMG SRC="0c55f1c0.gif" border=0 width="95" height="28" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> Get a good dose of good karma. Save a life. Click a button.</div> <div> <IMG SRC="0d1d4e50.gif" border=0 width="212" height="229" ALT="Bitmap Image" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> <B>Herbs & Oils</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>~ C ~</B></div> <bR> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="c"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <B><U>CAMPHOR</U></B>: <I>(Cinnamomum camphora)</I> This white, intensely scented, crystalline substance is distilled from a tree native to China and Japan. The essential oil is steam-distilled from wood, rootstumps, and branches. For many years true camphor wasn't sold in the U.S. All "camphor blocks" and mothballs were made of synthetic camphor which is extremely poisonous. </div> <div> Both the leaf and crystallized extract are used for wet lung conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Camphor is useful in depression, exhaustion, and stomach cramps and to improve circulation. Use about two teaspoons of leaf per cup of water and steep for twenty minutes. Take one-fourth cup four times a day. Alternatively, use one teaspoon of the crystallized extract per two cups of water. Take it in one-teaspoon doses four times a day. The tincture is also available and is used in doses of five to ten drops four times a day. Campohor is incorporated into salves for external use to kill parasites and treat ringworm, scabies, and itch. The oil open the lungs, making breathing easier, and helps with muscular and joint pain, arthritis, and bruises (<I>not</I> for open wounds). The salve functions as a "smelling salt," and the herb has been used internally to revive those in coma or delirium. Camphor can be burned to purify the air or inhaled to open lung passages.</div> <div> <B>Caution:</B> <I>Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or if you are very weak and debilitated. Only natural plant extracts should be used, as chemical camphor is contaminated with industrial poisons.</I></div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Crystallized extract and leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I>: (Solid Form) Camphor is added in small amounts to Lunar and chastity type mixtures, (Eucalyptus or Lavender oil may be substituted). Divination; Prophetic Dreams; Psychic Awareness. Burn in the home to purify the air and to dispel disease.</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses</U></I>: Coughs; Colds; Fevers; Rheumatism; Arthritis. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CARAWAY</U></B>: <I>(Carum carvi)</I> Caraway is a hardy biennial with finely cut feathery leaves, umbels of small flower heads in midsummer and capsules containing two curved narrow seeds. The seeds are a popular spice, especially in Central Europe. They enhance port, goulash, sauerkraut, cheese, and pickles and are added to cooking cabbage to reduce the smelll. They flavor brads and cakes and are eaten raw or sugar-coated as Caraway comfits after a spicey meal. They sweeten the breath, aid digestion, and relieve flatulence. Chopped leaves are added to soups and salads, and the root is cooked as a vegetable. Essential oil, distillled from the seeds, flavors gin, candy, the liqueur <I>Kümel</I>, and mouthwashes, and scents soaps, and aftershaves. The seeds are antiseptic and a vermifuge. Caraway seeds have been used in cooking since the Stone Age.</div> <div> The powdered seeds are taken in doses of one-fourth to one teaspoon to promote digestion and relieve gas. Caraway tea also relieves menstrual cramps, as it helps to bring on the menstruation. Caraway increases breast mile. To make the tea, steem three teaspoons of the ground seeds in one-half cup of water for twenty minutes (use a kitchen blender to lightly crush the seed). Take up to one and a half cups a day in one-fourth cupdoses, or simply chew the seeds. One to four drops of the essential oil may be taken as a digestive aid. For colicky babies, soak one ounce of the ground seed in a pint of cold water for about six hours. The dose is from one to three teaspoons of the ifusion, or boil three teasoons of seed in one-half cup of milk for a few minutes, then steep for ten minutes. The powdered seeds are moistened to make a poultice for bruises and earaches.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Seed, leaf, root and essential oil</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I>: Caraway is often added to love potions to keep lovers from being unfaithful. The seeds are placed in poppets and used in spells to fing one's mate. They are said to inspire lust when baked into cakes or breads. Put some in your wedding cake, or use it instead of rice to throw at the bride and groom. Pigeons are very fond of it too!</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CARDAMOM</U></B>: <I>(Elettario cardamomum)</I> This perennial bears violet-striped white flowers and aromatic green fruits on erect or trailing racemes. The seed pods are an expensive spice, sold as whole green, bleached, or sun-dried cardamom. The seeds are digestive, stimulant, and antispasmodic, and rhizome is given for fatigue and fever. The essential oil from almost-ripe fruits is used in liqueurs and perfumes. Cardamom seeds are a symbol of hospitality.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Seed</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I>: Deliciously spicy, cardamon essential oil brings a nice jolt of energy to live and sexually oriented formulas. Burn for love spells or use in love sachets. The ground seeds are added to warmed wine for a quick lust potion. They are also baked into apple pies for a wonderful amatory pastry.</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses</U></I>: Nausea; Coughs; Headaches; Aches; as a Digestive and Tonic; Dyspepsia; Mental Fatigue; Nervous Strain; Halitosis; Anorexia; Colic. Key Qualities: Cephalic; Aphrodisiac; Warming; Comforting; Refreshing; Uplifting; Penetrating; Soothing. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CARNATION</U></B>: <I>(Dianthus caryophyllus)</I> Also called Pink , Clove Pink or Gilly Flower. This short lived perennial has blue-green grasslike foliage and spicy, fragrant long-lasting flowers in the summer. This "Flower of Divinity" and symbol of betrothal, woven into garlands is the parent of cultivated carnations, although is seldom available in its true for. Fortunately, the petals of any clove-scented Pink, with the bitter white heel removed, can be added to fruit dishes, sandwiches, soups, and sauces, or used to make floral syrup, vinegar, liqueur, or wine. This was Chaucer's "sops in wine" and is still enjoyed as a nerve tonic today. The strong-sweet spicy scent is used in soaps and perfumes. Worn during Elizabethan times to prevent coming to an untimely death on the scaffold.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Flower petals</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Altar offering for the Goddess; Anointing; Protection; Strength; Health and Healing; Energy; Power; Magical Power; Blessing; Consecration. Can be used in all purpose protective spells.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CATNIP</U></B>: <I>(Nepeta Catoria)</I> A Druid sacred herb. The root and leaf scent, minty with cat pheromone overtones, intoxicates cats and repels rats and flea beetles. The tender leaves are added to salads and flavor meat. They can also be brewed as tea and were used before China tea was imported. The leaves and flowering tops treat colds, calm upset stomachs, reduce fevers, and soothe headaches and scalp irritations. When smoked, leaves give mild euphoria with no harmful effects.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Chewed by warriors for fierceness in battle. Large dried leaves are powerful markers for magic books. Give it to your cat to create a psychic bond. Used in spells to promote beauty; happiness; love. Use in all Cat Magic Spells.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CASSIA</U></B>: <I>(Cinnamomum aromaticum </I>var.<I> cassia)</I> This is the highest grade of Cinnamon. See Cinnamon.</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Purification</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> See cinnamon</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CEDARWOOD</U></B>: <I>(Cedrus libani or Cedrus spp.)</I> A Druid sacred herb. Also known as Cedar, Tree of Life, Arbor Vitae (<I>Thuja occidentalis</I>) or Yellow Cedar (<I>T. occidentalis</I>). Ancient Celts on the mainland used cedar oil to preserve the heads of enemies taken in battle. The wood of the Atlas Cedar subspecies is distilled to produce the essential oil. </div> <div> Yellow cedar is used by herbalists to trat bloody cough and heart weakness. Simmer two teaspoons per cup for twenty minutes and take it ccold in one-tablespoon doses, three to six times a day. It is used internally and externally as an antifungal (the dry powder is excellent for Athlete's foot).</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Twig and leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Cedar smoke purifies the home. Use it in smudge sticks, incense and sweat lodges. The scent is said to enhance psychic powers. I use it in a simmering pot which smells much better than the burning herb, it makes the whole house smell clean and sweet. Use for: Purification; Health and Healing; Luck; Good Fortune; Happiness; Banishing; Releasing; Exorcism; Money and Riches; Justice; Protection; Harmony; Peace.</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> Bronchitis; Catarrh; Acne; Arthritis; as a Diuretic; Sedative; Antiseborrhoeic.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CHAMOMILE</U></B>: <I>(Chamaemelum nobile </I>or <I>Anthemis nobilis)</I> Also called Roman chamomile, English chamomile, Perennial Chamomile, Wild Chamomile, and Ground Apple. A Druid Sacred Herb, this aromatic evergreen has feathery, apple-scented leaves and white flowers with conical golden centers. The flowers make a digestive, soothing and sedative tea, which is used for soothing restless children, helps prevent nightmares and insomnia, and suppresses nausea. The flower compounds have shown anti-tumor activity in laboratory tests. In the garden it is a "physician plant" reviving nearby ailing plants. The essential oil is a beautiful blue color turning yellow as it ages.</div> <div> This herb has an affinity for the solar plexus area of the human body. Colic, upset stomachs, and fevers are benefitted by the tea of the fresh or dried flower. Use two tablespoons per cup, steep for twenty minutes, and take a quarter cup four times a day. Women with menstrual cramps can try adding a few thin slices of fresh ginger root to the tea. Chamomile is an antibacterial. Sores, wonds, itches, and rashes respond to external applications. Use the tea as a wash or add the herb to salves and poultices. The oil is rubbed into swollen joints. Chamomile calms the nerves and brings on sleep. Use it in baths and gargles. Add the tea to a vaporizer to help asthmatic children. The classic tea for cranky, teething babies, it is given in the bottle or through a mother's breast milk.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Flower</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Yellow chamomile brings the power of the sun to love potions, money spells and rites of purification. Use in incense for the God. When sprinkled around the house it removes hexes, curses and spells. It can be burned or added to prosperity bags to increase money. Use for: Love; Luck; Fortune; Justice; Prosperity; Purification; Meditation; Rest. </div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> Nerves; Migraine; Acne; Inflammation; Insomnia; Menstrual Problems; Dermatitis; Analgesic; Tension Headache; Stress. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CHERRY</U></B>: <I>(Prunus serotina)</I> A Druid sacred tree, chips of the wood or bark were burned at Celtic festivals especially Sabbats. Also known as Black Cherry, Wild Cherry or Chokecherry (P. virginiana). Chokecherry bark tea is used to clear the throats of singers and public speakers, the powdered berries were once used to improve the appetite. If you've never tried chokecherry jelly, you've missed a real treat. <B>CAUTION:</B><I>The stone is poisonous.</I></div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Fruit, bark and wood</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> (Wood and Fruit Juice) Creativity; Healing; Long been used to attract Love; Cherry juice is used as a substitute for blood in old recipes. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CINNAMON</U></B>: <I>(Cinnamomum verum </I>or<I> zeylanicum)</I> A tropical evergreen tree up to 50 feet tall. Cinnamon sticks are quills from the inner bark and the essential oil is distilled by water or steam from the leaves and twigs. </div> <bR> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Bark</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> (Herb and Oil) Meditation; Defense; Creative Work; Divination; Energy; Power; Protection; Success; Astral Projection; Health and Healing; Love Lust; Money and Riches; Purification. </div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> (Oil)Lice; Scabies; Wasp Stings; Poor Circulation; Childbirth (stimulates contractions); Anorexia; Colitis; Diarrhea; Dyspepsia; Intestinal Infection; Sluggish Digestion; Spasm; Flu; Rheumatism; Warts; Coughs; Colds; Viral Infections; Frigidity; Infectious Disease; Stress Related Conditions; Tooth and Gum Care; Nervous Exhaustion. Key Qualities: Warming; Reviving, Tonic; Strengthening; Aphrodisiac; Restorative; Uplifting. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CINQUEFOIL</U></B>: <I>(Pontentilla reptans)</I> Also called Five Fingered Grass, Creeping cinquefoil, and Five Leaved Grass. The rootstock was cooked as a vegetable by the Celts and Native Americans. Applied to sore areas, the fresh plant relieves pain. A root decoction is used in anti-wrinkle creams. A wash reduces skin redness, freckles, and sunburn. </div> <div> The powdered root and leaf are used to stop internal hemorrhaging. The powder also makes an astringent for mouth sores and treats diarrhea. Taken with honey, it relieves sore throats, coughs, and fever. Take one-quarter to one-half teaspoon at a time, or twenty to forty drops of the tincture. The leaves can be steeped using two teaspoons per cup of water for twenty minutes, or one ounce of the root can be simmered in one and a half cups of water for twenty minutes. The dose is a quarter cup four times a day. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Root and leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I> Use the infusion in ritual baths and for purification rites. Cinquefoil bestows eloquence and protection to the wearer; bring it to court. Love, powerm wisdom, health, and abundance are symbolized by its five petals. Prick a hole in an egg, drain it and fill it with cinquefoil. Tape the egg shut, and your home and property are protected. Bathe in the infusion every seven days to ward off evil influences. Prosperity, Protection; Defense; Purification; Anointing; Divination Dreams; Energy; Strength; Luck; Fortune; Justice; Healing; Inspiration; Wisdom; Love;. Hang at the door for protection. Add to purificatory bath sachets. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CLOVE</U></B>: <I>(Syzgium aromaticum)</I> Cloves are the sun-dried unopened flower buds of a dense evergreen tree, they have a strong spiciness that flavors foods and prevents nausea. The flowers are used to soothe aching eyes. Clove oil, from the distillation of leaves and flower buds, is an antiseptic numbing agent for toothache and indigestion. It is added to cosmetics, perfumes, and cigarettes. There are now Clove-based anesthetics.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Leaf and flower bud</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I>: Use for: Divination; Love; Lust; Banishing; Releasing; Inspiration; Wisdom. Burn for Wealth; Purification; to ward negative thoughts; or to stop others from gossiping about you. </div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> Nausea; Flatulence; Asthma; Bronchitis; Arthritis; Rheumatism; Toothache; Diarrhea; Infections; as an Analgesic and Antiseptic; Insect Repellent (Mosquitoes). Key Qualities: Tonic; Stimulating; Revitalizing; Aphrodisiac; Warming; Comforting; Purifying; Active. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CLUB MOSS</U></B>: <I>(Lycopodium selago or clavatum)</I> Also called Selago, Foxtail, Lycopod, Vegetable Sulpher, Wolf Claw or Stag's Horn Moss. This toxic, evergreen, mosslike herb has trailing stems, upright branches and developing cones encasing the ripe spores. The spores were once used for gastric and urinary disorders, as an antispasmodic sedative and to coat pills. Blackfoot Indians knew of the spores' blood-stanching, wound-healing and moisture-absorbing properties and inhaled them for nosebleeds and dusted them on cuts. They are still used on wounds and ecxzema. The spores are explosive when set alight, and used to create theatrical lightening and added to fireworks. Magicians once used them to create "lightening flashes" and other pyrotechnics as needed. These effects were originally intended as a form of sympathetic magic -of evocation by emulation - not simply (or deceptively) as stage effects.</div> <div> The club mosses are found in North America, northern Europe, Asia, and the southern hemisphere. The plants are several inches in height and resemble moss. They creep by means of prostrate stems, which branch upward at intervals, with crowded, linear, simple leaves. Large two valved spore cases product the medicinally active spores. </div> <div> While the whole plant was used by the ancients as a cathartic, the spores were used as a diuretic in edema, a drastic (a forceful agen of cure) in diarrhea and dysentery, a nervine for rabies and spasms, a mild laxative in cases of gout and scurvy, and a corroborant (strengthening agent) for rheumatism. The dose is ten to sixty grains of the spores. </div> <div> The spores also make a dusting powder for skin diseases and diaper rash. </div> <div> <B>CAUTION:</B><I> Selago can be an active narcotic poison when overused.</I> For this reason it is probably better to use only the spores, which are non-toxic. The whole plant can be used externally, however, as a counterirritant - made into a poultice, it will keep blisters open and kill lice. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Above-ground portions of the herb, and spores.</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I>: Druids respected the plant to sucha degree that it was gathered only under strict ritual guidlelines. One of the Ovates would dress in white, bathe both feet in free-running water and offer a sacrifice of bread and spirits, and then with white robe wrapped around the right hand, using a brass hook, would dig up the plant by the roots. When properly gathered, the herb becomes a charm of power and protection. Wear it, add it to incense, adn use it to commune with the Gods and Goddesses.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>COMFREY</U></B>: <I>(Symphytum officonale)</I> Also known as Slippery Root, Knitbone or Blackwort. Teas, tinctures and compresses of comfrey roots or leaves speed healing of cuts, rashes, and broken bones. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Root and leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses</U></I> Root or leaves for healing. Carry for safe travel. To ensure the safety of your luggage while traveling, tuck a piece of the root into each of your bags. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>COPAL</U></B>: <I>(Bursera odorata)</I> Copal is a white, pale yellow or yellowish-orange gum resin. When smoldered on charcoal it produces a rich, delicious, piney-lemony fragrance. Copal is North America's equivalent of Frankincense. While it lacks some of frankincense's bittersweet odor, it is a fine substitute. When frankincense if left smoldering on charcoal for some time it eventually emits a very bitter scent. Copal, however, never varies as it burns. It is native to Mexico and Central America, and has been used as incense in religious and magical ceremonies for untold hundreds of years, beginning, perhaps, with the Mayans or even prior to the days of that fables people.</div> <div> The finest copal is a pale to dark yellow color with an intense resinous-citrus odor. It is usually sold in chunks and may contain leaf fragments.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Resin</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Burn for protection; cleansing; purification; to promote spirituality; and to purify quartz crystals and other stones before use in magic. May be substituted for Frankincense. A piece of copal may be used as the heart in poppets. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CORIANDER</U></B>: <I>(Coriandrum sativum)</I> The whole of this annual is pungently aromatic. The seed is a mild sedative, aids digestion, reduces flatulence, and eases migraines. The spicy essential oil, distilled from the seeds, is used in perfumes and incense, flavors medicines and toothpaste, and is added to massage oil for facial neuralgia and cramps.</div> <div> The seeds are strangthening to the urinary system. The leaf and seed are infused to treat bladder infections. The tea helps with stomach problems such as gas and indigestion. Steep two teaspoons of the dried seed per cup of boiled water fro twenty minuts, and take up to one cup a day. The powdered seed and the oil are used to flavor other herbal prepartations and to ease griping in laxative formulas. Use one-fourth to one-half teaspoon at a time. Coriander is a common ingredient of Indial curries. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Seed and leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Coriander oil works well in love and healing mixtures. The seeds are used for healing, especially easing headaches and are worn for this purpose. Add the powdered seeds to warm wine to make an effective lust potion. Put some in the chalice for a handfasting ritual. </div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> Eating Disorders; Colic; Diarrhea; Dyspepsia; Measles; Migraine; Neuralgia; General Infections; Indigestion; Influenza, Fatigue; Rheumatism; Flatulence; Nervousness; as an Analgesic, Stimulant, Aphrodisiac. Key Qualities: Aphrodisiac; Stimulating; Soporific (In excess); Refreshing; Warming; Comforitng; Revitalizing; Strengthening; Purifying; Soothing; Active. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>CYPRESS</U></B>: <I>(Cupressus sempervirens)</I> This tall evergreen tree has gray-brown bark, and tiny, dark green leaves. It bears yellowish male cones and green female cones, which ripen to brown. Cypress Oil, distilled from the leaves, branches, and cones, has a refreshing, camphor-resinous scent.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Leaf, twigs, fruit, bark, wood, resin and essential oil. </div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Burn for Happiness; Harmony; Peace; Inspiration; Binding; Wisdom; Releasing; Defense; Longevity. Cypress Oil is used for Blessing; Consecration, and protection. The unique scent stimulates healing and eases the pain of losses of all kind.</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses:</U></I> Skin Care; Perspiration; Wounds; bruises; Hemorrhoids, Varicose Veins; Cellulitis; Muscular Cramps; Edema; Poor Circulation; Rheumatism; Asthma; Bronchitis; Spasmodic Coughing; Dysmenorrhea,; Menopausal Problems; Nervous Tension; Stress-related Conditions; Treats inflamed/bleeding gums; Insect Repellent. Key Qualities: Refreshing; Purifying; Relaxing; Warming; Reviving; Restorative; Comforting; Protective; Soothing. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> Culpeper/Grieve</div> <bR> <div> Cabbage Tree</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Andira inermis </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Antidote<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Vouacapoua inermis. Bastard Cabbage Tree. Worm Bark. Yellow Cabbage Tree. Jamaica Cabbage Tree. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Bark. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Jamaica and other West Indian Islands. Senegambi. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---A leguminous tree, growing very tall and branching towards the top called Cabbage Tree because it forms a head in growing; it has a smooth grey bark which, cut into long pieces, is the part utilized for medicine. It is thick, fibrous, scaly, and of an ashy brownish colour externally, covered with lichens - the inside bark is yellow and contains a bitter sweet mucilage, with an unpleasant smell. In Europe the bark of another species, Avouacouapa retusa, has been utilized. It grows in Surinam, is a more powerful vermifuge than Vouacapoua inermus and does not as a rule produce such injurious after-effects. In the dried state it is without odour, but has a very bitter taste; when powdered it has the colour of cinnamon. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---Jamaicine-Andirin aglucoside, an inodorous, bitter, acrid resin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Narcotic vermifuge. Cabbage Tree bark used in large doses may cause vomiting, fever and delirium, especially if cold water is drunk just before or after taking it. In the West Indies it is largely employed as a vermifuge to expel worm - ascaris lumbrecoides - but if used incautiously death has been known to occur. The powder purges like jalap. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Dosages---Usually given in decoction, though the powder, syrup and extract are all used. Dose of powder, 20 to 30 grains. Fluid extract, 1/4 to 1 drachm. </div> <div>  <A NAME="ant"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Antidote---Lime-juice or Castor oil. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Other Species---Andira retusa, a Brazilian species, has purple flowers, the odour of oranges and a slight aroma. The fruit is said to smell like tonka beans. </div> <bR> <div> Cacao</div> <div> Botanical: Theobroma cacao (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Sterculiaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description and History<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Cocoa. Chocolate Tree. </div> <div> ---Part Used---The seeds. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Topical America. Cultivated in Ceylon. Java. etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description and History---Cacao was named Theobroma by Linnaeus, the word meaning 'food of the gods,' so called from the goodness of its seeds. Mexicans named the pounded seeds 'Chocolate.' The tree is handsome, 12 to 16 feet high; trunk about 5 feet long; wood light and white coloured; bark brown; Ieaves lanceolate, bright green, entire; flowers small reddish, almost odourless; fruit yellowy red, smooth; rind fleshcoloured; pulp white; when seeds are ripe they rattle in the capsule when shaken; each capsule contains about twenty-five seeds; if separated from the capsule they soon become infertile, but if kept therein they retain their fertility for a long time. The tree bears its leaves, flowers and fruit (like the orange tree) all the year round, but the usual season for gathering the fruit is June and December. In Mexico during the time of the Aztec kings the small seeds were utilized as coins twelve approximating to the value of 1d., the smallest actual coin in use then being worth about 6d. The seeds were necessary for small transactions. The method is still in use in some parts of Mexico. The tree is generally cultivated on large estates under the shade of other trees, such as the banana and develops the pods continuously. When ripe they are cut open and the beans or nuts surrounded by their sweetish acid pulp are allowed to ferment so that they may be more easily separated from the shell. The beans are then usually dried in the sun, though sometimes in a steam drying shed. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---The seeds contain about 2 per cent. of theobromine and 40 to 60 per cent of solid fat. The shells contain about 1 per cent of theobromine, together with mucilage, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Cocoa is prepared by grinding the beans into a paste between hot rollers and mixing it with sugar and starch, part of the fat being removed. Chocolate is prepared in much the same way, but the fat is retained. Oil of Theobroma or cacao butter is a yellowish white solid, with an odour resembling that of cocoa, taste bland and agreeable; generally extracted by expression. It is used as an ingredient in cosmetic ointments and in pharmacy for coating pills and preparing suppositories. It has excellent emollient properties and is used to soften and protect chapped hands and lips. Theobromine, the alkaloid contained in the beans, resembles caffeine in its action, but its effect on the central nervous system is less powerful. Its action on muscle, the kidneys and the heart is more pronounced. It is used principally for its diuretic effect due to stimulation of the renal epithelium; it is especially useful when there is an accumulation of fluid in the body resulting from cardiac failure, when it is often given with digitalis to relieve dilatation. It is also employed in high blood pressure as it dilates the blood-vessels. It is best administered in powders or cachets. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Dosage---Theobromine, 5 to 10 grains. </div> <bR> <div> Cactus</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >(Night-Blooming) Cereus</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cajuput</div> <div> Botanical: Melaleuca leucadendron (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Myrtaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Adulterants<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Cajeput. White Tea Tree. Swamp Tea Tree. White Wood. </div> <div> ---Part Used---The oil. </div> <div> ---Habitat---East Indies, Tropical Australia. Imported from Macassar, Batavia, Singapore, Queensland and N.S. Wales. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---The tree has a long flexible trunk with irregular ascending branches, covered with a pale thick, lamellated bark it is soft and spongy and from time to time throws off its outer layer in flakes; leaves entire, linear, lanceolate, ash colour, alternate on short foot-stalks; flowers sessile, white, on a long spike. The leaves have a very aromatic odour and the oil is distilled from the fresh leaves and twigs, and is volatile and stimulating with an aroma like camphor, rosemary, or cardamom seeds; taste bitter, aromatic and camphoraceous. Traces of copper have been found in it, hence the greenish tint; it should be stored in dark or amber-coloured bottles in a cool place. Cajuput oil is obtained from Melaleuca leucadendron, Roxburgh, and the minor Smith, but several other species of Melaleuca leucadendron are utilized such as M. hypericifolia, M. veridifolia, M. lalifolia, and others. The Australian species M. Decussata and M. Erucifolia are also used. The oil is fluid, clear, inflammable, burns without residue, highly volatile. The trace of copper found may be due to the vessels in which the oil is prepared, but it is doubtless sometimes added in commerce to produce the normal green tinge when other species have been used which do not impart it naturally. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---The principal constituent of oil is cineol, which should average 45 to 55 per cent. Solid terpineol is also present and several aldehydes such as valeric, butyric and benzoic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, stimulant, antiseptic, anthelmintic. Highly stimulant, producing a sensation of warmth when taken internally, increasing the fullness and rapidity of the pulse and sometimes producing profuse perspiration. Used as a stimulating expectorant in chronic laryngitis and bronchitis, as an antiseptic in cystisis and as an anthelmintic for round worms, also used in chronic rheumatism. Applied externally, it is stimulant and mildly counter-irritant and is usually applied diluted with 2 parts of olive oil or turpentine ointment. Used externally for psoriasis and other skin affections. </div> <div>  <A NAME="adu"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Adulterants---The oils of Rosemary and Turpentine, impregnated with Camphor and coloured, are said to be used. Spirit of Cajeput, B.P., 5 to 20 minims. Oil U S P., 3 to 10 minims. Oil, B.P., 1/2 to 3 minims. </div> <bR> <div> Calabar Bean</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Physostigma venenosum (EALF.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparation of Dosages<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Poisons and Antidotes<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Ordeal Bean. Chop Nut. </div> <div> ---Part Used---The seeds. </div> <div> ---Habitat---West Africa, Old Calabar. Has been introduced into India and Brazil. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---The plant came into notice in 1846 and was planted in the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens, where it grew into a strong perennial creeper. It is a great twining climber, pinnately trifoliate leaves, pendulous racemes of purplish bean-like flowers; seeds are two or three together in dark brown pods about 6 inches long and kidney-shaped thick, about 1 inch long, rounded ends, roughish but a little polished, and have a long scar on the edge where adherent to the placenta. The seeds ripen at all seasons, but are best and most abundant during the rainy season in Africa, June till September. The natives of Africa employ the bean as an ordeal owing to its very poisonous qualities. They call it esere, and it is given to an accused person to eat. If the prisoner vomits within half an hour he is accounted innocent, but if he succumbs he is found guilty. A draught of the pounded seeds infused in water is said to have been fatal to a man within an hour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---The chief constituent is the alkaloid physostigmine (eserine), with which are calabarines, eseridine, and eseramine. Eseridine is not employed medicinally. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Chiefly used for diseases of the eye; it causes rapid contraction of the pupil and disturbed vision.Also used as a stimulant to the unstriped muscles of the intestines in chronic constipation. Its action on the circulation is to slow the pulse and raise blood-pressure; it depresses the central nervous system, causingmuscular weakness; it has been employed internally for its depressant action in epilepsy, cholera, etc., and given hypodermically in acute tetanus. Physostigmine Salicylas is preferred for the preparation of eyedrops. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparation of Doses---Extract of Calabar Bean, B.P.: dose, 1/4 to 1 grain. Extract of Physostigma, U.S.P.: dose, 1/8 grain. Tincture of Calabar Bean, B.P.C.: dose, 5 to 15 minims. Tincture of Physostigma, U.S.P.: dose, 15 minims. Physostigmine Eyedrops, B.P.C. Physostigmine eye ointment, B.P.C. Fluid extract, 1 to 3 drops. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Poisons and Antidotes---In case of poisoning by the beans the stomach should be evacuated and atropine injected until the pulse quickens. With poisoning by physostigmine the stomach should be washed out with 0.2 per cent of potassium permanganate and atropine and strychnine administered hypodermically. </div> <bR> <div> Calamint</div> <div> Botanical: Calamintha officinalis (MOENCH) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Labiatae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Mill Mountain. Mountain Balm. Basil Thyme. Mountain Mint. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---Calamint belongs to a genus closely related to both the Thymes and to Catnep and Ground Ivy. </div> <div> It is an erect, bushy plant with square stems, rarely more than a foot high, bearing pairs of opposite leaves, which, like the stems, are downy with soft hairs. The flowers bloom in July and August, and are somewhat inconspicuous, drooping gracefully before expansion: the corollas are of a light purple colour. </div> <div> The plant grows by waysides and in hedges, and is not uncommon, especially in dry places. It may be cultivated as a hardy perennial, propagated by seeds sown outdoors in April, by cuttings of side shoots in cold frames in spring, or by division of roots in October and April. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---It contains a camphoraceous, volatile, stimulating oil in commonwith the other mints. This is distilled by water, but its virtues are better extracted by rectified spirit. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Actions and Uses---Diaphoretic, expectorant, aromatic. The whole herb has a sweet, aromatic odour and an infusion of the dried leaves, collected about July, when in their best condition and dried in the same way as Catmint tops, makes a pleasant cordial tea, which was formerly much taken for weaknesses of the stomach and flatulent colic. It is useful in hysterical complaints, and a conserve made of the young fresh tops has been used, for this purpose. </div> <div> Culpepper says that it 'is very efficacious in all afflictions of the brain,' that it 'relieves convulsions and cramps, shortness of breath or choleric pains in the stomach or bowels,' and that 'it cures the yellow jaundice.' He also recommends it, taken with salt and honey, for killing worms: </div> <div> 'It relieves those who have the leprosy, taken inwardly, drinking whey after it, or the green herb outwardly applied, and that it taketh away black and blue marks in the face, and maketh black scars become well coloured, if the green herb (not the dry) be boiled in wine and laid to the place or the place washed therewith.' </div> <div> He also considers it 'helpful to them that have a tertian ague,' and beneficial in all disorders of the gall and spleen. </div> <div> Gerard says, 'the seede cureth the infirmities of the hart, taketh away sorrowfulnesse which commeth of melancholie, and maketh a man merrie and glad.' </div> <div> The LESSER CALAMINT (Calamintha nepeta) is a variety of the herb possessing almost superior virtues, with a stronger odour, resembling that of Pennyroyal, and a moderately pungent taste somewhat like Spearmint, but warmer. It is scarcely distinct from C. officinalis, and by some botanists is considered a sub-species. The leaves are more strongly toothed, and it bears its flowers on longer stalks. Both this and the Common Calamint seem to have been used indifferently in the old practice of medicine under the name of Calamint. </div> <div> The name of the genus, Calamintha, is derived from the Greek Kalos (excellent because of the ancient belief in its power to drive away serpents and the dreaded basilisk - the fabled king of the serpents, whose very glance was fatal. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> BASIL, BUSH<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> BASIL, SWEET<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> BASIL, WILD<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> THYME, BASIL<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Calamus Aromaticus</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Sedge</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Calisaya</div> <div> Botanical: Cinchona calisaya (WEDD.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rubiaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Used<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Jesuit's Powder. Yellow Cinchona. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Bark. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Tropical valleys of the Andes. Bolivia and Southern Peru. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---Cinchona is an important genus and comprises a large number of evergreen trees and shrubs, flowers white and pinkish arranged in panicles, very fragrant. Not all the species yield cinchona or Peruvian bark. The most important is called Calisaya or yellow bark. Its great value as a tonic and febrifuge depends on an alkaloid, quina (Quinine). This substance chiefly exists in the cellular tissue outside the liber in combination with kinic and tannic acids. Calisaya yields the largest amount of this alkaloid of any of the species - often 70 to 80 per cent of the total alkaloids contained in the bark which is not collected from trees growing wild, but from those cultivated in plantations. The bark for commerce is classified under two headings: the druggist's bark, and the manufacturer's at a low price. The great bulk of the trade is in Amsterdam, and the bark sold there mainly comes from Java. That sold in London from India, Ceylon and South America. Mature Calisaya bark has a scaly appearance, which denotes maturity and high quality. It is very bitter, astringent and odourless. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---The bark should yield between 5 and 6 per cent of total alkaloids, of which not less than half should consist of quinine and cinchonidin. Other constituents are cinchonine, quinidine, hydrocinchonidine, quinamine, homokinchonidine, hydroquinine; quinic and cinchotannic acids, a bitter amorphous glucocide, starch and calcium-oxalate. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >PERUVIAN BARK</FONT>. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparations and Dosages---Decoction of Cinchona, B.P., 1/2 to 2 fluid ounces. Elixir of Cinchona or Elixir of Calisaya, B.P.C., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Tincture of Cinchona, B.P.C., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Cinchona wine, B.P.C., 1/2 to 1 fluid ounce. </div> <bR> <div> Calotropis</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Calotropis procera (R. BR.) and gigantea </div> <div> Family: N.O. Asclepiadaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Antidotes<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Mudar Yercum. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Bark, root-bark. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Native of Hindustan, but widely naturalized in the East and West Indies and Ceylon. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---The dried root freed from its outer cork layer and called Mudar. It occurs in commerce in short quilled pieces about 1/5 to 1/10 of an inch thick and not over 1 1/2 inch wide. Deeply furrowed and reticulated, colour greyish buff, easily separated from periderm. Fracture short and mealy, taste bitter, nauseous, acrid; it has a peculiar smell and is mucilaginous; official in India and the Colonial addendum for the preparation of a tincture. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---A yellow bitter resin; a black acid resin; Madaralbum, a crystalline colourless substance; Madarfluavil, an ambercoloured viscid substance; and caoutchouc, and a peculiar principle which gelatinizes on being heated, called Mudarine. Lewin found a neutral principle, Calatropin, a very active poison of the digitalis type. In India the author's husband experimented with it for paper-making, the inner bark yielding a fibre stronger than Russian hemp. The acrid juice hardens into a substance like gutta-percha. It has long been used in India for abortive and suicidal purposes. Mudar root-bark is very largely used there as a treatment for elephantiasis and leprosy, and is efficacious in cases of chronic eczema, also for diarrhoea and dysentery. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparations---Tincture of Calatropis, 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Powder, 3 to 12 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="ant_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Antidotes---As an antidote to poisoning atropine may be administered. In severe cases the stomach pump may be used and chloral or chloroform administered. Amyl nitrite may also be useful. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> ASCLEPIAS<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> PLEURISY ROOT<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> SWAMP MILKWEED<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Calumba</div> <div> Botanical: Jateorhiza calumba (MIERS) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Menispermaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Cocculus Palmatus. Colombo. </div> <div> ---Part Used---The dried root sliced transversely. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Forests of Eastern Africa. Indigenous to Mozambique, where it is abundant in the forests. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---A dioecious climbing plant with a perennial root, consisting of several tuberous portions, flowers small and inconspicuous, the root is dug in dry weather, in March, but only the fusiform offsets are used; the old root is rejected and the brightest, least worm-eaten and well-shaped pieces are preferred. The root and powder, if kept any length of time, are liable to be attacked by worms; the colour of the freshly prepared powder is greenish, later on it turns brown and when moistened very dark; it quickly absorbs moisture from the air and is apt to decompose, so only a small quantity should be prepared at a time. Odour aromatic, taste very bitter, rind more so than the central pith, which is somewhat mucilaginous. It is rarely adulterated since the price has been lowered. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---Columbamine, Jateorhizine and Palmatine, three yellow crystalline alkaloids closely allied to berberine; also a colourless crystalline principle, Columbine, and an abundance of starch and mucilage. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---A bitter tonic without astringency, does not produce nausea, headache, sickness or feverishness as other remedies of the same class. It is best given as a cold infusion; it is a most valuable agent for weakness of the digestive organs. In pulmonary consumption it is useful, as it never debilitates or purges the bowels. The natives of Mozambique use it for dysentery It allays the sickness of pregnancy and gastric irritation. In Africa and the East Indies it is cultivated for dyeing purposes. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparations---Calumba is generally combined with other tonics. For flatulence, 1/2 oz. of Calumba, 1/2 oz. of ginger 1 drachm of senna, added to 1 pint of boiling water, is taken three times daily in wineglassful doses. </div> <div> Calumba can be safely combined with salts of iron and alkalies, as it does not contain tannic or gallic acid. The powdered root, 10 to 15 grains. The solid extract, 2 grains. The powdered extract, 2 grains. The fluid extract, 10 to 30 minims. The infusion, B.P., 1/2 to 1 drachm. The tincture, B.P. and U.S.P., 1/2 to 1 drachm. The concentrated solution, B.P. 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <bR> <div> Camellia</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Tea</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Campanula</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Rampion</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Camphor</div> <div> Botanical: Cinnamonum camphora (T. NEES and EBERM.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Lauraceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations and Dosages<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0cc336600.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Steadman Shorter's Medical Dictionary, 1942, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Poisons & Antidotes: Camphor</FONT> </div> <div> ---Synonyms---Laurel Camphor. Gum Camphor. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Gum. </div> <div> ---Habitat---China, Japan, and adjacent parts of East Asia. Formosa official in the U.S.P. Dryobalanops aromatica is indigenous to Borneo and Sumatra. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---Camphor is a white crystalline substance, obtained from the tree Cinnamonum camphora, but the name has been given to various concrete odorous volatile products, found in different aromatic plants. The commercial Camphor comes only from C. camphora and Dryobalanops camphora (fam. Dipterocarpacaea). The first gives our official Camphor, the latter the Borneo Camphor, which is much valued in the East, but unknown in Europe and America. C. camphora is an evergreen tree looking not unlike our linden; it grows to a great size, is manybranched, flowers white, small and clustered, fruit a red berry much like cinnamon. While the tree grows in China, etc., it can be cultivated successfully in sub-tropical countries, such as India and Ceylon, and it will thrive in Egypt, Formosa, Madagascar, Canary Islands and southern parts of Europe, California, Florida, and also in Argentina. It grows so slowly that the return financially is a long investment. Some growers think that Camphor cannot be taken from the trees till they are fifty years old. In Japan and Formosa the drug comes from the root, trunk and branches of the tree by sublimation, but there is less injury done to the tree in the American plantations, as it is taken there from the leaves and twigs of the oldest trees. A Camphor oil exudes in the process of extracting Camphor, which is valued by the Chinese, used for medicinal purposes. Two substances are found in commerce under the name of oil of Camphor: one is the produce of C. cinnamonum, and is known as Formosa or Japanese oil of Camphor; the other as East Indian oil of Camphor, from the D. aromatica but this oil is not found in European or American trade. It is less volatile than the other, and has a distinctive odour; it is highly prized by the Chinese, who use it for embalming purposes and to scent soap. The Chinese attribute many virtues to it. It is mentioned by Marco Polo in the thirteenth century and Camoens in 1571, who called it the 'balsam of disease.' During the last few years large quantities have come into the American and European markets as Japanese oil; it varies in quality and colour from a thin watery oil to a thick black one. It is imported in tin cans and varies greatly in the amount of Camphor it contains, some cans having had all the solid principle extracted before importation. The odour is peculiar, like sassafras and distinctly camphoraceous; this oil is said to be used in Japan for burning, making varnish and for Chinese inks, as a diluent for artists' colours; it has a capacity for dissolving resins that oil of Turps has not. The properties in the oil are much the same as in Camphor, but it is more stimulant and very useful in complaints of stomach and bowels, in spasmodic cholera and flatulent colic. It is also used as a rubefacient and sedative liniment, and if diluted with Olive oil or soap is excellent for local rheumatism, sprains, bruises, and neuralgia dose, 2 or 3 minims. There is an erroneous idea that Camphor acts as a preventive to infectious diseases. It is very acrid and in large doses very poisonous, and should be used cautiously in certain heart cases. It is a well-known preventive of moths and other insects, such as worms in wood; natural history cabinets are often made of it, the wood of the tree being occasionally imported to make cabinets for entomologists. The Dryobalanops oil of Camphor is said to be found in trees too young to produce Camphor, and is said to be the first stage of the development of Camphor, as it is found in the cavities of the trunk, which later on become filled with Camphor. Its chief constituent is an oil called Borneene. The D. aromatica tree, found in Sumatra and Borneo, grows to an enormous height, often over 100 feet, and trunk 6 or 7 feet in diameter. The Camphor of the older trees exists in concrete masses, in longitudinal cavities, in the heart of the tree, 1 1/2 feet long at certain distances apart. The only way of finding out if Camphor has formed in the tree is by incision. This Camphor is chiefly used for funeral rites, and any that is exported is bought by the Chinese at a high price, as they use it for embalming, it being less volatile than ordinary Camphor. Another Camphor called N'gai, obtained from the Blumea Balcamferi (Compositae), differs chemically from the Borneo species, being levogyrate, and is converted by boiling nitric acid, to a substance considered identical with stearoptene of Chrysanthemum parthenium. This plant grows freely in the author's garden, and is known in Great Britain as Double-flowered Bush Fever-Few. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Camphor has a strong, penetrating, fragrant odour, a bitter, pungent taste, and is slightly cold to the touch like menthol leaves; locally it is an irritant, numbs the peripheral sensory nerves, and is slightly antiseptic; it is not readily absorbed by the mucous membrane, but is easily absorbed by the subcutaneous tissue- it combines in the body with glucuronic acid, and in this condition is voided by the urine. Experiments on frogs show a depressant action to the spinal column, no motor disturbance, but a slow increasing paralysis; in mankind it causes convulsions, from the effect it has on the motor tract of the brain; it stimulates the intellectual centres and prevents narcotic drugs taking effect, but in cases of nervous excitement it has a soothing and quieting result. Authorities vary as to its effect on blood pressure; some think it raises it, others take an opposite view; but it has been proved valuable as an excitant in cases of heart failure, whether due to diseases or as a result of infectious fevers, such as typhoid and pneumonia, not only in the latter case as a stimulant to circulation, but as preventing the growth of pneumococci. Camphor is used in medicine internally for its calming influence in hysteria, nervousness and neuralgia, and for serious diarrhoea, and externally as a counter-irritant in rheumatisms, sprains bronchitis, and in inflammatory conditions, and sometimes in conjunction with menthol and phenol for heart failure; it is often given hypodermically, 3 to 5 grains dissolved in 20 to 30 minims of sterile Olive oil - the effect will last about two hours. In nervous diseases it may be given in substance or in capsules or in spirit; dose 2 to 5 grains. Its great value is in colds, chills, and in all inflammatory complaints; it relieves irritation of the sexual organs. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparations and Dosages---Spirit of Camphor, B.P., 5 to 20 drops. Tincture of Camphor Comp., B.P. (Paregoric), 1/2 to 1 drachm. Camphor water, B.P., 1 to 2 OZ. Liniment of Aconite, B.P. Liniment of Belladonna, B.P. Liniment of Camphor Comp., B.P. Liniment of Opium, B.P. Liniment of Soap, B.P. Liniment of Mustard, B.P. Liniment of Turpentine, B.P. Liniment of Turpentine and Acetic Acid, B.P. Spirit of Camphor, B.P., 5 to 20 drops. Tincture of Camphor Comp., B.P. </div> <bR> <div> Campion</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Corncockle</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Canadian Hemp</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Hemp, Canadian</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Canchalagua</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Centaury, Chilian</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Candytuft, Bitter</div> <div> Botanical: Iberis amara </div> <div> Family: N.O. Cruciferae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Parts Used---Leaves, stem, root, seeds. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Found in various parts of Europe and in English and Scotch cornfields, specially in limestone districts. </div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="des_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---This plant is an erect, rather stiff, very bitter annual, 6 to 12 inches high; flowers milky white, forming a terminal flat corymb; leaves oblong, lanceolate, acute, toothed; pod nearly orbicular, the long style projecting from notch at top; it flowers with the corns. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---A tincture made from the ripe seeds is much used in homoeopathy, but the plant is more generally used by American herbalists. All parts of the plant are used, leaves, stem, root and seeds, more particularly the latter. It has always been used for gout, rheumatism and kindred ailments, and is now usually combined with other plants for the same diseases in their acute form, and as a simple to allay excited action of the heart, especially when it is enlarged. For asthma, bronchitis and dropsy it is considered very useful. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Dosage---1 to 3 grains of the powdered seeds. In overdoses or too large ones it is said to produce giddiness, nausea and diarrhoea. </div> <bR> <div> Canella</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >(White) Cinnamon</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Capsicum</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Cayenne</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Caraway</div> <div> Botanical: Carum Carvi (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Descripton<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Habitat<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonym---Caraway Seed. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Fruit. </div> <div> ---Habitat---The plant is distributed throughout the northern and central parts of Europe and Asia, though where it occurs in this country it is only considered a naturalized species, having apparently escaped from cultivation. </div> <div> Caraway is another member of the group of aromatic, umbelliferous plants characterized by carminative properties, like Anise, Cumin, Dill and Fennel. It is grown, however, less for the medicinal properties of the fruits, or so-called 'seeds,' than for their use as a flavouring in cookery, confectionery and liqueurs .</div> <div>  <A NAME="des_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---It is a biennial, with smooth, furrowed stems growing 1 1/2 to 2 feet high, hearing finely cut leaves, and umbels of white flowers which blossom in June. The fruitswhich are popularly and incorrectly called seeds - and which correspond in general character to those of the other plants of this large family, are laterally compressed, somewhat horny and translucent, slightly curved, and marked with five distinct, pale ridges. They evolve a pleasant, aromatic odour when bruised, and have an agreeable taste. </div> <div> The leaves possess similar properties and afford an oil identical with that of the fruit. The tender leaves in spring have been boiled in soup, to give it an aromatic flavour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---History---The roots are thick and tapering, like a parsnip, though much smaller and are edible. Parkinson declared them, when young, to be superior in flavour to Parsnips. Mixed with milk and made into bread, they are said to have formed the 'Chara' of Julius Ceasar, eaten by the soldiers of Valerius. </div> <div> Caraway was well known in classic days, and it is believed that its use originated with the ancient Arabs, who called the 'seeds' Karawya, a name they still bear in the East, and clearly the origin of our word Caraway and the Latin name Carvi, although Pliny would have us believe that the name Carvi was derived from Caria, in Asia Minor, where according to him the plant was originally found. In old Spanish the name occurs as Alcaravea. </div> <div> Caraway is frequently mentioned by the old writers. Dioscorides advised the oil to be taken by pale-faced girls. In the Middle Ages and in Shakespeare's times it was very popular. </div> <div> 'The seed,' says Parkinson, 'is much used to be put among baked fruit, or into bread, cakes, etc., to give them a rellish. It is also made into comfites and taken for cold or wind in the body, which also are served to the table with fruit.' </div> <div> In Henry IV, Squire Shallow invites Falstaff to 'a pippin and a dish of caraways.' The custom of serving roast apples with a little saucerful of Caraway is still kept up at Trinity College, Cambridge, and at some of the old-fashioned London Livery Dinners, just as in Shakespeare's days - and in Scotland to this day a saucerful is put down at tea to dip the buttered side of bread into and called 'salt water jelly.' </div> <div> The scattering of the seed over cakes has long been practised, and Caraway-seed cake was formerly a standing institution at the feasts given by farmers to their labourers at the end of the wheat-sowing. The little Caraway comfits consist of the seeds encrusted with white sugar. In Germany, the peasants flavour their cheese, cabbage, soups, and household bread with Caraway, and in Norway and Sweden, polenta-like, black, Caraway bread is largely eaten in country districts. </div> <div> The oil extracted from the fruits is used as an ingredient of alcoholic liquors: both the Russians and the Germans make from Caraway a liqueur, 'Kummel,' and Caraway enters into the composition of l'huile de Venus<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > and other cordials. </FONT></div> <div> A curious superstition was held in olden times about the Caraway. It was deemed to confer the gift of retention, preventing the theft of any object which contained it, and holding the thief in custody within the invaded house. In like manner it was thought to keep lovers from proving fickle (forming an ingredient of love potions), and also to prevent fowls and pigeons from straying. It is an undoubted fact that tame pigeons, who are particularly fond of the seeds, will never stray if they are given a piece of baked Caraway dough in their cote. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Preparation for Market---Caraway does best when the seeds are sown inthe autumn, as soon as ripe, though they may be sown in March. Sow in drills, 1 foot apart, the plants when strong enough, being thinned out to about 8 inches in the rows. The ground will require an occasional hoeing to keep it clean and assist the growth of the plants. From an autumn-sown crop, seeds will be produced in the following summer, ripening about August. </div> <div> When the fruit ripens, the plant is cut and the Caraways are separated by threshing. They can be dried either on trays in the sun, or by very gentle heat over a stove, shaking occasionally. </div> <div> There are several varieties, the English, the Dutch and the German (obtained from plants extensively cultivated in Moravia and Prussia), and other varieties imported from Norway, Finland, Russia and the Morocco ports. </div> <div>  <A NAME="hab"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Habitat---</B>One marked peculiarity about Caraway is that it is indigenous to all parts of Europe, Siberia, Turkey in Asia, Persia, India and North Africa, and yet it is cultivated only in a few comparatively restricted areas. It grows wild in many parts of Canada and the United States, but is nowhere grown there as a field or garden crop. Its cultivation is restricted to relatively small areas in England, Holland, Germany, Finland, Russia, Norway and Morocco, where it constitutes one of the chief agricultural industries within its narrow confines. It has so far received comparatively little attention in England, where it is grown only in Essex, Kent and Suffolk, upon old grassland broken up for the purpose. Holland cultivates the main crop, producing and exporting far larger quantities than any other country. It is cultivated most extensively there in the provinces of Groningen and North Holland, in which more than half the acreage is found. In the whole country about 20,000 acres are devoted to this crop, each acre yielding about 1,000 lb., whereas while Caraway is grown commercially throughout Germany, Austria, France and parts of Spain, the character and amounts produced are very variable, and the yield per acre varies only from 400 to 700 lb., and these countries do not produce much more than they require for home consumption. Morocco produces a grade of Caraway that comes regularly into the English and American markets, but is somewhat inferior in quality. Dutch Caraway is preferred among consumers in the United States, and the bulk used there comes from Holland. </div> <div> During the last year or two there has been a scarcity of Caraway, owing partly to the fact that the extensive area of land in Holland usually employed for the cultivation of the plant was devastated by floods towards the close of 1915. Much Dill seed is now being sold in its place. Quite lately, a small grower reported that she had netted L. 5 (pounds sterling) from growing Caraway on a corner of what otherwise would have been waste ground. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The seeds contain from 4 to 7 per cent of volatile oil, according to the variety of Caraway fruit from which obtained that distilled from home-grown fruits being considered the best. Caraway grown in more northerly latitudes is richer in essential oil than that grown in southern regions, and if grown in full sun a greater percentage and a richer oil is obtained. </div> <div> The oil is distilled chiefly from Dutch, Norwegian and Russian fruits. The Dutch are small and dark brown in colour. English fruits, of which only a small quantity is produced, are of a brighter tint. </div> <div> The chief constituent of the oil is a hydrocarbon termed Carvene, also found in oils of Dill and Cumin, and an oxygenated oil Carvol, a mobile liquid (isomeric with the menthol of Spearmint). </div> <div> From 6 lb. of the unbruised seeds, 4 oz. of the pure essential oil can be expressed. </div> <div> The exhausted seed, after the distillation of the oil, contains a high percentage of protein and fat, and is used as a cattle food. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Both fruit and oil possess aromatic, stimulant and carminative properties. Caraway was widely employed at one time as a carminative cordial, and was recommended in dyspepsia and symptoms attending hysteria and other disorders. It possesses some tonic property and forms a pleasant stomachic. Its former extensive employment in medicine has much decreased in recent years, and the oil and fruit are now principally employed as adjuncts to other medicines as corrective or flavouring agents, combined with purgatives. For flatulent indigestion, however, from 1 to 4 drops of the essential oil of Caraway given on a lump of sugar, or in a teaspoonful of water, will be found efficacious. Distilled Caraway water is considered a useful remedy in the flatulent colic of infants, and is an excellent vehicle for children's medicine. When sweetened, its flavour is agreeable. </div> <div> One ounce of the bruised seeds infused for 6 hours in a pint of cold water makes a good Caraway julep for infants, from 1 to 3 teaspoonsful being given for a dose. </div> <div> The bruised seeds, pounded with the crumb of a hot new loaf and a little spirit to moisten, was an old-fashioned remedy for bad earache. The powder of the seeds, made into a poultice, will also take away bruises. </div> <bR> <div> Cardamons</div> <div> Botanical: Elettaria Cardamomum (MATON) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Zingiberaceae (Scitamineae)</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Adulterations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Amomum Cardamomum. Alpinia Cardamomum. Matonia Cardamomum. Cardamomum minus. Amomum repens. Cardamomi Semina. Cardamom Seeds. Malabar Cardamums. Ebil. Kakelah seghar. Capalaga. Gujatatti elachi. Ilachi. Ailum. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The dried, ripe seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Southern India.</div> <div>  <A NAME="des_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The large perennial herb. yielding Cardamom seeds is known in its own country as 'Elattari' or 'Ilachi,' while 'Cardamomum' was the name by which some Indian spice was known in classical times. </div> <div> It has a large, fleshy rhizome, and the alternate, lanceolate leaves are blades from 1 to 2 1/2 feet long, smooth and dark green above, pale, glaucous green and finely silky beneath. The flowering stems spread horizontally near the ground, from a few inches to 2 feet long, and bear small, loose racemes, the small flowers being usually yellowish, with a violet lip. The fruits are from 2/5 to 4/5 of an inch long, ovoid or oblong, bluntly triangular in section, shortly beaked at the apex, pale yellowish grey in colour, plump, and nearly smooth. They are three-celled, and contain in each cell two rows of small seeds of a dark, reddish-brown colour. These should be kept in their pericarps and only separated when required for use. Though only the seeds are official, the retention of the pericarp is an obstacle to adulteration, while it contains some oil and forms a good surface for grinding the seeds. The value is estimated by the plumpness and heaviness of the fruits and the soundness and ripeness of the seeds. Unripe seeds are paler and less plump. The unbroken fruits are gathered before they are quite ripe, as the seeds of fruits which have partially opened are less aromatic, and such fruits are less valued. The seeds have a powerful, aromatic odour, and an agreeable, pungent, aromatic taste, but the pericarps are odourless and tasteless. </div> <div> There is some confusion as to the different kinds, both botanically and commercially, different writers distinguishing them in varied ways. </div> <div> The official Cardamums in the United States are stated to be <I>only</I> those produced in India, chiefly in Malabar and Mysore, but in Britain the seeds corresponding most closely to the official description are recognized, in spite of their names, as being imported from Ceylon. </div> <div> The Cardamom is a native of Southern India, and grows abundantly in forests 2,500 to 5,000 feet above sea-level in North Canara Coorgi and Wynaad, where it is also largely cultivated. It flowers in April and May and the fruit-gathering lasts in dry weather for three months, starting in October. The methods of cultivating and preparing vary in different districts. </div> <div> In the Bombay Presidency the fruits are washed by women with water from special wells and pounded soap nut (a kind of acacia). They are dried on house-roofs, the stalks clipped, and sometimes a starchy paste is sprinkled over them, in addition to the bleaching. </div> <div> Bombay ships about 250,000 lb. annually to the London market. They were formerly known by their shapes as <I>shorts, short-longs</I>, and <I>long-longs</I>, but the last are now rarely seen. One hundred parts of the fruit yield on an average 74 parts of seeds and 26 of pericarp. The powdered seeds may be distinguished from the powdered fruit by the absence of the tissues of the pericarp. </div> <div> The seeds are about 1/5 of an inch long, angular, wrinkled, and whitish inside. They should be powdered only when wanted for use, as they lose their aromatic properties. </div> <div> In Great Britain and the United States Cardamums are employed to a small extent as an ingredient of curry powder, and in Russia, Sweden, Norway, and parts of Germany are largely used for flavouring cakes and in the preparation of liqueurs, etc. In Egypt they are ground and put in coffee, and in the East Indies are used both as a condiment and for chewing with betel. Their use was known to the ancients. (There are constant references to Cardamom Seeds in The Arabian Nights.) In France and America the oil is used in perfumery. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The seeds contain volatile oil, fixed oil, salt of potassium, a colouring principle, starch, nitrogenous mucilage, ligneous fibre, an acrid resin, and ash. The volatile oil contains terpenes, terpineol and cineol. Good 'shorts' yield about 4-6 per cent. It is colourless when fresh, but becomes thicker, more yellow, and less aromatic. It is very soluble in alcohol and readily soluble in four volumes of 70 per cent. alcohol, forming a clear solution. </div> <div> Its specific gravity is 0.924 to 0.927 at 25 degrees C. (77 degrees F.). It is not used medicinally, but solely for pharmaceutical purposes, being employed as a flavouring in the compound spirit and compound elixir of Cardamums, and in other elixirs and mixtures. It is largely adulterated, owing to the high price of the seeds and the small percentage of volatile oil found in them. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Carminative, stimulant, aromatic, but rarely used alone; chiefly useful as an adjuvant or corrective. </div> <div> The seeds are helpful in indigestion and flatulence, giving a grateful but not fiery warmth. When chewed singly in the mouth the flavour is not unpleasant, and they are said to be good for colic and disorders of the head. </div> <div> In flavouring they are combined with oils of Orange, Cinnamon, Cloves, and Caraway. </div> <div> The substitution of glycerine for honey in the 1880 United States' formula for compound tincture increased its stability. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>15 to 30 grains of the powdered seeds. Of tincture, 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Of compound tincture, B.P., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Fluid extract, 5 to 30 drops. </div> <div>  <A NAME="adu_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Adulterations---</B>Various unofficial Cardamums are included, the product of otherspecies. Orange seeds and unroasted grains of coffee are also admixed. The oil is said to be no longer distilled from <I>Eiettaria cardamomum</I>. It is often factitious, and composed of oils of Cajuput, Nutmeg, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> MADRAS CARDAMUMS, exported from Madras and Pondicherry. </div> <div> ALEPPY CARDAMUMS, exported from Aleppy and Calicut, are also recognized in Britain, the former being paler and 'short-longs' and the latter 'shorts.' </div> <div> CEYLON WILD CARDAMOMS are the fruits of <I>E. cardamomum</I> var. <I>major</I>, imported from Ceylon, and sometimes called Long Wild Natives. They are cultivated in Kandy, and sometimes called in the East, Grains of Paradise, but they are not the product known by that name in Europe and America. </div> <div> ROUND or SIAM CARDAMUMS are probably those referred to by Dioscorides, and called <I>Amomi uva</I> by Pliny. They are the fruits of <I>A. cardamomum</I> and <I>A. globosum</I>, growing in Java, Siam, and China, etc., and are nearly the size of a cherry. In their natural clusters they are the <I>amomum racemosum</I> or <I>amome en grappe</I> of the French, and in Southern Europe are sometimes used in the same way as the official kinds. </div> <div> BENGAL CARDAMOMS, from <I>A. subulatum</I>, are sometimes called Winged Bengal Cardamums, Morung elachi, or Buro elachi. They are oblong or oval, and about an inch long. </div> <div> NEPAL CARDAMUMS, of unknown origin, are like the Bengal species, but usually stalked, and have a long, tubular calyx. </div> <div> WINGED JAVA CARDAMOMS, from <I>A. maximum</I>, growing in the Malay islands, are about an inch long, and when soaked in water show from 4 to 13 ragged wings on each side. They are feebly aromatic, and are usually sent abroad from the London markets. </div> <div> KORARIMA CARDAMOMS, from <I>A. kararima</I>, have recently become known. </div> <div> MADAGASCAR CARDAMUMS, of <I>A. angustifolium</I>, have pointed, ovate flattened capsules. The flavour of the seeds resembles the official variety. </div> <div> BASTARD CARDAMUMS, from <I>A. Xanthioides</I> looks like the real kind, but is greenish in colour, and tastes like crude camphor. </div> <div> <I>Cardamomum Siberiense</I> (Star Aniseed), Annis de Siberie of the seventeenth century and badiane of the French, is from <I>Illicium verum</I>, the fruit of which is chiefly used in preparing a volatile oil resembling the official oil of Anise. </div> <bR> <div> Cardoons</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Artichoke, Cardoon</U></FONT> </div> <bR> <div> Caroba</div> <div> Botanical: Jacaranda procera (SPRENG.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Bignoniacea</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Carob Tree. Carobinha. Bignonia Caroba. Jacaranda Caroba. Caaroba. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>South America.</div> <div>  <A NAME="des_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The genus <I>Jacaranda</I> includes several species which are used medicinally in South America, and especially in Brazil. The trees are small, and the leaves thick, tough, and lanceolate, about 2 1/2 inches long, odourless, and slightly bitter in taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>There has been found in the leaves Caroba balsam, caroborelinic acid carobic acid, steocarobic acid, carobon, and crystalline substance, carobin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Actions and Uses---</B>The value of the <I>Jacaranda</I> active principles has been proved in syphilis and venereal diseases, being widely used by the aborigines of Brazil and other South American countries. The leaves have also been tried in epilepsy for their soothing influence. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>From 15 to 60 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> CAROB-TREE, or <I>Ceratonia siliqua</I>, is a small tree of the Mediterranean coasts. (One species of Jacarande tree grows in Palermo, and the exquisite blue flowers when in bloom about the middle of June are an arresting sight, much more suggestive of 'Love in the Mist' than the plant which actually bears that name. - EDITOR.) Beyond its name it has no connexion with Caroba. It furnishes the St. John's Bread which probably corresponds to the husks of the Prodigal Son parable, and the seed which is said to have been the original jewellers' carat weight. </div> <div> The Spaniards call it Algaroba, and the Arabs Kharoub, hence Carob or Caroub Pods, Beans, or Sugar-pods. It is also called Locust Pods. These pods are much used in the south of Europe for feeding domestic animals and, in times of scarcity, as human food. Being saccharine, they are more heatgiving than nourishing. The seeds or beans were used as fodder for British cavalry horses during the Spanish campaign of 1811-12. </div> <div> South American varieties are <I>Prosopis dulcis</I> and <I>P. siliquastrum</I> of the Leguminosae family. </div> <bR> <div> Carrot</div> <div> Botanical: Daucus carota (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Parts Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chemical Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal and General Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Recipes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Philtron (Old Greek). Bird's Neat. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Whole herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>A native wild plant common everywhere in the British Islands. </div> <div> Both the Carrot and Parsnip are striking examples of the effect of cultivation on wild plants. The roots of the wild variety are small and woody, while those of the cultivated kind are fleshy and succulent and grow to a considerable size.</div> <div>  <A NAME="his_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>The Carrot was well known to the ancients, and is mentioned by Greek and Latin writers under various names, being, however, not always distinguished from the Parsnip and Skirret, closely allied to it. The Greeks - Professor Henslow tells us - had three words: <I>Sisaron</I>, first occurring in the writings of Epicharmus, a comic poet (500 B.C.); <I>Staphylinos</I>, used by Hippocrates (430 B.C.) and <I>Elaphoboscum</I>, used by Dioscorides (first century A.D.), whose description of the plant applies accurately to the modern Carrot. Pliny says: </div> <div> 'There is one kind of wild <I>pastinaca</I> which grows spontaneously; by the Greeks it is known as <I>staphylinos</I>. Another kind is grown either from the root transplanted or else from seed, the ground being dug to a very considerable depth for the purpose. It begins to be fit for eating at the end of the year, but it is still better at the end of two; even then, however, it preserves its strong pungent flavour, which it is found impossible to get rid of.' </div> <div> In speaking of the medical virtue of the first species (which is evidently the Carrot, the second variety presumably the Parsnip), he adds, 'the cultivated has the same as the wild kind, though the latter is more powerful, especially when growing in stony places.' </div> <div> The name <I>Carota</I> for the garden Carrot is found first in the writings of Athenaeus (A.D. 200), and in a book on cookery by Apicius Czclius (A.D. 230). It was Galen (second century A.D.) who added the name <I>Daucus</I> to distinguish the Carrot from the Parsnip, calling it <I>D. pastinaca</I>, and <I>Daucus</I> came to be the official name in the sixteenth century, and was adopted by Linnaeus in the eighteenth century. </div> <div> From the time of Dioscorides and Pliny to the present day, the Carrot has been in constant use by all nations. It was long cultivated on the Continent before it became known in this country, where it was first generally cultivated in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, being introduced by the Flemings, who took refuge here from the persecutions of Philip II of Spain, and who, finding the soil about Sandwich peculiarly favourable for it, grew it there largely. As vegetables were at that time rather scarce in England, the Carrot was warmly welcomed and became a general favourite, its cultivation spreading over the country. It is mentioned appreciatively by Shakespeare in <I>The Merry Wives of Windsor</I>. In the reign of James I, it became the fashion for ladies to use its feathery leaves in their head-dresses. A very charming, fern-like decoration may be obtained if the thick end of a large carrot be cut off and placed in a saucer of water in a warm place, when the young and delicate leaves soon begin to sprout and form a pretty tuft of verdant green, well worth the slight trouble entailed. </div> <div> Its root is small and spindle-shaped whitish, slender and hard, with a strong aromatic smell and an acrid, disagreeable taste, very different to the reddish, thick, fleshy, cultivated form, with its pleasant odour and peculiar, sweet, mucilaginous flavour. It penetrates some distance into the ground, having only a few lateral rootlets. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The stems are erect and branched, generally about 2, feet high, tough and furrowed. Both stems and leaves are more or less clothed with stout, coarse hairs. The leaves are very finely divided, the lowest leaves considerably larger than the upper; their arrangement on the stem is alternate, and all the leaves embrace the stem with the sheathing base, which is so characteristic of this group of plants, the Umbelliferae, to which the Carrot belongs. The blossoms are densely clustered together in terminal umbels, or flattened heads, in which the flower-bearing stalks of the head all arise from one point in rays, like the ribs of an umbrella, each ray again dividing in the case of the Carrot, to form a secondary umbel, or umbellule of white flowers, the outer ones of which are irregular and larger than the others. The wild Carrot is in bloom from June to August, but often continues flowering much longer. The flowers themselves are very small, but from their whiteness and number, they form a conspicuous head, nearly flat while in bloom, or slightly convex, but as the seeds ripen, the umbels contract, the outer rays, which are to begin with 1 to 2 inches long, lengthening and curving inwards, so that the head forms a hollow cup hence one of the old popular names for the plant: Bird's Nest. The fruit is slightly flattened, with numerous bristles arranged in five rows. The ring of finely-divided and leaf-like bracts at the point where the umbel springs is a noticeable feature. </div> <div> The Carrot is well distinguished from other plants of the same order by having the central flower of the umbel, or sometimes a tiny umbellule, of a bright red or deep purple colour, though there is a variety, <I>D. maritimus</I>, frequent on many parts of the sea coast in the south of England, which differs in having somewhat fleshy leaves and in being destitute of the central purple flower. In this case, all the flowers of the head have often a somewhat pinkish tinge. There was a curious superstition that this small purple flower of the Carrot was of benefit in epilepsy. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Parts Used Medicinally---</B>The whole herb, collected in July; the seeds and root. The whole herb is the part now more generally in use. </div> <div>  <A NAME="meda"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic, Stimulant, Deobstruent. An infusion of the whole herb is considered an active and valuable remedy in the treatment of dropsy, chronic kidney diseases and affections of the bladder. The infusion of tea, made from one ounce of the herb in a pint of boiling water, is taken in wineglassful doses. Carrot tea, taken night and morning, and brewed in this manner from the whole plant, is considered excellent for lithic acid or gouty disposition. A strong decoction is very useful in gravel and stone, and is good against flatulence. A fluid extract is also prepared, the dose being from 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div> The <I>seeds</I> are carminative, stimulant and very useful in flatulence, windy colic, hiccough, dysentery, chronic coughs, etc. The dose of the seeds, bruised, is from one-third to one teaspoonful, repeated as necessary. They were at one time considered a valuable remedy for calculus complaints. They are excellent in obstructions of the viscera, in jaundice (for which they were formerly considered a specific), and in the beginnings of dropsies, and are also of service as an emmenagogue. They have a slight aromatic smell and a warm, pungent taste. They communicate an agreeable flavour to malt liquor, if infused in it while in the vat, and render it a useful drink in scorbutic disorders. </div> <div> Old writers tell us that a poultice made of the <I>roots</I> has been found to mitigate the pain of cancerous ulcers, and that the <I>leaves</I>, applied with honey, cleanse running sores and ulcers. An infusion of the root was also used as an aperient. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>The root of the Carrot consists of Bark and Wood: the bark of theGarden Carrot is the outer red layer, dark and pulpy and sweet to the taste; the wood forms the yellow core, gradually becoming hard, stringy and fibrous. The aim of cultivation, therefore, is to obtain a fleshy root, with the smallest part of wood. This depends on soil and the quality and kind of the seed. </div> <div> For its successful cultivation, Carrot needs a light, warm soil, which has been well manured in the previous season. The most suitable soil is a light one inclining to sand, a somewhat sandy loam or dry, peaty land being the best, but even heavy ground, properly prepared, may be made to produce good Carrots. Formerly the cultivation of the Carrot was almost entirely confined to the light lands of Norfolk and Suffolk. </div> <div> The ground should be well prepared some months in advance; heavy ground should be lightened by the addition of wood ash, road scrapings, old potting soil and similar materials. It is essential that the soil be in such a state as to allow the roots to penetrate to their full length without interruption. Previous to sowing the seed, the soil should be lightly forked over, and, if possible, be given a dressing of leaf soil or well decayed vegetable matter, but no fresh manure must be dug into the top spit of ground intended for Carrots and Parsnips, as it may cause the roots to become forked. The crops will, however, benefit by about an ounce of superphosphate to the square yard, raked in before sowing, or by a light dressing of soot. </div> <div> Sowing of the main crop should be done in calm weather about the middle of March or early in April. The seeds frequently adhere to one another by means of the forked hairs which surround them. These hairs can be removed by rubbing through the hands or a fine chaff sieve. The seeds should then be mixed with about twice the bulk of dry earth, sand or sifted ashes (about one bushel of seeds to 4 or 5 lb. of sand). When the ground is thoroughly prepared and has been firmly trodden, draw flat-bottomed drills from north to south, 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches wide. Distribute the seed along the row evenly and thinly and cover lightly. Carrots can hardly be covered too lightly, 1 inch of fine soil is quite enough, and for ordinary use they may be sown in drills one foot apart, but if extra large roots are desired, more room must be given between the rows. As soon as the young plants are large enough to handle they may be thinned to 6 inches or 8 inches apart. The thinning may be at first to a distance of 3 inches, and then a final thinning later, the second thinnings being used as young Carrots for culinary purposes. Frequent dustings of soot will greatly benefit the crop. Light hoeings between the rows to keep the crop free from weeds is all that is necessary during the period of growth. Partial shade from other crops is often found beneficial. </div> <div> Scarlet Immediate is the best sort for general purposes. </div> <div> Main-crop Carrots are generally taken up about the last week in October, or early in November, by three-pronged forks, and stored in sand in a dry place, where they can be kept till the following March or April Some of the roots dug in the autumn can be replanted in February, about 2 feet apart, with the crown or head a few inches below the surface. Leaves and flowers will spring from them, and the seeds produced will ripen in the autumn. </div> <div> By making successional sowings, good crops of small roots will be always available. In gardens, Carrots are grown in succession of crops from the latter part of February to the beginning of August. For early Carrots sow on a warm border in February: such a sowing, if made as soon as the state of ground allows, will assure early Carrots just when fresh and quickly-grown vegetables are most highly prized. They will be off in time to leave the ground ready for other crops. </div> <div> After a good dressing of soot has been given, Carrots may be sown again, and even then it leaves the room vacant for winter greens or cabbage for use next spring. Sowing as late as July is generally successful in most districts. Main crops are often sown too early, especially on cold soils. Carrots are liable to attacks of grubs and insects, the upper part of the root being also attacked by the grub of a kind of fly, the best remedy being late sowing, to avoid the period at which these insects are evolved from the egg. Dusting with ashes and a little soot or lime wards off both birds and slugs from the young tender growths. </div> <div> Carrots are a valuable product for the farmer in feeding his cattle, and for this purpose are raised in large quantities. The produce of an acre of Carrots in Suffolk is on an average 350 bushels per acre, but sometimes much more. In the Channel Islands and Brittany, much larger crops of Carrots and Parsnips are obtained than are yielded in England, the soil being deeply trenched by a spade or specially-constructed plough. Far more Carrots are grown in France, Germany and Belgium for fodder than here. Horses are remarkably fond of Carrots, and when mixed with oats, Carrots form a very good food for them; with a small quantity of oats or other corn, a horse may be supported on from 20 to 30 lb. of Carrots daily. In Suffolk, Carrots were formerly given as a specific for preserving and restoring the wind of horses, but they are not considered good for cattle if fed too long on them. They may also with advantage be given both to pigs and poultry, and rabbits are especially fond of them. The kinds grown for farm purposes are generally larger than those in the kitchen garden and are known as Red Carrots, the more delicate Orange Carrot being the variety used in cooking. Some farmers sow the seeds on the top of the drills, which is said to be an improvement over the gardener, who makes his Carrot-bed on the flat in the ordinary way. This ridge system gives good results the Carrots being clean and well-shaped and free from grubs. The farmers reckon about 2 lb. of seed for an acre for drills, and 5 or 6 lb. if sown broadcast. For ordinary garden purposes, one ounce of seed is reckoned to be sufficient for about 600 feet sown in drills. </div> <div>  <A NAME="che"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Chemical Constituents---</B>The juice of the Carrot when expressed contains crystallizable and uncrystallizable sugar, a little starch, extractine gluten, albumen, volatile oil (on which the medicinal properties of the root depend and which is fragrant, aromatic and stimulating), vegetable jelly or pectin, saline matter, malic acid and a peculiar crystallizable, ruby-red neutral principle, without odour or taste, called Carotin. </div> <div> Carrots contain no less than 89 per cent of water; their most distinguishing dietical substance is sugar, of which they contain about 4.5 per cent. </div> <div> Owing to the large percentage of carbohydrate material contained by Carrots, rabbits fed for some days on Carrots alone, are found to have an increased amount of glycogen stored in the liver, carbohydrate being converted into glycogen in the body. </div> <div> Sir Humphry Davy ascertained the nutritive matter of Carrots to amount to 98 parts in 1,000, of which 95 are sugar, and three are starch. Weight for weight, they stand third in nourishing value on the list of roots and tubers, potatoes and parsnips taking first and second places. Carrots containing less water and more nourlshing material than green vegetables, have higher nutritive qualities than turnips, swedes, cabbage, sprouts, cauliflower, onions and leeks. Moreover, the fair proportion of sugar contained in their composition adds to their nourishing value. </div> <div> In the interesting collection of the Food Collection at Bethnal Green Museum, prepared by Dr. Lankester, we learn that the maximum amount of work produceable by a pound of Carrots is that it will enable a man to raise 64 tons one foot high, so that it would appear to be a very efficient forceproducer. From 1 lb. of Carrots we can obtain 1 OZ. and 11 grains of sugar, while out of the 16 oz. fourteen are water. When we consider that in an average man of 11 stone or 154 lb. weight, about 111 of these are water, we see what a large supply is needful to repair waste and wear and tear. </div> <div>  <A NAME="medg"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal and General Uses---</B>The chief virtues of the Carrot lie in the strong antiseptic qualities they possess, which prevent all putrescent changes within the body. </div> <div> Carrots were formerly of some medicinal repute as a laxative, vermifuge, poultice, etc., and the seeds have been employed as a substitute for caraways. </div> <div> At Vichy, where derangements of the liver are specially treated, Carrots in one form or the other are served at every meal whether in soup or as vegetables, and considerable efficacy of cure is attributed to them. </div> <div> In country districts, raw Carrots are still sometimes given to children for expelling worms, and the boiled roots, mashed to a pulp, are sometimes used as a cataplasm for application to ulcers and cancerous sores. </div> <div> Carrot sugar, got from the inspissated juice of the roots, may be used at table, and is good for the coughs of consumptive children. </div> <div> A good British wine may be brewed from the root of the Carrot, and a very tolerable bread prepared from the roots, dried and powdered. The pectic acid contained can be extracted from the root and solidifies into a wholesome, appetizing jelly. </div> <div> In Germany, a substitute and adulteration for coffee has been made of Carrots chopped into small pieces, partially carbonized by roasting and then ground. </div> <div> In France and Germany a spirit is distilled from the Carrot, which yields more spirit than the potato. The refuse after making the spirit is good for feeding pigs. </div> <div> Attempts have also been made to extract sugar from Carrots, but the resulting thick syrup refuses to crystallize, and in competition with either cane sugar or that obtained from the beetroot, it has not proved commercially successful. </div> <div> Carrots are also used in winter and spring in the dairy, to give colour and flavour to butter, and a dye similar to woad has been obtained from the leaves. </div> <div>  <A NAME="rec"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>RECIPES</div> <div>  <A NAME="recjam"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Carrot Jam---</B> </div> <div> Wash and grate some carrots; boil until reduced to a thick pulp. To 1 Ib. of this pulp add 9 oz. sugar, the juice and grated rind of 2 lemons, and 3 oz. margarine. Boil the mixture well for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The result is a useful and inexpensive jam, which can be made for 6<I>d</I>. to 8<I>d</I>. a lb. (according to the price of the lemons), if all materials have to be bought, and for considerably less by those who have home-grown carrots available. </div> <div>  <A NAME="recpre"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preserved Young Carrots---</B> </div> <div> Turn the carrots in their own shape, and as you do so, them turn into hot water; when all are ready, put them in a stewpan with water enough to cover them; add fresh butter in the proportion of an ounce to the pound of carrots, and salt to season; boil the carrots in this till half done, and then arrange them neatly in tin boxes; fill up with their own liquor, solder down, boil for hour, and put them away in the cool. </div> <bR> <div> Carrot, Wild</div> <div> Botanical: Daucus carota (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Habitat</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Birds' Nest and Bees' Nest. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Whole herb, seeds, root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Britain, near the sea in greatest abundance, and in waste places throughout Europe, Russian Asia, America, and is even found in India. </div> <div>  <A NAME="hab_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Habitat---</B>Probably originally a native of the sea-coasts of Southern Europe degenerated into its present wild state, but of very ancient cultivation. The name 'Carrot' is Celtic, and means 'red of colour,' and <I>Daucus</I> from the Greek <I>dais</I> to burn, signifying its pungent and stimulating qualities. </div> <div> The Carrot was in ancient times much valued for its medicinal properties; the Wild Carrot, which is found so plentifully in Britain, both in cultivated lands and by waysides, thriving more especially by the sea, is superior, medicinally, to the cultivated kind. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Its root is small and spindle shaped, whitish, slender and hard, witha strong aromatic smell and an acrid, disagreeable taste, very different to the reddish, thick, fleshy, cultivated form, with its pleasant odour and peculiar, sweet, mucilaginous flavour. It penetrates some distance into the ground, having only a few lateral rootlets. </div> <div> The stems are erect and branched, generally about 2 feet high, tough and furrowed. Both stems and leaves are more or less clothed with stout coarse hairs. The leaves are very finely divided, the lowest leaves considerably larger than the upper; their arrangement on the stem is alternate, and all the leaves embrace the stem with the sheathing base, which is so characteristic of this group of plants, the Umbelliferae, to which the Carrot belongs. The blossoms are densely clustered together in terminal umbels, or flattened heads, in which the flower-bearing stalks of the head all arise from one point in rays, like the ribs of an umbrella, each ray again dividing in the case of the Carrot, in like manner to form a secondary umbel, or umbellule of white flowers, the outer ones of which are irregular and larger than the others. The Wild Carrot is in bloom from June to August, but often continues flowering much longer. The flowers themselves are very small, but from their whiteness and number, they form a conspicuous head nearly flat while in bloom, or slightly convex, but as the seeds ripen, the umbels contract, the outer rays, which are to begin with 1 to 2 inches long, lengthening and curving inwards, so that the head forms a hollow cup hence one of the old popular names for the plant - Birds' Nest. The fruit is slightly flattened, with numerous bristles arranged in five rows. The ring of finely-divided and leaf-like bracts at the point where the umbel springs is a noticeable feature. </div> <div> The Carrot is well distinguished from other plants of the same order by having the central flower of the umbel, or sometimes a tiny umbellule, of a bright red or deep purple colour, though there is a variety, <I>Daucus maritimus</I>, frequent in many parts of the seacoast in the south of England, which differs in having somewhat fleshy leaves and no central purple flower. In this case, all the flowers of the head have usually a somewhat pinkish tinge. There was a curious superstition that this small purple flower of the Carrot was of benefit for mitigating epilepsy. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The medicinal properties of the seeds are owing to a volatile oil which is colourless or slightly tinged with yellow; this is procured by distilling with water. They also yield their virtues by infusion to water at 212 degrees F.; boiling dissipates them. No thorough analysis has been made. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic, stimulant deobstruent. An infusion of the whole herb is considered an active and valuable remedy in the treatment of dropsy, chronic kidney diseases and affections of the bladder. The infusion, made from 1 OZ. of the herb in a pint of boiling water, is taken in wineglassful doses. Carrot tea, taken night and morning, and brewed in this manner from the whole front, is considered excellent for a gouty disposition. A strong decoction is very useful in gravel and stone, and is good against flatulence. A fluid extract is also prepared, the dose being from 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div> The seeds are carminative, stimulant and very useful in flatulence, windy colic, hiccough, dysentery, chronic coughs, etc. The dose of the seeds, bruised, is from one-third to one teaspoonful, repeated as necessary. They were at one time considered a valuable remedy for calculus complaints. They are excellent in obstructions of the viscera, in jaundice (for which they were formerly considered a specific), and in the beginnings of dropsies, and are also of service as an emmenagogue. They have a slight aromatic smell and a warm, pungent taste. They communicate an agreeable flavour to malt liquor, if infused in it while working in the vat, and render it a useful drink in scorbutic disorders. </div> <div> Old writers tell us that a poultice made of the roots has been found to mitigate the pain of cancerous ulcers, and that the leaves, applied with honey, cleanse running sores and ulcers. An infusion of the root was also used as an aperient. </div> <bR> <div> Cascara, Amarga</div> <div> Botanical: Picramnia antidesma (S. W.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Simarubacaea</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Mountain Damson Bark. Simaruba Honduras Bark. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Bark, root-bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Jamaica and South Guiana. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A native of the West Indies and yields the drug known as Simaruba bark. The tree grows to a considerable height and thickness and has alternate spreading branches; the bark on the old trees is black and furrowed, on the younger trees smooth grey, in places spotted with big patches of yellow, the wood is hard, white and without any special taste; it has numerous leaves alternately on the branches, each leaf has several pinnae, nearly elliptical, upper side smooth deep green, under side whitish, short foot-stalks, flowers male and female on different trees, colour yellow in long panicles. The bark is rough scaly and poor; inside when fresh is a good yellow colour, but when dry paler; it has very little smell and taste and though very bitter is not disagreeable. Macerated in water or rectified spirits it gives a yellow tincture; makes a better and stronger infusion in cold water than in boiling water; the decoction is transparent yellow when hot, but when cooled, is turbid and brownish red in colour. The bark was brought from Guiana in 1713 as a remedy for dysentery. In France in 1718 to 1825 an epidemic flux was cured by the bark and this established its medicinal use in Europe. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A bitter tonic credited with specific alternative properties. It belongs to an undetermined species of picrammia and contains a bitter sweet amorphous alkaloid. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Purgative, tonic, diaphoretic. A very valuable bitter tonic, useful in diarrhoea, dysentery, and in some forms of indigestion; in large doses it is said to act as an emetic. It restores tone to the intestines, allays spasmodic motions, promotes a healthy secretion. Big doses cause vomiting and nausea - should not be used in dysentery attended with fever. In dysentery with weak indigestion it is often preferred to chamonilee. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>The infusion taken in wineglassful doses every four to six hours. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Simaruba versicolor</I>, a Brazilian species,has similar properties; the fruits and barks are also used as anthelmintics, and an infusion of the bark is used for snake-bite. The plant is so bitter that insects will not attack it - on which account the powdered bark has been used to kill vermin. </div> <div> <I>S. alauca</I>, a native of Cuba, gives a glutinous juice which has been found useful in some forms of skin disease. </div> <bR> <div> Cascara Sagrada</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Buckthorn, Californian</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cascarilla</div> <div> Botanical: Croton Eleuteria (J. BENN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Euphorbiaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Sweetwood Bark. Sweet Bark. Bahama Cascarilla. Elutheria. Clutia Eleuteria. Cascarillae Cortex. Cortex Thuris. Aromatic Quinquina. False Quinquina. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The dried bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>The Bahama Islands. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>The name <I>Croton</I> comes from a Greek word meaning 'a tick,' and <I>Eleuteria</I> from the name of one of the Bahama Islands, Eleuthera, near Providence Island. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_16"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>It is a small tree rarely reaching 20 feet in height, with scanty, alternate, ovate-lanceolate leaves, averaging 2 inches long, closely-scaled below, giving a metallic silver-bronze appearance, with scattered, white scales above. The flowers are small, with white petals, and very fragrant, appearing in March and April. The scented bark is fissured, and pale yellowish brown. It is imported from Nassau, in New Providence. </div> <div> The quills of dried bark average 2 inches in length, and 3/8 inch in thickness. They are often furrowed in both directions, so that they appear to be chequered. The outer, thin, corky layer is white, often covered with a fine lichen ( <I>Verrucaria albissima</I>). The second layer is brownish, and sometimes shows through. The bark is hard and compact, breaking with a short, resinous fracture. The taste is nauseating, warm and bitter, and the odour agreeable and aromatic, especially when burned, resembling weak musk, so that it is used in fumigating pastilles, and sometimes mixed with tobacco, though in the latter case some regard it as being liable to cause giddiness and symptoms of intoxication. </div> <div> The <I>leaves</I> can be infused for a digestive tea, and the bark yields a good, black dye. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>There have been found in the bark albumen, tannin, cascar illin (a bitter, crystallizable principle, soluble in alcohol, ether, and hot water), red colouring matter, fatty matter with a sickly odour, volatile oil, gum, wax, resin, starch, pectic acid potassium chloride, a salt of calcium, and lignin. </div> <div> The oil contains an alcohol, two sesquiterpenes, a free acid consisting of liquid cascarillic acid and a mixture of solid palmitic and stearic acids, eugenol, a terpene (differing from pinene), cymene, and possibly some l-limonene. Betaine has also been found. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>An aromatic, bitter tonic, with possibly narcotic properties. It is used in dyspepsia, intermittent and low fevers, diarrhoea and dysentery. It is a stimulant to mucous membranes, and in chronic bronchitis is used as an expectorant; while it is valuable in atonia dyspepsia, flatulence, chronic diarrhcea, nocturnal pollutions, debility and convalescence. Added to cinchona, it will arrest vomiting caused by that drug. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Of Cascarilla powdered Bark, 20 to 30 grains. Of Infusum Cascarillae (B.P. 1 OZ. to 1/2 pint), 1 to 2 fluid ounces. Of Tinctura Cascarillae, 1/2 to 2 fluid drachms. Of fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Tincture, B.P. 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> Cascarilla is also the name of <I>Quina morada</I>, the bark of <I>Pogonopus febrifugus</I>, used in the Argentine Republic as a substitute for cinchona bark. An alkaloid, Moradeine, and a blue fluorescent substance, Moradin, have been separated from it. </div> <div> <I>Croton Cascarilla</I>, the Wild Rosemary of the West Indies, was at first thought to be the source of the Cascarilla of commerce. </div> <div> <I>C. Pseudo-China</I>, or Copalchi Bark, of Mexico, also known as Copalche Bark or <I>C. niveus</I>, resembles <I>C. Eleuteria</I> so closely that it can be mistaken for it. It is used in the same way. A second variety, more bitter, may be a product of <I>C. suberosus</I>. </div> <div> It has also been mistaken for a variety of cinchona. </div> <div> <I>C. micans</I> is thought to have similar properties. </div> <div> White, red, and black Cascarillas are also found in commerce, differing in form and properties, but these are other names for varieties of quinquina. </div> <bR> <div> Cashew Nut</div> <div> Botanical: Anacardium occidentale (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Anacardiaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Cassavium pomiferum. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Nut. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Jamaica, West Indies, and other parts of tropical America. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_17"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A medium-sized tree, beautiful, and not unlike in appearance the walnut tree, with oval blunt alternate leaves and scented rose-coloured panicles of bloom - the tree produces a fleshy receptacle, commonly called an apple, at the end of which the kidney-shaped nut is borne; the end of it which is attached to the apple, is much bigger than the other. The outer shell is ashy colour, very smooth, the kernel is covered with an inner shell, and between the two shells is found a thick inflammable caustic oil, which will raise blisters on the skin and be dangerously painful if the nuts are cracked with the teeth. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Two peculiar principles have been found: Anacardic Acid and a yellow oleaginous liquid Cardol. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The oil must be used with great caution, but has been successfully applied to corns, warts, ringworms, cancerous ulcers and even elephantiasis, and has been used in beauty culture to remove the skin of the face in order to grow a new one. The nuts are eaten either fresh or roasted, and contain a milky juice which is used in puddings. The older nuts are roasted and salted and the dried and broken kernels are sometimes imported to mix with old Madeira as they greatly improve its flavour. In roasting great care must be taken not to let the fumes cover the face or hands etc., as they cause acute inflammation an external poisoning. Ground and mixed with cocoa the nuts make a good chocolate. The fruit is a reddy yellow and has a pleasant sub-acid stringent taste, the expressed juice of the fruit makes a good wine, and if distilled, a spirit much better than arrack or rum. The fruit itself is edible, and its juice has been found of service in uterine complaints and dropsy. It is a powerful diuretic. The black juice of the nut and the milky juice from the tree after incision are made into an indelible marking-ink- the stems of the flowers also give a milky juice which when dried is hard and black and is used as a varnish. A gum is also found in the plant having the same qualities as gumarabic; it is imported from South America under the name of Cadjii gum, and used by South American bookbinders, who wash their books with it to keep away moths and ants. The caustic oil found in the layers of the fruit is sometimes rubbed into the floors of houses in India to keep white ants away. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> The Oriental <I>Anacardium</I> or Cashew Nut (<I>Semecarpus anacardium</I>), a native of India, has similar qualities to the West Indian Cashew, and is said to contain an alkaloid called Chuchunine. </div> <div> <I>Ammonium anarcadate</I>. This is the Ammonium compound of beta and delta resinous acids of <I>A. occidentale</I> (Cashew Nut), and is used as a hair-dye, but cannot be used with acids, acid salts, or acetate of lead. </div> <bR> <div> Cassava</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Mandioca</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cassia (Cinnamon)</div> <div> Botanical: Cinnamomum cassia (BLUME) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Lauraceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Poisons and Antidotes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species, Sustitutes and Adulterations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Bastard Cinnamon. Chinese Cinnamon. Cassia lignea. Cassia Bark. Cassia aromaticum. Canton Cassia. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The dried bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Indigenous to China. Cochin-China and Annam. Also cultivated in Sumatra, Ceylon, Japan, Java, Mexico and South America.</div> <div>  <A NAME="des_18"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>As its name of Bastard Cinnamon implies, the product of this tree is usually regarded as a substitute for that of the <I>Cinnarmomum zeylanicum</I> of Ceylon, which it closely resembles. The cultivated trees are kept as coppices, and numerous shoots, which are not allowed to rise higher than 10 feet, spring from the roots. Their appearance when the flame-coloured leaves and delicate blossoms first appear is very beautiful. The fruit is about the size of a small olive. The leaves are evergreen, ovaloblong blades from 5 to 9 inches long. The trees are at their greatest perfection at the age of ten to twelve years, but they continue to spread and send up new shoots. The bark may be easily distinguished from that of cinnamon, as it is thicker, coarser, darker, and duller, the flavour being more pungent, less sweet and delicate, and slightly bitter. The stronger flavour causes it to be preferred to cinnamon by German and Roman chocolate makers. The fracture is short, and the quills are single, while pieces of the corky layer are often left adhering. The best and most pungent bark is cut from the young shoots when the leaves are red, or from trees which grow in rocky situations. The bark should separate easily from the wood, and be covered inside with a mucilaginous juice though the flavour of the spice is spoiled if this is not carefully removed. The wood without the bark is odourless and is used as fuel. When clean, the bark is a little thicker than parchment, and curls up while drying in the sun. It is imported in bundles of about 12 inches long, tied together with strips of bamboo and weighing about a pound. It is the kind almost universally kept in American shops. </div> <div> The dried, unripe fruits, or <I>Chinese Cassia Buds</I>, have the odour and taste of the bark, and are rather like small cloves in appearance. They have been known in Europe as a spice since the Middle Ages, being then probably used in preparing a spiced wine called Hippocras. Now they are employed in confectionery and in making Pot-Pourri. The importation of the buds into the U.S.A. in 1916 was 197,156 lb., and of Cassia and Cassia leaves 7,487,156 lb. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Cassia bark yields from 1 to 2 per cent of volatile oil, somewhat resembling that of cinnamon. It should be kept from the light in well-stoppered, ambercoloured bottles. It is cheaper and more abundant than the Ceylon variety, and is the only official oil of Cinnamon in the United States Pharmacopoeia and German Pharmacopoeia. It is imported from Canton and Singapore. Its value depends on the percentage of cinnamic aldehyde which it contains. It is heavier, less liquid, and congeals more quickly than the Ceylon oil. </div> <div> There are also found in it cinnamyl acetate, cinnamic acid, phenylpropyl acetate and orthocumaric aldehyde, tannic acid and starch. </div> <div> Ceylon cinnamon, if tested with one or two drops of tincture of iodine to a fluid ounce of a decoction of the powder, is but little affected, while with Cassia a deep blueblack colour is produced. The cheaper kinds of Cassia can be distinguished by the greater quantity of mucilage, which can be extracted by cold water. </div> <div> Eighty pounds of the freshly-prepared bark yield about 2.5 oz. of the lighter of the two oils produced, and 5 5 of the heavier. </div> <div> An oil was formerly obtained by distilling the leaves after maceration in sea water, and this was imported into Great Britain. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_16"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stomachic, carminative, mildly astringent, said to be emmenagogue and capable of decreasing the secretion of milk. The tincture is useful in uterine haemorrhage and menorrhagia, the doses of 1 drachm being given every 5, 10 or 20 minutes as required. It is chiefly used to assist and flavour other drugs, being helpful in diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and to relieve flatulence. </div> <div> The oil is a powerful germicide, but being very irritant is rarely used in medicine for this purpose. It is a strong local stimulant, sometimes prescribed in gastro-dynia, flatulent colic, and gastric debility. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Of oil, 1 to 3 minims. Of powder, 10 to 20 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Poisons and Antidotes---</B>It was found that 6 drachms of the oil would kill a moderately sized dog in five hours, and 2 drachms in forty hours, inflammation of the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane being observed. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species, Substitutes and Adulterations---</B>The powder cinnamon is often adulterated with sugar, ground walnut shells, galanga rhizome, etc. </div> <div> The oil sometimes contains resin, petroleum, or oil of Cloves. <I>Saigon cinnamon</I> was recognized by the United States Pharmacopoeia in 1890. It comes from French Cochin-China, its botanical origin being uncertain. It is also known as Annam Cinnamon, China Cinnamon, and God's Cinnamon. </div> <div> <I>C. inners</I> gives the Wild Cinnamon of Japan. It is also found in Southern India, where the buds are more mature, and are employed medicinally by the Indians in dysentery, diarrhcea and coughs. The bark is used as a condiment. </div> <div> <I>C. lignea</I> includes several inferior varieties from the Malabar Coast. </div> <div> <I>C. Sintok</I> comes from Java and Sumatra. </div> <div> <I>C. obtusifolium</I>, from East Bengal, Assam, Burmah, etc., is perhaps not distinct from C. Zeylanicum. </div> <div> <I>C. Culilawan</I> and <I>C. rubrum</I> come from the Moluccas, Amboyna, and have a flavour of cloves. </div> <div> <I>C. Loureirii</I> grows in Cochin-China and Japan. </div> <div> <I>C. pauciflorum</I> is found from Silhet and Khasya. </div> <div> <I>C. Burmanni</I> is said to yield Massoi Bark, which is also a product of <I>Massora aromatica</I>. </div> <div> The bark of C<I>. Tamala</I> as well as the above species gives the inferior <I>Cassia Vera</I>. </div> <div> <I>C. inserta</I> is slightly known. </div> <div> <I>C. nitidum</I> has aromatic leaves, which, when dried, are said to have been the 'folia Malabathri.' </div> <div> Martinique and Cayenne contribute three varieties, from trees introduced from Ceylon and Sumatra. Other kinds are known as Black Cinnamon, Isle of France Cinnamon, and Santa Fé Cinnamon. </div> <div> Oil of Cassia is now recognized in the United States Pharmacopceia under the name of oil of Cinnamon. </div> <bR> <div> Castor Oil Plant</div> <div> Botanical: Ricinus communis (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Euphorbiaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparation for Market</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Palma Christi. Castor Oil Bush. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>By cultivation it has been distributed through not only all tropical and subtropical regions, but also in many of the temperate countries of the globe.</div> <div> The valuable purgative known as Castor Oil is the fixed oil obtained from the seeds of the Castor Oil plant. Besides being used medicinally, the oil is also employed for lubricating purposes, burning and for leather dressing. The Chinese are said to have some mode of depriving it of its medicinal properties so as to render it suitable for culinary purposes. </div> <div> The Castor Oil plant is a native of India, where it bears several ancient Sanskrit names, the most ancient and most usual being <I>Eranda</I>, which has passed into several other Indian languages. </div> <div> It is very variable in habit and appearance, the known varieties being very numerous, and having mostly been described as species. In the tropical latitudes most favourable to its growth, it becomes a tree 30 to 40 feet high; in the Azores and the warmer Mediterranean countries - Algeria, Egypt, Greece and the Riviera - it is of more slender growth, attaining an average height of only 10 to 15 feet, and farther north in France, and in this country, where it is cultivated as an ornamental plant on account of its large and beautiful foliage, it is merely a shrubby branched annual herb, rarely more than 4 to 5 feet high, with thick, hollow, herbaceous stems, which are cylindrical, smooth and shiny, with a purplish bloom in the upper part. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_19"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The handsome leaves are placed alternately on the stem, on long, curved, purplish foot-stalks, with drooping blades, generally 6 to 8 inches across, sometimes still larger, palmately cut for threefourths of their depth into seven to eleven lance-shaped, pointed, coarsely toothed segments. When fully expanded, they are of a blue-green colour, paler beneath and smooth; when young, they are red and shining. </div> <div> The flowers are male and female on the same plant, and are produced on a clustered, oblong, terminal spike. The male flowers are placed on the under portion of the spike; they have no corolla, only a green calyx, deeply cut into three to five segments, enclosing numerous, much branched, yellow stamens. The female flowers occupy the upper part of the spike and have likewise no corolla. The three narrow segments of the calyx are, however, of a reddish colour, and the ovary in their centre is crowned by deeply-divided, carmine-red threads (styles). The fruit is a blunt, greenish, deeply-grooved capsule less than an inch long, covered with soft, yielding prickles in each of which a seed is developed. The seeds of the different cultivated varieties differ much in size and in external markings but average seeds are of an oval, laterally compressed form. The smaller, annual varieties yield small seeds- the tree forms, large seeds. They have a shining, marble-grey and brown, thick, leathery outer coat, within which is a thin, dark-coloured, brittle coat. A large, distinct, leafy embryo lies in the middle of a dense, oily tissue (endosperm). The seeds contain a toxic substance which make them actively poisonous, so much so that <I>three</I> large seeds have been known to kill an adult. </div> <div> The following letter, taken from <I>The Chemist and Druggist</I> (February 19, 1921), corroborates the statement as to the 'toxic substance' in this plant: </div> <div> <B>CASTOR-OIL SEEDS DANGER</B> </div> <div> SIR, - On looking through my <I>C</I>. & <I>D</I>. I noticed your illustration of three ancient gentlemen "conferring at the Home Office as to whether Castor Oil should be put on the list of dangerous drugs," etc. Let me say that I think it very well might be, and I shall tell you why. In 1874, when I was in Squire's, Oxford Street, an assistant there was reading for his Minor examination, and as I had just come from Dr. Muter's school I used to bring up sometimes from the stockroom below samples of leaves, roots, seeds, etc., and show them to this assistant to see if he could tell what they were. One day I brought up some Castor Oil seeds, and asked if he knew what they were. He did not know, so I told him they were Castor Oil seeds . He said " I think it would be a good idea to make an emulsion of these and take it instead of the oil." I told him to shell them first, as there was a poisonous principle under the shell. He did so. I do not think he used more than six of the seeds, and when he had made the emulsion, which looked very nice, he drank it all. Within ten minutes he disappeared out of the shop unexpectedly, and an hour or two afterwards someone went up to his bedroom and found him Iying there unconscious. It was not then known what was wrong with him; but three West-End doctors near at hand were called in, and thinking he had taken some irritant poison they treated him with opiate injections, etc., as he had been severely purged and vomiting. I had gone off duty that afternoon at five o'clock, and when I came back at eleven there was considerable commotion among the assistants. They told me what had happened, and I was able to tell them exactly what the assistant had done, as until then they did not know. He lay for nearly a fortnight before he was able to resume work, and during that time he scarcely took any food, but one of the assistants made him jellies with gelatin and the juice of lemons and oranges, as well as other light articles of diet. I guess it - the emulsion - had acted very much in the same way as a few drops of croton oil would have done had it been made into an emulsion - as an irritant poison. I therefore think some caution is needed in dealing with Castor Oil seeds, if not particularly with the oil itself. On old-fashioned Castor Oil bottles the labels stated that it was "cold-drawn" oil. This, no doubt, would be because if heat were used in expressing the oil some of the poisonous principle would be dissolved by it. The coarser varieties of Gstor Oil, I think, are all more active than the fine oils, and this may likely be due to some of the poisonous element being expressed by the greater pressure used in making the cruder oil. Perhaps this note may serve as a caution to someone else who might be tempted to try an emulsion of Castor Oil seeds. </div> <div> Yours truly, </div> <div> R. THOMSON </div> <div> Elgin. </div> <div> In the South of England the plant ripens its seeds in favourable situations, and it has been known to come to maturity as far north as Christiania in Norway. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>It was known to Herodotus, who calls it <I>Kiki</I>, and states that it furnishes an oil much used by the Egyptians, in whose ancient tombs seeds of <I>Ricinus</I> are met with. At the period when Herodotus wrote (the fourth century B.C.), it would appear to have been already introduced into Greece, where it is cultivated to the present day under the same ancient name. The <I>Kikajon</I> of the Book of Jonah, rendered by the translators of the English Bible, 'gourd,' is believed to be the same plant. Kiki is also mentioned by Strabo as a production of Egypt, the oil from which is used for burning in lamps and for unguents. Theophrastus and Dioscorides, in the first century, describe the plant, Dioscorides giving an account of the process for extracting the oil and saying that it is not fit for food, but is used externally in medicine, and stating that the seeds are extremely purgative. Pliny, about the same time, also speaks of it as a drastic purgative. </div> <div> We read of it being employed medicinally in Europe during the early Middle Ages: it is recorded that it was cultivated by Albertus Magnus, Bishop of Ratisbon, in the middle of the thirteenth century, but later it fell into disuse, though Gerard (1597) was familiar with it under the name of <I>Ricinus</I> or Kik: the oil, he says, is called <I>Oleum cicinum</I> and used externally in skin diseases. As a garden plant, it was well known in this country in the time of Turner (1551). In the eighteenth century, its cultivation in Europe as a medicinal plant had, however, practically ceased, and the small supplies of the seeds and oil required for European medicine were obtained from Jamaica. The name 'Castor' was indeed originally applied about this period to the plant in Jamaica, where it seems to have been called 'Agnus Castus,' though it bears no resemblance to the South European plant properly so called. The botanical name is from the Latin <I>Ricinus</I> (a dog-tick), from the form and markings of the seed. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>The various varieties of <I>Ricinus</I>, which are perennial in their nativecountries, are generally annuals in England, though sometimes they may be preserved through the winter. </div> <div> Plants are readily grown from seed, which should be sown on a hot bed early in March. When the plants come up, each should be planted in a separate small pot, filled with light soil and plunged into a fresh hot bed. The young plants are kept under glass till early in June, when they are hardened and put out. </div> <div> <I>Ricinus</I> (Bronze King) and <I>R. Africanus</I> are two good garden varieties for this country, which if given good soil and kept well supplied with water, grow to a large size and make a fine effect in the garden. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparation for Market---</B>The seeds are collected when ripe: as the capsules dry, theyopen and discharge the seeds. </div> <div> The oil is obtained from the seeds by two principal methods - <I>expression</I> and <I>decoction</I>. The latter process is largely used in India, where the oil on account of its cheapness and abundance, is extensively employed for illuminating, as well as for other domestic andmedicinal purposes. </div> <div> The oil exported from Calcutta to Europe is prepared by shelling and crushing the seed between rollers. The crushed mass is then placed in hempen cloths and pressed in a screw or hydraulic press. The oil which exudes is mixed with water and heated till the water boils and the mucilaginous matter in the oil separates as a scum. It is next strained, then bleached in the sunlight and stored for exportation. </div> <div> In France, the oil is obtained by macerating the bruised seeds in alcohol, but the process is expensive and the product inferior. </div> <div> There are two modes of extracting the oil by <I>expression</I>: (1) without heat, when it is termed 'cold drawn Castor Oil,' this process being largely carried out in Italy, Marseilles, Belgium, Hull and London; (2) with heat, the process generally adopted in America. </div> <div> Italian Castor Oil, which is of an excellent quality, is pressed from seeds grown chiefly in the neighbourhood of Verona and Legnago. Two varieties of <I>Ricinus</I> are cultivated in these localities, the black-seeded Egyptian and the red-seeded American, the latter yields the larger percentage, but the oil is not so pale in colour. All the Castor Oil pressed in Italy, however, is not pressed from Italian seed, but some seeds are imported from India into Italy - as also into this country. </div> <div> In the north of Italy, the fresh seeds are alone used, and after they have been crushed and the seed coats very carefully removed with a winnowing machine and by hand, the blanched seeds are put into small hempen bags, which are arranged in superposed layers in a powerful hydraulic press, with a sheet of iron heated to 90 degrees F. between each layer, so as to enable the oil to flow readily, they are finally submitted to pressure in a room, which in the winter is heated to a temperature of about 70 degrees. The oil which first flows is of the finest quality, but an inferior oil is subsequently obtained by pressing the mass at a somewhat higher temperature. The peeled seeds yield about 40 per cent. of oil. After expression, the oil is usually bleached by exposure to sunlight or by chemical means. </div> <div> In America, where the oil is obtained by expression with heat, the manufacture is conducted on an extensive scale in California. There the seeds are submitted to a dry heat in a furnace for an hour or so, by which they are softened and prepared to part easily with their oil. They are then pressed in a large powerful screwpress, and the oily matter which flows out is mixed with an equal proportion of water, and boiled to purify it from mucilaginous and albuminous matter. After boiling about an hour, it is allowed to cool, the water is drawn off and the oil is transferred to zinc tanks or clarifiers capable of holding from 60 to 100 gallons. In these it stands about eight hours, bleaching in the sun, after which it is ready for storing. By this method, 100 lb. of good seeds yield about five gallons of pure oil. </div> <div> Of these three varieties of extraction, the Italian or cold drawn is considered the best the East Indian, the poorest, as the mode of purifying by heating with water is considered very imperfect. The former owes its freedom from acridity and unpleasant taste partly to the removal of the seed coats before pressing, and partly to the low temperature used during the manufacture. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_16"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The seeds contain 50 per cent of the fixed oil, which is a viscid fluid, almost colourless when pure, possessing only a slight odour and mild, yet highly nauseous and disagreeable taste. Its specific gravity is high for an oil, being 0.96, a little less than that of water, and it dissolves freely in alcohol, ether and glacial acetic acid. It contains Palmitic and several other fatty acids, among which there is one - Ricinoleic acid - peculiar to itself. This occurs in combination with glycerine, constituting the greater part of the bulk of the oil. The oil is decomposed by the fat-splitting ferments of the intestinal canal liberating this irritant Ricinoleic acid, to which the purgative action is considered in all probablity to be due. </div> <div> Both the seeds themselves and the cake left after the expression of the oil are violently purgative, a property which is due to the presence of the highly toxic albumin Ricin. The seeds are never employed in this country on account of their violent action. Ricin exhibits its highest toxicity when injected into the blood. It is of interest to note that the work upon which is based the whole science of Serum therapeutics was carried out by Ehrlich with Ricin. He found that by injecting gradually increasing doses, immunity was established, a condition which he attributed to the formation of an antibody and termed Antiricin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_17"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Castor Oil is regarded as one of the most valuable laxatives in medicine. It is of special service in temporary constipation and wherever a mild action is essential, and is extremely useful for children and the aged. It is used in cases of colic and acute diarrhoea due to slow digestion, but must not be employed in cases of chronic constipation, which it only aggravates whilst relieving the symptoms. It acts in about five hours, affecting the entire length of the bowel, but not increasing the flow of bile, except in very large doses. The mode of its action is unknown. The oil will purge when rubbed into the skin, or injected. It is also used for expelling worms, after other special remedies have been administered. </div> <div> The only serious objections to the use of Castor Oil are its flavour and the sickness often produced by it. The nauseous taste may be disguised by administering it covered by Lemon oil, Sassafras oil and other essential oils, or floating on Peppermint or Cinnamon water, or coffee, or shaken up with glycerine, or given in fresh or warmed milk, the dose varying from 1 to 4 teaspoonsful. Probably the best way, however, is to administer it in capsules. Small repeated doses may be given in the intestinal colic of children. </div> <div> It may also be made into an emulsion with the yolk of an egg or mucilage; or with orange-wine or gin. </div> <div> Castor Oil forms a clean, light-coloured soap, which dries and hardens well and is free from smell. It has been recommended for medicinal use. The inferior qualities of the oil are frequently employed in India for soap-making. </div> <div> Externally, the oil has been recommended for various cutaneous complaints, such as ringworm, itch, etc. The fresh leaves are used by nursing mothers in the Canary Islands as an external application, to increase the flow of milk. </div> <div> The oil varies much in activity - the East Indian is the more active, but the Italian has the least taste. </div> <div> Castor Oil is an excellent solvent of pure alkaloids and such solutions of Atropine, Cocaine, etc., as are used in ophthalmic surgery. It is also dropped into the eye to remove the after-irritation caused by the removal of foreign bodies. </div> <div> 'Castor Oil is finding increasing uses in the industrial world. It figures largely in the manufacture of the artificial leather used in upholstery; it furnishes a colouring for butter, and from it is produced the so-called 'Turkey-red' oil used in the dyeing of cotton textures. It is an essential component in some artificial rubbers, in various descriptions of celluloid, and in the making of certain waterproof preparations, and one of the largest uses is in the manufacture of transparent soaps. It also furnishes sebacic acid which is employed in the manufacture of candles, and caprylic acid, which enters into the composition of varnishes, especially suitable for the polishing of high-class furniture and carriage bodies. One of its minor uses is in the manufacture of fly-papers.' - 'West India Committee Circular.' (<I>Quoted in The Chemist and Druggist</I>.) </div> <div> 'THE CLEANING OF PICTURES. Lecturing in London, on November 15, on the preservation and restoration of pictures, Professor A. P. Lawrie, while not prepared to give a final opinion as to the safest methods of cleaning, suggested that where alcohol was used Castor Oil should be laid on the surface with a soft brush; and then a mixture of Castor Oil and alcohol dabbed on with a soft brush, and removed by diluting with turpentine and sopping up with a large dry brush. Where alcohol was not a sufficiently powerful solvent, copaiba balsam emulsified with ammonia might be used, a preparation of copaiba balsam thinned with a little turpentine being laid on first.' (<I>Chemist and Druggist</I>, November 25, 1922.) </div> <div> Combined with citron ointment, it is used as a topical application in common leprosy. </div> <bR> <div> Catechu, Pale</div> <div> Botanical: Uncaria Gambier (ROXB.)</div> <bR> <div> Catechu Pallidum</div> <div> Family: N.O. Rubiaceae</div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Terra Japonica. Gambier. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Singapore and other places of the Eastern Archipelago. </div> <bR> <div> Catechu, Black</div> <div> Botanical: Catechu nigrum, Acacia catechu (WILLD.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Cutch. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Burma, India. </div> <div> Pale Catechu is an extract made from the leaves and young shoots of <I>Uncaria Gambier</I> (Roxb.), a member of the order Rubiaceae, not an Acacia. It occurs in commerce in dark or pale-brown cubes with a dull, powdery fracture, or sometimes in lozenge form. </div> <div> Black Catechu occurs in black, shining pieces or cakes. </div> <div> Both substances are sold under the name of Catechu. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_18"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Both the dark and the pale Catechu are employed in medicine, the former is more astringent, the latter, being sweeter, is less disagreeable. </div> <div> It depends almost entirely for its virtues upon the tannic acid it contains and is hence employed as an astringent to overcome relaxation of mucous membranes in general. </div> <div> An infusion can be employed to stop nosebleeding, and is also employed as an injection for uterine haemorrhage, leucorrhoea and gonorrhoea. </div> <div> Externally, it is applied in the form of powder, to boils, ulcers and cutaneous eruptions, and also used for the same purposes mixed with other ingredients, in an ointment. </div> <div> A small piece, held in the mouth and allowed slowly to dissolve, is an excellent remedy in relaxation of the uvula and simple pharyngitis. </div> <div> In powder, applied to spongy gums, it often proves of use and has been recommended as a dentifrice with powdered charcoal, myrrh, etc. </div> <div> The pharmaceutical preparations are: Powdered Catechu, dose 5 to 15 grains; Compound Powder of Catechu, B.P., dose 10 to 40 grains; Tincture of Catechu, B.P., dose 1/2 to 1 drachm; Comp. Tincture, U.S.P., dose 1 drachm. Catechu Lozenges are also official preparations in both the British and United States Pharmacopoeias. </div> <div> Like <I>Acacia arabica</I>, the wood-extract of this species has, however, a larger field in the tanning industry than in medicine. The Pale Catechu (<I>Gambier Catechu</I>) is largely used in the arts, for dyeing purposes, yielding a colour known as 'Cutch Brown.' </div> <div> Cutch is subject to the most extensive <I>adulteration</I>, though this exists chiefly in the tanning grades. The chief adulterants are Than (an extract obtained by boiling the bark of <I>Buceras oliverii</I>), dried blood, ashes, sand, clay and starch, and their detection is provided for in the official tests. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>ACACIA, BARK</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>ACACIA, CATECHU</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>ACACIA, (FALSE)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>ACACIA, (GUM)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Catmint</div> <div> Botanical: Nepeta cataria (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Labiatae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Catnep. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Leaves, herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Catmint or Catnep, a wild English plant belonging to the large family <I>Labiatae</I>, of which the Mints and Deadnettles are also members, is generally distributed throughout the central and the southern counties of England, in hedgerows, borders of fields, and on dry banks and waste ground, especially in chalky and gravelly soil. It is less common in the north, very local in Scotland and rare in Ireland, but of frequent occurrence in the whole of Europe and temperate Asia, and also common in North Arnerica, where originally. however. it was an introduced species. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_20"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The root is perennial and sends up square, erect and branched stems, 2 to 3 feet high, which are very leafy and covered with a mealy down. The heartshaped, toothed leaves are also covered with a soft, close down, especially on the under sides, which are quite white with it, so that the whole plant has a hoary, greyish appearance, as though it had had dust blown over it. </div> <div> The flowers grow on short footstalks in dense whorls, which towards the summit of the stem are so close as almost to form a spike. They are in bloom from July to September. The individual flowers are small, the corollas two-lipped, the upper lip straight, of a whitish or pale pink colour, dotted with red spots, the anthers a deep red colour. The calyx tube has fifteen ribs, a distinguishing feature of the genus <I>Nepeta</I>, to which this species belongs. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>The plant has an aromatic, characteristic odour, which bears a certain resemblance to that of both Mint and Pennyroyal. It is owing to this scent that it has a strange fascination for cats, who will destroy any plant of it that may happen to be bruised. There is an old saying about this plant: </div> <div> 'If you set it, the cats will eat it, </div> <div> If you sow it, the cats don't know it.' </div> <div> And it seems to be a fact that plants transplanted are always destroyed by cats unless protected, but they never meddle with the plants raised from seed, being only attracted to it when it is in a withering state, or when the peculiar scent of the plant is excited by being bruised in gathering or transplanting. </div> <div> In France the leaves and young shoots are used for seasoning, and it is regularly grown amongst kitchen herbs for the purpose. Both there and in this country, it has an old reputation for its value as a medicinal herb. Miss Bardswell, in <I>The Herb Garden</I>, writes of Catmint: </div> <div> 'Before the use of tea from China, our English peasantry were in the habit of brewing Catmint Tea, which they said was quite as pleasant and a good deal more wholesome. Ellen Montgomery in <I>The Wide, Wide World</I> made Catmint Tea for Miss Fortune when she was ill. It is stimulating. The root when chewed is said to make the most gentle person fierce and quarrelsome, and there is a legend of a certain hangman who could never screw up his courage to the point of hanging anybody till he had partaken of it. Rats dislike the plant particularly, and will not approach it even when driven by hunger.' </div> <div> This dislike of rats for Catmint might well be utilized by growing it round other valuable crops as a protective screen. </div> <div> Closely allied to the Catmint is the Ground Ivy (<I>Nepeta glechoma</I>, Benth.), named <I>Glechoma hederacea</I> by Linnaeus. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Catmint is easily grown in any garden soil, and does not require moisture in the same way as the other Mints. It may be increased by dividing the plants in spring, or by sowing seeds at the same period. Sow in rows, about 20 inches apart, thinning out the seedlings to about the same distance apart as the plants attain a considerable size. They require no attention, and will last for several years if the ground is kept free from weeds. The germinating power of the seeds lasts five years. </div> <div> Catmint forms a pretty border plant, especially in conjunction with Hyssop, the soft blues blending pleasingly, and it is also a suitable plant for the rock garden. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The flowering tops are the part utilized in medicine and are harvested when the plant is in full bloom in August. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_19"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Carminative, tonic, diaphoretic, refrigerant and slightly emmenagogue, specially antispasmodic, and mildly stimulating. </div> <div> Producing free perspiration, it is very useful in colds. Catnep Tea is a valuable drink in every case of fever, because of its action in inducing sleep and producing perspiration without increasing the heat of the system. It is good in restlessness, colic, insanity and nervousness, and is used as a mild nervine for children, one of its chief uses being, indeed, in the treatment of children's ailments. The infusion of 1 OZ. to a pint of boiling water may be taken by adults in doses of 2 tablespoonsful, by children in 2 or 3 teaspoonsful frequently, to relieve pain and flatulence. An injection of Catnep Tea is also used for colicky pains. </div> <div> The herb should always be <I>infused</I>, boiling will spoil it. Its qualities are somewhat volatile, hence when made it should be covered up. </div> <div> The tea may be drunk freely, but if taken in very large doses when warm, it frequently acts as an emetic. </div> <div> It has proved efficacious in nervous headaches and as an emmenagogue, though for the latter purpose, it is preferable to use Catnep, not as a warm tea, but to express the juice of the green herb and take it in tablespoonful doses, three times a day. </div> <div> An injection of the tea also relieves headache and hysteria, by its immediate action upon the sacral plexus. The young tops, made into a conserve, have been found serviceable for nightmare. </div> <div> Catnep may be combined with other agents of a more decidedly diaphoretic nature. Equal parts of warm Catnep tea and Saffron are excellent in scarlet-fever and small-pox, as well as colds and hysterics. It will relieve painful swellings when applied in the form of a poultice or fomentation. </div> <div> Old writers recommended a decoction of the herb, sweetened with honey for relieving a cough, and Culpepper tells us also that 'the juice drunk in wine is good for bruises,' and that 'the green leaves bruised and made into an ointment is effectual for piles,' and that 'the head washed with a decoction taketh away scabs, scurf, etc.' </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>MINTS</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Catnep</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Catmint</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Catsfoot</div> <div> Botanical: Antennaria dioca (GAEERTN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Doses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Life Everlasting. Mountain Everlasting. Gnaphalium dioicum (Linn.). Cudweed. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Whole herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Europe, Asia, America to the Arctic regions, abundant in Great Britain, often to the coast level. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_21"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>This plant derives its name from the antennae of a butterfly which the pappus hairs of the Staminate florets resemble. </div> <div> It is the only British species, a small perennial with tufted or creeping leafly stalks and almost simple flowering stems, from 2 to 5 inches high. Lower leaves obovate or oblong, upper ones linear, white underneath or on both sides. Flowers early summer white and pinky, dioecious. In the males, inner bracts of the involucre have broad white petal-like tips, the females inner bracts narrow and white at tips, florets filiform with long protruding pappus to the achenes. Taste astringent odour pleasant and strongest in the female heads, male plant has white membraneous scales and the female rosecoloured. Gerard alludes to it as 'Live for ever,' and says: </div> <div> 'When the flower hath long flourished and is waxen old, then comes there in the middest of the floure a certain brown yellow thrumme, such as is in the middest of the daisie, which floure being gathered when it is young may be kept in such manner (I meane in such freshness and well-liking) by the space of a whole year after in your chest or elsewhere, wherefore our English women have called it "Live Long," or "Live-for ever," which name doth aptly answer thiseffects.' </div> <div> Another variety of Cudweed was called 'Herbe Impious' or 'Wicked Cudweed,' a variety </div> <div> 'like unto the small Cudweed, but much larger and for the most part those floures which appeare first are the lowest and basest; and they are over topt by other floures, which come on younger branches, and grow higher as children seeking to overgrow or overtop their parents (as many wicked children do) for which cause it hath been called "Herbe Impious." ' </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_20"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Discutient and used for its astringent properties, as a cure for quinsy, and mumps, said to be efficacious for bites of poisonous reptiles, and for looseness of bowels. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_17"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Resin, volabile oil tanin and a bitter principle. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Doses---</B><I>For a mouthwash:</I> 1 OZ. Cudweed, 1 OZ. Raspberry Leaves, 1 OZ. Tincture of Myrrh. <I>As an infusion:</I> 1 OZ. herb to pint boiling water is given internally in wineglassful doses and applied externally, as a gargle and as a fomentation. <I>Fluid extract:</I> Dose, 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <bR> <div> Caulophyllum</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>(Blue) Cohosh</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cayenne</div> <div> Botanical: Capsicum minimum (ROXB.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Solanaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Doses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>African Pepper. Chillies. Bird Pepper. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Fruit, ripe and dried. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Zanzibar - but now grown in most tropical and sub-tropical countries. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_22"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Cayenne or Capsicum derives its name from the Greek, 'to bite,' in allusion to the hot pungent properties of the fruits and seeds. Cayenne pepper was introduced into Britain from India in 1548, and Gerard mentioned it as being cultivated in his time. The plant was described by Linnaeus under the name of <I>C. frutescens</I> proper. This species appeared in Miller's <I>Garden Dictionary</I> in 1771. It is a shrubby perennial plant 2 to 6 feet high. Branches angular, usually enlarged and slightly purple at the nodes; petioles medium; peduncles slender, often in pairs, and longer than the fruit; calyx cup-shaped, clasping base of fruit which is red, ovate, and long; seeds small and flat, from ten to twenty-nine. The cuticle of the pericarp is uniformly striated and in this particular is distinct from other species. Taste very pungent and smell characteristic. It is difficult to determine the source of true powdered Capsicum, as the colour is affected by light, so that it should always be kept in dark receptacles. African pepper is generally light brownish-yellow colour and very pungent; its pungency appears to depend on a principle called Capsicin. Cayenne is sometimes adulterated with oxide of red lead, which may be detected by digesting in dilute nitric acid. Other adulterants are coloured sawdust which can be found by the aid of the microscope. The British Pharmacopceia requires that capsicum should yield not more than 6 per cent of ash, and this test detects the presence of most adulterants. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_18"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Capsaicin, a red colouring matter, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_21"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>A powerful local stimulant, with no narcotic effect largely used in hot climates as a condiment, and most useful in atony of the intestines and stomach. It should not be used in ordinary gastric catarrh. For persons addicted to drink it seems to be useful possibly by reducing the dilated blood-vessels and thus relieving chronic congestion. It is often added to tonics and is said to be unequalled for warding off diseases. Herbalists use it largely in pill form and powdered. Externally it is a strong rubefacient and acts gently with no danger of vesication; is applied as a cataplasm or as a liniment; it can be mixed with 10 to 20 per cent of cotton-seed oil. The powder or the tincture is beneficial for relaxed uvula. A preparation in use in the West Indies called Mandram, for weak digestion and loss of appetite, is made of thinly sliced and unskinned cucumbers, shallots, chives, or onions, lemon or lime juice, Madeira, and a few pods of bird pepper well mashed up in the liquids. It can be used as a chutney. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Doses---</B><I>For a gargle</I>: 1/2 drachm of powder to 1 pint of boiling water, or 1/2 fluid ounce of the tincture to 8 fluid ounces of rose water. If the throat is very sensitive it can be given in <I>pill form</I> - generally made with 1 to 10 grains powder. <I>The infusion</I> is made with 2 drachms to 1/2 pint boiling water taken in 1/2 fluid ounce doses. The tincture is used as a paint for chilblains. </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>PAPRIKA</U></FONT> (listed as a synonym of Pepper, Hungarian). </div> <bR> <div> Cedar, Yellow</div> <div> Botanical: Thuja occidentalis (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Coniferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Poisons</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Tree of Life. Arbor Vitae. American Arbor Vitae. Cedrus Lycea. Western Arbor Vitae. False White Cedar. Hackmatack. Thuia du Canada. Lebensbaum. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The recently-dried, leafy young twigs. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>North America, from Pennsylvania northward. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_23"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The tallest of this species of Conifer rarely grows above 30 feet high. These trees have regular, graceful conical forms that make them valuable as highhedge trees, and they also take easily any other shape to which they may be clipped. The leaves are of two kinds on different branchlets, one awl-shaped and the other short and obtuse. Both have a small, flattened gland, containing a thin, fragrant turpentine. They are persistent, and overlap in four rows. The flowers are very small and terminal, and the cones nodding first ovoid and then spreading, with blunt scales arranged in three rows. </div> <div> The name Thuja is a latinized form of a Greek word meaning 'to fumigate,' or <I>thuo</I> ('to sacrifice'), for the fragrant wood was burnt by the ancients with sacrifices. The tree was described as 'arbor vita ' by Clusius, who saw it in the royal garden of Fontainebleau after its importation from Canada. It was introduced into Britain about 1566. </div> <div> In America the wood is much used for fencing and palings, as a light roofing timber, and, as it is both durable and pliable, for the ribs and bottom of bark boats, and also for limekilns, bowls, boxes, cups, and small articles of furniture. </div> <div> The fresh branches are much used in Canada for besoms, which have a pleasing scent. The odour is pungent and balsamic and the taste bitter, resembling camphor and terebinth. </div> <div> The trees grow well on the western coast hills of Britain, and the wood is soft, finely grained, and light in texture. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_19"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The bitter principle, Pinipicrin, and the tannic acid, said to beidentical with Pinitannic acid, occur also in <I>Pinus sylvestris</I>. Thuja also contains volatile oil, sugar, gelatinous matter, wax, resin, and Thujin. The last is a citron-yellow, crystallizable colouring principle, soluble in alcohol. It has an astringent taste, is inflammable, and can be split up into glucose, Thujigenin and Thujetin (<I>probably identical with Quercitin</I>). </div> <div> The leaves and twigs are said to yield also a camphor-like essential oil, sp. gr. 0.925, boiling point 190-206 degrees C., easily soluble in alcohol and containing pinene, fenchone, thujone, and perhaps carvone. </div> <div> A yellow-green volatile oil can be distilled from the leaves and used as a vermifuge. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_22"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Aromatic, astringent, diuretic. The twigs may produce abortion, like those of savin, by reflex action on the uterus from severe gastrointestinal irritation. Both fenchone and thujone stimulate the heart muscle. The decoction has been used in intermittent fevers, rheumatism, dropsy, coughs, scurvy, and as an emmenagogue. The leaves, made into an ointment with fat, are a helpful local application in rheumatism. An injection of the tincture into venereal warts is said to cause them to disappear. For violent pains the Canadians have used the cones, powdered, with four-fifths of Polypody, made into a poultice with lukewarm water or milk and applied to the body, with a cloth over the skin to prevent scorching. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>Of fluid extract, 1/4 drachm, three to six times a day, as stimulating expectorant and diuretic. The infusion of 1 OZ. to a pint of boiling water is taken cold in tablespoonful doses. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Poisons---</B>The oil, resembling camphor, may produce convulsions in warmblooded and paralysis in cold-blooded animals. Sixteen drops of the oil, taken by a girl of fifteen, caused unconsciousness, followed by spasms and convulsions, with subsequent stomachic irritation. It causes great flatulence and distension of the stomach. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> CHINESE ARBOR VITAE (<I>Thuja orientalis</I> or <I>Biota orientalis</I>), a native of China and Japan has the same properties. The young branches yield a yellow dye and the wood withstands conditions of humidity well. </div> <div> <I>T. articulata</I>, of Northern Africa, yields the resin known as Sandarac, formerly used as a drug, and for ointments and plasters. At present it is used as varnish and incense, and the powder, or Pounce, is used to prevent ink spreading on paper after letters have been scratched out. It is occasionally adulterated with mastic, rosin, etc. A false sandarac consists largely of colophony. </div> <div> Sandarac is said to be used in India for haemorrhoids and diarrhoea and the tincture for friction in cases of low spirits. </div> <div> The Australian sandarac, from <I>C. robusta</I>, is very similar. </div> <div> WHITE CEDAR is a common name of <I>Cupressus thujoides</I>. </div> <div> RED CEDAR OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, the Giant Arbor Vitae, is next to the Douglas Fir in importance in British Columbia, where it attains its greatest height of 100 feet. It is the best wood to use for shingles. </div> <div> RED CEDAR, or <I>Juniperus virginiana</I>, resembles savin, but is less energetic. Externally it is an irritant, and an ointment prepared from the fresh leaves is used as a substitute for savin cerate in discharge from blisters. The volatile oil has been used for abortion and has caused death, preceded by burning in the stomach, vomiting, convulsions, coma, and gastro-intestinal inflammation. It is used in perfumery, and is a principal constituent of extract of white rose. </div> <div> Small excrescences called cedar apples are sometimes found on the branches, and used as an anthelmintic. Dosage: from 10 to 20 grains three times a day. </div> <div> To obtain Cedrene camphor the oil must be cooled until coagulated and the crystalline portion separated by expression. </div> <div> HAITIAN CEDAR yields an oil resembling that of <I>J. virginiana</I>, but having a higher specific gravity. </div> <div> HACKMATOCK is also the name of <I>Larix americana</I>. </div> <div> CEDAR OF LEBANON (<I>Cedrus libani</I>) and its two varieties. </div> <div> INDIAN CEDAR or DEODAR (C. deodara) and AFRICAN CEDAR (<I>C. Atlantica</I>), or satinwood, yield an oil which, when distilled, is called Libanol. The oil of the last resembles oil of santal, and is good for phthisis, bronchitis, blennorrhagia, and also for eruptions on the skin, in the form of 25 per cent ointment with vaseline. Dosage: capsules up to 45 grains per day. </div> <div> <I>Cedrela odorata</I> of the West Indies yields a volatile oil that is said to be a powerful insecticide. The wood is used for making cigar boxes. Another cedar of the same family of Cedrelaceae or Meliaceae is AUSTRALIAN RED CEDAR (<I>C. tooma</I>) or Red Cedar of Queensland, yielding Cedar Gum, containing 68 per cent arabin, and 6 per cent metarabin, but no resin. </div> <div> NEW ZEALAND CEDAR (<I>Libocedrus bidwillii</I>) and also CALIFORNIAN WHITE CEDAR (<I>L. decurrens</I>) possess some of the same properties. </div> <div> PRICKLY CEDAR (<I>J. oxycedrus</I>) (<I>syn</I>. Large, Brown-fruited Juniper), of the Mediterranean coasts, yields Oil of Cade by destructive distillation of the wood. It has been used from remote ages for the skin diseases of animals, and more recently in medicine for psoriasis and chronic eczema. It is a good parasiticide in psora and favus. </div> <div> It is also made into ointments and soaps, and a glycerite is prepared. </div> <div> On the very rare occasions of its internal use, its action resembles oil of tar. Dosage: 1 to 3 minims. </div> <div> <I>J. phoenicia</I> is used in Europe to adulterate savin. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>PINE</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>PINE (LARCH)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>PINE, WHITE</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>PINE (GROUND)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>PINE, AMERICAN (GROUND)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Cedron</div> <div> Botanical: Simaba Cedron (PLANCH.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Simarubaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Cedron seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Columbia and Central America. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_24"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A small tree, a native of New Grenada, remarkable for the properties of its seed. It has large pinnated leaves with over twenty narrow elliptical leaflets and large panicles of flowers, 3 to 4 feet long; the fruit is about the size of a swan's egg, and contains only one fruit, four of the cells being barren. The Cedron of commerce is not unlike a large blanched almond - it is often yellowish, hard and compact, but can be easily cut, it is intensely bitter, not unlike quassia in taste and has no odour. The Cedron of commerce is obtained from the seed. Cedron has always been used in Central America as a remedy for snake-bite, and first came into notice in Britain in 1699. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_23"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>It has been found of considerable value in New Grenada as a febrifuge in intermittent fever, and is also recommended as an antiperiodic. There is almost a superstitious belief in its efficacy in eradicating poison, and the natives always carry some of the seeds on their person. For snake-bites, a small quantity is scraped off, mixed with water and applied to the wound, and then about 2 grains are put into brandy or into water and taken internally. Every part of the plant, including the seed, is intensely bitter. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_20"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A crystalline substance called Cedrin was separated by Lowry, but this has been disputed. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Of the crude drug, 5 to 15 grains. Of powdered seeds, 1 to 10 grains. </div> <div> The infusion, which is taken in tablespoonful doses, is made with 1 OZ. of the herb to 1 pint of boiling water. Hyperdermically, Cedrin has been given, 1/15 of a grain. </div> <div> The powdered bark is used to kill vermin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B>The <I>Simaruba versicolor</I> has similar properties. </div> <bR> <div> Celandine, Greater</div> <div> Botanical: Chelidonium majus (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Papaveraceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Common Celandine. Garden Celandine. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Found by old walls, on waste ground and in hedges, nearly always in the neighbourhood of human habitations. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_25"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>At first glance, the four petals arranged in the form of a cross make it appear a member of the order <I>Cruciferce</I>, but it is not related to these plants, belonging to the same family as the Poppies (<I>Papaveraceae</I>) and has, like these flowers, a dense mass of stamens in the centre of its blossoms. </div> <div> The Celandine is a herbaceous perennial. The root is thick and fleshy. The stem, which is slender, round and slightly hairy, grows from 1 1/2 to 3 feet high and is much branched; at the points where the branches are given off, it is swollen and jointed and breaks very easily. </div> <div> The whole plant abounds in a bright, orange-coloured juice, which is emitted freely wherever the stems or leaves are broken. This juice stains the hands strongly and has a persistent and nauseous taste and a strong, disagreeable smell. It is acrid and a powerful irritant. </div> <div> The yellowish-green leaves, which are much paler, almost greyish below, are very thin in texture, drooping immediately on gathering. They are graceful in form and slightly hairy, 6 to 12 inches long, 2 to 3 inches wide, deeply divided as far as the central rib, so as to form usually two pairs of leaflets, placed opposite to one another, with a large terminal leaflet. The margins (i.e. edges) of the leaflets are cut into by rounded teeth. </div> <div> The flowers drop very quickly when picked. They are arranged at the ends of the stems in loose umbels. They blossom throughout the summer, being succeeded by narrow, long pods, containing blackish seeds. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>This plant is undoubtedly the true Celandine, having nothing in common with the Lesser Celandine except the colour of its flowers. It was a drug plant in the Middle Ages and is mentioned by Pliny, to whom we owe the tradition that it is called Chelidonium from the Greek <I>chelidon</I> (a swallow), because it comes into flower when the swallows arrive and fades at their departure. (The English name Celandine is merely a corruption of the Greek word.) Its acrid juice has been employed successfully in removing films from the cornea of the eye, a property which Pliny tells us was discovered by swallows, this being a double reason why the plant should be named after these birds. </div> <div> Gerard says: </div> <div> 'the juice of the herbe is good to sharpen the sight, for it cleanseth and consumeth away slimie things that cleave about the ball of the eye and hinder the sight and especially being boiled with honey in a brasen vessell, as Dioscorides teacheth.' </div> <div> It is one of the twenty-four herbs mentioned in Mercer's <I>Herbal</I>. </div> <div> In the fourteenth century, a drink made with Celandine was supposed to be good for the blood. Clusius, the celebrated Dutch botanist, considered that the juice, dropped into small green wounds, effected rapid cure, and when dropped into the eye would take away specks and stop incipient suffusions. The old alchemists held that it was good to 'superstifle the jaundice,' because of its intense yellow colour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used---</B>The whole herb, collected in the wild state, from May to July, when in flower, and dried. Likewise, the fresh juice. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_21"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The alkaloids Chelidonine and Chelerythrin, the latter narcotic and poisonous, also the two nearly allied alkaloids, Homochelidonine A, and Homocheli donine B. In addition, Protopine and Sanguinarine, and a body named Chelidoxanthin, a neutral bitter principle. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_24"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Alterative, diuretic, purgative. It is used in jaundice, eczema, scrofulous diseases, etc., the infusion of 1 OZ. of the dried herb to a pint of boiling water being taken in wineglassful doses. The infusion is a cordial and greatly promotes perspiration. The addition of a few aniseeds in making a decoction of the herb in wine has been held to increase its efficacy in removing obstructions of the liver and gall. </div> <div> A fluid extract is also prepared, the dose being 1/2 to 1 drachm. Eight to 10 drops of the tincture made from the whole herb, or of the fresh juice, given as a dose three times a day in sweetened water, is considered excellent for overcoming torpid conditions of the liver. In the treatment of the worst forms of scurvy it has been given with benefit. </div> <div> The orange-coloured, acrid juice is commonly used fresh to cure warts, ringworm and corns, but should not be allowed to come into contact with any other part of the skin. </div> <div> In milk, it is employed as an eye-lotion, to remove the white, opaque spots on the cornea. Mixed with sulphur, it was formerly used to cure the itch. </div> <div> An ointment made of the roots and lard boiled together, also of the leaves and flowers, has been used with advantage for piles. </div> <div> Celandine is a very popular medicine in Russia, where it is said to have proved effective in cases of cancer. </div> <div> It is still used in Suffolk as a fomentation for toothache. </div> <bR> <div> Celandine, Lesser</div> <div> Botanical: Ranunculus ficaria (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Aciton and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Recipes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Small Celandine. Figwort. Smallwort. Pilewort. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>The Lesser Celandine, one of the very earliest of spring flowers, its cheery, starlike blossoms lighting up our hedges even before winter is quite spent, is distributed throughout Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, in these islands, growing up the hillsides in Wales to a height of 2,400 feet. It grows in moist corners of fields and places near watersides, but is found also on drier ground, if shady, being one of the few plants that thrive beneath the shade of trees, where its glossy foliage frequently forms a dense carpet. </div> <div> Wordsworth, whose favourite flower this was (in recognition of which the blossoms are carved on his tomb), fancifully suggests that the painter who first tried to picture the rising sun, must have taken the idea of the spreading pointed rays from the Celandine's 'glittering countenance.' The burnishing of the golden petals gives a brilliant effect to the flowers, which burst into bloom about the middle of February, a few days only after their bright, shining leaves. The leaves are on long stalks, arising from a short, prostrate stem, and are very variable, the first being heart-shaped, the later ones bluntly cut into, somewhat like the ivy. They often have dark markings. </div> <div> The blossoms shut up before rain, and even in fine weather do not open before nine o'clock, and by 5 p.m. have already closed for the night. The Celtic name of the plant, <I>Grian</I> (i.e. the sun), refers to this habit. The petals are green on the underside, and directly the flowers close they become inconspicuous. </div> <div> Throughout March and April, this cheerful little plant is in full bloom, but as the spring passes into summer, the flowers pale somewhat, and the whole plant looks rather sickly, the warmth of the lengthening days withdrawing from it the needed moisture. By the end of May, no flowers are to be seen, and all the plant above ground withers and dies, the virtue being stored up in the fibres of the root, which swell into the form of tubers. If the plant is dug up, late in the summer or autumn, these tubers are seen hanging in a bunch, a dozen or more together, looking like figs, hence the plant's specific Latin name <I>ficaria</I>, from <I>ficus</I> (a fig). By these tubers, the plant is increased, as they break off readily, each tuber, like a potato, producing a new plant. To eradicate this plant from any ground, it is necessary to remove the roots bodily, for if the plants are dug into the soil, they work their way up to the surface again, the stems branching as they grow upward from the tubers, and at every branch producing fresh tubers. </div> <div> The early awakening of the plant is due to these fully-stored tubers, which lie quiescent all the summer and autumn, but all necessary materials being at hand, leaves and flowers are quickly pushed upwards directly the depth of the winter has passed. </div> <div> Although the Lesser Celandine has been placed by some botanists in a distinct genus, when it is called <I>Ficaria verna</I>, it is more generally assigned to the Buttercup or Crowfoot genus, <I>Ranunculus</I>. The name of this genus, first employed by Pliny, alludes to the damp and marshy localities preferred by the plants of the family, <I>Rana</I>, being the Latin for a frog, whose native haunts are those of the majority of this group of plants. The Lesser Celandine is distinguished from the Buttercup by having nine or ten, even sometimes a dozen narrow petals, instead of five, and only three sepals (the outer, generally green leaves of the flower), which fall off on opening, instead of the usual five, which remain after the flower has expanded, in the other species of <I>Ranunculus</I>. The flowers rise singly from the root, on long, slender, leafless stalks and are about 1 inch in diameter. There are a number of stamens. The fruits are not unlike those of the Buttercups being dry and distinct, set together in a globular head, somewhat like a grain of corn and whitish in colour, but comparatively few fertile seeds are produced. </div> <div> The flowers would originally appear to have been designed with the object of attracting insects for their fertilization, the bright coloured, burnished petals having honey sacs at their base, but the flowers can face colder days than the insects can, for whom the honey has been provided, blooming when few of the insects have emerged, with the result that comparatively few become fertilized in this country and not many seeds are produced. The plant, therefore, has recourse to another method of reproduction, independent of all external aid. At the point where the upper leaves join the stem are to be seen little objects like minute round tumours, which grow about the size of a grain of wheat. In the early summer, when the leaves and stems are dying down, these grains become loose and drop to the ground. Each is capable of producing a new plant. A heavy rain will sometimes wash them from the plants in every direction. Kerner, in his <I>Natural History of Plants</I>, tells us that: </div> <div> 'a sudden downpour of rain in a region abundantly overgrown with Lesser Celandine is sufficient to float away numbers of the tubers, and heap them up on the borders of irrigation channels when the rain disperses. In such places the quantity of tubers which have floated together is often so large that one can hardly gather them in one's hands. In this way arose the idea that the tubers had fallen from heaven with the rain and the myth of a rain of potatoes.' </div> <div> This fact probably accounts, also, for the 'rains of wheat' sometimes vouched for by country people in various parts. These bulbils (i.e. Iittle bulbs) are only produced on those plants whose fruits have failed to set. </div> <div> The root of the Lesser Celandine is perennial. </div> <div> Seedlings do not flower in their first year, but collect and store up material to start their accustomed course at the end of the ensuing winter. </div> <div> The whole plant is glabrous. </div> <div> It is called the Lesser Celandine to distinguish it from the Greater Celandine, to which it has neither relationship nor similarity, except in the colour of its flowers, though the older herbalists applied the name to both plants indiscriminately. The confusion of names existed in Gerard's time, for he published a list of all the plants in cultivation in his garden on Holborn Hill - to wards the close of the sixteenth century and introduced in it, under the same name, both this and the Greater Celandine (<I>Chelidonium majus</I>) which certainly is in bloom when the swallows arrive, and continues to flower the whole summer, and so would have more right to the name Celandine than this species, which blossoms long before they come, and dies down months before they leave our shores. </div> <div> A figure of the Lesser Celandine - under the name of <I>Erdöpffel</I> - appears in an old German Herbal of 1533, Rhodion's <I>Kreutterbuch</I>, evidence that this plant was well known to the herbalists of the Middle Ages. </div> <div> It is also called 'Small-wort.' </div> <div> The old English name of Pilewort is due to the fact that it has long been considered a cure for piles, one of the reasons assigned for this resting on the strange doctrine of signatures. We are told by an old writer: 'If you dig up the root of it you will perceive the perfect image of the disease commonly called the piles.' Gerard writes of it: </div> <div> 'It presently, as Galen and Dioscorides affirm (though this perhaps refers to the Greater Celandine) exulcerateth or blistereth the skin: it maketh rough and corrupt nails to fall away. The juice of the roots mixed with honie and drawn up into the nosthrils purgeth the head of foul and filthy humours. The later age use the roots and graines for the piles . . . there be also who think that if the berbe be but carried about one that hath the piles, the pain forthwith ceaseth.' </div> <div> Culpepper, writing fifty years later, tells us: </div> <div> 'It is certain by good experience that the decoction of the leaves and roots doth wonderfully help piles and haemorrhoids; also kernels by the ears and throat called the King's Evil, or any other hard wens or tumours.' </div> <div> He had such faith in the virtues of this little plant that he further tells us, with more definite belief than Gerard: 'The very herb borne about one's body next the skin helps in such diseases though it never touch the place grieved.' </div> <div> The young leaves, the substance of which is soft and mucilaginous, have sometimes been boiled and eaten as a vegetable in Sweden, but have not the reputation of being very palatable, either thus treated or raw as a salad. </div> <div> Linnaeus advised farmers to eradicate the plant from their land on account of it being disliked by cattle (though wood-pigeons eat it with avidity), also for its injurious effect on other herbs in the meadow, but there seems little ground for this assumption, as although the tissues of most plants in this order contain acrid juices to a high degree, the acrimony of the Lesser Celandine is of a very mild character. A dressing of coal or wood ash is said to effectually destroy the whole plant. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used---</B>The whole herb is collected in the wild state, while in flower in March and April, and dried. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_22"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Nothing is known definitely concerning the constituents of Pilewort the fresh plant, however, probably contains traces of an acrid principle resembling or identical with Anemonin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_25"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Astringent This herb is an old remedy for piles, for which it has recently been re-introduced into the British Pharmacopoeia, and is considered almost a specific. </div> <div> Internally, the infusion of 1 OZ. in a pint of boiling water is taken in wineglassful doses, and will in most cases be sufficient to effect a cure. </div> <div> It is also used externally as an ointment, made from the bruised herb with fresh lard, applied locally night and morning, or in the form of poultices, fomentations, or in suppositories. </div> <div> A most excellent ointment has been recommended for external abscesses, etc., made from Pilewort, Elder-buds, House-leek, and leaves of the Broad Plantain, prepared in the early spring, when the Pilewort is in flower. </div> <div> The roots are highly valued as a medicine in Cochin-China.</div> <div>  <A NAME="rec_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> RECIPES</div> <div> The following old-time recipes connected with this herb occur in <I>A Plain Plantain</I> (R. G. Alexander): </div> <div>  <A NAME="recsor"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---For a Sore Throat---</B> </div> <div> 'Take a pinte of whitewine, A good handful of Sallendine, and boile them well together; put to it A piece of the best Roach Allome, sweeten it with English honey, and use it.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="recmar"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---A Marvellous Precious Water---</B> </div> <div> 'Take Gallingall (Galingale), Cloves, Cubibs, Ginger, Mellilote, Cardamonia, Maces, Nutmegs, one dram- of the juice of Salendine, 8 drams; mingle all these made in powder with the said juice and a pint of Aquavitae, and 3 pints of Whitewine; putt itt into A Stillitory of Glass; and the next day still it with An easy fire. </div> <div> 'This water is of an excellent Virtue Agst A Consumption or any other Disease that proceeds from Rheume Choller or Fleagnie.' </div> <div> All the species of <I>Ranunculus</I>, except the Water Crowfoot, are acrid, and before the introduction of Cantharides (Spanish Fly), many, especially <I>R. sceleratus</I>, were used as vesicatories. They are said to act with less pain and without any action on the urinary passages, but their action is supposed to be uncertain, and they are accused of frequently leaving ill-conditioned ulcers. Since the introduction of Cantharides, their employment has therefore fallen into disuse. Formerly it was not at all uncommon for beggars to produce sores about their bodies by the medium of various species of <I>Ranunculus</I>, for the sake of getting alms, afterwards curing these sores by applying fresh Mullein leaves to heal them. </div> <div> Pliny tells us that: </div> <div> 'they raise blisters like those caused by fire, hence the plant is used for the removal of leprous spots. They form an ingredient in all caustic preparations.' </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>BUTTERCUP</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>CROWFOOT, CELERY-LEAVED</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>CROWFOOT, UPRIGHT MEADOW</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Celery (Wild)</div> <div> Botanical: Apium graveolens (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Smallage. Wild Celery. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Ripe seeds, herb and root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Levant, South Europe, and cultivated in Great Britain, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_26"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Odour characteristic and agreeable. Taste, aromatic, warm, and slightly pungent. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_23"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Celery seed contains two oils - one heavy, the other lighter; it also contains apiol, but not so much as is found in parsley. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_26"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Carminative stimulant, diuretic, tonic, nervine, useful in hysteria, promoting restfulness and sleep, and diffusing through the system a mild sustaining influence. Good combined with Scutellaria for nervous cases with loss of tone. On this account it is recommended to eat the <I>cultivated</I> fresh root as well as taking the oil or fluid extract. Is said to be very good for rheumatism, when it is often combined with Coca, Damiana, etc. Dose: fluid extract, 3 to 7 drops every four hours. </div> <bR> <div> Centaury</div> <div> Botanical: Erythraea centaurium (PERS.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Gentianaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Centaury Gentian. Century. Red Centaury. Filwort. Centory. Christ's Ladder. Feverwort. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Herb and leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>The plant is a native of Europe and North Africa. Though common in this country in dry pastures and on chalky cliffs, it cannot be easily reared in a garden, and for its medicinal use is, therefore, collected in the wild state. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_27"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The Red Centaury (<I>Erythraea centaurium</I>, Pers.) is an annual, with a yellowish, fibrous, woody root, the stem stiff, square and erect, 3 to 12 inches in height, often branching considerably at the summit. The leaves are of a pale green colour, smooth and shiny, their margins undivided. The lowest leaves are broader than the others, oblong or wedge-shaped, narrowed at the base, blunt at the end and form a spreading tuft at the base of the plant, while the stalkless stem-leaves are pointed and lance-shaped, growing in pairs opposite to one another at somewhat distant intervals on the stalk, which is crowned by flat tufts (corymbs) of rose-coloured, star-like flowers, with five-cleft corollas. The stamens are five in number: the anthers have a curious way of twisting themselves round after they have shed their pollen, this being one of the distinctive points between the plants of this genus and those of the genus <I>Gentiana</I>, with which it has much in common, having by some earlier botanists been assigned to that genus, under the name of <I>Gentiana centaurium</I>, or Centaury Gentian. The flowers open only in fine weather and not after mid-day: Gerard chronicles their love of light, saying that they 'in the day-time and after the sun is up, do open themselves and towards evening do shut up again.' A variety is sometimes found with white corollas. </div> <div> Centaury varies a great deal according to) its situation, and some botanists enumerate several distinct species, namely: <I>E. pulchella</I> (Dwarf Centaury), a minute plant, 2 to 8 inches high, with an exceedingly slender stem and a few stalked flowers (often only one); this is found on the sandy seashore, especially in the West of England, and has been picked at Newquay, Cornwall; <I>E. littoralis</I> (Dwarf Tufted Centaury), a stunted plant, with broad leaves, and flowers crowded into a kind of head; this occurs on turfy sea-cliffs, and <I>E. latifolia</I> (Broadleaved Centaury), which has even broader leaves than the last, and bears its flowers in forked tufts, the main stem being divided into three branches. There are other minute differences, for which the student may consult more scientific works. </div> <div> Besides the English species, others from the south of Europe, the Azores, etc., with yellow or pink flowers, are occasionally grown in gardens. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>The name of the genus to which it is at present assigned, <I>Erythraea</I>, is derived from the Greek <I>erythros</I> (red), from the colour of the flowers. The genus was formerly called <I>Chironia</I>, from the Centaur Chiron, who was famous in Greek mythology for his skill in medicinal herbs, and is supposed to have cured himself with it from a wound he had accidentally received from an arrow poisoned with the blood of the hydra. The English name Centaury has the same origin. The ancients named the plant <I>Fel Terrae</I>, or Gall of the Earth from its extreme bitterness. The old Engiish name of Felwort is equivalent in meaning to this, and is applied to all the plants of the Gentian family. It is also thought to be the 'Graveolentia Centaurea' of Virgil, to which Lucretius gives the more significant epithet of <I>tristia</I>, in reference to this same intense bitterness. As this bitterness had a healing and tonic effect attributed to it, we sometimes find the Centaury called Febrifuga and Feverwort. It is known popularly also as Christ's Ladder, and the name Centaury has become corrupted in Worcestershire to 'Centre of the Sun.' </div> <div> We find a reference to it in <I>Le Petit Albert</I>. Fifteen magical herbs of the Ancients are given: </div> <div> 'The eleventh hearbe is named of the Chaldees, Isiphon . . . of Englishmen, Centory . . . this herbe hath a marvellous virtue, for if it be joined with the blood of a female lapwing, or black plover, and put with oile in a lamp, all that compass it about shall believe themselves to be witches, so that one shall believe of another that his head is in heaven and his feete on earth; and if the aforesaid thynge be put in the fire when the starres shine it shall appeare yt the sterres runne one agaynste another and fyghte.' (English translation, 1619.) </div> <div> Also in a translation of an old mediaeval Latin poem of the tenth century, by Macer, there is mention of Centaury (with other herbs) as being powerful against 'wykked sperytis.' </div> <div> Of all the bitter appetizing wild herbs which serve as excellent simple tonics, the Centaury is the most efficacious, sharing the antiseptic virtues of the Field Gentian and the Buckbean. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used---</B>The whole herb, collected in July, when just breaking into flower and dried. The plant has a slight odour, which disappears when dried. </div> <div> The Field Gentian is dried in the same manner. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_24"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Centaury contains a bitter principle, Erythro-centaurin, which is colourless, crystalline, non-nitrogenous, reddened by sunlight; a bitter glucoside, Erytaurin; Valeric acid, wax, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_27"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Aromatic bitter, stomachic and tonic. It acts on the liver and kidneys, purifies the blood, and is an excellent tonic. </div> <div> The dried herb is given in infusion or powder, or made into an extract. It is used extensively in dyspepsia, for languid digestion with heartburn after food, in an infusion of 1 OZ. of the dried herb to 1 pint of water. When run down and suffering from want of appetite, a wineglassful of this infusion Centaury Tea - taken three or four times daily, half an hour before meals, is found of great benefit. The same infusion may also be taken for muscular rheumatism. </div> <div> Culpepper tells us that: </div> <div> 'the herbe is so safe that you cannot fail in the using of it, only give it inwardly for inward diseases, use it outwardly for outward diseases. 'Tis very wholesome, but not very toothsome.' </div> <div> He says: </div> <div> 'it helps those that have the dropsy, or the green-sickness, being much used by the Italians in powder for that purpose. It kills worms ... as is found by experience.... A dram of the powder taken in wine, is a wonderful good help against the biting and poison of an adder. The juice of the herb with a little honey put to it, is good to clear the eyes from dimness, mists and clouds that offend or hinder sight. It is singularly good both for green and fresh wounds, as also for old ulcers and sores, to close up the one and cleanse the other, and perfectly to cure them both, although they are hollow or fistulous; the green herb, especially, being bruised and laid thereto. The decoction thereof dropped into the ears, cleanses them from worms . . . and takes away all freckles, spots, and marks in the skin, being washed with it.' </div> <div> The Saxon herbalists prescribed it largely for snake-bites and other poisons, and it was long celebrated for the cure of intermittent fevers, hence its name of Feverwort. </div> <div> The herb formed the basis of the once famous Portland Powder, which was said to be a specific for gout. </div> <div> Centaury is given with Barberry Bark for jaundice. It has also been much employed as a vermifuge, and a decoction of the plant is said to destroy body vermin. </div> <div> The green herb, bruised, is reputed to be good as an application to wounds and sores. </div> <bR> <div> Centaury, Chilian</div> <div> Botanical: Erythraea chilensis </div> <div> Family: N.O. Gentianaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Canchalagua. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Chile. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_28"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A small, herbaceous plant, with branched stems and pink or yellow flowers, widely used in Chile as a mild tonic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_28"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stimulant bitter, tonic. Useful in dyspepsia and indigestion. An infusion may be made of 1 oz. to 1 pint of boiling water. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>Of infusion - a wineglassful. Of fluid extract - 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Erythraea acaulis</I>, a native of Southern Algeria, has roots that yield a yellow dye. </div> <div> <I>Sabatia angularis</I>, or American Centaury, is a simple bitter used as a tonic and antiperiodic, in doses of 1 drachm of fluid extract or decoction of the whole plant. It has been found to contain a small proportion of Erythrocentaurin. The root of <I>S. Elliottii</I> is used in a similar manner in the south-eastern United States, and the whole plant of <I>S. campestris</I> in the south-western. <I>S. Elliottii</I> is known as the Quinine Flower, its properties resembling quinine. </div> <bR> <div> Cereus, Night Blooming</div> <div> Botanical: Cereus grandiflorus (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Cactaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages and Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Vanilla Cactus. Sweet-scented Cactus. Large-flowered Cactus. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>The flowers, young and tender stems. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Tropical America, Mexico, West Indies, and Naples. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_29"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A fleshy, creeping, rooting shrub, stems cylindrical, with five or six not very prominent angles, branching armed with clusters of small spines, in radiated forms. Flowers, terminal and lateral from the clusters of spines, very large 8 to 12 inches in diameter, expanding in the evening and only lasting for about six hours, exhaling a delicious vanilla-like perfume. Petals are white, spreading, shorter than the sepals, which are linear, lanceolate, outside brown, inside yellow. Fruit ovate, covered with scaly tubercles, fleshy and of a lovely orange-red colour, seeds very small and acid. The flower only lasts in bloom about six hours and does not revive- when withered, the ovary enlarges, becomes pulpy and forms an acid juicy fruit, something like a gooseberry. The plant was brought to the notice of the medical profession by Dr. Scheile but it aroused little interest till a homoeopathic doctor of Naples, R. Rubini, used it as a specific in heart disease. The flowers and young stems should be collected in July and a tincture made from them whilst fresh. The plant contains a milky acrid juice. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_25"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>No special analysis seems yet to have been made; the chief constituents are resins, the presence of the alleged alkaloid cactine not having been confirmed. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_29"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic Sedative, Cardiac. Cereus has been used as a cardiac stimulant and as a partial substitute for digitalis. In large doses it produces gastric irritation, slight delirium, hallucinations and general mental confusion. It is said to greatly increase the renal secretion. It does not appear to weaken the nervous system. It has a decided action on the heart and frequently gives prompt relief in functional or organic disease. It has been found of some service in haemoptysis, dropsy and incipient apoplexy. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages and Preparations---</B>Liquid extract of Cereus, B.P.C.: dose, 1 to 10 minims. Tincture of Cereus, B.P.C.: dose, 2 to 30 minims. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Cactus bomplandi</I>, a cardiac stimulant notnow used. <I>Cereus caespitosus</I>. An alkaloid separated from this variety, called Pectenine, produces tetanus convulsions in animals. <I>C. pilocereus</I> gives an alkaloid which produces central paralysis with great cardiac depression in frogs and death by cardiac arrest in warm-blooded animals. </div> <div> <I>C. flagelliformis</I> and C<I>. divaricatus</I> are said to have anthelmintic properties. </div> <div> <I>Opuntias decumana</I> and other species are often substituted for <I>C. grandiflorus</I>, but are of little use. <I>C. giganteus</I>, the Suwarron or Saguaro of the Mexicans, is the largest, and most striking species of the genus. The fruits are 2 to 3 inches long, oval and green, having a broad scar at the top caused by the flowers falling away when the fruits are ripe. They burst into three or four pieces, which curve back to resemble a flower. Inside they contain small black seeds embedded in a crimson pulp, which the Pimos and Papagos Indians make into an excellent preserve. They also eat the ripe fruit as a food and gather it by means of a forked stick tied to the end of a long pole. </div> <div> <I>Opuntia vulgaris</I> (Prickly Pear), of the Cactus tribe, is cultivated in the south of Europe, and much esteemed by the Spaniards, who consume large quantities. In homoeopathy a tincture is made from the flowers and wood for spleen troubles and diarrhoea. </div> <div> <I>O. cochinellifera</I>, the Cochineal Insect Cactus, is a native of Mexico, but cultivated in the West Indies and other places. There are two kinds of <I>O. grana</I> - finagrana and sylvestre. The substance which envelops the insect is pulverulent in the first species and flocculent in the second. It has not yet been decided whether they are different species of COCCUS or whether the difference is in the plant. </div> <bR> <div> Chamomiles</div> <div> Botanical: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chamomile, Common</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chamomile, German</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chamomile, Stinking</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>There are a number of species of Chamomile spread over Europe, North Africa and the temperate region of Asia, but in Great Britain we have four growing wild: the sweet-scented, true Chamomile (<I>Anthemis nobilis</I>); the Fcetid Chamomile or Stinking Mayweed (<I>A. cotula</I>), which has what Gerard calls 'a naughty smell'; the Corn Chamomile (<I>A. arvensis</I>), which flowers rather earlier and is noticeable because its ray florets are empty and wholly for show and possess no sort of ovary or style, and fourthly, the Yellow Chamomile, with yellow instead of white rays, which is found sometimes on ballast heaps, but is not a true native. </div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="com"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> Chamomile, Common</div> <bR> <div> Botanical: Anthemis nobilis (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Parts Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation and Preparation for Market</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chemical Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Manzanilla (Spanish). Maythen (Saxon). </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Flowers and herb. </div> <div> Chamomile is one of the oldest favourites amongst garden herbs and its reputation as a medicinal plant shows little signs of abatement. The Egyptians reverenced it for its virtues, and from their belief in its power to cure ague, dedicated it to their gods. No plant was better known to the country folk of old, it having been grown for centuries in English gardens for its use as a common domestic medicine to such an extent that the old herbals agree that 'it is but lost time and labour to describe it.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="comdes"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The true or Common Chamomile (<I>Anthemis nobilis</I>) is a low-growing plant, creeping or trailing, its tufts of leaves and flowers a foot high. The root is perennial, jointed and fibrous, the stems, hairy and freely branching, are covered with leaves which are divided into thread-like segments, the fineness of which gives the whole plant a feathery appearance. The blooms appear in the later days of summer, from the end of July to September, and are borne solitary on long, erect stalks, drooping when in bud. With their outer fringe of white ray-florets and yellow centres, they are remarkably like the daisy. There are some eighteen white rays arranged round a conical centre, botanically known as the receptacle, on which the yellow, tubular florets are placed- the centre of the daisy is, however, considerably flatter than that of the Chamomile. </div> <div> All the Chamomiles have a tiny, chaffy scale between each two florets, which is very minute and has to be carefully looked for but which all the same is a vital characteristic of the genus <I>Anthemis</I>. The distinction between <I>A. nobilis</I> and other species of <I>Anthemis</I> is the shape of these scales, which in <I>A. nobilis</I> are short and blunt. </div> <div> The fruit is small and dry, and as it forms, the hill of the receptacle gets more and more conical. </div> <div> The whole plant is downy and greyishgreen in colour. It prefers dry commons and sandy soil, and is found wild in Cornwall, Surrey, and many other parts of England. </div> <div> Small flies are the chief insect-visitors to the flowers. </div> <div>  <A NAME="comhis"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>The fresh plant is strongly and agreeably aromatic, with a distinct scent of apples - a characteristic noted by the Greeks, on account of which they named it 'ground-apple' - <I>kamai</I> (on the ground) and <I>melon</I> (an apple) - the origin of the name Chamomile. The Spaniards call it 'Manzanilla,' which signifies 'a little apple,' and give the same name to one of their lightest sherries, flavoured with this plant. </div> <div> When walked on, its strong, fragrant scent will often reveal its presence before it is seen. For this reason it was employed as one of the aromatic strewing herbs in the Middle Ages, and used often to be purposely planted in green walks in gardens. Indeed walking over the plant seems specially beneficial to it. </div> <div> 'Like a camomile bed - </div> <div> The more it is trodden </div> <div> The more it will spread,' </div> <div> The aromatic fragrance gives no hint of its bitterness of taste. </div> <div> The Chamomile used in olden days to be looked upon as the 'Plant's Physician,' and it has been stated that nothing contributes so much to the health of a garden as a number of Chamomile herbs dispersed about it, and that if another plant is drooping and sickly, in nine cases out of ten, it will recover if you place a herb of Chamomile near it. </div> <div>  <A NAME="compar"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Parts Used Medicinally---</B>The whole plant is odoriferous and of value, but the quality is chiefly centred in the flower-heads or capitula, the part employed medicinally, the herb itself being used in the manufacture of herb beers. </div> <div> Both single and double flowers are used in medicine. It is considered that the curative properties of the single, wild Chamomile are the more powerful, as the chief medical virtue of the plant lies in the central disk of yellow florets, and in the cultivated double form the white florets of the ray are multiplied, while the yellow centre diminishes. The powerful alkali contained to so much greater extent in the single flowers is, however, liable to destroy the coating of the stomach and bowels, and it is doubtless for this reason that the British Pharmacopceia directs that the 'official' dried Chamomile flowers shall be those of the double, cultivated variety. </div> <div> The double-flowered form was already well known in the sixteenth century. It was introduced into Germany from Spain about the close of the Middle Ages. </div> <div> Chamomile was largely cultivated before the war in Belgium, France and Saxony and also in England, chiefly in the famous herbgrowing district of Mitcham. English flowerheads are considered the most valuable for distillation of the oil, and during the war the price of English and foreign Chamomile reached an exorbitant figure. </div> <div> The 'Scotch Chamomile' of commerce is the Single or Wild Chamomile, the yellow tubular florets in the centre of the head being surrounded by a variable number of white, ligulate or strap-shaped ray florets. The 'English Chamomile' is the double form, with all or nearly all the florets white and ligulate. In both forms the disk or receptacle is solid and conical, densely covered with chaffy scales, and both varieties, but especially the single, have a strong aromatic odour and a very bitter taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="comcul"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation and Preparation for Market---</B>Chamomile requires a sunny situation. The single variety, being the wild type, flourishes in a rather dry, sandy soil, the conditions of its natural habits on wild, open common-land, but the double-flowered Chamomile needs a richer soil and gives the heaviest crop of blooms in moist, stiffish black loam. </div> <div> Propagation may be effected by seed, sown thinly in May in the open and transplanting when the seedlings are large enough to permanent quarters, but this is not to be recommended, as it gives a large proportion of single-flowered plants, which, as stated above, do not now rank for pharmaceutical purposes as high as the double-flowered variety, though formerly they were considered more valuable. </div> <div> The usual manner of increasing stock to ensure the double-flowers is from 'sets,' or runners of the old plants. Each plant normally produces from twelve to fourteen sets, but may sometimes give as many as from twenty-five to fifty. The old plants are divided up into their sets in March and a new plantation formed in well-manured soil, in rows 2 1/2 feet apart, with a distance of 18 inches between the plants. Tread the small plants in firmly, it will not hurt them, but make them root better. Keep them clean during the summer by hand-weeding, as hoeing is apt to destroy such little plants. They will require no further attention till the flowers are expanded and the somewhat tedious process of picking commences. </div> <div> In autumn, the sets may be more readily rooted by placing a ring of good light soil about 2 or 3 inches from the centre of the old plant and pressing it down slightly. </div> <div>  <A NAME="comche"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Chemical Constituents---</B>The active principles are a volatile oil, of a pale bluecolour (becoming yellow by keeping), a little Anthemic acid (the bitter principle), tannic acid and a glucoside. </div> <div> The volatile oil is yielded by distillation, but is lost in the preparation of the extract. Boiling also dissipates the oil. </div> <div>  <A NAME="commed"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Tonic, achic, anodyne and antispasmodic. The official preparations are a decoction, an infusion, the extract and the oil. </div> <div> The infusion, made from 1 OZ. of the flowers to 1 pint of boiling water and taken in doses of a tablespoonful to a wineglass, known popularly as Chamomile Tea, is an old-fashioned but extremely efficacious remedy for hysterical and nervous affections in women and is used also as an emmenagogue. It has a wonderfully soothing, sedative and absolutely harmless effect. It is considered a preventive and the sole certain remedy for nightmare. It will cut short an attack of delirium tremens in the early stage. It has sometimes been employed in intermittent fevers. </div> <div> Chamomile Tea should in all cases be prepared in a covered vessel, in order to prevent the escape of steam, as the medicinal value of the flowers is to a considerable extent impaired by any evaporation, and the infusion should be allowed to stand on the flowers for 10 minutes at least before straining off. </div> <div> Combined with ginger and alkalies, the cold infusion (made with 1/2 oz. of flowers to 1 pint of water) proves an excellent stomachic in cases of ordinary indigestion, such as flatulent colic, heartburn, loss of appetite, sluggish state of the intestinal canal, and also in gout and periodic headache, and is an appetizing tonic, especially for aged persons, taken an hour or more before a principal meal. A strong, warm infusion is a useful emetic. A concentrated infusion, made eight times as strong as the ordinary infusion, is made from the powdered flowers with oil of chamomile and alcohol and given as a stomachic in doses of 1/2 to 2 drachms, three times daily. </div> <div> Chamomile flowers are recommended as a tonic in dropsical complaints for their diuretic and tonic properties, and are also combined with diaphoretics and other stimulants with advantage. </div> <div> An official tincture is employed to correct summer diarrhoea in children. Chamomile is used with purgatives to prevent griping, carminative pills being made from the essential essence of the flowers. The extract, in doses of 10 to 15 grains, combined with myrrh and preparations of iron, also affords a powerful and convenient tonic in the form of a pill. The fluid extract of flowers is taken in doses of from 1/2 to 1 drachm; the oil, B.P. dose, 1/2 to 3 drops. </div> <div> Apart from their employment internally, Chamomile flowers are also extensively used by themselves, or combined with an equal quantity of crushed poppy-heads, as a poultice and fomentation for external swelling, inflammatory pain or congested neuralgia, and will relieve where other remedies have failed, proving invaluable for reducing swellings of the face caused through abscesses. Bags may be loosely stuffed withflowers and steeped well in boiling water before being applied as a fomentation. The antiseptic powers of Chamomile are stated to be 120 times stronger than sea-water. A decoction of Chamomile flowers and poppyheads is used hot as fomentation to abscesses - 10 parts of Chamomile flowers to 5 of poppy capsules, to 100 of distilled water. </div> <div> The <I>whole herb</I> is used chiefly for making herb beers, but also for a lotion, for external application in toothache, earache, neuralgia, etc. One ounce of the dried herb is infused in 1 pint of boiling water and allowed to cool. The herb has also been employed in hot fomentations in cases of local and intestinal inflammation. </div> <div> Culpepper gives a long list of complaints for which Chamomile is 'profitable,' from agues and sprains to jaundice and dropsy, stating that 'the flowers boiled in Iye are good to wash the head,' and tells us that bathing with a decoction of Chamomile removes weariness and eases pain to whatever part of the body it is employed. Parkinson, in his <I>Earthly Paradise</I> (1656), writes: </div> <div> 'Camomil is put to divers and sundry users, both for pleasure and profit, both for the sick and the sound, in bathing to comfort and strengthen the sound and to ease pains in the diseased.' </div> <div> Turner says: </div> <div> 'It hath floures wonderfully shynynge yellow and resemblynge the appell of an eye . . . the herbe may be called in English, golden floure. It will restore a man to hys color shortly yf a man after the longe use of the bathe drynke of it after he is come forthe oute of the bathe. This herbe is scarce in Germany but in England it is so plenteous that it groweth not only in gardynes but also VIII mile above London, it groweth in the wylde felde, in Rychmonde grene, in Brantfurde grene.... Thys herbe was consecrated by the wyse men of Egypt unto the Sonne and was rekened to be the only remedy of all agues.' </div> <div> The dried flowers of <I>A. nobilis</I> are used for blond dyeing, and a variety of Chamomile known as Lemon Chamomile yields a very fine essential oil. </div> <div> <U>Top of document. </U></div> <div> <U>Top of Chamomile, Common</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="ger"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> Chamomile, German</div> <div> Botanical: Matricaria chamomilla (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Wild Chamomile. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Flowers. </div> <div> The German Chamomile, sometimes called the Wild Chamomile, has flower-heads about 3/4 inch broad, with about fifteen white, strap shaped, reflexed ray florets and numeroustubular yellow, perfect florets. It is frequent in cornfields and so remarkably like the Corn Chamomile (<I>Anthemis arvensis</I>) that it is often difficult to distinguish it from that plant, but it is not ranked among the true Chamomiles by botanists because it does not possess the little chaffy scales or bracts between its florets; also the conical receptacle, or disk, on which the florets are arranged is hollow, not solid, like that of the Corn Chamomile. It may also be distinguished from <I>A. cotula</I> and <I>Matricaria inodora</I>, the Mayweeds, by the lapping-over scales of its involucre surrounding the base of the flower-head not being chaffy at the margin, as in those species. It has a strong smell, somewhat like that of the official Common Chamomile (<I>A. nobilis</I>), but less aromatic, whereas the Corn Chamomile which it so closely resembles is scentless. </div> <div>  <A NAME="gercon"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The flowers of the German Chamomile, though aromatic, have a very bitter taste. They contain a volatile oil, a bitter extractive and little tannic acid. </div> <div>  <A NAME="germed"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Carminative, sedative and tonic. The infusion of 1/2 oz. of the dried flowers to 1 pint of boiling water may be given freely in teaspoonful doses to children, for whose ailments it is an excellent remedy. It acts as a nerve sedative and also as a tonic upon the gastro-intestinal canal. It proves useful during dentition in cases of earache, neuralgic pain, stomach disorders and infantile convulsions. The flowers may also be used externally as a fomentation. </div> <div>  <A NAME="gerpre"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract: dose, 1/4 to 1 drachm. </div> <div> <U>Top of document. </U></div> <div> <U>Top of Chamomile, German</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="sti"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> Chamomile Stinking</div> <div> Botanical: Anthemis cotula (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Mayweed. Maruta Cotula. Dog Chamomile. Maruta Foetida. Dog-Fennel. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Whole herb. </div> <div> Stinking Chamomile or Stinking Mayweed (<I>Anthemis cotula</I>), an annual, common in waste places, resembles the true Chamomile, having large solitary flowers on erect stems, with conical, solid receptacles, but the white florets have no membraneous scales at their base. It is distinguished from the other Chamomiles and closely allied genera by its foetid odour, which Gerard calls '<I>a naughty smell</I>.' This disagreeable smell, and the resemblance to fennel of its much-cut leaves gains it its other name of 'Dog's Fennel.' The whole plant, not only the flowers, has this intense odour and is penetrated by an acrid juice that often will blister the hand which gathers it. Writers on toxicology have classed this plant amongst the vegetable poisons. </div> <div>  <A NAME="stimed"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Tonic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue and emetic. </div> <div> The whole herb is used (for drying, see <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>FEVERFEW</U></FONT>). Like true Chamomile, a strong decoction will produce vomiting and sweating. In America it is used in country districts as a sudorific in colds and chronic rheumatism. The infusion made from 1 OZ. of the dried herb in a pint of boiling water and taken warm in wineglassful doses has been used with success in sick headache and in convalescence from fevers. It was formerly used in scrofula and hysteria and externally in fomentations. A weaker infusion taken to a moderate extent acts as an emetie. </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>FEVERFEW (CORN)</U></FONT> and <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>PELLITORY</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Chaste Tree</div> <div> Botanical: Agnus castus </div> <div> Family: N.O. Verbenaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The ripe berries. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Shores of the Mediterranean. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_30"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A deciduous shrub of free spreading habit, young shoots covered with a fine grey down; leaves opposite, composed of five to seven radiating leaflets borne on a main stalk 1 to 2 1/2 inches long, leaflets linear, lance-shaped, toothed, dark green above, grey beneath with a very close felt; stalks of leaflets 1/4 inch or less long- flowers fragrant, produced in September or October, in whorls on slender racemes 3 to 6 inches long, sometimes branched; the berries somewhat like peppercorns, dark purple, halfcovered by their sage-green calyces, yellowish within, hard, having an aromatic odour; taste warm, peculiar. The seeds were once held in repute for securing chastity, and the Athenian matrons in the sacred rites of Ceres used to string their couches with the leaves. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_30"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The fresh ripe berries are pounded to a pulp and used in the form of a tincture for the relief of paralysis, pains in the limbs, weakness, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B><I>Vitex trifolia</I>, the three-leaved Chaste Tree, has similar properties. </div> <bR> <div> Chaulmoogra</div> <div> Botanical: Taraktogenos kurzii (KING) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Bixaceae </div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Chaulmugra. Chaulmogra. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The oil from the seeds. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_31"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Seeds are ovoid, irregular and angular, 1 to 1 1/4 inches long, 1 inch wide, skin smooth, grey, brittle; kernel oily and dark brown. A fatty oil is obtained by expression, known officially as Gynocardia oil in Britain, as Oleum Chaulmoograe in the U.S.A. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_26"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The oil contains chaulmoogric acid and palmitic acid, and the fatty oil has been found to yield glycerol, a very small quantity of phytosterol and a mixture of fatty acids. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_31"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Employed internally and externally in the treatment of skin diseases, scrofula, rheumatism, eczema, also in leprosy, as a counterirritant for bruises, sprains, etc., and sometimes applied to open wounds and sores. Also used in veterinary practice. Dose of oil, 5 or 10 to 60 minims. Gynocardia Ointment, I.C.A. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B>The seeds of <I>Gynocardia</I> odorata have been erroneously given as the source of the oil. </div> <div> Some of the commercial oil on the market probably comes from the allied species <I>Hydnocarpus</I>. </div> <bR> <div> Cheken</div> <div> Botanical: Eugenia cheken (MOL.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Myrtaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Arryan. Myrtus Chekan. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Chile. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_32"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The flowers grow in the axils of the leathery leaves, white with a fourparted calyx, four petals and numerous stamens; the berry is crowned by the calyx, one or two-celled, containing one or two seeds. The leaves nearly sessile, oval, 1 inch long, smooth, slightly wrinkled, aromatic, astringent, and bitter. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_27"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Volatile oil, tannin and four principles, viz. Chekenon, Chekenin, Chekenetin, and Cheken bitter, an amorphous, soluble bitter substance. The virtues of the leaves appear to be in the volatile oil they contain and in their tannin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_32"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Most useful in the chronic bronchitis of elderly people and in chronic catarrh of the respiratory organs. Dose: Fluid extract, 1 to 2. fluid drachms. </div> <bR> <div> Chenopodiums</div> <div> Family: N.O. Chenopodiaceae</div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Goosefoots. Wormseeds. Spinach. Glassworts. Sea Beets. </div> <div> The <I>Chenopodiaceae</I>, or Goosefoot order, is a large family of homely and more or less succulent herbs-common weeds in most temperate climates, usually growing on the seashore and on salt marshes and on waste or cultivated ground. </div> <div> The tribe derives its distinctive name from the Greek words, <I>chen</I> (a goose) and <I>pous</I> (a foot), in allusion to the supposed resemblance borne by the leaves of most of its members to the webbed feet of the goose. The leaves are entire, lobed or toothed, often more or less triangular in shape. </div> <div> The minute flowers - which are wind fertilized - are without petals, bisexual and borne in dense axillary or terminal clusters or spikes. The small fruit is membraneous and one-seeded, often enclosed by the persistent calyx, which frequently is inflated. </div> <div> Most of these plants contain large quantities of iron in the form of digestible organic compounds and many of the species provide soda in abundance. </div> <div> Ten species of <I>Chenopodium</I> occur in Britain, one of which, <I>C. Bonus-Henricus</I>, has been much cultivated as a pot-herb, under the name of English Mercury and All Good. The Garden Orache and the Arrach, the Sea Beet and the Glassworts are other native plants belonging to this large family, which has about 600 members. </div> <div> The seeds of <I>C. Quinoa</I> (Linn.), of the Andean region of South America, there constitute the staple and principal food of millions of the native inhabitants. </div> <div> Quinoa is a perennial, indigenous to the high tableland of the Cordilleras, where, at the conquest by the Spaniards, it was the only farinaceous grain used as food. The plant is from 4 to 6 feet high and has many angular branches, dull glaucous leaves, of a triangular outline on long, narrow stalks, and flowers forming large, compact, branched heads and succeeded by minute, strong, flat seeds, of a black, white or red colour. </div> <div> The <I>Quinoa</I> has been introduced into Europe, but though large crops have been grown in France, the grain has an unpleasant acrid taste and will hardly be used as human food when anything better can be got, though the leaves make a pleasant vegetable, like spinach. </div> <div> But in Peru, Chile and Bolivia, Quinoa is largely cultivated for its nutritious seeds, which are produced in great abundance and are made into soup and bread, and when fermented with millet, make a kind of beer. They are called 'Little Rice.' </div> <div> The seeds are prepared by boiling in water, like rice or oatmeal, a kind of gruel being the result, which is seasoned with Chile pepper and other condiments; or the grains are slightly roasted, like coffee, boiled in water and strained, the brown-coloured broth thus prepared being seasoned as in the first process. This second preparation is called Carapulque, and is said to be a favourite dish with the ladies of Lima, but, as already stated, in whatever way prepared, Quinoa is unpalatable to strangers, though it is probably a nutritious article of food, due to the amount of albumen it contains. </div> <div> Two varieties are cultivated, one producing very pale seeds, called the White or Sweet variety, which is that used as food, and a dark-red fruited one, called the Red Quinoa. Both kinds contain an amaroid (or bitter substance), in specially large amounts in the bitter variety, which is reputed anthelmintic and emetic. By repeated washings, the substance is removed and the seeds can then be used as a food, like the 'sweet' variety. </div> <div> A sweetened decoction of the fruit is used medicinally, as an application to sores and bruises, and cataplasms are also made from it. </div> <div> The grain is said to be excellent for poultry and the plant itself to form good green food for cattle. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>ARRACHS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>BEETS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>BLITES</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>CLIVERS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>GLASSWORTS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>GOOSEFOOTS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SPINACH</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WORMSEED, AMERICAN</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WORMSEED, LAVANT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Cherry Laurel</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Prunus laurocerasus (LINN,) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rosaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Asia Minor; cultivated in Europe. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_33"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A small evergreen tree rising 15 to 20 feet, with long, spreading branches which, like the trunk, are covered with a smooth blackish bark. Leaves oval, oblong, petiolate, from 5 to 7 inches in length, acute, finely toothed, firm, coriaceous, smooth, beautifully green and shiny, with oblique nerves and yellowish glands at the base. Flowers small, white, strongly odorous, disposed in simple axillary racemes. Fruit an oval drupe, similar in shape and structure to a blackcherry, the odour of hydrocyanic acid may be detected in almost all parts of the tree and especially in the leaves when bruised. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_28"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Prulaurasin (laurocerasin) is the chief constituent of the leaves. This has been obtained in long, slender, acicular, bitter crystals, closely resembling amygdalin, but not identical with it. The leaves yield an average of 0.1 per cent of hydrocyanic acid, young leaves yielding more than the </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_33"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Sedative, narcotic. The leaves possess qualities similar to those of hydrocyanic acid, and the water distilled from them is used for the same purpose as that medicine. Of value in coughs, whooping-cough, asthma, and in dyspepsia and indigestion. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>Cherry Laurel Water, B.P., 1/2 to 2 fluid drachms. </div> <bR> <div> Cherry Stalks</div> <div> Botanical: Prunus avium and Other Species (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rosaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Fruit stalks. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Britain, Clermond Ferrand in France, and other parts of the Continent. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_34"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The fruit stalks of all species are used, their distinctive characteristics are stalks 1 3/4 inch long, very thin and enlarged at one end. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_34"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Astringent, tonic. Used in bronchial complaints anaemia, and for looseness of bowels, in the form of an infusion or decoction. 1/2 oz. of the stalks to a pint of water. </div> <bR> <div> Cherry, Wild</div> <div> Botanical: Prunus serotina (EHRL.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rosaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Adulterant</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Virginian Prune. Black Cherry. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Bark of root, trunk and branches. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>North America generally, especially in Northern and Central States. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_35"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>This tree grows from 50 to 80 feet high, and 2 to 4 feet in diameter. The bark is black and rough and separates naturally from the trunk. Wood polishes well, as it is fine-grained and compact, hence it is much used by cabinet-makers. Leaves deciduous, 3 to 5 inches long, about 2 inches wide, on petioles which have two pairs of reddish glands, they are obovate, acuminate, with incurved short teeth, thickish and smooth and glossy on upper surface; flowers bloom in May, and are white, in erect long terminal racemes, with occasional solitary flowers in the axils of the leaves. Fruit about the size of a pea, purply-black, globular drupe, edible with bitterish taste, is ripe in August and September. The tree is most abundant and grows to its full size in the south-western States. The root-bark is of most value, but that of the trunk and branches is also utilized. This bark must be freshly collected each season as its properties deteriorate greatly if kept longer than a year. It has a short friable fracture and in commerce it is found in varying lengths and widths 1 to 8 inches, slightly curved, outer bark removed, a reddish-fawn colour. These fragments easily powder. It has the odour of almonds, which almost disappears on drying, but is renewed by maceration. Its taste is aromatic, prussic, and bitter. It imparts its virtues to water or alcohol, boiling impairs its medicinal properties. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_29"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Starch, resin, tannin, gallic acid, fatty matter, lignin, red colouring matter, salts of calcium, potassium, and iron, also a volatile oil associated with hydrocyanic acid by distillation of water from the bark </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_35"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Astringent tonic, pectoral, sedative. It has been used in the treatment of bronchitis of various types. Is valuable in catarrh, consumption nervous cough, whooping-cough, and dyspepsia. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Syrup, B.P. and U.S.P., 1 to 4 drachms. Tincture, B.P., 1/2 to 1 drachm. Infusion, U.S.P., 2 oz. Fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 drachm. Prunin, 1 to 3 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="adu_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Adulterant---</B>A spurious cherry bark has been noted which may be distinguished by the fact that no hydrocyanic acid is found when macerated with water. </div> <bR> <div> Cherry, Winter</div> <div> Botanical: Physalis alkekengi (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Solonacea</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Alkekengi officinale. Coqueret. Judenkirsche. Schlutte. Cape Gooseberry. Strawberry Tomato. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>The fruits and the leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Europe. China and Cochin-China. An escape in the United States. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_36"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The name of <I>Physalis</I> is derived from the Greek <I>phusa</I> (a bladder), for the five-cleft calyx greatly increases in size after the corolla falls off, thus enclosing the fruit in a large, leafy bladder. The plant bears smooth, dark-green leaves and yellowish-white flowers. The fruit is a round, red berry, about the size of a cherry, containing numerous flat seeds, kidney-shaped. It will grow freely in any garden, but sufficient is found growing wild for medicinal purposes. </div> <div> The leaves and capsules are the most bitter parts of the plant. The epicarp and calyx include a yellow colouring matter which has been used for butter. </div> <div> The berries are very juicy, with a rather acrid and bitter flavour. In Germany, Spain and Switzerland they are eaten freely, as are other edible fruits. By drying they shrink, and fade to a brownish-red. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_30"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Physalin, a yellowish, bitter principle, has been isolated by extracting an infusion of the plant with chloroform. Lithal is sold as an extract of the berries to which lithium salt has been added. The fruit contains citric acid. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_36"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The berries are aperient and diuretic, are employed in gravel, suppression of urine, etc., and are highly recommended in fevers and in gout. Ray stated that a gouty patient had prevented returns of the disorder by taking eight berries at each change of the moon. Dioscorides claimed that they would cure epilepsy. The country people often use them both for their beasts and for themselves, and especially for the after-effects of scarlet fever. </div> <div> The leaves and stems are used for the malaise that follows malaria, and for weak or anaemic persons they are slightly tonic. A strong dose causes heaviness and constipation, but sometimes they have cured colic followed by diarrhoea. </div> <div> While not so prompt in its action as sulphate of quinine, the powder is a valuablefebrifuge. </div> <div> The leaves, boiled in water, are good for soothing poultices and fomentations. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_16"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>From 6 to 12 berries, or 1/2 an oz. of the expressed juice. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>P. viscosa</I> (Ground Cherry or Yellow Henbane) can be used in a similar manner. </div> <div> <I>P. somnifera</I> is a narcotic. The leaves are used in India, steeped in warm castoroil, as an application to carbuncles and other inflammatory swellings. The seeds are used to coagulate milk. Kunth states that the leaves have been found with Egyptian mummies. </div> <div> The plant sold in pots as Winter Cherry is <I>Solanum pseudo-capsicum</I>. </div> <bR> <div> Chestnut, Horse</div> <div> Botanical: Æsculus hippocastanum </div> <div> Family: N.O. Sapindaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Hippocastanum vulgare (Gaertn.). </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Bark and fruit. </div> <div> The Horse Chestnut, <I>Æsculus hippocastanum</I>, which has also been known as <I>Hippocastanum vulgare</I> (Gaertn.), is an entirely different tree from the Sweet Chestnut, to which it is not even distantly related, and is of much more recent importation to English soil. It is a native of northern and central parts of Asia, from which it was introduced into England about the middle of the sixteenth century. </div> <div> The name <I>Æsculus</I> (from <I>esca</I>, food) was applied originally to a species of oak, which according to Pliny, was highly prized for its acorns, but how it came to be transferred to the Horse Chestnut is very uncertain; perhaps, as Loudon suggests, it was given ironically, because its nuts bear a great resemblance, externally, to those of the Sweet Chestnut, but are unfit for food. <I>Hippocastanum</I> (the specific name of the common sort) is a translation of the common name, which was given - Evelyn tells us - 'from its curing horses brokenwinded and other cattle of coughs.' Some writers think that the prefix 'horse' is a corruption of the Welsh <I>gwres</I>, meaning hot, fierce, or pungent, e.g. 'Horse-chestnut' = the bitter chestnut, in opposition to the mild, sweet one. </div> <div> The tree is chiefly grown for ornamental purposes, in towns and private gardens and in parks, and forms fine avenues, which in the spring, when the trees are in full bloom, present a beautiful sight. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_37"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The trunk of the tree is very erect and columnar, and grows very rapidly to a great height, with widely spreading branches. The bark is smooth and greyishgreen in colour: it has been used with some success in dyeing yellow. The wood, being soft and spongy, is of very little use for timber. </div> <div> It is often used for packing-cases. </div> <div> The sturdy, many-ribbed boughs and thick buds of the Horse Chestnut make it a conspicuous tree even in winter. The buds are protected with a sticky substance: defended by fourteen scales and gummed together, thus no frost or damp can harm the leaf and flower tucked safely away within each terminal bud, which develops with startling rapidity with the approach of the first warm days after the winter. The bud will sometimes develop the season's shoot in the course of three or four weeks. The unfolding of the bud is very rapid when the sun melts the resin that binds it so firmly together. </div> <div> The large leaves are divided into five or seven leaflets, spreading like fingers from the palm of the hand and have their margins finely toothed. All over the small branches may be found the curious marks in the shape of minute horse-shoes, from which, perhaps, the tree gets its name. They are really the leaf scars. Wherever a bygone leaf has been, can be traced on the bark a perfect facsimile of a horse-shoe, even to the seven nail markings, which are perfectly distinct. And among the twigs may be found some with an odd resemblance to a horse's foot and fetlock. </div> <div> The flowers are mostly white, with a reddish tinge, or marking, and grow in dense, erect spikes. There is also a dull red variety, and a less common yellow variety, which is a native of the southern United States, but is seldom seen here. </div> <div> The fruit is a brown nut, with a very shining, polished skin, showing a dull, rough, pale-brown scar where it has been attached to the inside of the seed-vessel, a large green husk, protected with short spines, which splits into three valves when it falls to the ground and frees the nut. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>The Horse Chestnut is generally raised from the nuts, which are collected in the autumn and sown in the early spring. The nuts should be preserved in sand during the winter, as they may become mouldy and rot. If steeped in water, they will germinate more quickly. They will grow 3 foot the first summer and require little care, being never injured by the cold of this climate. They thrive in most soils and situations, but do best in a good, sandy loam. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The bark and the fruit, from both of which a fluid extract is made. The bark is stripped in the spring and dried in the sun, or by slight artificial heat, and when dry, occurs in commerce in flattened pieces, 4 to 5 inches long and about 1 to 1 1/2 inch broad-about 1 to 1 1/4 inch thick, greyish-brown externally, showing corky elongated warts, and on the inner surface pinkish-brown, finely striated longitudinally. The bark is odourless, but has a bitter astringent taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_37"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The bark has tonic, narcotic and febrifuge properties and is used in intermittent fevers, given in an infusion of 1 OZ. to the pint, in tablespoonful doses, three or four times daily. As an external application to ulcers, this infusion has also been used with success. </div> <div> The fruits have been employed in the treatment of rheumatism and neuralgia, and also in rectal complaints and for haemorrhoids. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract, fruit, 5 to 20 drops. Fluid extract, bark, 1/2 to 2 drachms. </div> <div> <B>Horse Chestnuts as Fodder</B> </div> <div> In Eastern countries considerable use is made of Horse Chestnuts for feeding horses and cattle, and cattle are said to eat them with relish, though pigs will not touch them. The method of utilizing them is to first soak them in lime-water, which deprives them of the well-known bitter flavour inherent in the nuts, and then to grind them to a meal and mix them with the ordinary provender. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_31"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Analysis has shown that the nuts contain 3.04 per cent. water; 2.66 per cent. ash; 10.99 crude protein; oil, 5.34 per cent.; and 73 97 per cent. carbohydrates. Experiments conducted at Wye College proved that the most satisfactory way to prepare the Horse Chestnuts as food for animals was to soak partly crushed nuts in cold water overnight, then boil them for half an hour or so and strain off the water. The nuts were then dried, partially husked and reduced to a meal, which, though slightly bitter, had a pleasant taste and appearance. The meal was fed to a calf, a sheep and two pigs. The calf received up to 5 lb. of the meal per day and made good increase in live weight, and the sheep suffered no ill effects, but the pig refused to eat the food containing the meal. It is concluded that Horse Chestnuts are not poisonous to any of the farm animals experimented with, within the limits of what they can be induced to eat, and that they form a highly nutritious food. Chestnut meal is a fairly concentrated food, and contains about 14 per cent of starch, it being calculated that 1 Ib. of Horse Chestnut meal would be equivalent to 1 Ib. 1 OZ. of feeding barley, 1 lb. 4 OZ. of oats, 1 lb. 8 oz. of bran, and 3 lb. 5 OZ. of good meadow hay. </div> <div> Experiments made during the Great War proved that for every ton of Horse Chestnuts which are harvested, half a ton of grain can be saved for human consumption, and thus the Horse Chestnuts, though totally unfit for human food, can be utilized indirectly to increase the national food supply. </div> <div> The genus <I>Pavia</I> is so closely allied as to be now generally grouped with the <I>Æsculus</I>. The Red Buckeye (<I>Æ. pavia</I>) is a handsome small tree with dense and large foliage, together with bright red flowers in large loose clusters in early summer. Sometimes it rises from 15 to 20 feet high, but some of its varieties are only low-spreading or trailing shrubs. The Yellow Buckeye (<I>Æ. flava</I>) is common and sometimes 40 feet high. It has somewhat the habit of the Red Horse Chestnut (<I>Æ. rubicunda</I>), but has smoother leaves. The DWARF HORSE CHESTNUT (<I>Æ. parviflora</I>) is a handsome shrub, 6 to 10 feet high, flowering in later summer. Its foliage is much like that of other <I>Æsculi</I>, and its small, white, fragrant flowers are in long, erect plume-flowers. </div> <bR> <div> Chestnut, Sweet</div> <div> Botanical: Castanea vesca (GÆRTN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Cupuliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Recipes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Fagus Castanea. Sardian Nut. Jupiter's Nut. Husked Nut. Spanish Chestnut. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Leaves and fruit. </div> <div> The Sweet Chestnut (<I>Castanea vesca</I> or <I>Fagus castanea</I>) has been with some reason described as the most magnificent tree which reaches perfection in Europe. </div> <div> It grows so freely in this country that it has been by some authorities considered a true native, its claim resting chiefly upon the use of what was for centuries supposed to be Chestnut timber in very ancient buildings, such as the roof of Westminster Hall and the Parliament House of Edinburgh. It is now, however, recognized that the wood of Chestnut loses all virtue of durability when over fifty years old, and though the tree is of very quick growth, the beams in question could not have been grown in fifty years, so it has been proved that they are of Durmast Oak, which closely resembles Chestnut both in grain and colour. </div> <div> It is now generally accepted that the Chestnut is really a native of sunnier skies than ours, but was probably introduced into England by the Romans. Before then it was introduced into Europe from Sardis, in Asia Minor, whence the fruit was called the 'Sardian Nut.' From Italy and Greece it seems to have spread itself over the greater part of temperate Europe, ripening its fruit and sowing itself wherever the vine flourishes. </div> <div> In France, Italy and Spain it attains a great size. Theophrastus called it the 'Euboean Nut' from Eubcea, now Negropont, where it was very abundant. </div> <div> The famous Tortworth Chestnut, in Gloucestershire, was a landmark in the boundary records compiled in the reign of John, and was already known as the Great Chestnut of Tortworth in the days of Stephen. This enormous tree at 5 feet from the ground measured over 50 feet in circumference in 1720, and was still flourishing some years ago. Many of the trees forming the vast Chestnut forests on the slopes of Mount Etna are said to be even larger. In the Mediterranean region the Chestnut flourishes luxuriantly. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_38"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The tree grows very erect when planted among others, is firmly set and massive, the trunk columnar, tapering little, upstanding to the summit. When standing alone, it spreads its branches firmly on every side. Its bark is dark grey in colour, thick and deeply furrowed: the furrows run longitudinally, but in age tend to twist, often then presenting almost the appearance of thick strands in a great cable. </div> <div> The handsome, narrow leaves are large and glossy, somewhat leathery in texture, 7 to 9 inches in length, about 2 1/2 inches broad, tapering to a point at each end, the margins with distant, sharp-pointed, spreading teeth, arranged alternately on the twig. They remain on the trees late in autumn, turning to a golden colour, and are then very beautiful, especially as they are not so liable to be insecteaten as are the leaves of the oak. They make useful litter. </div> <div> The flowers appear after the leaves, in late spring or early summer, and are arranged in long catkins of two kinds. Some of the catkins bear only male flowers, each with eight stamens, and these mature first, the ripe pollen having a rather sickly odour. Other catkins have both kinds of flowers, the majority of them being pollen-bearing, but having also, near the twig from which they spring, the female or fruit-producing flowers in clusters, two or three fiowers together in a four-lobed prickly involucre, which later grows completely together and becomes the thick, leathery hull which covers the ripening seeds. The fruit hangs in clusters of these forbidding-looking burs - the brown nuts, which are roundish in shape, drawn up to a point and flattened on one side, being thus enclosed in a kind of casket protected by spines . </div> <div>  <A NAME="use"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Uses---</B>In this country, as a rule not more than one of these nuts matures, and as they rarely come to great perfection, nearly all of those used are imported, mostly from Spain whence they are also called Spanish Chestnuts. The larger and better sorts, called Marones, are the produce of Italy, France, Switzerland and southern Germany, in which countries, especially in southern France and Italy, it forms an important article of diet, constituting in Italy a considerable proportion of the food of the peasantry. </div> <div> They make an excellent stuffing for turkey, also roast pheasant, which is one of the few forms in which they are eaten here, apart from simply being roasted. Evelyn spoke of them as 'delicacies for princes and a lusty and masculine food for rusticks, and able to make women well-complexioned,' and then not unnaturally lamented that in England they are chiefly given to swine. </div> <div> The meal of the Chestnut has also been used for whitening linen cloth and for making starch. The best kind, the Marones, contain 15 per cent sugar, and by expression yield a thick syrup, from which in turn a very usable sugar can be derived. This variety in France forms the favourite sweetmeat: <I>Marons glacés</I>. </div> <div> Chestnut makes excellent timber. Though in old age the wood is brittle and liable to crack, when in a <I>growing</I> stage, having very little sap wood, it contains more timber of a durable quality than an oak of the same dimensions, and young chestnuts have proved more durable than oak for woodwork that has to be partly in the ground, such as stakes and fences. It is used for many other purposes, such as pit-props and wine-barrels and formerly Chestnut timber was used indiscriminately with oak for the construction of houses, mill-work and household furniture. In hop-growing districts it is in great demand for poles, and a coppice of prime chestnut is worth over <I>L</I>. 50 (pounds sterling) per acre. It makes excellent underwood and is quick growing. We read of an abbot in the reign of Henry II having a grant made to him of 'tithes of Chestnuts in the Forest of Dean,' and in modern days extensive plantings of Chestnuts have been made in the same great forest. </div> <div> The usual method of <I>propagation</I> is by well-selected nuts, but if the tree is grown with the object of fruit-bearing, grafting is the best method. This is done in foreign countries and the method has been adopted in Devonshire. The grafted trees - called <I>marronniers</I> by the French - are, however, unfit for timber. The most suitable soil for Chestnut trees is a sandy loam, with a dry bottom, but they will grow in any soil, provided the subsoil be dry. </div> <div> The Chestnut takes its name, <I>Castanea</I>, from a town of the name of Castanis in Thessaly, near where the tree grew in great abundance. It has the same name in different forms in all the European languages. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The leaves, picked in June and July when they are in best condition and dried. They have also been used in the fresh state. </div> <div> Chestnut leaves have no odour, but an astringent taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_38"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>In some places Chestnut leaves are used as a popular remedy in fever and ague, for their tonic and astringent properties. </div> <div> Their reputation rests, however, upon their efficacy in paroxysmal and convulsive coughs, such as whooping-cough, and in other irritable and excitable conditions of the respiratory organs. The infusion of 1 OZ. of the dried leaves in a pint of boiling water is administered in tablespoonful to wineglassful doses, three or four times daily. </div> <div> Culpepper says: </div> <div> 'if you dry the chestnut, both the barks being taken away, beat them into powder and make the powder up into an electuary with honey, it is a first-rate remedy for cough and spitting of blood. </div> <div>  <A NAME="rec_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> RECIPES</div> <div>  <A NAME="recsou"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Chestnut Soup---</B> </div> <div> Scald, peel and scrape 50 large chestnuts; put these into a stewpan with 2 OZ. of butter, an onion, 4 lumps of sugar, and a little pepper and salt, and simmer the whole over a slow fire for three-quarters of an hour; then bruise the chestnuts in a mortar; remove the pulp into a stewpan, add a quart of good brown gravy, and having rubbed the purée through a Tammy, pour it into a stewpan; make it hot and serve with fried crusts. </div> <div>  <A NAME="recpud"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Chestnut Pudding---</B> </div> <div> Put 12 OZ. of chestnut farina into a stewpan, and add 6 oz. of pounded sugar, a spoonful of vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt, 4 oz. of butter, and a pint of milk; stir this over the fire till it thickens, and then quicken the motion of the spoon until the paste leaves the sides of the stewpan; it must then be removed from the fire, and the yolks of 6 eggs incorporated therewith- then mix in gently the 6 whites whipped firm, and use this preparation to fill a plain mould spread inside with butter; place it on a baking-sheet, and bake it in an oven of moderate heat for about an hour; when done, turn it out on its dish, pour some diluted apricot jam round it, and serve. </div> <bR> <div> Chickweed</div> <div> Botanical: Stellaria media (CYRILL.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Caryophyllaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Starweed. Star Chickweed. Alsine media (Linn.). Passerina </div> <div> (<I>French</I>) Stellaire. </div> <div> (<I>German</I>) Augentrosgräs. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>It has been said that there is no part of the world where the Chickweed is not to be found. It is a native of all temperate and north Arctic regions, and has naturalized itself wherever the white man has settled, becoming one of the commonest weeds. </div> <div> From the Groundsel, we naturally from association of ideas turn to the Chickweed, though it is in no way <I>botanically</I> allied to the Groundsel. </div> <div> Several plants have been named Chickweed, one of them a plant belonging to the Purslane family and four species of Cerastium - the Mouse Ear Chickweeds - but the name especially belongs to the plant in question, <I>Stellaria media</I>, the ubiquitous garden weed, of which our caged birds are as fond as they are of Groundsel, a taste shared by young chickens, to whose diet it makes a wholesome addition. </div> <div> Chickweed is a most variable plant. Gerard enumerates no less than thirteen species, but the various forms are nowadays merely considered deviations from the one type. Hooker gives three varieties which have been named by other botanists as separate species. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_39"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The stem is procumbent and weak, much branched, often reaching a considerable length, trailing on the ground, juicy, pale green and slightly swollen at the joints. Chickweed is readily distinguished from the plants of the same genus by the line of hairs that runs up the stem on one side only, which when it reaches a pair of leaves is continued on the opposite side. The leaves are succulent, egg-shaped, about 1/2 inch long and 1/4 inch broad, with a short point, pale green and quite smooth, with flat stalks below, but stalkless above. They are placed on the stem in pairs. The small white star-like flowers are situated singly in the axils of the upper leaves. Their petals are narrow and deeply cleft, not longer than the sepals. They open about nine o'clock in the morning and are said to remain open just twelve hours in bright weather, but rain prevents them expanding, and after a heavy shower they become pendent instead of having their faces turned up towards the sun, though in the course of a few days rise again. The flowers are already in bloom in March and continue till late in the autumn. The seeds are contained in a little capsule fitted with teeth which close up in wet weather, but when ripe are open and the seeds are shaken out by each movement of the plant in the breeze this being one of the examples of the agency of the wind in the dispersal of seeds, which is to be seen in similar form in the capsules of poppy, henbane, campion and many other common plants. </div> <div> The Chickweed is also an instance of what is termed the 'Sleep of Plants,' for every night the leaves approach each other, so that their upper surfaces fold over the tender buds of the new shoots, and the uppermost pair but one of the leaves at the end of the stalk are furnished with longer leafstalks than the others, so that they can close upon the terminating pair and protect the tip of the shoot. </div> <div> The young leaves when boiled can hardly be distinguished from spring spinach, and are equally wholesome. They may also be used uncooked with young Dandelion leaves to form a salad. </div> <div> The custom of giving Chickweed to birds is a very old one, for Gerard tells us: </div> <div> 'Little birds in cadges (especially Linnets) are refreshed with the lesser Chickweed when they loath their meat whereupon it was called of some "Passerina." ' </div> <div> Both wild and caged birds eat the seeds as well as the young tops and leaves. Pigs like Chickweed, and also rabbits; cows and horses will eat it; sheep are indifferent to it, but goats refuse to touch it. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The whole herb, collected between May and July, when it is in the best condition, and dried in the same manner as Groundsel. It is used both fresh and dried. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_39"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Demulcent, refrigerant. It is held in great repute amongherbalists, used mostly in the form of an ointment. </div> <div> The fresh leaves have been employed as a poultice for inflammation and indolent ulcers with most beneficial results. A poultice of Chickweed enclosed in muslin is a sure remedy for a carbuncle or an external abscess. The water in which the Chickweed is boiled should also be used to bathe the affected part. </div> <div> Gerard tells us that: </div> <div> 'the leaves of Chickweed boyled in water very soft, adding thereto some hog's grease, the powder of Fenugreeke and Linseed, and a few roots of Marsh Mallows, and stamped to the forme of Cataplasme or pultesse, taketh away the swelling of the legs or any other part . . . in a word it comforteth, digesteth, defendeth and suppurateth very notably.' </div> <div> He says that 'the leaves boyled in vinegar and salt are good against mangines of the hands and legs, if they be bathed therewith.' </div> <div> Combined with Elecampane, Chickweed has also been recommended as a specific for hydrophobia, and the juice, taken internally, for scurvy. </div> <div> The plant chopped and boiled in lard makes a fine green cooling ointment, good for piles and sores, and cutaneous diseases. It has also been employed as an application for ophthalmia. </div> <div> A decoction made with the fresh plant is good for constipation, and an infusion of the dried herb is efficacious in coughs and hoarseness. The dose of the fluid extract is 10 to 60 drops. </div> <div> Culpepper calls it 'a fine, soft, pleasing herb, under the dominion of the Moon,' and goes on to tell us that: </div> <div> 'It is found to be as effectual as Purslain to all the purposes whereunto it serveth, except for meat only. The herb bruised, or the juice applied, with cloths or sponges dipped therein to the region of the liver, and as they dry to have fresh applied, doth wonderfully temper the heat of the liver and is effectual for all impostumes and swellings whatsoever; for all redness in the face, wheals, pushes, itch or scabs, the juice being either simply used, or boiled in hog's grease; the juice or distilled water is of good use for all heat and redness in the eyes ... as also into the ears.... It helpeth the sinews when they are shrunk by cramps or otherwise, and extends and makes them pliable again, by using the following methods, viz.: Boil a handful of Chickweed and a handful of dried red-rose leaves, but not distilled, in a quart of muscadine, until a fourth part be consumed; then put to them a pint of oil of trotters, or sheep's feet, let them boil a good while, still stirring them well, which being strained, anoint the grieved part therewith warm against the fire, rubbing it well with your hand, and bind also some of the herb, if you choose, to the place, and with God's blessing it will help in three times dressing.' </div> <div> Chickweed water is an old wives' remedy for obesity. </div> <bR> <div> Chicory</div> <div> Botanical: Cichorium intybus (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Succory. Wild Succory. Hendibeh. Barbe de Capucin. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Wild Chicory or Succory is not uncommon in many parts of England and Ireland, though by no means a common plant in Scotland. It is more common on gravel or chalk, especially on the downs of the south-east coast, and in places where the soil is of a light and sandy nature, when it is freely to be found on waste land, open borders of fields and by the roadside, and is easily recognized by its tough, twig-like stems, along which are ranged large, bright blue flowers about the size and shape of the Dandelion. Sir Jas. E. Smith, founder of the Linnean Society, says of the tough stems: 'From the earliest period of my recollection, when I can just remember tugging ineffectually with all my infant strength at the tough stalks of the wild Succory, on the chalky hills about Norwich....' </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_40"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>It is a perennial, with a tap root like the Dandelion. The stems are 2 to 3 feet high, the lateral branches numerous and spreading, given off at a very considerable angle from the central stem, so that the general effect of the plant, though spreading, is not rich and full, as the branches stretch out some distance in each direction and are but sparsely clothed with leaves of any considerable size. The general aspect of the plant is somewhat stiff and angular. </div> <div> The lower leaves of the plant are large and spreading - thickly covered with hairs, something like the form of the Dandelion leaf, except that the numerous lateral segments or lobes are in general direction about at a right angle with the central stem, instead of pointing downwards, as in similar portions of the leaf of the Dandelion. The terminal lobe is larger and all the segments are coarsely toothed. The upper leaves are very much smaller and less divided, their bases clasping the stems. </div> <div> The flowerheads are numerous, placed in the axils of the stem-leaves, generally in clusters of two or three. When fully expanded, the blooms are rather large and of a delicate tint of blue: the colour is said to specially appeal to the humble bee. They are in blossom from July to September. However sunny the day, by the early afternoon every bloom is closed, its petal-rays drawing together. Linnaeus used the Chicory as one of the flowers in his floral Clock at Upsala, because of its regularity in opening at 5 a.m. and closing at 10 a.m. in that latitude. Here it closes about noon and opens between 6 and 7 in the morning. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>It has been suggested that the name <I>Succory</I> came from the Latin <I>succurrere</I> (to run under), because of the depth to which the root penetrates. It may, however be a corruption of Chicory, or <I>Ctchorium</I>, a word of Egyptian origin, which in various forms is the name of the plant in practically every European language. The Arabian physicians called it 'Chicourey.' <I>Intybus</I>, the specific name of the Chicory, is a modification of another Eastern name for the plant - <I>Hendibeh</I>. The Endive, an allied but foreign species (a native of southern Asia and northern provinces of China) derives both its common and specific names from the same word. The Endive and the Succory are the only two species in the genus <I>Cichorium</I>. There is little doubt that the Cichorium mentioned by Theophrastus as in use amongst the ancients was the wild Chicory, since the names by which the wild plant is known in all the languages of modern Europe are merely corruptions of the original Greek word, while there are different names in the different countries for the Garden Endive. </div> <div> Succory was known to the Romans and eaten by them as a vegetable or in salads, its use in this way being mentioned by Horace, Virgil, Ovid, and Pliny. </div> <div> On the Continent, Chicory is much cultivated, not only as a salad and vegetable, but also for fodder and more especially for the sake of its root, which though woody in the wild state, under cultivation becomes large and fleshy, with a thick rind, and is employed extensively when roasted and ground, for blending with coffee. </div> <div> In this country Chicory has been little grown. There was an attempt in 1788 to introduce its cultivation here as fodder, it being grown largely for that purpose in France, especially for sheep, but it would seem not to have met with success and has not been grown as a farm crop, though it furnishes abundance of good fodder at a time when green food is scarce, growing very quickly, two cuttings being possible in the first year and three in subsequent years, the produce being said to be superior on the whole to Lucerne. Although this plant, being succulent, seldom dries well for hay in this country, it seems valuable as fresh food for horses, cows and sheep: rabbits are fond of it. There has been an attempt since the war to re-introduce the cultivation of Chicory, and it has been successfully grown at the experimental farm of the University College of North Wales at Bangor, and at Kirton, Lincolnshire, for the first time for forty years, was reported in March, 1917, to be yielding 20 tons per acre. </div> <div> When grown for a forage crop, it should be sown during the last week in May, or first week in June, in drills about 15 inches apart, the plants being afterwards singled to from 6 inches to 8 inches in the row. About 5 lb. of seed will be needed for the acre. If sown too early the plant is likely to bolt. So grown, the crop of leaves can be cut in autumn to be fed to stock of all kinds, such as poultry, rabbits, cows, etc., and in following years, if the crop is kept clean, the foliage may be mown off three or four times. So grown it should of course never be allowed to seed. </div> <div> On the Continent, especially in Belgium, the young and tender roots are boiled and eaten with butter like parsnips, and form a very palatable vegetable. </div> <div>  <A NAME="use_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Uses---</B>The leaves are used in salads, for which they are much superior to Dandelion. They may be cut and used from young plants, but are generally blanched, as the unblanched leaves are bitter. This forced foliage is termed by the French <I>Barbe de Capucin</I> and forms a favourite winter salad, much eaten in France and Belgium. A particularly fine strain is known as <I>Witloof</I>, in Belgium, where smallholders make a great feature of this crop and excel in its cultivation. The young blanched heads also form a good vegetable for cooking, similar to Sea Kale. </div> <div> Enormous quantities of the plant are cultivated on the Continent, to supply the grocer with the ground Chicory which forms an ingredient or adulteration to coffee. In Belgium, Chicory is sometimes even used as a drink without admixture of coffee. For this purpose, the thick cultivated root is sliced kiln-dried, roasted and then ground. It differs from coffee in the absence of volatile oil, rich aromatic flavour, caffeine and caffeotannic acid, and in the presence of a large amount of ash, including silica. When roasted, it yields 45 to 65 per cent of soluble extractive matter. Roasted Coffee yields only 21 to 25 per cent of soluble extract, this difference affording a means of approximately determining the amount of Chicory in a mixture. </div> <div> When infused, Chicory gives to coffee a bitterish taste and a dark colour. French writers say it is <I>contra-stimulante</I>, and serves to correct the excitation caused by the principles of coffee, and that it suits bilious subjects who suffer from habitual constipation, but is ill-adapted for persons whose vital energy soon flags, and that for lymphatic or bloodless persons its use should be avoided. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Chicory is a hardy perennial and will grow in almost any soil. For use as a salad, the plant may be easily cultivated in the kitchen garden. Sow the seed in May or June, in drills about 1 inch deep, about 12 inches apart, and thin out the young plants to 6 or 8 inches apart in the rows; when well up, water in very dry weather. </div> <div> For blanching, dig up in October as many as may be needed, and after cutting off the leaves, it is well to let the roots be exposed to the air for a fortnight or three weeks; they should then be planted in deep boxes or pots of sand or light soil, leaving 8 inches between the soil and the top of the box. A cover of some sort is put on the box to exclude the light and the box put into a warm place, either in a warm green-house, under the stage, or, being so hardy, they may be successful in a moderately warm cellar and shed from which frost is excluded. Deprived of light, the young oncoming leaves become blanched and greatly elongated, and in this state are cut and sent to the market. If light is totally debarred, as it should be, the produce will be of a beautiful creamy white colour, soft and nearly destitute of the bitter flavour present when the plants are grown in the open air. </div> <div> The fresh root is bitter, with a milky juice which is somewhat aperient and slightly sedative, suiting subjects troubled with bilious torpor, whilst, on good authority, the plant has been pronounced useful against pulmonary consumption. </div> <div> A decoction of 1 OZ. of the root to a pint of boiling water, taken freely, has been found effective in jaundice, liver enlargements, gout and rheumatic complaints, and a decoction of the plant, fresh gathered, has been recommended for gravel. </div> <div> Syrup of Succory is an excellent laxative for children, as it acts without irritation. </div> <div> An infusion of the herb is useful for skin eruptions connected with gout. </div> <div> The old herbalists considered that the leaves when bruised made a good poultice for swellings, inflammations and inflamed eyes, and that 'when boiled in broth for those that have hot, weak and feeble stomachs doe strengthen the same.' Tusser (1573) considered it - together with Endive - a useful remedy for ague, and Parkinson pronounced Succory to be a 'fine, cleansing, jovial plant.' </div> <div> Chicory when taken too habitually, or freely, causes venous passive congestion in the digestive organs within the abdomen and a fullness of blood in the head. If used in excess as a medicine it is said to bring about loss of visual power in the retina. </div> <div> From the flowers a water was distilled to allay inflammation of the eyes. With violets, they were used to make the confection, 'Violet plates,' in the days of Charles II. </div> <div> The seeds contain abundantly a demulcent oil, whilst the petals furnish a glucoside which is colourless unless treated with alkalies, when it becomes of a golden yellow. The leaves have been used to dye blue. </div> <div> SWINE'S CHICORY (<I>Arnoseris pusilla</I>, Gaertn.), also known as Lamb's Succory, is a cornfield weed belonging to a closely related genus. All its leaves are radical, and it has small heads of yellow flowers on leafless, branched flower-stalks. It has no therapeutic uses. </div> <div> To obtain roots of a large size, the ground must be rich, light and well manured. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The root. When dried - in the same manner as Dandelion it is brownish, with tough, loose, reticulated white layers surrounding a radiate, woody column. It often occurs in commerce crowned with remains of the stem. It is inodorous and of a mucilaginous and bitter taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_32"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A special bitter principle, not named, inulin and sugar. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_40"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Chicory has properties similar to those of Dandelion, its action being tonic, laxative and diuretic. </div> <bR> <div> Chimaphila</div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>Pipsissiwa</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Pyrola</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Wintergreen</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> China</div> <div> Botanical: Smilax China (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Liliaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Prepartions</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>China, Japan and East Indies. </div> <div> (The China used in homoeopathy is not to be confused with this plant. In homoepathy China is the name given to Peruvian bark. - EDITOR) </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_41"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A climbing shrub with tuberous roots, stems prickly, leaves stalked and veined, with a tendril on each side of the leaf stalks. The flowers have globular heads, sessile in the axils of the leaves, Tubers cylindrical, irregular, 4 to 6 inches long, 2 inches thick, slightly flattened, having short knotty branches, with a rust-coloured shiny bark, sometimes smooth, may be wrinkled, internally pale fawn colour, mealy, small resin cells, no odour, taste indifferent, afterwards slightly bitter and acrid, not unlike ordinary sarsaparilla. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_41"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Alterative, diaphoretic, tonic. China Smilax is used for the same purposes and has much the same properties as the official Sarsaparilla. In large doses it causes nausea and vomiting, especially valuable in weakened and depraved conditions due to a poisoned state of the blood, it is a useful alterative in old syphilitic cases and in chronic rheumatism; it is also used for certain skin diseases. It was introduced into China in A.D. 1535, when it was considered an infallible remedy for gout; in that country the roots are eaten as a food. With alum the root gives a yellow dye and with sulphate of iron a brown colour. </div> <div> The name Smilax was used by the Greeks to denote a poisonous tree, but some authorities consider it is derived from 'Smile,' meaning cutting or scratching, having reference to the rough prickly nature of the plant. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>The compound syrup is mostly used to form a vehicle for the administration of mercury and iodide of potassium. Dose, 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div> The smoke from sarsaparilla has been highly recommended for asthma. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B>The rootstocks of <I>Smilax Pseudo-China</I> are made into a sort of beer in South Carolina. They are also used to fatten pigs. In Persia the young shoots of some of these species are eaten as asparagus. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>SARSAPARILLA, AMERICAN</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SARSAPARILLA, CARACAO</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SARSAPARILLA, JAMAICA</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SARSAPARILLA, INDIAN</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SARSAPARILLA, WILD</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Chiretta</div> <div> Botanical: Swertia chirata (BUCH.-HAM.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Gentianaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages and Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Chirata. Indian Gentian. Indian Balmony. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Northern India, Nepal. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_42"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>This plant first came into notice in Britain in 1829, and in 1839 was admitted to the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia. It is an annual, about 3 feet high; branching stem; leaves smooth entire, opposite, very acute, lanceolate; flowers numerous; peduncles yellow; one-celled capsule. The whole herb is used and collected when flower is setting for seed and dried. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_33"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Two bitter principles, Ophelic acid and Chiratin, the latter in larger proportion. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_42"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The true Chiretta has a yellowish pith, is extremely bitter and has no smell, an overdose causes sickness and a sense of oppression in the stomach. It acts well on the liver, promoting secretion of bile, cures constipation and is useful for dyspepsia. It restores tone after illness. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_17"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages and Preparations---</B>Dried plant, 5 to 30 grains. Infusion of Chiretta, B.P., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 draehm. Solid extract, 4 to 8 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B>In Indian bazaars where Chiretta is much more used than in England, the name Chirata is given to manykinds of Gentian-like plants. The one that is most in use among them is <I>Ophelia augustifolia</I>, the hill Chirata. It can easily be recognized by the stem being hollow, without pith and lower part of stem square. Another adulterant is <I>Andrographis paniculata</I>, also a native of India, one of the <I>Acanthaceae</I>; this in the dried state looks more like a bundle of broomtops, but is used a great deal in India as it has two valuable bitter tonic principles, Andrographolide and Halmeghin. </div> <bR> <div> Chives</div> <div> Botanical: Allium schoenoprasum (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Liliaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Cives. </div> <div> (<I>French</I>) Ail civitte </div> <div> (<I>Old French</I>) Petit poureau </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>The Chive is the smallest, though one of the finest-flavoured of the Onion tribe, belonging to the botanical group of plants that goes under the name of <I>Allium</I>, which includes also the Garlic, Leek and Shallot. Though said to be a native of Britain, it is only very rarely found growing in an uncultivated state, and then only in the northern and western counties of England and Wales and in Oxfordshire. It grows in rocky pastures throughout temperate and northern Europe. De Candolle says: 'This species occupies an extensive area in the northern hemisphere. It is found all over Europe from Corsica and Greece to the south of Sweden, in Siberia as far as Kamschatka and also in North America. The variety found in the Alps is the nearest to the cultivated form.' Most probably it was known to the Ancients, as it grows wild in Greece and Italy. Dodoens figures it and gives the French name for it in his days: '<I>Petit poureau</I>,' relating to its rush-like appearance. In present day French it is commonly called '<I>Ail civitte</I>.' The Latin name of this species means 'Rush-Leek.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_43"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The plant is a hardy perennial. The bulbs grow very close together in dense tufts or clusters, and are of an elongated form, with white, rather firm sheaths, the outer sheath sometimes grey. </div> <div> The slender leaves appear early in spring and are long, cylindrical and hollow, tapering to a point and about the thickness of a crowsquill. They grow from 6 to 10 inches high. </div> <div> The flowering stem is usually nipped off with cultivated plants (which are grown solely for the sake of the leaves, or 'grass'), but when allowed to rise, it seldom reaches more than a few inches to at most a foot in height. It is hollow and either has no leaf or one leaf sheathing it below the middle. It supports a close globular head, or umbel, of purple flowers; the numerous flowers are densely packed together on separate, very slender little flower-stalks, shorter than the flowers themselves, which lengthen slightly as the fruit ripens, causing the heads to assume a conical instead of a round shape. The petals of the flowers are nearly half an inch long; when dry, their pale-purple colour, which has in Parts a darker flush, changes to rose-colour. The anthers (the pollen-bearing part of the flower) are of a bluish-purple colour. The seed-vessel, or capsule, is a little larger than a hemp seed and is completely concealed within the petals, which are about twice its length. The small seeds which it contains are black when ripe and similar to Onion seeds. </div> <div> The flowers are in blossom in June and July, and in the most cold and moist situations will mature their seeds, though rarely allowed to do so under cultivation. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>The Chive will grow in any ordinary garden soil. It can be raised by seed, but is usually propagated by dividing the clumps in spring or autumn. In dividing the clumps, leave about six little bulbs together in a tiny clump, which will spread to a fine clump in the course of a year, and may then be divided. Set the clumps from 9 inches to a foot apart each way. For a <I>quick return</I>, propagation by division of the bulb clumps is always to be preferred. </div> <div> The green from the clumps can be cut three or four times in the season. When required for use, each clump may be cut in turn, fairly close to the ground. The leaves will soon grow again and be found more tender each time of cutting. By carefully cropping, the 'grass' can be obtained quite late in the season, until the early frosts come, when it withers up and disappears through the winter, pushing up again in the first warm days of February. For early crops, a little 'grass' can be forced on the clumps by placing cloches or a 'light' over them. </div> <div> Beyond weeding between the clumps, no further care or attention is needed after division. Beds should be re-planted at least once in three or four years. </div> <div> If it is desired to produce seed, grow two plantations, one for producing 'grass' for use, and the other to be left to flower and set seed, as you cannot get the two crops - 'grass' and seed, off the one set of plants. </div> <div>  <A NAME="use_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Uses---</B>The Chive contains a pungent volatile oil, rich in sulphur, which resent in all the Onion tribe and causes their distinctive smell and taste. </div> <div> It is a great improvement to salads - cut fresh and chopped fine-and may be put not only into green salads, but also into cucumber salad, or sprinkled on sliced tomatoes. </div> <div> Chives are also excellent in savoury omelettes, and may be chopped and boiled with potatoes that are to be mashed, or chopped fresh and sprinkled, just before serving, on mashed potatoes, both as a garnish and flavouring. They may also be put into soup, either dried, or freshly cut and finely chopped, and are a welcome improvement to homemade sausages, croquettes, etc., as well as an excellent addition to beefsteak puddings and pies. </div> <div> Chives are also useful for cutting up and mixing with the food of newly-hatched turkeys. </div> <div> Parkinson mentions Chives as being cultivated in his garden, among other herbs. </div> <bR> <div> Chrysanthemum</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Pellitory</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cicely, Sweet</div> <div> Botanical: Myrrhis odorata (SCOP.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>British Myrrh. Anise. Great (Sweet) Chervil. Sweet Chervil. Smooth Cicely. Sweet Bracken. Sweet-fern. Sweet-Cus. Sweet-Humlock. Sweets. The Roman Plant. Shepherd's Needle. Smoother Cicely. Cow Chervil. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>The whole plant and seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Mountain pastures from the Pyrenees to the Caucasus. In Britain, in the hilly districts of Wales, northern England and Scotland. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_44"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The name <I>Myrrhis odorata</I> is derived from the Greek word for perfume, because of its myrrh-like smell. </div> <div> It is a native of Great Britain, a perennial with a thick root and very aromatic foliage, on account of which it was used in former days as a salad herb, or boiled, when the root, leaves, and seed were all used. The leaves are very large, somewhat downy beneath, and have a flavour rather like Anise, with a scent like Lovage. The first shoots consist of an almost triangular, lacey leaf, with a simple wing curving up from each side of its root. The stem grows from 2 to 3 feet high, bearing many leaves, and white flowers in early summer appear in compound umbels.In appearance it is rather like Hemlock, but is of a fresher green colour. The fruit is remarkably large, an inch long, dark brown, and fully flavoured. The leaves taste as if sugar had been sprinkled over them. It is probable that it is not truly a wild plant, as it is usually found near houses, where it may very probably be cultivated in the garden. Sweet Cicely is very attractive to bees; in the north of England it is said that the seeds are used to polish and scent oak floors and furniture. In Germany they are still very generally used in cookery. The old herbalists describe the plant as 'so harmless you cannot use it amiss.' The roots were supposed to be not only excellent in a salad, but when boiled and eaten with oil and vinegar, to be 'very good for old people that are dull and without courage; it rejoiceth and comforteth the heart and increaseth their lust and strength.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_43"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Aromatic, stomachic, carminative and expectorant. Useful in coughs and flatulence, and as a gentle stimulant for debilitated stomachs. The fresh root may be eaten freely or used in infusion with brandy or water. A valuable tonic for girls from 15 to 18 years of age. The roots are antiseptic, and a decoction is used for the bites of vipers and mad dogs The distilled water is said to be diuretic, and helpful in pleurisy, and the essence to be aphrodisiac. The decoction of roots in wine is also said to be effective for consumption, in morning and evening doses of 4 to 8 OZ., while the balsam and ointment cure green wounds, stinking ulcers, and ease the pain of gout. </div> <div> The medicinal properties resemble those of the American variety. </div> <div> <I>Chervil</I>, or <I>Scandix Cerefolium</I> (fam. Umbelliferae), a native of southern Europe and the Levant, is used only in cookery, and used in the French bouquet of herbs known as 'fines herbes.' </div> <div> <I>American Sweet Cicely</I> (fam. Apicceae) or <I>Ozmorrhiza longistylis</I>. This plant grows in various parts of the United States, on lowlying, moist lands, flowering in May and June. The root has a sweet smell and taste, resembling aniseed and yields its properties to water or diluted alcohol. </div> <bR> <div> Cineraria Maritima</div> <div> Botanical: Senecio maritima (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Dusty Miller. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Juice of the leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Shores of the Mediterranean. Also found on the maritime rocks of Holyhead. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_45"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The word 'Cineraria' means ashy grey, a mixture of black and white colouring resulting in the beautiful colour of the plant which grows sparsely in the author's garden at Chalfont St. Peter. This plant is perennial, propagated by cuttings, layers, or seeds. It belongs to the groundsel or ragwort family, of which there are nearly 900 different species known to botanists. The species takes its name from <I>Senex</I> (an old man) in allusion to the white hairy pappus which crowns the achenes. The leaves are about 6 inches long, 2 inches wide, pinnately divided; flowers yellow. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_44"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The fresh juice is said to remove cataract. A few drops of the fresh juice are dropped into the eye. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>GROUNDSEL</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>LIFE ROOT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>RAGWORT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Cinnamon</div> <div> Botanical: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (NEES.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Lauraceae </div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations and Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Laurus Cinnamomum. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Ceylon, but grows plentifully in Malabar, Cochin-China, Sumatra and Eastern Islands. Has also been cultivated in the Brazils, Mauritius, India, Jamaica, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_46"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Grows best in almost pure sand, requiring only 1 per cent of vegetable substance; it prefers a sheltered place, constant rain, heat and equal temperature. The Dutch owned the monopoly of the trade of the wild produce, and it was not cultivated until 1776, owing to Dutch opposition and the belief that cultivation would destroy its properties. </div> <div> Cinnamon is now largely cultivated. The tree grows from 20 to 30 feet high, has thick scabrous bark, strong branches, young shoots speckled greeny orange, the leaves petiolate, entire, leathery when mature, upper side shiny green, underside lighter; flowers small white in panicles; fruit, an oval berry like an acorn in its receptacle, bluish when ripe with white spots on it, bigger than a blackberry; the root-bark smells like cinnamon and tastes like camphor, which it yields on distillation. Leaves, when bruised, smell spicy and have a hot taste; the berry tastes not unlike Juniper and has a terebine smell; when ripe, bruised and boiled it gives off an oily matter which when cool solidifies and is called cinnamon suet. </div> <div> The commercial Cinnamon bark is the dried inner bark of the shoots. </div> <div> Cinnamon has a fragrant perfume, taste aromatic and sweet; when distilled it only gives a very small quantity of oil, with a delicious flavour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_34"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>0 to 10 per cent of volatile oil, tannin, mucilage and sugar. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_45"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Carminative, astringent, stimulant, antiseptic; more powerful as a local than as a general stimulant; is prescribed in powder and infusion but usually combined with other medicines. It stops vomiting, relieves flatulence, and given with chalk and astringents is useful for diarrhoea and haemorrhage of the womb. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations and Dosages---</B>Cinnamon Water, B.P., 1 to 2 fluid ounces. Tincture of Cinnamon, B.P., 1/2 to 1 drachm. Oil, B.P., 1/2 to 3 drops. Comp. Powd. Arom., B.P., 10 to 40 grains. Spirit, B.P., 5 to 20 drops. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_16"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Cinnamon Cassia</I> is often substituted for it it possesses much the same qualities and constituents but is inferior. See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>CASSIA</U></FONT>. </div> <div> <I>C. Culiawan</I>. Native of Amboyna- the bark has the flavour of cloves. </div> <div> <I>C. iners</I>. Native of Malabar, seeds useful for fevers and dysentery; bark employed as a condiment. </div> <div> <I>C. nitidum</I>. Dried leaves are said to furnish the aromatic called 'folid Malabathri.' </div> <bR> <div> Cinnamon, White</div> <div> Botanical: Canella alba (MURRAY) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Canellaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Canella. White Wood. Wild Cinnamon. Canellae Cortex. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The bark, deprived of its corky layer and dried. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>The West Indies and Florida. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_47"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A straight tree, from 10 to 50 feet in height, branched only at the top. The bark is whitish and the leaves alternate, oblong, thick, and of a dark, shining, laurel green. The flowers are small, and seldom open. They are of a violet colour, and grow in clusters at the tops of the branches. The fruit is an oblong berry containing four kidney-shaped seeds, and turns from green to blue and then to a glossy black. The wild pigeons of Jamaica eat the fruit, and their flesh is flavoured by them. The whole tree is aromatic, and if the flowers are dried, then softened again in warm water, they have a fragrance resembling musk. Canella was first introduced into Britain in 1600. The Spaniards, on seeing it in America, thought it was a species of cinnamon, and brought it to Europe as 'white cinnamon.' </div> <div> The corky layer of the bark can be gently beaten off, and the inner bark is dried, and exported chiefly from the Bahamas. </div> <div> In commerce the bark is found in quills or twisted pieces, of a pale orange-brown, with characteristic markings scars, or spots. The fracture is short, granular, and whitish. The odour is agreeable, resembling cloves and cinnamon, and the taste is pungent, bitter, and acrid. </div> <div> The negroes and Caribs use it as a condiment or spice, and it is sometimes added by smokers to their tobacco to remove the unpleasant odour and make their rooms fragrant. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_35"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A volatile oil, gum, starch, canellin, bitter extractive, resin, albumen, mannite, etc. The oil has a pungent, aromatic taste, and contains eugenol, cineol, and terpenes. There is no tannin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_46"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>An aromatic bitter, useful in enfeebled conditions of the stomach, and often given with other medicines. It was formerly given in scurvy. The powder is used with aloes as a stimulating purgative. (This is a descendant of the Hiera Piera of Galen. - EDITOR.) It is often sold as a substitute for winter's bark, but it contains no tannic acid, or oxide of iron, both of which are present in the other. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_18"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>10 to 40 grains of the powder. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_17"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>C. axillaris</I> of Brazil. Thought by some authorities to be the source of Malambo bark and Matias bark. </div> <bR> <div> Cinquefoil</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Five-Leaf Grass</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Clary, Common</div> <div> Botanical: Salvia Sclarea (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Labiatae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Clary, Wild English</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Clarry. Orvale. Toute-bonne. Clear Eye. See Bright. Eyebright. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>The herb and leaves, both fresh and dry. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Middle Europe. </div> <div> Common Clary, like the Garden Sage, is not a native of Great Britain, having first been introduced into English cultivation in the year 1562. It is a native of Syria Italy, southern France and Switzerland, but will thrive here upon almost any soil that is not too wet, though it will rot frequently upon moist ground in the winter. </div> <div> Gerard, in 1597, describes and figures several varieties of Clary, under the names of <I>Horminum</I> and <I>Gallitricum</I>. He describes it as growing 'in divers barren places almost in every country, especially in the fields of Holborne neare unto Grayes Inne . . . and at the end of Chelsea.' It must have become acclimatized very quickly if it was found 'in divers barren places' before the close of the sixteenth century, less than forty years after its introduction into the country. </div> <div> Salmon, in 1710, in <I>The English Herbal</I>, gives a number of varieties of the Garden Clary, which he calls <I>Horminum Hortense</I>, in distinction to <I>Horminum Sylvestre</I>, the Wild Clary, subdividing it into the Common Clary (<I>H. commune</I>), the True Garden Clary of Dioscorides (<I>H. sativum verum Dioscorides</I>), the Yellow Clary (<I>Calus Jovis</I>), and the Small or German Clary (<I>H. humile Germanicum</I> or <I>Gallitricum alterum Gerardi</I>). It is interesting to note that this last variety, being termed <I>Gerardi</I>, indicates that Gerard classified this species when it was first brought over from the Continent, evidently taking great pains to trace its history, giving in his <I>Herball</I> its Greek name and its various Latin ones. That Clary was known in ancient times is shown by the second variety, the True Garden Clarv being termed <I>Dioscoridis</I>. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_48"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The Common Garden Clary is a biennial plant, its square, brownish stems growing 2 to 3 feet high, hairy and with few branches. The leaves are arranged in pairs, almost stalkless, and are almost as large as the hand, oblong and heart-shaped, wrinkled, irregularly toothed at the margins and covered with velvety hairs. The flowers are in a long, loose, terminal spike, on which they are set in whorls. The lipped corollas, similar to the Garden Sage, but smaller, are of a pale blue or white. The flowers are interspersed with large coloured, membraneous bracts, longer than the spiny calyx. Both corollas and bracts are generally variegated with pale purple and yellowish-white. The seeds are blackish brown, 'contained in long toothed husks,' as an old writer describes the calyx. The whole plant possesses a very strong, aromatic scent, somewhat resembling that of Tolu, while the taste is also aromatic, warm and slightly bitter. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---History---</B>According to Ettmueller, this herb was first brought into use by the wine merchants of Germany, who employed it as an adulterant, infusing it with Elder flowers, and then adding the liquid to the Rhenish wine, which converted it into a Muscatel. It is still called in Germany <I>Muskateller Salbei</I> (Muscatel Sage). </div> <div> Waller (1822) states it was also employed in this country as a substitute for Hops, for sophisticating beer, communicating considerable bitterness and intoxicating property, which produced an effect of insane exhilaration of spirits, succeeded by severe headache. Lobel says: </div> <div> 'Some brewers of Ale and Beere doe put it into their drinke to make it more heady, fit to please drunkards, who thereby, according to their several dispositions, become either dead drunke, or foolish drunke, or madde drunke.' </div> <div> In some parts of the country, a wine has been made from the herb in flower, boiled with sugar, which has a flavour not unlike Frontiniac. </div> <div> Though employed in ancient times and in the Middle Ages for its curative properties, it seems to have fallen into disuse as a medicinal plant, though revived to a certain extent towards the end of the nineteenth century. </div> <div> The English name Clary originates in the Latin specific name <I>sclarea</I>, a word derived from <I>clarus</I> (clear). This name Clary was gradually modified into 'Clear Eye,' one of the popular names and generally explained from the fact that the seeds have been employed for clearing the sight, being so mucilaginous that a decoction from them placed in the eye would 'clear' it from any small foreign body, the presence of which might have caused irritation. </div> <div> Although the Garden Clary has much fallen into disuse as a medicine, there is a big trade done in it now, mainly in France, for the extraction of its oil as a perfume fixer, and there is undoubtedly a big future ahead for it for this purpose, not only on the Continent, but also in this country. </div> <div>  <A NAME="use_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Uses---</B>The leaves are used to adulterate digitalis. The dried root and the seeds were formerly used in domestic medicine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Clary is propagated by seed, which should be sown in the spring. When fit to move, the seedlings should be transplanted to an open piece of ground, a foot apart each way, if required in large quantities. After the plants have taken root, they will require no further care but to be kept free of weeds. The winter and spring following, the leaves will be in perfection. As the plant is a biennial only, dying off the second summer, after it has ripened its seeds, there should be young plants annually raised for use. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_36"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B><I>Salvia Sclarea</I> yields an oil with a highly aromatic odour, resembling that of ambergris. It is known commercially as Clary Oil, or Muscatel Sage, and is largely used as a fixer of perfumes. Pinene, cineol, and linalol have been isolated from this oil. </div> <div> French Oil of Clary has a specific gravity of 0.895 to 0.930, and is soluble in two volumes of 80 per cent. alcohol. German oil of Clary has a specific gravity of 0.910 to 0.960, and is soluble in two volumes of 90 per cent alcohol. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_47"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Antispasmodic, balsamic, carminative, tonic, aromatic,aperitive, astringent and pectoral. </div> <div> It has mostly been employed in disordered states of the digestion, as a stomachic, and has also proved useful in kidney diseases. </div> <div> The seeds when soaked in water for a few minutes form a thick mucilage, which is efficacious in removing particles of dust from the eye. Gerard says: </div> <div> 'It purgeth them exceedingly from the waterish humerous rednesse, inflammation, and drives other maladies or all that happens unto the eies and takes away the paine and smarting thereof, especially being put into the eies one seed at a time and no more.' </div> <div> Culpepper tells us: </div> <div> 'For tumours, swellings, &c., make a mucilage of the seeds and apply to the spot. This will also draw splinters and thorns out of the flesh.... For hot inflammation and boils before they rupture, use a salve made of the leaves boiled with hot vinegar, honey being added later till the required consistency is obtained.' </div> <div> He recommends a powder of the dry roots taken as snuff to relieve headache, and 'the fresh leaves, fried in butter, first dipped in a batter of flour, egges, and a little milke, serve as a dish to the table that is not unpleasant to any and exceedingly profitable.' </div> <div> The juice of the herb drunk in ale and beer, as well as the ordinary infusion, has been recommended as very helpful in all women's diseases and ailments. </div> <div> In Jamaica, where the plant is found, it was much in use among the negroes, who considered it cooling and cleansing for ulcers, and also used it for inflammations of the eyes. A decoction of the leaves boiled in coco-nut oil was used by them to cure the stings of scorpions. Clary and a Jamaican species of Vervain form two of the ingredients of an aromatic warm bath sometimes prescribed there with benefit. </div> <div> For violent cases of hysteria or wind colic, a spirituous tincture has been found of use, made by macerating in warm water for fourteen days, 2 OZ. of dried Clary leaves and flowers, 1 OZ. of Chamomile flowers, 1/2 oz. bruised Avens root, 2 drachms of bruised Caraway and Coriander seeds, and 3 drachms of bruised Burdock seeds, adding 2 pints of proof spirit, then filtering and diluting with double quantity of water - a wineglassful being the dose. </div> <div>  </div> <div>  <A NAME="wil"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> Clary, Wild English</div> <div> Botanical: Salvia Verbenaca</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Vervain Sage. Oculus Christi. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Leaves and seeds. </div> <div> <I>Salvia Verbenaca</I>, the Wild English Clary, or Vervain Sage, is a native of all parts of Europe and not uncommon in England in dry pastures and on roadsides, banks and waste ground, especially near the sea, or on chalky soil. It is a smaller plant than the Garden Clary, but its medicinal virtues are rather more powerful. </div> <div>  <A NAME="wildes"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The perennial root is woody, thick and long, the stem 1 to 2 feet high, erect and with the leaves in distant pairs, the lower shortly stalked, and the upper ones stalkless. The radical leaves lie in a rosette and have foot-stalks 1 1/2 to 4 inches long, their blades about the same length, oblong in shape, blunt at their ends and heart-shaped at the base, wavy at the margins, which are generally indented by five or six shallow, blunt lobes on each side, and their surfaces much wrinkled. The whole plant is aromatic, especially when rubbed, and is rendered conspicuous by its long spike of purplish-blue flowers, first dense, afterwards becoming rather lax. The whorls of the spike are sixflowered, and at the base of each flower are two heart-shaped, fringed, pointed bracts. The calyx is much larger than the corolla. The plant is in bloom from June to August. The seeds are smooth, and like the Garden Clary produce a great quantity of soft, tasteless mucilage, when moistened. Because, if put under the eyelids for a few moments, the tears dissolve this mucilage, which envelopes any dust and brings it out safely, old writers called this plant 'Oculus Christi,' or 'Christ's Eye.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="wilmed"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>'A decoction of the leaves,' says Culpepper, 'being drank, warms the stomach, also it helps digestion and scatters congealed blood in any part of the body.' </div> <div> This Clary was thought to be more efficacious to the eye than the Garden variety. </div> <div> 'The distilled water strengthening the eyesight, especially of old people,' says Culpepper, 'cleaneth the eyes of redness waterishness and heat: it is a gallant remedy for dimness of sight, to take one of the seeds of it and put it into the eyes, and there let it remain till it drops out of itself, the pain will be nothing to speak on: it will cleanse the eyes of all filthy and putrid matter; and repeating it will take off a film which covereth the sight.' </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>SAGE</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Clematis</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Clematis recta </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Antidotes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Upright Virgin's Bower. Flammula Jovis. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>The roots, stems. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Europe. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_49"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A perennial plant, stem about 3 feet high, leafy, striated, herbaceous, greenish or reddish; leaves large opposite, leaflets five to nine pubescent underneath, petioled; flowers, white in upright stiff terminal umbels, peduncles several times ternate; seeds dark brown, smooth, orbicular, much compressed, tails long yellowish, plumose; time for collecting when beginning to flower. </div> <div> The leaves and flowers have an acrid burning taste, the acridity being greatly diminished by drying. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_48"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The leaves and flowers when bruised irritate the eyes and throat giving rise to a flow of tears and coughing; applied to the skin they produce inflammation and vesication, hence the name Flammula Jovis. They are diuretic and diaphoretic, and are useful locally and internally in syphilitic, cancerous and other foul ulcers. Best suited to fair people, much used by homoeopathists for eye affections, gonorrhoeal symptoms and inflammatory conditions. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_19"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>----Dosages---</B>1 to 2 grains of the extract a day. 30 to 40 grains of the leaves in infusion a day. </div> <div>  <A NAME="ant_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Antidotes---</B>Camphor moderates the too violent effects of the drug. Bryonia is said to appease the toothache caused by clematis. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_18"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Clematis flammula</I> (Sweet-scented Virgin's Bower) is cultivated in gardens, together with <I>C. Vitalba</I> (Travellers' Joy) and <I>C. Virginia</I> (Common Virgin's Bower). <I>C. Viorna</I> (Leather Flower) and <I>C. crispa</I> has been sometimes used in place of <I>C. recta. C. flammula</I> is said to contain an alkaloid, Clematine, a violent poison. From the bruised roots and stems of <I>C. vitalba</I>, boiled for a few minutes in water and then digested for a while in sweet oil, a preparation is made used as a cure for itch, this variety is also said to contain Clematine. </div> <bR> <div> Clivers</div> <div> Botanical: Galium aparine (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rubiacece</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Chemical Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Cleavers. Goosegrass. Barweed. Hedgeheriff. Hayriffe. Eriffe. Grip Grass. Hayruff. Catchweed. Scratweed. Mutton Chops. Robin-run-in-the-Grass. Loveman. Goosebill. Everlasting Friendship. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Herb. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>It is abundant as a hedgerow weed, not only throughout Europe, but also in North America, springing up luxuriantly about fields and waste places. </div> <div> The natural order Rubiaceae, to which the Madder (<I>Rubia tinctoria</I>) and our common wild plants, the Clivers, the Bedstraws and Sweet Woodruff belong, comprises upwards of 3,000 species. Many of these are of the highest utility to man, both as food and medicine, among the former the coffee-tree, <I>Coffea Arabica</I>, is perhaps of the first importance. The valuable drug quinine is furnished by several species of <I>Cinchona</I>, a South American genus, and drugs of similar properties are derived from other plants of the same tribe, while Ipecacuanha is the powdered root of another member of this order, growing in the forests of Brazil. Many species growing in tropical climates are moreover noted for the beauty and fragrance of their flowers. </div> <div> Our British representatives are of a very different character, being all herbaceous plants, with slender, angular stems, bearing leaves arranged in whorls, or rosettes and small flowers. From the star-like arrangement of their leaves, all these British species have been assigned to the tribe <I>Stellatae</I> of the main order Rubiaceae. All the members of this tribe, numbering about 300, grow in the cold and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. </div> <div> Of the fifteen British representatives of the tribe <I>Stellatae</I>, eleven bear the name of Galium (the genus of the Bedstraws), and perhaps the commonest of these is the annual herb <I>Galium aparine</I>, familiarly known as Clivers or Goosegrass, though it rejoices in many other popular names in different parts of the country. </div> <div> The angles of its quadrangular stalks and leaves are covered with little hooked bristles, which attach themselves to passing objects, and by which it fastens itself in a ladder-like manner to adjacent shrubs, so as to push its way upwards through the dense vegetation of the hedgerows into daylight, its rough, weak stems then struggling over and through all the other wayside plants, often forming matted masses. </div> <div> The narrow, lance-shaped <I>leaves</I> (Professor Henslow explains that though the <I>Galiums</I> look as if they possessed whorls of six <I>leaves</I>, in reality each whorl consists of only <I>two</I> real leaves, one of which may usually be recognized by having a bud or shoot arising from its <I>axil</I>, the other four are <I>stipules</I>, two belonging to each leaf. - Editor.) - about 1/2 inch long and 1/4 inch broad - are arranged in <I>rosettes or whorls, six or eight together</I>, and are rough all over both margins and surface, the prickles pointing backwards. The flowers two or three together, spring from the axils of the leaves and are small and star-like, either white or greenish-white. They are followed by little globular seed-vessels, about 8 inch in diameter, covered with hooked bristles and readily adhering, like the leaves, to whatever they touch. By clinging to the coat of any animal that touches them, the dispersal of the seeds is ensured. </div> <div> Most of the plant's popular names are connected with the clinging nature of the herb. Some of its local names are of very old origin, being derived from the Anglo-Saxon 'hedge rife,' meaning a taxgatherer or robber, from its habit of plucking the sheep as they pass near a hedge. The old Greeks gave it the name <I>Philanthropon</I>, from its habit of clinging. The specific name of the plant, <I>aparine</I>, also refers to this habit, being derived from the Greek <I>aparo</I> (to seize). Clite, Click, Clitheren, Clithers are no doubt various forms of Cleavers, and Loveman is merely an Anglicized version of <I>Philanthropon</I>. Its frequent name, Goosegrass, is a reference to the fact that geese are extremely fond of the herb. It is often collected for the purpose of giving it to poultry. Horses, cows and sheep will also eat it with relish. </div> <div> The seeds of Clivers form one of the best substitutes for coffee; they require simply to be dried and slightly roasted over a fire, and so prepared, have much the flavour of coffee. They have been so used in Sweden. The whole plant gives a decoction equal to tea. </div> <div> We learn from Dioscorides that the Greek shepherds of his day employed the stems of this herb to make a rough sieve, and it is rather remarkable that Linnaeus reported the same use being made of it in Sweden, in country districts, as a filter to strain milk; the stalks are still used thus in Sweden. </div> <div> The plant is inodorous, but has a bitterish and somewhat astringent taste. </div> <div> The roots will dye red, and if eaten by birds will tinge their bones. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The whole plant root excepted, gathered in May and June, when just coming into flower. </div> <div>  <A NAME="che_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Chemical Constituents---</B>Chlorophyll, starch and three distinct acids, viz. a variety of tannic acid, which has been named galitannic acid, citric acid and a peculiar acid named rubichloric acid. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_49"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic, tonic, alterative, aperient. </div> <div> In old Herbals it is extolled for its powers, and it is still employed in country districts, both in England and elsewhere, as a purifier of the blood, the tops being used as an ingredient in rural 'spring drinks.' </div> <div> Fluid extract: dose, 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div> Modern herbalists and homoeopaths still recognize the value of this herb, and as an alterative consider it may be given to advantage in scurvy, scrofula, psoriasis and skin diseases and eruptions generally. The expressed juice is recommended, in doses of 3 oz. twice a day, but as it is a rather powerful diuretic, care should be taken that it is not given where a tendency to diabetes is manifested. Its use, however, is recommended in dropsical complaints, as it operates with considerable power upon the urinary secretion and the urinary organs. It is given in obstructions of these organs, acting as a solventof stone in the bladder. </div> <div> The dried plant is often infused in hot water and drunk as a tea, 1 OZ. of the dried herb being infused to 1 pint of water. This infusion, either hot or cold, is taken frequently in wine-glassful doses. </div> <div> The same infusion has a most soothing effect in cases of insomnia, and induces quiet, restful sleep. </div> <div> A wash made from Clivers is said to be useful for sunburn and freckles, a decoction or infusion of the fresh herb being used for this purpose, applied to the face by means of a soft cloth or sponge. </div> <div> The herb has a special curative reputation with reference to cancerous growths and allied tumours, an ointment being made from the leaves and stems wherewith to dress the ulcerated parts, the expressed juice at the same time being used internally. </div> <div> Clivers was also used as an ointment for scalds and burns in the fourteenth century, under the name of Heyryt, Cosgres, Clive and Tongebledes (Tonguebleed), the latter doubtless from its roughness due to the incurved hooks all over the plant. </div> <div> It was later used for colds, swellings, etc., the whole plant being rather astringent, and on account of this property being of service in some bleedings, as well as in diarrhoea. Clivers tea is still a rural remedy for colds in the head. </div> <div> The crushed herb is applied in France as a poultice to sores and blisters. </div> <div> Gerard writes of Clivers as a marvellous remedy for the bites of snakes, spiders and all venomous creatures, and quoting Pliny, says: 'A pottage made of Cleavers, a little mutton and oatmeal is good to cause lankness and keepe from fatnesse.' </div> <div> Culpepper recommends Clivers for earache. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>CHENOPODIUMS</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>BEDSTRAW, LADY'S</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>BEDSTRAW (HEDGE)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WOODRUFF</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>MADDER</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>CROSSWORT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Clover, Red</div> <div> Botanical: Trifolium pratense (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Trefoil. Purple Clover. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Blossoms. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Abundant in Britain, throughout Europe, Central and Northern Asia from the Mediterranean to the Arctic Circle and high up into the mountains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_50"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A perennial, but of short duration, generally abundant on meadow land of a light sandy nature, where it produces abundant blossom, forming an excellent mowing crop. Not of great value as a bee plant - the bees not working it for so long as they will the white variety. </div> <div> Several stems 1 to 2 feet high, arising from the one root, slightly hairy; leaves ternate, leaflets ovate, entire, nearly smooth, ending in long point often lighter coloured in centre, flowers red to purple, fragrant, in dense terminal ovoid or globular heads. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_50"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The fluid extract of <I>Trifolium</I> is used as an alterative and antispasmodic. An infusion made by 1 OZ. to 1 pint of boiling water may with advantage be used in cases of bronchial and whooping-cough. Fomentations and poultices of the herb have been used as localapplications to cancerous growths. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_20"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>1 drachm of fluid extract, 1 to 2 drachms of infusion. </div> <bR> <div> Cloves</div> <div> Botanical: Eugenia caryophyllata (THUMB.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Myrtaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Eugenia Aromatica. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Undeveloped flowers. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Molucca Islands, Southern Philippines. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_51"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A small evergreen tree, pyramidal, trunk soon divides into large branches covered with a smooth greyish bark; leaves large, entire, oblong, lanceolate (always bright green colour), which stand in pairs on short foot-stalks, when bruised very fragrant. Flowers grow in bunches at end of branches. </div> <div> At the start of the rainy season long greenish buds appear; from the extremity of these the corolla comes which is of a lovely rosy peach colour; as the corolla fades the calyx turns yellow, then red. The calyces, with the embryo seed, are at this stage beaten from the tree and when dried are the cloves of commerce. The flowers have a strong refreshing odour. If the seeds are allowed to mature, most of the pungency is lost. Each berry has only one seed. The trees fruit usually about eight or nine years after planting. The whole tree is highly aromatic. The spice was introduced into Europe from the fourth to the sixth century. </div> <div> The finest cloves come from Molucca and Pemba, where the trees grow better than anywhere else, but they are also imported from the East and West Indies, Mauritius and Brazil. </div> <div> In commerce the varieties are known by the names of the localities in which they are grown. Formerly Cloves were often adulterated, but as production increased the price lowered and fraud has decreased. Cloves contain a large amount of essential oil which is much used in medicine. When of good quality they are fat, oily, and dark brown in colour, and give out their oil when squeezed with the finger-nail. When pale colour and dry, they are of inferior quality and yield little oil. Clove stalks are some times imported, and are said to be strongerand more pungent even than the Cloves. </div> <div> Clove trees absorb an enormous amount of moisture, and if placed near water their weight is visibly increased after a few hours; dishonest dealers often make use of this knowledge in their dealings, and the powdered stems are often sold as pure powdered Cloves. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_37"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Volatile oil, gallotannic acid; two crystalline principles - Caryophyllin, which is odourless and appears to be a phylosterol, Eugenin; gum, resin, fibre. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_51"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The most stimulating and carminative of all aromatics; given in powder or infusion for nausea emesis, flatulence, languid indigestion and dyspepsia, and used chiefly to assist the action of other medicines. The medicinal properties reside in the volatile oil. The oil must be kept in dark bottles in a cool place. If distilled with water, salt must be added to raise the temperature of ebullition and the same Cloves must be distilled over and over again to get their full essence. </div> <div> The oil is frequently adulterated with fixed oil and oil of Pimento and Copaiba. As a local irritant it stimulates peristalsis. It is a strong germicide, a powerful antiseptic, a feeble local anaesthetic applied to decayed teeth, and has been used with success as a stimulating expectorant in phthisis and bronchial troubles. Fresh infusion of Cloves contains astringent matter as well as the volatile oil. The infusion and Clove water are good vehicles for alkalies and aromatics. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_21"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Fluid extract, 5 to 30 drops. Oil extract, 1 to 5 drops. Infusion, B.P., 1/2 to 1 OZ. </div> <bR> <div> Club Moss</div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>Moss, American Club</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Common Club</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Corsican</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Cup</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Hair Cap</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Iceland</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Irish</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>Moss, Sphagnum</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Coca, Bolivian</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <I>Steadman Shorter's Medical Dictionary</I>, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Poisons & Antidotes: </U><B><U>Cocaine</U></B></FONT> </div> <div> Botanical: Erythroxylon Coca (LAMK.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Linaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations and Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Adulterants</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Poisoning Antidotes</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Cuca. Cocaine. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Bolivia and Peru; cultivated in Ceylon and Java. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_52"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Small shrubby tree 12 to 18 feet high in the wild state and kept down to about 6 feet when cultivated. Grown from seeds and requires moisture and an equable temperature. Starts yielding in eighteen months and often productive over fifty years. The leaves are gathered three times a year, the first crop in spring, second in June, and third in October; must always be collected in dry weather. There are two varieties in commerce, the <I>Huanuco Coca</I>, or <I>Erythroxylon Coca</I>, which comes from Bolivia and has leaves of a brownish-green colour, oval, entire and glabrous, with a rather bitter taste, and Peruvian Coca, the leaves of which are much smaller and a pale-green colour. Coca leaves deteriorate very quickly in a damp atmosphere, and for this reason the alkaloid is extracted from the leaves in South America before <I>exportation</I>. The Coca shrubs of India and Ceylon were originally cultivated from plants sent out there from Kew Gardens and grown from seeds. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_38"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Coca leaves contain the alkaloids Cocaine, Annamyl Cocaine, andTruxilline or Cocamine. As a rule the Truxillo or Peruvian leaves contain more alkaloid than the Bolivian, though the latter are preferred for medicinal purposes. Java Coca contains tropacocaine and four yellow crystalline glucosides in addition to the other constituents. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_52"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The actions of Coca depend principally on the alkaloid Cocaine, but the whole drug is said to be more stimulating and to have a mild astringency. In Peru and Bolivia the leaves are extensively chewed to relieve hunger and fatigue, though the habit eventually ruins the health. Coca leaves are used as a cerebral and muscle stimulant, especially during convalescence, to relieve nausea, vomiting and pains of the stomach without upsetting the digestion. A tonic in neurasthenia and debilitated conditions. The danger of the formation of the habit, however, far outweighs any value the drug may possess, and use of Coca in any form is attended with grave risks. Cocaine is a general protoplasmic poison, having a special affinity for nervous tissue; it is a powerful local anaesthetic, paralysing the sensory nerve fibres. To obtain local cutaneous anaesthesia the drug is injected hypodermically. Applied to the eye it dilates the pupil and produces complete local anaesthesia. It is a general excitant of the central nervous system and the brain, especially the motor areas producing a sense of exhilaration and an incitement to effort; large doses cause hallucinations, restlessness, tremors and convulsions. Those acquiring the Cocaine habit suffer from emaciation, loss of memory, sleeplessness and delusions. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations and Dosages---</B>Elixir Coca, B.P.C., 1 to 4 fluid drachms. Extract of Coca, B.P.C., 2 to 10 grains. Liquid extract of Coca, B.P., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Fluid extract of Coca, U.S.P., 30 minims. Tincture of Coca, B.P.C., 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm. Coca Wine, B.P.C., 2 to 4 fluid drachms. Wine of Coca,, U.S.P., 4 fluid drachms. Cocaine, P.B., 1/20 to 1/2 grain. </div> <div>  <A NAME="adu_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Adulterants---</B>Coca leaves have sometimes been adulterated with those of Jaborandi. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Poisoning Antidotes---</B>Cocaine rarely enters the system through the alimentary canal, therefore the use of a stomach pump, emetics or chemical antidotes is not usual; strong coffee should be given as a stimulant by mouth or rectum and measures taken to prevent cardiac failure. </div> <bR> <div> Cocculus, Indicus</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Anamirta paniculata (COLEBR.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Menispermaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Levant Nut. Fish Berry. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Dried fruit. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>India, Ceylon, Malabar. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_53"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A poisonous climbing plant with ash-coloured corky bark, leaves stalked, heart-shaped, smooth, underside pale with tufts of hair at the junctions of the nerves and at the base of the leaves, the flowers are pendulous panicles, male and female blooms on different plants; fruit round and kidney shaped, outer coat thin, dry, browny, black and wrinkled, inside a hard white shell divided into two containing a whitish seed, crescent shaped and very oily. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_39"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The chief constituent is the bitter, crystalline, poisonous substance, picrotoxin; the seed also contains about 50 per cent. of fat. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_53"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The powdered berries are sometimes used as an ointment for destroying lice; the entire fruits are used to stupefy fish, being thrown on the water for that purpose. Picrotoxin is a powerful convulsive poison used principally to check night sweats in phthisis by its action in accelerating respiration, but it is not always successful. It was at one time used to adulterate beers, increasing their reputation as intoxicants; it is an antidote in Morphine poisoning. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract, 1/4 to 1 drop. Picrotoxin, B.P. </div> <bR> <div> Cocillana Bark</div> <div> Botanical: Guarea rusbyi (BRIT.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Meliaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Sycocarpus Rusbyi. Guarea trichiliodes. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Cuba. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_54"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A large Bolivian tree; flowers in axillary clusters; bark ashy grey on the older trees on account of lichen growths; the inner bark is generally thicker than the outer; fracture, coarse fibrous splinters; odour musk like; taste distinctive, astringent and nauseous; leaves pinnate and of peculiar growth, as the lower leaflets fall young ones grow at the end of the same leaf-stalk, which elongates, the lower outer portion becomes woody with an outer bark and a thin pith inside and grows into a branch. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_54"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The bark causes vomiting, and often prostration and nausea. In action very like ipecacuanha, but a more stimulating expectorant. Used with success in the treatment of bronchitis and pulmonary complaints. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract: dose, 5 to 20 drops. </div> <bR> <div> Cocklebur</div> <div> Botanical: Xanthium spinosum (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Annuals in group of Ambroisecae of the Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Spiny Clot Burr. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The whole plant. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>South Europe and naturalized in America near sea-coast, Central Asia northwards to the Baltic and many other parts of the globe. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Xanthic flowers belong to a type which are yellow in colour and can become white or red but never blue. These plants are spread as weeds or cultivated over a great part of the world. Stem annual, from 1 to 3 feet high, much branched and many spined; these are straw-coloured and divided about 1/4 inch from their base into three slender branches, diverging and sharp. Leaves lanceolate, acute, tapering to short leaf-stalks with two lobes at base; underside is covered with a thick white down. Flowers small, monoecious, those at apex sterile, while the fertile ones are at the base of the branchlets. Fruit, a rough burr with a short beak at the apex and covered densely with hooked prickles. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_55"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>A valuable and sure specific in the treatment of hydrophobia. An active styptic, local and general. Fluid extract, 1 to 2 drachms. 10 grains of the powdered plant, four times daily. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_19"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B><I>Xanthium Strumarium</I>, a coarse erect annual, 1 to 2 feet high, leaves on long stalks, large broadly heart-shaped, coarsely toothed or angular on both sides. Flower heads, greenish yellow, terminal clusters on short racemes, upper ones male, lower female, forming when in fruit ovoid burrs covered with hooked prickles. The short stout conical beaks erect or curved inwards. It is not a British plant, though is sometimes found there and in Ireland. </div> <bR> <div> Coffee</div> <div> Botanical: Coffea arabica (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rubiaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description and History</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents of Roasted Coffee</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dose</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Caffea. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Seeds, leaves, caffeine. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>South-west point of Abyssinia. and cultivated throughout the tropics. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_56"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description and History---</B>The name Coffee is derived from Caffa, a province of Abyssinia. In its wild state the tree grows to a height of 30 feet, but in cultivation it is kept shorter to expedite picking; it has evergreen leaves, smooth and shiny on the upper side, dark green under and paler, 6 inches long, 2 1/2 inches wide; flowers in dense clusters at base of leaves, white and very decorative, but only lasting in bloom two days; berries red and fleshy like small cherries, each berry two-seeded, convex on one side, flat on the other with a long furrowed line running lengthways and covered with a thin parchment which has to be winnowed or milled before roasting, after the outer pulp has been removed by a machine. The roasting develops the volatile oil and peculiar acid to which the aromas and flavours are due. The Coffee shrub was introduced into Arabia early in the fifteenth century from Abyssinia, and for two centuries Arabia supplied the world's Coffee; at the end of the seventeenth century the Dutch introduced the plant into Batavia, and from there a plant was presented to Louis XIV in 1714. All the Coffee now imported from Brazil has been imported from that single plant. The European use of Coffee dates from the sixteenth century when it was introduced into Constantinople, and a century later in 1652 the first Coffee shop was opened in London. In 1858 the quantity imported into the United Kingdom was over sixty million pounds. In Turkey the consumption is enormous, and so necessary is it considered that the refusal to supply a reasonable amount to a Turk's wife is considered a legal cause for divorce. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_40"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents of Roasted Coffee---</B>Oil, wax, caffeine, aromatic oil, tannic acid, caffetannic acid, gum, sugar, protein. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_56"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>An active brain stimulant, which produces sleeplessness, hence its great value in narcotic poisoning; in acute cases is injected into the rectum. Very valuable in cases of snake-bite, helping to ward off the terrible coma. It also exerts a soothing action on the vascular system, preventing a too rapid wasting of the tissues of the body; these effects are not only due to the volatile oil but to the caffeine it contains. The Malays infuse the leaves, which contain even more caffeine than the berries. Caffeine is valuable for heart disease, ascites and pleuritic effusion and combines well with digitalis; also valuable in cases of inebrity; is a powerful diuretic, but loses its effect with use. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_22"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dose---</B>Preparation Caffeine, 1 to 5 grains. </div> <bR> <div> Cohosh, Black</div> <div> Botanical: Cimicifuga racemosa (NUTT.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Black Snake Root. Rattle Root. Squaw Root. Bugbane. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>A native of North America, where it grows freely in shady woods in Canada and the United States. It is called Black Snake Root to distinguish it from the Common Snake Root (<I>Aristolochia serpentaria</I>). </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_57"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The seeds are sent annually to Europe, and should be sown as soon as the season will permit. It flowers in June or early in July, but does not perfect seed in England, though it thrives well in moist shady borders and is perfectly hardy. It is a tall, herbaceous plant, with feathery racemes of white blossoms, 1 to 3 feet long, which being slender, droop gracefully. The fruits are dry. </div> <div> The plant produces a stout, blackish rhizome (creeping underground stem), cylindrical, hard and knotty, bearing the remains of numerous stout ascending branches. It is collected in the autumn after the fruit is formed and the leaves have died down, then cut into pieces and dried. It has only a faint, disagreeable odour, but a bitter and acrid taste. </div> <div> The straight, stout, dark brown roots which are given off from the under surface of the rhizome are bluntly quadrangular and furrowed. In the dried drug, they are brittle, broken off usually quite close to the rhizome. In transverse section, they show several wedge-shaped bundles of porous, whitish wood. A similar section of the rhizome shows a large dark-coloured, horny pith, surrounded by a ring of numerous pale wedges of wood, alternately with dark rays, outside which is a thin, dark, horny bark. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_41"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The chief constituent of Cimicifuga root is the amorphous resinous substance known as Cimicifugin, or Macrotin, of which it contains about 18 per cent but the bitter taste is due to a crystalline principle named Racemosin. The drug also contains two resins, together with fat, wax starch, gum, sugar and an astringent substance. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_57"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Astringent, emmenagogue, diuretic, alterative, expectorant. The root of this plant is much used in America in many disorders, and is supposed to be an antidote against poison and the bite of the rattlesnake. The fresh root, dug in October, is used to make a tincture. </div> <div> In small doses, it is useful in children's diarrhoea. </div> <div> In the paroxyms of consumption, it gives relief by allaying the cough, reducing the rapidity of the pulse and inducing perspiration. In whooping-cough, it proves very effective. </div> <div> The infusion and decoction have been given with success in rheumatism. </div> <div> In infantile disorders, it is given in the form of syrup. It is said to be a specific in St. Vitus' Dance of children. Overdoses produce nausea and vomiting. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract, U.S.P., 15 to 30 drops. Fluid extract, B.P., 5 to 30 drops. Tincture, U.S.P., 1 drachm. Tincture, B.P., 15 to 60 drops. Cimicifugin, 1 to 6 grains. Powdered extract, U.S.P., 4 grains. </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>BANEBERRY</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cohosh, Blue</div> <div> Botanical: Caulophyllum thalictroides (MICH.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Berberidaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Doses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Pappoose Root. Squawroot. Blueberry Root. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>United States and Canada. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_58"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A handsome perennial plant, growing in low rich, moist, soil in swamps and near running streams, smooth and glaucous, and bears in May and June a panicle of small yellowish green flowers and one or two seeds about the size of a large pea, which ripen in August. These are sometimes roasted and boiled in water, and given as a decoction resembling coffee. </div> <div> The berries are dry and mawkish; the root is a hard thick, irregular, knotty, contorted caudex, one to several inches long, with long slender radicles up to 8 inches long, externally yellowy brown, internally whitish to yellow, with a central pith running longitudinally; taste, sweetish-bitter, then acrid and pungent, with a slightly (pungent) fragrant odour; yields its properties to alcohol, water or glycerine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_42"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Gum, starch, salts, extractive, phosphoric acid, soluble resin, greenish-yellow colouring matter, and a body analogous to Saponin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_58"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Emmenagogue, antispasmodic, diuretic, diaphoretic and anthelmintic. Said to be successfully used in rheumatism, dropsy, epilepsy, hysteria and uterine inflammation, specially for chronic cases. It is sometimes combined with Mitchella repens and Eupatoria aromatica. In use it is preferable to Ergot, expediting delivery, where delay results from debility, fatigue or want of uterine nervous energy. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_23"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Doses---</B>Decoction or Infusion. 1 OZ. of root to 1 pint of boiling water, macerated for 1/2 hour. Dose, 2 to 4 fluid ounces three or four times a day. </div> <div> <B>---Tincture---</B>3 oz. of finely powdered root to 1 pint of alcohol, allowed to soak for two weeks, then well shaken and filtered. Dose, 1/2 fluid drachm to 2 fluid drachms. Fluid extract, 10 to 30 drops. Solid extract, 5 to 10 grains. Caulophyllum, 2 to 5 grains. </div> <bR> <div> Colchicum</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>(Meadow) Saffron</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Cole Seed</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Mustard</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Colocynth</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>(Bitter) Apple</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Coltsfoot</div> <div> Botanical: Tussilago Farfara (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Parts Used</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Coughwort. Hallfoot. Horsehoof. Ass's Foot. Foalswort. Fieldhove. Bullsfoot. Donnhove. (<I>French</I>) Pas d'âne </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Leaves, flowers, root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Coltsfoot grows abundantly throughout England, especially along the sides of railway banks and in waste places, on poor stiff soils, growing as well in wet ground as in dry situations. It has long-stalked, hoof-shaped leaves, about 4 inches across, with angular teeth on the margins. Both surfaces are covered, when young, with loose, white, felted woolly hairs, but those on the upper surface fall off as the leaf expands. This felty covering easily rubs off and before the introduction of matches, wrapped in a rag dipped in a solution of saltpetre and dried in the sun, used to be considered an excellent tinder. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_59"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The specific name of the plant is derived from <I>Farfarus</I>, an ancient name of the White Poplar, the leaves of which present some resemblance in form and colour to those of this plant. There is a closer resemblance, however, to the leaves of the Butterbur, which must not be collected in error; they may be distinguished by their more rounded outline, larger size and less sinuate margin. </div> <div> After the leaves have died down, the shoot rests and produces in the following February a flowering stem, consisting of a single peduncle with numerous reddish bracts and whitish hairs and a terminal, composite yellow flower, whilst other shoots develop leaves, which appear only much later, after the flower stems in their turn have died down. These two parts of the plant, both of which are used medicinally, are, therefore, collected separately and usually sold separately. </div> <div> The root is spreading, small and white, and has also been used medicinally. </div> <div> An old name for Coltsfoot was <I>Filius ante patrem</I> (the son before the father), because the star-like, golden flowers appear and wither before the broad, sea-green leaves are produced. </div> <div> The seeds are crowned with a tuft of silky hairs, the <I>pappus</I>, which are often used by goldfinches to line their nests, and it has been stated were in former days frequently employed by the Highlanders for stuffing mattresses and pillows. </div> <div> The underground stems preserve their vitality for a long period when buried deeply, so that in places where the plant has not been observed before, it will often spring up in profusion after the ground has been disturbed. In gardens and pastures it is a troublesome weed, very difficult to extirpate. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Parts Used---</B>The leaves, collected in June and early part of July, and, to a slighter extent, the flower-stalks collected in February. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_43"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>All parts of the plant abound in mucilage, and contain a little tannin and a trace of a bitter amorphous glucoside. The flowers contain also a phytosterol and a dihydride alcohol, Faradial. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_59"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Demulcent, expectorant and tonic. One of the most popular of cough remedies. It is generally given together with other herbs possessing pectoral qualities, such as Horehound, Marshmallow, Ground Ivy, etc. </div> <div> The botanical name, <I>Tussilago, signifies</I> 'cough dispeller,' and Coltsfoot has justly been termed 'nature's best herb for the lungs and her most eminent thoracic.' The smoking of the leaves for a cough has the recommendation of Dioscorides, Galen, Pliny, Boyle, and other great authorities, both ancient and modern, Linnaeus stating that the Swedes of his time smoked it for that purpose. Pliny recommended the use of both roots and leaves. The leaves are the basis of the British Herb Tobacco, in which Coltsfoot predominates, the other ingredients being Buckbean, Eyebright, Betony, Rosemary, Thyme, Lavender, and Chamomile flowers. This relieves asthma and also the difficult breathing of old bronchitis. Those suffering from asthma, catarrh and other lung troubles derive much benefit from smoking this Herbal Tobacco, the use of which does not entail any of the injurious effects of ordinary tobacco. </div> <div> A decoction is made of 1 OZ. of leaves, in 1 quart of water boiled down to a pint, sweetened with honey or liquorice, and taken in teacupful doses frequently. This is good for both colds and asthma. </div> <div> Coltsfoot tea is also made for the same purpose, and Coltsfoot Rock has long been a domestic remedy for coughs. </div> <div> A decoction made so strong as to be sweet and glutinous has proved of great service in scrofulous cases, and, with Wormwood, has been found efficacious in calculus complaints. </div> <div> The flower-stalks contain constituents similar to those of the leaves, and are directed by the British Pharmacopceia to be employed in the preparation of Syrup of Coltsfoot, which is much recommended for use in chronic bronchitis. </div> <div> In Paris, the Coltsfoot flowers used to be painted as a sign on the doorpost of an apothecarie's shop. </div> <div> Culpepper says: </div> <div> 'The fresh leaves, or juice, or syrup thereof, is good for a bad dry cough, or wheezing and shortness of breath. The dry leaves are best for those who have their rheums and distillations upon their lungs causing a cough: for which also the dried leaves taken as tobacco, or the root is very good. The distilled water hereof simply or with elder-flowers or nightshade is a singularly good remedy against all agues, to drink 2 OZ. at a time and apply cloths wet therein to the head and stomach, which also does much good being applied to any hot swellings or inflammations. It helpeth St. Anthony's fire (erysypelas) and burnings, and is singular good to take away wheals.' </div> <div> One of the local names for Coltsfoot, viz. Donnhove, seems to have been derived from <I>Donn</I>, an old word for horse, hence <I>Donkey</I> (a little horse). Donnhove became corrupted to Tun-hoof as did Hay-hove (a name for Ground Ivy) to ale-hoof. </div> <div> The plant is so dissimilar in appearance at different periods that both Gerard and Parkinson give two illustrations: one entitled 'Tussilago florens, Coltsfoot in floure,' and the other, 'Tussilaginous folia, the leaves of Coltsfoot,' or 'Tussilago herba sine flore.' </div> <div> 'Coltsfoot hath many white and long creeping roots, from which rise up naked stalkes about a spanne long, bearing at the top yellow floures; when the stalke and seede is perished there appeare springing out of the earth many broad leaves, green above, and next the ground of a white, hoarie, or grayish colour. Seldom, or never, shall you find leaves and floures at once, but the floures are past before the leaves come out of the ground, as may appear by the first picture, which setteth forth the naked stalkes and floures, and by the second, which porttraiteth the leaves only.' </div> <div> Pliny and many of the older botanists thought that the Coltsfoot was without leaves, an error that is scarcely excusable, for, notwithstanding the fact that the flowers appear in a general way before the leaves, small leaves often begin to make their appearance before the flowering season is over. </div> <div> Pliny recommends the dried leaves and roots of Coltsfoot to be burnt, and the smoke drawn into the mouth through a reed and swallowed, as a remedy for an obstinate cough, the patient sipping a little wine between each inhalation. To derive the full benefit from it, it had to be burnt on cypress charcoal. </div> <bR> <div> Columbine</div> <div> Botanical: Aquilegia vulgaris (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Culverwort (Saxon). </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Leaves, root, seeds. </div> <div> The Columbine, though a wild flower in this country, found occasionally in woods and copses, and in open clearings (generally on a calcareous soil), is more familiar as a garden plant. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_60"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>From its branching and fibrous root, which is blackish and rather stout, springs a large tuft of leaves, dark and bluish green on the upper surfaces and greyish beneath. These lowest leaves are on long foot-stalks and are large, having a terminal group of three leaflets, and below them on each side another group of three leaflets. The stem-leaves get gradually smaller, the higher they grow up the stem, the uppermost being without stalks and merely threelobed. The flower stems are 1 to 2 feet high, erect and slender, often reddish in colour, branching into a loose head of flowers, which are 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter and drooping. </div> <div> The only variety in which the flowers are not drooping is <I>Aquilegia parviflora</I>, which Ledebour describes with the flowers perfectly erect. </div> <div> When growing wild, the flowers are usually blue or dull purple, occasionally white. The Columbine may be distinguished from all other British flowers, by having each of its five petals terminated in an incurved, hornlike spur. The petals are tubular and dilated at the other extremity. </div> <div> The flowers are perfumed like hay. </div> <div> The plant is in blossom throughout May and June. Its fruit is composed of five carpels, cylindrical in form, with pointed ends like a cluster of little pea-pods, each carpel (or seed vessel) containing many smooth, dark-coloured seeds, which are freely shed when ripe, so that the parent plant is generally the centre of a little colony of seedlings. </div> <div> The generic name of <I>Aquilegia</I> is derived from the Latin <I>aquila</I> (an eagle), the spurs of the flowers being considered to resemble an eagle's talons. The popular name, Columbine, is from the Latin <I>columba</I> (a dove or pigeon), from the idea that the flowers resemble a flight of these birds. A still older name, <I>Culverwort</I>, has the same reference wort being the Saxon word for a plant and <I>culfre</I> meaning a pigeon. </div> <div> The Columbine is a favourite old-fashioned garden-flower, being mentioned by Tusser (1580) among a list of flowers suitable 'for windows and pots', Parkinson, in 1629, speaks of the many varieties grown in gardens. </div> <div> It was one of the badges of the House of Lancaster and also of the family of Derby. The flower is referred to in <I>Hamlet</I> and in one of Ben Jonson's poems: </div> <div> 'Bring cornflag, tulip and Adonis flower, </div> <div> Fair Oxeye, goldylocks and columbine.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_60"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Astringent. It has been employed on the continent, but according to Linnaeus, with very unsatisfactory results, children having sometimes been poisoned by it when given in too large doses. It is no longer used. </div> <div> Culpepper tells us: </div> <div> 'The leaves of Columbine are successfully used in lotions for sore mouths and throats. . . . The Spaniards used to eat a piece of the root thereof in a morning fasting many days together, to help them when troubled with stone. The seed taken in wine with a little saffron removes obstructions of the liver and is good for the yellow jaundice.' </div> <bR> <div> Columbo, American</div> <div> Botanical: Frasera Carolinensis (WALT.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Gentianaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>American Calumba. American Colombo. Radix Colombo Americanae. Frasera Walteri. Frasera Canadensis. Faux Colombo. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The dried root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Middle and Southern United States and west of the Alleghanies. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_61"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B><I>Frasera Carolinensis</I> is chiefly known as an occasional substitute for Calurnba Root, or <I>Jateorrhiza Colurnba</I>, a native of Mozambique. The English name is derived from the African <I>Kalumb</I>. </div> <div> It is a plant of from 4 to 9 feet in height, with a smooth, erect stem, bearing lanceolate leaves in whorls, and yellowish-white flowers in terminal panicles. The roots are triennial, horizontal, long, and yellow. They should be collected in the autumn of the second or the spring of the third year and cut into transverse slices before being dried. When sliced longitudinally they have been put on the market as American Gentian, and when fresh, their properties closely resemble <I>Gentiana Lutea</I>, the European Yellow Gentian. The sliced root as found in the market has a reddish-brown epidermis, yellow cortex and spongy centre. The taste is slightly bitter and saccharine. It may be distinguished from true Colombo Root by the absence of concentric circles, and the smaller, thicker slices. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_44"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The root contains a peculiar acid, bitter extractive, gum, pectin, glucose, wax, resin, fatty matter, and yellowcolouring matter. </div> <div> It may be distinguished from Calumba by the absence of starch (though it contains tannin), and by its change of colour when treated with sulphate of iron, remaining unchanged by tincture of iodine or galls. It has not the pectine of gentians. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_61"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Uses---</B>Tonic, cathartic, emetic stimulant. When dried it is a simple bitter that may be used in a similar way to gentian. In its fresh state it is cathartic and emetic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_24"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosages---</B>Of powder, 1 to 3 grains. Of infusion of 1 fluid ounce to 1 pint of boiling water - 2 fluid ounces a day. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_20"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Other Species---</B> </div> <div> <I>Coscinium fenestratum</I> is the Columbowood or false Columbo of Ceylon. </div> <bR> <div> Combretum</div> <div> Botanical: Combretum sundaicum (MIF.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Combretaceae Myrobalans</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Jungle Weed. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Roasted leaves, stalks. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, and the tropical regions of both Hemispheres </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_62"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Leaves odourless, taste astringent. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_62"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The leaves and stalks roasted have long been used in China in the form of a decoction, as a cure for the opium habit, the daily dose of opium is added to a decoction of the leaves and the patient is given 1 fluid ounce of the mixture every four hours. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_45"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Combretum contains a large proportion of tannic acid and traces of a glucoside. </div> <bR> <div> Comfrey</div> <div> Botanical: Symphytum officinale (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Boraginaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Parts Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Common Comfrey. Knitbone. Knitback. Consound. Blackwort. Bruisewort. Slippery Root. Boneset. Yalluc (Saxon). Gum Plant. Consolida. Ass Ear. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Root, leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>A native of Europe and temperate Asia; is common throughout England on the banks of rivers and ditches, and in watery places generally. </div> <div> This well-known showy plant is a member of the Borage and Forget-me-not tribe, <I>Boraginaceae</I>. </div> <div> The plant is erect in habit and rough and hairy all over. There is a branched rootstock, the roots are fibrous and fleshy spindle-shaped, an inch or less in diameter and up to a foot long, smooth, blackish externally, and internally white, fleshy and juicy. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The leafy stem, 2 to 3 feet high, is stout, angular and hollow, broadly winged at the top and covered with bristly hairs. The lower, radical leaves are very large, up to 10 inches long, ovate in shape and covered with rough hairs which promote itching when touched. The stem-leaves are decurrent, i.e. a portion of them runs down the stem, the body of the leaf being continued beyond its base and point of attachment with the stem. They decrease in size the higher they grow up the stem, which is much branched above and terminated by one-sided clusters of drooping flowers, either creamy yellow, or purple, growing on short stalks. These racemes of flowers are given off in pairs, and are what is known as scorpoid in form, the curve they always assume suggesting, as the word implies, the curve of a scorpion's tail, the flowers being all placed on one side of the stem, gradually tapering from the fully-expanded blossom to the final and almost imperceptible bud at the extremity of the curve, as in the Forget-meNot. The corollas are bell-shaped, the calyx deeply five-cleft, narrow to lance-shaped, spreading, more downy in the purpleflowered type. The fruit consists of four shining nutlets, perforated at the base, and adhering to the receptacle by their base. Comfrey is in bloom throughout the greater part of the summer, the first flowers opening at the end of April or early May. </div> <div> The creamy yellow-flowered form is stated by Hooker to be <I>Symphytum officinale</I> proper, and the purple flowered he considered a variety and named it <I>S. officinale</I>, var <I>patens</I>. The botanist Sibthorpe makes a definite species of it under the name <I>patens</I>. </div> <div> There is another species, <I>S. tuberosum</I>, found in wet places from North Wales, Stafford and Lincoln northwards into Scotland, and most common in the south of Scotland, though absent from Ireland. </div> <div> In this form, the stem is scarcely branched and but slightly winged, the bases of the leaves being hardly at all continued down the stem. Though also covered with hairs, the latter are not so bristly. The root-stock is short and horizontal with slender root fibres. This is a much smaller plant, the stem rarely more than a foot high, rather slender and leafy. The lower radical leaves are much as in <I>S. officinale</I> in form, but with longer footstalks. The flowers, creamy-yellow in colour though about the same size as those of <I>S. officinale</I>, are in much smaller masses. </div> <div> The Common Comfrey is abundantly met with in England, but is rare in Scotland; the tuberous Comfrey is commonly found in Scotland, but is seldom met with in England, the northern counties of England and North Wales being its extreme southern limit, so that except in the narrow zone of country common to both, there will be no possibility of mistaking the one species for the other. </div> <div> The variety of <I>S. officinale</I>, with a purplish flower, is more common in many parts of the Continent than in England. The purple and yellowish flowers are not found mixed where the plants grow wild: the difference in colour is permanent in plants raised from seed. </div> <div> [In the water-meadows which form such a well-known feature in South Wilts, especially in the valleys round about Salisbury, Common Comfrey is abundant, and the flowers vary in colour from creamy-white to a pretty rose-pink; while the purple sort is the commonest. - <I>Note by a Wiltshire writer</I>.] </div> <div> A variety with flowers of a rich blue colour <I>S. Asperimum</I>, Prickly Comfrey, was introduced into this country from the Caucasus in 1811 as a fodder plant. This species is the largest of the genus, rising to 5 feet and more, with prickly stems and bold foliage, the leaves very large and oval, the hairs on them having bulbous bases. It was extensively recommended as a green food for most animals, it being claimed for it that it contained a considerable amount of flesh-forming substances, and was, moreover, both preventative and curative of foot and mouth disease in cattle. It has the advantage of producing large crops, two at least in a season, if cut before the flowers quite expand, and in favourable circumstances even more, so that 40 to 50 tons of green food per acre might be reckoned on. At the time of its introduction, a number of farmers and smallholders planted it. It was found, however that though horses, cattle and pigs would eat it, they never took kindly to it as a forage. Horses in time of scarcity will eat it in small quantities in the green state, though do not care for it dried. It is a useful food in the green state for pigs of all ages, but it takes a little time for them to get used to it. Its feeding value, however, has been proved to be not so very much more than that of grass and though it grows luxuriantly in all moist situations, where the soil is pretty good, it is not adapted for either dry or poor land. </div> <div> The following is the result of an analysis of <I>S. Asperimum</I>, by Professor Voelcker: </div> <div>  </div> <div>                                           LEAVES                 STEM</div> <div>                                  In Natural      Calc.   In Natural   Calc.</div> <div>                                    State         Dry       State       Dry</div> <bR> <div> Water                              88.400         --       94.74       --</div> <div> Flesh-forming substances            2.712       23.37        .69     13.06</div> <div> Non-nitrogenized substances:</div> <div>   Heat and fat-producing matters    6.898       59.49       3.81     72.49</div> <div>   Inorganic matters (ash)            .990         .14        .76     14.45</div> <div>                                    ______      ______     ______    ______</div> <div>                                    100.00      100.00     100.00    100.00</div> <div> On comparison the above figures will show this plant to be almost equal to some of our more important green-food crops; and certainly if we take into consideration the quantity of its produce, there are few plants capable of yielding so much green food as the Comfrey. Dr. Voelcker says that 'the amount of flesh-forming substances is considerable. The juice of this plant contains much gum and mucilage, and little sugar.' </div> <div> Formerly country people cultivated Comfrey in their gardens for its virtue in wound healing, and the many local names of the plant testify to its long reputation as a vulnerary herb - in the Middle Ages it was a famous remedy for broken bones. The very name, Comfrey, is a corruption of <I>con firma</I>, in allusion to the uniting of bones it was thought to effect, and the botanical name, <I>Symphytum</I>, is derived from the Greek <I>symphyo</I> (to unite). </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Comfrey thrives in almost any soil or situation, but does best under the shade of trees. </div> <div> Propagation may be effected either by seed or by division of roots in the autumn: the roots are very brittle, and the least bit of root will start growing afresh. They should be planted about 2 1/2 feet apart each way, and will need no further care except to keep them clear from weeds. </div> <div> As a green crop they will yield largely if well-rotted manure be dug between the rows when dressing for winter. </div> <div> As an ornamental plant, Comfrey is often introduced into gardens, from which it is very difficult to eradicate it when it has once established itself, a new plant arising from any severed portion of the root. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_11"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Parts Used Medicinally---</B>The root and leaves, generally collected from wild plants. </div> <div> Comfrey leaves are sometimes found as an adulteration to Foxglove leaves, which they somewhat resemble, but may be distinguished by the smaller veins not extending into the wings of the leaf-stalk, and by having on their surface isolated stiff hairs. They are also more lanceolate than Foxglove leaves. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_46"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>The chief and most important constituent of Comfrey root is mucilage, which it contains in great abundance, more even than Marshmallow. It also contains from 0.6 to 0.8 per cent. of Allantoin and a little tannin. Starch is present in a very small amount. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_63"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Demulcent, mildly astringent and expectorant. As the plant abounds in mucilage, it is frequently given whenever a mucilaginous medicine is required and has been used like Marshmallow for intestinal troubles. It is very similar in its emollient action to Marshmallow, but in many cases is even preferred to it and is an ingredient in a large number of herbal preparations. It forms a gentle remedy in cases of diarrhoea and dysentery. A decoction is made by boiling 1/2 to 1 OZ. of crushed root in 1 quart of water or milk, which is taken in wineglassful doses, frequently. </div> <div> For its demulcent action it has long been employed domestically in lung troubles and also for quinsy and whooping-cough. The root is more effectual than the leaves and is the part usually used in cases of coughs. It is highly esteemed for all pulmonary complaints, consumption and bleeding of the lungs. A strong decoction, or tea, is recommended in cases of internal haemorrhage, whether from the lungs, stomach, bowels or from bleeding piles -to be taken every two hours till the haemorrhage ceases, in severe cases, a teaspoonful of Witch Hazel extract being added to the Comfrey root tea. </div> <div> A modern medicinal tincture, employed by homoeopaths, is made from the root with spirits of wine, 10 drops in a tablespoonful of water being administered several times a day. </div> <div> Comfrey leaves are of much value as an external remedy, both in the form of fomentations, for sprains, swellings and bruises, and as a poultice, to severe cuts, to promote suppuration of boils and abscesses, and gangrenous and ill-conditioned ulcers . The whole plant, beaten to a cataplasm and applied hot as a poultice, has always been deemed excellent for soothing pain in any tender, inflamed or suppurating part. It was formerly applied to raw, indolent ulcers as a glutinous astringent. It is useful in any kind of inflammatory swelling. </div> <div> Internally, the leaves are taken in the form of an infusion, 1 OZ. of the leaves to 1 pint of boiling water. </div> <div> Fluid extract: dose, 1/2 to 2 drachms. </div> <div> The reputation of Comfrey as a vulnerary has been considered due partly to the fact of its reducing the swollen parts in the immediate neighbourhood of fractures, causing union to take place with greater facility. Gerard affirmed: 'A salve concocted from the fresh herb will certainly tend to promote the healing of bruised and broken parts.' Surgeons have declared that the powdered root, if dissolved in water to a mucilage, is far from contemptible for bleedings and fractures, whilst it hastens the callus of bones under repair. Its virtues as a vulnerary are now attributed to the Allantoin it contains. According to Macalister (<I>British Medical Journal</I>, Jan. 6, 1912), Allantoin in aqueous solution in strengths of 0.3 per cent has a powerful action in strengthening epithelial formations, and is a valuable remedy not only in external ulceration, but also in ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. Comfrey Root is used as a source of this cell proliferant Allantoin, employed in the dealing of chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, etc., though Allantoin is also made artificially. </div> <div> The following is from the <I>Chemist and Druggist</I> of August 13, 1921: </div> <div> 'Allantoin is a fresh instance of the good judgment of our rustics, especially of old times, with regard to the virtues of plants. The great Comfrey or consound, though it was official with us down to the middle of the eighteenth century, never had a very prominent place in professional practice; but our herbalists were loud in its praise and the country culler of simples held it almost infallible as a remedy for both external and internal wounds bruises, and ulcers, for phlegm, for spitting of blood, ruptures, haemorrhoids, etc. For ulcers of the stomach and liver especially, the root (the part used) was regarded as of sovereign virtue. It is precisely for such complaints as these that Allantoin, obtained from the rhizome of the plant, is now prescribed. One old <I>Syrupus de Symphyto</I> was a rather complicated preparation. Gerard has a better formula, also a compound, which he highly recommends for ulcers of the lungs. The old Edinburgh formula is the simplest and probably the best: Fresh Comfrey leaves and fresh plantain leaves, of each lb.ss.; bruise them and well squeeze out the juice, add to the dregs spring water lb.ij.; boil to half, and mix the strained liquor with the expressed juice; add an equal quantity of white sugar and boil to a syrup.' </div> <div> Culpepper says: </div> <div> 'The great Comfrey ("great" to distinguish it from the "Middle Comfrey" - another name for the Bugle) restrains spitting of blood. The root boiled in water or wine and the decoction drank, heals inward hurts, bruises, wounds and ulcers of the lungs, and causes the phlegm that oppresses him to be casily spit forth.... A syrup made there of is very effectual in inward hurts, and the distilled water for the same purpose also, and for outward wounds or sores in the fleshy or sinewy parts of the body, and to abate the fits of agues and to allay the sharpness of humours. A decoction of the leaves is good for those purposes, but not so effectual as the roots. The roots being outwardly applied cure fresh wounds or cuts immediately, being bruised and laid thereto; and is specially good for ruptures and broken bones, so powerful to consolidate and knit together that if they be boiled with dissevered pieces of flesh in a pot, it will join them together again.' </div> <div> He goes on to describe its curative effect on haemorrhoids and continues: </div> <div> 'The roots of Comfrey taken fresh, beaten small and spread upon leather and laid upon any place troubled with the gout presently gives ease: and applied in the same manner it eases pained joints and tends to heal running ulcers, gangrenes, mortifications, for which it hath by often experience been found helpful.' </div> <div> The young leaves form a good green vegetable, and are not infrequently eaten by country people. When fully grown they become, however, coarse and unpleasant in taste. They have been used to flavour cakes and other food. </div> <div> In some parts of Ireland Comfrey is eaten as a cure for defective circulation and poverty of blood, being regarded as a perfectly safe and harmless remedy. </div> <div> Comfrey roots, together with Chichory and Dandelion roots, are used to make a well-known vegetation 'Coffee,' that tastes practically the same as ordinary coffee, with none of its injurious effects. </div> <div> A strong decoction has been used on the Continent for tanning leather, and in Angora a sort of glue is got from the common Comfrey, which is used for spinning the famous fleeces of that country. </div> <div> In that inimitable little book by Russell George Alexander, called <I>A Plain Plantain</I>, in which he quotes from an old MS. inscribed 'Madam Susanna Avery, Her Book, May ye 12th Anno Domini 1688,' we find the following reference to Comfrey: 'From the French <I>conserve</I>, Latin <I>conserva</I> - healing: <I>conserves</I> - to boil together; to heal. A Wound Herb.' 'The roots,' says a sixteenthcentury writer, 'heal all inwarde woundes and burstings,' and Baker (<I>Jewell of Health</I>, 1567) says: 'The water of the Greater Comferie druncke helpeth such as are bursten, and that have broken the bone of the legge.' In cookery, the leaves gathered young may be used as a substitute for Spinach; the young shoots have been eaten after blanching by forcing them to grow through heaps of earth. </div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>BORAGE</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Compass Plant</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Cup Plant</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Condurango</div> <div> Botanical: Gonolobus Condurango (NICHOLS) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Asclepiadaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dose</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Caution</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Condurango Blanco. Marsdenia Condurango. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Bark. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Ecuador, South America. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_64"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The product of an asclepiadaceous vine about 30 feet long and 2 feet in diameter. The bark is beaten with a mallet to separate it from the stem when it has been sun-dried. In commerce it occurs in quilled pieces 2 to 4 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter. External surface, pale greyish brown to dark brown, nearly smooth, more or less scaly and roughened, with numerous warts or lenticels, the scales soft with sometimes a brownish-black fungus on them, inner side whity brown and longitudinally striate; fracture short, fibrous, granular; odour slightly aromatic, specially in the fresh drug; taste bitter and aromatic; yields not more than 12 per cent of ash. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_47"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A large quantity of tannin, a glucoside and an alkaloid resembling strychnine in its action. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_64"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic stomachic, alterative. Has been regarded as a potential remedy for cancer and is useful in the early stages, but has no effect in the progress of the disease. There are many varieties of the plant, and the species experimented with in cancer is the <I>Condurango blanco</I>, which may be considered a genuine <I>C. Cortex</I>. It is largely used in South America as an alterative in chronic syphilis and is of great benefit. </div> <div> It increases the circulation. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_25"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dose---</B>Fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 drachm. </div> <div>  <A NAME="cau"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Caution---</B>Overdoses produce convulsions, ending in paralysis, vertigo and disturbed sight. </div> <bR> <div> Contrayerva</div> <div> Botanical: Dorstenia Contrayerva (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Urticaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dose</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Dorstenia Houstoni (LINN.). </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Root. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Native of Mexico, West Indies and Peru. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_65"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Name derived from a Spanish-American word signifying counterpoison or antidote. It is probable that the root sold as Contrayerva is derived from several species of Dorstenia, others being <I>Dorstenia Houstoni</I> and <I>D. Drabena</I>, the former growing near Campeachy, the latter near Vera Cruz. The official root is the product of <I>D. Brasiliensis</I> and comes from Brazil. The commercial root is oblong, 1 or 2 inches long, thickness varies, hard rough solid, outside reddish brown, paler inside, odour aromatic, taste warm, bitter, pungent, rootlets notas strong as main tubes. The root properties are extracted by alcohol and boiling water, and makes a very mucilaginous decoction. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_48"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Cajupine and contrayerbine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_65"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stimulant, tonic, and diaphoretic; given in cases of low fevers, typhoid, dysentery, diarrhoea, and other illnesses needing a stimulant. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_26"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dose---</B>1/2 drachm of powdered root, or 1 oz. to 1 pint infused in boiling water. </div> <bR> <div> Convolvulus, Field</div> <div> Botanical: Convolvulus arvensis (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Convolvulaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Cornbind. Ropebind. Withywind. Bearwind. Jack-run'-in'-the-Country. Devil's Garters. Hedge Bells. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Root, root resin. </div> <div> Although the blossoms of the Field Convolvulus (<I>C. arvensis</I>) are some of the prettiest and daintiest of our native wild-flowers, the plant which bears them ranks among the most troublesome of weeds to the farmer not only creeping up his hedges, but strangling his corn and spreading over everything within its reach. In North America it has intruded as a most unwelcome immigrant, persistently covering the ground with its trailing stems. </div> <div> Its roots run very deeply into the ground and extend over a large area. It is, therefore, extremely difficult to extirpate, for the long roots are brittle and readily snap, and any portion left in the ground will soon grow as vigorously as ever and send up shoots to the surface, so that in a very brief time it is again spreading over the ground and climbing over everything in its way. </div> <div> Its delicate creeping stems grow with great rapidity, either when found on banks trailing along the ground amidst the grass or climbing wherever they find a support. Their ends swing slowly and continuously in circles and twine round anything with which they may happen to come in contact. It has been found that a Bindweed stem in favourable circumstances will make a complete revolution in about 1 3/4 hours, which explains the rapidity of its growth. </div> <div> The generic name of the plant is derived from the Latin <I>convolvo</I> (to intertwine), and is descriptive of its general growth, for it does not, like many climbers, support itself by tendrils, but the whole plant twists itself tightly round the object that supports it - ordinarily a stalk of corn, or some other plant or object of similar size: it is never found twining round anything of bulky dimensions, such as gate-posts, etc. Its English name, Bindweed, is similarly given it for its habit of twining round and matting together all other plants near it. The Latin specific name, arvensis, is derived from arvum (a cornfield), because this species of Convolvulus, though commonly enough met with in waste places, is one of the characteristic flowers of the cornfield. </div> <div> Professor Henslow remarks that this Field Convolvulus invariably twines round some stalk or object of small diameter. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_66"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>It is a perennial and has a long period of blooming, generally beginning to flower about the first week of June, and being found in blossom throughout the summer and autumn months. The leaves are arrowshaped in form, but often very variable, the extremity of the leaf being in some cases far more acute than in others, and the lobes at the base more elongated. They are placed singly along the stem at very regular intervals. </div> <div> From the axils of the leaves - the points at which their stalks join the main stemspring the flower-stalks, one to each leaf all up the stem. These flower-stalks often fork into two smaller ones, each bearing a bud. One of these lesser stalks is almost invariably smaller than the other, bearing a bud in an earlier stage of development, so that although the buds occur in pairs on the flower-stem, the flowers never expand at the same time, but always appear singly. At the junction of the flower-stalk and the main stem are a pair of very small scale-like bracts. </div> <div> The flowers have trumpet-shaped corollas which vary a great deal in colour - in some plants they are almost white, whilst in others the normal pink becomes almost crimson. On the underside are five dark pink rays. In the bud the petals are folded into five pleats, the outermost part of the fold being these deep pink rays. At the bottom of the flower are what appear to be the mouths of five tubes, or pipes, running downwards, the tubes being formed by the flattened filaments of the stamens being joined to the corolla tube and yet projecting ridge-like into the flower. Flowers with tubes like these are known as 'revolver flowers,' because of the resemblance to the barrels of a revolver: the Gentians are another example. These tubes lead to the nectar which is contained in five small sacs, one at the base of each tube. To get to the honey an insect has to thrust its proboscis down each tube in turn, but whilst doing so, he knocks against the pollen in the anther placed just above it, and by carrying that pollen to the next flower it effects its cross-fertilization. In spite of this arrangement, it is a strange and unexplained fact that the flowers seldom set seeds, though the open corollas are visited by many insects, attracted by the nectar and by the faint perfume of vanilla that characterizes it. The failure to set seed is, however, quite compensated for by the vitality of its widely spreading, much branched roots, on which it chiefly depends for its propagation. </div> <div> The Convolvulus is very sensitive to weather conditions, always closing in rain, to open again with the return of sunshine. It also closes at night. Its blossoms give a deep yellow or orange tint to water, which is heightened by alum and alkalies. </div> <div> It is found wild throughout Europe, in Siberia, China, Persia and India, in North America where it has been introduced, and in Chile. </div> <div> See also: </div> <div> <U>BINDWEEDS (JALAP)</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SCAMMONY</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="564" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 361 WIDTH="560"><bR> <div> Coolwort</div> <div> Botanical: Tiarella Cordifolia (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Saxifragaceae</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dose<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Foam Flower. Mitrewort </div> <div> ---Part Used---Whole herb. </div> <div> ---Habitat---North America from Canada to Virginia. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="des_67"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT>---Description---Perennial, forms a neat little edging with tiny white spiraea-like flowers, buds tinged pink, grows in the author's garden, and, given air and sunlight, in a light rich soil thrives well. It has simple leaves spotted and veined deep red; basal leaves turn a rich red orange. Needs dividing every second year. Seeds are few, sub-globose. Taste slightly stringent, odourless. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="med_66"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT>---Medicinal Action and Uses---Tonic, diuretic. Of value in gravel and other diseases of the bladder, and as a tonic in indigestion and dyspepsia, corrects acidity and aids the liver. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="dos_27"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT>---Dose---For an infusion or decoction, 1 OZ. to the pint of water; take freely 4 oz. of the infusion two or three times daily till conditions improve. </div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> Copaiba</div> <div> Botanical: Copaifera Langsdorffii (DESF.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations and Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Copaiva. Balsam Copaiba. Copaiba officinalis. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Oleoresin. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Brazil and north of South Africa. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_68"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>An oleoresin obtained from a South American species of Copaiba, by an incision in the trunk. It was first noticed in England in 1625, in a work published by Purchas. There are many species in South America, all yielding Copaiba- a single tree is said to yield about 40 litres. The first yield is clear, colourless and very thin, but in contact with the air its consistency soon becomes thicker and yellower. It is most largely collected from Para and Maranhao in Brazil, and is brought to this country in small casks and barrels; large quantities also come from Maracaibo in Venezuela, and it is also exported from Angostura, Cayenne, Rio Janeiro and some of the West Indian Islands. The variety that comes from Venezuela is more viscid and darker in colour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_49"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Volatile oil, resin. Amorphous resin acids and resenes. </div> <div> Copaiba is a clear transparent liquid of the consistency of olive oil, pale yellow with a peculiar but not unpleasant odour, taste bitterish, hot and nauseous; the substance it most closely resembles is turpentine. As it contains no benzoic acid, it cannot properly be called a resin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_67"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stimulant, diuretic, carminative, laxative; in large doses purgative, causing nausea, vomiting, strangury, bloody urine and fever. A good remedy for chronic catarrh and bronchitis, as it assists expectoration and is antiseptic; is given with advantage in leucorrhoea, chronic cystitis, diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. It is chiefly used in gonorrhoea (though not advocated for chronic cases), often combined with cubebs and sandal. It has also been recommended externally for chilblains. Both the volatile oil and resin are greatly altered when expelled in the urine, and when precipitated by nitric acid might be mistaken for albumen; it is considered a valuable hydragogue diuretic in obstinate dropsy. </div> <div> It creates an irritant action on the whole mucous membrane, imparts a peculiar odour to the urine and breath, causes an eruption resembling measles attended with irritation and tingling; it is the resin, not the oleoresin, that is used as a diuretic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations and Dosages---</B>Oil, B.P., 5 to 20 drops. For obstinate dropsy, 15 to 20 grains three times daily. Usually taken in pill or capsule form (10 to 15 minims), or in the form of an emulsion. </div> <bR> <div> Copaiba</div> <div> Botanical: Copaifera Langsdorffii (DESF.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Leguminosae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations and Dosages</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Copaiva. Balsam Copaiba. Copaiba officinalis. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Oleoresin. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Brazil and north of South Africa. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_69"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>An oleoresin obtained from a South American species of Copaiba, by an incision in the trunk. It was first noticed in England in 1625, in a work published by Purchas. There are many species in South America, all yielding Copaiba- a single tree is said to yield about 40 litres. The first yield is clear, colourless and very thin, but in contact with the air its consistency soon becomes thicker and yellower. It is most largely collected from Para and Maranhao in Brazil, and is brought to this country in small casks and barrels; large quantities also come from Maracaibo in Venezuela, and it is also exported from Angostura, Cayenne, Rio Janeiro and some of the West Indian Islands. The variety that comes from Venezuela is more viscid and darker in colour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_50"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Volatile oil, resin. Amorphous resin acids and resenes. </div> <div> Copaiba is a clear transparent liquid of the consistency of olive oil, pale yellow with a peculiar but not unpleasant odour, taste bitterish, hot and nauseous; the substance it most closely resembles is turpentine. As it contains no benzoic acid, it cannot properly be called a resin. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_68"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stimulant, diuretic, carminative, laxative; in large doses purgative, causing nausea, vomiting, strangury, bloody urine and fever. A good remedy for chronic catarrh and bronchitis, as it assists expectoration and is antiseptic; is given with advantage in leucorrhoea, chronic cystitis, diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. It is chiefly used in gonorrhoea (though not advocated for chronic cases), often combined with cubebs and sandal. It has also been recommended externally for chilblains. Both the volatile oil and resin are greatly altered when expelled in the urine, and when precipitated by nitric acid might be mistaken for albumen; it is considered a valuable hydragogue diuretic in obstinate dropsy. </div> <div> It creates an irritant action on the whole mucous membrane, imparts a peculiar odour to the urine and breath, causes an eruption resembling measles attended with irritation and tingling; it is the resin, not the oleoresin, that is used as a diuretic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_14"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations and Dosages---</B>Oil, B.P., 5 to 20 drops. For obstinate dropsy, 15 to 20 grains three times daily. Usually taken in pill or capsule form (10 to 15 minims), or in the form of an emulsion. </div> <bR> <div> Coriander</div> <div> Botanical: Coriandrum sativum (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cultivation</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Parts Used</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Preparations</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Recipe</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Fruit and fresh leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>Coriander, an umbelliferous plant indigenous to southern Europe, is found occasionally in Britain in fields and waste places, and by the sides of rivers. It is frequently found in a semi-wild state in the east of England, having escaped from cultivation. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_70"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>It is an annual, with erect stems, 1 to 3 feet high, slender and branched. The lowest leaves are stalked and pinnate, the leaflets roundish or oval, slightly lobed. The segments of the uppermost leaves are linear and more divided. The flowers are in shortly-stalked umbels, five to ten rays, pale mauve, almost white, delicately pretty. The seed clusters are very symmetrical and the seeds fall as soon as ripe. The plant is bright green, shining, glabrous and intensely foetid. </div> <div> Gerard described it as follows: </div> <div> 'The common kind of Coriander is a very striking herb, it has a round stalk full of branches, two feet long. The leaves are almost like the leaves of the parsley, but later on become more jagged, almost like the leaves of Fumitorie, but a great deal smaller and tenderer. The flowers are white and grow in round tassels like Dill.' </div> <div> The inhabitants of Peru are so fond of the taste and smell of this herb that it enters into almost all their dishes, and the taste is often objectionable to any but a native. Both in Peru and in Egypt, the leaves are put into soup. </div> <div> The seeds are quite round like tiny balls. They lose their disagreeable scent on drying and become fragrant- the longer they are kept, the more fragrant they become. </div> <div> Coriander was originally introduced from the East, being one of the herbs brought to Britain by the Romans. As an aromatic stimulant and spice, it has been cultivated and used from very ancient times. It was employed by Hippocrates and other Greek physicians. </div> <div> The name Coriandrum, used by Pliny, is derived from <I>koros</I>, (a bug), in reference to the foetid smell of the leaves. </div> <div> Pliny tells us that 'the best (Coriander) came from Egypt,' and from thence no doubt the Israelites gained their knowledge of its properties. </div> <div> The Africans are said to have called this herb by a similar name (<I>goid</I>), which Gesenius derives from a verb (<I>gadad</I>), signifying 'to cut,' in allusion to the furrowed appearance of the fruit. </div> <div> It is still much used in the East as a condiment, and forms an ingredient in curry powder. </div> <div> In the northern countries of Europe, the seeds are sometimes mixed with bread, but the chief consumption of Coriander seed in this country is in flavouring certain alcoholic liquors, for which purpose it is largely grown in Essex. Distillers of gin make use of it, and veterinary surgeons employ it as a drug for cattle and horses. The fruit is the only part of the plant that seems to have any medical or dietetical reputation. </div> <div> Confectioners form from the seeds little, round pink and white comfits for children. </div> <div> It is included in the British Pharmacopceia, but it is chiefly used to disguise unpleasant medicine. </div> <div> A power of conferring immortality is thought by the Chinese to be a property of the seeds. </div> <div> Turner says (1551): '"Coriandre layd to wyth breade or barly mele is good for Saynt Antonyes fyre" (the erysipelas: so called because it was supposed to have been cured by the intercession of St. Anthony). Coriander cakes are seldom made now.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul_9"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Cultivation---</B>Coriander likes a warm, dry, light soil, though it also does well in the somewhat heavy soil of Essex. </div> <div> Sow in mild, dry weather in April, in shallow drills, about 1/2 inch deep and 8 or 9 inches apart, and cover it evenly with the soil. The seeds are slow in germinating. The seeds may also be sown in March, in heat, for planting out in May. </div> <div> As the seeds ripen, about August, the disagreeable odour gives place to a pleasant aroma, and the plant is then cut down with sickles and when dry the fruit is threshed out. </div> <div> The best land yields on an average 15 cwt. per acre. It is grown to a small extent in the Eastern counties, but more especially in Essex. It is also cultivated in various parts of Continental Europe, and in northern Africa, Malta and India. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_12"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Parts Used---</B>The fruit, and sometimes for salads and soups - the fresh leaves. </div> <div> The fruit (so-called seeds) are of globular form, beaked, finely ribbed, yellowish-brown 1/5 inch in diameter, with five longitudinal ridges, separable into two halves (the mericarps), each of which is concave internally and shows two broad, longitudinal oil cells (vittae). The seeds have an aromatic taste and, when crushed, a characteristic odour. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_51"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Coriander fruit contains about 1 per cent of volatile oil, which is the active ingredient. It is pale yellow or colourless, and has the odour of Coriander and a mild aromatic taste. The fruit yields about 5 per cent of ash and contains also malic acid, tannin and some fatty matter. </div> <div> Coriander fruit of the British Pharmacopoeia is directed to be obtained from plants cultivated in Britain, the fruit before being submitted to distillation being brushed or bruised. </div> <div> The English-grown are said to have the finest flavour, though the Russian and German are the richest in oil. The Mogadore are the largest and brightest, but contain less oil, and the Bombay fruit, which are also large, are distinguished by their oval shape and yield the least oil of any. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_69"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Stimulant, aromatic and carminative. The powdered fruit, fluid extract and oil are chiefly used medicinally as flavouring to disguise the taste of active purgatives and correct their griping tendencies. It is an ingredient of the following compound preparations of the Pharmacopceia: confection, syrup and tincture of senna, and tincture and syrup of Rhubarb, and enters also into compounds with angelica gentian, jalap, quassia and lavender. As a corrigent to senna, it is considered superior to other aromatics. </div> <div> If used too freely the seeds become narcotic. </div> <div> Coriander water was formerly much esteemed as a carminative for windy colic. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_15"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Powdered fruit: dose, 10 to 60 grains. Fluid extract, 5 to 30 drops. B.P.: dose, 1/2 to 3 drops. </div> <div>  <A NAME="rec_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> RECIPE</div> <div> <B>'Lucknow' Curry Powder</B> </div> <div> 1 OZ. ginger, 1 OZ. Coriander seed, 1 OZ. cardamum seed, 1/4 oz. best Cayenne powder, 3 oz. turmeric. </div> <div> Have the best ingredients powdered at the druggist's into a fine powder and sent home in different papers. Mix them <I>well before the fire</I>, then put the mixture into a widemouthed bottle, cork well, and keep it in a dry place. - (From an old Family Cookerybook in the author's possession.) </div> <bR> <div> Corkwood Tree</div> <div> Botanical: Duboisia myoporoides </div> <div> Family: N.O. Solanaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Duboisia. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Leaves. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>New South Wales and Queensland, Australia; New Caledonia. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_71"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A tall glabrous shrub or small tree, flowers, axillary clusters, white with two-lipped calyx; corolla, funnel-shaped; limb, five parted; five stamens within the corolla (two long and two short); one rudimentary ovary, two many-ovalled compartments and fruit berry-like; leaves, inodorous and bitter taste. Another species, <I>Duboisia Hoopwoodii</I>, contains an acrid liquid alkaloid, Piturine, which is said to be identical with nicotine; it is largely used by the natives of Central Australia rather in the same way that the Indians use Coca leaves. It is obtained from the leaves and twigs, which are collected while the flowers are in bloom in August; the natives smoke and chew it for its stimulating effect, which enables them to work at high pressure without food. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_52"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>Alkaloidal sulphates, mainly hyoscyamine and hyoscine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_70"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Sedative, hypnotic and mydriatic (of variable strength), which augments the activity of the respiratory system. Its alkaloid, Sulphate of Duboisia, is sometimes used as a substitute for atropine. The homoeopaths use the tincture and the alkaloid for paralysis and eye affections; a red spot interfering with vision is an indication for its use. It is antidoted by coffee and lemon-juice. </div> <bR> <div> Corn Cockle</div> <div> Botanical: Agrostemna Githago </div> <div> Lychnis Githago </div> <div> Family: N.O. Caryophyllaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Corn Pink. Corn Campion. Ray. Nigella. Zizany. Darnel. Tare. Gith. Lychnis. Githage. Agrostemma. Pseudo-melanthium. Lolium. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Seeds. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_72"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>A well-known Corn weed, with large entire purple petals. </div> <div> 'An annual herb of the Pink family; one of the Campions. The tall, slender stem, 2 to 4 feet high, has a dense coat of white hairs. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves, 4 to 5 inches in length, are produced in pairs and their stalkless bases meet around the stem. The large solitary flowers have very long stalks which issue from the axils of the leaves. They are 1 1/2 and 2 inches broad, with purple petals which have pale streaks ("honey guides"), showing the way to the mouth of the tube. There are no scales round the mouth. But the striking feature of the flower which distinguishes it from the Campions is the woolly calyx with its five strong ridges and five long green teeth that far exceed the length of the petals; in the open flower they take their place between the petals, and seem to serve as preliminary alighting perches for the butterflies and moths by which the flowers are pollinated. Nectar is secreted at the bottom of the tube, whose depth makes the flower unsuitable for bees. The flower is at first male, the anthers shedding their pollen before the stigmas are mature; they are so disposed at the mouth of the tube that the nectar-seekers push their faces among them and pick up pollen. On visiting a flower that is a day or two older and has become female, the stigmas occupying the mouth are in the way to receive it by a similar process. Sometimes, smaller flowers are produced in addition, which are entirely female, for the stamens are not developed. The flowers bloom from June to August, and are succeeded by a large, oval capsule, opening by five teeth, and containing about 2 dozen large black seeds. <I>The seeds contain an irritant poison</I>, and sometimes cause trouble through being eaten by domestic animals, and by getting into milling corn and thence into the family loaf.' - (<I>Trees and Flowers of the Countryside</I>.) </div> <div> Corn Cockle is <I>not used</I> in alopathic medicine to-day, but according to Hill, if used long enough, it was considered a cure for dropsy and jaundice. </div> <div> In homoeopathy a trituration of the seeds has been found useful in paralysis and gastritis. </div> <bR> <div> Cornflower</div> <div> Botanical: Centaurea Cyanus (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Part Used Medicinally</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Bluebottle. Bluebow. Hurtsickle. Blue Cap. </div> <div> (<I>French</I>) Bluet. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Flowers. </div> <div> <I>Centaurea Cyanus</I>, the Cornflower, with its star-like blossoms of brilliant blue, is one of our most striking wild-flowers, though it is always looked on as an unwelcome weed by the farmer, for not only does it by its presence withdraw nourishment from the ground that is needed for the corn, 'but its tough stems in former days of hand-reaping were wont to blunt the reaper's sickle, earning it the name of 'Hurt Sickle': </div> <div> 'Thou blunt'st the very reaper's sickle and so </div> <div> In life and death becom'st the farmer's foe.' </div> <div> The Latin name, <I>Cyanus</I>, was given the Cornflower after a youthful devotee of the goddess Flora (Cyanus), whose favourite flower it was, and the name of the genus is derived from the Centaur, Chiron, who taught mankind the healing virtue of herbs. </div> <div> It has long been cultivated as a garden plant, in several colours as well as white. C. montana, a perennial form, is frequent in gardens. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_73"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>In the wild condition it is fairly common in cultivated fields and by roadsides. The stems are 1 to 3 feet high, tough and wiry, slender, furrowed and branched, somewhat angular and covered with a loose cottony down. The leaves, very narrow and long, are arranged alternately on the stem, and like the stem are covered more or less with white cobwebby down that gives the whole plant a somewhat dull and grey appearance. The lower leaves are much broader and often have a roughly-toothed outline. The flowers grow solitary, and of necessity upon long stalks to raise them among the corn. The bracts enclosing the hard head of the flower are numerous, with tightly overlapping scales, each bordered by a fringe of brown teeth. The inner disk florets are small and numerous, of a pale purplish rose colour. The bright blue ray florets, thatform the conspicuous part of the flower, are large, widely spread, and much cut into. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_13"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Part Used Medicinally---</B>The flowers are the part used in modern herbal medicine and are considered to have tonic, stimulant and emmenagogue properties, with action similar to that of Blessed Thistle. </div> <div> A water distilled from Cornflower petals was formerly in repute as a remedy for weak eyes. The famous French eyewash, 'Eau de Casselunettes,' used to be made from them. Culpepper tells us that the powder or dried leaves of the Bluebottle is given with good success to those that are bruised by a fall or have broken a vein inwardly. He also informs us that, with Plantain, Horsetail, or Comfrey, </div> <div> 'it is a remedy against the poison of the scorpion and resisteth all venoms and poisons. The seeds or leaves (or the distilled water of the herb) taken in wine is very good against the plague and all infectious diseases, and is very good in pestilential fevers: the juice put into fresh or green wounds doth quickly solder up the lips of them together, and is very effectual to heal all ulcers and sores in the mouth.' </div> <div> The expressed juice of the petals makes a good blue ink; if expressed and mixed with alum-water, it may be used in water-colour drawing. It dyes linen a beautiful blue, but the colour is not permanent. </div> <div> The dried petals are used by perfumers for giving colour to pot-pourri. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>KNAPWEED, BLACK</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>KNAPWEED, GREATER</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SCABIOUS, FIELD</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SCABIOUS, LESSER</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SCABIOUS, DEVIL'S BIT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>TEAZLE </U></div> <bR> <div> Corn, Indian</div> <div> Botanical: Zea Mays (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Graminaceae</div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Description</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Constituents</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Medicinal Action and Uses</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f0ff000000.gif" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Maize. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>South America; also cultivated in other parts of America, in the West Indian Islands, Australia, Africa, India, etc., and now in France. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_74"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1