Herbal Encyclopedia - H

<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>   |   <A HREF="id103.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Herbal Encyclopedia C"><U>Herbal Encyclopedia - C</U></A>   |   <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>   |   <B>Herbal Encyclopedia - H</B>   |   <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 - H</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="0ded4e50.gif" border=0 width="212" height="229" ALT="Bitmap Image" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> <div> <B>Herbs & Oils</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>~ H ~</B></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HAWTHORN</U></B>: <I>(Cratageus spp.)</I> Also known as May Tree, May Blossom, or White Thorn. A Druid sacred tree, this deciduous, thorny shrub has serrated, lobed leaves, dense white flower clusters in late spring, and red false fruits (haws). The flowers consist of <U>five</U> white petals, sacred to the Goddess. During World War I, young Hawthorn leaves were used as substitutes for tea and tobacco, and the seeds were ground in place of coffee. </div> <div> The berry is a superior heart tonic, useful for almost any heart condition. Cholesterol problems and valvular diseases are benefited. The berries also strengthen the appetite and digestion. Extended use lowers blood pressure. Hawthorn berry is a good remedy for the nerves and for insomnia. The berries are simmered or tinctured. Simmer two teaspoons of berries per cup of water for twenty minutes. The dose is a quarter cup four times a day. Take ten to twenty drops of tincture four times a day. The flowers are taken as a tea to benefit the heart. Steep two teaspoons of flowers per cup of water for twenty minutes; the dose is a quarter cup four times a day.</div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Berry and flower</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Hawthorn is the classic flower to decorate a maypole. An herb of fertility, it finds its place in weddings, May Day celebrations, and ritual groves. Beltaine was once reckoned as the day the hawthorn first bloomed. Wands made of hawthorn have great power. The blossoms are highly erotic. Use for Fertility magic; Protection; Defense; and Chastity. Hawthorn is sacred to the fairies, and is part of the tree fairy triad of Britain "Oak, Ash and Thorn" and where all three trees grow together it is said that one may see fairies. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HAZEL</U></B>: <I>(Corylus avellana)</I> Also called European Filbert. A Druid sacred tree, Hazel is a deciduous, suckering shrub with pendulous male catkins in spring and clusters of nuts in autumn. The leaves have served as a tobacco substitute.</div> <div> Hazel nuts are rich in phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and copper. Culpeper says that hazel nuts with mead or honey will cure a chronic cough. These are made into an "electuary". Grind the nuts in an electric blender, then add mead or honey or form a past, which is eaten several times a day in tablespoon doses. Add pepper to discharge phlegm. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Nut</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Hazel is an ancient Celtic tree of wisdom, inspiration, and poetry. Hazel nuts are eaten before divination. Diancecht, the god of healing, invented a porridge that would cure colds, sore throats, and worms. According to legend, it consisted of hazel buds, dandelions, chickweed, sorrel, and oatmeal. It was to be taken in the mornings and evenings. </div> <div> Wands of Hazel symbolize white magic and healing. Forked sticks are used to find water or buried treasure. If outside and in need of magical protection quickly, draw a circle around yourself with a hazel branch. To enlist the aid of plant fairies, string hazelnuts on a cord and hang up in your house or ritual room.</div> <div> Healing; Protection; Luck; Clairvoyance; Divination; Inspiration; Wisdom; Defense; Fertility; Wishes. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HEATHER</U></B>: <I>(Calluna vulgaris)</I> A Druid Sacred Herb, there are more than a thousand cultivars from this low-growing, evergreen species, which has scale like leaves and crowded racemes of flowers. Heather provides a support system for rural farmers, who use it for fuel, thatch, fodder, tea, and as a dye. Growing the plants increases the soils fertility. </div> <div> The flowering shoots of heather are used for insomnia, stomach pains, coughs, and skin problems. Heather, used fresh or dry, strengthens the heart and slightly raises the blood pressure. Heather is slightly diuretic. Fresh or dried heather shoots are simmered, four teaspoons to a cup of water; the dose is one-half cup a day. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Flowering shoot</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Heather is a Goddess herb associated with the planet Venus and sacred to Isis. It is carried as a guard against rape and other violent crimes, or just to bring good luck. White heather is the best for this purpose. Heather when burned with fern outside attracts rain, or dip heather and fern in water and sprinkle around to conjure rain. Heather has also long been used to conjure ghosts. Red Heather is used for passion, to start or end an affair. Purple for spiritual development. White for cooling passions of unwanted suitors. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HOLLY</U></B>: <I>(Ilex aquifolium)</I> The American variety is <I>Ilex opaca</I>. A Druid sacred tree. Sacred to the Winter Solstice, when it is used for decorating. The leaf is dried and used as tea for fevers, bronchitis, bladder problems, and gout. Steep a half ounce of the chopped leaf in boiled water for twenty minutes; take up to one cup a day. The juice of the fresh leaf is helpful in jaundice; take one tablespoon per day.</div> <div> <B>CAUTION:</B><I> the berries are poisonous!</I></div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Holly, with it's warrior-like bristles, is known as an herb of protection. Cast it about to repel unwanted animals and spirits. Sprinkle newborn babies with "holly water" (water in which holly has been soaked, especially if left under a full moon overnight) to keep them happy and safe. Holly is one of the evergreens brought into the home by Druids. It symbolizes a willingness to allow the nature spirits to share one'e abode during the harsh, cold season. </div> <div> Planted near a house, holly repels negative spells sent against you. A bag of leaves and berries carried by a man increases his ability to attract women. Carry to promote good luck. Energy; Power; Strength; Protection.</div> <div> After midnight on a Friday, without making a sound, gather nine holly leaves, preferably from a non-spiny plant. Wrap these up in a white cloth using nine knots the tie the ends together. Place this beneath your pillow, and your dreams will come true. The traditional crowns for the bride and groom are made of holly (a male plant) and ivy (a female plant), wreaths and altar decoration are made of these as well.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HONEYSUCKLE</U></B>: <I>(Lonicera japonica)</I> This evergreen or semi-evergreen vine has hairy leaves and fragrant spring to summer flowers that open white and turn yellow, followed by poisonous black berries. </div> <div> Properties cited are for the common flower that grows wild, rather that the ornamental varieties. The flowers have a broad spectrum antimicrobial effect against salmonella, staphyloccus, and streptococcus. Chinese herbalists have long recognized honesuckle as an antibiotic herb for colds, flus, and fevers. Sore throats, conjuctivitis, and inflammations of the bowel, urinary tract, and reproductive organs have been treated with it. It is said to be useful in treating cancer. Combine it with seeds of <I>Forsythia suspensii</I>, the well-known yellow flowering shrub, or <I>Echinacea augustifolia</I> or <I>E. purpurea</I> for maximum antivirul and antibacterial effect. Steep two teaspoons per cup for twenty minutes. The dose is a quarter cup, four times a day. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Flower</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Health-Healing; Love; Luck; Creativity; Prophetic Dreams; Protection; Psychic Awareness; Divination; Clairvoyance; Anointing; Balance. Lightly crush the fresh flowers and then rub on the forehead to heighten psychic powers. Ring green candles with honeysuckle flowers to attract money. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HOPS</U></B>: <I>(Humulus lupulus)</I> Also known as Beer Flavor. A Druid sacred herb, this herbaceous twining herb has large toothed leaves and flowers with a distinctive scent of beer. The young shoots are eaten as a vegetable and the leaves blanched for soups, but Hops are cultivated mainly for the brewing industry. The ripe, female flowers, called "strobiles," are added to beer to flavor, clarify, and preserve it. A pillow stuffed with dried hops aids sleep and healing. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Flower</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Use in exorcism incenses and mixtures, as well as healing sachets. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HOREHOUND</U></B>: <I>(Marrubium vulgare)</I> Horehound is a woolly herb with a faint scent of wormwood, crinkled hairy leaves, and flowering stems with whorls of small white blossoms. Navajo mothers were given a root decoction before and after childbirth. Horehound's woolly leaves were once used to clean milk pails, and the dried flower remains were floated on oil as candle wicks. The leaves are used in tonics, liqueurs, and ales, and are made into expectorant and antiseptic cough drops. An infusion relaxes muscles, and helps expel mucus, treating bronchitis, croup, and asthma. It destroys intestinal worms, and acts as a digestive and liver tonic and a laxative. The tea is used internally and externally to treat eczema and shingles. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: Leaf</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Use in protective sachets and carry to guard against sorcery and fascination. Also scattered as an exorcism herb. Drink an infusion of the herb and it will clear your mind and promote quick thinking as well as strengthen the mental powers. Horehound, when mixed with ash leaves and placed in a bowl of water, releases healing vibrations, and should be placed in a sickroom. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B><U>HYSSOP</U></B>: <I>Hysopus officinalis</I> Hyssop is a semievergreen shrub or subshrub with aromatic leaves and spikes of blue, two-lipped, late-summer flowers. The leaf is added to liqueurs, adds bit to sweet and savory dished, and aids in the digestion of fatty meat. Once used for purifying temples and cleansing lepers, the leaves contain an antiseptic, antiviral oil. A mold that produces penicillin grows on the leaves. An infusion id taken as a sedative expectorant for flu, bronchitis, and phlegm. A leaf poultice treats bruises and wounds. The antiseptic, antiviral, but hazardous essential oil is used in perfumes and to treat cold sores, disperse bruises, and heal scars. Hyssop is added to potpourri and laundry rinses. Hyssop is used in companion to distract cabbage butterflies and planted near vines to increase yield. It should be avoided when pregnant and by those with hypertension and epilepsy. </div> <div> The herb is used (often in combination with sage, which has similar properties, or horehound) for respiratory tract infections. Flu, sore throats, lung complaints, asthma, chronic bronchitis, gas, adn bloating are treated by it. Externally, it is used as a wound herb for bruises, injuries, and rheumatism. The green tops of the herb can be added to soups to benefit asthmatics. Hyssop baths are useful for rheumatic complaints. Make a standard infusion of the herb using two teaspoons per cup of water and steeping for twenty minutes. The dose is one-fourth cup four times a day. </div> <div> <I><U>Parts Used</U></I>: The above ground portions of the herb</div> <div> <I><U>Magical Uses:</U></I> Hyssop was a holy herb of the ancient Greeks, used to cleanse sacred spaces. It is the most widely used purification herb in magic. Hyssop can be burned in incense, worn, used in decorations, and added to the chalice. Use a bunch to ritually "sweep" the altar as a preparation for a ceremonial rite. It is added to baths in sachets, infused and sprinkled on objects or persons to cleanse them, and hung up in the home to purge it of evil negativity.</div> <div> <I><U>Aromatherapy Uses</U></I> Bruises; Cuts; Dermatitis; Eczema; Inflammation; Wounds; Low or High Blood Pressure; Rheumatism; Asthma; Bronchitis; Catarrh; Cough; Flu; Sore Throat; Tonsillitis; Whooping Cough; Colic; Indigestion; Amenorrhea; Leukorrhea; Anxiety; Fatigue; Nervous Tension; Stress related Conditions. Key Qualities: Tonic; Cephalic; Nervine; Warming; Calming; Purifying; Cleansing; Aphrodisiac; Mental Stimulant; balancing. </div> <bR> <bR> <div> Culpeper/Grieve</div> <bR> <div> Hair Cap Moss</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Moss, Hair Cap</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Hardhack</div> <div> Botanical: Spiraea tomentosa (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rosaceae</div> <div> ---Synonyms---Steeple Bush. White Cap. White Leaf. Silver Leaf. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Leaves, root, flowers. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Canada. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia to the mountains of Georgia westward. </div> <div> ---Description---Indigenous shrub, with leaves ovate, lanceolate, serrate, greenish-white and downy. The rose-coloured flowers are in panicles underneath. </div> <div> ---Constituents---The root is said to contain gallic and tannic acid, and, when freshly dug, some volatile oils. </div> <div> ---Medicinal Action and Uses---The flowers give feebly the medicinal action of salicylic acid and are used in decoction for their diuretic and tonic effect. </div> <div> The root and leaves are astringent and useful in diarrhoea when there are no inflammatory symptoms. </div> <div> Dose for diarrhoea, 30 to 60 minims of the fluid extract. </div> <bR> <div> Hart's Tongue</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Ferns</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Hawkbit, Autumnal</div> <div> Botanical: Leontodon autumnalis (LINN.)</div> <bR> <div> Hawkbit, Rough</div> <div> Botanical: Leontodon hispidus (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</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> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div> Assigned also at one time to the genus Hieracium, but now placed by most botanists in the genus Leontodon, and sometimes in the genus Apargia, are the Hawkbits, of which there are two British species, the Autumnal Hawkbit and the Rough Hawkbit, both abundantly distributed throughout Britain, in meadowland, and on commons and waste ground. </div> <div> The Rough Hawkbit has been used medicinally in the same manner as the Hawkweeds and the Dandelion, for its action on the kidneys and as a remedy for jaundice and dropsy, and is still used for its diuretic qualities in country districts in Ireland. </div> <div> It is a plant somewhat resembling the Dandelion in appearance, the leaves all springing from the root, 3 to 4 inches long, jaggedly cut into, with the lobes pointing backwards, but instead of being smooth like the Dandelion, they are rough with forked bristles. The few flowers which the plant bears are borne singly on slender stems, 6 inches to a foot or more high, swollen at the top beneath the heads, which are 1 1/2 inches in diameter when expanded; when in bud, they droop. </div> <div> The name of the genus, Leontodon, is formed from two Greek words, meaning Lion's tooth, referring to the toothed leaves. Apargia is derived from the name bestowed by the Greeks on this or some similar plant, and is taken from two Greek words, meaning 'From idleness,' the implication being that where these weeds are allowed to abound, the farmer has his own idleness to thank. The name of the genus, Hieracium, derived from the Greek, hieras (a hawk), refers to an ancient belief that hawks ate these plants to sharpen their sight, a belief also indicated in the popular English names, Hawkweed and Hawkbit. </div> <div> All the Hawkweeds abound in honey and have a sweet honey-like smell when expanded in the full sunshine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Other Species--- </div> <div> Hieracium Aurantiacum, called also 'Grimthe-Collier,' from the black hairs which clothe the flower-stalk and involucre, is an ornamental plant with orange flowers. </div> <bR> <div> Hawkweed, Wall</div> <div> Botanical: Hieracium murorum (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <bR> <div> Hawkweed, Wood</div> <div> Botanical: Hieracium sylvaticum (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div> The Hawkweeds, together with the Hawkbits, Goat's Beard and Salsify, belong to the Chicory group of the great order Compositae, which includes also the Dandelion and Sowthistles. All the plants of this group have milky juice, and the flowers - mostly yellow - have not two kinds of florets, like the daisy, but consist only of strap-shaped florets, each one of which is a complete flower in itself, not lacking stamens, as do the outer similarly shaped ray florets of the Daisy. </div> <div> It is often a perplexing matter to distinguish the different members of the Hawkweed family. Some botanical authorities have recognized no less than thirty different species, but many of these are considered by other authorities to be merely variations or subspecies, and, as a rule, about ten species are regarded as distinct, of which the commonest among the taller species are the Wall Hawkweed (Hieracium murorum), and the Wood Hawkweed (H. sylvaticum), and the little Mouse-ear Hawkweed. </div> <div> The older writers have often grouped together, as far as their medicinal qualities are concerned, the Hawkweeds, the Hawkbits and the Hawkbeards, all of which have yellow, dandelion-like flowers, and are much alike in appearance. Culpepper says: </div> <div> 'Saturn owns it. Hawkweed, saith Dioscorides, is cooling, somewhat drying and binding, and good for the heat of the stomach and gnawings therein, for inflammation and the bad fits of ague. The juice of it in wine helps digestion, dispels wind, hinders crudities abiding in the stomach; it is good against the biting of venomous serpents, if the herb be applied to the place, and is good against all other poisons. A scruple of the dried root given in wine and vinegar is profitable for dropsy. The decoction of the herb taken in honey digesteth the phlegm in the chest or lungs, and with hyssop helps the cough. The decoction of the herb and of wild succory made with wine, cures windy colic and hardness of the spleen, it procures rest and sleep, cools heat, purges the stomach, increases blood and helps diseases of the reins and bladder. Outwardly applied it is good for all the defects and diseases of the eyes, used with new milk- it is used with good success for healing spreading ulcers, especially in the beginning. The green leaves, bruised and with a little salt, applied to any place burnt with fire before blisters arise, help them: as also St. Anthony's fire (erysipelas) and all eruptions. Applied with meal and water as a poultice, it eases and helps cramps and convulsions. The distilled water cleanseth the skin and taketh away freckles, spots, or wrinkles in the face.' </div> <div> The Wall Hawkweed, probably the commonest of the genus, grows freely in Great Britain in woods and on heaths, walls and rocks. It is a very variable plant, 1 to 2 feet high; the leaves, which are more or less hairy, mostly rise directly from the root and lie in a rosette on the ground. They are egg-shaped and toothed at the base and have slender footstalks. The stem is many-flowered and rarely bears more than one large leaf, sometimes none. The yellow flowers, which are in bloom in July and August, are from 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter, their stalks below the heads being covered with scattered, simple and gland-tipped black hairs. </div> <div> The Wood Hawkweed is found on banks and in copses, flowering in August and September. It is also very variable, but is best distinguished from H. murorum by its more robust habit, rather larger heads of flowers and by the narrower leaves, less crowded in a rosette, the stem being as a rule more leafy, but some varieties of murorum would rank with this in form of foliage. The leaves are sometimes very slightly toothed, the teeth pointing upwards, at other times deeply so, and are often spotted with purple. The stems are 1 to 3 feet high and many flowered, the involucres of the heads being hoary with down. </div> <bR> <div> Hawkweed, Mouse-Ear</div> <div> Botanical: Hieracium Pilosella (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Compositae</div> <div> ---Synonyms---Hawkweed. Pilosella. Mouse Ear. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div> None of the Hawkweeds are now much used in herbal treatment, though in many parts of Europe they were formerly employed as a constant medicine in diseases of the lungs, asthma and incipient consumption, but the small Mouse-ear Hawkweed, known commonly as Mouse-ear is still collected and used by herbalists for its medicinal properties. It is very common on sunny banks and walls, and in dry pastures, and is well distinguished from all other British plants of the order, by its creeping scions or runners, which are thrown out in the same manner as in the strawberry, by its small rosettes of hairy, undivided leaves, greyish green above and hoary beneath, with a dense white coat of stellately branched hairs, and by its bright lemon-coloured flowers, which are borne singly on the almost leafless stems, which are only a few inches high. The flower-heads, which are about an inch in diameter, are composed of about fifty florets, the outer having a broad, purple stripe on the under side. They open daily at 8 a.m. and close about 2 p.m. The plant is in bloom from May to September. </div> <div> The Mouse-ear differs from all other milky plants of this class, in its juice being less bitter and more astringent, and on account of this astringency, it was much employed as a medicine in the Middle Ages under the name of Auricula muris, from which the popular name is taken. It has sudorific, tonic and expectorant properties, and is considered a good remedy for whooping cough (for which, indeed, it has been regarded as a specific) and all affections of the lungs. </div> <div> The infusion of the whole herb is employed, made by pouring 1 pint of boiling water on 1 OZ. of the dried herb. This is well sweetened with honey and taken in wineglassful doses. A fluid extract is also prepared, the dose being 1/2 to 1 drachm. The powdered leaves prove an excellent astringent in haemorrhage, both external and internal, a strong decoction being good for haemorrhoids, and the leaves boiled in milk are a good external application for the same purpose. </div> <div> Drayton has written: </div> <div> 'To him that hath a flux, of Shepherd's Purse he gives, </div> <div> And Mouse-ear unto him whom some sharp rupture grieves.' </div> <div> The name 'Mouse-ear' is also applied to 'Mouse-ear Chickweed,' a plant of the genus Cerastium, to a plant of the genus Myosotis, valued for its medicinal properties, and to various kinds of Woundworts. </div> <div> Culpepper gives many uses for Mouse-ear Hawkweed. He tells us that: </div> <div> 'The juice taken in wine, or the decoction drunk, cures the jaundice, though of long continuance, to drink thereof morning and evening, and abstain from other drink two or three hours after. It is a special remedy for the stone and the tormenting pains thereof; and griping pains in the bowels. The decoction with Succory and Centaury is very effectual in dropsy and the diseases of the spleen. It stayeth fluxes of blood at the mouth or nose, and inward bleeding also, for it is a singular wound herb for wounds both inward and outward.... There is a syrup made of the juice and sugar by the apothecaries of Italy, which is highly esteemed and given to those that have a cough, and in phthisis, and for ruptures and burstings. The green herb bruised and bound to any cut or wound doth quickly close the lips thereof, and the decoction or powder of the dried herb wonderfully stays spreading and fretting cankers in the mouth and other parts. The distilled water of the plant is applicable for the diseases aforesaid and apply tents of cloths wet therein.' </div> <div> The herb is collected in May and June, when in flower and is dried. </div> <div> Parkinson states that if 'Mouseare' be given to any horse it 'will cause that he shall not be hurt by the smith that shooeth him.' Also that skilful shepherds are careful not to let their flocks feed in pastures where mouseare abounds 'lest they grow sicke and leane and die quickly after.' </div> <div> See: </div> <div> DANDELION<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> HAWKBITS, AUTUMNAL<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> HAWKBITS, ROUGH<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> GOATSBEARD<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Hawthorn</div> <div> Botanical: Crataegus oxyacantha (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Rosaceae</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 and Dosage<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---May. Mayblossom. Quick. Thorn. Whitethorn. Haw. Hazels. Gazels. Halves. Hagthorn. Ladies' Meat. Bread and Cheese Tree. </div> <div> (French) L'épine noble </div> <div> (German) Hagedorn </div> <div> ---Part Used---Dried haws or fruits. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Europe, North Africa, Western Asia. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---The Hawthorn is the badge of the Ogilvies and gets one of its commonest popular names from blooming in May. Many country villagers believe that Hawthorn flowers still bear the smell of the Great Plague of London. The tree was formerly regarded as sacred, probably from a tradition that it furnished the Crown of Thorns. The device of a Hawthorn bush was chosen by Henry VII because a small crown from the helmet of Richard III was discovered hanging on it after the battle of Bosworth, hence the saying, 'Cleve to thy Crown though it hangs on a bush.' The Hawthorn is called Crataegus Oxyacantha from the Greek kratos, meaning hardness (of the wood), oxcus (sharp), and akantha (a thorn). The German name of Hagedorn, meaning Hedgethorn, shows that from a very early period the Germans divided their land into plots by hedges; the word haw is also an old word for hedge. The name Whitethorn arises from the whiteness of its bark and Quickset from its growing as a quick or living hedge, in contrast to a paling of dead wood. </div> <div> This familiar tree will attain a height of 30 feet and lives to a great age. It possesses a single seed-vessel to each blossom producing a separate fruit, which when ripe is a brilliant red and this is in miniature a stony apple. In some districts these mealy red fruits are called Pixie Pears, Cuckoo's Beads and Chucky Cheese. The flowers are mostly fertilized by carrion insects, the suggestion of decomposition in the perfume attracts those insects that lay their eggs and hatch out their larvae in decaying animal matter. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---In common with other members of the Prunus and Pyrus groups of theorder Rosaceae, the Hawthorn contains Amyddalin. The bark contains the alkaloid Crataegin, isolated in greyish-white crystals, bitter in taste, soluble in water, with difficulty in alcohol and not at all in ether. </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---Cardiac, diuretic, astringent, tonic. Mainly used as a cardiac tonic in organic and functional heart troubles. Both flowers and berries are astringent and useful in decoction to cure sore throats. A useful diuretic in dropsy and kidney troubles. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparation and dosage---Fluid Extract of Berries, 10 to 15 drops. </div> <div> The leaves have been used as an adulterant for tea. An excellent liquer is made from Hawthorn berries with brandy. </div> <div> Formerly the timber, when of sufficient size, was used for making small articles. The root-wood was also used for making boxes and combs; the wood has a fine grain and takes a beautiful polish. It makes excellent fuel, making the hottest wood-fire known and used to be considered more desirable than Oak for oven-heating. Charcoal made from it has been said to melt pig-iron without the aid of a blast. </div> <div> The stock is employed not only for grafting varieties of its own species, but also for several of the garden fruits closely allied to it, such as the medlar and pear. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Other Species--- </div> <div> C. Aronia is a bushy species giving larger fleshy fruit than C. Oxyacantha. It is indigenous to Southern Europe and Western Asia and is common about Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives, where its fruit is used for preserves. </div> <div> C. odoratissima is very agreeable also as a fruit. </div> <div> C. Azarole. Its fruit in the same way is highly esteemed in Southern Europe. </div> <bR> <div> Heartsease</div> <div> Botanical: Viola tricolor (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Violaceae</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">Part Used Medicinally and Preparation for Market<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---Wild Pansy. Love-Lies-Bleeding. Love-in-Idleness. Live-in-Idleness. Loving Idol. Love Idol. Cull Me. Cuddle Me. Call-me-to-you. Jackjump-up-and-kiss-me. Meet-me-in-the-Entry. Kiss-her-in-the-Buttery. Three-Faces-under-a-Hood. Kit-run-in-the-Fields. Pink-o'-the-Eye. Kit-run-about. Godfathers and Godmothers. Stepmother. Herb Trinitatis. Herb Constancy. Pink-eyed-John. Bouncing Bet. Flower o'luce. Bird's Eye. Bullweed. </div> <div> (Anglo-Saxon) Banwort, Banewort. </div> <div> (French) Pensée. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div> ---Habitat---The Heartsease, or Wild Pansy, very different in habit from any other kind of Viola, is abundantly met with almost throughout Britain. Though found on hedgebanks and waste ground, it seems in an especial degree a weed of cultivation, found most freely in cornfields and garden ground. It blossoms almost throughout the entire floral season, expanding its attractive little flowers in the early days of summer and keeping up a succession of blossom until late in autumn. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---The Heartsease is as variable as any of the other members of the genus, but whatever modifications of form it may present, it may always be readily distinguished from the other Violets by the general form of its foliage, which is much more cut up than in any of the other species and by the very large leafy stipules at the base of the true leaves. The stem, too, branches more than is commonly found in the other members of the genus. Besides the free branching of the stem, which is mostly 4 to 8 inches in height, it is generally very angular. The leaves are deeply cut into rounded lobes, the terminal one being considerably the largest. In the other species of Viola the foliage is ordinarily very simple in outline, heartshaped, or kidney-shaped, having its edge finely toothed. </div> <div> The flowers (1/4 to 1 1/4 inch across) vary a great deal in colour and size, but are either purple, yellow or white, and most commonly there is a combination of all these colours in each blossom. The upper petals are generally most showy in colour and purple in tint, while the lowest and broadest petal is usually a more or less deep tint of yellow. The base of the lowest petal is elongated into a spur, as in the Violet. </div> <div> The flowers are in due course succeeded by the little capsules of seeds, which when ripe, open by three valves. Though a near relative of the Violet, it does not produce any of the curious bud-like flowers - cleistogamous flowers - characteristic of the Violet, as its ordinary showy flowers manage to come to fruition so that there is no necessity for any others. Darwin found that the humble bee was the commonest insect visitor of the Heartsease, though the moth Pluvia visited it largely - another observer mentions Thrips small wingless insects - as frequent visitors to the flowers. Darwin considered that the cultivated Pansy rarely set seed if there were no insect visitors, but that the little Field Pansy can certainly fertilize itself if necessary. </div> <div> The flower protects itself from rain and dew by drooping its head both at night and in wet weather, and thus the back of the flower and not its face receives the moisture. </div> <div> The wild species is an annual, but from it the countless varieties of the perennial garden pansies, with blossoms of large size and singular beauty, are supposed to have originated. It is a very widely distributed plant, found not only throughout Britain, but in such diverse places as Arctic Europe, North Africa, Siberia and N.W. India. Several of the varieties have been distinguished as subspecies: the most marked of these are V. arvensis, most common in cornfields, with white or yellowish flowers, with spreading petals; and lutea, which has a branched rootstock, short stems, with underground runners, and blue, purple or yellow flowers with spreading petals much longer than the sepals. </div> <div> Miss Martineau tells us that many kinds are common in meadows in America, and says that as early as February the fields about Washington are quite gay with their flowers. </div> <div> The Pansy is one of the oldest favourites in the English garden and the affection for it is shown in the many names that were given it. The Anglo-Saxon name was Banwort or Bonewort. </div> <div> Miss Rohde is of opinion that Banwort was the old name for the daisy. </div> <div> She says: 'It would be interesting to know if the daisy is still called banwurt in the north,' and she quotes from Turner's Herbal in support of this, 'The Northern men call thys herbe banwurt because it helpeth bones to knyt againe....' </div> <div> Its common name of Pansy (older form 'Pawnce,' as in Spenser) is derived from the French pensées, the name which is still used in France. </div> <div> 'Love in Idleness' is still in use in Warwickshire. In ancient days the plant was much used for its potency in love charms, hence perhaps its name of Heartsease. It is this flower that plays such an important part as a love-charm in the Midsummer Night's Dream. </div> <div> The celebrated Quesnay, founder of the 'Economists,' physician to Louis XV, was called by the king his 'thinker,' and given, as an armorial bearing, three pansy flowers. </div> <div> In many old Herbals the plant is called Herba Trinitatis, being dedicated by old writers to the Trinity, because it has in each flower three colours. </div> <div> Stepmother is a familiar name for it in both France and Germany, from a fanciful reference to the different-shaped petals, supposed to represent a stepmother, her own daughters and her stepchildren. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Part Used Medicinally and Preparation for Market---The whole herb, collected in the wild state and dried. </div> <div> The Wild Pansy may be collected any time from June to August, when the foliage is in the best condition. </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 herb contains an active chemical principle, Violine (a substance similar to Emetin, having an emeto-cathartic action), mucilage, resin, sugar, salicylic acid and a bitter principle. When bruised, the plant, and especially the root, smells like peach kernels or prussic acid. The seeds are considered to have the same therapeutic activity as the leaves and flowers. </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---The Pansy has very similar properties to the Violet. </div> <div> It was formerly in much repute as a remedy for epilepsy, asthma and numerous other complaints, and the flowers were considered cordial and good in diseases of the heart, from which may have arisen its popular name of Heartsease as much as from belief in it as a love potion. </div> <div> Gerard states: </div> <div> 'It is good as the later physicians write for such as are sick of ague, especially children and infants, whose convulsions and fits of the falling sickness it is thought to cure. It is commended against inflammation of the lungs and chest, and against scabs and itchings of the whole body and healeth ulcers.' </div> <div> A strong decoction of syrup of the herb and flowers was recommended by the older herbalists for skin diseases and a homoeopathic medicinal tincture is still made from it with spirits of wine, using the entire plant, and given in small diluted doses for the cure of cutaneous eruptions. </div> <div> It was formerly official in the United States Pharmacopoeia, and is still employed in America in the form of an ointment and poultice in eczema and other skin troubles, and internally for bronchitis. </div> <div> Some years ago attention was called to this herb by a writer in the Medical Journal as a valuable remedy for the cutaneous disorder called crusta lactes, or Scald head, in children. For this purpose, 1/2 drachm of dried leaves, or a handful of the fresh herb boiled in milk, was recommended to be given every morning and evening: poultices formed of the leaves were likewise applied with success. By several medical writers its use is said to have proved very efficacious in this complaint. </div> <div> On the Continent, the herbaceous parts of the plant have been employed for their mucilaginous, demulcent and expectorant properties. The root and seeds are also emetic and purgative, which properties as well as the expectorant action of the plant are doubtless due to the presence of the violine. </div> <div> Pansy leaves are used on the Continent in place of litmus in acid and alkali tests. </div> <bR> <div> Hedge-Hyssop</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Hysop, Hedge</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Hedge Mustard</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >Mustard</FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Heliotrope</div> <div> Botanical: Heliotropium Peruviana </div> <div> Family: N.O. Heliotropeae</div> <div> ---Synonyms---Turnsole. Cherry Pie. </div> <div> A sweet-scented plant which is called Heliotrope because it follows the course of the sun. After opening it gradually turns from the east to the west and during the night turns again to the east to meet the rising sun. The Ancients recognized this characteristic of the plant and applied it to mythology. </div> <div> ---Medicinal Action and Uses---In homoeopathic medicine a tincture of the whole fresh plant is used for clergyman's sore throat and uterine displacement. </div> <bR> <div> Hellebore, Black</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Helleborus niger (LINN.) </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</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">Part 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">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 and Dosages<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Christe Herbe. Christmas Rose. Melampode. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Rhizome, root. </div> <div> ---Habitat---It is a native of the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, Greece and Asia Minor, and is cultivated largely in this country as a garden plant. Supplies of the dried rhizome, from which the drug is prepared, have hitherto come principally from Germany. </div> <div> Two allied species are natives of this country, but this particular kind does not grow wild here. </div> <div> The Black Hellebore - once known as Melampode - is a perennial, low-growing plant, with dark, shining, smooth leaves and flower-stalks rising directly from the root, its pure white blossoms appearing in the depth of winter and thereby earning for it the favourite name of Christmas Rose. </div> <div> The generic name of this plant is derived from the Greek elein (to injure) and bora (food), and indicates its poisonous nature. The specific name refers to the darkcoloured rootstock. </div> <div> The Black Hellebore used by the Greeks has been identified by Dr. Sibthorp as Helleborus officinalis, a handsome plant, with a branching stem, bearing numerous serrated bracts, and three to five whitish flowers. It is a native of Greece, Asia Minor, etc. </div> <div> The two species found wild in many parts of England, especially on a limestone soil, are H. Foetidus, the Bearsfoot, and H. Viridis, the Green Hellebore; the latter has injurious effects on cattle if eaten by them. </div> <div> Both these British species possess powerful medicinal effects and are at times substituted for the true H. niger. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---History---According to Pliny, Black Hellebore was used as a purgative in mania byMelampus, a soothsayer and physician, 1,400 years before Christ, hence the name Melampodium applied to Hellebores. Spenser in the Shepheard's Calendar, 1579, alludes to the medicinal use of Melampode for animals. Parkinson, writing in 1641, tells us: </div> <div> 'a piece of the root being drawne through a hole made in the eare of a beast troubled with cough or having taken any poisonous thing cureth it, if it be taken out the next day at the same houre.' </div> <div> Parkinson believed that White Hellebore would be equally efficacious in such a case, but Gerard recommends the Black Horehound only, as being good for beasts. He says the old farriers used to 'cut a slit in the dewlap, and put in a bit of Beare-foot, and leave it there for daies together.' </div> <div> Gerard describes the plant in these words: </div> <div> 'It floureth about Christmas, if the winter be mild and warm . . . called Christ herbe. This plant hath thick and fat leaves of a deep green colour, the upper part whereof is somewhat bluntly nicked or toothed, having sundry diversions or cuts, in some leaves many, in others fewer, like unto a female Peony. It beareth rose-coloured flowers upon slender stems, growing immediately out of the ground, an handbreadth high, sometimes very white, and ofttimes mixed with a little shew of purple, which being faded, there succeed small husks full of black seeds; the roots are many; with long, black strings coming from one end.' </div> <div> Once, people blessed their cattle with this plant to keep them from evil spells, and for this purpose, it was dug up with certain mystic rites. In an old French romance, the sorcerer, to make himself invisible when passing through the enemy's camp, scatters powdered Hellebore in the air, as he goes. </div> <div> The following is from Burton's Anatomy of Melancholy: </div> <div> 'Borage and hellebore fill two scenes, </div> <div> Sovereign plants to purge the veins </div> <div> Of melancholy, and cheer the heart </div> <div> Of those black fumes which make it smart.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="cul"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Cultivation---All kinds of Hellebore will thrive in ordinary garden soil, but for some kinds prepared soil is preferable, consisting of equal parts of good fibry loam and welldecomposed manure, half fibry peat and half coarse sand. Thorough drainage is necessary, as stagnant moisture is very injurious. It prefers a moist, sheltered situation, with partial shade, such as the margins of shrubberies. If the soil is well trenched and manured, Hellebore will not require replanting for at least seven years, if grown for flowering, but a top dressing of well-decayed manure and a little liquid manure might be given during the growing season, when plants are making their foliage. Propagation is by seeds, or division of roots. Seedlings should be pricked off thickly into a shady border, in a light, rich soil. The second year they should be transplanted to permanent quarters, and will bloom in the third year. For division of roots, the plant is strongest in July, and the clumps to be divided must be well established, with rootstocks large enough to cut. The plants will be good flowering plants in two years, but four years are required to bring them to perfection. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Part Used---The rhizome, collected in autumn and dried. </div> <div> The root has a slight odour, when cut or broken, somewhat resembling Senega root. The dry powder causes violent sneezing. It has a somewhat bitter-sweet and acrid taste. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---Two crystalline glucosides, Helleborin and helleborcin, both powerful poisons. Helleborin has a burning, acrid taste and is narcotic, helleborcin has a sweetish taste and is a highly active cardiac poison, similar in its effects to digitalis and a drastic purgative. Other constituents are resin, fat and starch. No tannin is present. </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---The drug possesses drastic purgative, emmenagogue and anthelmintic properties, but is violently narcotic. It was formerly much used in dropsy and amenorrhoea, and has proved of value in nervous disorders and hysteria. It is used in the form of a tincture, and must be administered with great care. </div> <div> Applied locally, the fresh root is violently irritant. </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---Fluid extract, 2 to 10 drops. Solid extract, 1 to 2 grains. Powdered root, 10 to 20 grains as a drastic purge, 2 to 3 grains as an alterative. Decoction, 2 drachms to the pint, a fluid ounce every four hours till effective. </div> <div> A tincture of the fresh root of H. foetidus is used in homoeopathy. </div> <bR> <div> Hellebore, False</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Adonis autumnalis, Adonis vernalis </div> <div> Family: N.O. Ranunculaceae</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">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 and Dosages<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---Red Chamomile. Pheasant's Eye. Adonis. Red Morocco. Rose-a-rubie. Red Mathes. Sweet Vernal. </div> <div> ---Part Used---Herb. </div> <div> The Pheasant's Eye (Adonis autumnalis), a plant very nearly allied to the Anemone, is sometimes found wild in England, mostly in cornfields in Kent, but is often regarded as a mere garden escape. Though generally only a cultivated species in this country, it is common enough on the Continent. </div> <div> It is a graceful plant, growing about a foot high, with finely cut leaves and terminal flowers like small scarlet buttercups. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---History---Its Latin name is derived from the ill-fated Adonis, from whose blood it sprang, according to the Greek legends. 'Red Morocco' was a somewhat strange old English name for this plant, also 'Rose-a-rubie' and 'Red Mathes,' 'by which name,' says Gerard, 'it is called of them that dwell where it groweth naturally and generally red camomill' - the latter on account of the finely-cut leaves. It is now aptly called Pheasant's Eye, on account of its brilliant little scarlet and black blossoms. </div> <div> Although named A. autumnalis, it blossoms throughout the summer, commencing to flower in June, and the seeds ripen in August and September. It is an annual, propagated by its seeds, which may be sown at almost any season, but should always be sown where the plant is to grow, because it does not bear transplanting. Any soil will suit it: it blossoms more freely in the sunshine, but willalso flourish in shade. </div> <div> In olden days it was considered to have some medicinal value, but is no longer used. Its near relative, A. vernalis (or 'Ox-eye'), though not officinal, is still regarded of medicinal value, and is a perennial species, not a native of this country, but common in central Europe, where its root is often used in the place of Black Hellebore. </div> <div> 'A. vernalis is one of the brightest and most effective of spring plants, known in many places as Sweet Vernal. It might be said of this, as of the Daffodil, that it "takes the winds of March with beauty," for often before the month is out it opens its rich, golden Anemone-like cups to the sun, and when planted in profusion, presents a glowing mass of colour. The plant is only about 9 inches high, and its foliage is one of its beauties. It makes a good addition to the rockery. Another species, A. amurensis, which is among the earliest of all the flowers, for it comes into bloom in February and March, is rather taller, and the foliage is more finely cut. There is a double variety, flore pleno, with large, yellow flowers. These plants will grow in any good garden soil, well drained and not too heavy. They should have a sunny position, but should not be allowed to suffer from drought during summer. They are quite hardy, and if left undisturbed improve from year to year.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---A. vernalis contains a glucoside Adonidin and has an action almost exactly like that of digitalin, but is much stronger and is said not to be cumulative. It appears to be about ten times as powerful as digitoxin. It has been prescribed instead of digitalis, and sometimes succeeds where digitalis fails, especially where there is kidney disease. It is, however, less certainly beneficial in valvular disease than digitalis, and should be used only where digitalis fails. It produces vomiting and diarrhoea more readily than digitalis. It is given in the form of an infusion. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Preparations and Dosages---Fluid extract, 1 to 2 drops. Glucoside adonidin, 1/4 to 1/2 grain. </div> <div> The infusion is made with 1/4 oz. of the herb to a pint of boiling water and given in tablespoonful doses every three hours. </div> <bR> <div> Hellebore, Green</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Veratrum viride </div> <div> Family: N.O. Melanthaceae or Liliaceae</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">Poisons, if any, and Antidotes<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> ---Synonyms---American Hellebore. Swamp Hellebore. Indian Poke. Itch-weed. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Dried rhizome and roots. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Swamps, low grounds, and moist meadows of the United States. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---For commercial convenience, the roots are usually broken into small pieces or fragments, but are sometimes sliced, the cut surface being of a dingy white colour, or whole, the outside dark brown, with characteristic markings. Often, portions of the dried stem or leafstalks remain attached, and these, being inert, should be rejected. </div> <div> American Hellebore closely resembles the German Veratrum album, or White Hellebore, and the Mexican V. officinale, or Sabadilla (Cevadilla), N.O. Liliaceae. The name Veratrine is given to the mixture of bases obtained from Sabadilla by extracting with alcohol, distilling off the alcohol, and precipitating the mixed bases with ammonia. Official in the Pharmacopoeia of 1898. The British Pharmacopoeia Codex preparation is Oleinatum Veratrinae. </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 has been found that the alkaloids contained in V. viride are not the same as the veratrine contained in V. album and the seeds of Sabadilla. The principal alkaloids are Pseudojervine, Rubijervine, Jervine, Cevadine, Protoveratrine, and Protoveratridine. The last is probably a decomposition product, it is highly poisonous, and sternutatory. Starch and resin are also present. </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---Emetic, diaphoretic, sedative, highly poisonous. The German White Hellebore, resembling the American, but without its cevadine, is rarely given internally, but the powder has been used in preparing an ointment for itch. </div> <div> Veratrine, a pale grey amorphous powder, is used externally as an analgesic, and also as a parasiticide. It is not known to affect the living blood but when the latter is drawn, veratrine kills the white corpuscles. Violent pain and irritation are caused if it is given internally or subcutaneously. It prolongs the contractions of heart and muscles. Its only justifiable use is as an anodyne counter irritant, especially for neuralgia. It was emphatically decided a few years ago that V. viride should whenever possible be used instead of the European V. album, which is more likely to upset the intestines. The various alkaloids present act in very different manners, and none in exactly the same way as the whole drug - jervine, for example, is less poisonous than the drug itself, while protoveratrine, although present in small quantity, is extremely toxic. </div> <div> A moderate dose of veratrum produces a reduction in the rate of the pulse, with a fall in the arterial pressure. There may be slowing of respiration. It has been used in the treatment of pneumonia, peritonitis, and other sthenic fevers, but is chiefly useful in chronic diseases, such as arterio-sclerosis and interstitial nephritis. It differs from digitalis in that it diminishes cardiac tone, and has been used for threatened apoplexy and 'irritable heart'; also for puerperal eclampsia. </div> <div> Sabadilla is the principal ingredient of the pulvis capocinorum, sometimes used in Europe for the destruction of vermin in the hair. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Dosages---V. viride, from 1 to 3 minims of the fluid extract every two or three hours until pulse rate is reduced. 1 to 2 grains. Of U.S. tincture, 10 to 30 minims. </div> <div> V. album, 1 to 2 grains in powder. Rarely given internally. </div> <div> Veratrine, 1/30 grain. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Poisons, if any, and Antidotes---Causes vomiting, with much nausea and retching. Pulse slow, later, rapid and irregular. Prostration, perspiration, pallor, with shallow and sometimes stertorous breathing. </div> <div> If there is vomiting, two glasses of water should be given and 20 grains of tannic acid as an imperfect chemical antidote. Should vomiting not occur, it must be provoked, or a stomach pump employed. The patient must be kept in a horizontal position, not even being allowed to sit up to vomit. To stop the vomiting a counter-irritant must be used over the epigastrium and morphine employed very cautiously. In the early stages, when the pulse is low, atropine is very valuable, or active respiratory stimulants, such as hypodermic injections of ammonia and strychnine. If the bodily temperature is low, heat can be applied externally. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> BEARSFOOT (STINKING HELLEBORE) <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >BEARSFOOT (BRITISH)</FONT> </div> <div> SABADILLA<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> HELLEBORE, WHITE<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Hellebore, White</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Veratrum album </div> <div> Family: N.O. Lilaceae</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">Poisons, if any, and Antidotes<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---Veratrum Lobelianium. Veratrum Californicum. Weiszer Germer. Weisze Nieszwurzel. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Rhizome, root. </div> <div> ---Habitat---Europe, from Lapland to Italy. Does not occur in the British Isles. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---Veratrum album closely resembles the American species, but is distinguished by its yellowish-white flower. </div> <div> The fresh rhizome has an alliaceous odour, but when dried it has no marked smell. Its taste is first sweet, then bitter and acrid, leaving the tongue tingling and numb. Its powder is ash-coloured. White Hellebore deteriorates by keeping. It is scarcely ever used internally owing to the severity of its action. It is stated to have been one of the principal poisons used in Europe for arrows, daggers, etc. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Constituents---Authorities differ as to the presence or absence of the veratria of cevadilla. It contains jervine, pseudo-jer-vine, rubijervine, veratralbine and veratrine. Cevadine is stated to be absent. There is fatty matter, composed of olein, stearin and a volatile acid, supergallate of Veratia, yellow colouring matter, starch ligneous matter, and gum; the ashes contain much phosphate and carbonate of lime, carbonate of potassa and some traces of silica, and sulphate of lime. There has been found in it a white, crystalline, fusible and inflammable substance called barytin, of which the properties have not been thoroughly investigated. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Medicinal Action and Uses---A violent, irritant poison. When snuffed up the nose it occasions profuse running of the nose; when swallowed, severe vomiting and profuse diarrhoea. It was formerly used in cerebral affections, such as mania, epilepsy, etc., and for gout, as a substitute for colchicum or the Eau Mediciale of Husson, when 3 parts of the wine of White Hellebore added to 1 part of laudanum was given in doses of from 1/2 fluid drachm to 2 fluid drachms. </div> <div> It is occasionally used in the form of an ointment or decoction in obstinate skin diseases such as scabies, or to kill lice, but even this use is not free from danger. It is also occasionally used as an errhine or sternutatory, diluted with starch or other mild powder, in cases of amaurosis and chronic affections of the brain. </div> <div> The principal use of the plant is in veterinary medicine. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Dosages---Of the powder, 1 to 8 grains, gradually and cautiously increased, commencing with 1 grain. Of the vinous tincture, from 20 to 60 minims. </div> <div>  <A NAME="poi_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Poisons, if any, and Antidotes---Narcotic symptoms, such as stupor and convulsions, appear in addition to vomiting and diarrhcea, when the dose is fatal. The poison may be treated by drinks and injections of coffee, stimulants to overcome the depressed condition of the heart and arteries, and opiates and demulcents to relieve internal inflammation. </div> <div>  <A NAME="oth_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Other Species--- </div> <div> Helleborus orientalis (Lam.). A tincture ofthe root is used in homoeopathy for indigestion and diarrhcea. </div> <div> See also: </div> <div> BEARSFOOT (HELLEBORE, STINKING) - <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="BlackChancery" >BEARSFOOT (BRITISH)</FONT> </div> <div> SABADILLA<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Hemlock</div> <div> POISON!<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="BlackChancery" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Conium maculatum (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">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">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">Parts Used, Harvesting and Drying<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">Adulteration<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> ---Synonyms---Herb Bennet. Spotted Corobane. Musquash Root. Beaver Poison. Poison Hemlock. Poison Parsley. Spotted Hemlock. Kex. Kecksies. </div> <div> ---Parts Used---Leaves, fruit, seeds. </div> <div> ---Habitat---It is by no means an uncommon plant in this country, found on hedgebanks, in neglected meadows, on waste ground and by the borders of streams in most parts of England, occurring in similar places throughout Europe (except the extreme north) and also in temperate Asia and North Africa. It has been introduced into North and South America. </div> <div> The Hemlock is a member of the great order Umbelliferae, the same family of plants to which the parsley, fennel, parsnip and carrot belong. </div> <div> Many of the umbelliferous plants abound in an acrid, watery juice, which is more or less narcotic in its effects on the animal frame, and which, therefore, when properly administered in minute doses, is a valuable medicine. Among these the most important is Conium, or Hemlock. Every part of this plant, especially the fresh leaves and fruit, contains a volatile, oily alkaloid, which is so poisonous that a few drops prove fatal to a small animal. </div> <div>  <A NAME="his_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---History---The Ancients were familiar with the plant, which is mentioned in early Greek literature, and fully recognized its poisonous nature. The juice of hemlock was frequently administered to criminals, and this was the fatal poison which Socrates was condemned to drink. </div> <div> The old Roman name of Conium was Cicuta, which prevails in the mediaeval Latin literature, but was applied about 1541 by Gesner and others to another umbelliferous plant, Cicuta virosa, the Water Hemlock, which does not grow in Greece and southern Europe. To avoid the confusion arising from the same name for these quite dissimilar plants, Linnaeus, in 1737, restored the classical Greek name and called the Hemlock (Conium maculatum), the generic name being derived from the Greek word Konas, meaning to whirl about, because the plant, when eaten, causes vertigo and death. The specific name is the Latin word, meaning 'spotted,' and refers to the stem-markings. According to an old English legend, these purple streaks on the stem represent the brand put on Cain's brow after he had committed murder. </div> <div> Hemlock was used in Anglo-Saxon medicine, and is mentioned as early as the tenth century. The name Hemlock is derived from the Anglo-Saxon words hem (border, shore) and leác (leek or plant). Another authority derives the British name 'hemlock' from the Anglo-Saxon word healm (straw), from which the word 'haulm' is derived. </div> <div> The use of Hemlock in modern medicine is due chiefly to the recommendation of Storch, of Vienna, since when (1760) the plant has been much employed, though it has lost some of its reputation owing to the uncertain action of the preparations made from it. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Description---Hemlock is a tall, much branched and gracefully growing plant, with elegantly-cut foliage and white flowers. Country people very generally call by the name of Hemlock many species of umbelliferous plants, but the real Hemlock may be distinguished by its slender growth, perfectly smooth stem which is marked with red, and its finely-divided leaves which are also smooth. </div> <div> It is a biennial plant, usually growing from 2 to 4 feet high, but in sheltered situations sometimes attaining nearly double that height. The root is long, forked, pale yellow and 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter. The erect, smooth stem, stout below, much branched above and hollow, is bright green, but (as already stated) is distinctively mottled with small irregular stains or spots of a port-wine colour and also covered with a white 'bloom' which is very easily rubbed off. </div> <div> The leaves are numerous, those of the first year and the lower ones very large, even reaching 2 feet in length, alternate, longstalked, tripinnate (divided along the midrib into opposite pairs of leaflets and these again divided and subdivided in similar manner). The upper leaves are much smaller, nearly stalkless, with the short footstalk dilated and stem-clasping, often opposite or three together, more oblong in outline, dipinnate or pinnate, quite smooth, uniform dull green, segments toothed, each tooth being tipped with a minute, sharp white point. </div> <div> The umbels are rather small, 1 1/4 to 2 inches broad, numerous, terminal, on rather short flower stalks, with 12 to 16 rays to the umbel. At the base of the main umbel there are 4 to 8 lance-shaped, deflexed bracts; at the base of the small umbels there are three or four spreading bractlets. The flowers are small, their petals white with an inflexed point, the stamens a little longer than the petals, with white anthers. </div> <div> The fruit is small, about 1/8 inch long broad, ridged, compressed laterally and smooth. Both flowers and fruit bear a resemblance to caraway, but the prominent crenate (wavy) ridges and absence of vittae (oil cells between the ridges) are important characters for distinguishing this fruit from others of the same natural order of plants. </div> <div> The entire plant has a bitter taste and possesses a disagreeable mousy odour, which is especially noticeable when bruised. When dry, the odour is still disagreeable, but not so pronounced as in the fresh plant. The seeds or fruits have very marked odour or taste, but when rubbed with a solution of potassium bi-oxide, the same disagreeable mouse-like odour is produced. </div> <div> The poisonous property occurs in all parts of the plant, though it is stated to be less strong in the root. Poisoning has occurred from eating the leaves for parsley, the roots for parsnips and the seeds in mistake for anise seeds. Many children, too, have suffered by using whistles made from the hollow stems of the Hemlock, which should be extirpated from meadows and pastures since many domestic animals have been killed by eating it, though goats are said to eat it with impunity. </div> <div>  <A NAME="par_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>---Parts Used, Harvesting and Drying---The leaves and fruit. The fresh green Hemlock is employed in the preparation of Juice of Conium, Conium Ointment, and the green Extract of Conium. </div> <div> The British pharmacopoeia directs that the leaves and young branches should be gathered from wild British plants when the flowers are fully matured, and the fruits are just beginning to form, as they then possess their greatest medicinal activity. This is about the end of June. The smaller leaves are selected and the larger stalks picked out and discarded. </div> <div> The leaves separated from the branches and dried are also official. </div> <div> The dried ripe fruit<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > is official in the British Pharmacopceia, and the Pharmacopceia of India, but in the Pharmacopceia of the United States the full-grown fruit, gathered before it turns from green to yellow and carefully dried, is directed to be used. </FONT></div> <div> Hemlock fruits were introduced into British medicine in 1864 as a substitute for the dried leaf in making the tincture, but it has been shown that a tincture, whether of leaf or fruit, is far inferior to the preserved juice of the herb. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>By far the most important constituent of hemlock leaves is the alkaloid Coniine, of which they may contain, when collected at the proper time, as much as 2.77 per cent the average being 1.65 per cent. When pure, Coniine is a volatile, colourless, oily liquid, strongly alkaline, with poisonous properties and having a bitter taste and a disagreeable, penetrating, mouse-like odour. </div> <div> There are also present the alkaloids, Methyl-coniine, Conhydrine, Pseudoconhydrine, Ethyl piperidine, mucilage, a fixed oil and 12 per cent of ash. </div> <div> Hemlock fruits have essentially the same active constituents, but yield a greater portion of Coniine than the leaves. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>As a medicine, Conium is sedative and antispasmodic, and in sufficient doses acts as a paralyser to the centres of motion. In its action it is, therefore, directly antagonistic to that of Strychnine, and hence it has been recommended as an antidote to Strychnine poisoning, and in other poisons of the same class, and in tetanus, hydrophobia, etc. (In mediaeval days, Hemlock mixed with betony and fennel seed was considered a cure for the bite of a mad dog.) </div> <div> On account of its peculiar sedative action on the motor centres, Hemlock juice (<I>Succus conii</I>) is prescribed as a remedy in cases of undue nervous motor excitability, such as teething in children, epilepsy from dentition. cramp, in the early stages of paralysis agitans, in spasms of the larynx and gullet, in acute mania, etc. As an inhalation it is said to relieve cough in bronchitis, whooping-cough, asthma, etc. </div> <div> The drug has to be administered with care, as narcotic poisoning may result from internal use, and overdoses produce paralysis. In poisonous doses it produces complete paralysis with loss of speech, the respiratory function is at first depressed and ultimately ceases altogether and death results from asphyxia. The mind remains unaffected to the last. In the account of the death of Socrates, reference is made to loss of sensation as one of the prominent symptoms of his poisoning, but the dominant action is on the motor system. It is placed in Table II of the Poison Schedule. </div> <div> Hemlock was formerly believed to exercise an alterative effect in scrofulous disorders. Both the Greek and Arabian physicians were in the practice of using it for the cure of indolent tumours, swellings and pains of the joints, as well as for affections of the skin. Among the moderns Baron Storch was the first to call the attention of medical men to its use, both externally and internally, for the cure of cancerous and other ulcers, and in the form of a poultice or ointment it has been found a very valuable application to relieve pain in these cases. </div> <div> In the case of poisoning by Hemlock, the antidotes are tannic acid, stimulants and coffee, emetics of zinc, or mustard and castor oil, and, if necessary, artificial respiration. It is essential to keep up the temperature of the body. </div> <div> Like many other poisonous plants, when cut and dried, Hemlock loses much of its poisonous properties, which are volatile and easily dissipated. Cooking destroys it. </div> <div> Its disagreeable odour has prevented its fatal use as a vegetable in the raw state. </div> <div> Larks and quails are said to eat Hemlock with impunity, but their flesh becomes so impregnated with the poison that they are poisonous as food. Thrushes eat the fruits with impunity, but ducks have been poisoned by them. </div> <div> Coles' <I>Art of Simpling</I>: </div> <div> 'If Asses chance to feed much upon Hemlock, they will fall so fast asleep that they will seeme to be dead, in so much that some thinking them to be dead indeed have flayed off their skins, yet after the Hemlock had done operating they have stirred and wakened out of their sleep, to the griefe and amazement of the owners.' </div> <div>  <A NAME="adu"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Adulteration---</B>Commercial Conium occasionally contains the leaves of other umbelliferous plants somewhat like it in appearance, or it may even be almost wholly composed of such plants. Anise has been used as an adulterant of the fruit. </div> <div> Among umbelliferous plants most frequently mistaken for the true Hemlock <I>Anthriscus sylvestris</I> (Wild Chervil) an <I>Æthusa Cynapium</I> (Fool's Parsley) have similar general characteristics, but are readily distinguished. <I>A. sylvestris</I> has <I>hairy</I>, not smooth leaves, its fruit is <I>elongated</I>, not broad, and the bracts of the partial involucre (or involucels) are not directed outwards, as in the Hemlock. The stem also is <I>unspotted</I>. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations and Dosages---</B>Powdered leaves 1 to 3 grains. Fluid extract of leaves, 5 to 10 drops. Fluid extract of seeds, 2 to 5 drops. Tincture seeds, B.P., 1/2 to 1 drachm. Juice of leaves, B.P., 1 to 2 drachms. Solid extract, 2 to 6 grains. Ointment, B.P. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>FOOL'S PARSLEY</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WATER DROPWORT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WATER FENNEL</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>PARSNIP, WATER</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>SKIRRET</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Hemlock, Water</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Cicuta virosa </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">Other Species</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonym---</B>Cowbane. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>Root. </div> <div> The leaves of the Water Hemlock are sometimes found admixed with those of Conium. This is a semi-aquatic plant growing in ditches and on the banks of pools and rivers, though not very common in England. It has similar properties to the true Hemlock. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_5"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>Water Hemlock is a perennial, with a short, thick, vertical, hollow rootstock, in shape somewhat like a parsnip, giving off whorls of slender, fibrous roots. The erect, very stout, hollow stem, rising 2 to 4 feet high or more, is smooth, branched and slightly furrowed. The lower leaves are large, 1 to 2 feet long and long-stalked; they are tripinnate, like the Hemlock. The upper leaves are divided into three leaflets, and each again into three (twice ternate). The flowers are pure white, arranged in rather large, longstalked umbels of 12 to 16 long, slender, curved rays. There is no general involucre. </div> <div> The Water Hemlock may be distinguished from the true Hemlock as follows: (i) The pinnae of the leaves are larger and lanceshaped; (ii) the umbel of the flowers is denser and more compact; (iii) the stem is not spotted like the true Hemlock; (iv) the odour of the plant resembles that of smallage or parsley. </div> <div> Both plants are poisonous; but while the <I>root</I> of the Water Hemlock is acrid and powerfully poisonous in its fresh state, though it loses its virulent qualities when dried, that of the true Hemlock possesses little or no active power. </div> <div> The Water Hemlock produces tetanic convulsions, and is fatal to cattle. In April, 1857, two farmer's sons were found lying paralysed and speechless close to a ditch where they had been working. Assistance was soon rendered, but they shortly expired. A quantity of the Water Hemlock grew in the ditch, where they had been employed. A piece of the root was subsequently found with the marks of teeth in it, near to where the men lay, and another piece of the same root was discovered in the pocket of one of them. </div> <div>  <A NAME="con_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Constituents---</B>A resinous body has been obtained from <I>Cicuta virosa</I> named Cicutoxin, an amorphous substance of acid reaction, of slight odour, but disagreeable taste; the dry root yields 3 to 5 per cent. The presence of a volatile alkaloid termed Cicutine has also been traced. </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> AMERICAN COWBEAN</div> <div> Botanical: Circuta maculata </div> <div> Family: N.O. Umbelliferae</div> <div> (POISON)</div> <div> The American Cowbane is closely analogous to the European species, and also possesses very poisonous properties. In several instances, children have been fatally poisoned by eating its roots. It is said to be the most poisonous plant native to the United States. </div> <div> Although it has been recommended as a remedy in nervous and sick headaches, it is very rarely used. </div> <div> No complete analysis of the plant has been published, but the alkaloid termed Cicutine, present in the European species, is said to exist in it. The seed is stated to contain an alkaloid identical with Coniine. </div> <div> The root of this American variety is even more virulent than the English one. </div> <div> See: </div> <div> <U>HEMLOCK</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WATER DROPWORT</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> WILD CHERVIL - See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>CICELY, SWEET</U></FONT> </div> <div> <U>WATER FENNEL</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>WATER PARSNIP</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <U>FOOL'S PARSLEY</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <div> Hemp, Agrimony</div> <div> See <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Agrimony</U></FONT>. </div> <bR> <div> Hemp, Canadian</div> <div> Botanical: Apocynum Cannabinum (LINN.), Apocynum Androsaemum </div> <div> Family: N.O. Apocynaceae</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">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>Black Indian Hemp. Dogsbane. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Dried rhizome, roots. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>United States of America, Canada. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>This plant must not be confused with Indian Hemp (<I>Cannabis Indica</I>). Both species have a milky juice and a tough fibrous bark, which when macerated affords a substitute for hemp, hence its common name. It is used in California for making twine, bags, cordage, fishing-nets, lines, and a coarse kind of linen. When the milky juice is properly dried it exhibits the properties of india-rubber. The corolla of this plant secretes a sweet liquid, which attracts flies and other insects to settle on them; the scales in the throat of the corolla are very sensitive, and as soon as the insects settle on them, they bend inwards and make them prisoners. None of these plants possess any great beauty, all are more or less poisonous and acrid. In <I>Apocynum Cannabinum</I>, a perennial herb, the stems and branches are upright, headed by erect many-flowered stems, leaves nearly sessile; it grows in gravelly or sandy soil, mostly near streams. While <I>A. Androsaemifolium</I>, or Dogsbane, has spreading forked branches, leaves slender petioled cymes, loose and spreading, grows in dry thickets and open woods, and is distinguished from <I>A. Cannabinum</I> by the root, thick-walled stone cells which are arranged in a broken circle, near middle of the bark, short fracture, with some pith occurring in pieces of the rhizome, very slight odour, taste starchy, afterwards bitter and acrid. </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 activity of the plants is due to a very bitter principle of a glucose nature to which is applied the name of Symarin. Apocynum belongs to the digitalis group of heart tonics, and acts very much in the same way, differing only from foxglove in the relative degree of its different effects. It is the most powerful of the group, often causing sickness and diarrhoea; it acts more irritantly on the mucous membrane than either strophanthus, or digitalis, and it may be this stimulating effect which is the cause of its violent diuretic action, though some authorities consider that this is caused by dilatation of the renal arteries. <I>A. Docynum</I> is the crystalline lactone cynotoxin, the crystalline substance. Apocynin is identical with acetovanillone. <I>A. Androsaemifolium</I> contains apocyanamarin, identical with cynotoxin, also apocynin and its glucoside, androsin ipuranil; the two phytosterols androsterol and homo-androsterol, and other fatty acids. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_6"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>Diuretic, diaphoretic, expectorant. Should only be prescribed with the greatest caution. It is a very valuable heart tonic of great service in dropsy resulting from heart failure; it is also to be highly recommended in the ascites of hepatic cirrhosis, but care must be taken that it does not accumulate in the system. It causes violent vomiting. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>1 to 5 grains. </div> <div>  <A NAME="pre_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Preparations---</B>Fluid extract of Apocynum, U.S.P., 15 minims. Tincture of Apocynum, 5 to 10 minims. </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> HEMP, AFRICAN, or Bowstring (<I>Sanseviera guineenesis</I>, N.O. Liliaceae), native of tropical Africa, also <I>S. Roxburghiana</I>, a native of India, and <I>S. Angolensis</I>, native of western tropical Africa. The leaves contain much fibre for making ropes, the latter producing the best kind of fibre for deep-sea soundings and dredging lines. </div> <div> HEMP, KENTUCKY (<I>Urtica Canadensis</I> and <I>Cannabina</I>, N. O. Urticaceae), natives of Canada and Northern U.S. These also contain a strong fibre and are known by the name given above. </div> <div> HEMP, MANILLA, the fibre of <I>Musitextilis</I> (N.O. Musaceae), native of the Philippines, cultivated in India, and other countries, for its fibre, of which there are two qualities, the finer made into shawls and the coarser into ropes. </div> <div> HEMP, SUNN, the Indian name for the fibre of <I>Crotalaria Juncea</I> (N.O. Leguminosae), native of India; it gives a very strong fibre, useful for ropes, canvas, etc. </div> <div> HEMP, JUBBULPORE (<I>Crotalaria tenuifolia</I>), The plant closely resembles Sunn Hemp (<I>C. Juncea</I>). </div> <bR> <div> Hemp, Indian</div> <div> <B>POISON!</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> (<B>Please DO NOT</B> e-mail me about this being listed as a Poison. This is the way it is listed in the original edition, published in 1931, by Mrs. Grieve. I’ve attempted to keep the "electronic" version as faithful as possible to the original - Editor, botanical.com) </div> <div> Botanical: Cannabis sativa (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">Dosage</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Cannabis Indica. Cannabis Chinense. Ganeb. Ganja. Kif. Hanf. Tekrouri. Chanvre. </div> <div> <B>---Part Used---</B>The dried, flowering tops of the female, or pistillate plants. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>India. </div> <div> <I>Habitat</I>. In Britain, and formerly elsewhere, only Hemp grown in India was recognized as official, but the heavy tax has resulted in the admission by the United States of any active <I>Cannabis sativa</I>, whether grown in the States or in Africa, Turkey, Turkestan, Asia Minor, Italy, or Spain. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B>The plant is an annual, the erect stems growing from 3 to 10 feet or more high, very slightly branched, having greyish-green hairs. The leaves are palmate, with five to seven leaflets (three on the upper leaves), numerous, on long thin petioles with acute stipules at the base, linear-lanceolate, tapering at both ends, the margins sharply serrate, smooth and dark green on the upper surface, lighter and downy on the under one. The small flowers are unisexual, the male having five almost separate, downy, pale yellowish segments, and the female a single, hairy, glandular, five-veined leaf enclosing the ovary in a sheath. The ovary is smooth, one-celled, with one hanging ovule and two long, hairy thread-like stigmas extending beyond the flower for more than its own length. The fruit is small, smooth, light brownish-grey in colour, and completely filled by the seed. </div> <div> Hemp grows naturally in Persia, Northern India and Southern Siberia, and probably in China. It is largely cultivated in Central and Southern Russia. It is sometimes found as a weed in England, probably due to seeds from birdcages, as they are much used in feeding tame birds. The drug that is official in Europe comes from Bogra and Rajshabi, north of Calcutta, or sometimes from Guzerat and Madras. It is called <I>Guaza</I> by London merchants. </div> <div> It is imported in parcels of small masses, with flowers, smaller leaves and a few ripe fruits pressed together by sticky, resinous matter. It is rough, brittle, dull-green in colour and almost tasteless, with a peculiar, slightly narcotic odour. It should be freed from resin by macerating in spirit and then soaking in water. The leaves are said to be picked off to form <I>bhang</I>, and the little shoots which follow these are used as above, and called <I>ganja</I>. It is exported from Bombay in wooden cases. Two-year-old ganja is almost inert, and the law requires it to be burnt in the presence of excise officers. In the Calcutta areas the short tops are rolled under foot instead of being trodden, the weight of the workers being supported by a horizontal bamboo pole. This variety is very active, and is usually re-exported from England to the West Indies. </div> <div> Hemp is prepared in various forms. <I>Ganja</I> is smoked like tobacco. <I>Bhang</I>, <I>sidhee</I>, or <I>subjee</I> is the dried, larger leaves, broken or mixed with a few fruits. It is pounded with water to make a drink, and is the chief ingredient of the sweetmeat <I>majun</I>. <I>Churrus</I> or <I>charas</I> is the resin which exudes spontaneously from the leaves, tops and stems. A usual way of collecting it is for men in leathern garments to rush through the bushes, the resin being afterwards scraped off the clothes. In Nepal the plant is squeezed between the palms of the hands, and in Baluchistan the resin is separated by rubbing the dried plant carefully between carpets. This is the <I>hashish</I>, <I>haschisch</I>, or <I>hashash</I> of the Arabians, the word 'assassin' being said to be derived from it, owing to the wild, fanatical courage given by its use. In Persia the woollen carpets, after scraping, are washed with water, and the evaporated extract is sold cheaply. Another way is to collect the dust after stirring dry bhang, this impure form of resin being only used for smoking. </div> <div> Flat cakes called <I>hashish</I> by the Russians are a preparation made from Hemp in Central Asia, and also called <I>nasha</I>. </div> <div> In Thibet <I>momea</I> or <I>mimea</I> is said to be made with Hemp and human fat. </div> <div> Many electuaries and pastes are made with butter or other oily foundation, such as <I>majun</I> of Calcutta, <I>mapouchari</I> of Cairo, and the <I>dawames</I> of the Arabs. </div> <div> The <I>madjound</I> of the Algerians is a mixture of honey and hashish powder. </div> <div> <I>Hemp Fibre</I> is best produced by the plants in cooler latitudes, the best being obtained from Italy, but much from Russia. About one and a half million hundredweight are imported annually for cordage, sacking, and sail-cloths. </div> <div> A <I>varnish</I> is made from the pressed <I>seeds</I>. </div> <div> Two or three green twigs collected in spring and placed in beds will drive bedbugs from the room. </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>Cannabinone or Hemp resin is soluble in alcohol and ether. Cannabinol is separated from it. It is fawn-coloured, in thin layers, and burns with a clear, white flame, leaving no ash. This is the active principle. There is a small amount of ambercoloured volatile oil, one of the linseed-oil group. It has been resolved into a colourless liquid called <I>cannabene</I>, and a solid hydride of this. </div> <div> It is said that a volatile alkaloid has been found in the tops, resembling nicotine. It also contains alcoholic extract, ash, and the alkaloid Choline. </div> <div>  <A NAME="med_7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Medicinal Action and Uses---</B>The principal use of Hemp in medicine is for easing pain and inducing sleep, and for a soothing influence in nervous disorders. It does not cause constipation nor affect the appetite like opium. It is useful in neuralgia, gout, rheumatism, delirium tremens, insanity, infantile convulsions, insomnia, etc. </div> <div> The tincture helps parturition, and is used in senile catarrh, gonorrhoea, menorrhagia, chronic cystitis and all painful urinary affections. An infusion of the seed is useful in after pains and prolapsus uteri. The resin may be combined with ointments, oils or chloroform in inflammatory and neuralgic complaints. </div> <div> The drug deteriorates rapidly and hence is very variable, so that it is best given in ascending quantities to produce its effect. The deterioration is due to the oxidation of cannabinol and it should be kept in hermetically-sealed containers. </div> <div> The action is almost entirely on the higher nerve centres. It can produce an exhilarating intoxication, with hallucinations, and is widely used in Eastern countries as an intoxicant, hence its names 'leaf of delusion,' 'increaser of pleasure,' 'cementer of friendship,' etc. The nature of its effect depends much on the nationality and temperament of the individual. It is regarded as dangerous to sleep in a field of hemp owing to the aroma of the plants. </div> <div>  <A NAME="dos_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Dosage---</B>Tincture, B.P. and U.S.P., 5 to 15 drops. Solid extract, B.P., 1/4 to 1 grain. Fluid extract, 1 to 3 drops. Of cannabis, 1 to 3 grains. Of best hashish, for smoking, 1/4 to 1 grain. Of tincture, 10 to 30 minims. Of tincture for menorrhagia, 5 to 10 minims. three to four times a day (i.e. 24 grains of resinous extract in a fluid ounce of rectified spirit). </div> <div> Of extract, from 1 to 20 grains, according to quality. </div> <div> The following is stated to be a certain cure for gonorrhcea. Take equal parts of tops of male and female hemp in blossom. Bruise in a mortar, express the juice, and add an equal portion of alcohol. Take 1 to 3 drops every two to three hours. </div> <bR> <div> Henbane</div> <div> <B>(POISON)</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> Botanical: Hyoscyamus niger (LINN.) </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">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">Harvesting</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 of Hyoscamus</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#6633CC" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>---Synonyms---</B>Common Henbane. Hyoscyamus. Hog's-bean. Jupiter's-bean. Symphonica. Cassilata. Cassilago. Deus Caballinus. </div> <div> (<I>Anglo-Saxon</I>) Henbell. </div> <div> (<I>French</I>) Jusquiame. </div> <div> <B>---Parts Used---</B>Fresh leaves, flowering tops and branches, seeds. </div> <div> <B>---Habitat---</B>It is found throughout Central and Southern Europe and in Western Asia, extending to India and Siberia. As a weed of cultivation it now grows also in North America and Brazil. It had become naturalized in North America prior to 1672, as we find it mentioned in a work published in that year among the plants 'sprung up since the English planted and kept cattle in New England.' </div> <div> It is not considered truly indigenous to Great Britain, but occurs fairly frequently in parts of Scotland, England and Wales, and also in Ireland, and has been found wild in sixty British counties, chiefly in waste, sandy places, by road-sides, on rubbish heaps and near old buildings, having probably first escaped from the old herb gardens. It is frequently found on chalky ground and particularly near the sea. It appears to have been more common in Gerard's time (Queen Elizabeth's reign) than it is now. </div> <bR> <div> Henbane (<I>Hyoscyamus niger</I>, Linn.) is a member of the important order Solanaceae, to which belong the Potato, Tobacco and Tomato, and also the valuable Belladonna. </div> <div> There are about eleven species of the genus <I>Hyoscyamus</I>, distributed from the Canary Islands over Europe and Northern Africa to Asia. All those which have been investigated contain similar principles and possess similar properties. </div> <div> The medicinal uses of Henbane date from remote ages; it was well known to the Ancients, being particularly commended by Dioscorides (first century A.D.), who used it to procure sleep and allay pains, and Celsus (same period) and others made use of it for the same purpose, internally and externally, though Pliny declared it to be 'of the nature of wine and therefore offensive to the understanding.' There is mention of it in a work by Benedictus Crispus (A.D. 681) under the names of Hyoscyamus and Symphonica. In the tenth century, we again find its virtues recorded under the name of Jusquiasmus (the modern French name is <I>Jusquiame</I>). There is frequent mention made of it in AngloSaxon works on medicine of the eleventh century, in which it is named 'Henbell,' and in the old glossaries of those days it also appears as Caniculata, Cassilago and Deus Caballinus. </div> <div> Later it fell into disuse. It was omitted from the London Pharmacopoeia of 1746 and 1788, and only restored in 1809, its re-introduction being chiefly due to experiments and recommendations by Baron Storch, who gave it in the form of an extract, in cases of epilepsy and other nervous and convulsive diseases. </div> <div> It is supposed that this is the noxious herb referred to by Shakespeare in <I>Hamlet</I>: </div> <div> 'Sleeping within mine orchard, </div> <div> My custom always of the afternoon </div> <div> Upon my secure hour thy uncle stole, </div> <div> With juice of cursed <I>hebenon</I> in a vial, </div> <div> And in the porches of mine ear did pour </div> <div> The leprous distillment.' </div> <div> Other authorities argue that the name used here is a varied form of that by which the Yew is known in at least five of the Gothic languages, and which appears in Marlowe and other Elizabethan writers as 'hebon.' There can be little doubt that Shakespeare took both the name and the use of this plant from Marlowe, who mentions 'juice of hebon' as a deadly poison. Hebenus, according to Gower, is a 'sleepy tree.' Spenser, too, makes 'heben' a tree, and speaks of 'the deadly heben bow,' a weapon that could hardly be made of Henbane. 'This tree,' wrote Lyte in his <I>Herball</I>, 1578, 'is altogether venomous and against man's nature; such as do only sleepe under the shadow thereof become sicke and sometimes they die,' whereas he <I>recommends</I> the juice of Henbane as an application for earache. </div> <div> Speaking of Henbane, Gerard says: </div> <div> 'The leaves, the seeds and the juice, when taken internally cause an unquiet sleep, like unto the sleep of drunkenness, which continueth long and is deadly to the patient. To wash the feet in a decoction of Henbane, as also the often smelling of the flowers causeth sleep.' </div> <div> Culpepper says: </div> <div> 'I wonder how astrologers could take on them to make this an herb of Jupiter: and yet Mizaldus, a man of penetrating brain, was of that opinion as well as the rest: the herb is indeed under the dominion of Saturn and I prove it by this argument: All the herbs which delight most to grow in saturnine places are saturnine herbs. Both Henbane delights most to grow in saturnine places, and whole cart loads of it may be found near the places where they empty the common Jakes, and scarce a ditch to be found without it growing by it. Ergo, it is a herb of Saturn. The leaves of Henbane do cool all hot inflammations in the eyes.... It also assuages the pain of the gout, the sciatica, and other pains in the joints which arise from a hot cause. And applied with vinegar to the forehead and temples, helps the headache and want of sleep in hot fevers.... The oil of the seed is helpful for deafness, noise and worms in the ears, being dropped therein; the juice of the herb or root doth the same. The decoction of the herb or seed, or both, kills lice in man or beast. The fume of the dried herb stalks and seeds, burned, quickly heals swellings, chilblains or kibes in the hands or feet, by holding them in the fume thereof. The remedy to help those that have taken Henbane is to drink goat's milk, honeyed water, or pine kernels, with sweet wine; or, in the absence of these, Fennel seed, Nettle seed, the seed of Cresses, Mustard or Radish; as also Onions or Garlic taken in wine, do all help to free them from danger and restore them to their due temper again. Take notice, that this herb must never be taken inwardly; outwardly, an oil, ointment, or plaister of it is most admirable for the gout . . . to stop the toothache, applied to the aching side....' </div> <div> The leaves or roots eaten produce maniacal delirium, if nothing worse. Another old writer says: </div> <div> 'If it be used either in sallet or in pottage, then doth it bring frenzie, and whoso useth more than four leaves shall be in danger to sleepe without waking.' </div> <div> It is poisonous in all its parts, and neither drying nor boiling destroys the toxic principle. The leaves are the most powerful portion, even the odour of them when fresh will produce giddiness and stupor. Accidental cases of poisoning by Henbane are, however, not very common, as the plant has too unpleasant a taste and smell to be readily mistaken for any esculent vegetable, but its roots, which are thick and somewhat like those of salsafy, have sometimes been gathered and eaten. In one case recorded, a woman pulled up a quantity of Henbane roots which she found in a field, supposing them to be parsnips. She boiled them in soup, which was eaten by the family. The whole of the nine persons who had partaken of them suffered severely, being soon seized with indistinctness of vision, giddiness and sleepiness, followed by delirium and convulsions. </div> <div> It is also recorded that the whole of the inmates of a monastery were once poisoned by using the roots instead of chicory. The monks partaking of the roots for supper were all more or less affected during the night and following day, being attacked with a sort of delirious frenzy, accompanied in many cases by such hallucinations that the establishment resembled a lunatic asylum. </div> <div> The herb was used in magic and diabolism, for its power of throwing its victims into convulsions. It was employed by witches in their midnight brews, and from the leaves was prepared a famous sorcerer's ointment. </div> <div> Anodyne necklaces were made from the root and were hung about the necks of children as charms to prevent fits and to cause easy teething. </div> <div> In mythology, we read that the dead in Hades were crowned with it as they wandered hopelessly beside the Styx. </div> <div> The herb is also called Hog's-bean, and both its botanical name <I>Hyoscyamus</I> and the tenth-century <I>Jusquiasmus</I> are derived from the Greek words <I>hyos</I> and <I>cyamos</I>, signifying 'the bean of the hog,' which animal is supposed to eat it with impunity. An old AngloSaxon name for it was 'Belene,' probably from the bell-shaped flowers; then it became known as 'Hen-bell,' and from the time that its poisonous properties were recognized this name was changed to 'Henbane,' because the seeds were thought to be fatal to poultry. Dr. Prior is inclined to think that the name Henbane is derived from the Spanish <I>hinna</I> (a mule), e.g. 'henna bell,' referring to the similarity of its seed-vessel to the bell hung upon the neck of the mules. </div> <div> Although swine are said to feed upon the leaves and suffer no ill effects, this plant should not be allowed to grow in places to which cattle have access, though they seldom touch it, and its effects seem less violent on most of the larger domestic animals than on man, sheep will sometimes eat it when young, and it has occasionally been noticed that no bad effects have followed. Cows, however, have been poisoned by having Henbane mixed with their forage, it is said for the purpose of fattening them. A small quantity of the seeds of the Stramonium or Thornapple, as well as those of Henbane, are also sometimes added, the idea appears to be that the tendency to stupor and repose caused by these plants is conducive to fattening. In some districts, horse-dealers mix the seeds of Henbane with their oats, in order to fatten their animals. </div> <div>  <A NAME="des_8"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><B>---Description---</B><I>H. niger</I> is susceptible of considerable diversity of character, causing varieties which have by some been considered as distinct species. Thus the plant is sometimes <I>annual</I>, the stem almost unbranched, smaller and less downy than in the <I>biennial</I> form, the leaves shorter and less hairy and the flowers often yellow, without any purple markings. The annual plant also flowers in July or August, the biennial in May and June. </div> <div> The annual and biennial form spring indifferently from the same crop of seed, the former growing during summer to a height of from 1 to 2 feet, and flowering and perfecting seed, the latter producing the first season only a tuft of radical leaves, which disappear in winter, leaving underground a thick, fleshy root, from the crown of which arises in spring a branched, flowering stem, usually much taller and more vigorous than the flowering stems of the annual plants. The annual form is apparently produced by the weaker and later developed seeds formed in the fruit at the ends of the shoots; it is considered to be less active than the typical species and differs in being of dwarfed growth and having rather paler flowers. The British drug of commerce consists of dense flowering shoots only, and of larger size. </div> <div> Both varieties are used in medicine, but the biennial form is the one considered official. The leaves of this biennial plant spread out flat on all sides from the crown of the root like a rosette; they are oblong and egg-shaped, with acute points, stalked and more or less sharply toothed, often more than a foot in length, of a greyish-green colour and covered with sticky hairs. These leaves perish at the appearance of winter. The flowering stem pushes up from the root-crown in the following spring, ultimately reaching from 3 to 4 feet in height, and as it grows, becoming branched and furnished with alternate, oblong, unequally lobed, stalkless leaves, which are stem-clasping and vary considerably in size, but seldom exceed 9 or 10 inches in length. These leaves are pale green in colour, with a broad conspicuous mid-rib, and are furnished on both sides (but particularly on the veins on the under surface) with soft, glandular hairs, which secrete a resinous substance that causes the fresh leaves to feel unpleasantly clammy and sticky. Similar hairs occur on the sub-cylindrical branches. The flowers are shortly stalked, the lower ones growing in the fork of the branches, the upper ones stalkless, crowded together in onesided, leafy spikes, which are rolled back at the top before flowering, the hairy, leafy, coarsely-toothed bracts becoming smaller upwards. The flowers have a hairy, pitchershaped calyx, which remains round the fruit and is strongly veined, with five stiff, broad, almost prickly lobes. The corollas are obliquely funnel-shaped, upwards of an inch across, of a dingy yellow or buff, marked with a close network of lurid purple veins. A variety sometimes occurs in which the corolla is not marked with these purple veins. The seed-capsule opens transversely by a convex lid and contains numerous small seeds. Perhaps the most striking feature of the plant are these curious seed-vessels, a very detailed description of which is given in the works of Flavius Josephus, as it was upon this capsule that one of the ornaments of the Jewish High Priests' head-dress was modelled. The whole plant has a powerful, oppressive, nauseous odour. </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>Henbane is in such demand for medicinal purposes that it is necessary to cultivate it, the wild plants not yielding a sufficient supply. Both varieties were formerly cultivated in England, but at present the biennial is almost solely grown. Englishgrown Henbane has always been nearly sufficient to provide enough fresh leaves for the preparation of the juice, or green extract, but large quantities, chiefly of the annual kind, were imported before the War from Germany, Austria and Russia, in the form of dry leaves. </div> <div> Henbane will grow on most soils, in sandy spots near the sea, on chalky slopes, and in cultivation flourishing in a good loam. </div> <div> It is, however, very capricious in its growth, the seeds being prone to lie dormant for a season or more, refusing to germinate at all in some places, and the crop varying without any apparent reason, sometimes dying in patches. In some maritime localities it can be grown without any trouble. It requires a light, moderately rich and well-drained soil for successful growth and an open, sunny situation, but does not want much attention beyond keeping the ground free from weeds. </div> <div> The seed should be sown in the open early in May or as soon as the ground is warm, as thinly as possible, in rows 2 to 2 1/2 feet apart, the seedlings thinned out to 2 feet apart in the rows, as t