158 
¥ also separated from the same four pounds of Snake-root, six 
ounces of the root itself black and putrid, like that in the pre- 
sent sample, which cannot in any way be used internally. 
The result of the examinations which I have repeatedly made 
is, that in the Virginian Snake-root, a fourth part commonly 
consists of impurities, and of some roots which, though very 
like the genuine ones, belong to different plants, as well as of 
other roots differing in thickness, shape, size, colour, and fla- 
your, intimately interwoven with the others during their growth, 
the properties of which are with difficulty ascertainable, though 
each specimen be individually, sublecteds to a deliberate exami~ 
a na lysis. es mel . 
For tear, reasons, in pom to avoid the evil consequences.re- 
sulting to mankind from the use of roots so ill assorted and con- 
ditioned, it has appeared to me highly important to present 
to this learned body a Memoir on the Star-reed, as preferable 
for medical use to the Virginian Snake-root, being a plant of 
the same genus, and more efficacious in its virtues, because it 
admits no mixture with others, either naturally or artificially, 
and because we possess it in South America in such abundance, _ 
that all Europe may be supplied with it, as soon as the com- 
merce is established, and at a much lower price in our own co- 
lonies than we pay to the English for the Snake-root; in order 
that, if the Academy think fit, they may enjoin their members to 
examine and make the necessary experiments on this vegetable 
production ; and the virtues of the Star-reed being ascertained 
by so illustrious a body, they may insert the Memorial in their 
Academical Transactions, and recommend its use in PISCE 
to that of the Virginian Snake-root. 3 
The approbation of the Royal Academy, should this paper de- 
serve it, will. serve as a compensation for my labour, anda as the 
