158 DIRCA PALUSTRIS. 
emetic, and sometimes cathartic, It was found 
to be deteriorated by keeping, and did not pro- 
duce the same effects when very old. In conse- 
quence of some statements which have been 
made in regard to its vesicating properties, Dr. 
Locke applied portions of the bark moistened with 
vinegar to the skin of his arm. In twelve hours 
no effect was produced, in’ twenty four some red- 
ness and itching took place and in thirty a com- 
plete vesication followed. : A 
The fruit of the Dirca has been suspected of 
narcotic properties. Dr. Perkins, of Hanover, 
N. H. has communicated the case of a child 
which had eaten these berries with effects like 
those produced by Stramonium, such as stupor, 
insensibility, and dilatation of the pupils. An 
emetic brought up the berries and the child grad- 
‘ually recovered, A medical student who took 
several of the berries found that they produced 
nausea and giddiness. 
The medicinal action of the bark of the Direa 
probably depends on its acrid constituents, which 
appear to be partly of a resinous and partly of a 
volatile nature. Its properties appear somewhat 
allied to those of Polygala senega, for which it 
might perhaps be substituted in small quanti- 
ties. It is best given in substance, though on ac- 
