60 Baptisia tinctoria. 
in a case of inverted uterus. The Baptisia was usedin decoction, as 
a local application to the protruded viscus which was nearly gangre- 
nous, at the same time that bark was given internally, and he remarks, 
“as to the remedy used in this case to stop the progress of gangrene, 
(Sophora tinctoria,) I am disposed to consider it a very powerful 
antiseptic ; having, besides the above, used it in a great many other 
cases wherein mortification was threatened or actually present, with 
the most decided benefit, both externally and internally.” The same 
gentleman has recently corroborated the above favourable statement 
of the antiseptic virtues of this article, in a letter addressed to a gen- 
tleman* in our University, who has made this plant the subject of his. 
inaugural dissertation. “I would observe,” says Dr. Comstock in 
the letter alluded to, “that it is used in cases of mortification, in 
fevers supposed to be putrid, and inclining to putrescency, and 
in general where antiseptics are indicated. In cases of mortification 
it is used as a poultice, applied externally, or in strong decoction as 
a fomentation. When used internally, I consider an ounce of the re- 
cent root to a pound of boiling water, about a suitable proportion. 
The quantity to be administered of this decoction, is half an ounce, 
in from four to eight hours. If it proves cathartic, the quantity is to 
be diminished, or laudanum to be given with it. I consider it to be the 
most powerful antiseptic in use, and it is very frequently resorted to 
by the people in this part of the country, and by some practitioners 
of medicine.” 
* Mr. Weems. 
