140 Eupatorium perfoliatum., 
Neither does it seem probable to me, that the sensible or other 
known properties of bone-set, justify the notion, that in such cases it 
would be efficacious. From its tonic effect, indeed, it may not be 
injurious, but perhaps this is the utmost that can be said on this 
point. Certainly the inconsiderable diuretic consequences of the use 
of the herb, promise nothing beneficial in dropsies. For any effect 
it may occasionally have on the kidnies, it shares with many other 
diaphoretic remedies, which, particularly if given in warm decoc- 
tion, are well known occasionally to increase the urinary discharge.* 
Schoepf speaks of its use in gout, and recommends its external 
application for the relief of pains. 
After the preceding observations, I am fully justified in recom- 
mending the bone-set as a valuable tonic bitter, at least equal to the 
chamomile; and as a medicine truly valuable for its diaphoretic 
effects. And though its other occasional qualities are not, in them- 
selves, sufficient to recommend the plant to the notice of physicians, 
yet they certainly enhance the value of the article. The plant is 
so abundant throughout the country, that it is within the reach of 
every country physician, and those residing in cities or towns can 
also readily procure it; a circumstance which adds much to the 
satisfaction I feel in recommending it. 
-* It is not improbable that the Professor, who disclaims all knowledge of botany, and 
whose work indeed, on the Materia Medica, teems with botanical errors, may have 
mistaken the plant used in dropsies, or been misinformed. 
