Cunila Mariana. A475 
now, and the bites of venomous serpents more frequent. Hence the 
country people resorted to a variety of plants for the purpose of 
healing those bites, and preventing their injurious effects on the sys- 
tem. It appears, that among other supposed specifics, the dittany 
was considered as useful. As, however, the properties of the plant 
are not sufficiently active to promise any good in such cases, this 
part of his account may be passed over. Of its use in intermittents, 
I know nothing; but in slight fevers and colds, the dittany tea is 
much used, as I know from observation and enquiry, with a view to 
excite perspiration. It still retains a considerable share of popular 
confidence as a nervine, being frequently resorted to, to relieve ner- 
vous head-achs, and various hysterical affections. I have never used, 
_ nor prescribed dittany tea; but as a warm, grateful, refreshing, and 
slightly stimulating ¢isan, it may be safely recommended. Mr. Elliot 
says, an infusion of the leaves of this plant is often given in the 
southern states, in fevers, with a view to excite perspiration. The 
dittany belongs to the class of stimulating, warm, and grateful aro- 
matics, which comprises the mints, the monardas, and pennyroyal; 
and does not, probably, differ essentially in medicinal virtues, from 
any of these. 
