214 A COMPENDIUM OF 
Solidago, Golden Rod, Solidago Odoro.— 
Natural order Composite. This very common 
plant is a native of the United States and other 
sections of North America. It has a creeping, 
perennial root, which sends up a slender, pu- 
bescent stem two or three feet high, adorned 
with linear lanceolate-shaped leaves of a dull 
green color, rough on the edges, with very acute 
apexes; surfaces covered with many pellucid 
dots; in length 1 or 2 inches (3 to 5 millime- 
ters). The leaves are the part usedin medicine 
and are sessile on the stem; flowers of a golden 
yellow color, arranged in terminal, panicled ra- 
cemes. The florets of the ray are strap-shaped, 
five stamens united (syn genesia) by the anthers, 
which is a distinguishing mark of this order or 
family; odor pleasantly aromatic; taste bitter 
and somewhat sweet. Golden rod contains /an- 
nin, Sum, extractive matter and a volatile oil; 
the virtue of the plant depends upon the latter 
constituent. The laeves are said to be carmin- 
ative, stimulant and diaphoretic in their action 
and given in form of an infusion, the dose of 
which is % to 1 fluid ounce; not officinal. The 
flowers are said to make an agreeable table tea. 
The name is derived from the two Latin words 
soledo, to write or make firm, and odora, odor- 
ous or sweet smelling. 
Tanacetum, Tansy, Tanacetum Vulgare.— 
Natural order Composite. This hardy plant, 
with its perennial root, sends up a hexagonal- 
shaped stem, one ar two feet high, ornamented 
with rich green leaves, about six inches (15 cen- 
timeters) long, doubly pinnatifid; divisions very 
numerous and deeply notched or serrated, with 
