316. MONOPETALEE —EPICOROLLEX- 
of the calyx, or by*a feathery tuft, and sometimes having 2 
empty cells ; embryo destitute of albumen. 
This family is distinguished from the Dipsacez by the want 
of the involucre, of the albumen in the seed, and by the flow- 
ers seldom being disposed in a capitulum. 
Exampies.—Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), Corn Sallad 
(Fedia olitoria). The Spikenard of the ancients, which has 
an agreeable flavour, is said to be Valeriana Jatamanst 
(Nandos rte : 
Wicncuat Py conarina.. Fake olitoria is seas 
cultivated as a sallad, and known by the name of Lamb’s 
Lettuce. ; 
Mepicinat Prorerties.—The root of the Wild Valerian 
( Valeriana officinalis) is stimulant, antispasmodic, and em- 
menagogue, and much used in nervous diseases. It is also 
anthelmintic. V. Phu, V. dioica, V. celtica, and V. Su- — 
pina, have similar properties. Valeriana Dioscoridis is said 
to be the most active in its medicinal properties. V. Ofi- 
cinalis has received the name of Allheal, from its leaves be- — 
ing frequently employed by the poor as an application to — 
fresh wounds. Cats are very fond of the odour of this plant: — 
it produces a kind of intoxication in them. 
Offcinal Plant. 
Valeriana officinalis. 
ORDER LXXL 
- RUBIACEA. 
Suellate, Lindley ; 3 pr Se 
CHARACTERS —Herbs, with quadrangular stems, ‘simple 
| entire whorled leaves, —— minute flow: 
