PLANTS FURNTSHINt; ROOT DRUGS. 65 



Whilo tlio root is mot with iu coiumeivo in its ontin- state, it is luure fiv- 

 <HH'iitly in broken pieces or iu lengthwise slices, the edges of which are turned 

 inward. The roots of other species of Arctium are also employetl. 



Colhctioii, prices, ami uses. — Burdock root is odicial, and the T'nited States 

 rharnuicoiHeia directs that it be collected from plants of the tirst year's growth, 

 either of Arctium lappa or of other species of Arctium. As burdock has a rather 

 large, fleshy root, it is difficult to dry and is apt to l)ecome moldy, and for this 

 reason it is better to slice the root lengthwise, which will facilitate the drying 

 process. The price ranges from o to lU cents a pound. The best root is said to 

 come from Belgium, where great care is exerci.sed in its collection and curing. 



Burdock root is used as an alterative in blood and skin diseases. The seeds 

 and fresh leaves are also used medicinally to a limited extent. 



3510— No. 107—07 m o 



