154 FLORA HlbTORlCA. 



ties of Valerian are more energetic when gathered 

 before the plant rises into stalk. It acts as a sudo- 

 rific, diuretic, and, in some measure, a deobstruent, 

 exerting a peculiar influence on the nervous system. 

 It appears, however, from experience, that all per- 

 sons are not equally susceptible of its impression, 

 as no sensible effect could be perceived in many, 

 whilst others have been cured of epilepsies, and 

 other desperate disorders of the nervous system, 

 by the sole use of it. In the present practice, it 

 is prescribed for hysteric and nervous affections."" 

 ■ — Waller. 



Ettmuller highly extols its virtues in strengthen- 

 ing the eyesight, where it is weakened, especially 

 by a want of energy of the optic nerves. In many 

 parts of the continent the veterinary surgeons make 

 great use of it for that purpose, especially to pre- 

 serve and restore the sight of horses. 



