15-3 
that its true properties were recognized. It exists in a number of other plants 
among which of particular interest to us are Coptis trifoliata, Caulophyllum and 
Xanthorrhiza. Berberin crystallizes in fine yellow needles of a strong and per- 
sistent bitter taste, losing water at 100° (212°F.), and fusing at 120° (248°F.) to 
a reddish-brown resinoid, decomposing at higher heat. Berberin is soluble in 
water and alcohol. 
Oxyacanthin,* C,, H,,N,O,, (Berbina, Vinetina), This bitter alkaloid exists 
together with the berberin in the root. It is a non-crystallizable, white, electric 
powder, but will form in needles upon the addition of ether or alcohol; it turns yellow 
by exposure in sunlight, has an alkaline reaction, loses 3.13 per cent. weight upon 
exposure to 100° (212°F-.), fuses at 139° (282°.2 F.), and like berberin decomposes 
upon subjection to higher temperatures. It is soluble in both water and alcohol, 
though not freely. (A? supra Wittstein.) 
The acidity of the leaves and fruit is due to the presence of oxalic acid. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—Berberis in moderate doses produces fever- 
ishness, inflammation of the mucous membranes from the throat to the intes- 
tines, and dysentery. It causes also a high degree of inflammation of the 
kidneys with hematuria. It seems to act with much force upon the venous 
system, causing pelvic engorgements and hemorrhoids. _ Its use in early medicine 
was purely symptomatic. The action as above given refers to man; upon animals 
no such effects appear to follow, even though experiments were made with the 
alkaloid Berberin. 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 15. 
1. End of branch in flower, with old leaves, Salem, Mass., June 4, 1880. 
2. Flower (enlarged). 
3. Fruit. 
4. Stamen (enlarged). 
5. Petal (enlarged, showing glands). 
- wince cee a eens ne . on 
* Crategus oxyacantha contains an alkaloid by this name. 
