oO. 
The tincture, separated from this mass by filtration, should have a deep crim- 
son color, almost opaque; an odor resembling that of port wine; a slightly astrin- 
gent vinous taste; and an acid reaction. ; ee 
CHEMICAL CONSITUENTS. — O/eum Hyperici. This body is a product of 
the apparently black dots upon the petals and fruits. It gives a beautiful red 
color to alcohol and essential oils. This oil is doubtless one of the active prin- 
ciples of the plant. A resin, acrid and slightly bitter, however, is one of the most 
active, if not the active, principle. The Tilden analysis* yields a “ Bitter principle,” 
which does not appear as a result in the analyses of Blair+ or Buchner. 
Tannin, and the usual plant constituents, have also been determined. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—The compiled results of the ingestion of this 
drug are in substance as follows: Mental depression and exhaustion; vertigo and 
confusion of the head with pain, heat, and throbbing ; dilation of the pupils; nau- 
sea; profuse urination; dry, hacking cough; increased heart's action; numbness, 
weakness, and trembling of the legs; tearing pains in the upper extremities ; great 
weakness and prostration ; fuzzy feeling of the hands; restless sleep; shiverings 
and coldness of the body followed by dry heat. 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 30. 
rand 2. Whole plant, Binghamton, N, Y., July 7th, 188s. 
3 and 4. Stamens. : 
5. Pistil. 
6. Section of ovary. 
9. Leaf. 
8. Petal. 
(3-6 enlarged.) 
aeitltei rn sar ee neatnuscardussanan 
* Jour, Mat. Med.,N.Syi,232 + Am. Four. Phar, xi, 23. 
