87-2 
PART USED AND PREPARATION.—The fresh root is chopped and pounded 
to a pulp and weighed. Then two parts by weight of alcohol are taken, the pulp 
thoroughly mixed with one-sixth part of it, and the rest of the alcohol added. 
After thorough succussion, the whole is poured into a well-stoppered bottle, and 
allowed to stand eight days ina dark, cool place. The tincture thus prepared 
should, after straining and filtering, have a deep yellowish-brown color by trans- 
mitted light; a characteristic, uncomparable odor—that of the bruised leaves; an 
aromatic, slightly bitter taste; and an acid reaction. 
CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS.—No analysis has, as far as we are able to 
ascertain, been made of this plant since Baierus found that by fermentation, dis- 
tillation, and mixture with water, a fragrant sapid liquor was obtained, with a thin 
fragrant oil upon the surface. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—Mugwort is said to cause increase of epileptic 
spasms; irritation of the nervous system; profuse sweat, having a fetid, cadaver- 
ous odor, resembling garlic; violent contractions of the uterus; labor-like pains; 
prolapsus and rupture of the uterus; miscarriage; metrorrhagia; and increase of 
lochial discharges.* 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 87. 
1. A portion of a panicle, from Salem, Mass., August roth, 1885. 
* Noak and Trinks. 
