133-3 
PART USED AND PREPARATION.—The preparation is made from the root 
in the same manner as that of the preceding species. The resulting tincture has 
a deep reddish-orange color by transmitted light, a rank odor, an extremely bitter 
and penetrating taste, and an acid reaction. 
CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS.— Afocynin. This partly crystalline, bitter 
principle has been isolated by both Dr. Knapp and Dr. Griscom; its chemical 
nature has not yet been determined. It is not a glucoside, but for the present 
is supposed to hold a place in close relation to that class of bodies. It is insol- 
uble, or only slightly soluble, in water. 
Apocynéin.—This amorphous glucoside greatly resembles saponin in its 
physical properties.* It is fully soluble in water. Its chemical nature is only 
slightly known. . 
Beside the two bitter principles, Dr. Griscom (1832) found in the root, tan- 
nic and gallic acids, gum, resin and wax. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—Apocynum cannabinum has long been noted 
for its hydragogue properties, the results obtaining in this direction through its 
peculiar action upon the mucous membranes of the intestinal canal. What its 
action may be upon serous membranes is still to be determined. Its action in 
causing diuresis and diaphoresis (the latter only present when it causes emesis), 
is another point in the dark, concerning which more light is greatly to be desired. 
When nausea and vomiting occur, the action of the heart is greatly diminished, 
and a sense of mental depression and oppression of the chest almost naturally 
result. Apocynum apparently acts simply as an evacuant, and affects the organic 
trouble causing the dropsical condition for which it is usually given, little, or not 
at all. 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 133- 
1. End of fruiting and flowering branch, Binghamton, N. Y., July 22d, 1882. 
2. Part of stem, showing mode of branching. 
Flower (enlarged). 
. Flower after removal of the perianth (enlarged). 
. Flower after removal of the stamens (enlarged). 
. Side view of stamen (enlarged). 
«Seed. 
. Section of the root. 
SBI AKH YS 
* Am. Four. Phar. 1883, p. 368. a 
