152-3 
the bark of JZ. tinctoria. In concluding this varied sub-order, we are brought to 
that terrible Javanese tree, the deadly Upas (Antiaris toxicaria, Lesch.), wader 
which most animals die; the toxic properties of this tree are, without doubt, 
greatly exaggerated, as all are not effected by its effluvia, still it is justly dreaded. 
The sub-order Urtice#, or Nettle Family, contains many plants that are 
furnished with more or less toxic stings. Of this order we have provings of 
three species, viz.: The European Stinging Nettle, Urtica Urens, Linn.; the 
Bengalese U. crenulata, Roxb., whose sting is said to be as poisonous as the bite 
of a venomous serpent; and the Australian Stinging-Tree (U. gigas). The 
Timoor U. urentissa is probably the most virulent, its effects are said to last a year, 
and in some cases to have been followed by death; the Javanese U. stimulans is 
also very venomous. Our common nettle U. dorca is diuretic and astringent; the 
Egyptian U. membranacea emmenagogue and aphrodisiac; and it is claimed that 
the smooth species U. pumila relieves inflammation, erysipelas, and is a soothing 
application to the skin after Rhus poisoning. The Brazilian Boehmeria caudata, 
Swartz, is useful for the relief of hemorrhoidal tumors; and Pz/ea muscosa, of the 
same country, is found to be an excellent remedy in dysuria. Parietaria officinalis 
is considered diuretic and anti-arthritic; and P. erecta and diffusa are said to con- 
tain more sulphur than any other known plants. 
The sub-order CanNaBINE&, or Hemp Family, contains our proven species, 
Cannabis sativa and Humulus Lupulus. 
History and Habitat.—The hackberry tree is indigenous to the Canadas and 
United States, as far south as the Carolinas. It habits more or less rich but rocky 
woods along the borders of streams, where it flowers just as the leaves appear in 
spring. It is often transplanted as a lawn shade, in such open situations it is 
much shorter in its growth and more umbrageous. 
The only previous use of this species is that credited to the Aborigines, who 
are said to have given a decoction of the bark with good effect in syphilis. This 
decoction being astringent, was sufficient for its employment by the laity and 
Botanics as a “tonic” in various forms of alimentary and hematic trouble, though 
success in its use was of doubtful occurrence. 
PART USED AND PREPARATION.— The fresh inner bark should be 
gathered when the tree is in full foliage, chopped and pounded to a pulp, and 
weighed, Then two parts by weight of alcohol should be taken, the pulp 
thoroughly mixed with one-sixth part of it, and the rest of the alcohol added. 
The whole is then to be poured into a well-stoppered bottle, and allowed to stand 
for eight days in a dark, cool place. The tincture, separated from this mass by 
decanting, pressing, and filtering, will have a deep, seal-brown color by transmitted 
light, and a strong acid reaction. This pat has neither a SS odor 
nor taste. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—Dr. J. S. Wauhe3 in his experiments ith this 
sen, a found it Reine of causing a soreness of the muscles on SB ekaowiacth sharp ve - 
OS. Med. Inet, 81 339. oe 
