159-2 
A decoction of the heart-wood of this tree has long been used by the laity as 
an antiperiodic in intermittent fever, and as a tonic and alterative in scrofulous 
dyscrasias and dyspepsia. 
The wood is very hard, dense and tough, weighing 48 Ibs. 11 oz. per cubic 
foot, and of .779 sp. gr. It is very valuable to the farmer as a “ binder” for heavy 
loads, and for use as levers. In the manufactories it has often furnished fine cog- 
wheels and excellent handles for tools. 
PART USED AND PREPARATION.—The fresh heart-wood, in coarse pow- 
der, is covered with five parts by weight of alcohol, and allowed to remain eight 
days in a well-stoppered bottle in a dark, cool place. The tincture then separated 
by filtration should have a clear, brilliant orange-red color by transmitted light, a 
slightly aromatic odor, a peculiar astringent and bitterish taste, and an acid 
reaction. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—The heart-wood in powder or decoction causes 
headache, loss of appetite, nausea, flatulent colic, bilious defecation with great 
tenesmus, aching extremities, general debilitated condition, and diaphoresis. 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 159. 
1. End of sterile flowering branch, Binghamton, N. Y., May 16th, 188s. 
2. Superior view of staminate bract. 
- Under view of same. 
. Stamen. : 
. End of fruiting branch. 
. An involucrate scale of fruit. 
. Under view of same. 
(2-4 and 6-7 enlarged.) 
Inu bh WwW 
op 
