4172-2 
always shows, on section, holes in its cortex, through which the fibrous rootlets 
pass (see figure, Plate 177); this is not so in Aletris root, and will always serve 
as a distinguishing point between them. 
Aletris was held in high repute by the Aborigines as a stomachic, bitter tonic, 
and emmenagogue; from them it passed into the hands of the laity and herbalists. 
Probably the first printed notice of the plant appeared, unnamed, in 1730." It 
was introduced into England in 1768, but received little attention except for its 
extreme bitterness. Pursh speaks of the benefits obtained from this drug in colic; 
Dr. Cullen recommends it in rheumatism, and Dr. Thacher in anasarca. Dr. Bige- 
low judges that it probably will prove a tonic bitter of value, remarking at the 
same time that he knows of no plant which surpasses it in genuine, intense, and 
permanent bitterness. Rafinesque claims that it relieves flatulent and hysteric 
colic, speedily avails in fevers, is too powerful for bitters, and in large doses is 
narcotic. The first notice given of its action upon the female organs of repro- 
duction is in Eclectic practice, where it receives consideration in chlorosis, dys- 
menorrheea, engorged uteri, amenorrhcea, and prolapsus. 
The officinal preparation in the Eclectic Materia Medica is Extractum Aletri- 
dis Alcoholicum, 
PART USED AND PREPARATION.—The fresh root is chopped and pounded 
to a pulp, and treated as in the preceding drug. The resulting tincture has a clear 
orange color by transmitted light, no characteristic odor, a very bitter taste, and 
an acid reaction. 
CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS.—No analysis has yet been made to determine 
the’properties of the bitter principle of this species, which, however, proves more 
soluble in alcohol than in water. The Tilden’s analysis} determines a large 
proportion of a bitter extractive, resin, and coloring-matter, besides the usual 
constituents of plants. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION.—Aletris proves, when used in the fresh state, 
emetic, cathartic, and somewhat narcotic; this mostly disappears on drying. In 
smaller doses it produces vertigo, stupefaction, colic in the hypogastrium, and 
heaviness in the uterine region. The drug deserves a very thorough proving, as, 
from clinical results, it seems especially adapted to many forms of uterine trouble 
_ that appeal to our utmost care. 4 
DESCRIPTION OF PLATE 172. 
1. Whole plant, Landisville, N. J., July 3d, 1885. 
2. Flower. 
on 3- Perianth, opened. 
eee 4. Stamen. 
5- Pistil. 
6. Horizontal section of ovary. 
(2-6 enlarged.) 
+t SFourn. Mat. Med., N. S-» 2 23% 4 
