An excellent extract for setting fractures is got from the raceme 
or long stalk of the inflorescence of this plant. The nectar of the 
flowers is fragrant and tasty; when applied to an aching ear, it is 
said to lessen the pain and to cure the ailment. 
Tillandsia usneoides L. Sp. Pl., Ed. 2 (1762) 411. 
(salvagina, saccropa, millmahina, cotataura) 
In warm baths, this plant is valued as an antinervine to rebuild 
physical strength and to aid in inducing sleep. The Indians fill 
mattresses with it to repell flies. It is likewise appreciably valued 
by those with back-ache and kidney trouble. Crushed and mixed 
with fat, it is applied to treat hemorrhoids. 
SMILACACEAE 
Smilax China L. Sp. Pl. (1753) 1029. 
(purampsil) 
An infusion of the roots is frequently used by the Indians to 
relieve rheumatic pains and as an excellent sudorific. Ruiz 
published more extensively on native uses of this plant in his 
Memoria sobre la Raiz de China, Real Academia Médica de 
Madrid, vol. | (1797). 
AMARYLLIDACEAE 
Agave americana L. Sp. Pl. (1753) 323. 
(pita; ancaschampascera; maguey mexicana) 
The Indians employ an infusion and decoction of the roots to 
cure rheumatic and venereal pains. It is drunk in large quantities. 
The leaves yield a “honey” or extract which is believed to be 
excellent for cleansing and healing ulcers. The leaves are roasted, 
and the juice is squeezed out whilst they are still hot. The extract 
is then boiled down to the thickness of soft honey, in which state 
it is applied with no other agent to cure not only ulcers in man but 
also sores on beasts of burden and the wounds which they often 
suffer on the head and feet. 
Alstroemia Ligtu L. Sp. Pl., Ed. 2 (1762) 462. 
(liutu) 
The Chileans extract a white starch from the roots which 
provides a soft food for babies and the elderly and those suffering 
from stomach ailments. This flour is very easily digested. 
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