SAXIFRAGACEZE. 589, 
removes obstructions of the viscera. The natives use a decoc- 
tion of the leaves which acts more mildly if combined with 
liquorice; it is not a very safe remedy for old and weak 
people.” 
In Cochin-China it is called Cay-thuong-son and Cham-ehau. 
In Sikkim and Bhutan the root in the form of decoction is in 
general use as a febrifuge amongst the natives; it first acts as 
an emetic, and is thus supposed indirectly to carry off the fever. 
It appears to have no active effects, unless taken in large 
es when it causes vomiting and depression of the circula- 
on. ee 
Description.—The yellow bark of the branches peels off 
in flakes. The root bark, which is generally made use of in 
India, is of a light colour, soft and corky in structure and 
almost tasteless. It occurs in the form of small chips, and has 
a faint aromatic odour. If chewed it causes a sensation of 
nausea. The external surface is fissured longitudinally, the 
internal is smooth and rather waxy. 
Chemical composition.—The ethereal extract of the root-bark 
contains a crystalline glucoside allied to esculin, which may be 
termed Dichroin. It gives an opal blue colour with soda solu- 
tion, and dissolves in sulphuric acid, showing a reddish colour 
by transmitted light, and a fine mauve-blue by reflected light. 
Bichromate of potassium with sulphuric acid forms an indigo- 
blue colour, turning yellow on the addition ofa few drops of 
water. With Nessler’s reagent it forms an opalescent solution 
and precipitate. Most of the alkaloidal reagents precipitate it, 
in acid solution, but not when neutral. It gives a purplish 
colour with ferric salts, and a pink colour with ferrous 
sulphate. 
A second crystalline principle insoluble in water is also pre- 
sent in this extract; it is soluble in alkaline liquids, and appears, 
to be a kind of wax. Dichroa root, differing from other plants. 
of the order, contains no tannin ; a small proportion of starch 
_ exists in the bark. 
