NAT. ORDER. SCROPIIULARIA. 147 



and now enters largely into various compounds prepared as atonic 

 or strengthening syrup. Matterson says the herb should be col- 

 lected in clear, dry weather, and as soon as it is in bloom, as the 

 leaves frequently become mildewed after that time. It should be 

 dried in the sun, or in a warm chamber or loft, and carefully 

 guarded from a moist or damp atmosj^here, or it will acquire a 

 dark and black color. 



Medical Properties and Uses. Balmony possesses both tonic 

 and laxative properties, and, without exception, is one of the best 

 articles to promote an appetite that can be found. It can be ad- 

 ministered by itself, or in combination with other articles. Thom- 

 son says, " the balmony is a bitter of the first order, for correcting 

 the morbid secretions of the bile, removing the torpidity of the 

 liver, and creating an ap[)ctite. A tea made of the leaves is well 

 calculated to restore the digestive powers." Matterson describes 

 this plant as having long been known in New England as a tonic 

 and laxative. " It is employed in costiveness, dyspepsia, loss of 

 ajipetite, and general languor or debility. Given to children afllict- 

 ed with worms, it will generally afford relief. It is a valualile 

 medicine in disorders of the liver; and in jaundice, it tends to 

 remove the yellow tinge from the skin and eyes." Rafinesque says 

 it is an active and powerful cathartic, as well as tonic ; but of this 

 I am inclined to think he may be mistaken, as I have administered 

 it in many cases, and never found it to act as a cathartic, unless 

 frequently taken, and in extreme large doses; in which cases it 

 sometimes caused a gentle movement of the bowels. As a vermi- 

 fuce, combined with the Chcnopodlum anthehninthicum, 1 think it 

 has no superior, rarely failing to expel the worms ; it should be 

 administered in infusions, continued for a time, and followed by a 

 suitable purge. It is said that the Indians made use of a strong 

 ■lecoction of the whole plant in eruptive diseases, biles, sores, 

 scrofula, piles, &c. An even tea-spoonful of the powdered leavea 

 is a dose, and may be given in fevers, jaundice, &c. 



