344 
chemistry of the Acanthaceae, that two features marked several 
species of this family :—({1) the presence of a large amount of 
potassium, and (2) the occurrence of alkaloids. The same features 
characterise the material: examined by Dr. Haas, as will be seen 
from his report given below :— 
“ REPORT on the EXAMINATION of a SAMPLE of ANTIDOTE for 
Cos ITE. 
“The sample consisted of a clear light-brown solution with a 
brown sediment. 
most part of potassium. 
__ “The dry plant-remains, from which the above antidote had been 
prepared, yielded on ignition an ash which contained a considerable 
quantity of caleium and potassium, but relatively little sodium. 
w?. HEAAS. 
It appears possible that an alkaloid might act as an antidote for 
snake-bite, but the Physiological action of the alkaloid in this 
species of Barleria must await further enquiry. 
Several Species of Acanthaceae have heen credited with medicinal 
Properties. Thus among reputed remedies for snake-bite are 
Rhinacanthus communis, N Andrographis paniculata, Nees, and 
Z “hates cristata, Linn.* The leaves of Adhatoda Vasica, Nees, 
present is held by Boorsm A ; sala 
Si the planta may oe. be responsible for any diuretic 
en eae asey Sa dysetery ; and rhinacanthin and cumarin in 
ago communis, which is used in cages of ring-worm, 
Ton) . Fendarussa, Boorsma determined the presence of an 
: oda Vastea, Nees (=Justicia Adhatoda, L.) 
; Hooper} found an alkaloid (vasicine) and another organic body 
ee : 
Econ, Prod. vy medica (1838), pp. 501-2 ; Boorsma, loc. cit. ; Watt, Dict. 
t Hooper, Pharm. J ird seri 
t Hoops ine cit, Hoe rent vol. 18, p. 841 (1888). 
