LYCOPODIACE, 751 
tributed, occurring in cold, temperate and warm climates. Jilus- 
trative Genera :—Lycopodium, Linn. ; Psilotum, Swartz. There 
are about 100 species. 
Properties and Uses. —Many species contain an acrid principle. 
In moderate doses they are frequently emetic and purgative, but 
in large doses they occasionally produce poisonous effects. Some 
are reputed to possess aphrodisiac properties. The spores of 
several are inflammable, 
Lycopodium.—L. clavatum, the common Club-moss, possesses well-marked 
emetic and purgative properties, and is also reputed to be diuretic and em- 
menagogue. The spores have been employed externally for their absorbent 
qualities, in erysipelas and various cutaneous affections; and when taken 
internally they are said to be diuretic, sedative, and demulcent. These spores 
are of a yellow colour, and are sometimes known as vegetable sulphur. Besides 
their use medicinally, as just alluded to, they are occasionally employed in 
pharmacy for covering pills, the object sought being, to render them tasteless 
and prevent their adhering together. Lycopodium spores, however, from 
their inflammable nature, are principally used in the preparation of fire- 
works, and for the production of artificial lightning at theatres, &c.—JZ. 
Selago has similar medicinal properties, but it sometimes acts as a nar- 
cotico-acrid poison. The spores are of a like inflammable nature to those 
of L. clavatum.—L. catharticum is said to be a powerful purgative. 
ven Oe 
Fig.1119. Isoétes lacustris, Lake Quill-wort. The stem is small and corm- 
like, and bears its leaves, which are linear-cylindrical, in tufts. 
