without first inclosing- its roots within the narrow 

 precincts of an earthen flower pot. If this be neg- 

 lected his fragrant friend may, probably, by its 

 creeping, or rather running, roots, make a rapid 

 tour over great part of his garden. 



Having noticed the Tussilago farfara, or common 

 Coltsfoot, we may, perhaps, be allowed the present 

 opportunity of making further mention of it. 



Curtis, in his Flora Londinensis mentions a prac- 

 tice prevalent amongst the Tartars of carrying burn- 

 ing touchwood, which was probably made of the 

 roots of Tussilago, the smoke being intended to pro- 

 tect them from the annoyance of gnats. Thus the 

 invention of a pipe may have arisen in the necessity 

 of sometimes employing the breath to quicken the 

 fire. 



He further observes, 'The custom of smoking 

 this plant, which still prevails, is of ancient date. 

 Pliny directs the dried leaves and root of Coltsfoot 

 to be burnt, and the smoke drawn into the mouth 

 through a reed and swallowed, as a remedy for an 

 obstinate cough. 1 



Coughs have frequently been much relieved by 

 persons smoking the dried leaves ; and they are 

 used as the principal ingredient in the manufacture 

 of British Herb Tobacco. An infusion of the dried 

 flowers, sweetened with honey, has been found par- 

 ticularly efficacious in complaints of this nature. 



The downy substance which is found growing on 

 the under surface of the leaves of the common colts- 

 foot, when dipped in a strong solution of saltpetre, 

 and gradually dried, is said to form an admirable 

 tinder. 



Hort. Kew. 2, v. 5, 35. 



