282 EXTRACTS FKOM 



small and white. These are succeeded by a smooth fiat bur, 

 containing many hard capsules, of a chocolate colour. 



The stems of this plant are quadrangular, and jointed ; 

 the fresh roots are very like the true ipecacuanha, but lose 

 their wrinkled appearance when dry, nor have they any 

 emetic quality. Decoctions of the plant are said to be astrin- 

 gent, and are given in female complaints and dysenteries, with 

 good effect. For this last purpose, however, we are acquaint- 

 ed with more powerful medicines. 



DIDYNAMIA ANGIOSPERMIA. 



95. Brunsfblsia Americana, L. — The Cup Berry-Bush. 



This is a low shrub ; it has long, narrow pointed leaves, 

 of a shining green colour, growing thick on the branches. 

 The flowers are funnel-shaped, long and white. The berry 

 is yellow, soft, and agreeable to the taste, containing many 

 seeds. 



96. Ruellia Blechum, L. — John's Bush. 



The stem of this plant is herbaceous, square, and jointed ; 

 from each joint grow four leaves; the flowers are bell-shaped 

 and blue ; the seeds naked and black. 



The juice of the leaves, mixed with tincture of gum guaia- 

 cum, is used in erosions of the palate in venereal disorders, 

 and in yaws. 



We have many deplorable instances of the dreadful effects 

 of these American maladies. The loss of the palate is com- 

 mon, and I have made cures where several spongy bones 

 have been separated, and where the nasal bones have dropped 

 out. 



These disorders in an advanced state, will yield to a simi- 

 lar method of cure, viz. mild mercurials, mixed with dia- 



