VEGETABLE KINGDOM. I07 



is regarded as practically identical. The use of the ordinary 

 cultivated varieties is thought to benefit the blood and 

 circulation, and to preserve the vitality. The flowers are 

 prescribed in colds, headaches, and inflamed eyes. Pillows are 

 recommended to be made of the flowers or leaves for the 

 treatment of these difficulties. The white variety is considered 

 to be especially useful in preserving the hair from falling out 

 or turning grey. The flowers are soaked in wine, producing 

 a ''chrysanthemum wine," the use of which is considered 

 beneficial in a great variety of digestive, circulatory, and 

 nervous difficulties. The use of the dew gathered from the 

 flowers is also held in much repute in preserving and restoring 

 the vital functions. Of the wild variety, the whole plant is 

 recommended to be used. It is thought to be slightly 

 poisonous. It is employed in decoction in the treatment of 

 retained menses, and as a wash in infected and cancerous sores, 

 and as a fomentation in enlarged glands. Anti-vinous properties 

 are also ascribed to this plant. Any of these varieties, and 

 especialy the Kan-chit^ will make a good substitute for 

 chamomile. 



CICHORIUM. — It is uncertain whether this genus in 

 found in China, although Loureiro mentions it. The plants 

 are generally referred to the related genera of Sojichiis and 

 Lactuca (which see). 



CINCHONA.—^ II ^ (Chin-chi-lo). In the appendix 

 to the Pentsao it is said that the foreigners at Macao introduced 

 this drug in the fifth year of the reign of the Emperor 

 Kiaching (1801). Its specific action in the cure of malarial 

 fevers was soon recognized, and the bark was long used before 

 the introduction of quinine. Dr. Hobson did not seem to be 

 aware of this fact when he coined his term for Cinchona. Its 

 use was also highly recommended as an anti-vinous remedy. 



CINNAMOMUM CASSIA.~;g(Kuei), J(±?g(Mou-kuei), 

 ^ ^ (Ch 'iin-kuei). The cinnamon tree is a native of Kuang- 

 si ; the best quality being still produced in the prefecture of 

 Hsinchou, where it was found by Martini in 1645-1655. It is 



