426 CHIXRSK MATERIA MKDICA. 



resembles that of Moniordica cocJiin-cJiinensis^ it is sometimes 

 confounded with that innocuous plant. The seeds are common- 

 ly used to poison dogs, and are forbidden to be sold to strange 

 persons. A considerable amount of uncertainty exists as to the 

 identification of this substance as found in the shops ; for while 

 the above statement, as to the poisonous properties of the seeds, 

 and caution in regard to their sale, is given, the kernels are 

 still said to be non-poisonous. These kernels are said to be 

 useful in the treatment of the one hundred and twenty 

 diseases, and are especially recommended in fever, throat 

 affections, ague, and abdominal enlargements. They are 

 powdered and enter into the composition of ointments for the 

 dispersion of swellings, and the powder is blown into the 

 throat in the treatment of cynache. Made into a mass, it is 

 sometimes introduced into the vagina to produce abortion. 



STYRAX BENZOIN.—^ ,t, # (An-hsi-hsiang). The 

 Sanscrit name is represented by \^ ^ ^ ^ (Ch'u-pei-lo- 

 hsiang). This drug is said to be used by makers of incense, 

 but on account of its cost it is probable that very little is so 

 employed. According to Dr. Williams it is imported into 

 Southern China from Borneo and Sumatra. '\:\\^ Aii-hsi^ in the 

 Chinese name, probably refers to the Parthians, or Persians, 

 whose country together with Anam, Sumatra, and Central 

 Asia, is said to have yielded this foreign drug. The tree is 

 said to have evergreen four-cornered leaves and to resemble 

 the ]\Ielia azedarach. Disinfectant, deodorizing, carminative, 

 cordial, stimulant, arthritic, and sedative properties are 

 ascribed to the drug. It is prescribed in worms, griping pains 

 in the abdomen, and other diseases of children. A very 

 curious and amusing test is given for ascertaining the purity 

 of this drug ; if genuine the fumes from burning this substance 

 will attract rats and mice, and is also said to drive away devils 

 and attract good spirits. However, this should not be adduced 

 as a proof that the Chinese consider rats to be good spirits. 

 The drug is recommended in spermatorrhoea. 



Liquid benzoin. — ^ ,f, filj (An-hsi-yu). This is men- 

 tioned in the Pentsao as a treacle- like oil with all the properties 

 of the gum benzoin. It is sold in small bottles in the large 



