Naturalisation in Extra-Tropical Countries. 19 



growth, but sometimes only of biennial duration, Tariable in its forms. 

 It was first introduced into Australia, together with a number of 

 other Aconites, by the writer. All the species possess more or less 

 modified medicinal qualities, as well in their herbage as in their 

 roots ; but so dangerously powerful are they, that the plants should 

 never be administered except as prescribed by a qualified physician. 

 Napellus-root contains three alkaloids ; aconitin, napellin and nar- 

 cotin. The foliage contains also a highly acrid volatile principle, 

 perhaps chemically not unlike that of many other Ranunculacese. 

 Aconitin, one of the most potent poisons in existence, can likewise be 

 obtained from the highly powerful Nepalese and Himalayan Aconitum 

 ferox (Wallich) and probably from several other species of the genus. 

 Aconite decreases pulsation, cardial force, respiration, febrile heat and 

 neural sensibility; it increases renal action and induces perspiration; 

 but it must be administered under the precaution, that bodily strength 

 is sufficient to overcome the depressing effect of this remedy. It can 

 thus be utilised in many and very varied diseases. 



Acorus Calamus, Linn. 



The " Sweet Flag." Europe, Middle and Northern Asia, North- 

 America. In Norway indigenous to 61 N., cultivated up to 63 26' 

 [Schuebeler]. A perennial pond- or marsh-plant. The aromatic 

 root is used as a stomachic and also in the preparation of confec- 

 tionery, in the distillation of gin and liqueurs, and in the brewing of 

 some kinds of beer. The flavor of the root depends mainly on a, 

 peculiar volatile oil. It is used also as antiseptic for mastication, 

 forms a good ingredient to tooth-powder, and is therapeutically 

 regarded as a stimulant of the nerves. 



Acrocomia Mexicana, Karwinski. 



Mexico, in the cooler regions up to 3,000 feet, with a mean- 

 temperature of 65 F. [Drude]. A prickly palm, reaching 20 feet 

 in height, accompanied by very splendid Chamaedora-Palms in the 

 shade of oak-forests. 



Acrocomia Totai, Martius. 



Argentina. Attains a height of 50 feet. The fruits are sweet 

 and wholesome. 



Actsea spicata, Linne. 



The " Baneberry." On wooded mountains, mainly on limestone- 

 soil in Europe, Northern Asia, and North- America. A perennial 

 medicinal herb. Its virtue depends on peculiar acrid and bitter as 

 well as other principles. In North- America the roots of this species 

 and of A. alba (Bigelow) are further praised as efficacious antidotes 

 against ophidian poisons. They have emetic properties and resemble 

 also in other medicinal respects the root of Helleborus. 



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