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tlcilcriana Sllluatica. Natural Okder: \'a/criaiiacccc — Valerian Family. 



fl'ST win this plant has been called Valerian — whether in honor 

 of the Roman emperor of that name, or ot' some unknown 

 Valerius., or (which is perhaps the most probable view) from the 

 Latin lalcrc, to be well, — seems to be uncertain. It is to be 

 ' lound in nearh- all temperate climates. In the United States 

 there are se^•eral indigenous varieties, found mostly in lowlands 

 near wooded districts, or in swamps. The leaxes of some are 

 composed of several small leaflets arranged opposite each other 

 along a central stem which is terminated b}- one a little superior 

 in size, in others the foliage is entire. The flowers of the wild 

 species are mostly purple, white or rose. The root ot the Vale- 

 riana edulis is said to be cooked and eaten by the Indians. It is 

 from the Valeriana officinalis that the extract used in medicine is 

 obtained. It is useful chiefly in nervous affections, though possessing tonic, febri- 

 tugal and anti-spasmodic properties. 



^tng lisposiiian. 



II 



— Caroline Spcncc, 

 r^AN 1 yield you blessings.' says the friendly heart; 



Fear not I am poorer, though I much impart. 

 Wherefore should you thank me.' giving is my need; 

 Love that wrought none comfort, sorrow were indeed. 



—Litrv Lorcom. 



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