HORSETAIL — HOUNDSTONGUE — HOUSELEEK. 79 



HORSETAIL. Equisetum arvense. 



Synonym — Scouringrush, Shavegrass, Marestail, 

 Bottlebrush. 



Part used — Herb. 



Action — Diuretic, astringent. It has been found 

 beneficial in dropsy, gravel, and kidney affections. Also 

 used in gonorrhoea and gleet with advantage. In urinary 

 incontinence, the effect of cystic irritation, it is a very 

 serviceable remedy. The ashes of this plant are very 

 valuable in acidity of the stomach, dyspepsia, &c, taken 

 in doses of 3-10 grains. 



Preparation — Fluid extract : Dose, J-i drachm. 



HOUNDSTONQUE. Cynoglossum officinale. 



Synonym — Dogstongue. 



Part used — Herb. 



Action — Anodyne, demulcent, astringent. Has been 

 employed in coughs, colds, catarrhs, diarrhoea, and 

 dysentery. Is very soothing to the digestive organs and 

 relieves piles. Often used externally and internally at 

 the same time. 



HOUSELEEK. Sempervivum tectorum. 



Synonym — Common Houseleek, Sedum tectorum. 



Part used — Fresh leaves. 



Action — Refrigerant, astringent. The fresh leaves 

 are bruised and applied as a poultice in inflammatory 

 conditions of skin such as burns, stings, &c. It is 

 positively said to cure warts and corns. 



HYDRANGEA. Hydrangea arborescens. 



Synonym — Wild Hydrangea, Seven Barks. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Cathartic, diuretic, nephritic. A valuable 

 remedy for the removal of stone and gravel in bladder. 



