MALE-FERN — MANACA — MANDRAKE. 99 



MALE -FERN. Dryopteris Flllx-mas. 



Synonym — Aspidium Filix-mas, Male Shield Fern. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Taenifuge, vermifuge, anthelmintic. Mostly 

 used for expulsion of tapeworm. The powder may be 

 taken or the fluid extract, but the ethereal extract or 

 oleoresin if given in pill form is the more pleasant way 

 of taking it. The last dose should be followed by a 

 purgative of castor oil. 



Preparations — Powdered root : Dose, 1-4 drachms. 

 Fluid extract: Dose, 1-4 drachms. Oleoresin: Dose, 

 5-20 drops. 



MANACA. Brunfelsia Hopeana. 



Synonym — Franciscea uniflora. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Alterative, diuretic, antirheumatic. Used 

 as a rheumatic remedy in South America. Is con- 

 sidered a most valuable alterative in scrofula, syphilis, 

 and rheumatic arthritis. A decoction of 1 ounce in a 

 pint of water is taken in tablespoonful to wineglass- 

 ful doses. 



Preparation — Fluid extract : Dose, 10-60 drops. 



MANDRAKE. Podophyllum peltatum. 



Synonym — May Apple, Racoon Berry, Wild Lemon. 



Part used — Root, resin. 



Action — Antibilious, cathartic, hydragogue, purgative. 

 Mandrake is a powerful medicine, exercising an influence 

 on every part of the system, stimulating the glands to 

 a healthy action. Its most beneficial action is obtained 

 by the use of small doses frequently given, as large ones 

 cause violent evacuations and debility. In all chronic 

 venereal, scrofulous, and dyspeptic complaints it is 



