I36 SARSAPARILLA. 



SARSAPARILLA, AMERICAN. Aralia nudlcaulis. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Alterative, pectoral, diaphoretic, sudorific. 

 Though quite distinct from Jamaica Sarsaparilla it will 

 be found a very efficient substitute and by many is 

 regarded as superior in alterative properties. It may be 

 used in all cases of syphilis, skin diseases and rheumatism, 

 and is best given in the form of a decoction, made from 

 1 ounce of root boiled in 1 pint of water for £ hour, in 

 wineglassful doses frequently. For coughs, colds, &c, 

 it should be used as a syrup. 



Preparation — Fluid extract : Dose, 1 drachm. 



SARSAPARILLA, INDIAN. Hemldesmus Indlcus. 



Synonym — Hemidesmus, Country Sarsaparilla. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Diuretic, alterative. Used in constitutional 

 debility, chronic rheumatism, and syphilitic skin 

 diseases and ulcerations. Much thought of by the 

 Indian natives who ascribe to it several medicinal virtues 

 besides those mentioned. 



SARSAPARILLA, JAMAICA. Smilax officinalis. 



Synonym — Smilax ornata. 



Part used — Root. 



Action — Alterative. This is the root introduced by 

 the Spaniards in 1563 as a sure cure for syphilis. It has 

 been thoroughly tested since then, and experience has 

 demonstrated the fact that it is not an absolute specific. 

 However, it contains active alterative principles, which 

 cause it still to be held in high opinion as a general 

 purifier of the blood. It is chiefly given in conjunction 

 with other remedies, such as Sassafras, Burdock, &c. It 

 forms the chief ingredient in the Concentrated Com- 

 pound Solution of Sarsaparilla of the B.P. 



Preparations — Powdered root : Dose, $-1 drachm. 

 Fluid extract : Dose, \-i drachm. Solid extract : Dose, 

 10-20 grains. Compound solution : Dose, 2-8 drachms. 



