230 POLYPODY. 



cium or that which grows on the oak, was reckoned more es- 

 pecially efficacious, although it differs in no respect from the other 

 kinds. Poissonier and Malouin* state, that they found a 

 decoction of the root useful in mania, but other medicines were 

 exhibited at the same time, so that it is doubtful to which the 

 efficacy belongs. Dodonaeus -j* recommended it in wandering 

 gout. Some writers consider it useful in rachitis, and others 

 recommend it as vermifuge like the Male Fern. 



The reputed value of Polypody in most of the above men- 

 tioned diseases is probably to be attributed solely to its purga- 

 tive properties, which it possesses only in its recent state, and 

 in large doses. It appears more entitled to the character of a 

 resolvent and demulcent as observed by Murray J. With this 

 view it deserves trial in asthmas, coughs, &c. 



The fresh root is given in substance in the dose of a drachm 

 to two drachms, or pulverised and mixed with honey, in the 

 form of an electuary. The aqueous infusion made with two 

 ounces of the root to three pints of water, may be given in the 

 quantity of a cupful several times a day. Liquorice may be 

 added to this infusion when intended for coughs, &c, and 

 gentle boiling will increase its strength, but this must be per- 

 formed with care, as much coction renders it nauseously 

 bitter. The aqueous extract promises to be an advantageous 

 form of exhibiting Polypody. 



* Mem. de TAcad. des Sciences de Paris, 1751, p. 160. 



f Pempt. p. 465. 



+ App. Med. vol. v. p. 452. 



