314 SPURGE-LAUREL. 



were produced in a case of inveterate hypochondriasis, in 

 which it was successfully administered*. Geoffroyf mentions 

 that the bark, leaves, and seed of this plant have been re- 

 commended by some as efficacious in evacuating dropsical se- 

 cretions ; for this purpose from six to ten grains of the bark 

 or leaves have been given, or three or four of the seeds to 

 be swallowed whole. The bark has also been substituted 

 for Mezereon, with the action of which it appears to have 

 a strong affinity, whether administered internally or applied 

 externally. It has been particularly spoken of as an effectual 

 remedy in rheumatism. We have, moreover, been personally 

 informed, that the leaves are not infrequently used by the 

 peasantry, in some parts of England, for the purpose of inducing 

 abortion. 



While some authors advise its exhibition in the form of 

 powder, others equally value it when its virulence has been 

 moderated by infusion in water, wine, vinegar, or some 

 ascescent liquid. As an internal medicine, however, we should 

 say that it ought not to be ventured on until its properties are 

 more fully explored. In the hands of a skilful and judicious 

 practitioner it might prove a valuable article of the materia 

 medica. 



* Waller's Brit. Dora. Herb. p. 331. f Mat. Med. torn. iii. p. 694- 



