18 PHARMACAL PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE. 



are used in the fresh or undried state, for example such as yield stear- 

 optens, oils, gums, etc. 



The mere suggestion must suffice, as it would be impossible, within the 

 scope of this report, to enter into a discussion or fuller explanation. It 

 is reasonable to suppose that a maximum profit accrues from an enter- 

 prise when the resources are developed in all possible directions. If it 

 is profitable, for example, to cultivate mustard, it would no doubt also 

 be profitable to manufacture and market mustard oil. 



8. Summarizing Suggestions. The foregoing shows, in a general 

 way, the desirability of growing medicinal plants. The subject is 

 treated suggestively, serving as an introduction, not as a citation, of 

 detailed facts which may be put into operation without further investi- 

 gation. The suggestions given, it is hoped, will lead to more rational 

 attempts at drug-plant culture. The proposed enterprise should be 

 most carefully considered from every viewpoint. Does it appear prac- 

 tical in its results ? If so, then enter into the work with the intention of 

 making it a success. Half-hearted attempts quite generally result in 

 total failure and serve, furthermore, to discourage others. The follow- 

 ing are the more important factors which must be carefully considered : 



1. Is there, an adequate market demand (wholesale and retail) for 

 the drug? Is the market demand quite constant or does it fluctuate 

 greatly ? 



2. Has it been demonstrated that the particular drug plant in which 

 you are interested will thrive in the locality in which you desire to 

 grow it? 



3. Are climate (temperature, air, moisture, fog, rainfall) and soil 

 suitable? 



4. Is the necessary labor (skilled and unskilled) available? 



5. Are the necessary machinery, tools, etc., available? 



6. On how large a scale must the enterprise be undertaken in order to 

 assure a reasonable profit under average conditions? 



7. How much capital is required to undertake the venture properly 

 and profitably ? 



8. Is there, or will there be, strong competition, and what influence 

 will this have upon launching the enterprise and upon the net results ? 



9. Are you familiar with the market, and do you know how to reach 

 the market? This is of great importance. 



10. Will it be necessary or desirable to use artificial heat in drying? 



11. Is it advisable, also, to become manufacturer? For example, do 

 you intend to grow mint for dealers and for manufacturers only, or do 

 you intend to grow the plants and to manufacture the oil also? 



12. Do you intend to supply the retail market or the wholesale market, 

 or both? 



