124 PHARMACAL PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE. 



566. Myrica californica Cham. California wax berry. Myricacece. 

 Properties similar to M. cerifera L., which is well-known medicinally 



(U. S. D.) The Japanese species (M. rubra) is extensively cultivated 

 in the State. They require further study. 



567. Myrtus communus L. Myrtle. Myrtacece. 



This European tree is extensively cultivated. The leaves contain 

 myrtol, an active antiseptic ; said to act as a nerve sedative and stimu- 

 lant to mucus membranes. Used in bronchitis, cystitis and pyelitis. 



568. Narcissus, pseudo-narcissus L. Daffodil. Amaryllidacece. 



Common garden plant. The bulb and flowers have been used medic- 

 inally. Used as an anti-spasmodic, sialagogue, diaphoretic, and in 

 large doses as an emetic. Wild growing plants more active than the 

 cultivated. 



569. Nardia. Nard. Spikenard. Araliacece. 



Garden plants. Properties like those of valerian. Not now used 

 medicinally. Botanical origin uncertain. By some relegated to vale- 

 riana. 



570. Nasturtium officinale R. Br. Water cress. Cruciferce. 

 Growing wild and cultivated for table use. Said to be useful in 



scorbutic affections and in constipation. Other species are similarly 

 used. 



571. Nepenthes and Sarrancenia species. Pitcher plants. Sarra- 

 ceniacece. 



The pitcher contains a very active proteolytic enzyme. The roots of 

 same species are used as a diuretic, laxative and tonic. (Pharm. Journ. 

 Trans, p. 483, 1899.) 



572. Nepeta species. Catnip. LaUatce. 



Several species are introduced. N. cataria is common. Anti-spas- 

 modic and emmenagogue ; tonic, excitant. Contain tannin and volatile 

 oil. 



573. Nerium odorum L. Oleander. Apocynacece. 



Cultivated ornamental shrub. Used since time immemorial to de- 

 stroy rats. Cases of poisoning by it have been reported. Two alkaloids 

 have been isolated. Used as a heart tonic in valvular lesion. It also 

 has diuretic and cathartic properties. (U. S. D.) 



574. Nicotiana species. Tobacco. Solanacece. 



The native species have been used by Indians as a stimulant, smoked 

 and chewed. Some tribes have even cultivated the more desirable spe- 

 cies. 



