PHARMACAL PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE. 157 



854. Wyethia species. Composite. 



The species of California have been, quite generally employed medici- 

 nally. The Indians use the seeds of several species. They require fur- 

 ler study. 



855. Wyethia helenioides Nutt. Composite. 



Used as a domestic remedy in the treatment of colds, coughs, asthma, 

 iroat diseases, influenza, etc. Found in some drug stores, and is said 



be prescribed by many California physicians, especially in the country 

 >wns. The roots are bitter and aromatic. 



856. Wyethia longicaulis Gray. Sunflower. Compositor. 



The Indians look upon this as a very valuable medicinal plant. A 

 lecoction is used as an eye wash, to relieve headache and as an emetic, 

 le dried and powdered roots are applied to ulcers and sores. Also 

 ?ed in rheumatic diseases (in the form of a poultice). 



857. Wyethia mollis Gray. Indian wheat. Composite. 

 Abundant in the Sierras, in open woods. The Modoc Indians powder 



le seeds and make it into a mush. The mashed roots are used as a 

 >oultice for swellings by the Klamath Indians. Seeds and roots form 

 in important food for the Indians. 



858. Xanthium species. Cockle burs. Composite. 



X. strumarium and X. spinosum are found within the State. They 

 ire noxious field and yard weeds. Used medicinally and in hair tonics. 

 (Proc. A. Ph. A. 25: 158-162, 1877.) 



859. Xanthoxylum fraxineum L. Prickly ash. Rutacece. 



A well-known medicinal tree, extensively cultivated as an ornamental 

 )lant. It has diaphoretic and anodyne properties, used in earache, 



>othache, and in rheumatic affections. Other species are cultivated 

 and have enjoyed various medicinal uses. X. piperitum is regarded by 



le Chinese and Japanese as a valuable poison antitode. 



860. Yucca species. Yucca. Liliacece. 



Yuccas are cultivated in great variety and abundance. The tender 

 flowering stems of some species are eaten. The Indians use the fiber for 

 textile fabrics. 



861. Yucca mohavensis Sarg. Amole. Wild date. Soap weed. 

 Spanish bayonet. Liliacece. 



Common in southern California. The stiff, dagger-like leaves are 

 rich in fiber. The roots are used as a substitute for soap ; said to be 

 excellent for cleansing woolen goods and hair, to which it imparts a 

 peculiar gloss. The fruit is said to resemble the banana, and is highly 

 relished by the Indians. (U. S. Geog. Surv. Wheeler's Rep. 6: 608.) 



