INDIAN PHYSIC. 143 



and may be recognised by the presence of hemp seeds, 

 of which there are usually some present in a more or 

 less immature state. The leaves are long-stalked, bear- 

 ing usually five to seven lanceolate-acuminate leaflets, 

 sharply serrate at the margin, arranged in a radiate 

 manner ; they are brittle, and usually more or less 

 adherent, due to the exudation of resin. Taste, very 

 slight. Odour, somewhat smoky, but characteristic. 



INDIAN PHYSIC. Qlllenia trifollata, Moench. 



G. stipulacea, Pursh. 



N.O. Rosacecc. 



Syn. Spiraea trifoliata, Linn.; and S. stipulata, Muhl., 

 Indian Hippo, Gillenia. 



Part used Rootbark. 



Action Expectorant, cathartic, emetic. The Ameri- 

 can Indians use the above-mentioned plants in the 

 same way as Ipecacuanha. They recommend it in 

 dyspepsia, dropsy, habitual constipation, coughs, colds, 

 &c. Being a safe and efficient emetic, it can be used 

 with advantage where such may be indicated. A dose 

 of the powder of 2 grains acts as a stomachic ; 5-6 grains 

 produce diaphoresis, and 20-30 grains produce emesis 

 and catharsis. The smaller doses may be repeated 

 every three to four hours. 



Distinctive character The roots of both species 

 are collected and sold under the name of Indian Physic. 

 The roots are cylindrical, sometimes undulated, usually 

 fissured transversely, and 6 inches or more long, varying 

 from ^-^ inch in diameter. They have a blackish hue 

 externally, and the transverse section shows a thick 

 reddish bark, with a short fracture, separating easily 

 from the white woody centre. The bark is pleasantly 

 bitter, the wood tasteless. Odour, none. 



