PAPAW. 2O5 



acts similar to Chamomile, and has been recommended 

 in nightsweats. The decoction of usual strength is 

 taken in wineglassful to teacupful doses three to four 

 times a day. Externally it is serviceable as an injec- 

 tion in leucorrhcea, and as a lotion for ulcers, wounds, &c. 

 Large doses produce emesis. 



Distinctive character The leafstem is angular, 

 1-2 feet long, bearing stalked, serrate, spatulate leaves 

 in the lower half, with a serrate clasping base, and 

 serrate upper leaves, which are oblong and sessile. The 

 yellow-centred white flowerheads have an involucre of 

 green bracts with thin, black, membranous edges. The 

 receptacle is hemispherical and without paleae. The 

 fruit has no pappus. Taste, bitter and tingling. Odour, 

 faintly valerianic. 



PAPAW. Carica Papaya, Linn. 



N.O. Papayoctce. 



Syn. Pawpaw, Melon Tree, Mamaeiro, Papaya 

 vulgaris, DC. 



Parts used Fruit juice and ferment " Papain." 



Action Digestive. " Papain," a white powder, is 

 administered generally in all digestive disorders where 

 albuminoid substances pass away undigested. It is 

 generally used in combination with an alkali, such as 

 bicarbonate of soda, and acts best in an alkaline medium. 

 A solution of the ferment is reputed to dissolve the false 

 membranes in diphtheria and croup, when applied 

 frequently. 



Preparation "Papain": Dose, 1-5 grains. 



Distinctive character " Papain" is a white powder 

 soluble in glycerine, and is prepared from the juice of 

 the Papaw tree. Another preparation of a brownish 

 white tint and granular in character consists of the 

 dried juice of the fruit. 



