96 Botanic Drugs 



suppositories. They are used after surgical opera- 

 tions to overcome the atony and partial paralysis 

 sometimes following abdominal surgical interven- 

 tion. 



Dose: 1 to 10 grains; average, 4 grains. 



ASCLEPIAS 



PLEURISY ROOT, Asclepias tuberosa. Not official 

 now. (U. S. P. 1890.) It is listed in the National 

 Formulary. Complex in composition, but con- 

 taining no very active proximate. The more uni- 

 form action of the drug is inducing diaphoresis. 

 Its expectorant properties are not well marked, 

 though of sufficient intensity to make the drug 

 of value for administration to children. Though a 

 minor agent, the fact that it is carminative and 

 does not disturb digestion makes it fill a really useful 

 place. Asclepias has no direct influence upon 

 pleurisy. 



THERAPEUTICS. Dryness of the respiratory mu- 

 cous membranes, especially when associated with a 

 dry skin and slight fever, is a condition met in many 

 respiratory troubles. Asclepias may be depended 

 upon to aid more direct medication, its diaphoretic 

 action making of it a valuable cooperating agent. 

 It does not have any direct influence upon febrile 

 processes; but a combination of aconite and as- 

 clepias is often much more effective than is aconite 

 alone. Its indications are such that it finds a place 

 in certain cases through the whole range of respira- 

 tory affections. 



ADMINISTRATION. Don't depend upon asclepias 

 alone to be anything but a good diaphoretic. Adults 

 should take 1 -drachm doses fl. in hot water until 



