4 MEDICINAL PLANTS 



producing bloody urine and convulsions. An ointment of it speedi- 

 ly cures Tinea capitis. In the recent state most of the species are 

 acrid and rubefacient. They contain a peculiar crystallizable prin- 

 ciple, called anemonin, which is converted into anemonic acid, by the 

 action of alkalies. The A. Virginiana, Linn., (Thimble weed), is 

 supposed to possess the power of curing the bite of the Rattlesnake. A 

 decoction of the root of the Nemorosa, would probably prove useful in 

 chronic rheumatism. 



Hepatica Triloba, Chaix., (Liverwort or Liverleaf) A mild, 

 demulcent, tonic and astringent ; slightly diuretic and deobstruent, scent- 

 less and almost insipid. A decoction of it may be drank ad libitum. 

 Its medical properties are very slight. 



Ranunculus, Linn., (Crowfoot Butter-cup.) Of this we have 

 fourteen species, nearly all of which are more or less acrid and caustic, 

 when fresh, but nearly inert when dried. 



The Flammula, Linn., (Spearwort,) which grows in low wet grounds 

 and ditches, is one the most acrid of the genus, and is sometimes em- 

 ployed as a vesicant, and the distilled water as an emetic. Most of the 

 species, when applied to the skin, in a fresh state, act as vesicatories ; 

 they are apt, however, to cause ulcerations difficult to heal ; useful as 

 counter-irritants in rheumatism, neuralgia, etc., or whenever we wish to 

 make a powerful impression on the surface. The acrid principle is 

 volatile, dissipated by heat or drying, and may be separated by distilla- 

 tion. When chewed, the plant excites violent inflammation in the 

 mouth and fauces, and if swallowed, a burning sensation in the stomach, 

 and inflammation. None of the species should be used internally. The 

 bulbosus and acris are among the most acrid. Decoction inert. 



Caltha Palustri •;. Linn., (Marsh Marigold), used as a pot-herb. 

 A syrup prepared from it is a popular remedy for coughs. Slight medi- 

 cinal properties- 



Trollius Laxus, Salisb., (Globe Flower,) has the same properties 

 as the Ranunculus. 



Coptis trifolia, Salisb., (Common Gold Thread). A well-known 

 herbaceous plant, with perennial roots, of a bright yellow color, growing 

 in swamps and boggy woods. A pure and powerful bitter without any 

 astringency ; more palatable than any of the pure bitters, imparting its 

 virtues to water and alcohol ; useful in all cases where a pure tonic is 

 indicated, also as a local application in aphthous and other ulcerations of 

 the mouth. A very useful stomachic in atonic dyspepsia and loss of ap- 

 petite, in form of infusion or tincture. Its virtues depend on a bitter 

 extractive matter, which is precipitated by nitrate of silver and acetate 

 of lead. Contains neither resin, gum, nor tannin. Dose of substance, 

 10 to 30 grs. ; of the tincture 3j., prepared with §j. of root to O.j. 

 diluted alcohol. Might be substituted in many cases for exotic bitters. 



