N. 0. CAPPARIDEiE. 101 



Petals white or very pale pink, with pink claws, gynophore 

 and stamens purplish. 



The inter nodes of the floral axis (gynophore) between the 

 whorl of petals, stamens and ovary are remarkably developed 

 in this plant (Trimen). 



Parts used : — The seeds, leaves and root. 



Uses : —Sir W. Jones observes that its sensible qualities 

 seem to promise great antispasmodic virtues, it having a smell 

 much resembling assafoetida, but comparatively delicate. 

 According to Dr. Wight (Illust. L, p. 34), the bruised leaves 

 are rubefacient and vesicant, producing a very copious exuda- 

 tion, affording in many cases the relief obtained from a blister 

 without its inconveniences. The expressed juice is a popular 

 remedy, in high repute as a local application in otalgia, both 

 amongst the natives of India and the settlers in the West Indies, 

 where the plant is also indigenous. Dr. J. Shortt states that 

 the seeds are used as a substitute for mustard, and yield a good 

 (fixed?) oil. (Ph.Ind.). 



The seeds are anthelmintic and rubefacient,and are employ- 

 ed internally for the expulsion of round worms, and, externally as 

 a counter-irritant. The juice of the leaves is used in otalgia. 

 The leaves are applied externally to boils to prevent the form- 

 ation of pus. A decoction of the root is said to be a mild 

 febrifuge. 



The seeds yield to ether about 25 per cent, of a thick greenish, drying 

 oil, having an acid value of 6'4 ; saponification value, 194"6, and iodine 

 value, 119. 5. [D. Hooper, Ann. Rept. Indian Museum, Industrial section 

 1908-9]. 



88. Mcerua arenavia^ H. /. and T. h.f.b.i. 

 i. 171. 



Vern. : — Pumichakarei (Tarn.) ; Puta-tiga (Tel.) ; Vika 

 (Guzerati). 



Habitat: — Western Himalaya. Dryer parts of the N. W. 

 Provinces. Southern and Central India ; Ceylon. 



A large woody climber, or straggling shrub, with divari- 

 cate branches ; bark smooth, pale. Leaves 1-2 in. oval or 



