S72 INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS. 



beneath (Trimen). 3-5in. diain., often broader than long, 

 glabrous above, and, sometimes at length beneath (C. B. Clarke). 

 Petioles l-2in., densely silky peduncles, mostly 3-fid, Jin. or less. 

 " pedicels articulated to a stiff stout peduncle l-3in long " 

 (Trimen). Bracts oblong acute, fleshy, caducous. Buds pointed 

 silky at tip, sepals i-Jin., ovate subacute, fleshy, silky pubescent 

 outside. Corolla-tube li-2in., narrow limb, white silky, without, 

 2J-3Jin. diam., lobes shallow marginate. Ovary glabrous, 

 stigmas blunt. Fruit nearly globose, under lin., apiculate, 

 smooth, shining, pale brown. 



Flowers deliciously sweet-scented, first white, becoming pale 

 cream-coloured. A beautiful plant, flowering at night (Trimen). 



Uses : — In Hindoo medicine, the root is regarded as altera- 

 tive, tonic and useful in rheumatic affections and diseases of 

 the nervous system (Dutt). 



The leaves are maturative and absorptive, and are used as 

 emollient poultices for wounds, and externally in skin diseases. 

 In synovitis, the powdered root is given with milk. Mixed with 

 vinegar, the sap is rubbed over the body to reduce obesity 

 (Watt). 



The natives use the leaves as a local stimulant and rubefa- 

 cient. According to Dr. Wight, they act as a powerful vesicant 

 (Ph. Ind.). " With regard to the alleged blistering properties 

 of the upper surface of the leaf there must be some mistake, 

 as we find it has no effect when applied to the skin." (Pharma- 



cographia Indica, Vol. II. p. 541). 



The roots yielded acid resins of an amber colour, soluble in ether and 

 benzole, and partly soluble in alkalies. The acid ether extract was partly 

 soluble in water with strong acid reaction, and gave with ferric salts a 

 grass-green coloration ; with alkalies a bright yellow. The portion in- 

 soluble in water was soluble in alkalies with orange coloration, and 

 afforded with acids a yellowish white precipitate. The original aqueous 

 solution after addiion of an alkali and agitation with ether, failed to aflord 

 any alkaloidal reactions when the ethereal extract was tested. This extract 

 did not amount to more than a trace. The original agueous solution contained 

 a tannin-like principle. (Pharmacographia Indica, II. 542). 



833, Ipomoea bona~nox, Linn, h.f.b.i., iv. 



197. 



Sans. : — Pathemapu-todami. 



