FLOWERING PLANTS AND FERNS OF INDIANA. 581 



and severe inflammation. It is possible that in many cases where the 

 poisoning is first indicated by itching the inflammation following may 

 merely be the result of scratching. 



The May-weed or Dog Fennel (Anthemis Cotula) has a juice suffi- 

 ciently acrid to poison a sensitive skin. Its unpleasant odor, however, 

 is sufficient to prevent its general handling, and only occasional cases 

 of poisoning by this plant have been reported in the State. 



Golden-Eods (Solidago). — All of the many species of this large and 

 attractive genus are to be regarded with suspicion by those with sensi- 

 tive skins. The Sweet Golden-rod (Solidago odora) has a volatile oil 

 that acts as a decided irritant, and some light cases of poisoning seem 

 directly traceable to other forms of the genus. 



The Fleabane (Leptilon Canadense) also contains a volatile oil pos- 

 sessing irritating qualities, and often causes severe inflammation, espe- 

 cially if handled when green. 



The fresh bark of the Leatherwood (Dirca palustris) applied to the 

 skin causes blisters and sores, which are very difficult to heal. If 

 taken internally, severe vomiting is produced. 



The common Yirghrs Bower (Clematis Virginiana) is an acrid 

 irritant, often producing blisters. Indeed, all species of the genus 

 Clematis should be carefully handled, since their acrid juice is almost 

 certain to produce irritation if it comes in contact with mucous 

 membranes. 



Of the Buttercups (Ranunculus) at least three, the "tall buttercup'' 

 (R. acris), the "bulbous buttercup" (R. oulbosus) and the "cursed 

 buttercup" (R. sceleratus) are to be avoided. Their juices cause in- 

 flammation and ulceration, often very persistent and difficult of cure. 

 The entire plant, in each case, appears to be poisonous, although the 

 root is especially rich in the toxic substance. 



The members of the mustard family (Cruciferas) are all well known 

 irritants, and, as might be expected, frequently produce smarting and 

 blistering of sensitive skins. 



Various forms of the potato family (Solanacece) are to be regarded 

 with suspicion. The "Jimson" weeds or Thorn Apples (Datura Stra- 

 monium and D. Tatula) have a bad reputation, and are charged with 

 especially affecting the mucous membranes. The purple leaved night- 

 shade is claimed by some to be an even more virulent skin poison than 

 poison ivy. The symptoms are said to be similar to those occurring 

 in poisoning from the ivy, but the poison is much more difficult to 

 completely eradicate from the system. Several experiments have failed 



