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FLORA ODOR AT A 



ozone, and thus increasing its oxyclising powers, whilst there 

 can be but one opinion as to the desirableness of furnishing 

 our conservatories with plenty of all kinds distinguished for 

 their perfumes, and for which their delicate odours hold them 

 in universal esteem. 



Some interesting investigations have lately been made in 

 relation to the effect of certain scented flowers upon the 

 nervous system. The experts vary somewhat, as might be 

 expected, but their conclusions as a whole appear to be based 

 on a sound foundation. 



According to the opinions of M. de Parville, a French 

 scientist, which are based on facts communicated by throat 

 specialists, the smell of Violets, Lilies of the Valley, Carna- 

 tions, and the Mimosa have an injurious effect on the voice. 

 People who throw these flowers at singers or actresses do, 

 accordingly, an injudicious thing. 



Another learned French specialist, M. Joal, has lately 

 issued in Paris a treatise bearing the title, Le Banger des 

 Fleurs. He writes most profoundly of the chemical decom- 

 position of the atmosphere caused by the odours given off 

 by flowers, and the consequent great increase of carbonic acid 

 gas ; of the partial asphyxia which results to human beings 

 breathing this vitiated air ; and of the poisoning of the 

 system caused by inhaling the emanations of the essential 

 oil contained in certain flowers. 



Personal susceptibility has much to do with the injurious 

 effects that may result from smelling certain flowers, and M. 

 Joal cannot therefore say what particular flowers should be 

 avoided by certain temperaments. 



The professors of the Paris Conservatoire are divided in 

 opinion. One is inclined to think that suggestion plays an 

 important part ; another admits the evil influence of flowers ; 



