Nat. order. CORONARIiE. 
121 
that State, for the purpose of gathering specimens of medical 
plants, and am fully convinced that many valuable hints may be 
gathered, that will be of inconceivable advantage to the botanist, 
and in the conducting of a medical v\^ork. Plants of which we 
have but a limited history, and many which have not been de- 
scribed at all, and which are of great importance in medicine, 
are found promiscuously scattered over every section. 
Medical Properties and Uses. The root, which is the medici- 
nal part of this plant, is generally, by writers on the Materia Med- 
ica, referred to the Convallaria multiflora, of Linnaeus, or the 
Polygonatum latifolium vulgare, of C. Bauhin. It is of a mucil- 
aginous quality, and has long been employed as a discutient 
poultice to various kinds of tumors, but more particularly to 
bruises, accompanied with extravasation of blood in the cellular 
membrane. It is also recommended as a cosmetic ; and in Galen's 
time was used by women, to prevent and remove pimples and 
freckles of the skin. The berries, flowers and leaves are ex- 
tremely acrid, and are said by some to be of a poisonous quality. 
Modern practitioners describe the roots as being a mild, and yet 
very healing restorative, and useful in all cases of female weak- 
ness. It is also recommended for consumption and general de- 
bility. It may be used in tea, sirup or cordial. The mucilage of 
the roots is recommended to be applied to inflammations and 
piles. 
