34 
NAT. ORDER. ROTACE^E 
all possessing similar properties ; fourteen are described with five 
styles ; forty -six with three ; two with two styles ; and two with 
one. When the term Monogynum was first applied to this species, 
it was a proper one, there being then only one in that predica- 
ment. Another having since been discovered, it ceases to be so 
now. Some have, indeed, doubted the propriety of using the 
word Monogynum at all, alleging, in reality, there are five styles, 
which manifestly show themselves above, though they coalesce 
below. Such is the opinion of some, but others think differently. 
This elegant native of China is now quite common in the 
green-houses, both in this country and England. Mr. Miller has 
given us a minute description of this plant, and observes that it is 
more valuable, as it continues in flower a great part of the year. 
He observes, further, that if planted in a very warm situation, it 
will live in the open air ; but that those plants which stand abroad 
will not flower in winter, as well as those which are removed into 
shelter in Autumn. It may be propagated by slips from the root, 
or by layers. 
Medical Properties and Uses. This plant has a bitterish, sub- 
astringent taste, and a sweetish smell. It was in great repute 
with the ancients, who prescribed it in hysteria, hypochondriasis, 
and mania. They also imagined that is had the peculiar power of 
curing demoniacs ; and thence obtained the name of Fuga dcemo- 
num. It was also recommended internally for wounds, bruises, ul- 
cers, haemoptysis, mictus, cruentus, gravel, dysentery, agues, worms, 
and outwardly as an anodyne, and as a discutient and detergent. 
However, it is now very rarely used, and its name is omitted in 
the Materia Medica. In the London Pharmacopeia, the flowers 
only are directed to be used, as containing the greatest propor- 
tion of the resinous, oily matter in which the medical efficacy of 
the plant is supposed to reside. 
