N. O. UAPPAR1DE;E. lOl 
Petals white or very pale pink, with pink claws, gynophore 
and stamens purplish. 
The internodes of the lloral axis (gynophore) between the 
whorl of petals, stamens and ovary are remarkably developed 
in this plant (Trimen). 
Parts used : — The seeds, leaves and root. 
Uses : — Sir W. Jones observes that its sensible qualities 
seem to promise great antispasmodic virtues, it having a smell 
much resembling assafcetida, but comparatively delicate. 
According to Dr. Wight (Illust. i., p. 34), the bruised leaves 
are rubefacient and vesicant, producing a very copious exuda- 
tion, affording in many cases the relief obtained from a blister 
without its inconveniences. The expressed juice is a popular 
remedy, in high repute as a local application in otalgia, both 
amongst the natives of India and the settlers in the West Indies, 
where the plant is also indigenous. Dr. J. Shortt states that 
the seeds are used as a substitute for mustard, and yield a good 
(fixed?) oil. (Ph. Ind.). 
The seeds are anthelmintic and rubefacient, and are employ- 
ed internally for the expulsion of round worms, and, externally as 
a counter-irritant. The juice of the leaves is used in otalgia. 
The leaves are applied externally to boils to prevent the form- 
ation of pus. A decoction of the root is said to be a mild 
febrifuge. 
The seeds yield to ether about 25 per cent, of a thick greenish, dryiug 
oil, having an acid value of fl’4 ; saponification value, 194 - 6, and iodine 
value, 119. 5. [D. Hooper, Ann. Rept. Indian Museum, Industrial section 
1908-9]. 
88. Mcerua arenaria , H. /. and T. h.F.b.I, 
i. 171. 
Vern. ; — Pumichakarei (Tam.) ; Puta-tiga (Tel.) ; Vika 
(Guzerati). 
Habitat : — Western Himalaya. Dryer parts of the N. W. 
Provinces. Southern and Central India ; Ceylon. 
A large woody climber, or straggling shrub, with divari- 
cate branches ; bark smooth, pale. Leaves 1-2 in. oval or 
