872 
INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS. 
beneath (Trimen). 3-5in. diarn., often broader than long, 
glabrous above, and, sometimes at length beneath (C. B. Clarke). 
Petioles l-2in., densely silky peduncles, mostly 3-fid, lin. or less. 
“ pedicels articulated to a stiff stout peduncle l-3in long ” 
(Trimen). Bracts oblong acute, fleshy, caducous. Buds pointed 
silky at tip, sepals £-£in., ovate subacute, fleshy, silky pubescent 
outside. Corolla-tube ll-2in., narrow limb, white silky, without, 
2£-3£in. diam., lobes shallow marginate. Ovary glabrous, 
stigmas blunt. Fruit nearly globose, under lin., apiculate, 
smooth, shining, pale brown. 
Flowers deliciously sweet-scented, first white, becoming pale 
cream-coloured. A beautiful plant, flowering at night (Trimen). 
Uses : — In Hindoo medicine, the root is regarded as altera- 
tive, tonic and useful in rheumatic affections and diseases of 
the nervous system (Dutt). 
The leaves are maturative and absorptive, and are used as 
emollient poultices for wounds, and externally in skin diseases. 
In synovitis, the powdered root is given with milk. Mixed with 
vinegar, the sap is rubbed ovpr the body to reduce obesity 
(Watt). 
The natives use the leaves as a local stimulant and rubefa- 
cient. According to Dr. Wight, they act as a powerful vesicant 
(Ph. Ind.). “ With regard to the alleged blistering properties 
of the upper surface of the leaf there must be some mistake, 
as we find it has no effect when applied to the skin.” (Pharma* 
cographia Indica, Vol. II. p. 541). 
The roots yielded acid resins of an amber colour, soluble in ether and 
benzole, and partly soluble in alkalies. The acid ether extract was partly 
soluble in water with strong acid reaction, and gave with ferric salts a 
grass-green coloration ; with alkalies a bright yellow. The portion in- 
soluble in water was soluble in alkalies with orange coloration, and 
afforded with acids a yellowish white precigitate. The original aqueous 
solution after addiion of an alkali and agitation with ether, failed to aflord 
any alkaloidal reactions when the ethereal extract was tested. This extract 
did not amount to more than a trace. The original aqueous solution contained 
a tannin-like principle. (Pharmacograpbia Indica, II. 642). 
833 . I'pomoea bona-nox, Linn, h.f.b.i., iv. 
197 . 
Suns. : — Pathemapu-todami. 
