PHARMACAL PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE. 
153 
823. Torreya californica Greene. California nutmeg. Coniferce. 
The seeds of this handsome tree resembles the nutmegs in form, size 
and markings. They are pungent and astringent, and have been used 
to adulterate true nutmeg. The green leaves have an odor resembling 
that of the tomato vine. The white fresh portion of the seeds has a 
bland taste, recalling that of the meat of the cocoanut. The roasted 
seeds are aromatic and taste something like peanuts. Eaten by Indians. 
(Contrib. U. S. Nat. Herb. 7 : 305.) (Journ. Am. Chem. Soe. 17 : 
935-941, 1895.) 
824. Torula (Saccharomyces) cerevisae Turpin. Yeast. 
This and related species and varieties constitute the omnipresent yeast 
organisms wdiich convert sugar into alcohol and carbolic acid gas and 
several minor side products. These minute organisms are active in all 
alcoholic fermentations and are employed in making beer, root beer, 
bread, etc. The yeast cake of the grocer consists of a pure culture of 
the organisms, dried and pressed. Yeast fomentations and poultices 
are much used in swellings, boils, skin diseases, etc. There is an 
extended literature on the uses of the yeast organisms in commerce, in 
arts, in the household and in manufacture. (Proc. A. Ph. A. 9 : 91, 
1860.) 
825. Trichostema lanatum Benth. Komero. Woolly blue-curls. 
Labiatce. 
Found in southern California. Used as a cosmetic and as an applica- 
tion to old sores and to inflamed tissues. The Spaniards of California 
look upon this plant as a panacea for many ills. 
• 826. Trichostema lanceolatum Gray. Vinegar weed. Tar weed. 
Labiatce. 
Occurs in western California. Very rank oclor; poisonous; much 
used as a fish poison. A leaf infusion is used as an application to cure 
headaches. Also used as a wash in typhoid fever. (Contrib. U. S. Nat. 
Herb. 7 : 385.) 
827. Trifolium species. Clovers. Leguminosce. 
There are many native and introduced species and varieties. The 
Indians use the flowers, seeds and leaves of several species as food. 
Medicinally these plants are reputed to have blood-purifying properties. 
The flower heads of red clover are used in the preparation of a quack 
cancer remedy. A more careful investigation of constituent, and 
physiological action would be desirable. (Proc. A. Ph. A. 29 : 222, 1881.) 
828. Trigonella fcenumgreecum L. Fenugreek. Leguminosce. 
A well-known medicinal plant which thrives well in the State of Cali- 
fornia. Never given internally; used in emollient applications, plas- 
ters, poultices, etc. Much used in veterinary practice. 
