PHARMACAL PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE. 
157 
854. Wyethia species. Composite e. 
The species of California have been quite generally employed medici- 
nally. The Indians use the seeds of several species. They require fur- 
ther study. 
855. Wyethia helenioides Nutt. Compositce. 
Used as a domestic remedy in the treatment of colds, coughs, asthma, 
throat diseases, influenza, etc. Found in some drug stores, and is said 
to be prescribed by many California physicians, especially in the country 
towns. The roots are bitter and aromatic. 
856. Wyethia longicaulis Gray. Sunflower. Compositce. 
The Indians look upon this as a very valuable medicinal plant. A 
decoction is used as an eye wash, to relieve headache and as an emetic. 
The dried and powdered roots are applied to ulcers and sores. Also 
used in rheumatic diseases (in the form of a poultice). 
857. Wyethia mollis Gray. Indian wheat. Compositce. 
Abundant in the Sierras, in open woods. The Modoc Indians powder 
the seeds and make it into a mush. The mashed roots are used as a 
poultice for swellings by the Klamath Indians. Seeds and roots form 
an important food for the Indians. 
858. Xanthium species. Cockle burs. Compositce. 
X. strumarium and X. spinosum are found within the State. They 
are noxious field and yard weeds. Used medicinally and in hair tonics. 
(Rroc. A. Ph. A. 25: 158-162, 1877.) 
859. Xanthoxylum fraxineum L. Prickly ash. Eutacece. 
A well-known medicinal tree, extensively cultivated as an ornamental 
plant. It has diaphoretic and anodyne properties, used in earache, 
toothache, and in rheumatic affections. Other species are cultivated 
and have enjoyed various medicinal uses. X. piperitum is regarded by 
the Chinese and Japanese as a valuable poison antitode. 
860. Yucca species. Yucca. Liliacece. 
Yuccas are cultivated in great variety and abundance. The tender 
flowering stems of some species are eaten. The Indians use the fiber for 
textile fabrics. 
861. Yucca mohavensis Sarg. Amole. Wild date. Soap weed. 
Spanish bayonet. Liliacece. 
Common in southern California. The stiff, dagger-like leaves are 
rich in fiber. The roots are used as a substitute for soap ; said to be 
excellent for cleansing woolen goods and hair, to which it imparts a 
peculiar gloss. The fruit is said to resemble the banana, and is highly 
relished by the Indians. (U. S. Geog. Surv. Wheeler’s Rep. 6 : 608.) 
