POLY PODIUM VCLGARE. 
229 
Dioscorides did so before them, it is only thereby 
demonstrated to be an error so much the older. They 
recommended it as a cathartic; but Dr. Woodville cor¬ 
rectly observes, “ Another character in which it has been 
recommended, and for which, from its sensible qualities’ 
it seems to promise more advantage, is that of a demul¬ 
cent or pectoral; thus conjoined with liquorice its good 
effects have been experienced in coughs and asthmatic 
affections. However, it is now rarely used in this 
country, nor have the French authors, Poissoner and 
Malouin, who have cited instances of its success in 
mania, been able to restore to it its ancient reputation 
jn this calamitous disorder." 
The root, which is the part medically made use of, 
lias a peculiar bitterish-sweet taste when fresh. It has 
been analysed by M. Desfosses, who found in it a sweet 
substance resembling sarcocollin, mannite, incrystal - 
lisable sugar, starch, albumen, malic acid, lime, mag¬ 
nesia, and oxide of lime. M. Planche also found in it 
viscin, which is more popularly known as bird-lime. 
Mr. W. Reeve is a great admirer of this species. He 
says, “ The most distinct, the most generally known, and, 
perhaps, the most ornamental of all the Polypodiums is 
vulyare. It is a very handsome and useful Fern, and 
well adapted for cultivating upon the Femery or rockery, 
or for adorning any out-of-the-way place. It is so well 
known, and so easily managed, that little need be said 
of its culture. The more elevated parts of the rockwork 
will be most suitable for it, and the shady parts in pre¬ 
ference to the more exposed parts, although it will bear 
