(4 ) 
Medical trial has completely substantiated the results of the chemical enquiry (see- 
Addendum). It is proved that this plant, which is abundant in India, is a most efficient 
substitute for the American podophyllum at present employed and the plant, and 
medicinal preparations made from it, have now been included in the “Indian and 
Colonial Addendum to the British Pharmacopoeia.” 
Incidentally, it was discovered that the Indian plant also contains a yellow dye 
which might be profitably employed in dyeing; being, in fact, identical with the colouring 
matter of the well-known dye-stuff, ^^uercitron bark. 
Jute. 
An extensive series of samples of Jute, collected at different stages of growth and 
treated under various conditions, are being investigated with the view of seeming 
greater uniformity in the quality of Indian jute fibre. 
Edible Gums. 
A chemical examination has been made of several Indian gums which seemed likely to 
be of commercial value as substitutes for gum arabic. The results, together with samples 
of the gums, were submitted to brokers in this country who reported on their commercial 
value and there have been already commercial enquiries for these gums by manufacturers. 
Iron Ores. 
Chemical analysis has been made of a number of specimens of Indian iron ores, 
chiefly magnetite, obtained from the Salem district of Madras. The results have given rise 
to an important discussion as to the possibility of the ores being profitably smelted in India. 
Coal. 
A chemical and technical examination has been made of representative samples -of 
coal obtained from the principal coal districts of India, including many in which the 
seams at present are not actively worked. A full description of the composition and 
characters of the different varieties of Indian coal has been drawn up by Professor 
Dunstan and issued as a separate paper by the India Office. It is also included in the 
“Parliamentary Return of the Imperial Institute, Indian Section, August, i8gg. 
Food-grains. 
All the more important Indian food-grains are being submitted to a complete 
chemical examination, chiefly 'by Professor Church, F.R.S., who has already made a 
number of reports on the subject dealing with their composition and nutritive value. 
Fibres. 
A large number of Indian fibres have been chemically examined, and afterwards 
examined by fibre experts. The results have been communicated to the Indian 
Government so that suitable action might be taken in those cases in which it seems 
desirable. Among these fibres are Ptne-apple^ Sabat., Tacca. Madm\ ban Re/ia, the 
fibre of Phoenix palndosa, and the floss of Calotropis procej^a. 
Timbers, 
The mechanical properties of Pyinma wood have been carefully tested by Professor 
Unwin, F.R.S , with a view to its application in engineering and building construction 
Tanning Materials, 
Systematic chemical examination is being conducted of the principal plants now 
used, as well as those which seem likely to be applicable, in tanning. Those which 
prove to be rich in tannin are afterwards submitted for trial in the tan-yards. In this 
way a large number of astringent plants are being investigated and reports on the 
tanning value of the following classes have already been made:— Myrobq.lans, Mangroves 
and the Ccesalpinias. 
