SARSAPARILLA FROM TAMPICO. 
207 
in it. If this be of any utility in the properties of the medi- 
cine, the sarsaparilla of TampicOj under this point of view, 
will merit some preference; at the same time, however, the 
active part designated under the names of smilacine ov parig- 
line or salseparine, is not predominant. 
This sarsaparilla presents all the characters assigned to the 
best species, with the exception of its lighter colour; there 
is reason to believe that it is a white variety of smilax offici- 
nalis, described by M. Kunth, in the Nova genera et species 
Plantarum of MM. Humboldt and Bonpland. We base 
this opinion, in the first place, upon the great resemblance, 
(colour excepted) between it and the true sarsaparilla derived 
from the same localities and found growing upon the borders 
of the Magdalena, in New Mexico, whence it is sent to Eu- 
rope. Secondly, there are frequent examples of white varieties 
in many species of vegetables. These varieties depend upon 
colder or warmer localities, or degeneration by culture. 
What appears to give still more weight to this opinion, is the 
fact that the white varieties of vegetables are more abundantly 
supplied with mucilaginous elements, or possess active prin- 
ciples less elaborated. Now these characters will be recognised 
upon comparing the sarsaparilla of Tampico with the other 
kinds. 
Circumstances may, nevertheless, present themselves, which 
will occasion a preference in favour of this sarsaparilla over 
others possessing more bitterness, and greater activity. The 
methods of treatment in which this kind of medicine is em- 
ployed, should accord with the temperament, or intensity of 
the affection, for it is an error to suppose that recourse should 
be made to the most active principles. 
Hence it is, that it will not be useless to try the comparative 
effects of many kinds of sarsaparilla, without confounding 
them indifferently, as has been done. This study can be 
effected in the hospitals, and may afford important therapeutic 
results with regard to the pharmaceutic preparations of this 
medicine now in use. 
Journal de Pharmacie. 
