ANTHELMINTICS, . | 25 
the same colour asthe teaves; the stem grows from two to five 
feet high. Its medical properties are similar to the Spigelia; 
but it is better for the destruction of the round stomach worm, 
as they are sometimes called. The dose for a child from two 
to five years is one-third of a teaspoonful of the powdered 
seeds in Jam, treacle, or any way suitable, given the first thing 
in the morning for a few times, then followed by an opening 
medicine. An adult dose is from a half to a teaspoonful, given 
ina similar way. The oil distilled from the seeds is called 
chenopodium, or eil of worm seeds; i¢ has the same properties, 
and may be given in doses of five to twenty drops m an 
emulsion of gum arabic. 
WORMWOOD (Arremista ABSINTHIUM). 
This is one of the most ancient known plants. It is 
mentioned several times in the Bible as well as in the earliest 
medical books. It was formerly supposed to have vermifuge 
properties ; but experience has proved that it is weak in this 
respect. It makes a very good injection in seat or pin worms, 
which infest the lower bowels. It is so well known that a 
description is not required. For a tonic and appetiser it is 
far-famed, in biliousness and indigestion it is also good. 
While in Chicago we visited the office of a very wise old 
eclectic doctor, who was getting a dollar a head from quite a 
stream of patients. We noticed a stock of wormwood pressed 
into 1 oz. packets. Remarking that it was a good old herb, 
he said, “ Yes, I give it in every case of impaired appetite ; 
it makes them eat well.” We asked him if he told them 
what it was. ‘‘ Not likely,” he replied ; “that would never do, 
at least not for the dollars.” Some time ago a person from 
Oamaru was troubled with indigestion, so badly that he lost 
flesh and became very weak. He was recommended an 
infusion of this plant with horehound ; the effect was a return 
of health. The infusion is made by pouring a pint of boihng 
water on an ounce, keep in the steam, and take a wineglassful 
cold one to three times a day. Very large doses or long 
continued will weaken the stomach, cause headaches, &c. 
