26 THE NEW ZEALAND FAMILY HERB DOCTOR. 
MALE FERN (Asripium Fix mas), 
This variety of the fern grows almost everywhere, and as 
it is not generally known we will give it a place in our 
illustrations, so that our readers may be able to recognise it. 
lis properties are contained in the roots dried and powdered. 
Dose: from a tea- to a table-spoonful fasting, three or four 
mornings, then an aperient (it will be noticed that we 
recommend the same course in those vermifuges that do not 
contain an opening quality). Thespecies of worms over which 
the male fern has the most power is the tape. It isthe largest 
of all—sometimes measuring 100 feet. Some of our readers 
will hardly believe this; but it is true. We can show some 
specimens that we were instrumental in expelling with the oil 
of the male fern, the dose of which is from half to one tea- 
spoontul in capsule oremulsion. When dealing with this form 
of worm trouble we will give the most successful means for its 
cure. 
COWHAGE (DoteEcnos Prurtens). 
This is the hair off fruit of the abovenamed plant. It is 
very useful in expelling the round worms, which are like the 
earth ones. ‘The hairs taken in treacle or honey from five to 
ten grains for four doses, each night, then followed by a purge, 
will dislodge the enemy. There is one peculiarity about these 
hairs, which many will not forget, that is the torment which 
they cause if they get on the skin; it feels asif aswarm of bees 
had stung it. This is rather remarkable, seeing that they 
have no effect on the mucous membrano of the mouth and 
intestines. The cowhage may also bo taken for taps-worm. 
POMEGRANATE RIND. 
This tree grows in Africa and most hot countries. The 
fruit is pleasant acidulous, somewhat similar to the orange, and 
used for thesame purpose. The flowers, the rind, and the 
bark of the root have been used in medicine ag as ringents ; 
it is in the rind that the vermifuge property is found. A Dr. 
Christian says that it seldom fails to expel the tape-worm it 
properly administered, The directions are: Steep two cunces 
