£>>: ■ && ess ■■"--■'/• I 5 ^ 3 ^> >>s% 3 3 =» > 2> 8 ? > > > 1 J1 O T> 3^ >-> > J» >• ~u > >••• _> />} )> S30 \>^> j,j x>- 3 *X> 3>> JO g£)QOD£X04) 'OCDC'O^ i > > "} :> > ^» y "> , \ -^ -3 » > > > » > j < ; > ->' > > -f£ > > > 3 '■& j -=? -> ^ > ;> ^» > I' > J> > -j > > ' > Jt ■) > :> ^ 3 J> 3 » }>&n >•> Si >v< A^'"S ^> t> ) ^^ ii -s?-^ ^ -^-> j^ * ^^ ^ ^? ■■>-> Z>^ >J> ^^> >> >? > > i ^> -p y^ 2> 3 > _3 > ^ ^ - ^ ^ > ^ ^ >» ?? ? > -O > T> 3 ^ »«£• ? 'y ~3\» ».';*> > ^ 1 ^ ^^ » » ^ ) • " 'DO J> 3> > J> > ; ••*> » > :v 3 S3 &fc ^ ?>3 > o £> 3 o> ^ >> :> > y k> -> > J> > > > "»> =^ J ^» > > ~ 3' a>> 7> > 13 » 2> ^> ~* ^» --•» > ^ '^ » ->"5> '~3 ~3> '■> 3 >> 3 I ' > > > "> »> '-^, >_s : :» ^>^ ~i > 3 » J> o 5 > >> *_33 ^Bf > > j > >> J^ 2>j > »^ ► _> > > _3> >:> 3 »»^> • JOI^ v •> ~> > >-72 ^ M» >>•>_ « >> > ->^S r^ * > > 9 -j > ^ >^3^ > ^> > 2> >;>> >--> >LJ ► >> ^ ^> £5 ► >?J> t> J > > 5~>. > 5) • > >> > >> > •> > 3 i> 5> > > »^ » 3 3 > ^ > "7> >- :z> >> > > 7> s -3 s s>: > 73 *• > > 7> » > 7> > ^> 5 > 7> )0 3 im COLLECTIONS s .■'if -*-' FOR AN ESSAY TOWARDS A MATERIA MEDICA OF THE UNITED-STATES. By BENJAMIN SMITH BARTON,.M.D. PROFESSOR OF, MATERIA MEDICA, NATDRAL HISTORY, AND BOTANY,'. IN THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. \ \ 1 iJ^Li^* ^ PART FIRST. (\ ^ &c- P- U% ( 11 ) cines with which we are acquainted,'such as the Peru- vian bark, the extensive tribe of bitter medicines, as the Gentians, &c. The natural infirmities of mankind, and perhaps especially the vices to which civilized nations are so propense, will always render the tonics most ne- cessary implements in the hands of physicians. Our woods possess several medicines which, lam inclined to think, might be used, with advantage, as sub- stitutes for the Peruvian bark. Perhaps, most of our Oaks, which are, in general, different from the oaks of the old world, are of this kind. Sufficient trials have not been made with them; at least internally used. Externally, some of them have been employed, with advantage. I have used the bark of the Spanish oak* in gangrene, and I had every reason to think it was, in this case, equal in power to the best Peruvian bark. The bark of the Prunus Virginiana, or Wild-Cherry-tree, has been used in intermittent fevers, and found useful. This is a very common tree. Its leaves are poisonous to certain animals, as calves. Even the berries intoxicate different kinds of birds. The barks of the Common Sassafras (Laurus Sassafras), and Persimmon (Diospyros Virgi- niana) have likewise been found useful in intermittents. In the year 1793, I used the bark of the last of these ve- getables in an ulcerous sore-throatf. Our Willows have not been attentivelv examined. We have several native species, and I believe they possess nearly the same pro- perties which have been ascribed to the willows of Eu- rope!, by Stone, Haller, and other writers. The Dog- * Quercus rubra montana of Marshall. See his Arbustum Americanum: the •Xmerican Grove, &c. p. 123. Philadelphia: 1785. t Dr. Woodhouse has favoured us with some interesting information concern- ing the Persimmon. See his Inaugural Dissertation. Philadelphia: 17!)2 \ Particularly the Salix alba, Salix pontandra, Salix latifolia, &c ( 12 ) wood is a genus which seems well worthy of attention. Of this, the Cornus of the botanists, there are several species in North-America. The most common is the Cornus florida, or Common Dogwood*. I find this in every part of the United-States. It is one of our most beautiful shrubs. It flowers early in the spring, and with so much regularity, that some of our southern tribes were accustomed to name the spring-season from its flowering. The bark is considerably astringent. It has long been employed in intermittent fevers. A decoction of it has also been employed, and found very useful, in a malignant fever, called the yellow-water, Canada-distemper, &c. which, within the last eight years, has carried off great numbers of the horses in the United-States. The ripe fruit, or berries, infused in spi- rit or brandy, make an agreeable bitter. Our Indians employ an infusion of the flowers in intermittents. The same infusion has been much recommended by some in flatulent cholic. I have used it as a tea. The Cornus sericea, another species, is called Red- Willow and Rose-Willow; which are very improper names. The bark of this is often mixed with tobacco, and smoken by the savages. It has been found but little in- ferior to the common pale Peruvian bark, in intermittent fevers. This species grows in wet places, on the sides of rivers, creeks, &c. and flowers in August and Sep- tember. I know nothing of the medical properties of the other native species of this genus; viz. Cornus Canaden- sis, Cornus circinata, he. Many years ago, Zannichelli, and of late, Cusson and other wrriters, recommended the bark of the iEscu- ■s * Dogwood is the most common American name of this species. In some of the New-England States, it is known by the name of Box-wood. ( 13 ) lus Hippocastanum, or Common Horse-Chesnut, as a substitute for the Peruvian bark. This iEsculus is not a native of America, though it thrives very well in the open ground of Pennsylvania, &c. But we have at least two native species of the same genus within the li- mits of the United- States*. Whether the barks of these possess the properties which have been ascribed to the Hippocastanum, I do not know. They deserve to be examined. I must not omit to mention, under this head, the Magnolias. Of this fine genus, we have at least six species, viz. the Magnolia glauca, the acuminata, the tripetala, the grandiflora, the auriculata, and the Frase- rif. I believe they all possess nearly one general as- semblage of properties ; but of this I am not quite cer- tain. The species that is best known to me is the glauca, commonly called Magnolia, Beaver-tree, and Swamp-Sassafras. The bark of this is an agreeable aromatic, tonic, bitter medicine. It has been used in intermittent fevers. The flowers have a powerful, and to most persons an agreeable, smell. It is an emanation which must be considered as a potent stimulant, or incitant. I am well acquainted with a physician in whom the newly-expanded flower evidently increased the paroxysm of a fever, which came on every after- noon ; and also increased the pain of inflammatory gout. This is an interesting fact. In Virginia, a spirituous tincture of the cones, or seed-vessels, of the Magnolia acuminata, which is commonly called Cucumber-tree, has been used, and we are told very advantageously, in • JEsculus Pavia of Linnaeus, and JEsculus flavx of Aiton. t Perhaps, the Magnolia auriculata of Bartram and the Magnolia Fraseri of Walter are merely varieties of the same species. ( 1* ) rheumatic complaints*. The bark of the root of the Magnolia grandiflora, sometimes called Tulip-tree, is used in Florida, in combination with the Snake-root, as a substitute for the Peruvian bark, in the treatment of intermittent fevers. The flowers of the Magnolia tri- petala, or Umbrella-tree, have a very powerful smell. They often induce nausea and head-ache. I am inclined to think, that the Cortex Angusturae, which has lately been introduced into medical prac- tice, and is so greatly celebrated as a tonic, by the prac- titioners of Britain, is the bark of some species of Mag- nolia. The Liriodendron Tulipifera, well known, in the United-States, by the names of Tulip-tree, Poplar, White-wood, Sec. is very closely allied, by its botani- cal character, to the Magnolias. They both belong to the same class and order of the sexual system, and both, I believe, possess nearly the same properties. The bark of the Liriodendron is frequently used in intermitents. Many persons are of opinion, that in this case, it is but little inferior to the Peruvian bark. I have never em- ployed itf. The bark of the Populus tremula? or Aspin? has likewise been used in cases of intermittent fevers. This is a powerful tonic, and deserves the attention of the American physician. It has been found very useful, as a stomachic, in the diseases of our horses. * See Dr. Duncan's Medical Commentaries, for the year 1793. Vol. xviii. p. 445. t For some information concerning the medical properties of the Liriodendron, I must refer my readers to a short paper, by Dr. Rush, in the Transactions of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. Vol. I. Part. I. p. 183—185. Philadel- phia: 1793. ( 15 ) The Snake-root, the Aristolochia Serpentaria, is one of the more stimulating tonic bitters. It is certainly a valuable medicine, in the second stage of certain fe- vers, after the inflammatory diathesis has been removed. It was used, with great benefit, in a most malignant fever, attended with carbuncles, which prevailed at Bristol, on the Delaware, in this state, in the years 1749 and 1753. Another species of this genus, the Aristolochia sipho of L'Heritier, grows in the neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, and in other parts of the United-States. This is a large, climbing plant. The root has a pungent, aromatic taste, and for certain purposes is, perhaps, preferable to the common Snake-root. I shall conclude this subject of tonics by observ- ing, that we possess a good many of the bitter plants of Europe, which have long claimed the attention of phy- sicians. Our Gentians have not been carefully examin- ed. We have one species which appears to be equal to any of the officinal kinds yet known. Section III. Stimulants, or Incitants. The class of Stimulants, or Incitants, is so very extensive, that in order to exhibit a methodical or natural medical arrangement of these articles, it would be necessary to consider them under a number of differ- ent heads, or sections. But this, in such a sketch as I offer you, does not appear necessary. I shall content myself, therefore, with speaking of a few of our native ( 16 ) stimulant vegetables, under the two heads of such as. are more general, and such as are more partial, or topi- cal, in their operation. § I. General Stimulants. I think that many of our different balsamic pro- ducts may, with propriety, be considered under the head of general stimulants, though they are cer- tainly not the most diffusible articles of this class. Such is the resin of the Populus balsamifera, called Balsam, or Tacamahaca-tree. This is a native of North-America and of Siberia. The resin is procur- ed from the leaf-buds. This balsam is so very pene- trating, that it communicates its peculiar smell and taste to the flesh of certain birds, which feed upon the buds. It was formerly supposed, that the Tacamaha- ca of the shops was the produce of this tree. But it seems more probable, that it is the produce of the Fa- gara octandra*. The gum-resin which exudes from the Sweet- gum, or Maple-leaved Liquidambar-tree, the Liquid- ambar Styraciflua of Linnaeus, deserves to be menti- oned. The storax of the shops is thought to be the produce of this tree : but, perhaps, this point is not yet * The Fagara octandra is a small tree, which grows spontaneously in Cura- coa, and other West-India Islands, and also (according to Sonnerat) hi the Isle of France, in the East-Indies. ( 17 ) quite ascertained*. I am informed, that the produce of our tree has been used, with advantage, in diarrhoeas. Some of our southern Indians mix the dried leaves with tobacco, for smoking. To the head of stimulants I have no hesitation in referring a number of poisonous vegetables, with the properties of which we are not so well acquainted as we ought to be. Such are the Datura Stramonium, or James-town-weed, the Cicuta maculata, &c. The Datura is one of our most common plants. It is certainly a medicine possessed of useful powers. The properties of this vegetable have lately been more satisfactorily investigated by one of our members, Dr^ Samuel Cooper. We have several native plants of the natural order umbellifera. That described by the late Dr. James Greenwayt, under the name of Cicuta venenosa, should be carefully investigated. This, from his ac- count, must either be a direct sedative, or a stimulant, whose first operation is very soon accomplished. It kills without inducing pain or convulsions. Perhaps, the plant with which some of our Indians, when weary * It is more probable, perhaps it is certain, that the storax is the produce of the Styrax officinale, a tree which grows spontaneously in Italy, the southern parts of France, Aethiopia, and other countries of the old world. It is also said to be a native of the southern parts of the United-States. This, I think, is very doubtful. There are, however, in the Un ted-States at least two indigenous spe- cies of the genus Styrax, viz. the Styrax grandifolium and Styrax lxvigatum of Aiton. Of the medical properties of these, I know nothing. t See Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. Vol. III. No. xxix. In Virginia, this plant is called Wild-Carrot, Wild-Parsnip, Fever-root, and Mock-Eel-root D 7S, -Jinteff"*■"**'-■■**■ &*&&>*"•*■ ( 18 ) of life, destroy themselves, is the same. It grows in meadows, and has a root like a parsnip. Before I take leave of these poisonous plants, I may mention some others, whose properties are but lit- tle known. The first is the Rhododendron maximum, or Pennsylvania Mountain-Laurel. This is certainly a poison. It is a species of the same genus as the Rho- dodendron Chrysanthum, which has lately acquired much reputation in the cure of chronic rheumatism*. Nearly allied to the Rhododendron is the genus Kalmia. Of this we have several species, and all of them are poisons. The Kalmia latifolia, or Broad-leaved Lau- rel, is best known to us. It kills sheep and other ani- mals. Our Indians sometimes use a decoction of it to destroy themselves. In the county of Lancaster, an em- piric has used the powdered leaves, with success, in certain stages of fevers, and in tinea capitis. A decoction of the plant, externally applied, has often cured the itch; but it must be used with great care, for thus applied it has been known to occasion disagreeable subsultus, or startings, and convulsions. I have given the powder of this plant internally in a case of fever, and have thus, at least, ascertained, that it may be used with safety. * The Rhododendron Chrysanthum is a fine shrub, which grows spontane- ously upon the summits of the mountains in the neighbourhood of the river Jeni- sea in Asia; upon the mountains about the lake of Baical; through the whole of the country of Eastern Siberia; in the Peninsula of Kamtschatka, and in Behring's island, between the continents of Asia and America. It is not improbable (as Asia possesses so many vegetables and animals in common with North-Ame- rica), that this species of Rhododendron will also be found native within the li- mits of the latter continent; perhaps upon some of the great ranges of mountains in the United-States. Upon the Cheerake-mountains, in North-Carolina, my friend Mr. William Bartram discovered a beautiful new species of Rhododendron, which he has named Rhododendron aromaticuin. It is th» Rhododendron punc- tatum of Willdenow. ( 19 ) The medical properties of our different species of Andromeda and Azalea, which, in botanical character, are very nearly akin to the Rhododendron and Kalmia, are but little known to me. I have long suspected that they are poisons. A decoction of the Andromeda Mari- ana has been found useful, as a wash, in a disagreeable ulceration of the feet, which is not uncommon among the slaves, &c. in the southern states. The Gaultheria procumbens, which we call Moun- tain-tea*, is spread very extensively over the more barren, mountainous parts of the United-States. It belongs to the same class as the plants just mentioned. I have made use of a strong infusion of this plant, which is evidently possessed of a stimulant and anodyne quality. I am told it has been found an useful medicine in cases of asthma. But I have not learned to what particular forms of this disease it is best adapted, nor in what manner it operates. Our native species of Laurus deserve to be investi- gated. The Camphor and the Cinnamon belong to this genus: but, hitherto, they have not been discovered within the limits of the United-States. The properties of the Common Sassafras, which is a species of Laurus, have not been sufficiently examined. It is the Laurus Sassafras of the botanists. I have already mentioned the bark. Its oil seems to be an useful medicine. I have been assured, that this oil has been found an efficacious reme- dy, externally applied, in cases of wens. This looks probable; for our medicine is nearly allied to camphor, • It is also called Berried-tea, Grouse-berry, and Deer-berries. If I do not mis- take, this is one of the principal articles in the materia medica of some of our Indian tribes. In the language of some of the Indians of Canada, it is called iWfof«- ( 20 ) which has been used with advantage in bronchocele* I knew a woman in whom an infusion or tea of the root of the Sassafras always induced an oppression at breast, with sighing, and depression of spirits. During the late American war, necessity drove the inhabitants, in many parts of the United-States, to seek for a substitute for some of the spices to which they had been accustomed. They used the dried and powder- ed berries of the Laurus Benzoin, which we call Spice- wood, and Wild-Alspice-bush, and found them a tole- rable substitute for alspice.f The celebrated Ginseng, or Panax quinquefolium, may, with propriety, be thrown into the class of stimu- lants:}:. I find it difficult to speak of this plant with any degree of certainty. If it were not a native of our woods, it is probable that we should import it, as we do the teas of China and Japan, at a high price. The Eryngium aquaticum, or Water-Eryngo, is one of the stimulants which more especially act as su- dorifics. It is nearly allied, in its qualities, to the contra- yerva of the shops. It is one of the medicines of our southern Indians. They use the decoction. * The oil rubbed upon the head has been found very useful in killing lice. The bark, especially that of the root, powdered and mixed with pomatum, has the same effect. f " A decoction of the small twigs makes an agreeable drink in slow fevers, " and is much used by the country people. It is said the Indians esteemed it highly " for its medicinal virtues." Reverend Dr. M. Cutler. \ The Ginseng is by no means a powerful stimulant. It is not very happily arranged in the class of Medicamenta Stimulantia, or Incitantia. The Indians make use .of a tea prepared of the leaves as well as the root of this plant. But I cannot learn, that they so highly esteem the Ginseng as their Tartar brethren in Asia do. ( 21 ) Among the more acrid stimulants of our country, 1 may mention the Arum triphyllum, or Indian-Turnip, as it is most commonly called. I could wish that the pro- perties of this plant were examined with attention. The leaves of a plant a good deal allied to this, I mean the Dracontium pertusum of the botanists, are employ- ed, by the Indians of Demerara, in a very singular man- ner, in the treatment of general dropsy. The whole body of the patient is covered with the leaves. An uni- versal sweat, or rather vesication, is induced, and the patient often recovers. Perhaps, it would be worth try- ing this practice in cases of anasarca, which have resist- ed the usual modes of treatment*. * This fact was communicated to me by my friend, the late Mr. Julius Von Rohr, a gentleman whose death is a real loss to natural science, and perhaps an ir- reparable loss to the interests of an injured and oppressed part of mankind: I mean the Blacks. In the summer of 1793, I took my last adieu of this learned botanist, and most amiable man. He sailed, from New-York, for the coast of Afri- ca, where he contemplated the establishment of a colony of Blacks. A few days after he had landed on the African continent, he died of a malignant fever". With him, I fear, has perished, for a long time at least, one of the best concerted schemes for the safe and happy emancipation of the swarthy children of Africa. Von Rohr was another Howard. In benevolence and good sense, he was, at least, equal to the great English philanthropist. In science certainly, and perhaps in the simpli- city of his conduct, and the unambitious fervour of his zeal, he was his superior. Of all the men I have ever known, he appeared to me to be most eminently enti- tled to the character of a Practical Christian*. Mr. Von Rohr was a na- tive of Denmark. I hope his countrymen will do justice, if they have not already done it, to his great merits. It is the vice of ingratitude, it is even criminal, *o suffer so much disinterested goodness, as inhabited the bosom of my friend, to sleep, neglected, in the grave. Happy should I esteem myself, if I could hope, that this feeble, this retired tribute to the memory of one of the best of men, might lead those who knew him long and well, to do all justice to his virtues. With his merits in science.no man was better acquainted than the learned Professor Fabricius. C 22 ) & II. Topical Stimulants. By the topical stimulants, I mean those arti- cles which more especially increase the action or living powers of the parts to which they are applied, and which, at the same time, generally produce a discharge of fluid from the part. The Cantharis is one of these articles: but of this, as an animal body, and not a native, I have nothing to say*. The bark of our White-Walnut, or Butternut, the Juglans cinerea of Wangenheim, is a pretty efficacious blister. The bark of the root is more powerful than that of the stem or branches. It has been applied, with advantage, as a blister, to the bite of some of our veno- mous serpentsf. I believe the bark of our Moose-wood, or Lea- ther-wood, the Dirca palustris of Linnaeus, is also a blister. This plant, by its botanical habit, is nearly allied to the genus Daphne, all the species of which are blisters ; especially the Daphne Gnidium. Some of our Indians make use of a plant, which, when mashed a little, induces nearly as good a blister * The United-States, rich in the articles of the materia medica, furnish us with several species of insects, which may be employed as valuable substitutes for the cantharides of the shops. It is my intention to publish a particular account (illus- trated with coloured engravings) of these insects. It may not be amiss to observe, in this place, that the species commonly called " Potatoe-Fly," which is now much employed (and which I have often employed) as an epispastick, is the Lytta vittataof Fabricius: the Cantharis vittata of Olivier. Besides this, there are, in the United-States, several other species of the genus Lytta, one of which, in par- ticular, (the Lytta marginataof Fabricius, the Cantharis marginata of Olivier,) is eminently entitled to the attention of American physicians. t See Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. Vol.III.p.102,105,114. ( 23 ) as the cantharides. It has been used with advantage in sciatica. I do not know this plant. The Ranunculus sceleratus, or Celery-leaved Crowfoot, is a very acrid plant. If it be bruised, and laid upon any part of the body, it will, in a few hours time, raise a blister., This plant is a native of Europe and of America. The Ranunculus bulbosus, called Bulbous Crowfoot, and Butter-cups, possesses the same properties. This plant grows very plentifully in our meadows and fields ; but I believe it is not a na- tive. To this head of topical stimulants, I may refer seve- ral species of the genus Rhus, or Sumac ; particularly the Rhus radicans, or Poison-vine; the Rhus Vernix, or Vernice-tree ; and the Rhus Toxicodendron, or Poi- son-oak. In many persons they induce a peculiar and very troublesome vesication, which I have frequently removed, in a short time, by means of a mercurial wash. These plants are more active in the southern than in the northern climates. They more readily poison immedi- ately after than before a full meal. Their stimulant ef- fect is extended beyond the skin. It is said that the bark of one species (but I cannot tell you what species) has been found useful in intermittents. Section IV. Errhines. I have but little to say under the head of E r r - hines, or Sternutatory Medicines. Our native ( 24 ) vegetables of this class, with the exception of the To- bacco, are but little known to me. Of the Tobacco, as being so well known to you all, I need say ncthing. The brown powder which is attached to the foot- stalks of the leaves of the Andromeda, the Kalmia, and the Rhododendron, formerly mentioned to you, is con- siderably errhine. The powder about the seeds, in the seed-vessels of the same vegetables, possesses a similar quality. Whether this powder may be advantageously employed in practice I cannot say. We have many native species of the genus Euphor- bia, or Spurge. There can be little doubt, that some of them are sternutative*. Section V. Sialagoga. The number of Salivating Medicines is, I be- lieve, much greater than has been commonly imagined. Perhaps, there are but few of the Incitant medicines which may not be so managed as to salivate. Opium, camphor, and hemlockf all induce salivation J. * The leaves of the Asarum Canadense are errhine. f Conium maculatum. \ There are many well-attested instances of the salivating power of these three medicines. Hemlock, in particular, has been observed to produce this effect. I have seen, in a case of mania, a pretty extensive salivation induced by camphor. The patient, who had long been ill, was completely cured. This case occurred, uftder my care, in the Pennsylvania Hospital. ( 25 ) I am but little acquainted with our indigenous sali- vating vegetables. The Seneca Snake-root has, long since, been observed to possess this property*. The Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis, or Tooth-ach- tree, is a very powerful stimulant. Applied to the mouth and internal fauces, it occasions a copious flow of saliva. By this property, it appears to be a good deal allied to the Pyrethrum, Cochelaria, &c. I am informed that our plant is not merely an external sialagogue, but that even when taken into the stomach, it exerts its effects upon the salivary glands. I speak of the bark of the plant: but the seed-vessels have the same property. This medicine has been given internally in cases of rheumatism. Section VI. Emetics. Among the indigenous vegetables of our country, there are several which are entitled to your attention as Emetics. Such are the Euphorbia Ipecacuanha, the Spiraea trifoliata, the Asarum Canadense, &c. The first of these, the Euphorbia Ipecacuanha, like all the species of the genus, is an extremely active plantf. It is employed as an emetic by some of the coun- * In a case of hydrothorax (complicated with anasarca), that came under my own notice, the patient, a lady about fifty years of age, was very profusely saliva- ted by the use of a strong decoction of the Seneca. f This species of Euphorbia, or Spurge, grows spontaneously in various parts of the United-States. In the state of Jersey, within a few miles of Philadel- phia, it is pretty common, growing in the dry and sandy soil. It flowers early ' in the spring. It is the root which is employed. E • ( 26 ) try-people. I do not know the dose. I suppose it is small, for it belongs to the head of drastic emetics. I am not certain that it would be a valuable addition to the materia medica; but, perhaps, it would. There are many cases in which we have occasion to make use of immediate and active emetics; as when certain poi- sons, such as laudanum, &c. have been swallowed. In such cases it may, possibly, be of much use. I can speak with more confidence of the Spiraea trifoliata. This is a shruo, which grows very plentifully in various parts of the United-States. It is one of the few active plants of the class Icosandria, to which it be- longs*. The root, which is the part made use of, like that of the officinal ipecacuanha, consists of a cortex or bark, and a ligneous or woody part. The active power of the root seems to reside exclusively in the bark. It is a safe and efficacious emetic, in doses of about thirty grains. Along with its emetic, it seems to possess a to- nic, power. It has, accordingly, been thought peculiar- ly beneficial in the intermittent fever; and it is often given to horses to mend their appetite. This plant has a number of different names, such as Ipecacuanha, In- dian-Physick, Bowman's root, &c. We have several species of the genus Asarum, or Asarabacca. I am best acquainted with the Asarum Canadense, which is well known by the name of Wild- * Linnxus thought it very remarkable, that a plant belonging, as this does, to the order of Senticosx, should possess such active powers. " Spirxam trifoliatam Ipecacuanam vocant & vomitum facere dicunt, quod sane singulare esset in hoc online:" viz. Senticosx. Caroli a Linne, M.D. Pr'^*tWlftrt'w'ri'" '**** ******* m ( 44 ) Page 9. Actaea racemosa. The Indians make use of a decoction of this plant, along with other vegetables, as a remedy, given internally, for rheumatism: but they depend much more upon a decoction of the roots of the Actaea, externally applied. It may not be incurious to mention their manner of employing it. They make a hole in the ground, into which they put a kettle, contain- ing a quantity of the hot decoction. The rheumatic limb is laid over the kettle, in such a manner as to receive the influence of the steam. They keep up the heat of the decoction, by putting into it, occasionally, hot stones. I presume that the heat, independently of the vegetable employed, has something to do in the cure. Page 10. Liojjidambar asplenifolium. Colden was informed, that the Indians chew the root of this vege- table, with a view to stop haemorrhages in recent wounds. This effect of the Sweet-Fern may, perhaps, meet with some credit from those who have witnessed the wonder- ful powers of small doses of the preparations of lead, in diminishing and stopping, almost immediately after their reception into the stomach, haemorrhages from the uterus, intestines, &c. Page 11. S p a n i s h oak. In a case of gangrene of the foot, from a puncture of a nail, which came under my notice in the course of the last summer, I gave to the patient very large quantities of a decoction of this oak- bark ; at the same time that the affected part was con- stantly kept wet with the same decoction, or with a poul- tice made of bread and milk, with the bark. I cannot but ascribe the recovery of my patient entirely to the use of these means; and I am emboldened to recommend to my countrymen the use of this cheap remedy, as one highly worthy of their attention, in similar cases. ( 45 ) Page 11. Persimmon. The bark of the root of the Persimmon was one of the principal tonic medicines which were employed in the treatment of dropsies, by the late Dr. Matthew Wilson, of Lewes, in the state of Dela- ware. Of this medicine Dr. Wilson had an high opinion; and he has particularly remarked, that it gently purges; an effect which I have observed from the employment of galls, alum, and several other astringents. Manyof THE ASTRINGENT MEDICINES DO PURGE. Page 12. Cornus florida, or Common Dogwood. The bark of the root, stem, and smaller branches is used. That of the root is, by most persons, deemed the more efficacious. Sometimes, the bark of this Dog- wood is combined with that of the Liriodendron, and used either in decoction, or in substance. Page 13. " I am well acquainted with a physician," &c. The room in which the flowers of the Magnolia glauca produced the effects here mentioned, was not a small one, and was well aired. It was in the month of June. The late Mr. S. P. of Philadelphia, was always affected with a sense of great uneasiness about his chest, and with a strong tendency to fainting, whenever he en- tered a room where the flower of this Magnolia was.—A decoction of the bark of the root of the Magnolia is said to have been found very useful in the treatment of rheu- matic affections. Page 14. The Liriodendron Tulipifera. In some parts of the United-States, the bark of this tree has been used, and has acquired much reputation, as a remedy in cases of gout and rheumatism. As a medicine pos- sessing properties very nearly allied to those of the ( 46 ) tallida amara, or heating bitters, which have, for ages, formed a part of the celebrated gout-powders, I think it not improbable, that the Liriodendron may have been used, with the seeming advantage of putting off, for a time, the inflammatory paroxysm of the gout. But the well-known history of the gout-powder is not calcula- ted to encourage one to use (as a remedy, for the worst of diseases) a medicine which might only alter the shape of the disease, and give it a direction to the more essen- tially important part of the human frame. Page 17. Datura Stramonium. Since the publi- cation of the first edition of my Collections, I have had many opportunities of employing this medicine. I have used it chiefly in the form of an extract, prepared from the fresh leaves. I have principally exhibited it in cases of mania and epilepsy. I cannot hesitate to say, that it is a medicine of great and invaluable powers. It is my intention to publish the particulars of the cases in which I have employed this medicine, in a separate work*. I shall, therefore, content myself, in this place, with observing, that I have found the Stramonium es- pecially beneficial in cases of mania attended with little or no fever, or with a cold skin, and languid circulation. I have thought it necessary to give the medicine in very large doses. Beginning with a few grains, the dose is gradually increased, and in a few days it may, with safe- ty, be taken to the extent of fifteen or twenty grains. In one case of mania, I, at length, gave it to the extent of sixty grains, at a dose. When the patient had conti- nued upon this dose for some time, she broke out into biles upon various parts of the body, and was, at length, * discharged from the Hospital, ^erfedily cured. In se- * Medical Fafts, Experiments, Observations and Inquiries. ( 47 ), veral other cases of mania, the Datura has been of es- sential use. Except in one case, I have not perceived any inconvenience from it. In this case, whilst the patient was taking the medicine to the extent of thirty grains, it produced a very enlarged dilatation of the pu- pil of the left eye, and a palsy of the palpebra of the same eye. But even this was only a temporary inconve- nience, which was removed, in a very short time, by the application of a blister. The patient resumed the use of the extract, and was finally discharged from the Hospital, apparently cured. The beneficial effects of the Stramonium in cases of epilepsy have been likewise very manifest. In a case of epilepsy, accompanied, at various periods, with fe- ver, the medicine seemed to increase the sense of fulness in the head, and other disagreeable symptoms. But in several other cases, I exhibited it with the most mani- fest advantage. Although in no case have I been able to effect a cure with the Stramonium, I have, certainly, administered it with the effect of protracting the fits, and of diminishing their violence. Perhaps, much more than this cannot be said, with a strict regard to caution, of any other of the many medicines which have been re- commended for the cure of epilepsy. I h a ve been informed, that in the state of Kentucky, the seeds of the Stramonium are sometimes exhibited, with advantage, in cases of chronic rheumatism. On this subject, I cannot say any thing from my own expe- rience. The seeds of this vegetable are, unquestiona- bly, endued with very active powers. This is abun- dantly evident from the pernicious effects which are so frequently observed in children, who have swallowed the ( 48 ) seeds. Dr. John Archer, of Man land, has found them of much advantage in cases of epilepsy*. I have used them, with seeming benefit, in a case of mania. For much information concerning the Stramonium, I refer the reader to the late ingenious Dr. Samuel Cooper's Inaugural Dissertation on the Properties and Effects of the Datura Stramonium, &c. Philadelphia: 1797. This is a dissertation of great merit. It is well calculated to show, how much might have been expected from the labours of the amiable author, had it pleased Providence to prolong his existence, to a more matured age. But the withered, hand of death is ever ready to grasp the choicest flowers upon earth. Page 18. Kalmia Latifolia. I have now employ- ed the powder of the leaves of this plant, exhibited in- ternally, in some cases of tinea capitis. In this very troublesome disease, the Kalmia is, certainly, a medi- cine entitled to attention. I have also employed the powder of the leaves, made into an ointment with lard, and externally applied to a disagreeable herpetic affection of the skin. In this case, also, I have found it ex- tremely useful.----Even in confirmed siphylis, it has seemed to do good. In South-Carolina, this species of Kalmia is called Callico-tree. Page 19. " a decoction of the Andromeda Mari- " ana has been found useful as a wash in a disagreeable " ulceration of the feet, which is not uncommon among " the slaves, &c. in the Southern states." This com- plaint is very common, particularly among the negroes, * See Dr. Cooper's Inaugural Dissertation, &c. p. 52—54. ( 49 ) and the poorer sort of white people, in Carolina, Geor- gia, &c. It is called " toe-itch," and " ground-itch." It is a kind of ulcerous excoriation between the toes, sometimes extending as high as the instep, and is at- tended with most intolerable itching. It is, probably, in a great measure, the consequence of inattention to cleanliness. Is it occasioned by particular insects ? Some persons, with whom I have conversed on the sub- ject, are of opinion, that it is owing to the great warmth of the waters to the southward, in which the inhabitants are accustomed to wade a great deal. The disease is sometimes seen in Pennsylvania. Besides the Andro- meda Mariana, or Broad leaved Moor-wort, a decocti- on of the leaves of the Kalmia latifolia is used for the cure of this complaint. The decoction of the leaves of both these plants is used. They are both called " Wicke" to the southward. Page 20. " I knew a woman," &c. She was a stout, and seemingly very healthy, woman. She informed me, that a lady of her acquaintance was affected in the same way by this tea. I could not learn, whether the flowers of the Sassafras produced a similar effect. Ginseng. Notwithstanding what I have said, in the note, I must not conceal, that the Indians, in some parts of North-America, are said to use the Ginseng, " on re- ligious occasions*." Page 21. Arum triphyllum. In its recent state, the root of this species of Arum is extremely acrid. By dry- ing, we deprive it of much of its active quality. In this latter state, the root is frequently prescribed in catarrhal affections, of longstanding; and (if I do not mistake) in ( 50 ) asthma. The recent root boiled in lard, to the consist- ence of an ointment, has often been found useful in cases of tinea capitis, and in other similar affections. Page 23. The Ranunculus bulbosus. Every part of this species of Ranunculus is endued with an acrid quality. But it is especially the bulbous-like root which has frequently been used as a substitute for cantharides. Where the foreign and native species of blistering-flies cannot readily be procured, this Ranunculus ought not to be neglected. I have employed it, and am disposed to think, that it gives a more durable irritation to the part to which it is applied, than the animal blisters which I have mentioned. If this suspicion be well found- ed, it will not be denied, that there are cases in which the Ranunculus ought even to be preferred to those blisters. Among other such cases, I may mention ver- tigo, and affections of the stomach, both originating in a misplaced or irregular gout. I must not omit to add, that the roots of the Ranunculus, that are collected in the fall, may be very well preserved through the winter, by burying them in sOme fine, siliceous sand. When thus preserved, they retain, with very little diminution, their active irritating quality. Rhus, or Sumac. " In many persons" the Rhus radicans, Rhus Vernix, and Rhus Toxicodendron, " in- lt duce a peculiar and very troublesome vesication, " which I have frequently removed, in a short time, by " means of a mercurial wash." I have employed, in these cases, an aqueous solution of the muriate of mer- cury, or corrosive-sublimate. Nothing that I have made use of has so effectually removed the disagreeable symptoms as this lotion. Its good effects are very spee- ( 51 ) dily perceived. Many other applications are made use of, in various parts of the United-States. The principal of them are prepared from vegetables. That some of these do good, I shall not deny: but, compared to the prepa- ration of mercury, which I have mentioned, they are very inert applications. Of the vegetables, I think I have employed none with such decided advantage as the juice (mixed with cream) of a native species of Urti- ca, or Nettle; perhaps the Urtica pumila of Linnaeus— " It is said that the bark of one species (but I cannot tell " you what species) has been found useful in intermit- tents." Perhaps, it is the bark of the Rhus glabrum, or Smooth Pennsylvania Sumac. The juice of the Upland- Sumac (Rhus glabrum) is said to be excellent for removing warts, and also tetters. It is applied to the af- fected parts. This shows, that even this species, which is generally deemed innocent, possesses some active qua- lity. Indeed, I am inclined to think, that all the Ameri- can species of the genus Rhus are poisons to some consti- tutions. I am assured, that the Rhus typhinum, or Stags- horn-Sumac, has affected the skins of certain persons, in the same manner as the Rhus nidicans, &c. Yet the Rhus typhinum is generally considered as an innocent species. In some parts of the United-States, the Rhus glabrum is called " Indian Salt." It is said, that the Indians em- ployed the saline powder which invests the berries, as a condiment to their animal food. They also employ this substance as a mordant, or fixer, for the red colour with which they die the quills of the porcupine. They use other mordants for the same purpose.—With great satisfaction, I refer the medical and philosophical read- er of these Collections, to Dr. Thomas Horsfield's Ex- perimental Dissertation on the Rhus Vernix, Rhus radicans and Rhus glabrum. This dissertation, which ( 52 ) was published in Philadelphia, in 1798, reflects great honour upon the ingenious author, and even credit upon the University which gave it birth. Page 25. The Zanthoxylum. There are, in the United-States, at least two distinct species of this genus, viz. the Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis of Linnaeus, and the Zanthoxylum fraxinifolium of Marshall. The lat- ter is the species which is most common in the north- ern parts of the United-States, where it is known by the name of Prickley-Ash. The other species is more confined to the Southern states. This last, I doubt not, is the plant which Lawson alludes to, when he tells us, that the Indians cure the venereal disease " by a Berry that salivates, as mercury does." He adds, that " they use sweating and decoctions very much with it; " as they do almost on every occasion*." I suppose that this is also the plant which Lawson calls Pel- letory. " It is used (he says) to cure the tooth-ach, " by putting a piece of the bark in the mouth, which " being very hot, draws a rhume from the mouth, and " causes much spittlef." Both species of Zanthox- ylum appear to be well worthy of the attention of Ame- rican physicians. Unquestionably, they are powerful vegetables. Page 27. Eupatorium perfoliatum. A watery infusion of the leaves of this very common plant is a powerful, and not disagreeable, bitter. Examined by the common chemical tests, it appears to contain a great deal of the astingent principle. I think this pro- mises to be a really useful medicine in the treatment of * A New Voyage to Carolina, &c. p. 218. London: 1709. t The same, p. 100. ( 53 ) intermittent fevers. Some of our Northern Indians, who make use of it in these cases, call it by a name, which may be translated " Ague-weed." Page 27. Sanguinaria Canadensis. Dr. Schoepf makes mention both of the emetic and purgative power of the root of this pretty plant, which is extremely com- mon in almost every part of the United-States. He says, a weak decoction of it is used in gonorrhoea, and against the bites of serpents, and in bilious diseases ; that the juice is employed against warts; and (on the authority of Colden), that the powder of the root (in the dose of one drachm) is exhibited in jaundice*. I have been in- formed, that in some parts of New-England, a spiri- tuous tincture of the roots is frequently exhibited, as a tonic bitter, in different diseases. Adecoction ofthe roots is greatly recommended, as an external application, in the management of old ulcers. In this latter case, it is, perhaps, more worthy of a trial than in cases of jaundice. Page 29. Asclepias decumbens. The Asclepias decumbens and the Asclepias tuberosa of Linnaeus ap- pear to me to be merely varieties of the same species. Dr. Schoepf mentions a plant which, he says, is called in Maryland, Butterfly-root, and Pleurisy-root. He says, he has not seen the plant; but observes, that the name Butterfly-root seems to show, that it belongs to the class of Diadelphiaf. I am pretty certain, that this plant is no other than the Asclepias decumbens. It is called Butterfly-weed, &c. because its flowers are visit- ed by great numbers of butterflies. • Materia Medica, &c. p. 86 t The same, p. 160. ( 54 ) Page 29. Con volvulus panduratus. In Virginia, and some other parts of the United-States, the root of this plant has been much recommended in cases of gravel. It is used either in powder or in decoction. Is it con- stantly or considerably diuretic ? Page 32. " A species of Croton, or perhaps of " Stillingia," &c. This is one of the several medicines (and some of them are possessed of active qualities) which are employed by the Indians of Carolina, Geor- gia, and other southern parts of the United-States, as remedies for the cure of the venereal disease. It enter- ed into the composition of a medicine, which was much employed by a Dr. Howard (of North-Carolina), as a cure for the yaws. This medicine contained, besides the supposed Croton, the vines, or climbing stems, of the Bignonia crucigera.----It is not the Northern In- dians only who make use of the Lobelia siphilitica in the treatment of the venereal disease. This is also one of the articles in the materia medica siphilitica of the Cheerake, and other southern tribes. Page 33. Polygala Senega. Since the beginning of the year 1798, I have employed a strong decoction of this plant in several cases of cynanche trachealis, or hives. I am persuaded, that the Seneca is a very impor- tant medicine in the treatment of this common, and too frequently unmanageable, disease; and praise, in my opi- nion, isdue to Dr. Archer for his important discovery: for such I cannot but deem it. That the Seneca is a specific, or certain remedy, for the cure of the croup, I do not believe: but, from my own experience, I am led to repose more confidence in the use of this medi- cine than in any other. I have made use of a very strong ( 55 ) or saturated decoction of the root. I have always given it in large quantities. It appears to be chiefly beneficial, when it occasions an expectoration of mucus, and when it proves emetic. It is also very useful by virtue of its purgative quality. But I have known it to occasion very plentiful stools, without benefiting the patient. Indeed, in the exhibition of the Seneca, Iwould rather wish to guard against large purging. I have sometimes treated my patients almost entirely with the Seneca. Even in such cases, I have perceived most unequivocal good effects from it. But I have, more generally, given, along with the Seneca, calomel, and sometimes calomel comr bined with ipecacuanha. I have not omitted the employ- ment of the lancet (though this, in many cases of croup, is not absolutely necessary), and the use of blisters, or sinapisms, applied near to the sefit of the disease. I am happy to close this short notice by observing, that several respectable physicians in Philadelphia inform me, that they have used the Seneca, with much advan- tage, in the disease in question.----For the particu- lar manner in which Dr. Archer uses this medicine, I must refer the reader to his letter addressed to me, and published in the Medical Repository of New-York*. I have had no experience with the Seneca in cases of pneumonia. Notwithstanding what has been so fre- quently said concerning its great efficacy in this disease, I confess that I cannot believe, that it is a medecine adap- ted to the very first stage of pneumonia, while violent inflammatory symptoms are still present. After the li- beral use of the lancet, it is highly probable, that the Seneca will be found a very important medicine. In the pleurisy, as it is called, which prevails in many of i * Vol. II. No. 1. Art. vii. ( 56 ) the low and marsh) countries of the United-States, I do not doubt, that it has been of real use. This pleurisy, or pneumonia, js a true intermittent or remittent, attended with a local pain, either in the side or in the head. When the pain is principally confined to the head, the disease is called (a ridiculous name) " the pleurisy in the head." In either case, it is a complaint in which stimulating me- dicines (andsuch theSenecais) have been exhibited with advantage. In cases of this kind, though bleeding is often necessary, it will not be sufficient to effect a cure. Even blisters fail to destroy the type of the disease. In my own hands, the Peruvian bark has been exhibited, du- ring the remission of pain, with the happiest effect in pre- venting the recurrrence of the violent paroxysm. Page 36. Lobelia inflata. This is a very com. mon plant in many parts of the United-States. Its sensi- ble qualities are much in favour of its medical powers. The leaves have a very acrid and pungent taste. An infusion of them, in boiling water, when suffered to stand for some time, is at first, insipid to the taste ; but it soon excites a very perceptible, and even considerable, sense of pungency upon the tongue, &c. which contin- ues a good while. The taste is very similar to that of tobacco. This species of Lobelia, in all probability, will be found a diuretic. The Cassena. This is also called Cusseena, and Yaupon, or Yopon. A very favourite inquiry, in which I have been engaged for several years, and in which I am still engaged,naturally leads me to mention, in this place, a very remarkable tradition which some of our Indian tribes preserve concerning this species of Holly. " The " Savages of Carolina (says Mr. Lawson, who is an ( 57 ) author of much credit) " have this tea in veneration, 14 above all the plants they are acquainted withal, and 14 tell you, the discovery thereof was by an infirm Indi- 44 an, that laboured under the burden of many rugged 44 distempers, and could not be cured by all their Doc- 44 tors; so, one day, he fell asleep, and dreamt, that if 44 he took a decoction of the tree that grew at his 44 head, he would certainly be cured ; upon which he 44 awoke, and saw the Taupon or Cassena-Tree, which 44 was not there when he fell asleep. He followed the 44 direction of his dream, and became perfectly well in 44 a short time. Now, I suppose (continues our author), 44 no man has so little sense as to believe this Fable ; yet 44 it lets us see what they intend thereby, and that it has, 44 doubtless, worked feats enough, to gain it such an 44 esteem amongst these Savages, who are too well versed 44 in vegetables, to be brought to a continual use of 44 any one of them, upon a mere conceit or fancy, with- 44 out some apparent benefit they found thereby ; especi- 44 ally, when we are sensible, they drink the juipes of 44 plants, to free nature of her burdens, and not out of 44 foppery and fashion, as other nations are oftentimes 44 found to do*."----1 do not, indeed, imagine, that the Indians came to the first knowledge of the Cassena in the manner their tradition informs us. But, if I do not greatly mistake, a very interesting use may be made of this tradition : one which Mr. Lawson, in all probability, little thought of. The Chinese preserve a tradition concerning Darma, the son of a King of the In- dias, who was driven into China in the year 519, of the Christian era. Darma gave himself up entirely to re. ligion, passing his days and nights, without sleep. At length, he fell asleep. To atone for this crime, the good * A New Voyage to Carolina, &c. p. 221, 222. I r&h ( 58 ) man abscinded his genitals, the eye-lids of his eyes, and then enraged threw himself upon the earth, from which little shrubs now sprang up. These were the Tea, which has since spread its influence over more than half the globe. Darma now began to use the leaves of the new shrub, upon which his mind was affected with great joy, and he was restored to perfect health. He even,ceased to be emasculate. These wonderful properties of the tea were made known by Darma to his disciples, up- on which the leaves of the plant were received into uni- versal use. Kaempfer, from whose Amoenitates this story is taken, has given us a picture of Darma; but I presume the likeness could not be warranted*. Between the tradition of the Chinese concerning the first use of their beloved tea, and the tradition of the Americans concerning the first use of the Cassena, there is such a remarkable coincidence, that we cannot well hesitate to believe, that the two stories are actually branches of a common stock. This will appear the more probable, when it is considered, that many of the Ameri- can tribes are very closely allied to the Chinese, Tartars, and Japanese, not only by their physical appearances, but also by their languages, their customs, &cf. Per- haps, the Indian tradition concerning the Cassena may even lead us to conjecture, at what time some of the Ca- rolina. aAd other savage tribes separated from their pa- rental stocks, in Asia. It is possible that the word Tau> pon is preserved by the Americans, in memory of the islands of Japan, from which some of them are descended. * I have not, at present, an opportunity of consulting Kaempfer's work. I take the story from this celebrated naturalist, through the medium of Dr. Mur- ray's Apparatus Medicalninum.&c. Vol. IV. p. 246, 247. t New Views of the Origin of the Tribes and Nations of America. Appen- dix, p. SO, 31,32. Philadelphia: 1^98. I ( 59 ) Pages 37, 38. Spigelia Marilandica. In some parts of Carolina, &c. this invaluable plant is known (among other appellations) by the name of Snake-root. It is the Unsteetla of the Cheerake-Indians. Every part of the plant is possessed of the anthelmintic property, and ac- cordingly in Carolina the physicians employ the whole plant; chiefly in decoction*. But the active power un- questionably resides more especially in the roots. It is the opinion of many persons, that the deleterious effects which occasionally occur from using this vegetable do not arise from any pernicious property inherent in the Spigelia, but from the root of a distinct plant which is often mixed with the Spigelia. I do not think this notion is entitled to any serious attention. The Spigelia is, without doubt, a poisonous and narcotic vegetable. It is, in all probability, by virtue of this poisonous qua- lity, that it proves so beneficial in cases of worms. I am acquainted with a very intelligent physician, who in the exhibition of the Spigelia always deems it neces- sary, or proper, to persevere in the use of the medicine, until it produces some very decided effect upon the brain. I must confess, however, that I have often found it completely efficacious without observing, that it has occasioned the least inconvenience to the system. That it has sometimes done mischief, will not, I believe, be de- nied. Professor Bergius informs us, that he lias known instances of convulsions cured by the Spigelia, although no worms were expelled by itf. Dr. Garden, speaking of this plant, says, 44 It especially answers in continued or 41 remitting low worm-fevers, in which I use its decoc- * Both Lining and Garden were generally in the habit of using the Spigelia in substance; and this is, unquestionably, the most precise method of employing it. In Philadelphia, an infusion or decoction of the plant is more commonly made use of. t Materia Medica a Regno Vegetabili, &.c -« uma-rfTifii w . -mm ( 60 ) 44 tion, adding a small proportion of the root of the ser- "pentaria Virgin. Its effects in abating the feverish exa- 44 cerbations are so considerable, that in these I consi- 44 der it as themost powerful sedative*. It is an excellent 44 attenuantf." I have been induced to take notice, in this place, of the observations of Bergius and Garden, because a pretty extensive use of the Spigelia, has now convinced me, that this medicine very often affords re- lief, and indeed effects a cure, in cases in which worms are supposed to be present, but in which none are dis- charged. If I do not greatly mistake, this will be found an highly useful medicine in some of the febrile diseases of children, unaccompanied by worms, especially in the insidious remittent, which so frequently lays the founda- tion of dropsy of the brain. Page 38. The Chenopodium anthelminticum. This vegetable is also called Jerusalem-oak. The whole plant may be employed. Sometimes, the expressed juice is used, in the dose of a table-spoon full for a child, two or three years old. More commonly, however, the seeds are employed. They are reduced to a fine powder, and made into an electuary with some syrup. Of this the dose for a child, two or three years old, is a table-spoon, full taken early in the morning. The patient is to be * That the Spigelia is a sedative, taking this term in the sense in which it gene- rally is, and always ought to be, employed, I do not believe, notwithstanding the very respectable authority of Dr. Garden, and the high authority of Dr. Darwin. This last mentioned author (to whose genius and extensive learning I am always willing to pay due deference) arranges our celebrated anthelmintic in his class or article of Torpentia. (See Zoonomid). With much more propriety, he might have arranged it in his second article, to which he has given the name of lncitantia. In fact, the effects which the Spigelia exerts upon the human system are very similar to those which Datura and other similar articles (confessedly sti- mulants)are known to exert. In particular, the operation of the Spigelia upon the brain, very decidedly, demonstrates its stimulant power. \ Essays and Observations, Physical and Literary. Vol. III. Art. x. p. 149- ( 61 ) kept without nourishment for some hours after. After supper a like dose is administered. It is often necessary to continue this course for several days. Great num- bers of lumbrici are frequently discharged after the use of a few closes of the medicine. Page 39. Common Tobacco. There is a peculiar mode of employing the leaves of the Tobacco in cases of worms, which I cannot avoid mentioning in this place, especially as it has, in many instances, produced very happy effects. The leaves are pounded with vinegar, and applied, in the shape of a poultice, to the region of the stomach, or other part of the abdomen. In conse- quence of this application, worms are often discharged, after powerful anthelmintics have been exhibited inter- nally in vain. We ought not to be surprised at this effect of the Tobacco, since we know, that the same vegetable applied externally is often very efficacious in inducing vomiting. Accordingly, I have, for some years, been in the habit of applying Tobacco-leaves to the region of the stomach of persons who have swallowed large qaantities of opium, and other similar articles, with the view to de- stroy themselves. It is well known, that in these cases the stomach is often extremely iuirritable, insomuch that the most powerful emetics have little effect in rous- ing that organ into action. Here, as an auxiliary at least, the Tobacco, used in the manner I have mentioned, is, certainly, very useful, and in many instances, ought not to be neglected. Paa-e 39. Melia Azedarach. When I published the first edition of my Collections, I had not any experience in the use of this vegetable. Since that period, however, I have used it in several cases of worms, and always . ££0fcfi>v > -.; NM»***' ( 62 ) with advantage. Indeed, I am inclined to think, that the character of this new anthelmintic has not been too high- ly drawn. I will not assert, that it ought to be preferred to the Spigelia: for I have had much more to do with this, than with the Melia. The Meliais, unquestionably, a valuable anthelmintic, and ought to be introduced into general practice. I have employed the bark of the root, both in substance, and in the shape of a saturated decoction. In the case of an adult, who took the decoc- tion in large quantities, with the effect of discharging great numbers of worms, it seemed to occasion some confusion of head, and trembling of the hands. These, perhaps, were accidental symptoms : but I am disposed, with the patient, to ascribe them to the medicine. The worm-cases in which I have found the Melia useful were cases of the common round-worm, or Lumbricus intestinalis. I have not had any opportunity of trying how far it is a remedy against the taenia, or tape-worm. But I am informed that, in Carolina, it has been used with the effect of discharging great numbers of this spe- cies of worm. Should this prove to be the case, the Melia will be doubly entitled to our attention as an article of the materia medica.—It is not merely in cases of worms, that this vegetable has been found useful. Mr. Andrew Michaux, an intrepid French botanist, in- formed me, that in Persia, where this tree grows spon- taneously, the pulp which invests the stone of the fruit is pounded with tallow, and used as an "antisphoric," in cases of tinea capitis in children. Is the Melia a narcotic or poisonous vegetable? Its remarkable effects in destroying and dislodging worms renders this probable, but not certain: for many articles which, with respect to the human body, are entirely in- ( 63 ) nocent, are known to be noxious to intestinal worms, and many other animals. Such is sugar, as has been demonstated by the experiments of Redi, Carminati, and other writers. The case which I have alluded to ren- ders the deleterious quality of this vegetable very probable. I may add, 'that in some parts of Carolina, the root is deemed poisonous. Horses and horned cattle, however, eat, with impunity, the leaves and berries. Certain species of birds (particularly the Turdus migratorius, or Robin, and the Turdus Poly glot- tos, or Mocking-bird), devour the berries in such large quantities, that after eating of them, they are observed to fall down, and are readily taken. Does not this cir- cumstance render it probable, that the berries contain an intoxicating quality? This, however, I believe, is not the general opinion of the inhabitants of Carolina, who ascribe the condition of the birds merely to the circum- stance of their having eaten so abundantly of the berries, that they injure entirely by distention. The ripe berries have a sweetish, but nauseous taste. As the Melia is now completely naturalized to the states of Carolina and Georgia, it may not be amiss to close this article by observing, that the fruit of this vegetable i-s employed in Japan for furnishing an express- ed oil, which grows hard like tallow, and is used for making candles*. May not our fellow-citizens, to the south, render it worth their attention to follow the ex- ample of the Japanese, in the instance I have mentioned. It remains for me to say a few words concerning two other native American plants, both reputed anthel- • See Professor Thunberg's Travels in Europe, Africa, and Asia, ic. fcc Vol III. p. 228. English translation. London: 1795. ( 64 ) mintics, which are not mentioned in the preceding Dis- course. These are the Galega Virginiana, and the Cleome dodecandra ? The Galega Virginiana, or Virginia-Goats-rue, is one of the most beautiful of the known North-American plants of the class of Diadelphia. It is very common in many parts of Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, &c. In Jersey, it is called Cat-gut, from the resemblance of some of its roots to the article of this name. A decoc- tion of the roots is reputed a powerful anthelmintic. I have never used it. It may be observed, in this place, that, notwithstanding the general character of the class of Diadelphia, there are in this class some very active and even deleterious vegetables. It is somewhat in fa- vour of the anthelmintic power of the Galega Virginiana, that some West-India species of the same genus are said to intoxicate and poison fish. The Cleome dodecandra? or perhaps Cleome vis- cosa, is a native of Pennsylvania, New-York, &c. It grows, in great abundance, in the neighbourhood of Albany. The whole plant has an extremely fetid smell. In some parts of the United-States, the root is employ- ed as a remedy against worms. How far L ,is really useful with this intention, or by what power it acls, in destroying the worms, I do not know. I do not men- tion the anthelmintic virtue of the Cleome, merely on the authority of Dr. Schoepf*. THE END. • See his Materia Medica, Jkc p. 106. COLLECTIONS FOR AN ESSAY TOWARDS A MATERIA MEDICA UNITED-STATES. Bv BENJAMIN SMITH BARTON, M. D. PROFESSOR OF MATERIA MEDICA, NATURAL HISTORY, AND BOTANV, IN THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.

) is> in part, well founded. It was remarked by a wri- ter*, who was more distinguished for the \ ivacity of his wit than for the solidity of his judgement, that the intermittent fever prevailed in Europe, but that the Pe- ruvian bark was found in South-America. This ob- servation was intended as .an exception to the general rule which I have mentioned. Perhaps, it was in- tended to arraign the benevolent order of Providence. But the observation can have no weight with phvsici- ans Who know, that the intermittent fever is the dis- ease of almost every climate, and that the Peruvian bark is not the only remedy that is capable of subduing this disease. " Without any regard; however, to the rule that, in general, the remedies for diseases ex ist in the na- tive countries of such diseases, it may safely be conjec- tured, judging from the discoveries which have al- ready been made, in the term of three hundred years, that there are no countries of the world from which there is reason to expect greater or more valuable ac- cessions to the Materia Medica, than the countries of America. The different species of Cinchona, or Peru- vian bark, the Quassia, the Simarouba, the Guaiacumj the different kinds of Jallap and of Ipecacuanha, the Polygala Senega, the two species of Spigelia, not to mention many other valuable medicines, are all natives of America; and most of them have not, hitherto, been found in any other portion of the world. •' It has often been said, that the Materia Medica is already crowded with a great number of inert, use- * Monsieur De Voltaire. ( 11 ) less, or pernicious medicines. This I think is strictly true; and it is certainly, high time to banish from the shops many of the medicines, or articles, which they contain. This fullness of the Materia Medica ought not, however, to make us relax in our inquiries into the properties of the vegetables of our own and of ether countries. No candid physician will decy, that he often meets with cases in which the choice of active medicines is a matter of consequence. So various are the constitutions of our patients ; so infinitely various are the forms under v/hich diseases present themselves., that it becomes absolutely necessary to know, and tQ possess, a great number of different medicines, even of those which are endowed with a common assem- blage of properties. "I am not ignorant, that there are some persons, who consider the science of medicine as a science of extreme simplicity ; who believe, or affect to believe, that in the treatment of diseases, we have arrived at something like the ultimatum of' perfection. We are already, say these persons, in possession of all the means that are necessary for the alleviation, or for the cure, of our diseases. It is needless, then, to ran- sack nature any further. "In opposition to such an opinion as this, it will be sufficient to hint ae the recent date of the in- troduction of some of the most important articles uf medicine into the Materia Medica ; or at the recent date of our acquaintance with the new properties aad powers of those which have long been known. Tlv; properties of Mercury could hardly be said to be ( 12 ) fcnown until the general spread of the venereal disease through Europe, towards the end of the 15th and the beginning of the 16th centuries. Nay not more than half the invaluable powers of this herculean medi- cine were discovered before the middle of the last cen- tury ; and I cannot hesitate to believe, that many of its properties are still unknown. The Peruvian bark, the Ipecacuanha, the Jallap, the Tobacco, the Guaia- cum, and many others, were not even named to the physicians of the old-world, until several years after the discovery of America, in 1492. Some of the most valuable properties of Opium, such as its use in the treatment of low nervous fevers, were not detected before the middle of the eighteenth century ; and of the Digitalis, one of the most common plants of some of the most cultivated countries of Europe, little ex- cept the fact of its being an extremely deleterious plant, was ascertained previously to the excellent pub- lication of Dr. Withering. These facts, certainly, show us, that we have no reason for believing, that the list of important articles of the Materia Medica is completed •, or that we are fully acquainted with all the properties of those which have been known for hundreds of years. On the contrary, they render it highly probable, that hitherto, we have discovered but a very small part of those vegetable and other re- medies, which Providence, in the fulness of his be- nevolence, has scattered over the earth. " In conducting our inquiries into the properties pf the medicinal vegetables of our country, much use- ful information may, I am persuaded, be obtained ( is ) through the medium of our intercourse with the In- dians. Let not this observation induce any of you to suppose, that I am of opinion, with many travellers, and with some writers on the Materia Medica, that the savages of North-America are in possession of abso- lute specifics for all, or for any, of their diseases. I am too much of a skeptic in matters that regard the science of medicine to admit of the existence of any medicines that are strictly entitled to the name of spe- cifics; and my inquiries concerning the diseases and remedies of our Indians have convinced me, that among these people the art of medicine is truly in a shapeless and an embryo state. "It is, nevertheless, certain that some of the rudest tribes of our continent are acquainted with the general medical properties of many of their vegetables. Like the rest of mankind, they are subject to diseases; and like all nations in the savage forms of society, many of their diseases are violent. Nor, notwith- standing what has been repeatedly asserted to the contrary, are the diseases of those North-American tribes with whom we are the best acquainted either simple or 'few. The diseases of our Indians, even of those tribes who have been the least influenced, or corrupted, by their intercourse with more civilized nations, are numerous, and often present themselves in the mixed or complicated forms which have been sup- posed to be, in a great measure, confined to nations in the more improved and luxurious stages of society. It is, I believe, a truth, that the medicines of. savage and other uncultivated nations are, in general, medi- cines of an active kind. Thus, if we except that ( 14 ) farrago of articles which are employed by our In-t dians as supposed remedies against the bites of venc mous serpents,* we shall find that the Materia Medi- ea of these people contains but few substances as in- ert as many of those which have a place in our bocks on this science, and on other parts of medicine. The astringents and tonics, which they employ in the treatment of intermittent fevers, are the barks of some species of Cornus, or Dogwood, such as Cor- nus florida and Cornus sericea, both of which are found to possess properties very nearly allied to those of the Cinchona,, or Peruvian bark: their purgatives are different species of Iris, or Flag, the root of the Podo- phyllum peltatum, or May-apple; the bark of the Jug- lans cinerea, or Butter-nut, and some others: their emetics are the Spiraea trifoliata, or Indian Physic ; the Euphorbia Ipecacuanha, Sulphat of Iron, or Copperas, and many others : their sudorifics are the active Polygala Senega, or Seneca snake-root, the Aristolochia Serpentaria, or Virginia snake-root, the Eupatorium perfoliatum, or Thorough-wort, the Lobe- lia siphilitica, &c: their anthelmintics are the Spige- lia Marilandica, or Carolina Pink-root, the Lobelia Cardinalis, or Cardinal-Flower, &c. (i Frojm this list, which it would be an easy task *o render more extensive and more perfect, it must be pbvious, that the Indians of. North-America are in possession of a number of active and important reme- dies. It will not be denied, however, that they do not always apply their remedies with judgment anddiscern- * Sue Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. Vol. iii. No. xi. ( 15 ) ment. But what treasures of medicine may not be ex. pected from a people, who although destitute of the lights of science, have discovered the properties of some of the most inestimable medicines w ith which we are acquainted ? Without mentioning the produc- tions of South-America, let it be recollected, that it id to the rude tribes of the United-States that we are in. debted for our knowledge of Polygala Senega, Aris» tolochia Serpentaria, and Spigelia Marilandica. " It is observed by De Pauw, that fiotany is the only science that is known to savage nations.* This observation is more just than many others that are to be found in the writings of this singular author. But it would have been still more just, if, instead of Bo- tany, the term Materia Medica had been employed. Savages, in general, know nothing of the sexual differ* ences of vegetables; their classification, &.c circumstan- ces intimately appertaining to the science of Botany, f. But a knowledge of the obvious habit or deportment of their plants, and of the general properties of these plants, is, indeed, a very prominent feature in the description of many savage nations : it is, perhaps, more especially a prominent feature in the descriptiort of the savage nations of North-America. * Recherchcs Philosophiqties sur les Americains, &c. Tome 1. f If, howc%-er, we may depend upon the observations of Dr. Forster, the inhabitants of Otaheite, and other islands in the Southern Pacific Ocean, arc » acquainted with the sexual system, especially in the coco-palm." These people have also learned to designate by distinft and often appropriate names, the brafle and various other parts of the plant, in a manner so corre&, that it must be acknowledged, that the dawn of Scientific Botany has commenced among them. See Observations made during a Voyage round the world, &e: p. 498, 499, 500. London: 1778. 4to. ( 16 ) " But it is only with their general properties that they are acquainted. For the discovery of these the Uncultivated reason of man, even the wild instinct of the animal, are often sufficient. It is the province of science; it is the duty of those who attach themselves, with a well-guided ardour, to the amiable pursuits of medical and natural science more especially, to investi- gate, with a laborious and accurate attention, the whole of the properties of the various natural objects by which they are surrounded. The illiterate Indians of Loxa, in Peru, were not ignorant, that the Peruvian bark cured intermittent fevers: but it was reserved for men of science, aided by the ample experience of ma- ny years, to discover the numerous other properties of this important, this indispensible, article of the Materia Medica." * * * # * * * * * COLLECTIONS, &c. Section I. Astringents. GERANIUM maculatum*. This is, certainly, a vegetable entitled to the attention of American physicians. In Kentucky, where it is called " Crow-foot", it has been collected for the Tormentilf of the shops. In some of the north-western parts of the United-States, it is known by the name of Racine a Becquet, after a person of this name. The western Indians say it is the most effectual of all their remedies for the cure of the venereal disease. I have not, however, been able to learn, in w hat form or stage of this disease they employ it. I doubt not it would be found very useful, exhibited internally, in cases of old gonorrhoea. In such cases, the internal astringents are too much neglected. An aqueous infusion of the root forms an excellent injection in gonorrhoea. In old gonorrhoea, and in gleets^ a more saturated infusion maybe employed, either alone, or combined with a portion of the sulphat of zinc, or white vitriol. * See Collections, &c. Part First, pages 8 & 43- f Tormentilla erecta of Linnseus. ( 2 ) Both the simple sulphat and the oxy-sulphat of iron strike a deep violet colour w ith the infusion of the root in water. Heuchera Americana*. This is the Heuchera Cortusa of Michauxf, who has unnecessarily changed many of the long-received names of American plants. This Heuchera is one of the articles in the Materia Medica of our Indians. They apply the powdered root to wounds, and ulcers, and cancers. Of the Pyrola umbellata I have made no mention in the first part of this work. It is a very common North- American plant, and is sometimes called Ground-Holly, but is much better known (at least in New-Jersey and in Pennsylvania) by the name of PippsissevaX, which is one of its Indian appellations. In the sexual system of Linnaeus, it belongs to the same class and order (Decan- dria monogynia) as the Uva Ursi. It also belongs to the same natural assemblage of plants as the last mentioned vegetable: viz. the order Bicornes of Linnaeus, and the order Ericee of Mr. de Jussieu. The two plants are, unquestionably, nearly allied to each other in respect to their botanical affinity, as well as in their medical pro- perties. The Pyrola is considerably astringent, and the quan- tity of astringency.appears to be nearly the same in the leaves and in the stems. Hitherto, it has not greatly excited the attention of physicians. But I think it is worthy of their notice. A respectable physician, in East- Jersey, informed me, that he had employed this plant, * See Part First. Page 9. f Flora Boreali-Americana, &c.Tom. i. p. 171. | Perhaps* Phipsesaiua. ( 3 ) with manifest advantage, in the same cases in which Uva Ursi has been found so useful. This looks very pro* bable: for it would seem, from many facts, that the lithontriptic powers of the Uva Ursi are, in no small de- gree, owing to the astringent quality of this plant: and, " perhaps, upon the whole (as an eminent practitioner* " has observed), we shall find it no better than other vege- " table astringents; some of which have long been used " by the country people, in gravelly complaints, and with '' very great advantage: though hitherto, unnoticed by " the regular practitioners!'\ Th e Pyrola, as I am informed by my pupil Dr. John S. Mitchell, has been used, with goo>dJeffect, in some cases of intermittents. In one case, its diuretic opera- tion was evident. " The urine discharged was almost " black. It appeared as if a few drops of a solution of "the sulphat of iron had been put into an astringent " infusion^." This was a solitary occurrence, and one which I am unable to explain. For more ample information concerning this vegeta- ble, I beg leave to refer the reader to Dr. Mitchell's In- augural Essay on the Arbutus Uva Ursi, and the Pyrola umbellata and maculata of Linnaeus§. Prefixed to this » Dr. Withering. See A Systematic Arrangement of British Plants, &c Vol. II. p. 391. London: 1801. f I cannot forbear mentioning in this place (at the risk, perhaps, of ex- posing myself to the ridicule of the mere theorist), that the nuclei, or kernels, of the common American Hazlenut (Coryfus Americana) have been found very useful in affording relief to several persons labouring under nephritic, and perhaps calculous affections. I mention this fact on the respectabje authority of my friend, Dr. Frederick Kuhn, of Lancaster, in Pennsylvania D* these ker- nels act solely by virtue of their astringent quality ? \ Letter to me, dated Sunbury, August 8th, 1803. $ Philadelphia: 1803. ( 4 ) dissertation, there is a good figure of the Pyrola um- bellata. The Myrica cerifera, or Candle-berry Myrtle, deserves to be mentioned in this place. This is a common shrub in many of the maritime parts of the United-States, as in New-Jersey, Delaware, &c. This is, unquestionably, a very powerful astringent, and as such has been em- ployed by the country-practitioners of the United-States. A decoction of the bark of the root is employed, some- times alone, and sometimes in combination with the bark of the root of Persimmon, or with the bark of the Black- Alder, which I am afterwards to mention. The sim- ple or combined decoction of the Myrica has been used, with much advantage, in dropsical affections succeeding to intermittents, particularly in the peninsula of Dela* ware, where dropsies, in various shapes, are, perhaps, more common than in any other part of North-America, within the same latitudes. The root of the Myrica has likewise been found useful in the treatment of haemor- rhages from the uterus, &.c. It was remarked by an old physician,* who had much experience in the use of this vegetable, that it often acted as a gentle purgative. Several varieties of the Myrica cerifera are de- scribed by the botanists. That of which I have been speaking is distinguished by the circumstances of its hav- ing broader leaves, and larger berries, than the others. It is the variety marked jB and named media, in the Flora Boreali-Americana of Michauxf. I cannot, however, assert, that as an astringent, this is to be preferred to the other varieties. * Dr. Matthew Wilson. t Tom. 11. p. 228. ( 5 ) The Myrica Gale, called Sweet-Willow, of Dutch- Myrtle, and also American Bog-Gale, is likewise a na- tive of the United-States. But this, to which useful qualities are ascribed, by Linnaeus and other writers, seems less worthy of our notice than the above-mentioned species. The Prinos verticillatus* of Linnaeus is a very com- mon shrub in many parts of the United-States. It is especially common in the maritime parts of the union, at least as far south as North-Carolina; and is generally found to grow in the greatest perfection in swamps, or marshy places. It is the Prinos Gronovii of Miehaux. To the inhabitants of New-Jersey and Pennsylvania, it is well known by the name of Bla6k-Alder. If I do not mistake, however, the same appellation has been bestow- ed upon another American shrub, the Ilex ? Canadensis of Miehaux. Care must be taken to distinguish our Prinos from the Swamp-Alder, or Candle-Alder, which> is the Betttla serrulata of Aiton. The bark of the Prinos verticillatus is manifestly as- tringent. It is, likewise, considerably bitter, and along with these properties there is united a degree of pungency. The berries, which are of a fine fed colour, greatly, par- take of the brtter quality, and if infused in wine or brandy, might be employed, with advantage, in many of those cases m which bitters, in a vinous or spirituous men- struum, are exhibited by physicians. But it is especi- ally the bark of the shrub that seems entitled to our attention. This has long been a popular remedy in different parts of the United-States. But as yet, it has been * Marshall calls this Virginian Winter-Berry. ( 6 ) greatly neglected by the regular physicians, only a few of whom (so far as I can learn) have been in the habit of employing it. This bark possesses the common proper- ties of the vegetable astringent and tonic medicines; and, accordingly, it has been used as a substitute for the Pe- ruvian bark, in intermittents, and in other diseases. It is employed both in substance and in decoction, most commonly, however, in the latter shape. It is supposed to be especially useful in cases of great debility unaccom- panied with fever; as a corroborant in anasarcous and other dropsies, and as a tonic in cases of incipient spha- celus, or gangrene. In this last case, it is, unquestion- ably, a medicine of great efficacy. It is both given inter- nally, and employed externally as a wash. On many occa- sions, it appears to be more useful than the Peruvian bark. It ought to have a place in the shops, and in the Pharmacopoeia of this country, when such a deside- ratum SHALL BE SUPPLIED. In making decoctions or infusions, for the different purposes which I have mentioned, the berries are often mixed with the bark. The Orobanche Virginiana, or Virginian Broom-rape, is a very common plant in many parts of North- America* Miehaux says that it grows from Canada to Georgia. It is generally, if not always, found under the shade of the American Beach-tree (Fagus ferruginea)*. Hence one of its names, in Pennsylvania, viz. " Beach-drops." But it is much more generally known by the name of Cancer- rootf. * Miehaux entirely restricts its habitation to the root of the Beach: " In radice Fagi nee alise plants." Flora, &c. Tom. II. p. 26. t See Elements of Botany, &c Part Third, p. 80. ( 7 ) Every part of this plant is considerably astringent. This astringency is evinced not only by the taste of the plant, but also by subjecting it to chemical examination. The infusion or decoction assumes an ink-like colour, on adding to it a solution of the sulphat of iron, or cop- peras. But along with the astringency, especially in the recent plant, there is combined a peculiar and extremely nauseous bitterness. Judging by the taste, we should not hesitate to say, that the Cancer-root is a vegetable endued with considerable powers. It must be confessed, however, that these powers are much less obvious in the dried than in the recent vegetable. Some of the medical powers of this plant have long been known to the people of the United-States. It has been celebrated as a remedy in dysentery. There are, I think, cases of dysentery in which much advantage might be expected from the exhibition of a medicine possessed of the powers of the Cancer-root. But this vegetable has acquired its principal reputation as a re- medy in cancerous affections. How far it is entitled to any character in such affections, I am unable to say, hav- ing never employed it in a case of genuine cancer. But it is proper to mention, that the Orobanche has been sup- posed, by many persons, to have formed a part of the celebrated cancer-powder of Dr. Hugh Martin, whose success in the management of many cases of this dread- ful disease, has been acknowledged by the regular prac- titioners of Philadelphia, &c. As early as 1785, at which time I was a student of medicine, I was informed, by the people inhabiting the western parts of Pennsylvania and Virginia, that this Orobanche formed the principal part, if not the whole, of Martin's powder. It was even said, that Martin, who ( 8 ) had passed some time at Fort-Pitt, was known to have collected the plant for the purpose. I believe it to be a fact sufficiently established, that the basis (or perhaps rather the most active part) of Martin's powder, was the oxyd of arsenic. This has been shown by a chemical examination of the powder*, and by other circumstances nearly as decisive. Thus comatose affections (such as are known to be induced by arsenic) have been induced by the powder of Martin, even when externally applied in cancerous ulcers. A case of this kind came under the notice of a physicianf in Philadelphia. The patient seemed to fall a victim to the application of the medicine. But the powder of Martin did not consist entirely of the oxyd of arsenic. This is certain. I believe it to be certain also, that he combined with the arsenic, a vege- table matter; and from what has been said, it would seem not entirely improbable, that this vegetable was the Orobanche Virginiana. It may be said, and it is not impossible, that Martin added the vegetable matter merely to disguise the arsenic, reposing, aj the same time, all his confidence in the arsenic alone. I think it more probable, however, that the superior efficacy of Martin's powder, and of the pow- ders in the hands of other empirical practitioners, has heen, in part, owing to the addition of something to the arsenic. If there be no foundation for this suspicion, how has it happened, that in the management of cancers, the empirical practitioners have often succeeded so much better with their medicines than the regular physicians * See Dr. Rush's paper on the subject, in the TraOfSaotipns of the American Philosophical Society. Vol- II. No. xxyi. f Dr. Adam, £uhn, from whom I received the fact. ( 9 ) have done? Both use arsenic. Some of the cancer pow- ders, employed by empirics, in Europe, are known to have been composed, in part, of arsenic and a vegetable matter. The celebrated powder of Plumked was made up of arsenic, the root of a species of Ranunculus, or Crow-foot; and sulphur. Whatever may have been the vegetable which Martin used in combination with arsenic, it is cjrt.u'i, that the powder of the Orobanche, or Cancer-root, kis been of great service (in Philadelphia, &c.) externally applied to obstinate ulcers, some of which had resisted the applications that are commonly made use of in such cases. It would be well to try the effects of this vegeta- ble in those dreadful ulcerations (by some writers deemed cancerous), which are too frequently the consequence of the use of mercury, when it has been given in large quantity. Cases of the kind I allude to, are recorded by Dr. Donald Monro, Mr. Adams, in a valuable work*, and other writers. I have had occasion to see some ul- cerations of the same kind in Philadelphia. They often refuse to yield to stimulating or to mild applications. With the view to encourage further inquiry into the nature and properties of the Orobanche Virginiana, I may here mention, that one of the European species of this genus, the Orobanche major, or Greater Broom-rape, is a very powerful astringent, and is said to have been found useful, externally applied, in cases of ulcers. This I mention on the respectable authority of Sir John Flo- yerf. The activity of the European plant may even be inferred from the fact mentioned by Shrebcr, that cattle • Observations on Morbid Poisons, Phagedena, and Cancer, &c. p. 65, &c London: 1795. f Pharmacobasanos, or The Touchstone of medicines, *c. p. 1j9. Lon- don: 16S7- B ( io ) do not eat it. We must pay, perhaps, no regard to cer- tain other powers which have been ascribed to it. " Dicunt autem facere, ut taurum vacca appetat*." I have not been able to learn whether the Orobanche Virginiana is eaten by the horned cattle, or other quadrupeds. Section II. Tonics. I Shall open this section with a few notices con- cerning some indigenous Bitter vegetables, which seem well entitled to the attention of physicians. At the same time, I avail myself of an opportunity of observing, that the tonic quality of vegetables does not so much consist in bitterness as some celebrated writers! have imagined. It will not be denied, that many of the bitters (even those which have their bitterness unmixed with astringency) are some of the most useful tonics with which we are acquainted. But, it must be allowed, that certain other bitter vegetables have but a feeble claim to the character of tonics. And it would not be a difficult task to show, that some of the most valuable tonics are (strictly speak- ing) neidier bitter nor astringent. It is not easy, there- fore, to say, in what the tonic property of medical agents does especially consist. It will hardly be doubted, how- ever, that every tonic exerts a stimulant effect upon the system, though, on many occasions, it may be difficult or impossible to measure the intensity or degree of the sti- * Alberti v Haller Historia Stripium Indigenanvm Helvetia: inchoata. Tom. i. p. 130. t Dr. Cullen, particularly. See his Treatise of the Materia Medica. Vol. II. p. 55, Sec. ( 11 ) mulus applied, merely by an attention to the pulse. The pulse is often a very uncertain or fallacious TEST OF THE OPERATION OF STIMULANT AGENTS. The Zanthorhiza apiifolia* of L'Heritier, or Parsley- leaved Yellow-root, is a native of North and South Caro- lina, and Georgia. It is a small shrub, which flowers early in the spring. This vegetable has long been known; but it is only within a very few years that it has excited the attention of physicians. The bark of the root is intensely bitter; I think more so than the root of Columbo. This bitter property pervades the wood of the root, as well as the bark: but in the former it is, unquestionably, weaker than in the latter. The bark of the stem is also bitter, perhaps but little less so than that of the root. The sensation of bit- terness that is left in the mouth, when the bark has been chewed, is very durable and adhesive. It continues, to a considerable degree, even afterthe mouth has been repeat- edly washed with cold water. There does not seem to be combined with the bitterness, any very considerable de- gree of a foreign acrimony. However, upon holding the bark for sometime in the mouth, it evidently communi- cates to it a sense of pungency, or acrimony. I think there is less of this pungency in the {)ark of the stem than in that of the root. The infusion of the bark of the root, in hot water, had a disagreeable and somewhat virose stnell. From this however, it ought not to be inferred, that the Zan- thorhiza is a deleterious plant. A similar smell belongs • Zanthorhiza rimplicissima of Marshall, and Zanthorhiza tinctoria of Woodhouse. The specific name apiifolia should be preferred. ( 12 ) to many other bitter vegetables, even to some of those which appear, from the experience of many ages, to be entirely innoxious. I am not ignorant, indeed, that a poisonous quality has been supposed to be necessarily attached to every bitter. I cannot help thinking, that this theory has been the result of a very limited view of the subject of bitters, and of their effects. The e\ il effects of the Portland powder, and other similar articles, in gouty affections, have, I am persuaded, been greatly exaggerated by Dr. Cullen*, and some other writers: and the real bad effects of these articles must, perhaps, be ascribed to the long-continued repetition of a stimulant powder, by which the energies of the system are wasted, and irregularities occasioned in the circulation of the blood. The Zanthorhiza, so far as we are enabled to inves- tigate its properties, appears to be one of the most pure and unmixed bitters. The addition of the sulphat of iron to an infusion of the bark of the root in boiling water, did not produce the least perceptible change in the colour of the infusion, even when the two articles were suffered to stand for a considerable time, after the addition. In this respect, as well as in others, it appears to make a very no..;./ approach to the Columbo. But I am inclined to think, that the Zanthorhiza is the least pure of the twot. To the saliva, the bark, when it is chewed, commu- nicates the most beautiful yellow colour. The infusion in hot water is also very fine. If its colour could be fixed, the Zanthorhiza would be one of the most im- portant of all the yellow plants tinctoria with which %we are acquainted. * A Treatise of the Materia Medica. Vol. II. p. 64, 65, 66. f See Elements of Botany, 8cc. Explanation of the Plates. Page 26. ( 13 ) Hitherto, the Zimthorhizahas been but little em- ployed in practice. Some experiments have, however, been iiv«l: with it*, and these are calculated to show, that it may be advantageously employed, and that it ou-ht to have a place in the shops. Although less pure than Columbo, 1 believe it is, in certain cases, to be pre- ferred to that celebrated bitter. Professor Woodhouse, who seems to have paid more attention to this vegetable than any odier person, has used it, with very good effect, in several of those cases in which the bitter medicines are proper. For a correct representation of the Zanthorhiza, see die Medical Repository, already referred to, and also, my Elements of Botany\. In the First Part of these Collcctions%, I have made mention of the Hydrastis Canadensis, commonly called " Yellow-root." This is a very common vegetable in various parts of the United-States; particularly in the rich soil adjacent to the Ohio and its branches, m the western parts of Pennsylvania and Virginia; and in Ken- tucky. The root of this plant is a very powerful bitter: perhaps not less so than that of the Zanthorhiza. To the taste, however, it is unquestionably more pungent than the Zanthorhiza. When held between the lips, it even excites a very considerable sense of pungent heat. The dried root has a strong and virose smell, very simi- lar to that of the Zanthorhiza, but stronger. The infu- sion in hot water, smells very like the infusion of Zantnor- hiza. The two infusions taste a good deal alike. * See Medical Repository. Vol. v. No. II. f Plate XII. | Page 9. See, also, Elements of Botany, fcc. Part Third, p. 70. ( 14 ) On adding a solution of the sulphat of iron to an infu- sion of the root of the Hydrastis, I was not able to discover the least indication of astringency. This further shows the affinity of the two plants to each other. I may add, that although they do-not both belong to the same artificial subdivision in the sexual system, they are both near relations in a family of Natures making. They be- long to De Jussieu's order Ranunculaceee, which may be considered as a pretty natural assortment of vegetables. The Hydrastis is a popular remedy in some parts of the United-States. A spirituous infusion of the root is employed, as a tonic bitter, in the western parts of Penn- sylvania, &c. and there can be little doubt, that both in this and in other shapes, our medicine may be used with much advantage. An infusion of the root, in cold water, is also employed as a wash, in inflammations of the eyes. In these cases, it is well known, that some of the bitter medicines, such as ox-gall, fish-gall, and others, have long maintained some character; and some of them, I be- lieve, are entitled to the praises which have been bestowed upon them, The root of the Hydrastis supplies us with one of the most brilliant yellow colours, with which we are ac- quainted. When it shall be subjected to proper experi- ments, I doubt not, it will be found a most valuable die- plant, and well worthy of a place in the manufacturing houses. The" Gentiana lutea, or common Gentian of the shops, is said to be a native of the United-States*. This, per- * Kalm. ( 15 ) haps, is doubtful. But it is certain, that several of the indigenous species of this genus are intense and pretty pure bitters, but little, if at all, inferior to the species just mentioned*. The Gentiana Centauriumf, or Lesser Centory, is found native within the limits of the United-States. This, however, is not the plant which is called Cento- ry, or " Centry," in Philadelphia, &c, where it is so commonly employed both by physicians, and as a do- mestic remedy in almost every family. > The Centory to which I allude is the Chironia an- gularis of Linnaeus. This is a beautiful annual plant, and grows abundantly in many parts of the United- States, as in New-York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, &,c« Every part of the plant is intensely bitter, in which re- spect it differs from the Gentiana Centaurium, the blos- soms of which are nearly insipid^. In other respects, it is closely allied to the Lesser Centory, the proper- ties of which are well known, and established by the experience of physicians, for many hundred years. In no respect, that I can perceive, is the Chironia inferior, as a bitter, to the Centaurium. As a much more 'com- mon plant than this latter, it may, wjthout any injury to our patients, supersede its use in the practice of Ameri- can physicians, most of whom, if I do not mistake, have supposed, while they were employing the Chironi- ca angularis, that they were using the Centaurium, of the European writers on the Materia Medica. Tiu- Chi- * See Collections, &c. Part First, page 15. f It is the Chironia Centaurium of Curtis, Withering, Smith, a-.l other botanists. \ Lewis. ( 16 ) ronia is mentioned by Dr. Schoepf, who speaks of it as aromatic and bitter, and mentions the infusion as being useful in fevers*. Indeed, I believe that no bitter has been more generally prescribed in the United-States, in febrile and other affections, than this common Ameri- can plant, especially since the memorable year 1793, when it was much employed in certain stages of yellow- fever ; and in which I believe it was very often used with much benefit. The Frasera Caroliniensis of Walterf (Frasera Wal- teri of MichauxJ) is nearly allied, in botanical habit, to the genus Gentiana. This plant, which is a native of the states of New-York, Carolina, &c, is furnished with a large tuberous root, of a yellow colour, which promises to be little inferior, as a bitter, to the Gentian of the shops, and for which, I suspect, it has sometimes been mis- taken. I cannot conclude this part of the subject of the To- nics, without observing, that the countries of the United- States are so rich in bitter vegetables, that there can be no necessity for having recourse to the foreign articles of this class ; especially when such articles are only to be procured at a high price : a circumstance which not un- frequently becomes a source of the adulteration of medicines, in this and in other countries. * * * * * * * * * Materia Medica Americana, &c. p. 27. Schoepf calls the plant, Wild- Succory. t Flora Caroliniana, &c. p. 87", 88. f Flora Boreali-Americana, &c. Tom. i. p. 96, 97- ( 17 ) In the First Part of this work, I made some mention of two American species of Cornel, or Dog-wood, the Cor- nus florida and Cornus sericea*. Since the publica- tion of that part, these two vegetables have engaged the attention of an ingenious graduate in the university of Pennsylvania, Dr. John M. Walker, to whom we are in- debted for much interesting information concerning thcmf. An analysis of the dissertation would not, I pre- sume, be uninteresting to my readers. But I cannot undertake the task in this place. I think it a duty, how- ever, to mention some of the author's experiments and observations. The taste of the barks of the two Cornels, and that of the Peruvian bark, is nearly similar, " though some- " what more bitter and astringent in the Corni than the " bark : the former when retained in the mouth some- " time, only impart to the tongue these two tastes, " along with a pleasant warmth ; whereas when the " latter is retained the same length of time, along with " this bitterness and astringency, it imparts an indeserib- " able taste, which will be easily recognized by every " one who has taken the bark." Dr. Walker's experiments show, " that the Cor- " nus florida and sericea, and the Peruvian bark, pos* " sess the same ingredients, that is gum, mucilage, " and extract, which last contains the tannin and gallic " acid, though in different proportions. The Florida " possesses most of the gum, mucilage, and extract; " the Sericea the next, which appears to be an interme- * See pages 11,12, 45. t An Experimental Inquiry into the similarity in virtue between the Cornui Florida and Sericea, and the Cinchona officiudii of Linn*u8, &c te. Phriadd phia : 1803. ( 18 ) " diate between the Florida and Peruvian Bark ; while " the latter possesses most of the resin. Their virtues " appear equally similar in their residence. The ex- " tract and resin possess all their active virtues. The '* extract appears to possess all their tonic power. The " resin, when perfectly separated from the extract, ap- " pears to be purely stimulant*." Our author has established the stimulant power of the two Cornels, by actual experiments upon the healthy sys- tem. By the use of these medicines, the pulse was often rendered fuller and stronger, and always quiekerf. The bark of the Cornus sericea forms a beautiful tincture with proof spirits. This is deserving of a place in the shops., as are, also the powdered barks of both species. I can add but little, from my own experience, con- eerning the application of these two species of Cornus to the cure of diseases. I believe, however, that it may, with entire safety, be asserted, that as yet we have not discovered within the limits of the United-States, any vegetables which have been found so effectually to answer the purpose of the Peruvian bark, in the management of intermittent fevers, as the Cornus florida and Cornus sericea. In an intermittent fever, which prevailed in West- New-Jersey, about twenty-four years ago, the bark of the Cornus florida was found more useful than the Pe- * An Experimental Inquiry, &c. page 20. f Ibid, page 46. ( 19 ) ruvian bark. It was used in the shape of a decoction*. I must candidly confess, however, that I have heard of more instances of the failure of diis Cornel than of the Peruvian bark. But has any vegetable so completely prevented the recurrence of the paroxysms of intermit- tents as the last mentioned one ? In the mineral kingdom, indeed, we have discovered an inestimable substitute for the bark : I mean Arsenic. This, particularly I think, when it is given in substancef, will more certainly cure the intermittent than any vegetable yet known,* the Peru- vian bark excepted. But I am inclined to think, that relapses are more common after the employment of arse- nic than after that of the bark. Besides, Arsenic CANNOT ALWAYS BE USED WITH ENTIRE SAFE- TY. In illustration of this position, I may here ob- serve, that I myself have seen three cases of very general oedema of the face and limbs (especially the former) evidently induced by arsenic. Two of the sub- * From the information of my learned friend, the Reverend Dr. Nicholas Collin, of Philadelphia. f I have, for several years, employed the oxyd of arsenic in substance, in preference to Dr. Fowler's solution. I think it a much more certain medi- cine than the solution. I commonly give it in combination with opium. One grain of the arsenic is united to four or eight grains of opium, and made into a mass with conserve of roses, or honey, or soap. This is divided into sixteen pills of which I direct the patient (an adult) to take two or three, at different periods, in the course of the day and night, especially during the apyrexia. Such are the powers of this medicine, that two grains of it are often sufficient to cure an intermittent, that has continued for weeks ! Sometimes, I use larger doses • but in a majority of the cases that have come under my notice, I have found three sixteenths of a grain of arsenic sufficient for the period of twenty- four hours As children are, with difficulty, prevailed upon to take the medi- cine in the shape of a pill. 1 rub down the arsenic with honey or melas.es and water, and sometimes with a portion of gum-arabic. In 'his form, «t » very conveniently given to children, by drops ; and the quantity of the m.nera. ,n each dos- mavbe estimated with considerable accuracy.-In the cure of ,n- ermi«ents, does arsenic operate by virtue of its tonic power '-The Peruvnn bark sometimes cures intermittens that have resisted the powers of arsemc. ( 20 ) jects were children, and the third an adult. They all . recovered, without experiencing any other inconvenience from the medicine. I have also seen a case of temporary paralysis (or perhaps rather extreme debility) of the limbs induced by the medicine, in a patient labouring under an obstinate intermittent. These notices may, possibly, be of some use to the very young and inex- perienced practitioner, for whom principally they are thus candidly mentioned. The spirituous tincture of the bark of the Cornus se- ricea, already mentioned, has been advantageously used in the latter stage of diarrhoea, unaccompanied with fever.* I h a v e already made mention of the Magnolia glauca. f The bark of this tree is celebrated among the Western Indians, as a remedy in rheumatism, and in fevers. The tree grows, in great profusion, upon the river Kan- haway, whither the Indians resort for the purpose of pro- curing the bark, which they cany off, in great abundance. Employed in the shape of a decoction, it " proves gently cathartic and ultimately sudorific." A cold in- fusion and a tincture of the bark are much used in inter- mittents. " In one case of inflammatory rheumatism it " seemed to produce considerable effect and relief, as a " sudorific, after blood-letting had been premised." It is known by the names of Elk-Bark and Indian Bark J. From the former name, I presume the bark is eaten by the American Elk, or Cervus Wapiti. We know it is ea- ten by the Beaver : hence one of the English names of this tree, viz. Beaver-tree. * From the information of Dr. Amos Gregg, jun. f See Part First, pages 13, 14. $ From the information of my friend, Charles Everett, M. D. of Milton, Albemarle-County, Virginia. ( 21 ) For further information concerning the medical and other properties of this vegetable, I refer the reader to Dr. Thomas D. Price's Inaugural Dissertation on the Magnolia Glauca, or Common White Laurel-tree*. The bark of thePrunus Virginiana (Cerasus Virgini- ana of Miehaux), which 1 have mentioned in the First Part of these Collections^, is considerably bitter and as- tringent. These qualities are accompanied with some aromatic warmth. It has been justly observed, that " there is a great similarity between the flavour of this " bark, and the skin enclosing the kernels of peach *' stones J." This bark also possesses an evident nar- cotic quality, to which it is highly probable, that some of the useful qualities of the medicine, in certain cases, must be ascribed. It is manifestly stimulant. The bark of the root seems to be more powerful than that of the trunk. My own experience with this vegetable bis been inconsiderable. The experience and observations of others, however, lead me to believe, that it is a medicine well worthy of the notice of physicians. In some parts of the United-States, the bark has been much employed in intermittents, in which it is said to have been found as efficacious as the Peruvian bark. This I am not wil- ling to believe. But as it is a durable tonic, there is lit- tle reason to doubt, independently on actual observations, that it is deserving of attention in this common disease. The bark has also been found useful in certain cases of dyspepsia, in consumption of the lungs, andjn lum- • Philadelphia: 1802. f See pages n and 34. \ Dr. Morris. ( 22 ) bar abscess, attended with hectic fever, and colliquative sweats. Of its use in this latter case, we have an in- stance in the Medical Repository*. The patient made use of a decoction of the bark. It would be easy to mention many other diseases in which this medicine has been advantageously employed. I have already observed!, that the leaves of this tree are poisonous to certain animals. Dr. Morris has shown, that the distilled water of the leaves is a powerful poison to different species of animals, such as kittens, pigeons, &c. About a tea-spoonful of the water killed a "pi- geon fully fledged," in thirty-two minutes. This gentie- man was obliged to make his experiments upon the young and imperfectly-expanded leaves of the tree. The adult leaves are doubtless more powerful. Experiments would seem to showr, that the deleterious principle of the leaves is of a very volatile nature\. Under this head of tonics, I may, with some proprie- ty, take notice of the Eupatorium perfoliatum. I am sensible, however, that this vegetable might be more ad- vantageously treated of under several different heads, such as those of Emetics, Sudorifics, &c, than under one individual head. But as a tonic quality is, unquestiona- bly, attached to this plant, and as I am not, in these Col- lections, particularly studious of method, I shall bring together all I have to offer concerning the Eupatorium, under one point of view. Of this very common plant in almost every part of the United States, I have made * Vol. v. No. m. f Part First, page n. \ See an Inaugural Dissertation on the Primus Virginiana, &c. &c. By Charles Morris, of Virginia. Philadelphia: 1802.- ( 23 ) mention in the First Part of these Collections*. It is the Eu- patorium connatum of Miehaux. Besides the provincial or common English names which have already been men- tioned, it is known by the following appellations: viz. Thorough-stem, Cross-wort, Bone-set, and Indian-Sage. The first of these names has been imposed upon it from the peculiar structure of the leaves, which are opposite, and appear as though the stem was thrust through them. It has received the name of Cross-wort, by w hich it is known in many parts of Virginia, from the position of the leaves, each pair of which (in general) take their origin from opposite sides'of the stem, so that they cross each other nearly at right angles. I am more at a loss to refer the word Bone-set to its real origin : but I pre- sume the plant received this name, from the great relief which, on many occasions, it has been known to afford to persons labouring under violent remitting and other fe- vers, in which the bones are greatly pained. The re- semblance of the leaves of this plant to those of the Com- mon Sage (Salvia officinalis) was, long ago, remarked by the botanistsf. Hence the name Indian-Sage, by which this Eupatorium is known in some parts of Penn- sylvania. We have seen, that it is one of the remedies of the Indians J. I have already hinted at the obvious properties of the Eupatorium, and have observed, that it has been used in intermittents, and other fevers^. I am now to re- mark, in consequence of subsequent inquiries, that the • See pages 27, 52, 53. + Particularly by Plukenet, who thus defines the plant: " Eupatoriuw Virginianum, SahU foliis longissimis acuminatis, perfoliatum. Aim. Bpt 140. t. 86. f. 6. \ Part First, p. 27, 52, 53. § Part First, p. 27, 53. ( 24 ) plant has been exhibited, with uncommon advantage, in these affections. In simple intermittcnts, admitting of distinct intermissions, a decoction,of the whole plant, or the leaves in powder, have, on many occasions, proved effectual in preventing the recurrence of paroxysms. I now speak of the medicine, as exhibited during the time of intermission. But the vegetable, especially in the form of a decoction^ has often been given during the time of the hot stage, and I am in possession of a large portion of testimony in favour of its efficacy when thus employed. Not only in intermittcnts, but likewise in remittents, and in die malignant yellow-fever, as it has prevailed in Philadelphia, &c, has our plant been used, with much advantage. When exhibited in the form of a warm decoction, it has seemed to prove peculiarly bene- ficial, especially by exciting a copious perspiration. The effect of the medicine, in inducing this evacuation, constitutes one of its most valuable properties, and has procured to it an appellation (that of the " vegetable an- timony") to which, I believe, it is as well entitled as many other vegetables, which might be mentioned. But I greatly doubt if the sudorific effect of this plant, when unassisted by heat, can be compared to that of the Polygala Senega, and several other American plants. It often proves emetic: but this operation, which on many occasions, is not the least useful of its properties, may be prevented by a proper attention to the medicine. In some parts of the United-States, it is exhibited in inter- mittents, chiefly with a view to its emetic effect.- The Eupatorium has been used in other cases. It is said to have been found very useful in a peculiar and distressing affection of the herpetic kind, which was formerly very common in Virginia, and there known by the name of the " James-river Ringworm;" because it ( 25 ) •as especially prevalent among the inhabitants residing upon the upper streams of James-River. This disease was particular!} disposed to affect young men. It at- tacked the thighs, the scrotum, and especially the parts immediately adjacent to the anus. It extended its ra- vages into the rectum, and perhaps much further. It was, at all times, a disgusting and troublesome disease, though it rarely proved mortal. Mr. Jefferson* informed me, in 1802, that within the period of his remembrance, this herpes was extreme- ly common in Virginia, and that it had gradually disap- peared, or become less common, from about the timet that the Warm and Hot Springs, in the county of Bath, in Virginia, had been better known, and more frequented. He ascribed the disappearance of the affection to the use of these waters; the temperature of the former of which is about 98° : that of the latter 106°, of Faren- heit's thermometer. In this affection, the Eupatorium perfoliatum has often been found very beneficial, as I have been inform- ed by a respectable physician^ in Virginia. The pa- tient drank a decoction of the plant, and continued the use of it for a considerable time. It sometimes puk d : it, no doubt, purged; and, in all probability, it operated as a sudorific. But by what quality it more es- pecially operated, in curing the disease, I am unable to say. The fact may, I believe, be depended upon. * The President of the United-States. t These waters were certainly known at let as early as 1759 or 17G0. But I believe they did not begin to be frequented, by any constable number of persons, until some years after. The James-river Ringworm was very pre- valent about the year 1766. t Dr. Thomas Knox, 6f Culpeper. * D ( 26 ) It may, perhaps, serve to increase our confidence in the powers ascribed'to the Eupatorium perfoliatum as a remedy for herpes, to observe, that the Aya-Pana, which of late has excited so much attention, is a species of this vast family of plants, and that italso has been celebrated as a remedy in certain affections, somewhat allied to herpes*. I close this article by observing, that every part of the Eupatorium perfoliatum may be advantageously employed in practice. I believe, from my own observa- tions, that the flowers possess the greatest portion of the activity of the plant; and they ought to be kept in the shops. As a tonic bitter, I deem them superior to the flowers of Camomile, (Anthemis nobilis), for which they might be substituted, on many occasions. Section III. Stimulants, or Incitants. $ I. General Stimulants. Kalmia latifoliat- The powdered leaves of this ve- getable have been used, with much success, in some cases of mtermittentsj. A saturated tincture, prepared from the leaves with a proof spirit, is an active medicine, * See Mr. Tilloch's valuable Philosophical Magazine, &c. vol. xiii. p. 376, &c. &c. f See Part First, p. 18, 48. \ Dr. Amos Gregg, jun. ( 27 ) and perhaps worthy of a place in the shops*. For some interesting information concerning the powers of this species of Kalmia, and also those of Kalmia angustifo- lia, or Narrow-leaved Kalmia, commonly called Lamb- kill, &c, I beg leave to refer the reader to Dr. George G. Thomas's Inaugural Dissertation concerning these plants, published at Philadelphia, in 1802. Laurus Sassafras. In the Fin.t Part of this work, I have made mention of the oil of this vegetable, and have hinted at its affinity to camphort- The resem- blance between the two articles is further evinced by this circumstance, that the oil of Sassafras, when externally applied to the body in rheumatic and gouty affections, is remarkable for its power of shifting the pain from its original seat; but not always to the advantage of the pa- tient. Like camphor, therefore, it ought ever to be used, in such affections, with great caution. I believe, however, that it is a medicine well adapted to many cases of rheumatism, in its chronic stage ; though even here it may prove injurious. The Phytolacca decandra, well known by the names of Poke, Garget, American Nightshade, 8cc, is one of the most common North-American plants. It is, cer- tainly, a plant of great activity, though the young shoots, when boiled, may be eaten with impunity, and are justly deemed a great delicacy. By many, they are preferred to the finest asparagus. Some of the medicinal powers of this plant have long been known*. The ripe berries, infused in brandy, * A few drops of this tincture, poured upon the body of a large and vigor- ous rattle-snake, in my possession, killed the reptile in a very short ume. It violently affected the animal, almost instantaneously. f Pages 19, 20. I See the writings of Kalm, Vogel, Hallcr. Allioni. Schoepf, and others. ( 28 ) or wine, especially the former, are a popular remedy for rheumatism, in many parts of the United-States. This tincture of Poke (Tinctura Phytolacca J is certainly a valuable medicine in cases of chronic rheumatism, and other similar affections. Like the volatile tincture of gum Guaiacum, it has sometimes done injury ; as might indeed be expected from an active medicine, in the hands of the injudicious or ignorant. It may, I believe, be safely exhibited in most of the cases of rheumatism, in which the Guaiacum has been used with safety and ad- vantage. In the rheumatic affections, which frequently succeed, to the venereal disease, it seems to be a more valuable medicine than the Guaiacum, and may be ad- vantageously employed, especially along with calomel, or other preparations of mercury. I have employed the ^ ripe juice of the berries, inspissated to the state of an ex- tract, in some cases of scrophula. The juice, in the same state, has, I am informed, been advantageously employed in cases of cancerous ulcers. These ulcers were dressed with the extract, spread upon linen, or upon the leaf of the plant. But the juice of the leaves, applied in the same manner, is said to have been found more efficacious. I am inclined to repose some credit in the testimonies which I have collected concerning the utility of the extract of Poke, in the cases just men- tioned. Th e reader may consult, with advantage, An Inau- gural Botanico-Medical Dissertation on the Phytolacca De- candra of Linnaus. By Benjamin Shultz*. As a re- pository of facts concerning the Phytolacca, this disser- tation is valuable, and worthy of attention. But the subject is still, in a great measure, a new one. # Philadelphia: 1795. ( 29 ) Arum triphyllum*. The recent root of this plant boiled in milk, so as to communicate to the milk a strong impregnation of the peculiar acrimony of the plant, lias been advantageously employed in cases of consumption of the lungs. I have heard of one case (that of a negro man in Virginia) who was completely cured of a pulmo- nary consumption by continuing to take, for a considera- ble time, milk in which the root of the Arum had been boiled. It would certainly be worth trying this simple prescription in some cases of a disease which so generally baffles the powers of all our medicines, and the skill of the best physicians. I am not ignorant, that within the period of a very few years, the disease of consumption has been supposed to be deprived of some of its terrors : but I must add, with real regret, that notwithstanding the high encomiums which have been bestowed upon the Digitalis as a remedy for this disease, by some distin- guished medical philosophers, and practitionerst, I have employed this vegetable in a considerable number of cases of consumption, and, upon the whole, with very inconsiderable permanent advantage. In one case, in- deed, it seemed to perform a cure of what I deemed genu- ine phthisis : in several other cases, it evidently and re- markably affected the pulse, and moderated the urgency of the symptoms ; but the patients ultimately fell vic- tims to the disease.- Some of the patients to whorjr* I exhibited the Digitalis were so far advanced in the dis- ease, that little benefit could have been expected from medicine of any kind : but others of them again were in the earlier stages of the disease, and consequently in a situation that seemed to admit of permanent relief, from this or from other medicines. Yet, with the exception of the case already hinted at, I have not been able to effect a • Part FiTst, p. 21, 49, 50. f Mr. Saunders, Dr. Thomas Beddoes, Dr. N. Drake, &c. &c. ( 30 ) single cure by means of Digitalis. I am even inclined to think, that I have, in several instances*, more conside- rably arrested the progress of phthisis pulmonalis by means of emetics (particularly the sulphat of zinc, ex- hibited in the manner recommended by Dr. Moseleyt) than by Digitalis. Candour compells me to add, that my own experience with the Digitalis in consumption has been less than that of several other practitioners in Philadelphia, some of whom entertain a more favoura- ble opinion of the medicine, as a remedy for consump- tion, than I do. Dr. Storck, of Vienna, has called the attention of physicians to a species of Clematis, or Virgin's-Bower, the Clematis rectaj. This is a very acrid and active plant, which Storck recommended in cancerous, vene- real and other malignant ulcers, and also in obstinate pains of the head, and bones, and in other diseases. An infusion of the flowers or leaves, and an extract of the plant were used internally. The powder was sprin- kled upon the ulcers, where it was found to act as an ex- cellent escharotic and detergent. I do not know that the Clematis recta is a native of any part of America. I have been led to mention the plant in this place, because the United-States afford us some species of the same genus, which, from a few experi- ments that I have made with them, promise to be use- ful in medicine. The species which I have more parti- cularly attended to, are Clematis crispa, and Clematis Viorna. The leaves of these species are extremely * Especially in the Pennsylvania Hospital, in the summer of 1803. t A Treatise upon Tropical Diseases, &c. &c. p. 541, &c. London: i792.. | Upright Virgin's-Bower. Storck calls the plant Flammula Jovis. It is a native of Austria, Hungary, Switzerland, and France. ( 31 ) acrid, and may be found useful in chronic rheumatism, palsy, old ulcers; and, in fine, in all the diseases in which Storck found the Clematis recta useful*. As they are very active plants, it is necessary to use them in small doses. I have received some obscure information con- cerning the employment of one of the species (I think C. crispa), in Virginia, as a remedy in some particular affections. Dr. Schoepf has made no mention of these plants, but has proposed the employment of Clematis Virgini- ana, as a substitute for Clematis rectat- The C. Vir- giniana is a much more feeble plant than either of the three other species which have been mentioned. § II. Topical Stimulants. The Pyrola umbellata, already mentioned, may be noticed under this head. The bruised leaves of this plant, when externally applied, sometimes induce red- ness, vesication and desquamation ■ of the skin. But this is by no means a constant operation of the vegetable ; and, therefore, it does not seem particularly worthy of our attention, in this point of view. Rhus radicansj. The following observations, rela- live to the deleterious property of this common plant, * See Elements of Botany, &c. Part Third, p. 70. f Materia Medica Americana, &c. Praefatio. p. xiii. | See Part First, p. 23, 50, 51, 52. ( 32 ) will not, I hope, be unacceptable to those who are in- terested in a knowledge of its natural history. The person w ho is the subject of the observations, has, for many years, been severely affected by the plant; and although main other persons are similarly affected, it is not often, I believe, that the progress of the poison is marked with minute attention in those who are injured by it. On the eighth day of July, 1795, I applied two or three drops of the milky juice whilst it issued from the common foot-stalk of the leaves of the Rhus radicans, to the risband of my shirt. These leaves, immediately before, had been torn from the stalk of the plant, by a friend of mine*. My object, in applying the juice, was to determine, in what length of time it would assume the black hue. In a few minutes, I found that the linen was stained black, and in a short time after this, I ob- served that the juice had penetrated through the risband, and that it had communicated a dark brown or blackish colour to that portion of the epidermis which was imme- diately under it. The day was unusually warm, and I went into the water, to bathe. In the evening, I felt a considerable itching of my wrist, and the following morning observed, that there were upon it a number of extremely minute vesicles, which contained a fluid more or less limpid, or transparent. The itching increased hourly : the wrist and the middle of the fore-arm began to swell, and the vesicles extended themselves rapidly, chiefly upwards, towards the elbow, and partly down- wards, along the lower part of the wrist, and upon the fingers. * I was not myself within the sphere of the action of the plant, which I was careful to avoid, well knowing, from long experience, its injurious effect! upon me. ( 33 ) Meanwhile, vesicles accompanied with, and pre- ceded by, itching more or less troublesome, made their appearance, upon various other parts of the body. The face was universally sprinkled with them. But these were extremely small, the fluid which they con- tained, was alwrays very limpid, and without any ap- plication, except that of cold water every morning, they entirely disappeared in two or three days. About the seventh or eighth day, the itching, the inflammation, and the spread of the vesicles appeared to be nearly at their height. At this period, and for some days afterwards, the greater part of the fore-arm, and about one third of the arm were swelled to nearly twice the natural thickness ; the itching was intolerable^ and the vesicles, in general, were no longer filled with a limpid fluid, but contained a thick matter, or pus, very similar to that of small-pox, and strongly ad- hering to the linen. On the ninth day, I perceived a swelling in the axilla- ry gland of the right arm, which was that to which the lacteous juice was applied, and which was chiefly affected. The swelling rapidly encreased, until it became of the size of a hen's egg, and on the second day from ifs ap- pearance, it had almost entirely evanished. From the period that the swelling was at its height, to its entire disappearance, the itching was almost univer- sal, and much more insupportable than it was before. I attributed this itching to the influence of the poison, -which, I suppose, was conveyed into the system, from the time that the axillary gland began to swell and in- flame. Nevertheless, I could not discover that there was, E ( 34 ) in consequence of this supposed absorption of the poison, any increase of the number of vesicles upon the surface of the body. In fifteen days,from the time that the poison was first applied to my arm, all the disagreeable symptoms had ceased ; the vesicles had almost entirely disappeared ; a desquamation of the effected parts had taken place, and a new epidermis had been formed. From the foregoing statement, it must appear evi- dent, that to some constitutions the milk-like juice of the Rhus radicans is capable of producing very disagree- able effects. It must not, however, be imagined that these effects are equally disagreeable to all constitutions ; and it is certain that there are many persons who are not at all affected by this plant. It has been asserted, that persons of the most irritable habits of body are the most liable to be effected by the Rhus radicans, and by some other species of the same genus. I do not intend to oppose myself as an excep- tion to this position ; but from a recollection of the con- stitutions of several persons to whom this poison has been applied, I have very little hesitation in asserting, that the susceptibility of receiving its influence is by no means proportional to the degree of irritability, whether muscular or mental, of the habit. It may, I believe, be asserted with much more truth, that the susceptibility of receiving the influence of the poison of the Rhus radi- cans is somewhat proportional to the delicacy and thin- ness of the epidermis and skin. Hence, no doubt, it is that females are more liable to be poisoned by this plant than males ; that the face is seldom so much affected by it as the arms, the genitals, and most other parts of the ( 35 ) body that are protected from the constant influence of the air; and that young persons are more frequently poison- ed than those who have arrived at the age of manhood, or who have passed to the term of older rfge. I have said, that there are many persons who are not, in the least, affected by the poison of the Rhus radicans, externally applied. This is an undoubted fact. Some of these persons after expressing the juice of the plantj will rub it upon their arms, and othcrparts of their bodies, without experiencing the smallest injurious effect. I am acquainted with twro gentlemen, who find no ill effects from chewing, for a considerable time, the recent leaves of this plant. It deserves to be mentioned, that one of the gentlemen, I allude to, is liable to be considerably in- jured by the effluvia of the Rhus radicans, when applied to the external surface of his body. It may not be improper to observe, in this place, that several other native plants besides the species of Rhus, and the Pyrola umbellata, induce, in certain persons, a vesicular state of the skin. The flowers of the Kalmia latifolia, or Broad-leaved Laurel, have been known to do this in some persons. I knew an elderly lady who was affected, in the same way, by the Nerium Oleander, or Common- Oleander, or Rosebay. But this last is not an American vegetable. A decoction of the bark of the Rhus radicans has been used, with seeming advantage, in some cases of consumption of the lungs, in different parts of Pennsyl- vania. A gentleman of my acquaintance (who has since fallen a victim to the disease) informed me, that he had certainly found much benefit from this decoction in a pulmonary affection, complicated with fistula in ano* ( 36 ) A decoction of the root of the plant is said to have been advantageously employed in cases of asthma. A late writer, M. du Fresnoi, strongly recommends the Rhus radicans, in the treatment of herpetic affections, and in paralysis. In the first of these cases, he employed the infusion and the distilled water of the leaves of the plant. He relates seven cases, which seem to establish, unequivocally, the efficacy of these preparations in the affections which I have mentioned. He says he cured five cases of paralysis by the use of the plant*. Dr. Alderson informs us, that he has used the Rhus Toxico- dendron, with much benefit, in the same disease^ The bark of the Rhus glabrum, or Smooth Pennsylva- nia SumachJ, boiled in milk, has been recommended as a remedy for chronic ulcers; and, I am informed, has been found very useful. The ulcers are often washed with the decoction. Section IV. Sialagoga. I h a v e nothing additional to say under the head of par- ticular Errhines, and therefore proceed to the section of Sialagoga, or Salivating medicines. Between these and the EiThines, there is a very great affinity; as * Des proprietes de la plante, appellee, Rhus radicans ; de son utilite, 8tc. &c. A Leipsic : 1788. I have not seen the original work. f An Essay on the Rhus Toxicodendron, or Pubescent Poison-Oak, or Sumach, &c. By John Alderson, M. D. Hull: 1796: | Part First, p. 51. ( 37 ) is evinced by this circumstance, that several articles of the materia medica, both minerals and vegetables, very frequently act by increasing the secretion by the nose, and also that by the salivary glands. This is remarkably the case with respect to the sulphat of mercury, or tur- pith-mineral; and, in one instance, I think I have seen a salivation decidedly induced by the use of the tuqrith mineral, in combination with tobacco, that had been used, for some weeks, as an errhine. This will the more rea- - dily be admitted as a fact, when we read, that a very ex- tensive salivation of long continuance, has been apparent* ly induced by an irritation applied to the parotid gland, through the medium of the meatus auditorius. The irri- tating substance was a portion of fetid wool*. It w ould be an easy task to cumulate facts to prove, that " the " number of salivating medicines is much greater than " has been commonly imaginedt." Polygala Senega, or Seneca Snake-root!. My in- genious pupil, Dr. Thomas Walmsley has lately commu- nicated to me an additional instance of the salivating power of this active vegetable. The patient (a lady aged about ........years) had taken, for some time, a decoction of the Seneca, and was thrown into a profuse ptyalism, which continued for a considerable time. It is a well-ascertained fact, that the disease of tetanus has often been induced by different poisonous vegetables : by Datura Stramonium. Hyoscyamus albus, or White-Henbane, not to mention several others. The • See Medical Transactions, published by the College of physicians in Low- don, vol. II. p- 34, &c. f See Part First, p. 24. J See Part First, p. 95. ( 38 ) same disease is likewise sometimes induced by the heal- thy or natural poisons of certain animals. I have collected two wrell-authenticated instances of the production of this disease, by the bites of venemous serpents, in the United-States. One of the patients died. The teta- nus did not come on until six or seven days after she was bitten. The other recovered from the disease, by the use of large doses of the Seneca, boiled in milk*. I know not whether this instance of success should en- courageiis to hope, that the Seneca might be given, with advantage, in those cases of tetanus which are the con- sequence of wounds, in different parts of the body. I fear that our vegetable, though by no means a feeble one, will be found unequal to the cure of this terrible disease. The Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis and Zanthoxylum fraxinifolium are both mentioned in the First Part of these Collections^. They are both vegetables endued with very active powers. The bark promises to be a very useful medicine in cases of paralytic affections of the tongue, or of the muscles concerned in deglutition : and in such cases, when held in the mouth, they have been employed with advantage J. They are more active than Mezereon (Daphne Mezereum), which both Dr, Withering^ and myself have employed, with a good ef- fect, in the same cases. It might, perhaps, be worth trying the Zanthoxyla, as masticatories, in some cases of stammering. In some parts of Virginia, the berries of Zanthoxy- lum fraxinifolium are much esteemed as a remedy in * See Elements of Botany, &c. Part Third, p. 105. f See p. 25, 52. \ By Dr. Tucker Harris, of Charleston, South-Carolina. § A Systematic Arrangement, &c. vol. II. p. 370. ( 39 ) violent cholicy affections. A spirituous infusion of the berries is employed. They are known by the name of " Suter's-berries." For some interesting notices concerning the use of the bark of Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis, in rheumatic affections, in ulcers, &c. &c. &c, I refer the reader to different communications, in the Memoirs of the Medical Society of London*, and other periodical publications. Section V. Emetics. Spirjea trifoliatat* This is sometimes very injudi- ciously employed by the country-people, insomuch that they are obliged to apply for medical aid to remove the delibity induced by the large doses of the root which they employ. " It is said, that there grows in the state " of Kentucky, another species, which is still more " valuable, as an emetic, than the S. trifoliataj." The emetic power of the Sanguinaria Canadensis, of which I have taken notice in the former part of this work§, has been fully established by the experiments of Dr. Downey, in his ingenious essay upon this plant. The " most prominent effect" of the medicine is to in- duce vomiting, even when it is exhibited in moderate doses. " When taken in the dose of fifteen or twenty " grains," it exerts powerful emetic qualities. " But " in consequence of the irritation, which is produced in * Vol. V. f Part First, p. 26. \ Elements of Botany, &c. Part III. p. 89. § Page2r. ( 40 J " the fauces, it is probable, that in the form of a pow. " der, it will never come into general use. This in- " convenience may, however, be obviated, by giving 1 * it in form of a decoction or extract.'' When managed with care, it is deemed " but little inferior to the ipe- " cacuanha, either in the certainty or speediness of " its operation*. The powder of the root may be given " as an emetic for an adult, in the dose of fifteen or " twenty grains, made into pills, otherwise a consider- " able irritation will be produced in the fauces in taking " itf-" Hitherto, the Sanguinaria has been but little em- ployed by the regular practitioners. It promises, how- ever, to be an useful medicine, particularly on the foun- dation of its emetic and expectorant effects, in cases of eynanche maligna, or ulcerous sore-throat, in cynanche trachealis, or hives, and other similar affections. Its properties seem to be considerably allied to those of the Seneca Snake-root, which has been so beneficially em- ployed in the same casesj. I have received an account of its having been employed, in the shape of a decoc- tion, with very evident good effect, in the case of that particular form of cynanche trachealis, which Dr. Dar- win has named Peripneumonia trachealis^. The me- dicine proved emetic, and the patient recovered. * An Investigation of the properties of the Sanguinaria Canadensis, or Puc. coon. By William Downey, of Maryland. Philadelphia : 1803. f An Investigation, &c. pages 23, 25. J See Part First, p. 33, 34, 54, 55. § Zoffnomia, or the Laws of Organic Life. Vol. I. The disease of hives ap- pears under several different shapes, in all of which the trachea seems to be es- sentially affected. In the course of my prf ctice, I have met with some cases, which answer precisely to Darwin's description, and for which I think the term peripneumonia trachealis is a very appropriate one. If I do not mistake, thil form of the disease, in general, more readily admits of early and complete re- lief than any of the other shapes in which it appears. ( 41 ) I have already observed, that the seeds of the Sangui- naria " appear to possess nearly the same quality as the " seeds of Datura Stramonium*." That is, they in- duce fever, delirium, dilatation of the pupil of the eye, &c. Dr. Downey concludes, from a few experiments, which he made with the " unripe seeds," that they pos- " sess a very considerable influence over the pulse, and " a stupifying or narcotic qualityt«" A.deleterious property evidently resides in the leaves of the plant J, as well as in the seeds. Section VI. Cathartics. Under this head, in the former part of the work§, I have mentioned the Asclepias decumbens, commonly call- ed Pleurisy-root, Flux-root, &c. The root of this plant does, unquestionably, possess a purgative quality. But this does not seem to be the most valuable part of its properties. It is said to possess a remarkable power of af- fecting the skin, inducing general and plentiful perspira- tion, without greatly increasing the heat of the body. Ac- cordingly, I find it is much employed by the practition- ers of medicine, in some parts of the United-States, particularly, I believe, in Virginia, as a remedy in cer- tain forms of fever, in pleurisy, and other affections. The root is used both in powder and in decoction. Sometimes, it is used in combination with antimonials. • Part First, p. 27. f An Investigation, &c. p. 24. t Ibid. p. 24. § Page 29. See, also, page 53. F ( 42 ) The decoction often induces perspiration, when other medicines have failed to produce this effect. A physi- cian*, who has been much in the habit of employing this Asclepias, informs me, that « in the low states of * typhus fever, he has more frequently observed a per- * spiration to succeed to the use of the Asclepias than to 1 any of the sudorifics that are generally used.' About thirty years ago, this vegetable Was strongly recommended, as a specific for pleurisy, by a Mr. Thom- son Mason, of Virginia. After the use of an antimonial emetic, and the loss of some blood, he gives his pa- tients " as much of the Pleurisy-root, pounded very " fine, and then searched through a fine search, as will " lie upon a tolerable broad case knife, in a cup of " warm water, and repeats the dose every two hours, " until the patient is perfectly recovered, which happens " frequently after three days, and never fails freeing him " from pain after six." Mr. Thomson assures us, that by these simple means, he " has cured hundreds, and " never failed in a single intance." It does not appear, that Mr. Thomson was a regular physician ; but I have been led to mention his practice the more particularly, because his publication seems to have first called the attention of the public to the virtues of the Pleurisy-root,. and I know that some very respect- able physicians, in Virginiat, have reposed not a little confidence in the powers wrhich our author has ascribed • Dr. Charles Everett. Letter to me, dated Milton, October 23d, 1803. f Among others, my friend, the late Dr. James Greenway, of Dinwiddie- county, in Virginia. From this gentleman, I received a copy of Thomson's paper, which I think first made its appearance in an Almanac, in 1773. ( 4.3 ) to the medicine, as a remedy in the cases in which he employed it. From Mr. Thomson's publication, it also appears, that the Pleurisy-root may be given in pretty large doses, perhaps about half a dram, several times in the course of the day. Indeed, I find that the Virginia physicians are not, very nice in the doses of this medicine, when they prescribe it. It seems that Mr. Thomson entirely confined himself to the use of the Asclepias decumbens, or the species with beautiful orange-coloured blossoms. He observes, however, that there are two other species of the Pleurisy- root, which are known by the name of" Butterfly-weed." It is probable, therefore, that these two kinds (one of which I take for Asclepias Syriaca, well known by the names of Wild-CottOn, and Cotton-plant) have some- times been used for the Asclepias decumbens ; and it is not unlikely, that a common assemblage of properties belongs to a number of the species of this fine family of plants. Asclepias Vincetoxicum, which is a native of Europe, has been recommended by some writers on! the Materia Medica, as a remedy for dysentery, and other diseases. I have already mentioned* the extract of the Juglans cinereat, or Butternut-Walnut. This appears to me to be one of our most valuable native cathartics. It is well adapted to the treatment of dysentery, in which, however, it seems to operate merely as a laxative. A decoction of * .See Part First, p. SI. f Juglans oblonga alba of. Marshall. ( 44 ) the inner bark (liber J of the tree has been very advantage- ously used as a cathartic, in that malignant fever of our horses, called the yellow-water, which I formerly no- ticed*. The green or unripe fruit of this vegetable is consider- ably acrid, and when applied externally to the skin, in- duces some irritation there. Advantage has been taken of this property by the country-people in some parts of the United- States. They apply the cut end of the fruit to those milk-white spots which often appear upon diffeFent parts of the body, and seem to arise from a removal of the rete mucosum, or perhaps rather its colouring matter, from the skin. A surgeon, whom Tmet with in the remote parts of the state of New-York, in the year 1797, in- formed me, that he had known the Butternut employed with the effect of entirely removing the white macula, or spots in some persons. I should have confidently as- cribed the removal of these spots to the stimulant ope- ration of the juice of the nut, if I had not been assured, that similar affections are sometimes removed by the simple application of cream and other articles, which can hardly be supposed to operate by virtue of a stimu- lant power. I am, however, the more inclined to as- cribe the removal of the spots to the stimulant action of the nut, because in a case of this kind, that came under my own notice, I found much advantage from the ap- plication of a blister of cantharides to the affected parts. The spots were not only prevented from increasing, but wer^ very sensibly diminished in size, by the action of tjie cantharides. 1 have c Cc vc C< cc c<- c Cccc c< c c< cc ■ cccc « c ■*. c ^ «c< cor =- ■- *»<"< < -«: —2 c«C > c c «r Ccci C « r ■ V ' c..<- < <: Cc< «r Cc C c c c c c c c c o- c m . c c c <5C7 C~C . c c c c C C -~. ' < c 0 -n*. . «r< + «C* c c << « ««c c. c c 'C- c. c_ OCT << OCT C< CC c c c c c c cc^ C -C c < c ^ c -c ^ x: €.'-«C. <* >«C- _ cc «d re «lc: **T,' c c cpc JS « c <*<- "^ c c oc •^•c cc crc «*&< cc