THE PRICKLEY ASH.
Its Medical Properties and Use.
The prickley ash has a good reputation in the United States as a remedy in chronic rheumatism. In that disease its operation seems analogous to that of mazorion and guaiacum, which it nearly resembles in its sensible properties. Many physicians place so much confidence in it that it is generally kept by the apothecaries. It is most frequently given in decoction—an ounce being boiled in a quart of water and taken in small quantities, frequently repeated. Dr. George Hayward, of Boston, took it in his own case of chronic rheumatism with evidently good effect; he took a pint of the decoction a day, diluted with water so as to weaken its pungency. The powdered bark may be taken in doses of from 10 to 20 grains, and frequently repeated. Dr. Bigelow says it is also given with good effect in cases of old indolent sores; it is given internally and applied to the sore in the form of a wash. Doctors Barton and Thatcher both speak highly of this medicine.