SLIPPERY ELM.
The bark from the root, scraped fine, relieves swellings, inflammations, and contracted sinews; the root should be boiled some hours, skimmed and allowed to cool. A poultice, made of the bark from the root, boiled one hour and strained, is good for bald head, and will make the hair grow; also, an excellent application for burns, scalds, and inflammations, inwardly or outwardly.
ELECAMPANE.
This is one of the best roots we have in coughs and consumption, or phthisic, when used as a syrup. It is good for the teeth, preventing their aching and decaying; good as an ointment for the itch, and, used with tobacco, is good for all kinds of sores. The tops, made into beer, are good for the sight, cramps, convulsions, spitting of blood, &c.
WHITE BRYONY.
Description.—The stem of this plant twists around bushes, shrubs and trees, and shoots out to a great extent; its tendril leaves are very large, diminishing gradually to the top one; palmated lobes, pointed irregularly, and standing upon long foot-stalks; flowers of a yellow green, male and female, and from the alaæ of the leaves, which are striped with green veins, turns into a red berry. It grows in low meadows and swamps; the roots are white and large.
Medical Properties.—The root is a powerful drastic purgative; it was formerly much used by the celebrated Dr. Sydenham as a hydragogue purge in dropsies.
Directions.—In all dropsical swellings and suppressions of urine, the patient may take 2 to 3 drachms, which will work sufficient without griping; take soup as a drink.
VIRGIN’S BOWER.
This plant rises about two feet in hight; the petals white; the seeds are attached to their stamens, giving them the appearance of feathered tails.