Pennyroyal, (hedeoma.) This plant, administered in warm infusion, promotes perspiration, and is good in flatulent colic.
Peppermint, (mentha piperita.) An ounce of the herb infused in a quart of boiling water relieved spasmodic pains of the stomach and bowels, and is a good carminative, (to expel wind,) provided the alimentary canal is free from obstruction.
Plantain Leaves, (plantago major.) This article is held in high repute for the cure of hydrophobia and bites from poisonous reptiles. The bruised leaves are applied to the parts; the powdered herb and roots to be given internally at discretion.
Pleurisy Root, (asclepias tuberosa.) We have given this article a fair trial in cattle practice, and find it to be invaluable in the treatment of catarrh, bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, and consumption. The form in which we generally prescribe it is,—
| Powdered pleurisy root, | half a table-spoonful. |
| Powdered marshmallow roots, | 1 ounce. |
Boiling water sufficient to make a thin mucilage. The addition of a small quantity of honey increases its diaphoretic properties.
Pomegranate, (punica granatum.) The rind of this article is a powerful astringent, and is occasionally used to expel worms. A strong decoction makes a useful wash for falling of the womb, or fundament. Given as an infusion, in the proportion of half an ounce of the rind to a quart of water, it will arrest diarrhœa.
Poplar, (populus tremuloides.) It possesses tonic, demulcent, and alterative properties. It is often employed, in our practice, as a local application, in the form of poultice. The infusion is a valuable remedy in general debility, and in cases of diseased urinary organs.
Prince's Pine, (chimaphila.) This plant is a valuable remedy in dropsy. It possesses diuretic and tonic properties. It does not produce the same prostration that usually attends the administration of diuretics, for its tonic property invigorates the kidneys, while, at the same time, it increases the secretion of urine. The best way of administering it is by decoction. It is made by boiling four ounces of the fresh-bruised leaves in two quarts of water. After straining, a table-spoonful of powdered marshmallows may be added, to be given in pint doses, night and morning.
Pyroligneous Acid. See Acid.