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The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5: Part II. Vegetable Materia Medica

The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5

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English

Contents

Part II. Vegetable Materia Medica

Nat. Order. Ranunculaceæ

Aconitum Ferox

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*Sans.* विष, *Visha*. वत्सनाभ, *Vatsanábha*. *Vern.* *Mithábish*, *Sringibish*, *Dagrá*.

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THE poisonous root called bish or sringibish is derived chiefly from *Aconitum ferox* and *Aconitum Napellus*, which are indigenous to the temperate and sub-alpine Himalaya. Other equally poisonous species of aconite are met with in these regions, and their roots collected for use. In the Introduction (page 7) it has been stated that of the nine virulent poisons mentioned by Sanskrit writers, the majority probably consist of species of aconite. The characters of these poisons are described in the Bhabaprakasa, as follows.

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*Vatsanábha*. This root resembles in appearance the navel of children, hence it is called *Vatsanábha*. Its leaves are like those of *Vitex Negundo*. It is said that no plant can grow near it.

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*Háridra*. This root resembles turmeric in appearance, hence it is so called.

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*Saktu*. This poisonous tuber, when broken, is found to contain a white starch-like substance.

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*Pradipana*. This variety is said to be red and shining in appearance, and to cause a severe burning sensation when taken internally.

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*Sauráshtrika* is the variety of poisonous root produced in the country called Surat.

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Sringi is a variety of aconite which if tied to the horn of a cow, is said to tinge her milk red.

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Kálakuta. This poison is said to be the gum of a plant resembling the Ficus religiosa in appearance. It is a native of Malwa and the Concans.

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Haláhala. The bunches of fruits of this plant resemble those of grapes. Its leaves are like those of the palm tree. It is found in the Himalaya, in the sea coast to the south, the Concan and in the mountain called Kishkindhya to the north of Mysore.

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Brahmaputra. This poison is of a tawny colour and causes purging. It grows on the Malayáchala, that is, the Western Ghats on the Malabar Coast.

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From the above description it would seem that of these nine poisons, the first six are probably species of aconite. Of these the variety called Vatsanábha has been used in medicine from a very remote period.

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Aconite is purified by being cut in small slices and steeped in cow's urine for three days, before being used. It is regarded as heating and stimulant, and useful in diseases supposed to be caused by deranged phlegm and air. It is used in a great variety of affections, but is specially recommended in fever, cephalalgia, affections of the throat, dyspepsia and rheumatism. In recent or acute fevers the following is a favourite medicine.

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Mrityunjaya rasa.¹ Take of purified aconite, sulphur, black pepper, long pepper and borax, each one part, cinnabar two parts; powder and beat them into a mass with water and make into two-grain pills. These pills are given with suitable adjuncts in fever supposed to be caused by deranged air, as also in those caused by the derangement of all the humours, that is, in ordinary remittent fever and in that of typhoid type. A composition very similar to the above is recommended by Sarangadhara under the name of *A'nanda bhairava rasa*. If there is much constipation along with the fever, croton seeds are added to the above ingredients, as in the preparation called *Jvara murári rasa*.¹

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¹ मृत्युञ्जयरसः । विषस्यैकं तथा भागं मरिचं पिप्पलीकणा । गन्धकञ्च तथा भागं विभागं हिङ्गुलं भवेत् । जलेन वटिकां कार्या गुञ्जामात्रा प्रमा-णतः । मधुना लेहनं कार्यं सर्व्वज्वरनिवर्त्तये । रस रत्नाकरः ।

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¹ ज्वरहरारिः । हिङ्गु लञ्च विषं व्योषं टङ्कणं नागराभया । जयपाल-समायुक्तं सद्योज्वरनिवारणम् । सर्व्वचूर्णसमं जयपालचूर्ण सर्व्वं पिष्ट्वा कलायप्रमाणा वटिका कार्या आर्द्रकस्वरसेन पिबेत् ।। भैषज्यरत्नावली ।

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In fever complicated with cerebral symptoms aconite is used in combination with mercury and datura, as in the following called *Panchavaktra rasa*.² Take of purified mercury, sulphur, aconite, black pepper and borax, rub them together with the juice of datura leaves for twelve hours, and make into four-grain pills. Along with these pills a decoction of the root of *Calotropis gigantea* (*arka*) with the addition of long pepper, black pepper and ginger is recommended to be taken.

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² पञ्चवक्त्ररसः । शुद्धसूतम्बिवषं गन्धं मरिचं टङ्कणङ्क्षणा । मह्ययेदुच्चजै-र्द्वार्व्वदिनमेकञ्चशोषयेत् । पञ्चवक्त्रसोनामदिगुञ्जःसन्निपातहा । अर्कमूल-कषायन्तुसत्पाषणमनुपाययेत् । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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In chronic fever with strong shivering fits, copious perspiration, or much heat of body, aconite is used in combination with salts and aromatics, as in the following called *Saubhágya vatiká*.³ Take of aconite, borax, cumin seeds, the five salts, *viz.* rock, sea, sonchal, vit and sambar salts, the three myrobalans, ginger, long pepper and black pepper, prepared talc, mercury and sulphur, in equal parts. First rub the mercury and sulphur together, then mix them with the other ingredients, soak the mixture seven times successively in the juice of the following leaves, namely, of *Vitex* Negundo (nirgundi) Nyctanthes Arbor-tristis (sepháliká), Eclipta prostrata (kesarája), Adhatoda Vasica (vásaka) and Achyranthes aspera (apámárga), and make into four-grain pills.

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³ सौभाग्यवटिका । सौभाग्यमस्तः जीर पञ्चलवण व्योषा भयात्रामला । निसन्द्राभ्रक शुद्धगन्धक रसानेकीकृतान् भावयेत् । निर्गुण्डीयुग भृङ्गराजक वृषा-पामार्गपत्रोल्लसत् । प्रत्येकस्वरसेन सिद्धवटिका हन्तिदोषोदयम् । येषां शीतमतौव दाहमखिलं खेदद्वाद्रौकतम् । निद्रां घोरतरां समस्तकरणव्यामो-हमुढं मनः । मूलं श्वासलसाकसहितं मूर्च्छाचितहज्वरम् । तेषां वै परिहृत्य जीवितमसौ गृह्णाति मृत्योर्मुखात् । भैषज्यरत्नावली ।

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Aconite is much used in dyspepsia with loss of appetite, in a variety of combinations. The following called Rámavána rasa¹ is an illustration. Take of mercury, aconite, cloves, and sulphur, each one part, black pepper, two parts, nutmeg, half a part, rub them together with tamarind juice and make into two-grain pills. These pills are given with the addition of powdered black pepper. Another preparation called Hutásana rasa is similar in composition to the above, and is recommended by several writers.

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¹ रामवाणरसः। पारदाभ्रक खड्गगन्धकं भागयुग्म मरिचेन मिश्रितम्। ततजातिफलमर्द्धभागकं तिन्त्रिड़ोफलरसेनमर्दितम्। वह्निमान्यदववक्त्रा- घ्नो रामवाण इतिविश्रुतो रसः। रसेन्द्रचिन्तामनी।

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In diseases supposed to be caused by deranged phlegm, such as catarrh, sore throat, cough, asthma, discharges from the ears and nose etc, aconite is used in combination with other heating medicines. The following called Kapha ketu rasa² is a well known medicine for these diseases. Take of aconite, borax, long pepper, and conch-shell lime, equal parts; powder, mix and soak the mixture three times successively in fresh ginger juice. Dose, two grains, to be given with ginger juice. A preparation similar to the above and called Bhairava rasa, is used in hoarseness and loss of voice.

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² कफकेतुरसः। टङ्कणं मागधीशङ्खं वत्सनाभं समंसमम्। आर्द्रकस्वरसे- नापि भावयेद्विसतलयम्। गुञ्जामानं प्रदातव्यं आर्द्रकस्वरसेन वै। पीनसश्वास कासञ्च गलरोगं गलग्रहम्। कर्णरोगं नेत्ररोगं दन्तरोगञ्चदारुणम्। एतान् रोगाञ्जिहन्याशु कफकेतुरसोत्तमः। रसेन्द्रसारसंग्रहः।

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In cephalalgia and hemicrania it is recommended to be given in the following form. Take of aconite one part, liquorice root and the pulse of Phaseolus Roxburghii (másha), each two parts; powder and make into one-grain pills.

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In boils and other skin diseases aconite is used in the form of liniment and ointment. The following is an illustration.

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1 रामवाणरसः। पारदाभ्रक खड्गगन्धकं भागयुग्म मरिचेन मिश्रितम्।
ततजातिफलमर्द्धभागकं तिन्त्रिड़ोफलरसेनमर्दितम्। वह्निमान्यदववक्त्रा-
घ्नो रामवाण इतिविश्रुतो रसः। रसेन्द्रचिन्तामनी।

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2 कफकेतुरसः। टङ्कणं मागधीशङ्खं वत्सनाभं समंसमम्। आर्द्रकस्वरसे-
नापि भावयेद्विसतलयम्। गुञ्जामानं प्रदातव्यं आर्द्रकस्वरसेन वै। पीनसश्वास
कासञ्च गलरोगं गलग्रहम्। कर्णरोगं नेत्ररोगं दन्तरोगञ्चदारुणम्।
एतान् रोगाञ्जिहन्याशु कफकेतुरसोत्तमः। रसेन्द्रसारसंग्रहः।

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*Visha taila.*¹ Take of sesamum oil four seers, aconite root eight tolas, seeds of *Pongamia glabra* (*karanja*), turmeric, wood of *Berberis Asiatica* (*dáruharidrá*), root of *Calotropis gigantea* (*arka*), of *Nerium odorum* (*karavira*), flowers of *Tabernaemontana coronaria* (*tagara*), *Acorus calamus* (*vacha*), *Aplotaxis auriculata* (*kushtha*) *Vallaris dichotoma* (*ásphotá*), red sandal wood, flowers of *Aganosma caryophyllata* (*málati*), bark of *Alstonia Scholaris*, (*saptaparna*), madder and leaves of *Vitex Negundo* (*nirgundi*), each four tolás, cow’s urine sixteen seers. The solid ingredients should be beaten into a paste with water, and then boiled with the oil and cow’s urine till the watery portion is evaporated. This oil is said to be useful in boils, prurigo, psoriasis, leucoderma and other skin diseases.

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¹ विषतैलम् । नक्तमालं हरिद्रे द्वे अर्कस्तगरमेवच । करवीरं वचाकुष्ठमा- स्फोतारक्तचन्दनम् ॥ मालतीसप्तपर्णञ्च मञ्जिष्ठासिन्धुवारिका । एषामर्द्धपलान् भागान् विषस्यापिपलन्तथा । चतुर्गुणे गवां मूत्रे तैलप्रस्थं विपाचयेत् । श्वित्र- विस्फोट किटिम कीटलूता विचर्चिकाः । कण्डूकृच्छ्र विकारान् ये व्रणाविषदू- षिताः । विषतैलमिदं नाम्ना सर्व्वव्रणविशोधनम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

Aconitum Heterophyllum

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*Sans.* आतिव, *A'taicha*, अतिविष, *A'tivisha*. *Vern.* *A'tis*.

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THE tuberous roots of this plant are considered tonic, astringent and stomachic, and are used in fever, diarrhœa, irritability of stomach and cough. Atis is also regarded as an antidote to poisons.

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In fever with diarrhœa the following compound decoction² is much used in practice. Take of *átis*, ginger, kurchi bark, tubers of *Cyperus rotundus* (*mustaka*), and root of *Tinospora cordifolia* (*gulancha*), equal parts, in all two tolás, water thirty-two tolás. Boil till the water is reduced to one-fourth or eight tolás. This quantity is given in two or three divided doses during the course of the day. Chakradatta recommends the following called Hrive-rádi¹ in similar cases. Take of átis, dried bela, root of Pavonia odorata (bálá) and Cyperus rotundus (mustaka), ginger and coriander, equal parts, in all two tolás and prepare a decoction in the usual way.

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² नागरं कूटजोमुस्तममृतातिविषतया । एभिःकृतं पिबेत्क्वाथं ज्वराती- सारनाशनम् । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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¹ ह्रीवेरादिः । ह्रीवेरातिविषामुस्त बिल्वधान्यकनागरैः । पिबेत्पिच्छा-विबन्धघ्नं मूलदे षामपाचनम् । सरक्तं हन्त्यतीसारं सज्वरं वाथविज्वरम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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In the fever, diarrhœa, cough, and irritability of stomach of infants, átis is used alone or in the following combination. Take of átis, tubers of Cyperus rotundus (mustaka) and the horny excrescence of Rhus succedanea (karkatasringi), equal parts, powder and mix. This compound powder is given in suitable doses with the addition of honey. Sometimes long pepper is added to the above ingredients, when the powder is called Bála-cháturbhadraka,² from its being composed of four ingredients.

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² बालचातुर्भद्रिका । घनकृष्णाकर्कटाष्टचूर्ण चौद्रेण संयुतम् । शिशो-ज्वरार्तिसारघ्नं कासश्वासवमीहरम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

Nigella Sativa

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*Sans.* कृष्णजीरक, Krishnajiraka. *Vern.* Kálájirá, *Beng.* Mugrela, *Hind.*

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THE seeds of Nigella sativa are regarded as aromatic, carminative stomachic and digestive, and are used in indigestion, loss of appetite, fever, diarrhœa puerperal diseases etc. They are also said to increase the secretion of milk, and are therefore given to recently delivered females in combination with a few other medicines. Nigella seeds are scattered between layers of woolen clothes, shawls etc., to preserve them from insects. This use of the seeds appears to be common all over India.

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In intermittent fever nigella seeds slightly roasted are recommended to be given in two drachm doses with the addition of an equal quantity of treacle.³

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³ कालाजाजी तु सगुड़ा विषमज्वर नाशिनी ।

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In loss of appetite and distaste for food a confecti on made of Nigella seeds, cumin seeds, black pepper, raisins, tamarind pulp, pomegranate juice and sonchal salt, with treacle and honey is said to be very useful.¹

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¹ कारव्यजाजीमरिचं द्राक्षाट्याम्लदाडिमम् । सौवर्चलं गुडं चौद्रं सर्वा-रोचकनाशनम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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Chakradatta recommends the administration of nigella seeds with the addition of long pepper, sonchal salt and wine in the after pains of puerperal women.² In puerperal diseases, such as fever, loss of appetite and disordered secretions, after delivery, the following called *Pancha jiraka páka*³ is used. Take of nigella seeds, cumin seeds, aniseeds, ajowan, seeds of *Carum sativum* (*ajamodá*) *Anethum Sowa* (*sulpha*) and *Trigonella Fœnum-græcum* (*methi*), coriander, ginger, long pepper, long pepper root, plumbago root, *habushá* (an aromatic substance) dried pulp of the fruit *Ziziphus Jujuba* (*vadari phala*), root of *Aplotaxis auriculata* (*kushtha*) and kamala powder, each one tolá, treacle one hundred tolás, milk one seer, clarified butter four tolas. Boil them together and prepare a confection. Dose about a drachm every morning.

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² उपकुञ्चिकां पिप्पलीञ्च मदिरां ताभतः पिबेत् । सौवर्चलेन संयुक्तां योनिमूलनिवारणीम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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³ पञ्चजीरक पाकः । जीरकं स्थूलजीरञ्च शतपुष्पाह्वयं तथा । यवानी चाजमोदा च धान्यकं मेथिकापि च । शुण्ठी कृष्णाकृष्णामूलं चित्रकं हवुषापि च । वदरीफल चूर्णञ्च कुष्ठं काम्पिल्लकं तथा । एतानि पलमात्राणि गुडं पलशतं मतम् । क्षीरप्रस्थद्वयं दद्यात्सर्पिषः कुडवं तथा । पञ्चजीरकपाको-

Nat. Order. Menispermaceæ

Stephania Hernandifolia

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*Syn.* Cissampelos hexandra. Rox.

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*Sans.* अम्बष्ठा, *Ambashthá*. पाठा, *Páthá*. *Vern.* A'kanádi, Nemuka.

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In the Pharmacopœia of India it is stated that the *Cissampelos hernandifolia*, Wall. is identical with Pareira Brava, and is common throughout India. Other authorities say, that the true Pareira Brava is derived from Chondodendron tomentosum. The plant used by Kavirajas in Bengal under the name of páthá is identical with that figured by Roxburgh as Cissampelos hexandra. The root of this plant is regarded as light, bitter, astringent and useful in fever, diarrhœa, urinary diseases, dyspepsia etc.

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In fever with diarrhœa, the following compound decoction¹ is recommended by Chakradatta. Take of páthá root, indrajava seeds, chiretta, tubers of Cyperus rotundus ( mustaka ), Hedyotis biflora ( parpati ), gulancha, and ginger, equal parts, in all two tolas, water thirty-two tolas; and boil till reduced to one-fourth. In diarrhœa caused by indigestion and attended with pain and slimy or bilious stools, the following decoction is used. Take of páthá root, indrajava seeds, chebulic myrobalan and ginger, each half a tola, water thirty-two tolas. Boil down to one-fourth.

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¹ In fever with diarrhœa, the following compound decoction

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In internal or deep seated inflammation, Chakradatta recommends the root of this plant to be taken with honey and water in which rice has been macerated.²

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² In internal or deep seated inflammation, Chakradatta recommends the root of this plant to be taken with honey and water in which rice has been macerated.

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In urine depositing salts or a white flocculent substance, a decoction of páthá and aloes-wood is used.³

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³ In urine depositing salts or a white flocculent substance, a decoction of páthá and aloes-wood is used.

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In painful micturition the following decoction⁴ is considered useful. Take of páthá root, Hedysarum lagopodioides (prisniparni),

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⁴ In painful micturition the following decoction is considered useful.

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ऽयं प्रसूतानां प्रशान्ते । युज्यते स्तातकारोगे योनिोगे ज्वरेऽजये । कासे श्वासे पाण्डुरोगे कार्श्ये वातामयेषु च । भावप्रकाशः ।

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1 पाठेन्द्रयवभूनिम्ब सुप्तपर्पटकास्तथाः । जयन्याममतीसारं मज्वरं सम-घोषधाः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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2 शमयतिपाठामूलं क्षोद्रयुतं तण्डुलाम्भसापीतम् । अन्नभूतं विद्रधि-सुद्धतमाश्वेवमनुजय । अपकोबे तदुद्दिष्टं पक्वे तु ब्रणवत् क्रिया । चक्रदत्तः ।

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3 पारिजातजयानिम्बर्वाङ्गगायविषां पृथक् । पाठायाः सागुराः पीताह-यस्य शारदस्य च । जले चुम्यसिकृताशनैर्लवणपिष्टकान् । सान्द्रमेहान् क्रमात् घ्नन्ति अष्टौ काथाः सकाच्चिकाः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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4 बृहतीधावनीपाठा यष्टीमधुकलिङ्गकाः । पाचनीयोऽष्टह्यादिः कच्छ्रदोष-त्रयापहः । चक्रदत्तः । root of Solanum Indicum (vrihati), liquorice root and indrajava seeds, equal parts, in all two tolás. Boil down to one-fourth.

Tinospora Cordifolia

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*Sans.* गुडूची, *Guduchi.* अमृता, *Amritá.* *Vern.* Gulancha, *Beng.* Gurach, *Hind.*

c5.s2.t2.2

The stem, leaves, roots and watery extract of this plant are all used in Hindu Medicine. The entire plant is regarded as a valuable alterative and tonic. It is used in general debility, fever, jaundice, skin diseases, rheumatism, urinary diseases, irritability of stomach, etc.

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The fresh juice of the plant is taken with milk as a general tonic. In fevers it is used in a great variety of forms. Thus a cold infusion of gulancha is given with honey in bilious fever. A decoction¹ of gulancha or its fresh juice is given with the addition of long pepper and honey in chronic fever with cough. A compound decoction is thus prepared. Take of gulancha, Hedyotis biflora (parparta), Cyperus rotundus (mustaka), chiretta and ginger, each one drachm, water, half a seer. Boil down to one-fourth. It is said to be useful in fevers caused by deranged air and bile. Practically it is found very useful in chronic fevers, which have resisted other antiperiodics, and which are apt to recur after apparent recovery. In chronic fever with loss of appetite, the following confection is recommended by many writers.

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¹ पिप्पलीमधुसंभिन्नं गुडूची स्वरसं पिबेत् । जीर्ण ज्वर कफ प्लीह कासारोचकनाशनम् । गुडूची पर्पटं मुस्तं किरातं विश्वभेषजम् । वात पित्तज्वरे देयं पञ्चभद्रमिदं शुभम् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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Dhátrimodaka.² Take of chebulic and emblic myrobalans, ginger and long pepper, one part each, watery extract of gulancha, four parts, water sixteen parts. Boil till reduced to one-fourth, and prepare a confection with eight parts of sugar. When of proper consistence divide the mass into boluses of about a drachm each. One of these is taken every morning, in chronic fever with enlarged spleen, cough, loss of appetite, etc.

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² धात्रीमोदकः । धात्री पथ्यां कणां शुण्ठीं तुल्याञ्च चूर्णयेद् दृढम् ।

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Gulancha enters into the composition of a large number of prescriptions for chronic skin diseases. The juice of the plant or its decoction is given alone, or with the addition of *guggulu* or bdellium.¹ Numerous compound decoctions with the addition of various other drugs such as *nim*, turmeric, catechu, etc. are used in these diseases, as well as in gout and rheumatism.² Several oils, for external application are prepared with *gulancha* and are much used in skin diseases, rheumatic affections and nervous complaints.

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¹ वत्सादनुद्भवः काथः पीतो गुग्गुलुसंयुतः ।

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² गुडूच्याः स्वरसं कल्कं चूर्णं वा कायमेव वा । प्रभात कालमासेव्य मुच्यते-वातगोष्पितात् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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*Guḍuchyádi taila*.³ Take of fresh *gulancha*, eight seers, water, sixty-four seers, boil till reduced to one-fourth and strain. To the strained decoction, add prepared sesamum oil, four seers, and *gulancha* beaten to a paste with water, one seer, boil together till the water is evaporated. This oil is a favourite application in eruptive skin diseases from impure blood. The *Vrihat guḍuchyádi taila* is prepared by the addition of a number of other medicines in the form of paste, to the decoction of *gulancha* and the oil. Another compound oil called *Váta guḍuchyádi taila* is thus prepared. Take of *gulancha*, twelve seers, and a half water sixty-four seers. Boil till reduced to one fourth. Take of the fresh juice of *Adhatoda Vasica* (*vásaka*) and of *datura* leaves, each four seers, prepared mustard oil, four seers, aromatics in the form of paste one seer. Boil together the decoction of *gulancha* with the vegetable juices, oil and paste, in the usual

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³ गुडूचीकायल्कल्पाभ्यां तैलं वा वातरक्तनुत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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चतुःसमायुक्तया शर्कराच पलं तथा । मधुना मोदकं कार्य्यात् जीर्णज्वरहरं परं । मन्दाग्निदीपनं चैव सद्योदाह विनाशनम् । प्लीहज्वरे तथाकासे श्वासे च रक्तपित्तके । दापयेत् मोदकं वैद्यः धात्रीनाममिदं महत् । सारकौमुदी ।

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manner. This oil is recommended by Charaka in eruptive skin diseases with troublesome itching, as also in diseases of nervous origin.

Nat. Order. Berberideæ

Berberis Asiatica and Other Species

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Sans. दारुहरिद्रा, Dáruharidrá. दार्बी, Dárvi. Vern. Dáruhaldi. Hind.

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THE wood, root-bark and extract of Indian Barberry have been used in Hindu Medicine from a very remote period. Its properties are said to be analogous to those of turmeric. The extract, called Rasánjana* in Sanskrit and Rasot in the vernacular, is directed to be prepared by boiling together equal parts of a decoction of Indian barberry and milk, till reduced to the consistence of an extract.† The extract thus prepared, is said to be particularly useful in affections of the eyes. Indian barberry and its extract rasot are regarded as alterative and deobstruent, and are used in skin diseases, menorrhagia, diarrhœa, jaundice and above all, in affections of the eyes.

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Rasánjanádi churna,1 or compound powder of rasot. Take of rasot, átis, the bark and seeds of Holarrhena antidysenterica, flowers of Woodfordia floribunda (dhátaki) and ginger, in equal parts. Powder and mix. Dose, about a drachm, with rice water

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* Galena or the sulphide of lead ore is sometimes called rasánjana in Sanskrit, and some physicians in Bengal use the lead ore for rasánjana, whenever this term occurs in a prescription. In the Upper Provinces however, rasánjana is invariably translated rasot in the vernacular. This, no doubt, is the correct practice. The mistake on the part of the Bengali physicians, probably occurred from their not being acquainted with rasot, which is the produce of plants indigenous to the Himalayan range.

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† दार्बीक्वाथ समंक्षीरं पादम्पक्त्वा यथाघनम् । तदारसाञ्जनाख्यन्तन्नेत्रयोः परमं हितम् ।

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1 रसाञ्जनादि चूर्णः। रसाञ्जनं सातिविषं कुटजस्य फलं त्वचम् । धातकी- शृङ्गबेरञ्च प्रपिबेत्तण्डुलाम्बुना ॥ चौद्रेणयुतं नुदतिरक्षातिसारसल्वनम् । मन्दं दीपयतेचाग्निं मूलञ्चापिनिवर्त्तयेत् । चक्रदत्तः । ( tandulámbu ) and honey. This powder is said to be useful in bilious diarrhœa.

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Dárvyádi kvátha,¹ or compound decoction of Indian barberry. Take of the root bark of Indian barberry, rasot, chiretta, Adhatoda Vasica (vásaka), Cyperus rotundus (mustaka), bela fruit and marking nuts, equal parts, and prepare a decoction in the usual way. This is administered with honey in menorrhagia and copious discharges from the womb. Another combination said to be very useful in menorrhagia is as follows. Take of rasot and the root of Amaranthus spinosus ( tanduliya ) equal parts, beat into a paste with water, and administer with honey and water in which rice has been steeped.

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¹ दार्बीग्रादिकाथः । दार्बी रसाञ्जनं वृषाब्द किरात बिल्व भल्लातकै रवि-

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Sárangadhara recommends a simple decoction of Indian barberry to be given with the addition of honey in jaundice. In painful micturition from bilious or acrid urine, a decoction of Indian barberry² and emblic myrobalan is given with honey. A decoction³ of the root bark is used as a wash for unhealthy ulcers, and is said to improve their appearance and promote cicatrization. In the intertrigo of infants, rasot is recommended to be applied externally and administered internally.⁴ Rasot mixed with honey, is said to be an useful application to aphthous sores.

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² दार्बी तथै वामलकीरसेन समाक्षिकां पैत्तिक मूत्रकृच्छ्रे । चक्रदत्तः ।

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³ त्रिफला खदिरो दार्बी न्यग्रोधादिबलाकृताः । निम्ब कोलकपत्राणि

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⁴ रसाञ्जनं विशेषेण पानालेपनयोर्हितम् । गुदभ्रंशेगुदं स्नेहैर्भव्यञ्चाशु

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The principal use of rasot however is in eye-diseases, in which it is employed in a great variety of forms. The following are a few illustrations. Take of rasot, chebulic myrobalan, rock salt and red ochre, equal parts, rub them together into a paste with water,

c5.s3.t1.14

कृतोमधुना कषायः । पीतो जयत्यतिबलं प्रदरं समूलं पीतासितारुण विलोहित
नील गुल्मम् ॥ चक्रदत्तः ।

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कषायः शोधने हितः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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प्रवेशयेत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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and apply round the orbit in inflammatory affections of the eyes. 1 Rasot mixed with honey may also be used in the same way. An emulsion of rasot made with milk is recommended to be poured into the eyes, or used as a collyrium for relieving pain, burning and lachrymation.²

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² दार्वीरसाञ्जनं वापि स्तन्ययुक्तं प्रपूरणम् ॥ निहन्तिशीघ्रं दाहार्त्तिवेदनाः स्यन्दसम्भवाः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER. NYMPHÆACEÆ.

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NELUMBIUM SPECIOSUM.

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NYMPHÆA LOTUS ETC.

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THESE beautiful aquatic plants had attracted the attention of the ancient Hindus from a very remote period, and obtained a place in their religious ceremonies and mythological fables; hence they are described in great detail by Sanskrit writers. The flowers of *Nelumbium speciosum*, called *Padma* or *Kamala*, are sacred to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The white variety of this plant is called *Pundarîka*, the red, *Kokanada* and the blue, *Indivara*. The entire plant including root, stem and flower is called *Padmini*. The torus or receptacle for the seed is, called *Karnikára*, and the honey formed in the flowers, *Makaranda*. The filaments round the base of the receptacle, pass by the name of *Kinjalka* and the leaf-stalk by that of *Mrinála*. The species of *Nymphæa* described, are as follows:—

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*Nymphæa Lotus*. Kumuda, Sans. Sáluka. Beng. Koi. Hind.

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*Nymphæa stellata*. Nilotpala, Sans. Nilsaphalá, Beng.

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*Nymphæa rubra*. Raktotpala, Sans. Raktakambal, Beng.

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The root-stocks of these water plants contain a sort of starch, and are eaten by the poorer classes. During the famine of 1866 in Orissa, they were much sought after by the starving people.

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¹ हरीतकीसैन्धवञ्च गैरिकञ्च रसाञ्जनम् । विडाल्कोजलेपिष्ठः सर्वनेत्रामयापहः ॥ शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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The seeds of *Nelumbium speciosum* are eaten raw. The small seeds of *Nymphæa Lotus*, called *bheta*, are fried in heated sand and used as a light easily digestible food. The seeds of *Euryale ferox* called *makhánna* is Sanskrit, are also used in the same manner, and are regarded as light, invigorating food suited for sick people.

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The filaments of these plants are used medicinally. They are considered astringent and cooling, and useful in burning of the body, bleeding piles and menorrhagia. In bleeding piles the filaments of the lotus are given with honey and fresh butter or with sugar.¹ In menorrhagia the filaments of *Nymphæa stellata* are given with the addition of sonchal salt, nigella seeds, liquorice powder, curdled milk and honey.² A compound decoction is thus prepared.

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¹ समङ्गाकेशरं क्षौद्रं नवनीतं नवं लिहेत् । सिताकेशर संयुक्ता रक्तार्शःसुखिभवेत् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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² दघ्न सौवर्चल जाजीमधुकं नीलमुत्पलम् । पिबेत् क्षौद्रयुतं नारीवातासृग्दरपीडिता । चक्रदत्तः ।

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*Utpaládi sritam*.³ Take of the filaments of *Nymphæa Lotus*, *N. stellata* and *N. rubra*, of the white váriety of *Nelumbium speciosum* and liquorice root, equal parts, in all, two tolás, and prepare a decoction in the usual way. This decoction is said to be useful in thirst, burning of the body, fainting, vomiting, hemorrhage from the internal organs, and bleeding from the womb during gestation.

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³ गुर्वियागर्भतोरक्तं स्रवेद्यदि मुहुर्मुहुः । तन्निरोधाय सा दुग्धमुत्पलादि कृतं पिबेत् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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A cooling application⁴ for external use is prepared as follows. Take of the filaments and leaf-stalks of *Nelumbium speciosum*, *Nymphæa stellata*, and *Nymphæa Lotus* and of red sandal wood, equal parts, and rub them together into a thin paste with cold water. This is applied to the forehead in cephalalgia. A paste made of emblic myrobalans and the filaments of the lotus is also used for the same purpose. Similar compositions are recommended for external inflammations, erysipelas etc.

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⁴ मृणालबिसशालूकचन्दनोत्पलकेसरैः । स्निग्धशीतैः शिरोदह्यात्तहृद-मन्नकोत्पले । चक्रदत्तः ।

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The large leaves of *Nelumbium speciosum* are used as cool bedsheets, in high fever with much heat and burning of the skin.¹

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¹ चन्दनाम्बु कणास्वान्तालङ्कन्नोपवीजितः। तृषाहार्दितोऽम्भोजकदलीदलसम्भवे। चक्रदत्तः।

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NAT. ORDER. PAPAVERACEÆ.

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PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM.

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Sans. अहिफेन, *Ahiphena*. Vern. *A'phim*.

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OPIUM appears to have been brought into India by the Mussulmans, as its Sanskrit name is evidently derived from the Arabic *Afyun*, and as it is not mentioned by the older Sanskrit writers.

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The capsules of the poppy are called *Khákhas*, and the seeds, *Khasatila*, in Sanskrit. The seeds yield a bland oil, which is used for culinary purposes and in lamps. The seeds themselves are innocuous and used as food. They are boiled, mixed with a little oil and salt, and taken as a curry with rice, or they are made into balls and formed with tamarind, into an acid curry. Poppy seeds are sprinkled over some sorts of native sweetmeats.

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Sanskrit writers describe poppy seeds as demulcent and nutritive, and useful in cough and asthma. The capsules of the poppy are regarded as light, astringent, and narcotic. They promote talkativeness and destroy or diminish the sexual power. The properties of opium are said to be analogous to those of the capsules. Opium is used as an astringent and narcotic in bowel complaints, cough, external inflammations, urinary diseases, fractures, skin diseases etc.

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In diarrhœa and cholera the following, called *A'marákshasi*,² is used. Take of opium, nutmeg, cloves, cinnabar and camphor, equal parts. Beat them into a mass with water, and make into four-grain pills.

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² आमराक्षसी। जातीफलं लवङ्गं स्यादहिफेनं सशोणितम्। कर्पूरं समभागञ्च वटों कुर्य्यात् दिरक्तिकाम्। अन्नसोदरमुष्णन्तु अनुपानं प्रशस्यते।

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In chronic diarrhœa and dysentery, the following called *Grahani kapáta rasa*,¹ is recommended. Take of nutmeg, borax, prepared talc and datura seeds, each one part, opium two parts, and make into two-grain pills with the juice of *Pæderia fœtida* (*prasárani*). In diarrhœa with anasarca the following, called *Dugdhavati*, is much used by the Kavirajas.

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¹ ग्रहणीकपाटरसः। जातोफलं टङ्कणमभ्रकञ्च धूस्तूरबीजं समभागचूर्णम्। भागद्वयंस्यादहिफेणकस्य गन्धालिकापत्र रसेनमर्दम्। चणप्रमाणां वटिकां प्रकाय्या यत्नादिदध्यात् ग्रहणीगदेषु । सामेषु शूलेषु सरक्तवेषु पक्वेष्वपक्वेषु गुदामयेषु । पथ्यं सदध्योदनमतदेयं रसोत्तमोयं ग्रहणीकपाटः । रसेन्द्रसारसंग्रहः ।

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*Dugdhavati*.² Take of opium and aconite, twenty-four grains each, prepared iron ten grains, prepared talc twelve grains. Beat them into a mass with milk and make into four-grain pills. One pill is to be given every morning with milk. The diet is restricted to milk alone, water and salt being prohibited. In fever with diarrhœa, opium is used in combination with arsenic, as for example in the following preparation.

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² दुग्धवटी । अमृतं सूर्यगुञ्जं स्यात् अहिफेणं तथैव च । पञ्चरक्तिक लौहञ्च षष्ठरक्तिकमभ्रकम् । दुग्धं गेञ्जाद्वयमिता वटिकाकार्याभिषग्विदा । दुग्धानुपानं दुग्धैश्च भोजनं सर्वथा हितम् । शोथं नानाविधं हन्ति ग्रहणी विषमज्वरम् । मन्दाग्निं पाण्डु रोगञ्च नाम्ना दुग्धवटी परा । वर्जयेत् लवणं वारि व्याधि निःशेषतावधि । भैषज्यरत्नावली ।

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*Sambhunátha rasa*.³ Take of orpiment, realgar, cinnabar, white arsenic, borax, aconite and alum each, one part, mercury,

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³ शम्भुनाथ रसः। तालकं टङ्कणं रक्तं फिटकारी च मनःशिला। गोदन्तं वत्सनाभञ्च सर्वतुल्यञ्च भागिकम् । सर्वतुल्यं रसं गन्धं तत्समं फणिफेणकम् । शक्राग्न रसैर्भाव्यं निर्गुण्ड्याश्च रसेन च । कनकस्य पत्ररसै निम्ब-

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असाध्येत्वामरोगे तु एषैकमहौषधम् । आमराजसनामायं रसः परमदुर्लभः । रसेन्द्रसारसंग्रहः । sulphur and opium, each seven parts. Soak them for seven days in each of the following fluids, namely, juice of the leaves of *Cannabis sativa*, *Vitex Negundo*, datura and nim. Make into two-grain pills. These are given with ginger juice in diarrhœa with high fever.

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Akarádi churna.¹ Take of pellitory root, ginger, seeds called (*kakkola*), saffron, long pepper, nutmeg, cloves and red sandal wood, each two tolás, opium eight tolás. Rub them together and pass the powder through a cloth. Then add sugar, equal in quantity to all the above ingredients. Dose grains six to twelve, with honey. This medicine is used as an aphrodisiac.

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¹ चकरादिचूर्णः। अकराकरभः शुण्ठीकक्कोलं कुङ्कुमं कणा। जातीफलं लवङ्गञ्च चन्दनञ्चेतिकार्षिकान्। चूर्णनिमांस्ततः कुर्यादहिफेनं पलोज्झितम्। सर्वमेकीकृतं चूर्ण सूक्ष्मं तद्वस्त्रगालितम्। सितासर्वसमादेयामाषैकं मधुनालिहेत्। शुक्रस्तम्भकरं चूर्ण पुंसामानन्दकारकम्। नारीणां प्रीतिजननं सेवेतनिषिकासुकः। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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Opium enters into the composition of some external applications in the form of paste, along with other medicines. A poultice made of poppy seeds with milk is prescribed by Sárangadhara in porrigo of the scalp.²

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² दुग्धेन खाखसबीजं प्रलेपादारुणं जयेत्। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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The Amritaságar recommends the following preparation of opium in diabetes. Take of camphor and musk, each one part, opium and mace, each four parts. Make into two-grain pills. They are administered with the juice of betel leaves.

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पवरसैः पुनः। पृयगेषां रसैः सप्त भावयेत् कुशलभिषक्। वटीं रक्तिद्वयं कुर्यात् शृङ्गवेरानुपानतः। सर्वरूपं सान्निपातमतिसारञ्च नाशयेत्। ग्रहणीमामदोषञ्च ज्वरं सर्वं विनाशयेत्। उद्वेगे मस्तके तैलं पथ्यञ्च दधिभक्तकम्। शीतोपचारं कर्त्तव्यं क्रमेण गुणवर्द्धते। शम्भुनाथ इति ख्यातो महादेवेन भाषितः। भैषज्यतन्त्रः।

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NAT. ORDER. CRUCIFERÆ.

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SINAPIS.

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*Sans.* सिद्धार्थ, *Siddhártha*. राजिका, *Rájiká*.

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*Vern.* Sarishá, Rái Sarishá, Beng.

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Two varieties of mustard are mentioned by Sanskrit writers, namely, *siddhártha* or white mustard, (*Sinapis glauca* of Roxburgh, *Brassica campestris*, L.) and *rájiká* or dark brown variety, (*Sinapis ramosa* of Roxburgh, *Brassica juncea*, Hooker, *fil*, et Thomson). The latter is more pungent and preferred for external application as a rubefacient. Mustard oil is largely used by the natives for culinary purposes as well as for anointing the body before bathing. Mustard oil anointment is said to keep the body cool, and the skin soft, to promote the growth of hair and to remove prurigo, lice and scurf. The leaves of the mustard plant are used as a pot-herb, and considered pungent and stomachic.

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Mustard enters into the composition of emetic mixtures, of which the following is an example. Take of mustard seeds, *Acorus Calamus* root (vacha), bark of *Symplocos racemosa* (lodhra), and rock salt, equal parts. Powder and mix.¹

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¹ सिद्धार्थ वचालोध्र सैन्धवैस्र्पलेपनम् । वमनञ्च निहन्त्याशु पिडकां यौवनोद्भवाम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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Mustard forms an ingredient of several prescriptions for loss of appetite, indigestion, etc. Thus take of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fried assafœtida, ginger and rock salt, equal parts. Powder and mix. Dose, grains twenty-two with butter-milk.

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Mustard is used externally, alone, or in combination with other medicines in a great variety of diseases, and notably in parotitis, sciatica, paraplegia, gout, inflammatory swellings, urticaria etc. Sárangadhara recommends the following application² in urticaria. Take of mustard seed, turmeric, *pátchuk* root, sesamum and the seeds of *Cassia Tora* (*chakramardaka*), equal parts, and rub them together into a paste with mustard oil. In gout, sciatica, etc, simple mustard plasters are used.¹ In inflammatory affections, the following poultice is prescribed by Sárangadhara. Take of the root of *Boerhaavia diffusa* (*punarnavá*), wood of *Berberis Asiatica* (*dáruharidrá*), root of *Moringa pterygosperma* (*sobhánjana*), ginger and mustard seeds, equal parts, and rub them into a paste with fermented rice water.²

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² सिद्धार्थ रजनीकुष्ठप्रपुन्नाटतिलैः सह । कटुतैलेन संमिश्रमुद्वर्त्तं विलेपनम् । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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¹ गौरसर्षपकल्केन प्रदेहोवा रुजापहैः । भावप्रकाशः ।

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² पुनर्नवाद दारुशठों सिद्धार्थं प्रियुमेवच। पिष्ट्वाचवारनालेन प्रलेपः सव्व-शोषहा । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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LEPIDIUM SATIVUM. The seeds of *Lepidium Sativum*, called *Chandra sura* in Sanskrit, and *Hálim* in Hindi, are described as tonic and alterative, and useful in hiccup, diarrhœa, and skin diseases from disordered blood. It is said to be a very efficacious remedy in hiccup, for which the Bhávaprakása gives the following formula. *Hálim* seeds are macerated in eight times their weight of water; when the seeds are softened they are rubbed in the water, and the emulsion strained through cloth. This emulsion is recommended to be given frequently in doses of about an ounce for the relief of obstinate hiccup.³

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³ चन्द्रसूर रसः । चन्द्रसूरस्य बीजानि द्विपेदगुणे जले । यदा मृदूनि मृदीयात्ततोवाससि गाळयेत् ॥ हिक्कातिवेगविकळस्तज्जलं पलमात्रया । पिबेत् पिबेत् पुनश्चापि हिक्कावश्यं प्रगामप्रति ॥ भावप्रकाशः ।

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NAT. ORDER. CAPPARIDACEÆ.

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CRATÆVA RELIGIOSA.

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*Syn.* *Capparis trifoliata*. Rox.

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*Sans.* वरुण, *Varuna*. अश्मरिघ्न, *Asmarighna*.

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*Vern.* *Barun*, Beng. Hind.

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THE bark of the stem and root of this plant constitutes the principal medicine of the Hindu Pharmacopœia, for calculous affections. It is said to promote the appetite, increase the secretion of the bile, act as a laxative and remove disorders of the urinary organs.

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In calculous affections it is used in a great variety of forms. Thus a simple decoction of the bark may be given with the addition of treacle.¹ A compound decoction is prepared along with equal parts of *Tribulus terrestris* (*gokshura*) and ginger, and is administered with the addition of *yavakshára* and honey.² A compound powder called *Varunádya churna*³ is prepared as follows. A solution of the ashes of *varuna* is made as directed under the head of alkaline water (*Kshárodaka*). This solution is boiled with the addition of *varuna* bark in powder and *yavakshára* (impure carbonate of potash), till the water is entirely evaporated. The resulting powder is given in ascites, calculus, enlargements of the abdominal viscera, and affections of the bladder and uterus. A confection called *Varunádya guḍa* is prepared by adding to the fluid extract of the bark, treacle and a number of diuretic and aromatic substances.

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¹ वरुणत्वक्कषायन्तु पीतञ्च गुडसंयुतम् । अश्मरीं पातयत्याशु वस्तिमूल-निवारणम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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² वरुणस्य त्वचं श्रेष्ठां शुण्ठीगोक्षुरसंयुताम् । यवक्षारागुडं दत्त्वा काथयित्वा पिबेद्धिताम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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³ वरुणभस्मपरिस्रुत सलिलं तच्चूर्णं यावशुश्रुतम् । कथनेयं तत्तावद्याव-च्छुत्वमायाति । तदगुड़युक्तं हन्यात् तदुदारमश्मरीं घोराम् । प्लीहानं गुल्मवरं श्रोणयां कुक्षिरुजां तीब्राम् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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*Varunádya ghrita*.⁴ Take of coarsely powdered *varuna* bark twelve seers and a half, water sixty-four seers, boil together till reduced to one-fourth and strain. To the strained decoction, add four seers of clarified butter, and two tolás each of the following substances in the form of a paste, namely, *varuna* bark, unripe splantains, bela fruit, the five roots called trinaja pancha mulaka (see Sugar cane), gulancha, leaves of Coleus aromaticus (asmabheda), cucumber seeds, Acorus Calamus root, bamboo-manna, the ashes of Sesamum Indicum (tila), and of Butea frondosa (palása) and the root of Jasminum auriculatum (juthiká). Boil them together and prepare a ghrita in the usual way. It may be given in doses of one to two tolás, according to the constitution of the patient. After this medicine is digested, butter-milk and treacle should be taken.

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⁴ वरुणाद्यघृतम् । वरुणस्य तुलां शुष्कां जलद्रोणे विपाचयेत् । पादशेषं परिस्राव्य घृतप्रस्थं विपाचयेत् । वरुणं कदलीं बिल्वं तृणजं पञ्चमूलकम् । अमृताचाभ्रसंजं देयं बीजञ्च लघुपञ्चवम् । शतपर्वातिलचारं पलाशक्षारमेवच । यूथिकायाश्च मूलानि कार्षिकाणि समावपेत् । अस्य मात्रां पिबेज्जन्तुर्दशका-लाद्यपेक्षया । जीर्णे तस्मिन् पिबेत् पूर्वं गुडं जीर्णन्त मस्तुना । अश्मरीं शर्कराञ्चैव मूत्रकृच्छ्रञ्च नाशयेत् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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Varunádya taila.¹ This is an oil prepared with varuna bark, for injection into the bladder. Take of varuna bark and of the entire plant of Tribulus terrestris (gokshura), two seers each, water sixty-four seers, boil together till reduced to one-fourth and strain. Boil this strained decoction with four seers of prepared sesamum oil and half a seer each, of the above mentioned drugs in the form of paste. This oil is recommended to be injected into the bladder, for the relief of painful micturition, calculus and gravel.

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¹ वरुणायं तैलम् । त्वक्पत्रमूलपुष्पस्य वरुणस्यत्विकण्टकात् । कषायेण पचेत्तैलं वस्तिना स्थापनेन च । शर्कराश्मरीशूलघ्नं मूत्रकृच्छ्रनिवारणम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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In scrofulous enlargement of the glands under the lower jaw, a decoction² of varuna bark is prescribed by several writers. It is said to cure even old standing cases. In internal or deep seated suppurative inflammation, a decoction of varuna and Boerhaavia diffusa (punarnavá) is given internally.³

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² काञ्चनारत्वचः काथः शुण्ठीचूर्णेन नाशयेत् । गण्डमालां तथा काथः क्षौद्रेण वरुणत्वचः । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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³ पुनर्नवावरुणयोः काथोऽन्तर्विद्रधिञ्जयेत् । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

Nat. Order. Moringaceæ

Moringa Pterygosperma

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Sans. शोभाञ्जन, Sobhánjana. शिग्रु, Sigru.

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THIS plant is cultivated all over the country for the sake of it's leaves, flowers, and seed vessels which are used by the natives in their curries. The root is described as acrid, pungent, stimulant and diuretic. Applied externally it acts as a rubefacient. The seeds are described as acrid and pungent and are used externally as a stimulant. They are called Sveta maricha that is white pepper. The Bhávaprakása describes two varieties of sobhánjana, namely, white and red. The root of the white variety is said to be a stronger rubefacient, while that of the red, is preferred for internal use, for promoting the appetite and acting on the excretions.

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In ascites and enlarged spleen, a decoction¹ of the root-bark of Moringa pterygosperma and the leaves of Rumex vesicarius (amlaloniká) is given with the addition of long pepper, black pepper and rock salt in powder. In enlarged spleen and liver, a decoction of the root-bark is recommended to be given with the addition of plumbago root, rock salt and long pepper, or of the ashes of Butea frondosa (palása), or of yavakshára (impure carbonate of potash).²

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¹ पीतः प्लीहोदरं हन्यात्पिप्पलीमरिचन्वितः । अम्लवेतससंयुक्तः शिग्रुक्वाथः ससैन्धवः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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² शोभाञ्जननिर्यूहं सैन्धवाग्निकणान्वितम् । पलाशक्षारयुक्तं वा यवक्षारं प्रयोजयेत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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In internal and deep seated inflammation and abscess (vidradhi) a decoction of the root-bark is recommended to be given with the addition of assafœtida and rock salt.³ The expressed juice of the root-bark is also given in these cases, with the addition of honey or rock salt.⁴ The root-bark is used externally in the shape of plaster, and the inflamed part is fomented with its decoction.⁵

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³ शोभाञ्जन निर्यूहोहिक्कासैन्धवसंयुतः । अचिरं विद्रधिं हन्ति प्रातः-प्रतिनिषेवितः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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⁴ शिग्रुमूलं जले धौतं दरपिष्ठं प्रपाययेत् । तद्वसंमधुना पीत्वा हन्त्यन्तर्विद्रधिं नरः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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⁵ स्वेदोपनाहाः कर्त्तव्याः शिग्रुमूलसमन्विताः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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In calculous affections the decoction of the root-bark is given internally.¹

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¹ कायस्थ शिग्रुमूलोत्थः कटुष्णोऽश्मरीघातनः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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The seeds of *Moringa pterygosperma* enter into the composition of some stimulant applications. The following is an illustration. Take of the seeds of *Moringa pterygosperma*, rock salt, mustard seeds and putchuk root, equal parts, and reduce them to a paste with goat's urine. When dried this is used as a snuff for rousing comatose or drowsy persons.² The fresh juice of the root bark is recommended to be poured into the ears, for the relief of otalgia. The gum of the tree mixed with sesamum oil, is also used for the same purpose.³

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² सैन्धवं श्वेतमरिचं सर्षपाः कुष्ठमेव च । वस्तमूत्रेण संपिष्टं तन्द्राखसं निदारणम् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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³ शोभाञ्जननिर्यास्तैलतेलेन संयुतः । व्यक्तेोष्णः पूरणः कर्णे कर्णमूलोपशान्तये । चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER. GUTTIFERÆ.

Mesua Ferrea

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*Sans.* नागकेशर, *Nágakesara*. *Vern.* Nágkesar. *Beng.* *Hind.*

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THE dried flowers of *Mesua ferrea* are much used as a fragrant adjunct to decoctions and oils. They are regarded as astringent and stomachic and useful in thirst, irritability of the stomach, excessive perspiration etc. A paste of the flowers with the addition of butter and sugar is recommended by most of the later writers, to be taken in bleeding piles.⁴ The powdered flowers mixed with old clarified butter, that has been washed a hundred times in water, are said to be an effectual application in burning of the feet.⁵

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⁴ नवनीतसितैः कल्कोजेतारक्तार्शसां स्मृतः । नवनीतसितानागकेशरस्यापि तद्विधः । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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⁵ नागकेशरचूर्णं वा शतधौतेन सर्पिषा । पिष्टा लेपो विधातव्योदाहे हर्षेच पादयोः । चक्रदत्तः ।

Nat. Order. Dipterocarpeæ

Shorea Robusta

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*Sans.* शाल, *Sála*, अश्वकर्ण, *Asvakarna*.

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THE resin of *Shorea robusta*, called *Rála* in Sanskrit and *Dhuná* or *rál*, in the vernacular, is regarded as astringent and detergent and is used in dysentery, and for fumigations, plasters, etc. The resin thrown over the fire, gives out thick volumes of fragrant smoke, and is much used for fumigating rooms occupied by the sick. It is also a common practice with natives to burn some *rál* in their rooms every evening, about the time that *chirags* or lamps are lighted, as also during the worship of idols.

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In the dysentery of children *rál* is recommended to be given in doses of about twenty grains, with an equal quantity of sugar or treacle.¹

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¹ श्वेतोवा यदि वा रक्तःशुक्को यह्णीगदः गुड़ नाधिकसर्जेन भच्चतेनाशुनश्यति । भावप्रकाशः ।

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*Rál* enters into the composition of some plasters and ointments. The following is an illustration. Take of *rál*, rock salt, treacle, wax, honey, bdellium, red ochre and clarified butter, in equal parts, boil them together and prepare an ointment.²

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² सिन्धुसम्भवगुड़मधुमहिशाज्यगैरकं सहतम् । सिक्यकमेतत्यकं पाट्स्फुट-नापहं सिद्धम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

Nat. Order. Malvaceae

Sida Cordifolia

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*Sans.* बला, *Balá*. बाट्यालक, *Bátyálaka*. *Vern.* *Berela*, Beng. *Khareti*, Hind.

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FOUR varietes of *balá* are mentioned by Sanskrit writers, namely, *Bátyálaka*, (*Sida cordifolia*). *Mahábalá*, (*Sida rhomboidea*)∗ *Atibalá*, (*Sida rhombifolia*). *Nágabalá*, (*Sida alba*). The roots of all these species, are regarded as cooling, astringent, tonic and useful in nervous diseases, urinary diseases and disorders of the blood and bile. In intermittent fever, a decoction of the root of *Sida cordifolia* and ginger is given.¹ It is said to be useful in fevers with cold shivering fits, followed by strong heat of body. The powder of the root-bark is given with milk aud sugar, for the relief of frequent micturition and leucorrhoea.²

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∗ This is only a variety of *Sida rhombifolia*, *L.*

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¹ महाबलामूल महौषधाभ्यां काथो निहन्त्यादिशमज्वरं हि । शीतं सकम्पं परिदाहयुक्तं विनाशयेत् द्विविदिनप्रयोगात् । भावप्रकाशः ।

c5.s6.t1.5

² प्रदरं हन्ति बलाया मूलं दुग्धेन मधुयुतं पीतम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

c5.s6.t1.6

In diseases of the nervous system, such as insanity, paralysis, facial palsy, etc. the root of *Sida cordifolia* is used alone or in combination with other medicines, as in the following, called *Másha baládi kvátha*.³ Take of the pulse of *Phaseolus Roxburghii* (*másha*), root-bark of *Sida cordifolia* (*balá*), root of castor oil plant and of *Mucuna pruriens* (*átmaguptá*), *Hygrophila polysperma* (*katrina*), *Vanda Roxburghii* (*rásná*), and *Withania somnifera* (*asvagandhá*), equal parts, in all two tolas, and prepare a decoction in the usual way. It is administered with the addition of assafœtida and rock salt, in hemiplegia, stiff neck, facial paralysis, and noise in the ears with headache. An oil for external application in these diseases, called *Balátaila*⁴ is thus prepared. Take of the root of *Sida cordifolia*, four seers, water, thirty-two seers and boil down to eight seers. To this decoction, add eight seers of milk, four seers of prepared sesamum oil, and one seer of the root of *Sida cordifolia* in the form of paste, and prepare an oil in the usual way.

c5.s6.t1.7

³ माषबलादिः । माषबलाशुकशिम्बीकत्थरास्नाश्वगन्धोरुबकाणाम् । काथो नस्यनिपोतोरामलवणान्वितः कोष्णः । अपहरति पक्षवातं मन्यास्तम्भं सकर्णनादरुजम् । दुर्जयमर्हितवातं सप्ताहाज्जियतिचावश्यम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

c5.s6.t1.8

⁴ बलातैलम् । बलानिःकायल्कल्काभ्यां तैलपकं पयोन्वितम् । सर्व्वातविकारघ्नमेवं धैरीयपाचितम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

Bombax Malabaricum

c5.s6.t2.1

Sans. शाल्मली, Sàlmali, मोचा, Mochá.

c5.s6.t2.2

Vern. Simul, Rakta Simul. Beng.

c5.s6.t2.3

“THIS is one of the largest of our Indian trees, often about one hundred feet high and the trunk thick and ramous in proportion. Flowering time the end of winter, when the tree is totally destitute of leaves. The great numbers of very large bright red flowers with which it is then covered make it remarkably conspicuous at a very great distance.” The thick stems are used for making large boats called kondas, from their being made by hollowing out the trunks. Some of these boats are large enough to carry a freight of a thousand maunds. The smaller floats are in very common use in Eastern Bengal, for crossing over rice fields during the rainy season. In fact during the rains these little floats, constitute the only mode of conveyance from village to village in low alluvial tracts. The thick beds and pillows of the natives are stuffed with the Cotton attached to the interior of the seed vessels of this plant, while the thin quilts and stuffed clothing for winter, are made with kárpása (cotton of Gossypium herbaceum).

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