The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s10.t6.3

c5.s10.t6.3

"THIS plant is remarkable for its small egg-shaped seeds, which are of a brilliant scarlet colour with a black scar indicating the place where they were attached to the pods." Sanskrit writers mention two varieties, namely, white and red seeded. The properties of both are said to be identical. The seeds are described as poisonous, and are used internally in affections of the nervous system and externally in skin diseases, ulcers, affections of the hair, etc. The root of the plant is described as emetic and useful in poisoning. The seeds constitute the ratti weight used by Hindu jewellers and druggists. Ninety-six rattis make one tolá or rupee.