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The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s12: Nat. Order Cucurbitaceæ

The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s12

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Nat. Order Cucurbitaceæ

Benincasa Cerifera, Savi.

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*Syn. Cucurbita Pepo, Roxb.*

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*Sans.* कुष्माण्ड, *Kushmánda. Vern. Kumrá, Beng. Pethá, Hind.*

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The large fruit or gourd of *Benincasa cerifera* is eaten by the natives in their curries, and is extensively cultivated all over India. It is considered tonic, nutritive and diuretic, and a specific for hæmoptysis and other hæmorrhages from internal organs. It would appear that the older Sanskrit writers were not acquainted with its peculiar action on the circulatory system by which it rapidly puts a check to hæmorrhage from the lungs. The Rája Nirghantu, the oldest work on therapeutics, gives a long account of its virtues, but does not allude to its use in phthisis or hæmoptysis. Neither does Susruta mention it in his chapters on the treatment of hæmorrhage and phthisis, though the plant is alluded to by him elsewhere. The more recent compilations, such as Chakradatta Sangraha, Sárangadhara etc. give numerous preparations of the article and detail its uses.

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*Khaṇḍa kushmándaka*,¹ or confection of squash. In preparing this medicine, old ripe gourds are selected. Those not at least a year old, are not approved. They are longitudinally divided into two halves and the pulp scraped out in thin flakes by an iron comb or scratcher. The watery juice that oozes out abundantly during this process is preserved, the seeds being rejected. The pulp is boiled in the above mentioned juice, till softened. It is then tied up tightly in a cloth, and the fluid portion allowed to strain through it. The softened and drained pulp is dried in the sun and the watery portion preserved for future use. Fifty tolás of the prepared pulp are fried in sixteen tolás of clarified butter, and again boiled in the juice of the fruit, till reduced to the consistence of honey. To this are added fifty tolás of refined sugar, and the whole is heated over a gentle fire, till the mass assumes such a consistence as to adhere to the ladle. The pot is now removed from the fire, and the following substances, namely, long pepper and ginger, each two tolás, cumin seeds, cardamoms, cinnamon, leaves called tejapatra, black pepper and coriander, each half a tolás in fine powder, are aded to the syrup and stirred briskly with a ladle, till the mass is cool. Eight tolás of honey are now added to the confection which is preserved in a new earthen pot. The dose of this medicine is from one to two tolás, according to the age and strength of the patient. It is useful in hæmoptysis, phthisis, marasmus, cough, asthma, ulceration of the lungs, hoarseness, etc.

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¹ खण्डकुष्माण्डकः। कुष्माण्डकात्पलशतं सुस्विन्नं निष्कुलीकृतम् । पचेत्तप्ते घृतप्रस्थे शनैस्ताम्रसमे दृढे । यदा मधुनिभः पाकस्तदाखण्डशतं न्यसेत् । पिप्पली शृङ्गवेराभ्यां द्वे पले जीरकस्य च । त्वगेलापत्रमरिचधान्यानां पलाईकम् । न्यसेच्चूर्णितं तत्र द्रव्यांसघट्टयेन्मृदुः । तत्पकां स्थापयेद्भाण्डे दत्वाक्षौद्रं घृताष्टकम् । तद्यथाग्निबलं खादेद्रक्तपित्तजित्तक्षयी । कासश्वासतमस्कर्हि तृष्णाज्वरनिपीडितः । वृष्यं पुनर्नवकरं बलवर्णप्रसाधनम् । उरः सन्धानकरणं हृद्यं स्वरशोधनम् । आभ्यां निर्मितं सिद्धं कुष्माण्डकरसाय-नम् । खण्डामलक्रमानानुसारत्कुष्माण्डकत्वात् । पात्रं पाकाय दातव्यं यावान्वातरसो भवेत् । अत्रापि सुद्रयापाको निस्त्वचं निष्कुलीकृतम् ।

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Vásá kushmánda khanda.¹ Take of the root of Justicia Adhatoda (vásaka), one seer, water eight seers; boil together till reduced to one-fourth and strain. Then take of the pulp of Benincasa cerifera, prepared as above described, fifty tolás; fry it in thirty-two tolás of clarified butter, and boil in the decoction of vásaka till the whole is reduced to the consistence of honey. Add to it sugar, one hundred tolás, and apply heat till the mass thickens to the proper consistence. Remove from the fire, add the following substances in fine powder, namely, tubers of Cyperus rotundus, (mustaka), dried emblic myrobalan, bamboo manna, root of Clerodendron Siphonanthus (brahmayasti), a fragrant substance called elabáluka, cinnamon, cardamom, tejapatra, each quarter of a tolá, ginger, coriander, and black pepper each one tolá, long pepper, four tolás, stir well till the confection cools, and lastly add eight tolás of honey. This preparation is used in cough, asthma, phthisis, hæmoptysis, heart disease, and catarrh.

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¹ वासाखण्डकुष्माण्डकः। पञ्चाशत्पलं स्विन्नं कुष्माण्डात्प्रस्थमाज्यतः। पाद्यं पलशतं खण्डं वासाकायाढके पचेत्। सुगन्धावी शुभाभार्गी त्रिसुग- न्धैश्च कार्षिकैः। ऐलेय विश्वधन्वाकभरिचैश्च पलांशकैः। पिप्पलीकुडवैश्चैव मधु- मानीं प्रदापयेत्। कासं श्वासं क्षयं हिक्कां रक्तपित्तं ह्यभीभकम्। हृद्रोगम- म्लपित्तञ्च पीनसञ्च व्यपोहति।

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In insanity, epilepsy and other nervous diseases, the fresh juice of the squash is given either with sugar or as an adjunct to other medicines for these diseases. A ghrita for use in these diseases is also prepared as follows.

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Kushmándaka ghrita.¹ Take of the juice of Benincasa cerifera eighteen seers, clarified butter, one seer, liquorice root beaten into a paste with water, quarter of a seer. Boil them together and prepare a ghrita in the usual way. Dose, one to two tolás.

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¹ कुष्माण्डकघृतम् । कुष्माण्डकरसे सर्पिराद्यगुणे पचेत् । यद्वाङ्ग- कल्कं तत्पानमपस्मारविनाशनम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

Trichosanthes Dioica, Roxb.

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Sans. पटोल, Patola. Vern. Palwal, Hind.

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The Trichosanthes dioica is extensively cultivated as an article of food in Bengal. The unripe fruits are much used by the natives as a culinary vegetable and are considered very wholesome and especially suited for the convalescent. In fact they constitute one of the most palatable vegetables grown in this country. The tender tops are also used as a pot-herb and are regarded as tonic and vermifuge.

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The leaves, fresh juice of the fruits and the root are all used medicinally. The leaves are described as a good, light and agreeable bitter tonic. The fresh juice of the unripe fruit is often used as a cooling and laxative adjunct to some alterative medicines such as the preparation called Rasa sindura, etc. The bulbous root is called Ramyaka in Sanskrit and is classified amongst purgatives by Susruta.

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In bilious fever, a decoction of patola leaves and coriander, in equal parts, is given as a febrifuge and laxative.² The leaves enter into the composition of several compound decoctions for fever. The following called *Paṭoládi kvátha* is an illustration. Take of *paṭola* leaves, red sandal wood, root of *Sanseviera Zeylanica* (*murvá*), *Picrorrhiza Kurroa* (*katuki*), *Stephania hernandifolia* (*páṭhá*) and *gulancha*, each one drachm, water half a seer, boil together till reduced to one-fourth.¹

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² दीपनं कफविच्छेदि वातपित्तानुलोमनम् ज्वरघ्नं पाचनभेदितं धान्य- पटोलयोः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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¹ पटोलं चन्दनं मूर्वा तिक्ता पाठाऽमृता गणः। पित्तश्लेष्मरुचिहृत् ज्वर-कण्डूविषापहः। चक्रदत्तः।

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*Paṭola* enters into the composition of several compound decoctions for boils and other skin diseases for which it is considered a very efficacious remedy. The following is an illustration. Take of *paṭola* leaves, *gulancha*, *mustaka*, *chiretá*, *nim* bark, catechu, root-bark of *Justicia Adhatoda* (*vásaka*), and *Oldenlandia herbacea* (*parpaṭa*), equal parts, in all two tolás, and prepare a decoction in the usual way. This decoction is regarded as a valuable alterative, tonic and febrifuge.²

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² पटोलामृतभूनिम्ब वासकारिष्टपर्पटैः। खदिराद्युतैः काथो विस्फोटा-च्छिस्वरापहः। चक्रदत्तः।

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The root is used in combination with *Ipomœa Turpethum* and other adjuncts as a drastic purgative in jaundice, anasarca and ascites. The following called *Paṭoládya churna* is an illustration. Take of the root of *Trichosanthes dioica* (*paṭola*), turmeric, *báberang* seeds, *kamalá* powder, and the three myrobalans, two tolás each, cinnamon, and the root of the indigo plant, three tolás each, *Ipomœa Turpethum* (*trivrit*) four tolás; powder the ingredients finely and mix. Dose, about one drachm with cow's urine. After the use of this medicine, light food only (such as gruel) should be taken.³

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³ पटोलाद्यं चूर्णम्। पटोलमूले रजनी विडङ्गं त्रिफलात्वचम्। कम्पिल्लकं नीलिनोश्च त्रिवृताञ्चेति चूर्णयेत्। षडाद्यान् कार्षिकानन्यांस्त्रींस्त्रींस्तद्वितचतुष्- पाान्। कलाचूर्णं ततोऽष्टेि गवांमूत्रेणनापिबेत्। विरिक्तोऽजाङ्गलज रसैर्भुञ्जीतलघु- भोजनम्। मण्डपेयाञ्च पीत्वाच सव्योषं षडहं पयः। श्वतं पिबेत्तु तच्चूर्णंपिवेदेवं पुनः पुनः। हन्तिसर्वोदरान्येवञ्च जातोदकान्यपि। कामलां पाण्डु रोगञ्च श्वयथुञ्चापकर्षति। चक्रदत्तः।

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The fresh juice of the leaves of *Trichosanthes dioica* is recommended by several writers, to be applied to the bald patches of alopecia.¹

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¹ रसस्तिक्तपटोलस्य पत्राणां तद्विलेपनात् । इन्द्रलुप्तापहंलेपमधुनाह्यहती-रसः । भावप्रकाशः ।

Cucumis Melo, Linn.

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*Syn. Cucumis utilissimus, Roxb.* *Sans.* कर्कटी, *Karkaṭi. Vern. Kánkur, Beng. Kákri, Hind.*

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The seeds of this useful species of *Cucumis* are described as cooling, edible, nutritive and diuretic, and are used in painful micturition and suppression of urine. Two drachms of the seeds rubbed into a pulp with water, are given alone or in combination with salt and *kánjika*.²

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² कल्कमेर्वारुबीजानामक्षमात्रं ससैन्धवम् । धान्याम्लयुक्तं पीत्वैवमूत्राघा-तादिहृच्यते । चक्रदत्तः ।

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The seeds of *Cucumis sativa*, (*Sans.* त्रपुष, *Trapusha. Vern. Khirá, Hind.*) and of *Benincasa cerifera* (*Sans. Kushmánda.*) are also used as diuretics like those of *Cucumis utilissimus*.³

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³ कुष्माण्डस्य तुबीजानि बीजानि त्रपुसस्य च । बस्तौसञ्चारयेत्तेन प्रशस्येन्मूत्र नियहः । भावप्रकाशः ।

Coccinia Indica, W. & A.

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*Syn. Momordica monodelpha, Roxb. Sans.* बिम्ब, *Vimba, Vern. Telákuchá, Beng.* The expressed juice of the thick tap-root of this plant is used by the leading native Kavirájas of Calcutta, as an adjunct to the metallic preparations prescribed by them in diabetes. I have not found this use of the plant noticed in any written work, but I know several patients who have taken the juice of the root along with *Vangesvara* or *Somanátha rasa* and who were benefitted by the use of these remedies. I am inclined to think that the juice of the root of this plant probably acts beneficially in some way. It is very desirable that its therapeutic action should be tested. The expressed juice is directed to be taken in doses of one tola along with a pill, every morning.

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CITRULLUS COLOCYNTHIS, Schrad. *Syn. Cucumis Colocynthis, Linn.* *Sans.* इन्द्रवारुणी, *Indraváruni. Vern. Indráyan. Hind.*

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INDIAN colocynth is common on the lower slopes of the Western Himalaya and also on the plains of the drier parts of India. It is procurable in the bazars of the North-West Provinces under the name of *indráyan*. The pulp of the fruit is described as bitter, acrid, cathartic, and useful in biliousness, constipation, fever and worms. The root of the plant is considered cathartic and useful in jaundice, ascites, enlargements of the abdominal viscera, urinary diseases, rheumatism, etc.

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*Jvaraghni guṭiká*.¹ Take of mercury one part; sulphur, colocynth pulp, cardamoms, long pepper, chebulic myrobalan, and pellitory root, each four parts. Rub these ingredients with the juice of *indraváruni* root and make into pills weighing about twenty grains each. These pills are administered with the fresh juice of *gulancha* in recent fever. They move the bowels and reduce the fever.

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¹ ज्वरघ्नीगुटिका। भागैकः स्याद्रसाच्छुद्धादेकोयः पिप्पलीशिवा। अकार- करभोगन्ध कटुतेलेनशोधितः। फलानिचेन्द्रवारुण्याश्चतुर्भागमिताक्षमी। एक- समर्दयेच्चूर्णमिन्द्रवारुणिकारसैः। काषोन्मितांवटीकृत्वा दद्यात्सद्यज्वरेभिषक्। इतिज्वरसानुपानेनज्वरघ्नीगुटिका मता। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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An oil prepared from the seeds of Indian colocynth, is used for blackening grey hairs. A poultice of the root is said to be useful in inflammation of the breasts.²

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² इन्द्रवारुणिकाबीजतैलेनस्याङ्कमाचरेत्। प्रत्यहन्तेन कालाग्निसन्निभा- कुन्तलावलम्। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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NAT. ORDER UMBELLIFERÆ.

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The following aromatic fruits belonging to this natural order, are noticed by Sanskrit writers and are used in medicine or as condiments by the natives.

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*यमानि, Yamáni. Ptychotis A'jowan,*∗ *DC. Vern. A'jowan Hind.* *वनयमानि, Vanayamáni. Seseli Indicum, W. & A. Vern. Banjoán, B.*

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∗ Now included in the genus *Carum* by Hooker and Bentham.

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अजमोदा, *Ajamodá*. *Carum Roxburghianum*, Benth. *Vern.* A'jmad, Hind. *Rándhuni*, Beng.

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जीरक, *Jiraka*. *Cuminum Cyminum*, Linn. *Vern.* Jirá, Beng.

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सुषवि, *Sushavi*. *Carum Carui*, Linn. *Vern.* Shiá jirá, Hind.

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मधुरिका, *Madhuriká*. *Fœniculum vulgare*, Gærtn. *Mauri*, Beng. *Sonf*, Hind.

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मिश्रेया, *Misreyá*. *Anethum Sowa*,* Roxb. *Vern.* Sulphá, B. Sowá, H.

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धन्याक, *Dhanyáka*. *Coriandrum sativum*, Linn. *Vern.* Dhaniá, H.

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PTYCHOTIS AJOWAN. The seeds of Ptychotis Ajowan have an aromatic smell and warm pungent taste. They are used for culinary purposes, as spices along with betel nuts and pan leaves, and as a carminative medicine. A tea spoonful of ájowan with a little rock salt, is a common domestic remedy for indigestion from irregular diet. The following compound powder is used in cases of colic or pain in the bowels. Take of ájowan, rock salt, sonchal salt, yavakshára, assafœtida, and chebulic myrobalan, equal parts; powder the ingredients and mix. Dose, grains ten to twenty, to be taken with wine.¹ A'jowan, taken daily with treacle, is said to cure urticaria within a week.² A'jowan, as well as the seeds of *Seseli Indicum* (*vanajamáni*), are much used as aromatic adjuncts in compound prescriptions.

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¹ यमानो हिङ्गु सिन्धूत्य चार सौवर्चलाभयाः। सुरामण्डेन पातव्या गुल्मशूल निवारणाः। चक्रदत्तः।

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² सगुडं दीप्यकं यस्तु खादेत् पञ्चाह मण्डरः। तस्य नश्यति सप्ताहदूर्द्धं सव्वैदेहजः। चक्रदत्तः।
* Anethum is reduced by Drs. Hooker and Bentham to Peucedanum.

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CARUM ROXBURGHIANUM. The seeds of *Carum Roxburghianum* (*ajamodá*) are an essential ingredient of native cookery, They are said to be useful in hiccup, vomiting and pain in the region of the bladder. They enter into the composition of several carminative and stimulant preparations, such as the *Ajamodádi churna* (see *Argyreia speciosa*), etc.

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CUMINUM CYMINUM. Cumin seeds form an ingredient of some curry powders and pickles used by the natives. They are regarded as stomachic, carminative, astringent and useful

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1 यमानो हिङ्गु सिन्धूत्य चार सौवर्चलाभयाः। सुरामण्डेन पातव्या गुल्मशूल निवारणाः। चक्रदत्तः।

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2 सगुडं दीप्यकं यस्तु खादेत् पञ्चाह मण्डरः। तस्य नश्यति सप्ताहदूर्द्धं सव्वैदेहजः। चक्रदत्तः।

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in dyspepsia, diarrhœa, etc. A confection of cumin seeds is prepared as follows:

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Jirakádi modaka. Take of the three myrobalans, tubers of *Cyperus rotundus* (*mustaka*), watery extract of gulancha, prepared talc, flowers of *Mesua ferrea* (*nágakesara*), leaves called *tejapatra*, cinnamon, cardamoms, cloves, coriander, ginger, long pepper, *Oldenlandia herbacea* (*parpaṭi*), root of *Andropogon muricatum* (*usira*), *Pavonia odorata* (*bálá*), and *Plumbago Zeylanica* (*chitraka*), each one part, cumin seed, nineteen parts or equal in weight to all the other ingredients; powder them all and mix. Add two parts of sugar to one of the powder and make into a confection with honey and clarified butter. Dose, one drachm. This medicine is prescribed in chronic diarrhœa and dyspepsia with loss of appetite.

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Jirakádya taila.¹ Take of powdered cumin seeds, eight tolás, minium or red lead, four tolás, prepared mustard oil three seers, water twelve seers, boil them together in the usual way for the preparation of medicinal oils. This oil is used in eczema.

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¹ जीरकाद्यं तैलम् । जीरकस्य पलं पिष्टं सिन्दुराईपलं तथा । कटुतैलं पचेदाभ्यां सर्व्वामापहरं परम् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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A poultice made of cumin seeds, with the addition of honey, salt and clarified butter, is recommended to be applied to scorpion bites.²

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² जीरकस्य कृतः कल्को घृतसैन्धव संयुतः। सुखोष्णो मधुना लेपो वृश्चिकस्य विषं हरेत् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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FŒNICULUM VULGARE. Fennel seeds are largely used as a condiment. In medicine they are chiefly used as an aromatic adjunct to other articles. Distilled fennel water is prepared and sold in India, under the name of *A'rak bádian*, and is used as a domestic carminative.

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CARUM CARUI. The fruits called *shiá jirá* in the vernacular, do not appear to differ from European caraway. The plant grows wild largely in the “high alpine region of Lahul in the Western Himalaya,” but is rare in the plains. The fruits contain a volatile oil and are used as a carminative like cumin seeds.

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CORIANDRUM SATIVUM. Coriander is largely used by the natives as a condiment and along with betel nuts and *pán* leaves. It is described as carminative, refrigerent, diuretic, tonic and aphrodisiac. A cold infusion of coriander is given with sugar for the relief of internal heat and thirst.¹ A decoction of coriander and ginger is given in dyspepsia and indigestion. Coriander enters into the composition of numerous cooling and carminative medicines. The fresh leaves of the plant are pungent and aromatic. They are used for preparing a sauce or *chátni*, in the same way as the leaves of spearmint (*pudiná*).²

c5.s12.t4.34

¹ प्रातः सन्नकरः पेयोहिमोधन्याकसम्भवः । चन्नदाहं तथातृष्णां जयेच्छ्रतोविशोधनः । भावप्रकाशः ।

c5.s12.t4.35

² धान्यानागर सिद्धन्तु तोयं दद्यादिचक्षुः । आमाजीर्ण दीपनं प्रशमनं वस्तिशोधनम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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FERULA ASSAFŒTIDA, Linn.

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Sans. हिङ्गु, Hingu. Vern. Hing, Beng. Hind.

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SANSKRIT writers describe assafœtida as an exudation from the root of the assafœtida plant which is indigenous to Persia, Khorasan and Multan.∗ Assafœtida is regarded as a stimulant and carminative and is much used in dyspepsia, flatulence, colic, and diseases of the nervous system. It is fried before being used internally. Raw or unfried assafœtida is said to cause vomiting.

c5.s12.t4.39

∗ Not now found at Multan. G. K.

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*Hingvashtaka churna*.³ Take of fried assafœtida, ginger, long pepper, black pepper, *ájowan*, cumin seeds, nigella seeds and rock salt, equal parts; reduce them to powder and mix. Dose, ten to twenty grains, to be taken with the first morsel of rice and clarified butter taken at breakfast. Thus administered, it is said to increase the appetite and digestive powers and to cure flatulence. Some writers recommend the above powder to be made into pills with lemon juice.

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³ हिङ्ग्वष्टकं चूर्णम् । त्रिकटुक मजमोदा सैन्धवं जीरके द्वे समधरण घृतानामष्टहिङ्गुभागः । प्रथम कवडभुक्ता सर्पिषा चूर्णमेतज्जनयति जठराग्निं वातरोगंश्च हन्यात् । भैषज्य रत्नावली ।

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In the flatulence of infants a powder composed of assafœtida, rock salt, cardamoms, ginger, and the root of *Clerodendron Siphonanthus* (*bhárgi*), in equal parts, is prescribed by several writers.¹ In flatulent colic with costiveness, a suppository made of assafœtida, rock salt and honey, and smeared over with clarified butter, is introduced into the rectum.²

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¹ एतेन सिन्धुविश्वैर्वा हिङ्गुभार्गीजोधिहन् । आनाहं वातिकं मूढं जयेत्तोयेन वा शिशुः । चक्रदत्तः ।

c5.s12.t4.44

² हिङ्गुमाक्षिक सिन्धूत्थैः पक्वावर्त्ति सुनिर्मिताम् । घृताभ्यां गुदेदद्याद्-दावर्त्त विनाग्नीनीम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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In hemiplegia, stiff-neck, facial palsy, sciatica and other diseases of the nervous system, fried assafœtida is given along with a compound decoction called *Máshabaládi*, (see *Phaseolus Roxburghii*). A bit of warm assafœtida, placed in the cavity of a carious tooth, is said to relieve pain.³

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³ हिङ्गु सोष्णन्तु मतिमान् क्रिमिदन्तेषु दापयेत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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HYDROCOTYLE ASIATICA, *Linn.* *Sans.* मण्डुकपर्णी, *Mandukaparni*. *Vern.* Thalkuri, *Beng.* Bráhmamanduki, *Hind.* The properties of this plant are said to resemble those of *Bráhmi* (*Herpestes Monniera*), both being regarded as alterative, tonic, and useful in diseases of the skin, nervous system and blood. The fresh juice of the leaves is given with milk and liquorice powder, as an alterative tonic.⁴

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⁴ मण्डुकपर्ण्याः स्वरसः प्रयोज्यः क्षीरेण यष्टीमधुकस्य चूर्णम् । रसो गुडूच्यास्तु समलपुष्पाः कल्कः प्रयोज्यः खलुशङ्खपुष्पाः । आयुः प्रदान्यामयनाशननि मेध्या विशेषतश्च शङ्खपुष्पो । चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER RUBIACEÆ.

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OLDENLANDIA HERBACEA, *DC.* *Syn.* *Oldenlandia biflora, Roxb.* *Sans.* पर्पट, *Parpata*. *Vern.* Khetpárá. *Beng.*

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THE *Oldenlandia herbacea* is a "small, weak, straggling delicate plant, appearing in the rainy season" in fields and low ground

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1 एतेन सिन्धुविश्वैर्वा हिङ्गुभार्गीजोधिहन् । आनाहं वातिकं मूढं जयेत्तोयेन वा शिशुः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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2 हिङ्गुमाक्षिक सिन्धूत्थैः पक्वावर्त्ति सुनिर्मिताम् । घृताभ्यां गुदेदद्याद्-दावर्त्त विनाग्नीनीम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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3 हिङ्गु सोष्णन्तु मतिमान् क्रिमिदन्तेषु दापयेत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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4 मण्डुकपर्ण्याः स्वरसः प्रयोज्यः क्षीरेण यष्टीमधुकस्य चूर्णम् । रसो गुडूच्यास्तु समलपुष्पाः कल्कः प्रयोज्यः खलुशङ्खपुष्पाः । आयुः प्रदान्यामयनाशननि मेध्या विशेषतश्च शङ्खपुष्पो । चक्रदत्तः ।

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on the banks of water courses. The entire plant is used in medicine, and is regarded as a valuable bitter tonic and febrifuge. It enters into the composition of numerous prescriptions for fever, diarrhœa, skin diseases, etc. A simple decoction of the plant is used in bilious fever, with irritability of the stomach or delirium.¹ Parpaṭa enters into the composition of numerous febrifuge and tonic decoctions. The following is an example.

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Panchabhadra.² Take of parpaṭa, tubers of Cyperus rotundus (mustaka), gulancha, chireta and ginger, equal parts, in all two tolás, and prepare a decoction in the usual way. This preparation is much used in fever supposed to be caused by deranged air and bile, that is, remittent fever with gastric irritability, nervousness, etc.

Randia Dumetorum, Linn.

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Sans. मदन, Madana. Vern. Mayin, Hind.

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THE Randia dumetorum is a small thorny tree common in waste places. The fruit when ripe, looks like a small apple, and has a peculiar sweetish, sickly smell. It is described by Sanskrit writers, as the best or safest of emetics. In fact the ancient Hindus depended chiefly upon this drug for causing emesis. One ripe fruit is generally administered for this purpose. It is also used in combination with other medicines, as for example in the following prescription.

c5.s12.t5.3

Pancha kasháya.³ Take of Justicia Adhatoda (vásaka), Acorus Calamus (vachá), nim bark, leaves of Trichosanthes dioica (paṭola), and bark of Aglaia Roxburghiana (priyangu), equal parts, half

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1 एकः पर्पटः श्रेष्ठः पित्तज्वरविनाशनः। किं पुनर्यदियुक्तेत चन्दनो
शीरवालकः। दर्पः।
2 पर्पटाब्दामृताविश्वकिरातैः साधितं जलम्। पञ्चभद्रमिदं ज्ञेयं वातपित्त
ज्वरापहम्। शार्ङ्गधरः।
3 पञ्चकषायः। आटरुषं वचानिम्बं पटोलं फलिनित्वचम्। काथयित्वा-
पिवेत्तोयं वात्तिकन्मदनान्वितम्। काथद्रव्यस्य कुडवं श्रपयित्वा जलाढके।
चतुर्भागावशिष्टन्तु वमनेष्ववचारयेत्। चक्रदत्तः।

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a seer in all, water eight seers; boil them together till reduced to one-fourth. This decoction is given with the addition of the pulp of Randia dumetorum for causing emesis.

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RUBIA CORDIFOLIA, Linn. Syn. Rubia Manjiṣṭa, Roxb.

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Sans. मञ्जिष्ठा, Manjiṣṭhá, Vern. Manjit, Beng. Hind.

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Indian madder, well known as a red dye, is used in medicine chiefly as a colouring agent. All medicated oils are first prepared for use by being boiled with madder. It is regarded as astringent and useful in external inflammations, ulcers and skin diseases. Madder and liquorice root, rubbed into a paste with kánjika, is applied over fractures, to reduce inflammation and swelling. Madder rubbed with honey, is recommended by several writers to be applied to brown spots on the face (pityriasis versicolor).¹

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¹ आलेपनाथं मञ्जिष्ठा मधुकां चाम्लपेषितम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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Manjiṣṭhádya ghrita,² is prepared with clarified butter and a paste composed of equal parts of madder, red sandal wood, and the root of Sanseviera Zeylanica (murvá), and applied to ulcers from burns.

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² मञ्जिष्ठाद्यं घृतम्। मञ्जिष्ठां चन्दनं मूर्वां पिष्टा सर्पिर्विपाचयेत् । सर्व्वेषामग्निदग्धानामेतद्रोपणमिष्यते । चक्रदत्तः ।

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PÆDERIA FŒTIDA, Linn. Sans. प्रसारणी, Prasárani. Vern. Gandhabháduli, Beng. Gandháli, Hind.

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The Pæderia fœtida is a long climbing plant, twining up and over trees. All parts of the plant give off a most offensive odour when bruised. The leaves, boiled and made into soup, are considered wholesome and suitable for the sick and convalescent. The entire plant including stem, leaves and root, is much used both internally and externally in rheumatic affections for which it is regarded as a specific.

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Prasárani leha, or electuary of Pæderia fœtida. Take of the leaves, root and stem of Pæderia fœtida, two seers, water, thirtywo seers, boil till reduced to one-fourth. To the strained decoction add, two seers of treacle, and again boil till reduced to the consistence of a thick syrup. Lastly add powdered ginger, long pepper, black pepper, plumbago root and the root of *Piper Chaba* (*chaviká*), equal parts, in all half a seer. Dose, about one tolá in acute rheumatism.¹

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¹ प्रसारणीलेहः । प्रसारण्यष्टके काथे प्रस्थो गुडरसौमतः । पक्वः पञ्चोषधरजः यश्च स्यादामवातहाः । भावप्रकाशः ।

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Several oils or liniments for external application are prepared with this plant. The following, called *Kubja prasárani taila*,² is largely used by native physicians. Take of the entire plant of *Pæderia fœtida* eight hundred tolás, boil in sixty-four seers of water till reduced to sixteen seers, and strain. To the strained decoction, add sesamum oil, sixteen seers, milk, thirty-two seers, whey and fermented paddy water (*kánjika*), each sixteen seers, and the following substances, namely, root of *Pæderia fœtida*, plumbago root, long pepper root, liquorice, rock salt, *Acorus Calamus* root, dill seeds, bark of *Cedrus Deodara*, root of *Vanda Roxburghii* (*rásná*), *Scindapsus officinalis* (*gajapippali*), jatámánsi root and marking nuts, each two tolás in the form of a paste. First boil the oil with the decoction of *Pæderia fœtida* till the water is nearly evaporated, then boil the oil successively with the addition of milk, whey and *kánjika*, adding the aromatic paste during the last process of boiling. This oil is used externally in rheumatism with contraction and stiffness of the joints. After the application of the oil, the affected parts should be fomented with dry heat.

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² कुब्जप्रसारणी तैलम्। प्रसारणीशतं क्षुद्रं पचेत्तोयार्म्मनेशुभे। पादशिष्टे-समं तैलं दधिदद्यात्कणाञ्जकम् । द्विगुणाञ्च पयोदत्वा कल्कान् दिपल्लिकां-स्तथा । चित्रकं पिप्पलीमूलं मधुकां सैन्धवं वचाम् । शतपुष्पां देवदारु रास्त्रां वारुणपिप्पलीम् । प्रसारण्याश्च मूलानि मांसी भल्लातकानि च । पचेन्मृद्वग्नि-नातैलं वातश्लेष्मामयान् जयेत् । अक्षितिं नरनारीस्थान् वातरोगानपोहति । कुब्जं स्तिमितपङ्गुत्वं गृध्रसीखञ्जकाहितम् । हनुपृष्ठशिरोमीवास्तम्भं वापि-नियच्छति । चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER VALERIANACEÆ.

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NARDOSTACHYS JATAMANSI, DC.

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*Syn.* Valeriana Jatamansi, Jones.

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*Sans.* जटामांसि, Jaṭámánsi. *Vern.* Jaṭámánsi, Beng. Báluchar, Hind.

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THE Nardostachys Jatamansi is a native of the mountains of Northern India and has been used in Hindu medicine from a very ancient period. The fragrant root is considered a nervine tonic, and is much used as an aromatic adjunct in the preparation of medicinal oils and *ghritas*. It does not appear however to have been used internally except as an ingredient of complex prescriptions. In the Pharmacopœia of India it is stated that *jaṭámánsi* enters into the composition of a nostrum highly recommended in the treatment of epilepsy by Susruta. I do not find in Susruta’s work any prescription for epilepsy, containing *jaṭámánsi*, except the following, in which however it can hardly be said to be an active ingredient. Take of the pulse of *Phaseolus Roxburghii* (*kulattha*), barley, jujube fruit, seeds of *Crotolaria juncea* (*sana*), bdellium, *jaṭámánsi* root, the ten drugs collectively called *dasamula* (see *Desmodium gangeticum*), and chebulic myrobalan, equal parts; and prepare a decoction in the usual way. This decoction is recommended to be administered with the addition of clarified butter and goat’s urine.¹

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¹ कुलत्थ यवकोलानि शणबीजं पलङ्कषाम् । जटिलां पञ्चमूल्यौ द्वे पथ्या श्योनाकाख्य यत्नतः । वस्तमूलयुतं सर्पिः पिबेत्तद्वातके हितम् । सुश्रुतः ।

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NAT. ORDER COMPOSITÆ.

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SAUSSUREA AURICULATA, *Bth. et Hf.*

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*Syn.* Aplotaxis auriculata, DC.

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*Sans.* कुष्ठ, Kushṭha. *Vern.* Kur, Páchak. Hind. Beng.

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THE Aplotaxis auriculata is a native of the mountains around Cashmere, and has been used in Hindu medicine from an early age. Its root is described as aromatic, stimulant and useful in cough, asthma, fever, dyspepsia and skin diseases. It enters also into the composition of some pastiles for fumigation.

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Agnimukha churna.¹ Take of assafœtida, one part, Acorus Calamus (vachá) two parts, long pepper, three parts, ginger, four parts, ajowan five parts, chebulic myrobalan, six parts, plumbago root, seven parts, and the root of Aplotaxis auriculata, eight parts. Powder the ingredients, mix and pass the powder through a cloth. Dose, twenty to forty grains with whey or wine in dyspepsia with loss of appetite.

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¹ > अग्निमुखं चूर्णम्। हिङ्गु भागोभवेदेकोवचा च द्विगुणाभवेत्। पिप्पली त्रिगुणाचैव शृङ्गवेरं चतुर्गुणम्। यमानिका पञ्चगुणा षडगुणाच हरीतकी। चित्रकं सप्तगुषितं कूष्ठाष्टगुणं भवेत्। एतदात्हरं चूर्णं पीतमात्रं प्रसन्ना। चूर्णमग्निसुखं नाम न कचित्प्रतिहन्यते। चक्रदत्तः।

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A liniment composed of the root of Aplotaxis auriculata, kánjika and castor oil is recommended by several writers to be applied to the forehead in cephalalgia.² The fried root, mixed with mustard oil, is applied to the scalp in porrigo. Equal parts of the powdered root and of rock salt, mixed with mustard oil and fermented paddy water (kánjika), are rubbed on joints affected with chronic disease.³

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² > कूष्ठमेरण्डतैलेन लेपात्काञ्जिक पेषितम्। शिरोर्त्तिं वातजां हन्यात्पुष्यं वा सुचुकुन्दजम्। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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³ > कूष्ठसैन्धवयोः कल्कस्तुतैलेन समन्वितः। सुखोष्णो मर्द्ने योज्यः खञ्जी शूलनिवारणः। भावप्रकाशः।

Wedelia Calendulacea, Less.

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Syn. *Verbesina calendulacea*, Roxb.

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Sans. भृङ्गराज, *Bhringarája*. केशराज, *Kesarája*.

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Vern. *Kesarája*, Beng. *Bhánrá*, Hind.

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THERE is some confusion between the Sanskrit and vernacular names of Wedelia calendulacea, and Eclipta prostrata. Both these plants are called kesaráj or kesuriá in Bengali, and the two Sanskrit names of bhringarája and kesarája are used as synonyms. The Hindustani term bhángrá, derived from the Sanskrit bhringarája is however generally applied to Wedelia calendulacea, and this is the plant used in medicine at present. The leaves, which have a slight camphoraceous taste, are considered tonic, alterative, and useful in cough, cephalalgia, skin diseases and alopecia. The juice of the leaves is much used as a snuff in cephalalgia, and in soaking various sorts of powders for the preparation of pills.¹ "In tattooing the natives after puncturing the skin, rub the juicy green leaves of *Eclipta prostrata* over the part; which gives the desired indelible colour, namely a deep bluish black." The leaves of both these plants are used in various ways for the purpose of dyeing grey hair and for promoting the growth of hair.

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¹ भृङ्गाजरसः छागीक्षीर तुल्योऽर्कतापितः । सूर्यावर्त्तं निहन्याशु नस्येनैव प्रयोगराट् । भावप्रकाशः ।

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*Játiphaládya churna*.² Take of nutmeg, baberang seeds, plumbago root, flowers of *Tabernæmontana coronaria* (tagara), sesamum seeds, leaves of *Pinus Webbiana* (tálisa), red sandal wood, ginger, cloves, cumin seeds, camphor, chebulic and emblic myrobalans, black pepper, long pepper, bamboo-manna, cinnamon, cardamom, tejapatra, and the flowers of *Mesua ferrea* (nágakesara), each two tolás, powdered leaves of *Wedelia calendulacea*, fifty six tolás, sugar, in quantity equal to all the above ingredients. Powder and mix. Dose, about a drachm. This preparation is said to be useful in phthisis, cough and catarrh.

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² जातोफलाद्यं चूर्णम् । जातोफलं विङ्गानि चित्रकं तगरंत्विाः । तालीस चन्दनं शुण्ठी लवङ्गसपकुञ्चिका । कर्पूरसाभया धात्री मरिचं पिप्पली तुगा । एषा त्वत्समा भागसात्जातक संयुताः । पलानि सप्त भृङ्गायाः सिता सर्व्वसमा मता । चूर्णमेतत् चयं कासं श्वासञ्च ग्रहणीगदम् । अरोचकं प्रतिश्यायं तथाचानल मन्दताम् । एतान् रोगान् निहन्येव वत्त मिन्द्राशनिर्यथा । भावप्रकाशः ।

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*Shaḍbindu taila*.³ Take of sesamum oil, four seers, goat's, milk four seers, juice of *bhringarája* leaves, sixteen seers and prepare an oil with a paste composed of the following substances, namely, root of castor oil plant, and of *Tabernæmontana coronaria* (tagara), dill seeds, *Cœlogyne ovalis* (jivanti), *Vanda Roxburghii* (*rásná*), rock salt, *Wedelia calendulacea* (*bhringarája*), baberang seeds liquorice root, and ginger, in all one seer. Six drops of this oil, drawn in through the nostrils, are said to relieve headache and other affections of the head.

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³ षड्बिन्दु तैलम् । एरण्डमूलं तगरं शताह्वा जीवन्ति रास्ना सहसैन्धवञ्च । भृङ्ग विडङ्ग मधुयष्टिकाच विश्वौषधं कृष्णतिलस्य तैलम् । आजंपयसेनविमि

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*Bhringarája taila.*¹ Take of sesamum oil four seers, juice of *bhringarája* leaves, sixteen seers, iron rust, the three myrobalans and the root of *Ichnocarpus frutescens* (*syámalatá*), reduced to a paste, in all one seer, and prepare an oil in the usual way. This oil is said to remove scurf from the head, turn grey hairs black, and cure alopecia.

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¹ भृङ्गारराज तैलम् । भृङ्गारजरसेनैव लोहकिटफलत्रिकम् । सारिवाच पचेत्कल्कस्तैलं दारुणनाशनम् । अकालपलितं कण्डूमिन्द्रलुप्तञ्च नाशयेत् । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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The fresh juice of the leaves of *Eclipta prostrata*, is rubbed on the shaven scalp for the purpose of promoting the growth of hair.

Vernonia Anthelmintica, Willd.

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*Syn. Serratula anthelmintica, Roxb.* *Sans.* सोमराजी, *Somaráji*. अवल्गुज, *Avalguja*. वाकुची, *Vákuchi*. *Vern.* *Hákuch, Somráj, Beng. Bákchi, Hind.*

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The seeds of *Vernonia anthelmintica* are of great repute in Sanskrit Materia Medica as a medicine for white leprosy (leucoderma), and other skin diseases. It is mentioned also as an anthelmintic, but is not much used as such, except in combination with a number of other medicines.

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In chronic skin diseases the seeds are taken alone or in combination with other medicines. In the severer forms of skin diseases, such as psoriasis and lepra, the medicine is recommended to be continued daily for one year, when a complete cure is said to be effected. The following combination is used in these cases. Take of *vákuchi* seeds, and black sesamum, equal parts; powder and mix. Dose, about a drachm to be taken in the morning, with

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श्रितञ्च चतुर्गुणे भृङ्गरसे विपक्वम् । षड्बिन्द्वोनासिकयाविधेयाः शीघ्रं निह- न्युः शिरसोविकारान् । च्युतांश्च केशांश्चलितांश्च दन्तान् दृढंमूलांश्च दृढो- करोति । सुवर्णदृष्टिमतिप्रसन्नं चक्षुर्वाहोबलञ्चाभ्यधिकं ददाति । चलदन्तः । tepid water. The medicine should be taken after perspiration has been induced by exercise or exposure to the sun. The diet should consist of milk and rice. In leucoderma a decoction of emblic myrobalan and catechu is given with the addition of powdered *vákuchi* seeds.¹

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¹ अवल्गुजादीजकर्षं पीत्वाकोष्णेन वारिणा। भोजनं सर्पिषाकार्य्यं सर्व्व कुष्ठप्रणाशनम्। तीव्रण कुष्ठेन परीतदेहो यः सोमराजीं नियमेन खादेत्। संवत्सरं कृष्णतिलद्वितीयां स सोमराजीं वपुषातिमेते। घर्मसेवीकृष्णेन वारिणा वागुजी पिबेत्। चक्रदत्तः।

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Externally it is used in skin diseases in a variety of forms such as paste, oil, etc. The following combination is said to be very useful in eruptions attended with itching. Take of *vákuchi* seeds, seeds of *Cassia Sophora* (*kásamarda*) and *Cassia Tora* (*chakramarda*), turmeric and common sea salt, equal parts; rub them together into a paste with whey and fermented paddy water (*kánjika*), and apply over the eruptions.² *Vákuchi* seeds four parts, and orpiment one part are rubbed into an emulsion with cow's urine, and applied to the patches of white leprosy or leucoderma.³

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² अवल्गुजां कासमर्दं चक्रमर्दंनिशायुतम्। माक्षिकेन तुल्यांशं मस्तु-काञ्जिकपेषितम्। कण्डू कण्डूं जयत्याशु सिद्धएषप्रयोगराट्। चक्रदत्तः।

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³ कुष्ठोऽवल्गुजबीजाद्धरिताल चतुर्थभागसंमिश्रः। मूत्रेण गवां पिष्टः सवर्णकरणः परः स्थिते। चक्रदत्तः।

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*Somaráji taila*. Take of *vákuchi* seeds, twelve seers and a half, water sixty four seers, and boil down to sixteen seers. Take of the seeds of *Cassia Tora* (*chakramarda*) twelve seers and a half, water sixty four seers and boil down to sixteen seers. Boil these two decoctions with sixteen seers of cow's urine, sixteen seers of mustard oil and the following substances in the form of a paste, namely root of *Plumbago rosea* (*raktachitráka*), of *Gloriosa superba* (*lánguli*), ginger, turmeric, *pátchak* root, seeds of *Pongamia glabra* (*karanja*), root *Clitoria ternatea* (*aparájitá*), of *Nerium odorum* (*karavira*) and of *Calotropis gigantea* (*arka*), bark of *Alstonia scholaris* (*saptaparni*), wood of *Acacia catechu* (*khadira*), of *symplocos* Racemasa (ladhra), black pepper, nim leaves, leaves of Cassia Sophora (kásamarda), juice of cow-dung, orpiment and realgar, each eight tolás. This oil is said to cure all sorts of skin diseases from vitiated blood, ringworm, prurigo, etc.¹

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ANACYCLUS PYRETHRUM, DC. Pellitory root was unknown to the ancient Hindus. In later compilations as Sárangadhara and the Bhávaprakása it is occasionally mentioned under the name of Akarákarava, and is used as an ingredient of compound prescriptions, as for example in the Akarádi churna described under opium.

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ENHYDRA HELONCHA, DC. Syn. Hingtsha repens, Roxb. Sans. हिलामोचिका, Hilamochiká. Vern. Hingchá, Beng. Harhuch, Hind. The leaves of this water plant are eaten by the natives as a vegetable. Being somewhat bitter they are regarded as wholesome and invigorating. Medicinally they are described as laxative and useful in diseases of the skin and nervous system. The fresh juice of the leaves, in doses of about a tolá is, prescribed by some Kavirajas in Calcutta, as an adjunct to tonic metallic medicines given in neuralgia and other nervous diseases.

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NAT. ORDER PLUMBAGINACEÆ.

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PLUMBAGO ZEYLANICA, Linn.

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Sans. चित्रक, Chitraka. Vern. Chitá, Beng. Hind.

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THE root of Plumbago Zeylanica is said to increase the digestive power, to promote the appetite and to be useful in dyspepsia, piles, anasarca, diarrhœa, skin diseases, etc. It is much used as a stimulant adjunct to other preparations, in the form of a com-

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1 बृहत्सोमराजी तैलम् । सोमराजी तुलाक्वाथे दद्रुघ्नश्च तथैव च ।
विपचेत्पलिकैर्भागैः कटुतैलाढकं भिषक् । चित्रकं लाङ्गली शोध्रं नागरं कुष्ठ-
मेव च । हरिद्रा नक्तमालञ्च हरितालं मनःशिला । व्याघ्रोता करवीरञ्च
सप्तपर्णाकं गोमयम् । खदिरं निम्बपत्रञ्च मरिचं कासमर्दकम् । गोमूत्रस्याढकं
दत्वा शनैर्मृद्वग्निनापचेत् । हन्ति सर्व्वानि कुष्ठानि कण्डुदुष्ट्रणानि च । किटिमं
दद्रुजातञ्च गात्र वैवर्ण्य नाशनं । राढीयसारसंग्रहः ।

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bination called trimada consisting of plumbago root, báberang seeds and the tubers of Cyperus rotundus (mustaka).

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It enters into the composition of numerous medicines for dyspepsia. The following is an illustration. Take of plumbago root, rock salt, chebulic myrobalan, and long pepper, equal parts ; powder and mix. Dose, about forty grains.¹ A favourite medicine for flatulence is an old prescription of Susruta called Shaddharana yoga. It is a powder composed of equal parts of the following substances, namely, plumbago root, indrayava seeds, root of Stephania hernandifolia (páthá), of Picrorrhiza Kurroa (kaṭuki), átis, and chebulic myrobalan. Dose, about a drachm.²

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¹ सिन्धूयपथ्यमघोड्भवविच्चूर्णसुणाम्बुनापिवात यः खलुनाट्वाङ्गः । तस्मिषेण सहतेन वरं नवान्न भक्सीमवल्यशितमात्ममिहञ्जनेन । चक्रदत्तः ।

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² चित्रकेन्द्रयवाः पाठा कटुकातिविषाभयाः । महाव्याधिप्रशमनोयोगः षड्धरणः स्मृतः ।। चक्रदत्तः ।

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The root of Plumbago Zeylanica is said to exercise a beneficial effect on piles, in which disease it is given in various combinations. One mode of administering it, is as follows. An earthen jar or pot is lined in its interior with a paste of the root, and curdled milk (dadhi) or kánjika is prepared in this pot, and taken by persons affected with hæmorrhoids, and prurigo.

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Plumbago root reduced to a paste is applied to abscesses with the object of opening them. It enters also into the composition of several preparations used as caustics. The following is an illustration. Take of plumbago root, root of Baliospermum montanum (danti), the milky juice of Euphorbia neriifolia (snuhi), and of Calotropis procera or Hamiltonii (arka), marking nut, sulphate of iron, treacle and rock salt, equal parts ; mix them together and make into a paste.³

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³ दन्ती चित्रकमूलत्वक् सुधार्क पयसीगुड़ः । भल्लातकसकाशीशं सैन्धवंदारणे स्मृतः । शार्ङ्गधरः ।

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PLUMBAGO ROSEA, Linn. Sans. रक्तचित्रक, Raktachitraka. Vern. Lálchitá, Beng. The properties of the root of Plumbago rosea are said to be like those of P. Zeylanica. It has besides a specific action on the uterus.* The root of *Plumbago rosea* taken internally will expel the fœtus from the womb, whether dead or alive.¹ This root is a more powerful vesicant than that of *P. Zelanica*, and enters into the composition of caustic pastes, and stimulant and rubefacient applications.

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¹ गरोमदनदहनमूलं चिरजमतिगर्भं मृतममृतं वा निपातयति ॥ चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER MYRSINACEÆ. EMBELIA RIBES, Burm. Sans. विड़ङ्ग, Vidanga. Vern. Báberang, Hind.

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SUSRUTA describes the seeds of *Embelia Ribes* as anthelmintic, alterative and tonic and recommends their use along with liquorice root for the purpose of strengthening the body and preventing the effects of age. Later writers regard *báberang* as carminative stomachic, anthelmintic and useful in intestinal worms, dyspepsia, and skin diseases.

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For expelling intestinal worms, the powder of the seeds is given in drachm doses with honey, or with an infusion of the seeds. A compound powder and a *ghrita* are also prepared by the addition of various other drugs.²

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² विड़ङ्गं शृतपाणीयं विड़ङ्गेनावघटितम् । पीतं कमिहरं दृष्टं कमिजांश्च गदाञ्जयेत् । लिह्याद्विड़ङ्गचूर्णं वा मधुना कमिनाशनम् ॥

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* It is generally known that the scraped root of *Plumbago rosea* is introduced into the mouth of the womb, for the purpose of procuring abortion. The root is sometimes put to another use, a knowledge of which is likely to be of importance in a medico-legal point of view. Many years ago I had under my treatment a married female, who had accidental abortion and copious hæmorrhage after it. On the third day after the accident, she was brought to hospital, suffering from severe pain in the pelvic region, purulent discharge and high fever. On examination I found a piece of the *lálchitrá* root, with a little rag wrapped round it, projecting into the vagina from the cervix uteri. I was told that a midwife had introduced it into the womb with the object of checking hæmorrhage after the abortion. If this woman had been a widow and had died from the effects of the abortion, and if on examination of the dead body, the root of the *lálchitrá* had been found in the position mentioned above, the inevitable conclusion would have been, that it was introduced for the purpose of procuring abortion.

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Báberang enters into the composition of several applications for ringworm and other skin diseases. The following is an example. Take of báberang, rock salt, chebulic myrobalan, bakuchi, mustard, turmeric and the seeds of Pongamia glabra (karanja), equal parts and make them into a thin paste with cow’s urine.¹

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¹ विडङ्ग सैन्धव शिवा मशिरेखा सर्षप करञ्जरजनीभिः।गोमूत्रपिष्टो लेपः कुष्ठहरदिवसनाथसमः। चक्रदत्तः।

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NAT. ORDER SAPOTACEÆ.

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BASSIA LATIFOLIA, Roxb.

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Sans. मधूक Madhuka. Vern. Mauá, Beng. Hind.

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THE flowers of Bassia latifolia yield a distilled spirit which is described by Susruta as heating, astringent, tonic and appetizing. The flowers are regarded as cooling, tonic and nutritive. They enter into the composion of several mixtures of a cooling and demulcent character. The following is an example. Take of the flowers of Bassia latifolia, bark of Gmelina arborea (gambhári), red sandal wood, root of Andropogon muricatum (ushira), coriander and raisins, equal parts, and prepare an infusion in the usual way. This infusion is given with the addition of sugar for the relief of thirst, burning of the body and giddiness.²

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² मधूकपुष्पगम्भारी चन्दनोशीरधान्यकैः। द्राक्षायाश्च कृतः फाण्टः शीतः-शर्करयायुतः।। तृष्णापित्तहरः प्रोक्तोदाहमुर्च्छाभ्रमानुजयेत्। शार्ङ्गधरः।

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The seeds of Bassia latifolia yield by expression a thick concrete oil which is used in lamps, and by the poorer classes, for culinary purposes. This oil called madhuka sára in Sanskrit, is recommended to be applied to the head in cephalalgia.³

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³ मधूकसारैस्तैलैः सिद्धञ्चास्य विरेचयेत्।। चक्रदत्तः।

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MIMUSOPS ELENGI, Linn.

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Sans. वकुल, Vakula. Vern. Maulsarau, Hind.

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THIS ornamental tree is generally reared in gardens for the sake of its fragrant flowers from which a distilled water is prepared. The ripe fruits are sweetish and edible. The unripe fruits are astringent and are recommended to be chewed for the purpose of fixing loose teeth.¹ The bark is described as astringent. A decoction of the bark is used as a gargle in diseases of the gums and teeth.²

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¹ चलदन्त स्थिरकरं कार्यं वकुलचर्वणम् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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² दन्तचालेतु गण्डूषोवकुलत्वक् शतोहितः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER STYRACEÆ.

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SYMPLOCOS RACEMOSA, Roxb.

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Sans. लोध्र, *Lodhra*, तिलक, *Tillaka*. Vern. *Lodh*, Beng. Hind.

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THE bark of this tree, used in dyeing red, is considered cooling, astringent and useful in bowel complaints, eye diseases, ulcers, etc. It enters into the composition of numerous prescriptions for bowel complaints, along with bela, and kurchi bark. A decoction of the wood is used as a gargle for giving firmness to spongy and bleeding gums.³ In bleeding from the gums, a paste composed of lodhra bark, rasot, tubers of Cyperus rotundus (mustaka) and honey, is applied to the gums.⁴ The Amritaságara recommends the following application for ophthalmia. Take of lodhra bark, liquorice root, burnt alum and rasot, equal parts, and rub into a paste with water. This is applied round the eyes.

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³ भिषजोदककषायेण तथैवामलकस्य वा । प्रक्षालयेत् मुखं नेत्रे स्वस्थशी- तोदकेन वा । निलीकां मुखशोषञ्च पीडकां व्यङ्गमेवच । रक्तापित्तकतान् रोगान् सद्यएव विनाशयेत् ।। सुश्रुतः ।

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⁴ शैशिरे हृतमक्तेच लोध्रसत्तरसाञ्जनैः । सक्षौद्रैः घृष्यते लेपोगण्डूषे क्षीरिशोहिताः ।। चक्रदत्तः ।

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NAT. ORDER JASMINACEÆ.

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NYCTANTHES ARBOR TRISTIS, Linn.

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Sans. शेफालिका, *Sepháliká*. रजनीहासा, *Rajanihásá*.

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Vern. *Siuli*, Beng. *Harsingár*, Hind.

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THIS plant is cultivated in gardens for the sake of its flowers. These open at sunset, and before morning strew the ground thickly with their fallen corollas. Native women and children collect them and, separating the orange coloured tubes from the white petals, dry them in the sun and preserve them for dyeing their clothes a beautiful buff or orange colour.

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The leaves are used in medicine. They are regarded as useful in fever and rheumatism. The fresh juice of the leaves is given with honey in chronic fever.¹ Some preparation of iron is also generally given along with it. A decoction of the leaves prepared over a gentle fire is recommended by several writers as a specific for obstinate sciatica.²

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¹ मधुना सर्व्वज्वरनुच्छेफालोदलजोरसः । चक्रदत्तः ।

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² शिफालिकादलैः कायो मन्दग्निरिपरिसाधितः । दुब्बारं गृध्रसीरोगं पीतमात्रं समुद्धरेत् । चक्रदत्तः ।

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JASMINUM GRANDIFLORUM, Linn. Sans. जाती, Játi. Vern. Chámeli, Hind.

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The fragrant flowers of *Jasminum grandiflorum* are used for preparing a scented oil, which is considered cooling, and is much used by the richer natives for anointing their bodies before bathing. The leaves of this plant are used medicinally in skin diseases, ulcers in the mouth, otorrhœa, etc. and enter into the composition of numerous prescriptions for these diseases.

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The fresh juice of the leaves is applied to soft corns between the toes.³ In ulcerations or eruptions in the mucous membrane of the mouth, the leaves are recommended to be chewed.⁴ An oil prepared with the juice of the leaves is poured into the ear in otorrhœa.⁵

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³ जातोपत्रञ्च संमर्थ्य दद्यादलसके भिषक् ।। चक्रदत्तः ।

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⁴ सुखपाके विरावेधः शिरः कायविरेचनम् । कार्य्यञ्च बहुधानित्यं जातोपत्रस्य चर्व्वणम् ।। भावप्रकाशः ।

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⁵ जातिपत्ररसे तैलं विपक्व्वं पूतिकर्णजित् ।। चक्रदत्तः ।

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JASMINUM SAMBAC, Willd. Sans. वार्षिकी, Várshiki. Vern. Bel, Beng. Hind. The properties of this plant are said to resemble those of *Jasminum grandiflorum*.

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NAT. ORDER APOCYNEÆ.

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NERIUM ODORUM, Solander.

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Sans. करवीर, *Karavira*. अश्वमारक, *Asvamáraka*.

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Vern. *Karabi*, Beng. *Kaner*, Hind.

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Two varieties of Karavira are described in the Bhávaprakása, namely, white and red flowered. The properties of both are identical, their roots being regarded as poisonous when taken internally and useful in skin diseases and inflammatory affections. The *Nerium odorum* has several synonyms in Sanskrit signifying horse-killer. It would seem from this, that the poisonous roots were used for destroying horses.

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*Karavirádya taila*.¹ Take of sesamum oil four seers, decoction of the root of *Nerium odorum*, eight seers, cow's urine, eight seers, *Plumbago rosea* root and *báberang* seeds, each half a seer, in the form of a paste; boil them together and prepare an oil in the usual way. This oil is used in eczema, impetigo and other skin diseases.

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