36 ocean. NAT. ORDER.-CONVOLVULACEAE. great abundance, at a height of more than six thousand feet above the It without doubt could be successfully cultivated, and be made a source of profit in the southern sections of the United States, were it fostered in those warm climates so congenial to the soil. It acquires great vigor and luxuriance, extending its stalks from fifteen to eighteen feet in length; the roots, also, both in appearance and medicinal powers, essentially differ from those cultivated in colder climes. Medical Properties and Uses. Jalap was first introduced into medical practice in Europe in the latter part of the sixteenth century, and from there into the United States, where it now ranks among the purgative medicines most extensively employed. The United States Dispensatory highly recommends it as being applicable in most cases where an active cathartic is required, and from its hydragogue powers is especially adapted to the treatment of dropsy. It is generally given with other medicines, which assist or qualify its operation. In dropsical complaints it is used in connection with the bitartrate of potassa; also in the treatment of the hip disease and other scrofulous affections of the joints. With calomel it forms a cathartic compound, which has long been very popular with some physicians in the treatment of bilious fever, and other complaints attended with conjestion of the liver or portal circle. In over doses it sometimes produces dangerous symptoms, hypercatharsis, and will often purge when applied to a wound. The dose of Jalap in powder is from fifteen to thirty grains; of the resin or alcoholic extract, which is chiefly used in Europe, and is now directed by the Edinburgh College, from four to eight grains; the latter is usually given rubbed up with sugar, or in emulsion, by which its tendency to irritate painfully the mucous membrane of the bowels is thought to be in some measure obviated. Various species of the Jalap have at different periods been introduced into medical practice, all possessing more or less cathartic qualities. ་ |