Apocynum Cannabinum.
Syn.—Apocynum, Canadian hemp, bitter root, Indian hemp.
P. E.—Fresh root.
N. O.—Apocynaceae.
N. H.—United States and Canada.
Properties: Diuretic, cathartic, emetic.
Indications: The remedy thought of in dropsy. Edema of the cellular tissue, puffiness of face, beginning in the cellular tissues tinder eyes, followed by an edematous condition of hands, feet and a general dropsical condition, with scanty urine, diarrhea with sharp and griping pains in bowels, flatulent discharge, some cases of jaundice. We think of it in dropsy, depending upon feeble heart, rheumatism, rheumatic neuralgia, diseases of joints and mucous membrane, sciatica. A good remedy for anemic females with relaxed and flabby tissue with a tendency to metrorrhagia or menorrhagia, especially where the uterus is relaxed and the flow more of a watery color. Useful in general sluggish circulation. It is a pronounced heart tonic and improves the circulation. Increases blood pressure and capillary action. We think of it in conditions where exudation takes place from the blood vessels, the result of atonic conditions of the vessels. Combined with cactus it makes a very good heart tonic. Apocynum should be given in small doses so as not to get the cathartic effect.
The Materia Medica and Clinical Therapeutics, 1905, was written by Fred J. Petersen, M.D.
