Xanthoxylum Americanum.

Properties: Stimulant, tonic, carminative.

Physiological action: Xanthoxylum stimulates the nerve centers and thus increases the functional activity of the different organs of the body. Has a tonic effect on the heart and will antagonize congestion and blood stasis. Its action on the capillaries is similar to that of belladonna but is much safer to use as there are no toxic effects from its use. When taken it causes a warmth and tingling, through the whole body.

Use: Stimulates the nerve centers and in this way increases the tone and functional activity of different organs of the body. It stimulates the heart, and capillary circulation and thus assists in overcoming congestion and blood stasis. We think of it where the circulation is sluggish, mucous membrane relaxed and there is general lack of nerve tone. In rheumatism as a gastro tonic, in atonic diarrhea and dysentery, colic, cholera morbus, Asiatic cholera, chronic atonic dyspepsia. Combined with hydrastis, it makes a valuable restorative in conditions of weakness, malnutrition, after debilitating fevers, diarrhea, dysentery, etc. It has a superior tonic influence upon the stomach and digestion and improves nutrition. A valuable remedy in chronic atonic dyspepsia.

The Materia Medica and Clinical Therapeutics, 1905, was written by Fred J. Petersen, M.D.