53. Symplocarpus.—Skunk Cabbage.
Botanical name:
53. SYMPLOCARPUS.—SKUNK CABBAGE. The rhizome and roots of an indigenous herb, Symplocar'pus foe'tidus Salisbury, so called from the disagreeable odor (depending upon a volatile oil) which is emitted by all parts of the fresh plant, and by the dried rhizome when triturated. It has an acrid taste, but the acrid principle has not yet been isolated. Stimulant, antispasmodic, and narcotic, causing nausea and vomiting, together with vertigo, headache, and dimness of vision. It has been used in asthma, whooping-cough, nervous and convulsive affections, and hysteria; also in chronic catarrh, chronic rheumatism, and bronchial and pulmonary affections. Dose: 10 to 20 gr. (0.6 to 1.3 Gm.).
