Hepatica Americana. (Liverleaf).

Preparation.—Prepare a tincture from the fresh leaves, using proof spirit. Dose gtts. v. to ʒss.

The Hepatica exerts a slightly stimulant and tonic influence upon the stomach and small intestines, relieving irritation and promoting functional activity. Thus it may be employed in atonic conditions of these and associate viscera with advantage. Culpepper wrote, "It is a singular good herb for all diseases of the liver, both to cool and cleanse it, and is serviceable in yellow jaundice. It is a singular remedy to stay the spreading of tetters, ringworms, and other fretting and running sores."

It exerts an influence upon all mucous surfaces. Probably its best action is upon the bronchial mucous membrane, when enfeebled from irritation or inflammation, attended with profuse secretion. In these cases it may sometimes be given with great benefit.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.