The bark of A. glandulosa, a well-known and abundant shade-tree. (Unofficial.)

Preparations

Fluid extract. Dose, τη x to 3 j. Bark, gr. x—

3j.

Composition

The most important constituent is the oleo-resin.

It contains, also, a volatile oil, which is extremely diffusible and powerful, and a bitter principle.

Actions and Uses

The taste is bitter and somewhat acrid. It is strongly nauseant, and the nausea is accompanied with weakness, vertigo, and cold sweating. It possesses decided purgative property, the stools being large and watery. It has considerable power as a vermifuge, and is effective when employed against taenia. The action of the heart is at first increased, but is subsequently slowed, the pulse becoming small and weak. Respiration is similarly affected, and death ensues in animals by paralysis of the muscles of respiration.

On the brain and nervous system ailanthus acts as a paralyzer, the loss of power beginning in the hind extremities. The paralyzing action seems to depend on the volatile oil, while the purgative and anthelmintic effects are possessed by the oleo-resin.

Therapy

The most important application of ailanthus is in the treatment of tape-worm. For this purpose the oleo-resin, or, better, a decoction of the fresh bark ( 3 j— oz iv), may be used. The oleo-resin has the advantage in being a permanent preparation, whereas the bark loses its strength in the process of drying.