Scammonium

Scammony

Scammony. A resinous exudation from the living root of Convolvulus scammonia Linné (Nat. Ord. Convolvulaceae). (U. S. P.) Scammonée, Fr.; Scammonium, Ger.

Resina Scammonii

Resin of scammony. Dose, grs. v—grs. x.

Composition

The activity of scammony, as a cathartic, depends entirely on the resin which it contains. As the crude scammony is much adulterated, the resin is alone worthy of confidence.

Actions and Uses

Scammony corresponds very closely to jalap in the time it requires to cause cathartic action, in the character of the stools produced, and in the kind of irritation which it excites. Scammony is somewhat more drastic than jalap. As it has but little taste, and is at the same time very active, the resin is much prescribed by English practitioners as a cathartic for children. It may be given rubbed up with milk, or with sirup of rhubarb. It is adapted to the same class of cases, and to the relief of the same conditions, as jalap.