The Root

(Symplocarpus Foetidus Dracontium)

This plant is found plentifully in the Northern and Middle States. It grows in wetlands, having many fibrous roots, sending up many large, bright green leaves, but without any stem or stalk. Its smell resembles the peculiar odor of the skunk, from which it derives its name.

Properties And Uses

It is expectorant, anti-spasmodic, and nervine; useful in asthma, consumption, cough, hysterics, and all spasmodic affections. One third of a teaspoonful of the pulverized root is enough for a dose, combined with Cayenne and slippery elm. An over-dose produces vomiting, head-ache, vertigo, and temporary blindness.