Gentian possesses in a high degree the tonic properties which characterize the simple bitters. It excites the appetite, invigorates the powers of digestion. It may be used in all cases of disease depending upon pure debility of the digestive organs, or requiring a general tonic impression; as dyspepsia, gout, difficult menstruations, hysteria, scrofula, intermittent fever, diarrhœa, and worms. It is given in the form of infusion or tincture. The dose in infusion is a wine glassful 3 or 4 times a day. Infuse ½ ounce of the powdered root in a pint of water. A tea spoonful of the tincture may be given as often in a little water. RATTLEWEED ROOT. This unites with a tonic power the property of stimulating the secretions, particularly those of the skin, kidneys and mucus membrane of the lungs. Its medical properties are found in its salutary effects upon the nervous system, in neuralgia of the heart, in sciatica, and in other forms of rheumatism. It is equal if not superior to the colchicum in rheumatism, and far superior to it in neuralgia of any description. I have used it extensively in those cases, and with the happiest effects. I cured myself of a severe sciatica in twenty-four hours with it, but the dose was too large, producing violent sickness, great prostration, nausea, vomiting and profuse perspiration. I took 3 or 4 drachms of the saturated tincture at one dose; but it effects the cure completely when properly prepared. It acts upon the stomach and bowels powerfully, and its full effects are not obtained until it purges freely. The following is the best formula for its preparation. ½ pound powdered root, 1 pint alcohol. Mix and macerate for 20 days and filter. One tea spoonful should be taken 3 times a day, in sweetened water, which may be increased or diminished so as to produce 3 or 4 operations on the bowels in 24 hours. I have seen some persons that it would not purge. It sometimes produces vertigo before it begins to operate, but these symptoms will all subside after the purging commences, yet it will cure if it does not purge. Several cases of Vitus’ Dance are recorded by Dr. Jesse Young, in which it performed cures after other remedies had failed.--It is usually administered in decoction by those living in the country. One ounce of the powdered root is boiled in a pint of water for a few minutes, and a small wine glassful given from 3 to 5 times a day according to its effects. PIPSISSEWAY OR WINTER GREEN. This is an evergreen found in pine woods and in light shady soils in all parts of the United States, which blossoms in mid summer. The whole plant has rather a pungent and bitter taste. _Medical Properties and Use._