Nor yet has the tree called “rhus”[228] any Latin name, although it is employed in numerous ways. Under this name are comprehended a wild plant,[229] with leaves like those of myrtle, and a short stem, which is good as an expellent of tapeworm; and the shrub[230] which is known as the “currier’s plant,” of a reddish colour, a cubit in height, and about the thickness of one’s finger, the leaves of which are dried and used, like pomegranate rind, for curing leather. Medical men also employ the leaves of these plants for the treatment of contusions, and for the cure of cœliac affections, and of ulcers of the rectum and phagedænic sores; for all which, purposes they are pounded with honey and applied with vinegar. A decoction of them is injected for suppurations of the ears. With the branches, boiled, a stomatice[231] is also made, which is used for the same purposes as that prepared from mulberries;[232] it is more efficacious, however, mixed with alum. This preparation is applied also to reduce the swelling in dropsy. CHAP. 55.—RHUS ERYTHROS: NINE REMEDIES. Rhus[233] erythros is the name given to the seed of this shrub. It possesses properties of an astringent and cooling nature, and is used as a seasoning[234] for provisions, in place of salt. It has a laxative effect, and, used in conjunction with silphium, it gives a finer flavour to meat of all kinds. Mixed with honey, it is curative of running ulcers, pimples on the tongue,[235] contusions, bruises, and excoriations. It causes ulcers of the head to cicatrize with the greatest rapidity; and taken with the food, it arrests excessive menstruation. CHAP. 56.—THE ERYTHRODANUS: ELEVEN REMEDIES. The erythrodanus,[236] by some called “ereuthodanus,” and in Latin “rubia,” is quite a different plant. It is used for dyeing wool, and skins for leather are prepared with it. Used medicinally, it is a diuretic, and, employed with hydromel, it is curative of jaundice.[237] Employed topically with vinegar, it heals lichens; and a potion is prepared from it for sciatica and paralysis, the patient while using it taking a bath daily. The root of it and the seed are effectual as an emmenagogue; they act astringently upon the bowels, and disperse gatherings. The branches, together with the leaves, are applied to wounds inflicted by serpents; the leaves too have the property of staining the hair.[238] I find it stated by some writers that this shrub is curative of jaundice, even if worn as an amulet only, and looked at every now and then. CHAP. 57.—THE ALYSSON: TWO REMEDIES.