Spigelia. - Synonyms. - Pinkroot. Carolina Pink. The rhizome and roots of Spigelia marilandica Linne (nat. ord. Loganiaceae).

Habitat

Southern United States; westward to Texas and Wisconsin, in rich woods.

Characters

Of horizontal growth, about 5 cm. or more long, 2 or 3 mm. thick, dark purplish brown, bent, somewhat branched, on the upper side with cup-shaped scars; on the lower side with numerous, thin, brittle, lighter- • colored roots, about 10 cm.long; the rhizome internally with a whitish wood and a pith which is usually dark-colored or decayed; odor somewhat aromatic; taste sweetish, bitter and pungent. Resembling Spigelia root. - Phlox Carolina, but the rootlets are brownish-yellow, rather coarse, straight, and contain a straw-colored wood underneath a readily removable bark.

Composition

1) Spigeline, a volatile alkaloid. (2) A little volatile oil. (3) Bitter principle. (4) Resin.

Dose, 1/4 to 2 dr.; 1. to 8. gm.

Preparation

Extractum Spigeliae Fluidum. Fluid Extract Of Spigelia

By naceration and percolation with Diluted Alcohol, and evaporation. Dose, 1/4 to 2 fl. dr.; 1. to 8. c.c.

Action And Uses Of Spigelia

Spigelia is one of the most powerful anthelmintics. It may-give rise to symptoms of narcotic poisoning, which, however, may be obviated by its combination with a cathartic like senna.