(Hyoscyamus Niger.) _Henbane._
QUALITIES. This plant, when recent, has a strong fetid, and narcotic
odour; properties which are nearly lost by exsiccation. CHEMICAL
COMPOSITION. Resin, mucilage, extractive matter, gallic acid, and some
salts; an alkaline element (_Hyoscyama_) is said to constitute its
active principle. This principle differs from other vegetable alkalies,
in being able to resist a low red heat, without undergoing
decomposition. SOLUBILITY. Water freely extracts the narcotic powers of
this plant, and decoction destroys them; diluted alcohol is the best
menstruum. INCOMPATIBLES. Precipitates are produced by _acetate of
lead_, _nitrate of silver_, and _sulphate of iron_; vegetable acids
weaken its narcotic powers. The extract or inspissated juice is the best
form in which it can be exhibited; see also the _Tincture_; its leaves
form an anodyne cataplasm, and the smoke from its seeds, when applied by
a funnel to a carious tooth, is recommended in severe fits of
odontalgia. The root of this plant is poisonous.[535] In Dr. Molyneux’s
appendix to Threlkeld’s “SYNOPSIS STIRPIUM HIBERNICARUM” are related
several cases of its effects on persons who had eaten them instead of
_Skirrets_. OFFICINAL PREP. _Extract: Hyoscyam: Tinct: Hyoscyam:_ L.E.D.