(Daphne Mezereum. _Radicis Cortex._)
_Mezereon._
The inner bark of this plant, when fresh, is corrosive and even
vesicatory; the fruit is equally so, but neither have any smell; its
virulence is counteracted by camphor. It contains, besides extractive
matter, an acrid resinous substance, which, according to Plaff, bears a
strong resemblance to the active principle of Cantharides. It is now
seldom used except as an antivenereal remedy, or in cases of chronic
cutaneous disease. FORMS OF EXHIBITION. In a decoction, made by boiling
℥ss of the bark, with an equal quantity of Liquorice root, in oiij of
water down to oij; of which f℥ss may be given twice a day. From its
pungency it is one of the substances used by fraudulent brewers to
communicate a strong flavour to their beer. Where a discharge from
issues cannot be kept up by the common means, it is said that the
introduction of a little of this bark, instead of the pea, will in a few
hours produce the desired effect. OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. _Decoct.
Sarsaparill. comp_. L. _Decoct. Daphnes. Mezerei_. E. The _Daphne
Laureola_ is very generally sold for Mezereon.