_May Apple._ _Radix._
[This plant is found in almost every part of the United States in low
and moist situations. It flowers in May and June, and the root is the
only part used in medicine. By analysis this is found to contain resin,
bitter extractive, fœcula, and a slight proportion of a gummy substance.
The root of the May Apple is an excellent active cathartic, operating in
a manner very similar to the common Julap. It is given in powder, in
doses of about grs. xx. The proper period for collecting the root for
medicinal purposes is the autumn, when the leaves of the plant have
turned yellow. It should be carefully dried and then pulverized.]