29 Aderuck.--"Ginger, Amomum zinziber, Linn. Amomum zinziber,
Wild. Adraca, S. Sonth (dried root,) H. Sunthi, S." A very common root,
the stem of which is knotty, and from every knot, a leaf is produced;
it is hot and heavy; promotes digestion if eaten before meals, mixed
with Lahore salt, (rock salt;) it prevents flatulent swellings in
the stomach and bowels. P. Zinzibeel tur. It is much extolled as a
stomachic when prepared as sweetmeats; but if the syrup be allowed to
dry, it spoils, becomes less grateful to the taste, and its heating
quality is much increased.
30 Arnee.--The name of a tree, in height that of the Peach tree, but
it is full of branches from the root upwards, and the leaves are like
those of the Sumhaloo; it is heating, and beneficial in rheumatic
complaints and swellings from cold. In the Dhintri it is described
as oleaginous and heavy; effectual in Jaundice, increasing appetite,
loosening the bowels, and removing flatulence.
31 Arhir or Toor.--"Cytisus cajan." Some consider these as distinct
species, but in my opinion Toor is only Arhir in an overgrown
state. The plant grows to the height of a yard and half; and the
taste of the pea of the Arhir is preferable to that of the Toor. Toor
is sown and cut down at the same time as the sugar-cane; whereas the
Arhir is sown, and cut with the barley. The pod of the Toor is larger
than that of the Arhir; and the former has an unpleasant smell, which
is wanting in the latter; they are both used very commonly as food,
all over India. It is in its properties cool and dry, and produces
costiveness; it is useful in bilious and catarrhal disorders,
and in foulness of the blood. It is even said to be an antidote
to poisons. In its taste it is sweet, like that of the Cassela. I
conceive it hot in the 2d, and dry in the 3d degree, and recommend it
for strengthening the stomach. When used as food it is heavy; but is
beneficial in complaints having their origin in cold. If twice scalded
in hot water, before it is boiled, it will cause less thirst; and if
boiled in milk, or whey, it becomes less heating. A decoction of the
leaves is recommended as a wash for the mouth, in cases of toothache,
and diseases of the teeth. P. Shakool.