Synonym. - Oil of Fleabane. A volatile oil distilled from the fresh, flowering herb of Erigeron canadense Linne (nat. ord. Compositae.)

Habitat

North America, in fields and waste places; naturalized in other countries.

Characters

A pale yellow, limpid liquid, becoming darker and thicker by age and exposure to the air, having a peculiar aromatic, persistent odor, and an aromatic, slightly pungent taste. Sp. gr., about 0.850, increasing with age.

Solubility

In an equal volume of Alcohol.

Dose, 5 to 15 m.; .30 to 1.00 c.c.

Action And Uses Of The Oil Of Erigeron

Oil of erigeron is less irritant and also less efficient than oil of turpentine. Externally it is often applied to prevent insects from injuring the skin. It has been used in diarrhoea, dysentery and haemorrhages, in much the same way as oil of turpentine.