Spigelia

Pink-root

Pink-root. The rhizoma and roots of Spigelia mari-landica Linné (Nat. Ord. Loganiaceae).

Extractum Spigeliae Fluidum

Fluid extract of spigelia. Dose, 3 j— oz ss.

Composition

A bitter, uncrystallizable principle (spigelin ?), volatile oil, tannic and gallic acid.

Actions and Uses

In moderate doses spigelia produces a sensation of warmth at the epigastrium, stimulates the intestinal movements, accelerates the action of the heart, and promotes the cutaneous transpiration. In large doses it causes cerebral effects, vertigo, dimness of vision, dilated pupils, convulsions, and insensibility. Many of the serious symptoms supposed to have been produced by it in certain cases were probably really due to pre-existing cerebral lesions. Cases of basilar meningitis, for example, have not infrequently been confounded with "worm-fever." Any vermifuge, given under these circumstances, might seem to have caused the head-symptoms which are characteristic of the brain-lesions.

Spigelia is used only as a vermifuge, and against the round worm, for the expulsion of which it has proved to be very efficient. A low diet and a brisk cathartic should precede the use of this remedy. The best form for administration is the fluid extract of senna and spigelia.

Authorities referred to:

Porcher, Dr. F. P. Resources of the Southern Fields and Forests. StillÉ, Dr. Alfred. Therapeutics and Materia Medica.