This consists of the seeds and capsules of one or more Mexican plants, belonging or closely allied to the genus Veratrum; and it is not impossible that it may be obtained both from Veratrum Sabadilla and Asagraea officinalis, though it is of late generally referred to the latter. For a description of this product the reader may consult the U. S. Dispensatory (12th ed., p. 721). its sole value at present depends on the fact, that it contains Veratria in considerable proportion, and yields this alkaloid more readily than any other known substance.

Cevadilla has essentially the same effects on the system as the white hellebore, and, in like manner, is capable of operating as a poison. Though introduced into Europe so early as 1572, it has never been much used; the chief employment of it being internally as a remedy in taenia and other worms in the bowels, and externally as an ointment for the destruction of vermin. The dose is stated at from five to thirty grains; but, if given at all, the commencing dose should be smaller than the least quantity mentioned, and increased if requisite.