This is an evergreen that grows in many parts of the world, and seems to exercise great economy, from the fact that it grows on gravelly ground where nothing else will grow. The leaves are the part used in making medicine.

Medical properties and uses. -- This remedy, plant, or shrub, has a marked tonic influence on the general system, and is what we might term an astringent diuretic. I have used it with the best of results in many troubles, where there was too much urine or water thrown off by the kidneys, called in medicine diabetis insepitus. I have found it good for chronic irritation of the bladder. I prefer a tea made from the leaves and drank hot. Dose, of the hot tea, one ounce every two or three hours till relief is experienced.