By these titles is recognized the root of Aralia nudicaulis, an indigenous perennial herb, having one compound leaf and one flower-stem, and growing in shady places, throughout the United States, at least east of the Alleghanies. The root is creeping, about as thick as the little finger, somewhat twisted, and a foot or more, sometimes several feet in length. it is of a yellowish-brown colour, a fragrant odour, and a warm, spicy, sweetish taste. it has not been analyzed; but its virtues are probably, in part at least, dependent on a volatile principle.

With gently stimulant and diaphoretic properties, it is supposed to unite those of an alterative, and has been considerably used as a substitute for sarsaparilla, which it is thought to resemble in its remedial virtues. it may be given in infusion, in the same manner and dose as sarsaparilla. in strong decoction, it has been used as a stimulant to old and indolent ulcers.