(Sumach.)

Origin. - The dried fruit of Rhus glabra L., a shrub or suffruticose plant about 12 feet (3.6 M.) high, growing in rocky or barren soil in North America.

Description and Properties. - Subglobular, about 1/8 inch (3 Mm.) in diameter, drupaceous, crimson, densely hairy, containing a roundish-oblong, smooth putamen; inodorous; taste acidulous.

Dose. - The preparations only are used internally.

Official Preparation

Fluidextractum Rhois Glabrae - Fluidextracti Rhois Glabrae - Fluidextract of Rhus Glabra. - Dose, 1/4-1 fluidram (1.0-4.0 Cc.) [15 minims (1 Cc), U. S. P.].

Physiological Action. - The action of rhus glabra resembles that of tannic acid.

Therapeutics. - Externally and Locally. - An infusion or the fluidextract is used as a topical application for ulcers and inflamed wounds. The infusion is an excellent mouth-wash in spongy gums,ptyalism, pharyngitis, aphthous stomatitis, and tonsillitis. It can be used alone, but is much more efficient when combined with potassium chlorate and glycerin, adding a little menthol, 2-3 grains (0.12-0.20 Gm.), to make the mixture more agreeable. It is also of service as an injection in leucorrhea.

Administration. - The fluidextract is used exclusively.