FRINGE-TREE. Chionanthus virginica. N.O. Oleaceae.
Synonym : Old Man's Beard, Snowdrop Tree.
Habitat : U.S.A.
Features : A small tree with snow-white flowers which hang down like fringe—hence the common name and synonyms. Root about one-eighth inch thick, dull brown with irregular concave scars on outer surface, inside smooth, yellowish-brown. Fracture short, inner layer shows projecting bundles of stone cells. Very bitter taste.
Part used : Root bark.
Action : Alterative, hepatic, diuretic, tonic.
In stomach and liver disorders, and poor digestive functioning generally. Also finds a place in gall-stone prescriptions and those for certain female disorders, in which latter Pulsatilla is another frequent constituent. The 1 ounce to 1 pint infusion is taken internally in 1-4 tablespoonful doses, and is applied as lotion and injection.
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