SOLOMON's SEAL. Polygonatum officinalis. N.O. Liliaceae Habitat : Rocky woods in high situations.
Features : Stem from twelve to eighteen inches high, with alternate sessile leaves. White flowers in May and June, usually solitary, stalks axillary ; black berries. Rhizome cylindrical, about half an inch diameter, transverse ridges, slightly flattened above, circular stem scars at intervals. Fracture short, yellowish, waxy. Taste mucilaginous, sweet then acrid.
Part used : Rhizome.
Action : Astringent, demulcent.
Lung complaints, when combined with other remedies. Also in leucorrhcea. Powdered root used as poultice for inflammations.
Infusion of 1 ounce to 1 pint boiling water—wineglass doses.
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