One side of the root is sometimes separated from the cork and raised above the cortex and transversely fissured, showing numerous laticiferous cells in the cortex. No satisfactory investigation has yet been made of the chemical properties. It also contains some starch, saponin, and in the suberous layer tannic acid. Two OZ. of the root are infused in 1 pint of boiling water and left standing for 1 hour then strained off and drunk in 24 hours. It has been successfully used in the cure of venereal disease, proving efficacious where American Sarsaparilla has failed.
Native doctors utilize it in nephritic complaints and for sore mouths of children.
Also valuable in gonorrhoeal neuralgia and other depraved conditions of the system as well as for other diseases treated by other varieties. Mezereon root-bark and 6 Cloves. Put all these into 2 gallons of boiling water and shake vessel well. When fermentation starts, take 4 fluid ounces three times daily.