American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy

Agaricus acts upon the nerves of the skin, controlling involuntary
twitching of the face and eyes. It is effective in night sweats and
prostration. While agaracin, or agaric acid, is most commonly used in
consumption, and the observations have been made from its influence, it
is doubtful if it is superior to the specific boletus if the latter remedy is
given in proper doses, and persisted in.
BRAYERA. Brayera anthelmintica.
Synonym—Kousso.
CONSTITUENTS—
Brayerin (a bitter, acrid resin), volatile oil, tannin.
PREPARATIONS—
Extractum Kousso Fluidum, Fluid Extracts of Kousso. Dose, from
one to six drams.
Therapy—Kousso is given for the removal of the tapeworm. An infusion of
half an ounce in a pint of water should be made and drunk on rising in
the morning. The patient should take but little food during the day, and if
the bowels do not move freely, a physic should be taken at night. An
extractive is obtained from the plant, known as Koosin, which is given in
doses of twenty grains. The fluid extract in two dram doses is also given.
The, agent is said to possess abortive properties. All intestinal irritants
should be given with care in pregnancy.
BRYONIA. Bryonia alba.
Synonym—Bryony.
CONSTITUENTS—
Bryonin, Starch, Gum, Sugar, Albumen, Wax, Fat and various Salts.
PREPARATIONS—
Tinctura Bryoniae, Tincture of Bryonia. Dose, from one to five
minims.
Specific Medicine Bryonia. Dose, from one-tenth to two minims.
Physiological Action—In large doses bryonia is an active hydragogue
cathartic and sometimes causes inflammation of the stomach and bowels.
Ellingwood’s American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy - Page 82