Prunus Serotina.
Syn.—Prunus; Prunus Virginica.
P. E.—Bark collected in autumn.
N. O.—Rosaceae.
N. H.—United States.
Properties: Tonic, sedative, astringent.
Use: Prunus is largely used in form of a syrup as a menstruum for other remedies. Useful in all atonic conditions where a sedative influence is desirable. In coughs with feeble respiratory action vascular excitement with excessive perspiration, irritable dyspepsia, chronic coughs, pthisis pulmonalis, it modifies the fever and cough and helps to sustain strength of the patient. Of value in diarrhea and dysentery. It has tonic influence over the heart, brain and general nervous system, allays irritation of the digestive tract, respiratory organs and has a soothing influence on the nervous system. As its action is mild too much must not be expected from its administration. In the form of a syrup as a menstruum it materially assists the action of other remedies when indicated.
The Materia Medica and Clinical Therapeutics, 1905, was written by Fred J. Petersen, M.D.
