Delphinium Staphisagria. (Stavesacre.)

Preparation.—A tincture is prepared from the ground seed, (it having been pressed between bibulous paper to remove the fixed oil), in the proportion of ℥viij. to Alcohol 98° Oj.

The Tincture of Staphisagria has a specific action upon the reproductive organs of both male and female; but more marked in the first. It quiets irritation of the testes, and strengthens their function; it lessens irritation of the prostate and vesiculae; arrests prostatorrhoea, and cures inflammation of these parts. It also exerts a marked influence upon the urethra, quieting irritation and checking mucous, or muco-purulent discharges; it influences the bladder and kidneys, but in less degree.

The action of Staphisagria upon the nervous system is peculiar. It exerts a favorable influence where there is depression of spirits and despondence, in cases of hypochondriasis and hysteria, especially when attended with moroseness, and violent outbursts of passion.

I employ it in the proportion of: Rx Tincture of Staphisagria, ʒj; Water, ℥iv. A teaspoonful every four hours.

The seed of the Delphinum Consolida or Larkspur, possesses similar medical properties, but is not so active; a tincture may be prepared in the same way, and used in the same dose.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.