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Fringe Tree
(Chionanthus virginicus LINN.)
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Fringe Tree
Botanical: Chionanthus virginica (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Oleaceae
---Synonyms---Old Man's Beard. Fringe Tree Bark. Chionathus. Snowdrop Tree. Poison Ash.
---Part Used---The dried bark of the root.
---Habitat---The United States, from Pennsylvania to Tennessee.
---Description---A small tree, bearing in June white flowers like snowdrops, and with large leaves like those of Magnolia, it presents a charming appearance. The root-bark is found in single, transversely-curved pieces, often heavy enough (though small) to sink in water. The outside is reddish or greyish-brown, with root scars and whiter patches. The inner surface is a yellowishbrown. The fracture is short, coarsely granular, and yellowish-white. It is almost odourless, but very bitter in taste. The powder is light brown in colour.
---Constituents---It is said that both saponin and a glucoside have been found, but neither appears to have been officially confirmed.
---Medicinal Action and Uses---Aperient, diuretic. Some authorities regard it as tonic and slightly narcotic. It is used in typhoid, intermittent, or bilious fevers, and externally, as a poultice, for inflammations or wounds. Is useful in liver complaints.
---Dosage---Of fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm two or three times a day. Of infusion, 1/2 to 2 fluid ounces two or three times a day. Chiomanthin, 1 to 3 grains.
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