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Fringe Tree
(Chionanthus virginicus (LINN.)
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Fringe Tree
Where To Found It: The United States, from
Pennsylvania to Tennessee.
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.
It is said that both saponin and a glucoside have been found, but
neither appears to have been officially confirmed.
Modern 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.
Other Names: Old Man's Beard. Fringe Tree
Bark. Chionathus. Snowdrop Tree. Poison Ash.
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