HEMLOCK

A common, umbelliferous plant of a peculiar odour, and po e ed of narcotic powers. For medical use the leaves should be collected just before the plant flowers; if intended for powder, they should be carefully dried at a temperature not exceeding 212°; if for extract, the juice should be squeezed out by moderate pre ure, and evaporated in a water or steam bath to a proper consistency. The extract of hemlock is perhaps the best preparation; but as its activity is liable to vary, it should be given with caution. An average dose is five grains; an over dose produces giddine , wandering of the mind, dilated pupil, convulsive motions of the muscles of the face, and the other symptoms of this cla of poisons. [s. 562]