oxystelma

[Pref. oxy- (2), and Gr. stelma =a girdle, a belt.] Bot.: A genus of Asclepiadee. Oxystelma escu lent a , is a twining Indian perennial. Despite its specific name, it is not often eaten. A decoction of it is used as a gargle in aphthous states of the mouth and fauces. In Sind the milky sap is used as a wash for ulcers, and, with turpentine, for itch. ox-ý-stom-a-ta, s. pl . [Pref. oxy- (1), and stom ata , pl. of stoma =the mouth.] Zool.: A family of Brach your ous Crustaceans, founded by Milne-Edwards. The carapace is orbic ular and arched in front; the anterior claws are large and much compre ed. He divided it into the Leucosians, the Calappians, the Corystians, and the Do rip pians.