Foxglove
By: John
In the time of the Civil War, one type of medical plant that was used was the Foxglove. This plant was believed to cure cardiac problems. Though if more then a small amount was taken, it could cause poisoning. Some symptoms of poisoning are nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
The part that is believed to cure has now been identified by scientist as a glycoside made in the plant. There are also about a dozen other steroid glycosides in its leaves. The glycoside causes the heart to strengthen its contraction, while slowing the beat of the heart making the relation period between beats longer. So the heart gets more rest but is working harder.
This plant, originating from Europe, is often found along roads and in meadows. This plant is on average 36 inches tall, with a variety of colors. It has thick leaves at the bottom of the stem, and it has many bell shaped flowers hanging from the top.
Bibliography
"Foxglove," Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2000. 1999
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/wildseed/27/27.4.html, 4-28-00
http://www.nps.gov/vick/eduguide/chp_5/medptact.htm, 4-28-00