Page:A Short History of Aryan Medical Science.djvu/119

VII.] (calf's navel), because the root resembles in appearance the umbilical cord of a calf.

(e) Sapindus emarginatus is styled Bahuphena (very foamy), as, like soap, its berry produces much froth when agitated with water.

(f) Ricinus communis is called Chitrabeeja (spotted-seed), because of the seed being mottled with white, brown, or dark patches.

(g) Mimosa sensitiva is called Lajjalu (shy), from its leaves mimicking sensibility by folding themselves at the slightest touch.

{h) Tribulus terrestris is called Trikantaka (three-prickled), because its fruit is armed with three thorns.

(i) Datura alba is called Ghanta-pushpa (bell-flower), from the shape of its flowers.

(j) Cassia fistula is called Deergha-fala (long-pod), because its pod is cylindrical, about two feet in length, and one to one inch and a half in diameter.

The following are a few names descriptive of the inherent virtue of the herb : —

(a) Amygdalus communis is called Vatavairee