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It is known that opium is more active therapeutically than its morphine content would indicate- Experiments are now described, indicating that this is due to the narcotine contained in the opium. The effect is not of an additive character, but apparently the narcotine strengthens the narcotic and tonic action of the morphine and lessens the injurious action of the latter on the respiratory centre. The most effective mixture appears to be one of equimolecular quantities of the two alkaloids. J. Ch. I. 31. 7. 1912, p. 700.

Cultivated in Gardens.

Two alkaloids, thebaine and isothebaine, have been isolated. During May and June, the period of most rapid growth, thebaine is largely produced, while isothebaine is found mainly in the root during late fall, and after ripening and drying of the aerial plant.