An evergreen tree of considerable size, which is indigenous to California. This tree was first brought to notice as a medicine by Dr. L. Mann, of California, who found it of much value in a variety of affections, prominent among which are nervous headache and atonic diarrhoea. Dr. Mann's first reference to the medicinal virtues of the California laurel was in New Preparations, in 1879, from which the following is excerpted: " The peculiar odor and effect of the leaves upon myself first attracted my attention to this tree as of value therapeutically, and I have since experimented somewhat with its use in practice. The first effect of inhaling the odor of the leaves is, as I have above stated, an almost unendurable frontal headache, and after a period the spinal nerves are painfully irritated also. Its principal effect, however, is upon the cerebro-spinal nervous system. For several years I have treated nervous headache with the laurel quite successfully by instructing the patient to inhale the odor from the pressed leaves, taking care not to continue the inhalation beyond the point of relief." Dr. Mann discovered another quality in the tree which vests it with additional interest: " The laurel has another use which may seem incongruous when considered in connection with its powerful medicinal action. It is, however, highly prized by all who have used it as a flavor, or seasoning for food. It may be used with roasts, stews, soups, stuffing for game and poultry, sausages, or any preparation of meat where a condiment is necessary. In my opinion it is far superior to any of the savory herbs in use, but great care should be used not to exceed the proper quantity for the purpose, which can only be decided by experience. I am accustomed to use five leaves for a ten-pound roast, and usually lay the leaves upon the bottom of the pan under the meat before placing the pan in the oven. They will bear considerable cooking. A skilful cook will soon learn by experience how much is needed for the desired flavor, and I have no doubt that all who taste it will agree with me that it is the most delicate seasoning which they have found. In my own family we do not consider a soup or roast complete without a flavor of laurel, and should not be surprised that, if properly introduced, it will become as popular and as great a necessity as tea and coffee. I hope that some enterprising chemist will analyze this drug, in order that we may know definitely to what its peculiar properties are due, and whether it is at all objectionable as a dietary article. It is certainly a very contradictory drug, producing in large doses almost toxical effects, while in small doses it becomes a stimulant to the appetite.