VERONICA, MALE SPEEDWELL; a genus of the monogynia order, belonging to the diandra class of plants. There are a great number of species, of which the most remarkable are, 1. The officinalis, com-
mon male speedwell, or suellin; a native of Britain, growing on heaths and barren grounds. The blossoms are blue, the leaves elliptical, serrated, and hairy. The leaves have a small degree of astringency, and are somewhat bitter. An infusion of them is recommended by Hoffman as a substitute for tea; but is more astringent and less grateful. The herb was formerly esteemed in medicine for various disorders, but is now almost totally disused. Cows, sheep, goats, and horses, eat it; swine refuse it. 2. The beccabringa, or common brook-lime, found in ditches and rivulets. The leaves are mild and succulent, and are eaten in salads amongst other early springing plants. Cows, goats, and horses, eat it; swine refuse it.