COLCHICUM AUTUMNALE, meadow saffron, or autumn crocus, a plant of the natural order Melanthaceæ, is largely collected for medicinal use in this country. (See BOTANY, vol. v., p. 213.) Its infusion is well known as a powerful remedy for gout, and has long been celebrated in France under the name of Eau Médicinale. The cormus or bulb, and also the seeds, are used in medicine, and have a strong, persistent, bitter taste. Its medicinal virtues appear to be derived from a peculiar alkaloid, which has been termed colchicina. The best preparation is the wine of colchicum, prepared by digesting eight ounces of the seeds in forty ounces of sherry for about a week, shaking the vessel daily, and pressing out the liquor. The usual dose is from 10 to 50 drops taken in water. It possesses intense activity as a poison. The plant derives its name from Colchis in Armenia, where it is said to have abounded. See Christison "On Poisons," and Pharmacopœia Edin.