Smilacina racemosa Desf. syn. Maianthemum racemosum (L.)Link Convallariaceae. False Spikenard, False Solomon's Seal, Scurvy berries, Treacle berries. Herbaceous perennial. Distribution: North America. Austin (2004) reports on Native American traditional usage: Cold infusion of the roots for sore eyes (Cherokee)

to stop bleeding of the lungs (Abenaki) as an Infusion to wash back sores (Algonquin). It was used after miscarriages, to kill tapeworms, counteract poison, for rheumatism, externally on sore feet, and for snakebite (Iroquois). Infusion for rashes and itch (Malecite and Micmac). Cough mixture (Mohegan). Poultice from roots for cuts, back pain, headaches, sore throat (Ojibwa). Revive comatose patients (Potawatomi). Eaten as potato after soaking in lye, parboiling and cooking (Ojibwa). Taste of treacle when ripe but cathartic – eat with caution. Photographed in the Medicinal Garden of the Royal College of Physicians, London.