This group, though far from a natural one, is nevertheless convenient. It comprehends a great variety of substances, first among which comes.

Ergot of Rye (Spurred Rye, Secale cornatum).—The grain of wheat, barley, oats, and rye is apt to be attacked by a parasitic fungus which imparts to it specific properties. This substance has the power of inducing contraction of unstriped muscular fibre, especially in the smaller arteries and uterus. Ergotised grain, in full doses, gives rise to lassitude, headache, nausea, and diarrhoea. From small quantities, frequently repeated, gangrene of the extremities has resulted. The peculiar influence of ergot on the muscular coat of the uterus renders this agent a valuable medicine when we wish to induce powerful contractions, but in the hands of the ill-intentioned it is frequently used to procure abortion; but its action in this way is far from certain, and at all times dangerous.

Savin and its oil are irritant poisons, only indirectly affecting the uterus; nevertheless, they not unfrequently are used to induce miscarriage.

Oil of Tansy has also been employed in America as an abortive agent, and in three instances, at least, has caused death.

The Yew (Taxus baccata), which has acquired in certain districts a reputation as an abortive, acts as do some others, by producing irritation of the bowels, and so communicating a kind of stimulus to the uterus. The leaves and berries of the yew have both proved fatal, commonly with irritant symptoms; but those of coma have also been observed.

In America extract of Cotton-wood has a reputation as an abortive.