This ordeal poison is referred to in the works of Du Chaillu and Winwood Reade; and several of its toxic properties have been described by MM. Pecholier et Saintpierre. A few specimens were sent to this country in 1864 by the Rev. A. Bushnell of Baraka, and these were very kindly given to the author by Mr Thomson of Glasgow; and a further supply came from the same quarter in 1865. These gentlemen, and Dr Nassau of Bonita, supplied valuable and interesting information regarding its employment.

The poison is known in Africa as Akazga, Boundou (or M'Boundou), Ikaja, and Quai; Akazga being probably derived from nkazga, which signifies pain or hurt. It is used as an ordeal for the detection of real and superstitious crimes on the West Coast of Africa, in a large district which extends north and south of the equator, and many miles inland, and also in the adjacent island of Corisco.