Jacob de La Motta’s 1810 treatise, An Investigation of the Properties and Effects of the Spiraea Trifoliata of Linnaeus, or Indian Physic, offers a comprehensive examination of the medicinal plant known as Indian Physic. This work delves into the plant’s botanical characteristics, historical usage, and therapeutic applications, reflecting the 19th-century American interest in indigenous flora and their potential benefits.​

Indian Physic, scientifically recognized as Gillenia trifoliata (formerly Spiraea trifoliata), is a perennial herb native to eastern North America. The plant is characterized by its three-lobed leaves and pale pink flowers, typically blooming in spring and summer. Historically, Native American communities utilized the root of this plant for its emetic and purgative properties, employing it to treat various ailments such as fevers and digestive disorders. De La Motta’s investigation underscores these traditional uses, providing detailed descriptions of the plant’s effects when administered in specific dosages.​

Beyond its purgative qualities, de La Motta explores the broader medicinal applications of Indian Physic. The treatise discusses the plant’s potential in treating conditions like dysentery, cardiac issues, and abdominal discomfort. De La Motta also notes the plant’s antiseptic properties, suggesting its use in managing infections. The work emphasizes the importance of proper dosage and preparation to harness the therapeutic benefits of Indian Physic safely.​

De La Motta’s work is a valuable historical document that reflects early American botanical studies and the integration of indigenous knowledge into medical practices. While some of the plant’s uses have been reevaluated with modern scientific understanding, the treatise remains a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and the natural world, highlighting the significance of plants in traditional healing practices.