Xanthorrhiza is a pharmaceutical name for the root of the xanthorrhiza apifolia. It was first patented during the Civil War, and was used like a tonic such as other Civil War era medicines. Xanthorrhiza was used in infusion, decoction, amputation, and in treating battlefield wounds and infections that soldiers received during battle. It could be taken in liquid form or powder and due to its intensely bitter resin, alcohol proved to be the best menstruum.