Dictionary.net

type genus of the Celastraceae: bittersweet and shrubby bittersweet; woody vines and shrubs native chiefly to Asia and Australia

The bark, especially the root bark, of Celastrus scandens, climbing bittersweet, fever-twig, a woody climber of the eastern United States; employed in the treatment of hepatic affections and as a diuretic in doses of 3 1/2-1 (2.0-4.0) of a fluidextract.

Used by the American Indians, in the same manner as lobelia, for the cure of syphilis. It is slightly bitter and somewhat astringent. A strong infusion of the dried leaves and seeds has been recommended in aphthae, and as a gargle in scarlatina.