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MEDICAL    BOTANIST.

                       AND

  EXPOSITOR OF DISEASES AND REMEDIES.

              IN TWO VOLUMES.
           VOLUME FIRST—in six parts.
Part First—contains a description of Medical Plants, with their
  localities, and directions for collecting and curing them for
  medical purposes.
Part Second—contains an arrangement of Medical Plants into
  classes and other  important divisions, in which their medical
  properties and preparation in a simple form are explained.
Part Third—contains an invaluable selection of Recipes.
Part Fourth—contains a description of the symptoms of diseases,
  with references to the different reincdl-js for their removal.
Part Fifth—contains remarks on Dyspepsia,  Diet,  Dress, and
  Exercise.
Part Sixth—contains remarks on the temperaments of the human
  system, and on Phrenology.
              ALSO,  A  GLOSSARY.
                 VOLUME SECOND.

        THE  MOTHER'S GUIDE:
Contains an abridged System of Midwifery, and  much useful
  instruction upon the diseases and condofcms peculiar to females;
  with directions for the preparation or specific remedies which
  such* diseases and conditions requip

         Man should observe hfnd Nature's laws,
         And from them learn result and cause.

      BY  DANIEL J.  cMtB, BOTANIC PHYSICIAN,
AUTHOR OF THE FAMILY ADVISER. PLAIN SYSTEM^-6tJ>fi|$fcpRY .
    MEDICAL INSTRUCTER, AND FEMALE'S M*SlCAL GUIDl" (.^ >v



                C A S TI L E, N. Yy£r , ,       r rj
          PUBLISHES  BY  THE A {J T if © R'.  ' ,Z '."• t"'
                        1845. 
Entered according to Act of Congress,  in the year 1846,  by
             DR.  DANIEL J.  COBB,
In the Clerk's Office of the Northern District of New York.
      BRUITED BT
CIO.  H. BIDWKLL,
   DA.fSYILLK, IV. T. 
PREFACE.
   Tho only apology offered for presenting the following
- pages to the public,  is, that a work of this description is
 greatly needed  by the community generally ; and the au-
 thor is of the opinion that he cannot render as great a ser-
 vice to his fellow citizens in any other way, as by furnish-
 ing them with an expositor of diseases and remedies,  the
 plan of which is to bring the directions for the preparation
 and application of remedies before the reader  in so plain
 and comprehensive a manner as to be clearly understood ;
 and be referred to with safety and success, in all cases and
 stages of disease, 10 which  the inhabitants of our country
 are liable.
   In early life the author was severely afflicted  with dis-
 ease, for which he found no remedy with  those who claim-
 ed supremacy in the  healing art;  and was, therefore,  re-
 luctantly compelled to  seek for relief from a source then
 exceedingly  unpopular.  Botanic remedies, administered
 with a very limited knowledge of any science, had a health-
 ful influence upon  the system, which minerals, administer-
 ed by the most skillful  hands,  had failed to accomplish.
 Gratitude for the  great benefits received,  enkindled  the
 most profouod devotion to the cause ;  and a willingness to
 sacrifice ease, interest,  and the popular applause of man.
 has been the consequence.
   The author does not  pretend to a  knowledge of every
 valuable remedy;  yet  he  does believe,  most sincerely,
 that no publication extant,  contains so great a variety of
 safe and efficacious remedies,  so clearly brought to view,
 and those, too, within the reach of all, as this compilation.
 No better evidence need be  required of their efficacy, than 
if
PREPACK.
can  be obtained by referring to those families in which
they have been exclusively used for many years ; by which
the principle has been fully  established, thnt  remedies at
hand are the preferable remedies.
   This work is arranged  with a strict regard to this object:
that every family may collect and cure properly, prepare
seasonably,  and have on hand at all times, every variety
of mediciae, which diseases commonly met with  may re-
quire ;  which, with a little experience and observation, any
one capable  of following the directions given, can  adminis-
ter with safety and success.
   This publication is also intended for the benefit of those,
and the community in which  they reside, who  are so anx-
iously  in favor of the circulation of an invaluable prepara-
tion herein described,  that  they  have  been  irresistibly
compelled to engage in the preparation and circulation of
(something like) it; and being thus driven from their own
legitimate business, appear to forget, that he who bears the
responsibilities and  losses naturally attending the  practice
of medicine, should also reap  and enjoy all its profits,  hon-
estly his due.
   The great labor and expense, attending the compilation
of this work, and the  extra pains which will attend the
sale of it, compared with books of common interest, and up-
on the  merits of which the community are better prepared
to judge, is a sufficient  reason to any reflecting mind, why
this  work should  be  sold  for more than ordinary  book
price ;  yet the author has the satisfaction to know that ho
does not demand from the purchaser one tenth  part of the
intrinsic value of the work to any ordinnry family.
                                   THE AUTHOR. 
      MEDICAL  BOTANIST,

                      AHD

EXPOSITOR OF DISEASES AND REMEDIES.
PAET  FIRST.
  1.  ADDER TONGUE.—Eryfhroniumfjanccolalum.
  This  plant may be found early in the spring on rich
moist land.   The  root  is  perennial and bulbous,  from
which arises one  or two narrow  pointed leaves,  quite
spotted  like  the adder.  From the large roots, a smooth
stem  rises from  between  the  leaves from  six  to ten
inches  in hight,   bearing  on its  top a  bright  yellow
flower, about an inch in length, and turns downward by a
short  crook, near the top of the stem.  This plant soon
disappears.  An infusion of the tops and roots is very pu-
rifying to the blood, and especially after the uae of mercu-
ry,.   It  also possesses diuretic properties.   See classes 9
and 11.
              2. ALOES.—Aloe Spkata.
   This is a perennial plant, and has several varieties.  It
 flourishes in  Europe, Asia,  Africa and America.  The
h Spcotrine, from the Island of Socotra, is considered best;
 yet the hepatic is often used by physicians.  This is an
 article of commerce, sold  by  druggists.   It  possesses
 cathartic properties.  See class 8. 
         »

6                 MEDICAL BOTANIST.

  S. ALUM ROOT.—Geranium Maculalum.—crane's
          BILL—FLUX ROOT--WILD GERANIUM.
  This is common on most kinds of soil in this country,
in  woods,  new  meadows,  pastures,  &c.    The  root is
perennial, from which rises a number of furzy stalks, early
in the spring, to the hight of one foot, more or less, accor-
ding to the fertility of the soil, not thickly set with  leaves.
At the  end of the branches, a purple blossom, consisting of
five leaves, is, after a short time, succeeded by a kind of
spike,  resembling a Crane's bill.  The root  is about the
nize of one's finger, irregular in form, of a reddish brown
color, often full of protuberances, sometimes a number of
inches in length,  and  possesses astringent and  styptic
properties.   See classes 6 and 23.

        4.  ANGELICA.—Angelica Sylvestris.
  This is often found on  rich,  intervale land, sometimes
in 6wamps, arfd is cultivated in gardens.   A large hollow
sialk, from a perennial root, rises to the hightof four or five
feet, is divided near the top into a number of branches ; the
extremities of which again divide into small stems, which
bear the seeds, similar to the garden parsnip,  except that
they are smaller and curl together.  Both the  root and
the seeds are aromatic, and possess anodyne, anti-spasmodic,
carminative, diaphoretic, nervine, and stimulating proper-
ties.  See classes 1, 5, 7,  10, 20 and 22.
           5. ANISE.—Pimpinella Anisum.
  The history of this plant, shows it to be an annual plant
of Syria and other parts of the eastern continent, and that
it is cultivated  in  Europe and America.  The seeds  are
highly esteemed  for  their  carminative properties, and
essential oil.  Seo class 7, and essential oils.
       6.  ASSAFETIDA.—Ferula Assafcetida.
  This gum resin is the inspissated juice obtained by cut-
ting the roots of a plant, growing  spontaneously on  the
mountains in Persia.   That which is clear, of a pale red- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
dish color, variegated with white, is best.   It possesses anti-
spasmodic,  expectorant,  laxative and nervine properties.
See classss 5,  16, 17 and 20.
7. AVENS  ROOT.—Geum Rivale.—chocolate root.
  This grows in swamps and wet places.  The tops near
the ground, considerably resemble those of the common
English  field  turnip,  and  continue  green  through the
winter.  A stalk rises annually to the hight of one foot or
more, and divides into a number of branches.   The blos-
soms are succeeded  by  burs.   The root is not larger than
the little finger ; is  of a dark brown color, much esteemed
by many as a beverage at meals, and is a valuable anodyne,
astringent and nervine.   See classes 1, G and 20.
   8. BALM OF GILEAD.—Populus Balsamifera.
  This  is  cultivated  by many for  shade,  and  in  some
places grows spontaneously.   It is  a species of poplar ;
has large buds, which, if gathered in the fall, warmed and
prepared, yield a valuable balsam.   See Balsams.
         9. BARBERRY.—Berlerris Vulgaris.
   This shrub grows spontaneously in New England, and
many other parts of the United States, on mountains and
hills, in stony places  by the wayside, and is cultivated as
a door yard  shrub, where  it soon forms a cluster six or
eight feet in hight.  The bark externally is ash color,
and internally yellow.   The thorns on this shrub generally
grow three together ;  the leaves grow in a whorl; the blos-
soms appear in May or June, in a loose pendulous cluster ;
are of a yellow color,  and are succeeded by oblong berries,
which  become of a  scarlet  color, and possess laxative
properties.   The bark  of the root possesses anti-bilious,
cathartic and tonic properties.   See classes 3,8,17, and 25.

             10.  BASSWOODORLIN.
   This is  a forest tree on rich moist land, often grows to
a large size, straight and tall, and has large broad leaves. 
8
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
The inner bark of the root or of the young sprouts, which
is very mucilaginous, makes a valuable poultice for pain-
ful  swellings.  The leaves are good for draughts.   See
poultices and draughts.

         11. BAYBERRY.—Myrica Cerifera.
  This shrub grows spontaneously in most,  if not all of
the United States, and  appears to prefer different soils in
different sections ; as in New England it grows on dry up-
land,  and in the western part of New York, and at the
south, it grows on low land, and in swamps.   That which
grows on dry upland,  is considered  more mild  and  less
emetic than  that found on low land.  At the south, too,
it grows  much larger than in New England.
  The berries from which the well known Bayberry tal-
low is made,  grow close to the branches,  either singly or
in clusters;  are  at first green, and, in autumn, of a dull
white color.   The bark of the root possesses astringent,
detergent, emetic, errhine, stimulating and tonic properties.
See classes 6,12,15, 22 and 25.
           12.  BEARBERRY.—Uva  Ursi.
  This is an evergreen shrub, growing  spontaneously on
the mountains in New Jersey, and other parts of the Uni-
ted States.  The leaves are of a pale green, small, smooth
and oval; and  possess astringent, diuretic, nephritie and
tonic properties.  See classes 6, 11,19 and 25.
                     13. BEET.
  The leaves of the garden beet are valuable for draughts,
and for painful swellings.   The root of blood beets, boiled
tender, the decoction strained and  simmered to a salvo,
makes an exceedingly  valuable application for  inflamed
and indolent sores.   See draughts and salves.

      14.  BETH ROOT.—Trillium Latifolium.
  There is a family of plants called by this name, some mem-
bers of which may be found on almost every variety of soil. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
9
It rises early in the spring, one foot or more in hight, has
three oval leaves on the top of a smooth  stem, from  the
center of which, on a short stem, a  bell-shaped  blossom
puts forth,  composed of three leaves  ; some of beautiful
whiteness,  some of deep  red, while others  are paler,  or
nearly white.   These are accompanied with three outside
green leaves.  The root  of every variety  is similar  in
appearance ; bulbous, and  surrounded by  small fibers;
externally of a light brown color,  and internally white.
The red and the white are the most valuable.  The root
only is used, which possesses anodyne, nephritic, nervine,
styptic and  tonic properties.   See classes  1, 19, 20, 23
and 25.
 15. BETONY.—Betonica Officinalis.—head  betont.
  This grows on thinly timbered oak and chestnut land,
in woods and uncultivated places in  fields.   The root is
perennial, and branched  into  large  fibers,  from  which
deeply indented leaves, four or five inches in length, on
short foot stalks.   From the  center of  these  a rough
Btalk  rises, six or eight inches in hight,  bearing on its
top, a soft oblong clump, considerably resembling a large
hop ;  from which the blossoms put forth in May, in form
of a parrot's beak;  the upper portion of which is red, and
the  lower yellow.   The leaves and roots possess antacid,
detergent, diaphoretic and nervine properties.  See class-
es 2, 9, 10 and 20.

     1G. BITTERSWEET.—Solarium Dulcamara.
  This grows on rich ground, in hedges and bushy places.
It has a smooth woody vine,  which winds itself around
small  underwood  near by ;  and sometimes it is found
partly imbedded  into the timber.   The  leaves resemble
those of the  apple-tree.   The blossoms appear  in  June;
are in clusters, and are succeeded  by berries, which be-
come of a deep yellow.   The bark of the root  is also of
a yellow color, and possesses anti-septic, detergent, dia- 
10               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
phoretic and nephritic properties.   See classes 4,  9, 10
and 19.
  Great care should be observed in collecting this invalu-
able medicine, as several vines somewhat resemble it, and
some of them are poisonous.

     17.  BLACK ALDER.—Prinos Verticillalus.
  This grows on wet swampy ground ;  sometimes to the
hight  of  eight  or ten feet.  It  bears an  abundance  of
berries, which become red, and if chewed, turn the  spittle
yellow.   The bark is thickly  interspersed  with specks,
and possesses detergent, laxative and vermifuge properties.
See classes 9, 17 and 26.
    18. BLACK CHERRY.— Prima Virginiana.
  This is a common  forest tree, much used by cabinet
makers, and bears the well known and much  esteemed
black  cherry.   The  bark of the root  is far superior to
that of the trunk, and  possesses anti-bilious, emmenagogue,
laxative, stimulating and tonic properties.  See classes 3,
13, 17, 22 and 25.
  19. BLACK  MAPLE.—Acer Barbalum.—STKirim
               MAPLE--WHISTLE WOOD.
  This small forest tree grows on cold  hemlock timbered
land; has a streaked, greenish bark, and  large leaves in
form of the sugar maple leaf, which possess great efficacy
in removing  inflammations.   The  bark is a valuable
detergent.  See class 9, draughts and washes.

       20. BLACK POPLAR.—Populus Nigra.
  This is the common poplar, growing spontaneously, and
is well known in all parts of the country.  The bark pos-
sesses tonic  and vermifuge properties.   See classes 2&
and 26.
   21. BLACK VERVINE.—Verhena Nigra.
This plant grows on intervals and other rich lands in 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
11   •
waste  places, at  the edge of fields and  by the way-side.
From a perennial,  fleshy,  branched root, the stalks arise
annually from two to four feet in hight.  The stalk  and
its branches, which are  numerous, are smooth and of a
dark purple color.   The leaves  resemble those  of blue
vervine.   The blossoms are slim, of inferior appearance,
and are  succeeded  by pods  or shells of a  dark color;
otherwise resembling those of the mullen,  except being
smaller.   The root is the part used, and possesses deter-
gent, diuretic, expectorant and nervine properties.   Se«
classes 9,  11,  16 and 20.
  Dr. Childs, of Mount  Morris, Livingston county, con-
siders  the root of this  plant  of  the  greatest value,  and
recommends it internally in strong infusions and in sirups ;
and, externally, as  a wash and fomenting  application to
painful tumors.
       22.  BLISTER ROOT.—toothache root.
   This grows on rich low lands, in woods, new pastures,
<Szc.  A number of  furzy foot stalks spring six or eight
inches in hight, from a bulbous perennial  root,  bearing
leaves resembling those of  currant  bushes.   The  seed
stalk  rises one foot or more in  hight,  is considerably
branched, and bears  bright yellow blossoms, succeeded by.
small burs.   The root is surrounded by small white fibers,
and is exceedingly pungent.   See class 14.

    23. BLOOD ROOT.—Sanguinaria Canadensis.
   This grows  on rich  moist  beach  and maple timbered
land,  in the  forest,  and in  fields where it can  remain
undisturbed.  In some  places it is abundant.  Early in
the spring large leaves arise on a slim smooth stem, to the
hight of six or  eight inches;  are in a round form, divided
from  the edge  about half way to the center  into seven
parts, the center portion of which is again partially divided
into  three  parts.  The blossom rises on a  smooth slim
stem, a little above the leaves, and consists of eight leaves
of beautiful whiteness.   The root is about the size of alum 
12               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 root,  and, if broken when green., a juice issues  from <i
 resembling blood.  The root  possesses anti-bilious, anti-
 spasmodic, cathartic, emetic,  errhine  and expectorating
 properties of great value.  It also possesses  lithontriptic,
 nephritic and nervine  properties.   See  classes 3, 5, 8,
 12, 15, 16, 18, 19 and 20.

          24.  BLUE FLAG.— Iris Versicolor.
   This has a perennial root,  and grows on rich, open,
 uncultivated land, near swamps and in other wet  places.
 A number of thick, narrow,  green  leaves rise in April
 and May to the  hightof ten or  twelve inches, and are
 soon  accompanied by a round smooth stem one  foot or
 more in hight, bearing on its top a purple blossom very
 much  resembling those of the flower de luce,  which  is
 succeeded by a triangular pod about two inches in  length.
 The roots branch out  from the center in  every direction,
 are two or three inches in  length, and  generally quite
 tapering.  They possess anti-bilious,  cathartic, detergent
 and nervine properties.  See classes 3,  8  and 20.

    25.  BLUE SKULLCAP.—Scutellaria Lateriflora.
   This grows on rich low land, partly or  entirely cleared,
•but never plowed.   It rises from one to two feet in hight,
 has a square stalk, branches and leaves in opposite pairs ;
 leaves  broad at  the base, thin, notched,  and taper to a
 alim point; blossoms thickly set  exclusively occupy the
 ends  of the branches,  are long,  pale  blue,  and are suc-
 ceeded by caps of a peculiar form.  TWs plant  possesses
 anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic, nervine and tonic properties.
 See classes 5, 10, 20 and 25.
   1 cured a case of St. Vitus'a dance  fourteen or fifteen
 years since, and the patient remains free from the disease,
 by the  use of a strong infusion of  this plant.   Dr.  Beach,
 I observe, highly recommends it for the same purpose.

       26. BLUE VERVINE.—Verbena Hastata.
    This plant grows on moist rich land, from two to four 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
13
[Vet in hight; is divided  near the top into short branches,
which terminate in slim stems three or four inches in
length,  surrounded from one end to the  other with small
blue blossoms, succeeded by small  shells* containing the
need.   This  herr)  possesses  anti-bilious, diaphoretic  and
expectorant properties.   See classes 3, 10 and 16.

        27. BLUE VIOLET.—Viola Corulafa.
  This  grows on rich  moist land  thinly timbered, and in
pn6tures, meadows, &c.   Early in the spring a number
of broad leaves put forth on slim foot stalks three or four
inches in hight.   The blossom,  a beautiful blue violet,
rises a little above the leaf.   The root is perennial, exter-
nally rough, seldom as large  as the little finger, or more
than  an inch in length ; is mucilaginous, and  possesses
diaphoretic, expectorant,  laxative and  nephritic properties.
Vee classes 10, 16, 17 and 19.
  28.  BOGVEIN.—Menyanthes  Trifoliata.—bog rean.
   This valuable plant grows in a deep, black, mucky soil,
where the water  stands much of the year.  One or more
small  smooth stalks rise  from eight  to  twelve  inches in
hight, and terminate in a triple compound leaf.   Blossoms
white, and appear in June.  The root is perenrlial, about ■
the size of the little finger, of a spongy texture ; is intensely
bitter, sometimes  a number of yards in length, and varies
in color.  Different parts of the same root will be green,
a deep yellow, and nearly white, as it is more or less expo-
sed to the action of light and air.   It frequently grows in
clusters, when the roots form a complete net work.  The
root,  the only part  used, possesses  anti-bilious, cathartic,
diaphoretic,  tonic and vermifuge properties.   See classes
3, 8, 10, 25 and 26.
   Another plant,  the root of which considerably resembles
this, grows on the  same kind of soil,   It is  powerfully
pungent.  Let it alone, 
14
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
29. BONESET.—Eupatorium Perfoliatum.—thorough-
   wort— THOROUGHSTEM--THOROUGHWAX--VEGETABLE
   ANTIMONY.
   This grows  most abundant  on new wet land, partly
cleared.   A furzy stalk rises  from two to four feet  in
hight,  passing  through the center of each  leaf, which
appears like two leaves  in opposite pairs.   The leaves
are rough, from  six to ten inches in length, and lesseri
gradually to a slim point.   It has a bushy flat top of white
blossoms the latter part of summer.  These and the leaves
are the only part used, and possess antacid, anti-bilious,
diaphoretic, emetic, stimulating and tonic properties.  See
classes 2, 3, 10, 12, 22 and 25.
         30. BOX WOOD.—Cornus  Florida.
   This small forest tree is found in thinly timbered forests,
where the land is very rich and  moist, and sometimes on
dry upland.   It has a rough bark and  large white blos-
soms, which are the parts chiefly used.   See class 25.

31. BRAMBLE BUSH.—Rubus VMosus.—blackhekix
                        BUSH.
   This flourishes on almost every variety of soil where it
is  sufficiently dry, in hedges, in the corners of fences, and
in bushy places, and bears the much esteemed blackberry.
The bark of the root  possesses astringent,  detergent and
emetic properties.  See classes 6, 9 and 12.

      32.  BROOK LIME.—Veronica Beccabunga.
   This small running vine, with its small evergreen leaves,
lines the banks of rivulets from living springs in all  parts
of the country.  Its blossoms are blue, and appear in  Julv.
This plant possesses antacid, detergent,  diaphoretic, diu-
retic and tonic properties.   See classes 2, 9,10,11 and 25.

33. BUGLE WEED.—LycopusVirginicus.—archangel.
   This plant grows where the land is rich and very moist,
either  partly cleared or in fields.   It rises from twelve to 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
15
eighteen inches in hight, has a square stalk, branches and
leaves in  opposite pairs,  and a small  bur surrounds the
stalk at each joint.  The leaves  are of a nauseous bitter
taste,  and possess astringent, styptic and  tonic properties.
See elasses 6, 23 and 25.
          34. BURDOCK.—Arctium Lappa.
  This «grows around  barns  and on  uncultivated places
where  the land  is rich and the soil  loose, in door-yards,
&c., on almost every farm in this country.  It has* large
leaves  near  the  ground,  but those on  the stalk and  its
branches are smaller.  The burs are very troublesome to
man and beast.   The seeds and roots possess carminative
and  detergent  properties.  See  classes 7 and  9.   The
leaves are invaluable for draughts.  See draughts.

    35. BUTTERNUT TREE.—Juglans Cinerea.
  This  tree flourishes in rich  soils  in all  parts of this
country, and is  so generally known  that a description is
unnecessary, farther than to observe that it bears the well
known nut  called the butternut.  The bark of the root
possesses cathartic and epispastic properties.  See classes
b and 14.
     36. C ALA MINT.—wild basil—horsemint.
  This odoriferous plant grows on moist land and springy
places,  on mountains,  by the side of streams, and in
swamps.   It rises from  one to three feet in hight, branch-
ing toward the top; has pale green  leaves  resembling
those  of catnip, and small white blossoms immediately
above each joint, succeeded by small burs which encircle
the stalk.   A grateful odor is emitted from the fresh plant.
It possesses sudorific properties.   See class 24.

  37.  CALAMUS.—Acorus  Calamus.—sweet flag.
  This variety of flag is so well known in all parts of the
country, that a  description is unnecessary.  The root is
exceedingly pungent, and when chewed,  causes a free 
16
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
discharge  of saliva, and  injures the teeth.  It possesses
carminative, emetic, stimulating and  sudorific  properties,
and is exceedingly valuable in a number  of compounds.
See recipes.

         38. CAMPHOR.—Laurus Camphor a.
  This gum is obtained from trees growing in Sumatra,
China and Japan, and is also contained in  a fluid state in
a number of the vegetable productions of our own country.
Elecampane,  ginger,  lavender, peppermint, sage,  sassa-
fras, &c., are said to contain camphor, but not in sufficient
quantities  for  manufacturing.   The  gum  possesses anti-
spasmodic,  stimulating and  sudorific properties,  and ia
usefully employed in a number of the compounds.   See
recipes.

          39. CARAWAY.—Carum Carui.
  This  is cultivated in gardens, door-yards,  &c.   The
seeds, when full grown, are  much admired  for their agree-
able flavor.  They possess  carminative properties.   See
class 7.
           40.  CARROT.—Daacus Carota.
  This plant is  cultivated by farmers generally, either in
gardens or fields, for culinary  purposes and  for cattle.
The root, grated or boiled tender, is exceedingly valuable
for poultices.  See poultices.

      41. CASTOR  BEAN.—Ricinus  Communis.
  A well known cathartic oil is expressed from the castor
bean, a native of Africa and the  East  Indies, but is now
extensively cultivated in.many places both in Europe and
America   That which is cold pressed is the most pleasant.
See class 8.
4$. CATFOOT.—Cataria Pedis.—gil-grow-bv-the-
                     ground.
 This  grows in many places by the way-si^e, and at a 
medical botanist.
17
little distance considerably resembles low mallows.  The
vines are slender, and do not rise from the ground, in their
growth, without support; and, in extending to considerable
distance, they frequently intermingle and cross each other
so as to form  a complete  mat over the  ground.  The
leaves are about the size and form of a caj's track.  The
blossoms are small, slender and pale blue.  This is a mihi
yet valuable medicine, and  possesses  antacid, anti-bilious.
carminative, diaphoretic and nephritic  properties.   Set
classes 2, 3, 7,  10 and 19.
            43.  CATNIP.—Nepeta Cataria.
   There  is not, probably,  a  mother in our  country, po
ignorant of vegetation, as not to know this valuable plant;
yet few know its worth.   Cats are exceedingly fond of it;
whence its name.   The leaves and blossoms, with thoi:
husks, possess anodyne, carminative, diaphoretic and sudo-
rific properties.   See classes 1, 7, 10 and 24.

        44. CAT-TAIL FLAG.— Iris  Palustris.
   The leaves of this variety of flag, are so much used for
chair bottoms, and by eoopers in all parts of the country,
that description is  unnecessary.  The root  is the  par:
used, and  is long, slim and spongy.  Sound roots must be
selected for  use.   It  possesses anti-septic and detergent
properties.  See classes  4 and 9.  Good in  poultkef..
See  poultices.

        45. CAYENNE.— Capsicum,  Annuum.
   The common  red pepper, and other kinds of an inferior
quality, are often used as a substitute  for this.  But the
genuine African cayenne,  is  far  superior to any other,
as it  is more pure, more  pleasant and  more powerful.
This, when pulverised, is nearly of a bright yellow color.
and possesses anti-septic, diaphoretic, errhine,  expectorant
and  stimulating  properties.    See classes  4,  10, 15, Id,
21 and 22.
     VOL.  ?.              2 
IH
MEDICAL BOTANIST,
        46.  CHAMOMILE.— Anthemis Nobilis^
  This  is cultivated  by many, being much  esteemed for
the richness of its odor.   Its flowers are sold by the drug-
gists.   They possess anodyne, antacid, carminative, dia-
phoretic, nervine and tonic properties.  See classes 1, 2r
7,  10, 20 and 25.
           47. CHARCOAL.—Carbo Ligni.
   This should be made of maple timber,  sound and well
charred ;  pulverised with  as little exposure  to the  air,
after  being withdrawn from the  bed, as possible, and kept
closely corked for  use.   If exposed to the air after it is
sufficiently cool, it will absorb a large quantity of carbon-
ic acid gas,  which is  injurious.   Pure charcoal possesses
antacid, anti-septic  and laxative  properties.  See classes
 ;, 1, 17, and poultices.

       48. CINNAMON.—Laurus  Cinnamomum.
   This is  the bark of the sprouts of  a tree which  grows
in the  East Indies  and various other  parts of  the eastern
 •ontinent, and in the West Indies.  That imported from
 'hina is  called  cassia.  It has  an  agreeable aromatic
laste, slightly astringent and stimulating.   It is useful in a
.iu;nber of the compounds.   See recipes.

    49. CLIVERS.—Galium Aparine.—cleavers.
   This plant grows on low rich ground,  in shady places,
and  near streams;  has a slender,  square, sickle-edged
vine, often a number of  feet in  length ;  has a number of
".tranches,  six  or eight small  pointed leaves in  a  whorl
around the stalk at  each  joint, and small  white blossoms.
This vine either rests on the ground,  or attaches itself to
hushes or  other substances near  by.
   A number of writers agree in stating that heat destroys
.ho virtues of this plant,  while others direct it to be pre-
pared in boiling water, and even in decoction.  I therefore
submit these conflicting opinions to the test of experience ;
preferring its preparation, however,  in soft cold  water. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
19
It possesses diuretic, lithontriptic and nephritic properties.
See classes 11, 18 and 19.
       50. CLOVES.—Eugenia Caryophyllata.
  These are.the flower buds of the clove tree ;  are impor-
ted  from warm climates, apd  extensively used as a com-
mon spice.   They  possess carminative,  diaphoretic  and
stimulating properties, useful  in a number of compounds,
and disguise the taste of other articles.

61.  COCASH.—Aster  Puniceus.—frost weed—rheu-
                     matic weed.
  This grows  by the side of streams and in  other wet
places ; has a furzy stalk, which rises four or  five feet in
hight,  and long narrow leaves ; those at the bottom  con-
tinue green through the winter.  The blossoms are blue,
appear late in the fall, and  remain until  withered by
severe frosts.  The roots are  long, slim,  and  fragrant,
and possess detergent, nervine and stimulating properties.
See classes 9, 20 and  21.
                    52. COHUSH.
   There is a family of plants called  by this name, viz.
The black, the blue, the red and  the white ;  all of which
are used as medicine.  The black, {Actea  Racemosa,)
also called rattle weed, squaw root, &c, grows on rich
chestnut and  oak  timbered land,  thinly timbered, and
undisturbed  places  in  fields.  A number of stalks rise
annually, from four to eight feet in  hight;  divided into
branches one  foot or more from the ground,  from which
a single smooth stalk rises, and terminates in a plume of
white flowers, succeeded  by small shells, containing the
seeds.   The  root is externally  black,  has  many  large
fibers,  is powerfully stimulating,  and  possesses also anti-
upasmodic,  detergent, emmenagogue and laxative proper-
ties.  See classes 5, 9, 13, 17 and 22.
   The blue, the  red, and  the white,  grow on rich  land,
leavily timbered  but not wet;  rarely exceed  twenty-five 
20
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
or thirty inches in  hight, are divided into branches near
the top, and are known by the color of their berries.  The
roots only are used.   These are said to produce opposite
effects.  I am not sufficiently acquainted with their med-
ical properties to class them, or give suitable directions
ibr their use.
       53.  COLIC ROOT.—Aletris Farinoea.
  This grows on dry sandy or gravelly land, thinly tim-
bered with chestnut, oak and pine.   A number of narrow-
ish  pale green leaves on short foot stalks, rise annually
from  the root,  and occupy the  place  of those  of the
preceding year's growth, which retain in part, their green
color through the winter.   From the centre of these, a
slim stalk rises from one to two feet in hight, the top of
which is a plume of white blossoms in July.   The root is
white and hard, but not woody ; about the size, and in
the form of a large grub worm, and is surrounded by  white
wiry fibers, which should be separated from it before it is
pulverized.   This root is of great value, and  possesses
anodyne, carminative, nervine and tonic properties.   See
classes 1, 7, 20 and 25.
         54. COLUMBO.—Frasera  Walteri.
  This grows on  rich oak  timbered  land,  from four to
eight feet in hight,  has a number of branches at each
joint, and  long smooth  leaves ;  and for a stalk of one
year's growth,  none appears more majestic.  The root it>
large,  long  and smooth, a little  yellow,  and a pleasant
bitter.   It possesses  laxative and tonic properties.   See
classes 17 and 25.
       55. COMFREY.—Symphilum Officinalis.
  This  plant  is common about gardens,  and  generaHjr
known; and is often used in sirups as a  soothing tonic.
It is also good  in poultices.   See class 25 and poultices. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
31
           56.  COWFOOT.—CAMELSFOOT.
  This  plant grows on sandy and gravelly  soils, along
the banks of streams and on the side of hills, but is rarely
met with in this part of the country.   It most frequently
grows in groups or clusters ;  has a two lobed  leaf, glossy
on  the upper, and downy on the under side, on the top of
each stalk, which is straight, small and furzy, and from
six to twelve inches in hight.  The root consists of many
long, small, yellowish woody fibers,  from one  principal
root, and1 possesses  expectorant, nervine and  stimulating
properties.                                Dr. D. H.
        57, COWHAGE.—Dolichos Pruriens.
  " This is a climbing plant, growing in great abundance
in warm climates,  particularly in the West Indies.   The
pods are about four inches in length, are round and  as
large as a man's finger, and thickly set on the outside with
stiff' brown hairs, which, when applied to the skin, occa-
sion an intolerable itching."   This hairy  substance is
prepared for use by dipping the ripei)ods in sirup or thin
molasses to moisten the hairs, then scrape them from the
pods with a knife,  and " when the sirup  is  rendered  by
the hairs, as thick as honey, it is fit for use."   See class2G.
  It is further stated that the alimentary canal is shielded
from the action ot  these  hairs, by the mucous coat with
which it is lined throughout, while they act mechanically
upon the worms and destroy them.

  58. CRAWLEY ROOT.—Pclrospora  Andromeda.
  This  grows on dry timbered land of a rich soil;  has a
dark colored  stalk of  inferior appearance,  from six to
twelve  inches in hight, bearing  on its top a number ot
yellow  blossoms, succeeded by pendulous pods containing
the  seed.  The roots  consist  of  numerous layers,  short
and tender;  the appearance  of which  has given it the
name of chicken's toes.   These roots possess anodyne, dia-
phoretic, nervino and sudorific properties.   See classes
1, 10, 20 and 24.
• 
22
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
          59. CROTON OIL.—Oleum Tiglii.
   This oil is obtained by expression from the seeds of a
small tree growing in Hindostan, Ceylon, and other parts
of India.  It is a very powerful cathartic.  See recipe.
  It is recommended in cases of Dropsy, Apoplexy, Azc.

        60. CUCKOLD.—Agrimonia Eupatoria.
  This grows in gardens, plowed fields, and in wet places  ;
has a square stalk from two to four feet in hight, branches
in opposite pairs, bearing at their extremities a Sail like
blossom, succeeded  by forked seeds about half an inch in
length.   The  young leaves carefully dried in  the shade,
make a beverago for table use of a superior quality and
flavor.  The  blossoms, leaves and seeds  possess anti-spas-
modic, detergent, diuretic, nervine  and sudorific proper-
ties.   See classes 5, 9, 11, 20 and 24.
   61. CUCUMBER TREE.—Magnolia Acuminata.
  This  tall,  handsome  forest tree grows on  rich moist
land ; leaves of a slender oval form, large, deep green, and
smooth.  It bears a fruit about three inches in length, near-
ly an inch in diameter and tapering, and while green, ap-
pears rough by the growth of the seeds near the surface,
which at maturity drop out, leaving  the cucumber quite
rough.  The fruit and bark of the root have an agreeable
spicy flavor, quite pungent, and possess carminative, stimu-
lating, tonic, and (the bark) vermifuge properties.   See
classes 7, 22, 25 and 26.
 62. CULVER  ROOT.—Septandria Virginica.—<w\.-
     VER'S PHVSIC—BOWMAN ROOT--BRINTON ROOT.
  This grows on rich uncultivated open intervales, from
two to six feet in hight;  has from four to six narrow poin-
ted  leaves in a whorl around the stalk, at short intervals
nearly to the top, which is divided into a number of
branches or plumes of small  white blossoms.  The root
is uneoual in form, has numerous fibers, and is of a dark
eo'          root of this plant is  highly recommended ad
• 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               'J3
n mild, yet thorough cathartic, detergent, diaphoretic and
nervine.   See  classes 8, 9, 10,  and 20.  Good in rases
of inflammation.
     63. DANDELION.—Leontodon  Taraxacum.
  This valuable plant is  common on every variety of
soil, where the  ground is sufficiently dry, has a number
of leaves close to the ground ; from the center of which
a round smooth  hollow stem,  rises from two to  eighteen
inches in   hight, on the top of which a  bright yellow
blossom is succeeded by a downy ball.   A  milky fluid
exudes from the  top or  roots when broken.  The whole of
this plant, top and root, is used, and possesses anti-bilious,
detergent,  diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative  properties.
See classes 3, 9,  10, 11 and 17.
  64.  DEADLY NIGHTSHADE.—Alropa Belladonna.
   This powerfully narcotic, plant grows in hedges, along
 old walls, and  around old buildings.  Its blossoms appear
 in July and August, and  its fruit is ripe in  September.
 when, like the whole plant, it is  black  and forbidding in
 its appearance.  This plant is powerfully discutient;  good
 in ointments and poultices.

           65.  DILL.—Anethum Gravcolens.
  This plant is so  commonly cultivated in  gardens for
 the pleasant flavor of its seed  that a description  is unne-
 cessary.  It possesses carminative properties.  See clara 7.

      66.  DWARF ELDER.—Sambucus Ebulus.
  This grows on hemlock timbered land.  A single stalk
 from  each  root, which is  thickly set with short thorns or
pricklos near the  ground, rises from eighteen to thirty
inches in hight, and  has many branches which terminato
 in a cluster of blossoms in  July and August; its berries
are ripe in September.   The root, which  possesses power-
 ful  detergent and diuretic  properties, is much  the best
used green.   See classes 9 and 11.    , 
24
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
           67.  ERMA OR FOREST PINK.
  This is an overgreen, found on  chestnut, oak and pine
timbered land of a gravelly soil.   The  leaves put forth
from  a woody vine of a  brown or  reddish cast,  which
attaches itself  to the  ground  as it extends a. foot or more
in length;  are of different forms, generally oval,  about
two inches  in  length,  a little rough, of  a reddish  green
'■olor.   The whole plant  has a furzy appearance.  The
blossoms appear  in April, from one to six or more at the
end of the stalk and its branches, are small, consist  of five
leaves, and  are white tinged with red ;  if not shaded, are
quite red, and  are very fragrant.   The whole  plant pos-
sesses  diuretic  properties  of great value.  It is aiso ne-
phritic and  moderately astringent.   See  classes 11 and
19.   It is also nervine.
        OS. FENNEL.—And/aim Fteniculum.
  This  garden plant is much esteemed for the aromatic
properties which the whole  plant  possesses.   The  seeds
are admired by all  for the richness of their flavor, espe-
cially while green.   These possess carminative properties.
See class 7.
  69. FEVERFEW.—Matricaria Vulgaris.—feathek-
                         pew.
   This is a  common garden  plant one foot  or more in
 hight,  thickly set with  pinnated  leaves of a  light green
 color.  The  brandies  terminate  in  blossoms some  like
 those of chamomile, but smaller.  This  herb possesses
 carminative, emmenagogue and vermifuge properties.  Soe
 classes 7, 13 and 2G.

          70.  FIR TREE.—Pinus Balsamea.
   This beautiful  evergreen tree  generally grows in or
 near swamps; but is cultivated as a shade tree on alir.ost
t every variety of soil.  The justly celebrated  Balsam  of
 Fir is obtained from blisters in the bark of this tree.   An
 essential  oil  is obtained from  the boughs and  bark of  the 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
25
tree,  which possesses  anodyne, diuretic  and  laxative
properties.  See balsams and essential oils.

       71. F1REWEED.—Erigeron Canadense.
  This grows on heavily timbered li.nd  newly cleared,
and generally accompanies the first crop very plentifully.
it rises from four to eight feet in hight, and has a strong
and  rather unpleasant   scent.    Another plant,  called
fieabane, colt  tail,  cow tail,  pride-weed, &c, very much
resembling this  in scent and medical  properties,  grows
in old  fields.  The leaves stript  from either before their
branches  appear,  carefully dried in  the shade,  and the
essential oil possesses valuable  styptic  properties.  See
claoS 'I'd arid essential oils.
                  72. FLAXSEED.
  This is a well  known seed  from which painters' oil is
expressed.   When slightly scorched, ground, and  mixed
with honey, it forms an invaluable demulcent for a cwiigh.
It I* also good in  poultices.
        73.  FOXGLOVE.—Digitalis Purpurea.
  This plant is a native of Europe,  but is cultivated1 in
America.   It is a powerful diuretic in dropsy, (see Dropsy)
and has a controlling influence over arterial action.  £c«i
recipe.
      74. GAi\ 1 ROGE.—rSlalagmUis Cambogioidns.
   This gum  resin  is the inspissaled juice obtained by
incisions in the  bark of a tree growing spontaneously en
the peninsula of Cambodia, in Ceylon, and in the kingdom
of Siani.   It is of a  bright yellow color, and nearly tastc^
less.  It is a powerful cathartic, for which it should always
be combined with other articles.  See recipes.   The. dust,
in pulverizing, should  ho avoided  as much as possible, a:--
u severely afflicts the he::d. 
26
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
            75.  GARDEN CELANDINE.
   This plant  grows in  gardens, door yards, &c.; has a
tender stalk, and light  green  leaves, from which, when
broken, a yellow juice exudes.   This herb possesses anti-
bilious and detergent properties.  See classes 3 and 9.

                    76. GARLIC.
   This well known garden plant has a perennial  bulbous
root, and iong slim leaves.  A smooth slim stem rises one
foot or more in hight, bearing on its top a cluster of seeds
like those of the top onion.  The roots are much esteemed
for draughts,  the juice of which is a valuable vermifuge.
See class 26 and draughts.

    77.  GENTIAN.—Gentiana Lulca Americana.
   This grows on intervales, undisturbed  places in field*,
by the way-side, &c, where the ground is very rich and
the soil  loose.  A  number of stalks rise  annually  in a
rluster to the hight of two or three feet, bearing leaves in
opposite  pairs all  the way  up.  From three to twelve
oblong berries, which become  yellow, surround the stalk
above each pair of the leaves.   The roots  branch out in
every direction from the stalks, are often  the size of the
finger or larger near the stalks, and taper gradually a foot
or more to a slim point.   The bark of the root is the only
part used, and when green is quite  thick and tender.   It
[Kwsesses anti-bilious, laxative, tonic and vermifuge prop-
erties.   See classes 3, 17, 25 and 26.
         78.  GINGER.—Zingiber Officinale.
  This shrub grows spontaneously in the East Indies, and
is  extensively cultivated in the West Indies.  The  root
possesses carminative, diaphoretic, stimulating and sudorific
properties.   See classes 7, 10, 21 and 24.
79. GINGIS.—Asarabacca,—colt's foot snare boot.
   This grows on beach and maple land, and among hem-
feck timber, where the land is rich, loose and  moist, and 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
27
sometimes  remains on undisturbed  places  in fields after
the land is cleared.   The leaves are supported on slender
foot stalks  four or five inches in length, and  are in  tha
form of a colt's track, except being  broader.  A ball con-
taining the seeds, half an inch or a little more in diameter,
puts-out at the end of the root,  from between the foot
stalks.   The root is about  the size  of a goose quill, often
a number of  inches in length, is aromatic, and  po.ssessea
emmenagogue, errhine and stimulating properties.  S<m»
classes 13,  15 and 21.
       80. GINSENG.— Panax Quinquefolium.
  This grows on moist, rich, heavy timbered land on th<j
side of mountains, &c, and at a little distance very much
resembles sarsaparilla.  About one  foot from the ground
the stalk is divided into three branches, from the center of
which a slim smooth  stem puts forth a number of inches
in hight, terminating  in an umbel of blossoms, succeeded
by the seeds, which  become red.   The root is carrot-
shaped,  frequently of  two or more equal divisions, and
two or three inches long.  It is a pleasant  bitter, and
possesses carminative, nervine and tonic  properties.  Se«
classes 7, 20  and 25.
    81. GOLDEN SEAL.—Hydrastis Canadensis.
  This grows on moist timbered land, to the hight of from
eight  to twedve inches.  The  stalk is smooth, purple at
the bottom, but changes to green near the top, and some-
times  divides into two  branches two or  three inches  in
length, with a single leaf on each, which generally termi-
nates  in five points.   One of the branches is sometimes
continued   about  three fourths of  an  inch  above the
leaf, hearing on its top a berry containing the seeds, which
l>ecomes red ; the leaves are  finely cut  about the  edge.
The root is irregularly shaped, of a bright yellow; hau
many fibers, and is intensely bitter.   It possesses antacid.
anti-bilious,  laxative, stimulating and  tonic  properties.
ti<*o classes 2, 3, 17, 22 and 85. 
28
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
     82. GOLDEN THREAD.—Coptis Trifolia.
  This  small evergreen grows on elevated spots, in cold
swampy places ;  has a three-lobed leaf, of a glossy appear-
ance, at the top of a smooth upright foot stalk two or three
inches  in length.   The root is  small,,  thread-like, of a
bright yellow  color, very  bitter, and is often used.for
canker.   It possesses detergent and tonic properties.   See
classes 9 and 25.
    63. GREEN  WHEAT.—Trilicum Hibernum.
  The juice or a strong infusion of the leaves of green
wheat, is highly recommended as an emmenagogue.   Seo
class 13.
        84. GUAIAC.—Guaiacum.'—gum guac
  This gum resin is obtained by heat from Lignum Vita,
(Guaiacum Lignum,) a tree of  middling size, a native of
the West Indies.  This  gum is  of a  dark color,  easily
pulverized, and a powerful stimulant.  See recipes.  Tho
wood of this tree possesses powerful detergent properties.
See class 9.
    85. HARD ROOT.—Bnva Melessa.—os. balm.
  This grows on dry land of almost every variety of soil;
liris a smooth stalk one or two feet in hight,  the top of
which  is a tui't  of  ashy white  blossoms.  The leaves are
in opposite pairs on the stalk and  branches, rather broad,
and  pnle  green.   The root if about the size'and in tho
form of a bumblebee's nest, as hard as white oak timber,
and  possesses diuretic, lithontriptic  and  tonic  properties.
See classes 11,  18  and 25.
   ^ 80. HEMLOCK TREE.—Finns Canadensis.
  This is a common  evergreen forest tree, in cold frostv
rlimates.  The leaves are very short and small, of a c\.ep
green color.  The boughs are highly and justly esteemed
lor their anodyne and sudorific properties, and for foment-
ing.   The  bark is ;n astringent,  end an essential oil of 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
29
great value is  made  from the boughs.  See classes 1, 6
and 24, essential oils and fomenting applications.

               87. HICKORY TREE.
  The sap of the green timber of this well known tree is
of great value in ear-ache.   This can be obtained at any
time of the year by putting one end of  a green stick into
the fire, when  tho  sap can be collected at  the other end.
A weak lye of the ashes is good in cases of dyspepsia.

  88.  HIGH CRANBERRY.—Virburnum  Oxyconus.
  This shrub grows on low rich land, to the hight of eight
or ten feet.   It has a  light colored  bark,  and slender
branches, which terminate in pendulous clusters of berries.
These  become red, contain o«e flat seed, and  a juicy pulp
of a plensant  acid  flavor, grateful as a  cooling beverage.
The bark of  the  root possesses  anti-spasmodic, nerviivo
and  tunic properties.  See classes 5, 6, 20 and 25.

      89.  HOAR HOUND.—MaruUum Vulgate.
  So called from its hoary appearance, grows by the way-
side  and other waste places, and  is so  commonly known
as to render a  description unnecessary.  It possesses lax-
ative properties, is a powerful expectorant, and when used
with bonesot, is a valuable  remedy in all affections of the
lungs.   See recipe.

     90. HOG'S GALL, and marrow of the jaw.
  Aro  invaluable external applications.   See recipe*.

           91. HOPS.—Hamulus Lupulvs.
  These are generally known,  as they are used  more or
less in  every family,  in making  yeast,  beer, &c.   They
lessees anodyne, anti-bilious and vermifuge properties,
and are invaluable to foment with.  See classes 1.  3 and
26,  and fomenting applications. 
30
MEDICAL botanist.
    92.  HORSERADISH.—Cochlearia Armoracia.
  The root of this well known plant is admired by many,
grated and mixed with vinegar, to be used with  meals to
quicken the appetite.   The  root is stimulating, and  the
leaves epispastic.  See classes  14 and 21.  Steeped  in
cider, it is said to be good in St. Vitus's dance.

 93.  HOUSE LEEK.—Scmpervivum Tectorum.—nsM
                   AND CHICKENS.
  This  is a house plant, which  multiplies by numerous
branches from the root, forming independent plants.  The
leaves are short, thick  and watery.  A cooling ointment
at made from the leaves.  See ointments.
         94. HYSSOP.—Uyssopus Officinalis.
  This is a perennial garden plant, much esteemed for its
carminative, expectorating and sudorific properties.  See
classes 7, 16 and 24.
    95. INDIAN HEMP.—Apocynum Cannabinum.
  This grows on  low wet places; has a stalk three  or
four feet in hight, covered with a thick  strong coat like
that of hemp; leaves pale green, and  grow in opposite
pairs ; blossoms  pale red, and at a little distance conside-
rably resemble those of queen  of the meadow.   These aro
succeeded by pods about the same length, but smaller than
those of the common  milkweed.  The root  consists  of
long white fibres,  is the  only part used, and possesses
diuretic,  laxative, tonic and  vermifuge  properties.  See
classes 11, 17 and 25.
06. INDIAN PHYSIC—Apocynum Androsaemifolium.
                WANDERING MILKWEED.
  This  grows on rich loose land without regard to soil,
and is frequently found in beds where it occupies the whole
ground ; has a smooth purplish stalk from two to five feet
in hight;  is divided into a number of branches, which
terminate in blossoms resembling those of buckwheat, and 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               "1
these are  succeeded  by pods about four inches in length,
quite slim, and growing in pairs.   The bark of the root
only is used.   The root is long  and slim,  has a woody
pith, is dark colored, and  possesses anti-bilious,  diuretic,
emetic and  errhine  properties.  See classes  3, 11, 12
and  15.
97. IRON WOOD.—Caspinus Americana.—lever woom
  The heart of this common, small, well  known forest
tree, is a valuable detergent and tonic.   See classes 9
and 25.
              98. JACOB'S  LADDER.
  This  plant  grows on  rich  soils, in  bushy places.  A
single smooth vine-like stalk, four or five feet and some-
times more  in hight, branches off in various directions,
and attaches itself to shrubbery, &c, near by.  The root
is irregular, contorted, branched, long and woody, and has
many circular depressions on its sides, resembling those
on Solomon seal.  This is said to  possess strong diuretic
and lithrontripic properties.  See classes 11 and 18.

          99.  JALAP.—Convolvulus Jalapa.
  This is imported to us from Mexico.   It possesses valu-
able cathartic properties.   See class 8.

        100. JUNIPER.—Juniperus Communis.
  This  shrub grows on the high banks of rivers in many
places.   The berries are much  used as a diuretic, and yield
a valuable  essential oil.  See class 11 and essential oils.
                 101.  KNOT-GRASS.
  This is a pale green plant,  and  grows in door-yards
and  by the way side where the ground is made  hard by
being  occasionally  trampled.   It has  many branches
which  spread  on  the  ground,  so that a  thrifty  plant
will  sometimes reach one  foot  or moro each way  from
the center.  The leaves are short and small.   The whola 
32
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
plant possesses diuretic, nephritic and nervine properties.
See classes 11, 19 and 20.
   102. LADY SLIPPER.—Cypripedium Pubescens.
   There is a family of plants called  by this  name which
resemble each other in their blossoms and medical quali-
ties.  The blossoms of one kind  are  red,  another red and
white, another white, and another yellow.  That which
bears the red blossom is found on high land and in swamps,
and  has but two leaves, which grow  close to the ground.
The red  and white  grows only in swamps ; and, like the
yellow, which grows both in swamps and on dry land, has
leaves all  the way up the  stalk,  which in appearance
resemble those of the white hellebore, except being much
smaller.   The stalks  are from one to two feet  in hight.
The blojeoms are in the form of a small oblong sack, with
an ontrance  into it  near where it joins with the stem.
The main root is slim, and is surrounded by a great num-
ber of fibers matted together, a little  yellow,  and crooked
like  hard  twisted twine.   These are  the  only part used,
and  possess nervine and tonic properties.   See classes 20
and 25.
         103. LAUREL.—Kalmia Latifolia.
  This  evergreen shrub grows  in  swamp3 and on cold
upland,  in  a cold climate.  The body  of the. shrub is
crooked and irregular,  six or eight feet  in  hight;  has
beautiful small blossoms, and thick narrow leaves lour or
five inches long,  which possess strong errhine properties,
of great value in catarrhal affections.  See class 15.
  Sheep, if  permitted,  are  apt  to eat the leaves  in the
spring of the year; and when  they do, it is generally
their last meal.
           104. LEMON.—Citrus Medica.
  This  fruit  is imported to us from warm climates, and
contains an acid juice, which, when properly diluted and
sweetened with loaf sugar,  is a great luxury as  a cooling 
MECICAL BOTANIST.
33
leverage  in fevers,  or  for  the  thirsty traveler  in hot
weather.   A valuable essential oil is  made from the rind
of the fruit—good to create an appetite.   See Conserves
and essential oils.
       105. LIQUORICE.—Glycyrrhiza Glabra.
   This is a perennial  plant, a native of the South of Eu-
rope ;  but is cultivated  in  England for medical purposes,
and sold in this country  by all druggists.  An extract is
prepared from the root called liquorice ball, which posses-
ses the same medical properties and is more convenient for
medical  purposes than the root.   It possesses  expectorant
and laxative properties.  See recipes.

106.   LION'S  FOOT  MILKWEED.— Indian  name,
                      Dicshonit.
   This  plant grows  on sandy hills and  by  the side of
streams, from one to three feet in hight;  leaves large
near the ground, but smaller near the top of the stalk, and
are  broad at the  base with points projecting back toward
the stalk.  The root in  form and  isize resembles that of
ginseng, is the only part used, and  possesses  anti-bil-
ious, detergent, nervine  and tonic properties.   It is a val-
uable remedy, boiled in milk and water, for dysentery.

107. LOBELIA.—Lobelia  Inflata.—emetic weed—In-
                    dian  tobacco.
   This is a biennial plant, and grows on every variety of
soil except in swamps.   It rises  six inches, and in a loose
rich soil, often to two  feet  in hight.  The stalk is irreg-
ular, branched and furzy  ; leaves singly, at a little distance
apart, furzy on the under side, and  the  edge appears as if
small  points projected from it  all the  way round.  The
blossom  consists  of five small pale blue leaves, two of
which  turn up and  three  down, and at the base a green
pod increases in size as the blossom  decays.  These read-
ily yield to pressure, and contain a great number of mi-
nute seeds.  When chewed, every part  of this plant com-
     vol. i.              3 
34               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
municates  a sense of  pungency, and  not unfrequently    •
produces vomiting, attended with  great   prostration  of
physical energy.  The leaves, pods and seeds are used, and
possess antacid, detergent, diuretic, emetic, errhine, expec-
torant, nephritic and sudorific properties.   See classes 2,
9, 11, 12, 15, 16 and 19.
108.  LOVAGE.—Ligusticum  Levisticum*—smellage-
  This is a perennial plant, so common in gardens, yards,
&c, that a description is  unnecessary.   The seeds and
roots possess carminative properties.   See class 7.

    109.  LOW  MALLOWS.—Malva  Rotundifolia.
  This is an evergreen, hard to subdue in gardens, door-
yards,  &c.   Boiled in milk and water  it is useful as a
constant  drink in bowel complaints.   It  is also  used  in
decoction as a wash for sores.
       110.  MAGNESIA.—Magnesia;, Carbonas.
  The carbonate of magnesia is a very  light, inodorous,
white powder, nearly insoluble in water, and is prepared
from  the  sulphate  of magnesia.   In the New England
States it is prepared from the bitterns of the salt works.—
It possesses antacid and laxative properties.  See classes
2 and 17.
  111. MANDRAKE.—Podophyllum  Peltatum.—ww
                       APPLE.
  This plant is common, and in some places abundant on
beach and maple land, in the middle states at least.  Early
in the spring a smooth green stalk rises one foot  or more,
which carries up in its growth the only leaf or leaves it
bears.  Some of the  stalks have but a single leaf, while
others are divided into two branches with a large spreading
leaf on each ; and  at the division a single white blossom
is supported on a short foot stalk, succeeded by an oblong
apple which  becomes yellow, of an  agreeable scent, and
is eaten by many as a luxury.   The root is frequently a 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
35
number of feet in length, about the size of a pipe stem—
has a number of fibres  at  each joint,  and is  otherwise
smooth.  The root is the only part used, and possesses an-
ti-bilious, anti-spasmcdic, cathartic, detergent, diaphoretic,
expectorant and styptic properties.  See classes 3, 5,8, 9,
10, 16 and 23.
        112. MAPLE LEAF ALUM ROOT.
  This plant grows on rich moist land, in woods, new pas-
tures and meadows.  The  leaves are at  the top of the
foot  stalks  from six to  twelve  inches in hight, and in
form resembling the maple  leaf.  The root is from six to
twelve  inches in length, full of sharp protuberances, and
possesses powerful astringent and styptic properties.   See
classes 6 and 23.
            113. MAPLE LUNGWORT.
  This  grows  in  thin substances, forming dark colored
spots on the body of soft maple trees, and somewhat re-
sembles the lobes of the human lungs.  It possesses expec-
torant properties.   See recipe.

      114. MARIGOLD.—Calendula  Officinalis.
  This is a common annual garden or posy bed plant, and
has a large yellow blossom, the leaves of which possess,
in a mild degree, antacid, anti-bilious and nervine proper-
ties.  See classes 2, 3 and 20.

  115. MARSH ROSEMARY.—Statice Caroliniana.
  This  grows only near the ocean on  salt marshes ;  is
well known where it grows, and is kept for sale by many
of the botanic physicians throughout the country.   It is a
valuable astringent, and I have found it to possess great
efficacy in many cases of sore mouth.  See class 6.

    116. M ASTER WORT.— Heracleum Lanatum.
  This is occasionally found on rich intervales, and is cul-
tivated in gardens, yards, &c.; has a large hollow stalk 
36               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
six or eight feet in hight, which divides into a number of
branches.   The leaves  near the  ground are large, but
smaller on the stalk and branches.  The branches termi-
nate in large flat umbels of  white blossoms which are suc-
ceeded by seeds similar to those of the garden parsnip, yet
larger.  The roots and seeds have an agreeable aromatic
scent, and possess carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue
and nervine properties.  See classes 7,10, 13 and 20.

        117. MAYWEED.—Anthemis   Cotula.
   This grows by the wayside, in gardens,  fields and yards,
and  is exceedingly hard to  subdue.   It has leaves and
blossoms resembling those of the chamomile, and possesses
epispastic, stimulating and sudorific properties.   See class-
es 14, 21 and 24.
118. MEADOW CABBAGE.— Modes  Fcetida.sKVKK
                      CABBAGE.
  This grows on rich wet land, in springy places, low
meadows and in swamps;  has a number of large pale
green leaves early in the spring, and a dark colored ball
containing seeds which comes to matuiity in July, when
the leaves disappear.   The whole plant nas a strong scent,
resembling that of the skunk.  The main root, after being
separated from the large wrinkly fibers and all impurities,
and the seeds from the ball, are the parts  used, and possess
anodyne, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, nervine and sudorific
properties.   See classes 1, 5,  16, 20 and 24.   The leaves
are valuable for draughts.

  119. MILKWEED.—Asclepias Syriaca.—silk grass.
  This plant has a stalk  partly square, which  rises from
two to four feet in hight;  leaves in opposite pairs, oval and
pale green.   The blossoms are at the top of the stalk, suc-
ceeded by large pods enclosing a silky down.  The seeds
considerably  resemble those of the garden parsnip.  The
roots are long  and white, of the  size of the finger, and 
medical botanist.
37
possess diuretic and tonic  properties.  See classes 11 and
25.
     120.  MOTHERWORT.—Leonurus  Cardiaca.
  This grows on unoccupied places around buildings where
the land is rich and loose ;  has a square stalk, leaves in
opposite pairs, and a bur composed of seed vessels above
each of  the leaves, which nearly and sometimes quite sur-
rounds the stalk.   The roots consist of a great number of
small fibers  which possess  anodyne,  diuretic, emmena-
gogue and nervine properties.   See classes 1,  11, 13 and
20.
      121.  MOUNTAIN  ASH.—Motis Umbellata.
  This is a small tree and grows in cold mountainous dis-
tricts ; sometimes in swamps and by the side of lakes.—
By some it is cultivated in  door yards for the beauty of its
pendulous clusters of berries which become red and remain
all winter.   The leaves resemble those of the locust tree.
The bark possesses antacid, anti-bilious, detergent, diapho-
retic and tonic properties.   See classes 2, 3, 9, 10 and 25.

           122.  MOUNTAIN  MARIGOLD.
  This  grows on dry snndy  ridges,  has a purplish  stalk
from eighteen inches to two  feet in hight, rough leaves
about four inches in length in opposite pairs, and usually
a small blossom, in appearance like those of the garden.
marigold at the top of the stalk.  The leaves  possess  styp-
tic properties.   See class 23.

123. MOUNTAIN FLAX.—Polygala Senega.— seneca
                     SNAKE ROOT.
  This  grows on dry ridges of land and hill  sides, among
chestnut and oak timber.   A number of stalks rise annu-
ally from the root to the hight of eight or ten inches, ter-
minating in a spike of  white blossoms,  thickly set, about
an inch  in length.  The stalk and the leaf resemble  those
of the common flax when it is small.  The root is branch- 
38
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
ing, woody and crooked, and when chewed the pleasant
flavor of- wintergreen is first  experienced, but  soon chan-
ges to an unpleasant pungency.   It possesses cathartic,
diuretic, expectorant and sudorific properties.   See class*
es 8, 11, 16 and 24.

        124. MULLEN.—Verbascum Thapsus.
  This  biennial plant  grows by the way side,  in pastures
and old  fields ; has a straight stalk six or eight feet in hight,
the upper part of which is surrounded by small  bell shaped
blossoms, succeeded by shells containing the seeds.  The
leaves are large,  long  and furzy on the upper  side.  The
blossoms, leaves and young plants are useful  as  medical
agents.   See classes 8, 17 and draughts.

          125. MUSTARD.—Sinapis Nigra.
  Common  mustard seed possesses epispastic and stimula-
ting  properties.   See classes 14 and 21.   White  mustard
seed  (Sinapis  Alba)  in addition, possesses antacid and lax-
ative  properties.  See  classes 2 and 17.

               126.  MYRRH.—Myrrha.
  This  gum resin is an article of commerce, and is import-
ed to us  from Abyssinia,  Arabia, India and  Turkey.—
Good myrrh has a light brown  color,  and is somewhat
transparent.   It is the inspissated juice which exudes spon-
taneously from a small  tree, and  collects into masses on
the bark ; or,  it sometimes falls to the ground and becomes
mixed with dust.   Myrrh has long been used as a medical
agent.  It is powerfully  anti-septic, and  a mild emmena-
gogue,  stimulant  and  tonic; useful in  a number of tho
compounds.

                127. NANNY BUSH.
   This small tree or  shrub  grows in wettish land of  a
rich soil, from ten  to  twenty feet in hight, considerably
resembling box-wood in the roughness and color of its bark.
The  fruit, when  ripe, is black, of a sweetish taste,  and 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.                39
hangs  in  pendulous clusters from  the end of the limbs,
about the size  of a  watermelon seed, though more plump
and full.  The bark of the root is the part used, and pos-
sesses  anti-septic, astringent and tonic  properties, and is
valuable as a wash for sores.  See classes 4, 6 and 25, and
washes.
           128.  NETTLES.—Vrlica Dioica.
   This  plant  somewhat  resembles the ox balm or hard
 root, except that the leaves are narrower and of a deeper
 green  color ; and, if there should be any difficulty in de-
 ciding between the two, a brush  on the bare skin will at
 once decide the question.  The pulverized root is a good
 styptic snuff;  or, it may be prepared in sirup for  internal
 bleeding.

    129.  NONE SO PRETTY, OR INDIAN PINK.
   This plant  flourishes most abundantly on hemlock tim-
 bered land, newly cleared, and sometimes grows on undis-
 turbed places in  old fields.   It grows from three to six feet
 in hight, has many branches and  long slender leaves which
 are discontinued toward the top, and long, trumpet shaped,
 pink colored blossoms, succeeded by long slim pods, encir-
 cle the ends of  the branches.  The root is wandering, has
 a  woody pith, and  a thick, brittle  outside or bark, which
 possesses anti-septic properties, and is highly recommend-
 ed in cases of dysentery to be used either in sirup or infu-
 sion.   See class 4.  The leaves possess powerful styptic
 properties.   See class 23.

 130. OAK  OF JERUSALEM.—Chenopodium  Anthel-
                minticum.—wormseed.
   This plant grows on dry,  loomy soils, and rises from
one to  two  feet  in hight; has  many branches ; thick,  nar-
 row, deeply indented leaves, and small pale blue blossoms.
 It  has  a sweet aromatic scent, and to the touch is gummy
and  adhesive.    It  possesses  emmenagogue, expectorant, 
40
MEDICAL BQTANIST.
sudorific and vermifuge properties.  See  classes 13, 1©,
24 and 26.
            131. ONION.—Allium  Cepa.
  This well known garden vegetable will be found recom-
mended as medicine for several purposes in  this work.

    132. QRIGANUM OIL.—Origanum  Vulgare.
  This is  the essential oil of the origanum herb, and is
sold by druggists.   It is good in catarrhal  affections and
in liniments.
133. OVA OVA.—tIndian pipe—f*t root—convulsion
                        ROOT.
  This grows on moist, but not wet land ; has a dark color-
ed loose root, aboui the size of a chestnut bur, from which
one or more stalks rise in the latter part  of summer or fall
to the hight of eight to twelve inches.   The stalks are very
juicy ; have short thin husks at a little distance apart, in-
stead of leaves all the way up, and terminate in an oblong
ball which  turns over like a pipe bowl.   The roots, (and
the stalks in a mild degree,) possess anodyne, anti-spas-
modic, diaphoretic and nervine properties.  See classes 1,
5,10 and 20.
        134.  PARSLEY.—Apium Pelroselinum.
  This is a biennial garden plant; has a seed stalk like
caraway, and the leaves, near the ground, remain green
all winter.   The seeds possess carminative, and the roots
diuretic and nephritic properties.   See classes 7, 11 and 19.

     135.  PEACH  TREE.—Amygdalus  Persica.
  This  tree is well known, being extensively cultivated
for its delicious fruit.  The bark of the root and extract
of the  leaves  possess cathartic and vermifuge properties.
An infusion of the leaves possesses laxative, nephritic, styp-
tic, tonic and vermifuge properties, and the meats of the 
medical  botanist.
41
stone possess antacid and tonic properties.   See classes
2, 8, 17, 19, 23, 25 and 26.
    136. PENNYROYAL.—Hedeoma  Fulcgicides.
  This  aromatic  herb grows in old fields and unoccupied,
places, and is not  so common in  all sections of the country
as most of the spontaneous productions ; yet is abundant
in some sections, and is generally known, being much
esteemed for its carminative and sudorific  properties.   See
classes 7 and 24.
          137; PEONY.—Pacnia Officinalis.
  This is cultivated in gardens,  yards, &c, and  bears a
large red blossom of beautiful appearance.   The leaves of
the  blossom and the roots possess carminative and nervine
properties.   See classes 7 and 20.
       138. PEPPERMINT.—Mentha Piperita.
   This aromatic  plant is so common in ell parts of tho
country, either in  a cultivated  state for the  purpose of
manufacturing  the oil, or, growing spontaneously, that a
description is unnecessary.  The hfrb and the oil possess
anodyne,  carminative and  sudorific properties.    See
classes 1, 7 and 24, and essential oils.
 139.  PIE  PLANT.— Rheum  Americana.—American
                      rhubarb.
  Rhubarb, of which this is a species, is  a native of the
East  Indies, China  and  Tartarv,  and is cultivated  in
France, Russia and Turkey, in other countries of Europe,
and  in America.  This, when  of ten or  twelve  years'
growth, is said  to be equal to the best imported  rhubarb ;
><f which, that  from  Turkey is best.   This plant is culti-
vated mostly for  culinary purposes.   It has large leaves,
which  spring  from  the  root on  long juicy  foot stalks,
which, when properly prepared  in sauce or pie,  is a great
luxury.  The seed stalks rise  from  two  to four  feet  in 
42
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 hight, and  terminate  in a tuft of b'ossoms, succeeded  by
 seed vessels.   The roots soon expand into a large cluster,
 and possess astringent, cathartic and tonic properties; but
 they are used mostly with a view to their cathartic effect.
•See class 8 and recipes.

     140.  PILEWORT.—Artemesia Hemorrhoids
   This beautiful plant grows on alluvial soils, but is rarely
 to be found in any section of the country.  A square stalk
 rises from eight to  twelve feet  in hight, and, like the
 branches, terminates in gracefully waving plumes of light-
 ish colored blossoms, succeeded by husks containing trian-
 gular seeds which  appear in a circular head.   The leaves
 are largo,  in opposite pairs, on long foot stalks, in form
 some like  the maple leaf, and are accompanied by small
 branches.
   The only use to which this  plant has been applied is in
 the cure of the piles, for which  some consider it a specific.
 See  Piles,  injections and ointments.  There is another
 plant so nearly resembling this, that without careful obser-
 vation  may be mistaken for it.              Dr. D. H.
111.  PIPRISWAY.— Chimaphila Umbellata.—VRiyczn
                         PINE.
  This evergreen plant grows on  chestnut, oak and pine
thinly timbered land ;  in some  places  in  abundance.  It
rises six or eight inches from the ground, where a number
of thick deep green  leaves notched  about the edge surround
the stalk ; and, on some of the plants, a slim smooth stem
rises four or five' inches above the leaves, bearing on its
top an umbel of blossoms, succeeded by seed vessels like
flax bowls.   The root  is long, slender and white, and fre-
quently supports a  number  of  the plants.  The  wholo
plant possesses anodyne, detergent, diuretic, stimulating
and tonic properties.   See classes  9, 11, 22 and 25.

         142. PLANTAIN.—Plantago Major.
  There are two kinds of plantain common in door yards; 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
43
the smooth, which has pale green leaves and light red foot
stalks, and the rough, with  leaves of a deeper green color
and foot stalks of the same hue.   Both have seed stalks or
rods one  foot or more in hight, a  considerable length of
which is surrounded by blossoms succeeded by seed vessels.
The smooth is the kind used, and is said to be a powerful
antidote for poison.   See poultices, draughts and recipe.

    143. PLEURISY  ROOT.—Asflepias Tuberosa.
   This  grows in old fields, on oak land of a warm loomy
or sandy soil, and sometimes on thinly timbered oak open-
ings.   A  number of furzy stalks rise  annually from  tho
root to the hight of from one to two feet,  thickly set with
narrow  leaves,  furzy on the under side, standing singly all
the way up.  The stalks are divided into short branches,
which terminate in  bright yellow  blossoms in July  and
August, succeeded by pods resembling those of the common
milkweed, except being smaller.  The roots are large and
fleshy, extend deep, externally of a pale yellow, and inter-
nally nearly white.  They possess  anodyne, diaphoretic,
nervine and sudorific  properties.  See classes 1, 10, 20
and 24.
         144.  POPPY.—Pappaver Somniferum.
  This narcotic plant is a native of Asia, but is cultivated
in Europe  and America, and is so well  known that a de-
scription is  unnecessary.   Gum opium  is the inspissated
juice  obtained  from incisions in the capsules, which, if
cautiously used, may be  advantageously employed in many
cases of disease.   It is rarely necessary, however,  to
administer  it "in a quantity sufficient to produce its narcotic
effect; and if tho directions contained  in this work with
regard to its administration, be properly observed, no harm
will arise from its use, but often much good.   It possesses
anodyne, anti-spasmodie, astringent, diaphoretic, expecto-
rant,  nervine, stimulating and  sudorific properties.  See
recipes.  A sirup of the capsules  is superior to opium in
many cases, especially for children. 
41
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
   Although the  practice of opium eating is not carried to
the extent  in our country that it is in India, the following
may be a caution against its habitual use :
   "Horrors op  Opium Eating.—A writer in India who
has been a constant witness of the terrible effects of opium
eating, draws a most startling  picture of the horrible sen-
sations to which the victim of this practice subjects himself.
In two years from the time he commences its use he must
expect to die,  and a death most  horrible, which  it  makes
one shudder to think of.  After the haBit becomes con-
firmed,  the countenance presents an ashy paleness;  the
memory fails ; the gait totters ; mental arM moral courage
sinks;  and frightful  marasmus or  atrophy  reduces  the
victim to a ghastly spectre—a living skeleton.  There is
no  slavery of body or mind equal to  that of the opium
taker.   Once habituated to its doses as a fictitious stimu-
lant, everything will be endured  rather than the  privation
of it;  and  tho  unhappy victim endures all the conscious-
ness of  his own degraded state, while he is  ready to  sell
all he has in tho world—to part with family and  friends—
rather than surrender the  use of this  fatal  drug.  The
pleasurable sensation and imaginative ideas arising  at first,
soon pass away ;  they become fainter and fainter, and at
last give place to horrid  dreams ; appalling  pictures of
death, spectres of fearful visage haunt his mind; the light
of heaven  is converted into the gloom  of hell ; sleep flies
forever ; night succeeds day to he clothed in never-ending
horrors—incessant sickness—vomiting and total derange-
ment ol the digestive organs ensue, and death at last re-
lieves the victim of his sensual enjoyment.1'

   145.  PRICKLY ASH.—Xanthoxylum Fraxineum.
  This shrub grows onaich uncultivated ground, in bushy
places, &c.. generally in clusters, and from eight to twelve
feet in  hight.   The branches are set with  sharp thorns
like those of the bramble bush or rose, and  have clusters
of small berries scattered promiscuously over them, which,
when ripe, become red, and soon change to a dark brown, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
45
and  have an agreeable aromatic scent,  and at first  are
agreeable to the taste ; but  this soon  changes to severe
and lasting pungency.   The bark and seed vessels or rind
of the berry possess the same medical qualities ; yet the
powder made from the berries is nearly or quite twice as
strong as that of the bark, which should  be observed in
their use.  They possess anodyne, anti-bilious, expectora-
ting and  stimulating properties.   See  classes 3, 10, 16
and 22.
     146.  PUMPION.—VULGARLY CALLED PUNKIN.
   This is the production of a vine which frequently forms
a kind of under growth  in  corn fields, the seeds of  which
possess valuable diuretic properties.  See class 11.
   The seeds of the watermelon may be used for the same
purpose.   Either  may  be infused in boiling  water,  or
tinctured in gin.   For  either, they should be stripped of
their outside covering.

147.  PYRENA.—Indian name,  Nunungua.—consump-
     tion ROOT--LIFE  ROOT--SWAMP SNAKE ROOT.
   This is an evergreen  plant, which grows  by the side of
streams  and other wet places.   The  leaves grow  on
spreading  foot stalks  from two to eight inches  in length,
are notched about  the edge, broad at the base, and termi-
nate in an  obtuse  point.  A  seed  stalk rises one foot or
more in hight, with  narrow  leaves deeply indented set
singly all  the way up,  bearing on its top bright yellow
blossoms early in the  spring.   The root is about  the size
of a pipe stem, two or more  inches in length, externally
of a purplish green, inside purple, and has a spicy  taste.
The whole plant  possesses anodyne, anti-septic, diuretic,
emmenagogue,  expectorant, nephritic, nervine and  sudo-
rific properties.  See  classes 1, 4, 11, 13, 16, 19 and 20.

        148. PUSSY  WILLOW.—Salix Nigra.
  This kind of willow has short downy plumes called
pussies, which appear early in the spring along its branch- 
4*                MEDICAL BOTANIST.
es : and the shrub never grows to a very large size.   The
bark of the root is valuable in ointment and poultice.   The
twigs chewed are good for toothache.  See ointments and
poultices.
   149. QUEEN OF THE MEADOW.—Eupatorium
                     Purpureum.
   This  grows by the side of streams,  and in other wet
places, from three to six feet in hight, and has from three
to six long pointed leaves  in a whorl around the stalk, at
a little distance apart, all  the way up.   The blossoms are
at the extremities of short  branches at the top of the stalk,
and are pale red.   The root is composed of a mat of long
straight dark colored fibres, which possess diuretic, lithon-
triptic, nephritic, nervine and tonic properties.  See classes
11, 18, 19, 20 and 25.
      150.  RED CLOVER.— Trifolium Pratense.
   This is an important production on almost every farm,
and is too well known  to require description.   The roots
possess  antacid and detergent properties, and the blossoms
are valuable for salve.  See classes 2 and 9, and salves.

     151. RED  RASPBERRY.—Rubus Strigosus.
   This grows in bushy pastures, in hedges, and about the
edge of fields.   A perennial stalk rises  three or four feet
in hight, thickly set with small sharp prickles the whole
length, and is more erect than that of the black raspberry.
The leaves are pinnated, and put forth early in the spring.
The blossoms are white, ih  pendulous clusters near the
top of  the stalk,  succeeded by thimble shaped berries,
which, when  ripe, are pale red.  The leaves possess ano-
dyne, astringent, diuretic, nervine and sudorific properties,
of great value, and make a  superior beverage with  meals.
See classes 1, 6, 11, 20 and 24.
    152. ROSE WILLOW.— Cornus Sericea.
This tree, which is about the size of a small apple tree, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
47
grows  on the bank of streams, and in  upland meadows;
has a  greenish  colored  bark, and  is  red  within.   The
blossom, at a little distance, resembles the  white rose ;
whence the name.  It possesses astringent and tonic prop-
erties.   See washes.                       Dr. D.  H.
            153. RUE.—Ruta Graveolens.
  This is an intensely bitter perennial garden plant, gen-
erally known.   It possesses emmenagogue, epispastic and
vermifuge properties.  See classes 13, 14 and 26.

          154.  RUSH.—Equisetmn Hyemale.
  This  grows in cool, shady  places, in a sandy soil, one
foot  or  more  in hight ; is full of joints, but has neither
branch, leaf nor seed.   It is  sought after for its peculiar
usefulness in scouring.   It possesses diuretic and nephritic
properties.  See classes 11 and 19.

          155.  SAFFRON.—Crocus  Sativus.
   This  is a common annual garden plant, cultivated for
its blossoms, which are justly  considered of great value in
determing humors to the surface.   They possess antacid,
anti-bilious, diaphoretic, laxative and tonic properties in  a
mild degree, and are good to  allay  the irritation  of  the
stomach.  See classes 2, 3, 10, 17 and  20.
            156.  SAGE.—Salvia Officinalis.
  This is a perennial garden plant, much used for culina-
ry purposes ; has rough, light green leaves, of a  peculiar
aromatic scent, agreeable to the taste, and  possesses car-
minative, diaphoretic, stimulating, sudorific, tonic  and ver-
mifuge properties.   See classes 7, 10, 21, 24, 25 and 26.
  This vegetable possesses quite too powerful diaphoretic
properties to be used occasionally with meals, as  a bever-
age ;  as  it predisposes the system to obstructions by colds;
yet constant habit will probably render it harmless. 
48
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 157. SANICLE.—Sanicula Marylandica.—black knars
                          root.
   This  plant  grows on  oak timbered land, and alluvial
 soils in the forest, and on undisturbed places in fields.   It
 rises from  eighteen inches to three feet in hight;  leaves
 roundish, deeply serrated, of a dark green color, and most-
 ly on one side of the stalk.   The blossoms are white, ap-
 pear in June, and are succeeded by a small bur on the top
 of the stalk.  The roots consist of a number of small,
 black fibers, quite pungent and aromatic to the taste ; and,
 if chewed long, will render salt tasteless.   These possess
 anodyne, expectorant,  stimulating, sudorific and  tonic
 properties.   See recipes.

     158.  SARSAPARILLA.—Smilax Sarsaparilla.
   This grows on almost every variety  of soil, in  forests,
 in  hedges, on old  logs,  around stumps, &c.   A  smooth
 stalk rises annually, from a perennial root, to the hight of
 from twelve to eighteen inches, and is divided near the top
 into  three equal branches,  which bear  pale green leaves,
 finely serrated about the edge.  A small smooth seed stalk
 rises from the  root, eight or ten inches in hight, bearing
 on its top a cluster of berries.  The root is about the size
 of a goose  quill, and  sometimes  a number of yards in
 length.   It  possesses anti-bilious,  anti-septic,  detergent
•and  tonic properties.  See classes 3, 4, 9 and 25.

        159. SASSAFRAS.—Laurus Sassafras.           1
   This i3 a small forest tree, well known  on chestnut and
 oak  timbered land, as the bark of the root is much admired
 by most people for its agreeable taste ;  and by many phy-
 sicians, as a valuable detergent, and for its essential oil.
 See  class 9, and essential oils.   It should be cautiously
 used, as a free use of it may injure the blood.  It is good
■in poultices.  See  poultices.
        160.  SAVIN.—Juniperus Sabina.
This  evergreen shrub grows on dry sandy hills, from 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
49
two to four feet in hight.   It is mostly valued for its es-
sential oil.  See essential oils.
 161.  SCOKE.—Phytolacca Decandra.—garget root—
                        COAKUM.
   This grows on rich land which is neither wet nor very
 dry, especially on land newly cleared, but not cultivated,
 by the way side, and on  unoccupied places.  A large
 purple stalk, or stalks, rises annually from  the root, has
 large spreading branches,  long smooth pale green leaves,
 and long pendulous clusters of berries which become black
 late in the fall.  The roots are large, fleshy, and run deep
 into the ground.   These are good for bathing and draughts.
 and the berries for tincture and salve; the leaves also are
 good for draughts.   See bathing applications and draughts.

         162.  SCOTCH CAP.—THIMBLEBERRY.
   This grows on upland, in hedges, bushy places,  and b\
 the side of fences.   A perennial stalk of a pale red cast.
 rises  to the hight of four  or  five feet.   The leaves  are
 large, in form some like the maple leaf;  the blossoms are
also large and pale red, and at a little distance appear like
the wild rose.   The berry is broad  and thin; convex on
the upper side, and, when ripe, is also pale red, and of an
agreeable mild  acid flavor.   The leaves and roots possess
detergent, diuretic and nervine  properties.  See  classes
9,  11  and 20.
            163. SENNA.—Cassia Senna.
  This is  an annual plant, grows in Upper Egypt, is
brought to Alexandria in Egypt, from whence it is im-
ported.  Hence it is called Alexandria senna.   The Amer-
ican senna (Cassia Marilandica) is also an annual plant.
springing from a perennial  root, of from four to six fee;
in hight, bearing leaves and pods similar in appearance
to those of the  locust tree.  This is considered one third
weaker than that from Alexandria, and  all other kinds
inferior to it, although possessing the same medical prop-
     vol.  i.              4 
M)
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
erties.   This plant possesses valuable cathartic propertk■*,
but should be used in connection with other articles, which
will  prevent its griping effect.   That  from Alexandria
should be preferred.   See recipes.

        164.  SLIPPERY ELM.— Ulmus Fulva.-
  This is a forest tree,  and can easily be  known from'
uther trees of the same species, as the  inner bark of this
is  mucilaginous, and is  the part used.  It is a valuable
expectorant and laxative, and superior for a poultice, for
either of which it should be finely pulverized.  For inter-
nal use it may be  mixed with an equal quantity of loaf
sugar;  and for a drink in fevers, or for a cough, the dilu-
ted mucilage may be rendered quite palatable by  adding
the lemon or other conserve.  See classes 16 and 17.
    165. SMARTWEED.—Polygonum Punctatum.
  This invaluable herb grows by the way side, in yards
and other  places where the ground is  rich, on  almost
every farm  in this country ;  and is bo frequently used r.s
a sweating  remedy, that it is generally known.   It pos-
sesses anodyne, anti-septic,  diuretic, expectorant and sudo-
rific properties.  See classes  1, 4, 11 and 24.

  100.  SNAKE HEAD.—Chelone Glabra.—balmony.
  This grows by the side of sluggish rivulets and in other
wet places,  and rises from  one to three feet in hight.   It
ha-> long, slim, deep green  leaves in  opposite pairs ; and,
-j-. thetop of the stalk or its branches, there is a cluster of
long white  blossoms, which resemble a snake's head with
its mouth partly open.  The leaves have a nauseous bitter
taste, and possess anti-bilious,  detergent, stimulating, tonic
and vermifuge properties.   See classes 3,.9, 22,25 and 26.

   167. SOLOMON SEAL.—Convalaria Multiflora.  '
  There are two kinds of white Solomon seal, the large
and the small.  The large  kind  grows on rich intervales 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
51
to the length of six or seven feet,  inclining over like a
bow, with the top end toward the ground.   The top of the
small kind rarely exceeds two feet  in length.  They are
similar in appearance, and possess the same medical prop-
erties.   They have oval, ribbed, wrinkly leaves, and their
blossoms,  succeeded  by berries, are on the  under side of
the stalk.   The small kind grows upon ledges, rich moun-
tain soils,  around dilapidated sugar camps,  on unimproved
intervales, and sometimes in upland meadows of a rich
soil.  The root is white and  crooked, and  has a circular
depression like a seal where the old  stalk decayed.  It
possesses valuable  tonic properties,  useful in sirups, &c,
See class 25.
           168. •SORREL.—Rumex Acetosa.
  This is often quite troublesome in ploughed fields, often
requiring diligent attention with the  hoe to subdue .:.
The leaves are  of  an agreeable acid flavor,  and are
valuable  for poultice and salve.   See poultices and salves.-.

        169. SPEARMINT.—Mentha Virides.    •
  This is a common plant,  and is generally known.  It
frequently  grows  by the way side, and  on unoccupied
places  in fields.   It grows more erect than  peppermint,
but otherwise resembles  it considerably.   It  possesses
carminative,  diuretic  and vermifuge  properties.    See
classes 7, 11 and  26.
           170.  SPERMACETI.— Cetaceum.
  This is a- fatty substance obtained from the head of the
spermaceti  whale, after the oil has been removed.  " The
residum,  freed  from  impurities by washing  with water,
melting,  straining, expression through linen, and, lastly,
washing in a weak lye of potash, is the peculiar substance
known by  the name  of spermaceti."  It is usefully em-
ployed in affections of the lungs, and in the  preparation
of salves.   See recipes. 
52
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
         171.  SPIKENARD.—Aralia Racemosa.
   This  grows in bushy waste places, where the ground is
 rich and loose.  A stalk of a greenish brown color rises
 annually from two to five feet in hight; has large spread-
 ing branches and serrated leaves, handsomely proportioned
 to the size of the stalk.  Pendulous stems put  forth  at the
 division  of the branches from  three to six inches in length,
 surrounded by short stems, the snds of which are encircled
 with small berries in a round  form, which become purple,
 and of a sweetish, agreeable taste.  The root is long, bal-
 samic, and  has a woody pith, which must be removed
 while  green, as it should not be  used.  The rind  of the
 root possesses expectorant and tonic properties.   See class-
 es 16 and 25.
                        ————        •
  172.  SPOTTED PLANTAIN.—rattlesnake root.
   This grows  on  small  elevations, in beach  and  maple
 forests,  generally a number of the  plants together.   A
 number of evergreen leaves grow close to the ground, pale
 green on the  under side, and  of a deeper green on the
 upper.side, interspersed with light colored lines running in
 various  directions.  The root grows  on  the  top of the
 ground with fibers on the under side, and is exceedingly
 hard to dry.  This plant, therefore, should be used green.
 The whole plant is valuable to be used internally and ap-
 plied  externally in scrofulous affections.  Used in the
 same manner, it is said to be a specific for the  bite of the
 rattlesnake.  See class 9, and poultices.

            173.  SPRUCE.—Abies  Nigra.
   This is  an  evergreen  tree,  and grows in cold swamps
in many  parts  of the country, from which  an  invaluable
inspissated balsam (gum) is obtained,  useful in Asthma,
Consumption,  &c*  An essential oil  is made  from the
boughs, useful  in scrofulous affections.   These  possess  di-
uretic,  expectorant, and tonic  properties.   See  balsams
and essential oils. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
53
          174. SUMACH.—Rhus Glabrum.
  This is a common shrub in bushy places where the soil
is light, rich, sandy and warm ; and often grows in vacant
places in old fields.   It rises  from ten to twenty feet in
bight, and has spreading branches, which terminate in a
clump of red berries.   These are sometimes  infused in
cold water for a drink in fevers, as they possess consider-
able acidity.  The bark of the root possesses astringent
and detergent properties.  See classes 6 and 9.

   175.  SUMMER  SAVORY.—Satureja Hortensis.
  This is an annual garden  plant, of an aromatic scent,
and sharp, pungent taste, well Known for its value in culi-
nary purposes.   An essential oil is  made from this herb,
which retains all of  its medical properties in a concentra
ted  form.  It possesses carminative, stimulating and sudo-
rific properties.  See classes 7, 21 and 24.

     176. SWAMP SASSAFRAS.—green ozier.
  This grows  on  thinly timbered wet land,  near water,
on the  borders of streams, in ravines, in bushy places,
about fields, &c.  It does not usually exceed eight or ten
feet in hight; has a thick, flat top, oval leaves, which end
in a slim point, and turn red when full grown, and clusters
of white blossoms, which are  succeeded by small berries.
When young the bark is green, but it  gradually changes
to gray.   The  bark possesses  astringent,  detergent  and
tonic properties.  See classes 6, 9 and 25.

            177.  SWEET APPLETREE.
  The bark possesses  lithontriptic  and tonic properties.
See classes 18 and 25.
          178. SWEET  CICELY.—Myribes.
  This grows on rich upland, and on alluvial soils in for-
ests, and  on undisturbed  places in fields.   It  rarely ex-
ceeds two feet in hight, and  has a purple stalk.   It may
easily be known by the taste of the root, which very mucb 
54
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
resembles anise seed, and is a very good substitute for that
valuable carminative.   See class 7.
179. SWEET CLOVER.— Melilotus  Vulgaris.—y\\:u-
                        LOT.
  This plant is cultivated in gardens, yards, &c, for the
richness of its odor.  It frequently attains the hight of six
feet, has many branches, and small blossoms.  The green
plant is valuable for ointment.   See ointments.

130. SWEET ELDER.—SambucusCanadensis.—white
                       ELDER.
  This bush is too well kn%wn to require description.   Its
clusters of white blossoms are often gathered, and used as
a laxative for children.   The bark possesses cathartic and
diuretic properties.   The berries are  good in  conserve.
See classes 8, 11 and 17, and conserves.

   181. SWEET FERN.— Comptonia Asplenifolia.
  This small bush, which rarely attains three feet in hight,
grows in great abundance in some sections of the country,
on mountains, hills, and sandy plains;  has long, narrow
leaves, deeply indented, and on  its  branches a balsamic
bur, which, like the  leaves,  has an agreeable scent.   The
leaves  possess anti-bilious, astringent, detergent and  ner-
vine properties.   See classes 3, 6, 9  and 20.

      182. TAG ALDER.—Alnus Rotundifolia.
  This shrub grows in swamps, and wet places, and derives
its name from its pendulous tags, which are suspended from
the branches and remain during the winter season.  These,
infused in cider,  are useful  in  bilious complaints.   The
bark  is dark colored,  and possesses anti-bilious, astrin-
gent, detergent and tonic properties.  See classes 3, 6,
9 and 25.
         183. TAMARACK.—Tamarix.
This small tree grows  in cold swamps, has short, fine 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
55
j-caves,  some  like spruce, but is not an evergreen.  A
balsam  is contained in cavities in the timber, which, of
course,  are hard to find.   It may be obtained by ineis-
ions  in  the timber, or  by stripping the bark from the
body  of the  tree.   The inspissated  balsam (gum) may
also  be  found in masses on  the bark.  The bark  pos-
sesses anti-bilious properties, and  is powerfully detergent  ;
also diuretic and tonic.   The balsam  also possesses valu-
able properties.  See  classes  3,  9, 11 and 25.

         184. TANSY. — Tanacetum  Vulgar e.
  This   is a  well known herb,  cultivated and  used b\
almost every  family  in the country.   Ladies should re-
spect it  much, and foster  it with care.  It possesses an-
odyne, anti-bilious, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, tonic and
vermifuge properties.   See classes  3, 10, 13,  25 and
26.

               135. TARTARIC ACID.
  ''Cream of tartar  is the purified lees or  deposits of
vvino casks.   From cream of tartar the tartaric acid is
produced, by  mixing  the  former with chalk in fine pow-
der, and  throwing the mixture  into boiling  water, bj
which the cream of tartar, which is a  tartrate of potash,
is decomposed, and tartrate of lime is formed.  The tartrate
«>f lime is then washed, and decomposed by dilute sulphur-
ic acid,  which, combining with the lime, sets the  tartaric
acid at liberty, where it remains in solution.  This solution
being evaporated, the  tartaric acid  is  obtained in white
crystals."

     186.  THORN APPLE.—Datura Stramonium.
  This  is a narcotic, annual plant, and is perpetuated year
after year  by the  seeds being  scattered of a previous
year's growth.  It therefore grows wherever the seeds an;
scattered, on almost every variety of soil.  As most peo-
ple endeavor to subdue it, a great difficulty is often experi-
enced by those who use it, in obtaining a sufficient quatiti- 
MEDICAL  botanist.
ty.   The  plant  appears quite  inferior at first, but, as it
expands in its growth, spreading its branches and unfolding
its  large  and  numerous leaves, it assumes a more tolera-
ble  appearance.  At each division of the branches a  bios
som puts forth, on a short stem,  succeeded by  an oblong,
thorny ball, called the  apple, which contains a multitude
of black seeds.   The leaves  are  perforated with many
small holes,  and are  good  to smoke in asthma.   Tho
whole plant has a nauseous scent.   The leaves are also
srood in ointment.  See ointment.

         187.  THYME.—Thymus Serpillum.
  This is a  common evergreen garden plant, and consid-
erably resembles summer savory, in its taste and smell.
It possesses   carminative,  emmenagogue  afid sudorific
properties.   See classes 7, 13  and 24.
       188.  VINE  MAPLE.—yellow parilla.
   This grows in bushy places, on rich, moist land ;  has a
smooth, woody vine, often fifteen or twenty feet in length,
and leaves standing singly,  resembling  the maple lea:'.
though  not  so  deeply notched.   The root is  long, and
slender, of a bright yellow.   It is nervine and tonic.  See
classes 20 and 25.
                  189.  WA-AHOO.
  This  shrub  grows in bushy places, on rich intervales,
d\  the side of streams, and in'swamps.   It rises from six
to twelve feet in hight;  has  light colored bark, and is ex-
rensively known, as it is often sought as  a remedy for af-
fections  of the lungs.  It is  powerfully prostrating to the
nervous system, and, therefore, should never be used sepa-
rately for those inclining to  nervous debility either as a
 athartic or expectorant.  See compound sirup of Wa-ahoo.
See al»o classes 8 and 16.
    190. WATER CUP  ROOT.—eve's cup.
Thia grows in cold  swamps, where the ground is very 
MEDICAL  botanist.
57
wet, and thickly  covered  with swamp  moss, into  which
this plant is imbedded so as nearly to hide  it from view.
The leaves are oblong sacks, tapering downward to short
foot  stalks, which connect them  with  the  root.   Their
outer extremity  is formed into an opening  somewhat re-
sembling a sucker's mouth, which is always open, and up-
ward.   These grow in a whorl from the end of the root,
are eight or ten  inches  in leVigth, and often ten or twelve
in number.  From the centre of these, a smooth stalk rises
ten or twelve inches in hight, bearing on its top a beauti-
ful blossom  of very singular  appearance.   The root is of
a light red color, not so large  as the little finger, and some-
limes a number of inches in length, and  possesses nervine
and tonic properties.   See classes 20 and 25.

191. WATER  GREEN.—vulgarly  called  krocs'
                       SPITTLE.
   This is a green  substance,  found  in clear water in hot
weather.  It is good for inflammations,  either  fresh or in
salve and ointment.  See salve and ointments.
      192. WHITE ASU.—Fraxinus  Excelsior.
  The bark  of the root of this well  known, handsome
forest tree,  possesses anti-bilious, cathartic  and emeti •
properties.  See classes  3, 8 and 12.

    193.  WHITE  CEDAR.—Juuiprrus  Vcrgiana.
  This tree grows in swamps, in many parts of the coun-
try, and the difference  between this and the  red cedar is
well understood.  It is particularly valuable for  its essen-
tial  oil.  See essential oils.
      191.  WHITE DAISY.—Bcllis  Perennis.
  This plant grows in old fields, and by the way side; and
is  exceedingly hard  to subdue,  ft bears a large, white
blossom, six or eight inches from the ground, which pos-
sesses valuable tonic properties.  The  white  whorl  of 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
leaves at the edge of the blossom are much to be preferred
See class 25.

   195. WHITE IIELEBORE.— Veratram  Alhum.
  This grows on the same kind of land, and often side by
side, with the meadow cabbage.  It rises early  in  tho
spring  from  two to four feet in hight, has large wrinkly
leaves  all  the way up, and the blossoms appear on short
branches at the  top of the stalk.  The root in form and
libers resembles  the meadow cabbage, but is not generally
;is large.   This will  require  that the scent of the skunk
he observed  in the roots collected for  the meadow cabbage,
as the helebore is a  deadly poison.   It,  however, possesses
valuable errhine properties in catarrhal affections.  Set;
class 15, and ointments.

        1'.>:;.  WHITE OM\.— Quercas Alba.
  The  li'irk of  this king of the forest  possesses powerful
astringent and tonic properties.   See class 6, and  washes.

       197.  WHITE  PINE.—Pinvs  Palusfris.
  Th°  bark of  this stately forest tree possesses expecto-
rant properties, and this and the turpentine, diuretic, laxa-
tue, stimulating  nncl tonic properties  The turpentine is
irood in salve and strengthening plasters.   This tree also
yields  a balsam.   The inner  bark  of a  young growth
should  be preferred.  This is also good for poultices.  See
class 16, plaster, poultice and salve.

 W*. WHITE  POND LILY.—Xymphata  Odor at a Alba.
  This grows near the  edge of lakes, and ponds, in slug-
gish streams, sometimes in stagnant water, and in swamps,
in various parts  of the United States.   A  large blossom,
of beautiful whiteness,  and delicious fragrance, is accom-
 panied  by large leaves floating on  the tep of the water.
 These are connected with the root by  slim stems, some-
itimes fifteen or  twenty  feet in length.   The root is at the
bottom of the water, is rough and blackish, two or three 
                  MEDICAL BOTANHT.                59

inches in diameter, and frequently a number of feet in
length.
  The yellow pond lily  is similar to the white, except the
color of the blossom and root, which are of a deep yellow.
  Both possess astringent properties, and are valuable for
poultices.   See class 6, and poultices.

      199. WHITE  POPLAR.— Populus Alba.
  This resembles the black or common poplar, except in
the color of its bark, which is nearly white.   The bark
possesses tonic and vermifuge properties.   See classes 2.">
and 26.
  200. WHITE SNAKE ROOT.—Ageratoides Alba.—
                     POOL ROOT.
  This  plant grows in various parts of the country, on
dry upland, of a rich soil, as well as on that which is low
and moist, and sometimes on very wet land.   It rises from
two to four feet in hight, has a furrowed stalk, leaves and
branches in opposite pairs ; leaves on long foot stalks, nnd
about tho size of a large appletrec leaf; blossoms  white  i
and  numerous, and appear in  September.  Hence it is
sometimes called  September weed.  The root is compo-
sed of numerous  long,   fine, white fibers, which, wiien it
grows on dry ground, has  the appearance of being mil-
dewed, and is the only part used.  It possesses anodyne,
diuretic, stimulating and sudorific properties.  See classes
11, 21 and 24.
     201. WHITE  VERV1NE.— Verbena Alba.
  This  grows on rich upland, by the wayside, and unoc-
cupied  places, in gardens, or fields; usually rises  about
two feet in hight, and is divided into a number of spread-
ing branches, which terminate  in slim stems, surrounded
by  small, white  blossoms.   The root  is composed of a
great  number of small, white fibers, which possess anti-
bilious, diaphoretic,  and emmenagogue properties.  See
classes 3, 10 and 13. 
60                MEDICAL BOTANIST.
202. WHITEWOOD TREE.—Liriodendron Tulipifera.
   This is one of the handsomest forest trees our country
produces ; is often fifty or sixty feet in hight to the lowest
limbs, has a  thick, rough bark, large  leaves  with obtuse
points, and  an aromatic, tapering bud of long layers, in
form like the closed  pond lily  blossom, at the end of the
branches.  The bark of  the root is powerfully aromatic,
and  possesses anti-bilious,  carminative  and stimulating
properties, and is an invaluable tonic and vermifuge.  See
classes 3, 7, 22, 25 and 26.
 203.  WHORTLEBERR1 ES.— Vaccinium.—huckle-
                       berries.
   This deMcious fruit, the spontaneous production of many
a ridge, otherwise  barren, or nearly so, is very generally
known.   The berries and roots possess diuretic properties.
See class  11.   It is said by some, that the leaves of this
bush are equal to the Uva Ursi for the  same purposes.

       204. WILD CUCUMBER.—elaterium.
   This is  a native of the South of Europe ;  and is culti-
vated in Great Britain, where, however, it perishes in tho
winter.  The  substance, spontaneously deposited  by the
juice of the fruit, is the part used.   Elaterium is a power-
ful hydragogue cathartic,  and in  the full dose frequently
excites nausea  and vomiting.  It has  sometimes been at-
tended with deleterious effects, and it should  therefore be
used with  caution.   See recipe.

     205.  WILD  INDIGO.—Baptisia Tinctoria.
  This grows  on  oak plains, on dry, sandy  hills, and on
prairies at the  west.  It rises about two feet in hight, has
a  smooth, round stalk, of a  bluish, green  color ; many
branches  and  heart-shaped leaves, broadest  at the outer
end.   The blossoms, (I think,) are  yellow, succeeded by
pods.   The root is irregular,  large and woody, externally
of a dark  color, and internally yellow ; is used only ex-
ternally, and  is valuable  in  ointments, poultices, salves 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
f)l
and washes, and is powerfully anti-septic.  See ointments.
poultices, salves and washes.

       206. WILD LETTUCE.—canker root.
   Of this evergreen plant there are two kinds ; both grow
in upland  forests, thinly timbered.   The large kind has
two  or more leaves, which spring from the root to the
hight of three or four inches, and the leaves are frequent-
ly as large as a dollar.  The small kind has its leaves on
a stem five or six inches in hight, like wintergreen.  The
root of both is slender and white, sometimes a number of
feet  in length.   They  possess  anodyne and detergent
properties.  See class  9.   Some consider  its anodyne
properties far superior to opium.

      207.  WILD TURNIP.—Arum  Triphyllum.
   This grows on rich, moist land, in shady places, or un-
disturbed spots, in open fields.   It rises one foot or  more
in hight, has a smooth stalk, at the top of which there are
three leaves ; or, when  divided, there are three leaves on
each division, and, a blossom puts out on a short stem be-
tween  the  branches, which  is succeeded by  a terminal
head of red berries.   The root is in the form of an onion,
and  has a great number of white fibers at the top of the
root, near the stalk.  The  green root is very pungent,
which, with the  medical properties of the root, is  greatly
diminished by drying.  It possesses diaphoretic, expecto-
rant,  nervine, and vermifuge properties.  See classes 10.
16, 20 and 26.   Draggons'  teeth grow under the  turnip,
without leaf or braneh, are very acrid, and are used in a
preparation  for cancer.  See recipe.

208. WINTER CLOVER.—squaw  vine—one  berry.
   This slender evergreen  vine grows on dry upland, often
among  wintergreen, and  extends from  six to eighteen
inches in  length ; has small, nearly round leaves, in op-
posite pairs, and a berry growing singly on the vine, which
has the appearance of being  double, and  becomes red, 
02
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
The whole plant possesses anodyne and diuretic proper-
ties.   See class 11.
  •209. WINTERGREEN.—Gaullheria Procumbeus.
  This is not confined to any particular soil, but is most
abundant on oak and pine plains.  The young plants and
berries are much admired for their agreeable flavor.  This
plant possesses diuretic properties.   See classes 7 and  11.
The essential  oil retains  the virtues of the plant.  See
essential  oils.
   210.  WITCH HAZLE.—Hamamelis  Virginica.
  This shrub grows ten or fifteen feet in hight, in busiiy
places, both on dry  and wet soils, on poor as well as on
rich  land, and  generally  a number grow from the same
root.   Its blossoms continue in winter.  The bark is in-
terspersed with white spots, which frequently  encircle the
body and branches.   The leaves, and bark  of the root
possess astringent, and the leaves styptic properties.  The
bark of the  root is good to cleanse sores, and  for  canker.
See classes 6 and 23, and washes.

     211. WORMWOOD.—Artemisia Absinthium.
  This light green, and intensely bitter herb is so genera!
ly known that a description is unnecessary.   It is cultiva-
ted by many, and is often found growing by the way side,
and  on waste  places.   It possesses epispastic, stimulating
and vermifuge properties.   See classes 14, 21 and 26.

        212. YARROW.—Achillea Millefolium.
  This grows in pastures, and other places not disturbed
by plowing.  It has fine, slender  leaves, and a flat top of
white blossoms, about eighteen  inches in hight.  Thi-.
herb possesses stimulating, styptic and sudorific properties
See classes 21, 23 and 24.
    213.  YELLOW DOCK.—Rumex Cnspus.
This grows in  gardens  and  plowed fields where tho 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
GT
ground  is  very rich.   The seed stalk rises two or three
feet  in  hight.  The leaves are long and narrow, and are
much esteemed by many  for  culinary  purposes.  The
root  is carrot shaped,  of a yellow color,  and possesses
valuable detergent properties.   See  class 9.  It is also-
valuable in ointment, poultices  and washes, for which stf.
those divisions.
           RULES TO BE OBSERVED

                         IN

COLLECTING  AND CURING VEGETABLES FOE
              MEDICAL PURPOSES.
  Barks from the trunk or  roots of trees should  lie col-
lected in June or July, at a time when they easily separate
from  the  wood.   The bark from thrifty trees should bo
selected.  The outside bark- or ross should be removed bo-
i'ore drving.   Roots should  be gathered early  in the
spring, or after their tops have done growing in the fall ;
for, if gathered while growing,  they  will have but little
strength.   The  outside of  aromatic  roots,  especially.
should be  cleaned, if  possible,  without washing ; the
woodv pith, if anv, removed, and large roots cut into thin
slices' across their" length, spread out thin and dried with-
out delay.
  Herbs of every descriptiofl,  should be gathered before
their  blossoms all  disappear, as  their sttength fails alter
that time ; and, a great addition to the labor  is then ne-
cessary  in  removing dead  leaves,  <Vc   All improper^
substances should  be removed from every description  ot 
64
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
medicine, and  the drying  process  commenced as soon
as possible after it is collected.
   The  room  in  which  medicines  are dried should be
sufficiently tight to exclude damp air in damp weather,
and the temperature kept up to summer heat  until they
are thoroughly dry.  They must then be packed secure
from  the  air, light or dampness.
   No confidence can be  placed  in  the efficacy  of med-
icines, unless they  are  thus  carefully collected,  cured
and  secured  from contaminating influences;  and  then.
be judiciously administered.
                 PART  SECOND.

An ARRANGEMENT OF MEDICAL  PLANTS INTO CLASSES. IN
      ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR OPERATIVE VIRTUKS.
  Medicine, in a single or simple form, is often attended
with  great benefit, provided  that  a suitable  quantity bo
properly administered ; but, may otherwise be attended
with  serious  injury.

A TABLE OF DIRECTION?, WHICH SHOULD BE COMMITTED TO
                      'MEMORY.
  In  order to avoid a  repetition of words, and that, as
much as possible, may be expressed in  a small  compass,
the  following characters are adopted : The square  D rep-
resents  a table-spoonful, and the round O a tea-spoonful.
The letter I, shows  that the  medicine must be infused, or
steeped in boiling water, and the letter 1), that  a decoction
must be made by boiling  the water, at least, ten minutes
after the medicine is  added.   Sub,  shows that the medi-
cine must be  pulverized and  administered in substance; 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.                66
and  Ex, that the medicine is most convenient, or effica-
cious, when prepared in extract.   This is  made  by first
boiling tho medicine in water until the strength is out.
then 6train the decoction, and boil it gently, or simmer it
to the consistency  of thick  molasses.  Any  reasonable
quantity  may be used  with  safety, of  those medicines
which are directed  to be  used freely.   This shows  the
medicine  to  be harmless.     Medicines  for  D,  I, &c.
should be pounded, and sifted  through a meal sieve.
   From  half a  pint to a  pint of boiling  water  may be
used  for  infusions,  or decoctions, for each day, as shall
best  suit  the convenience   or inclination  of the  patient,
and be taken more or  less liberally, as the circumstances
of the case  may require, which  a little experience will
enable any one, dictated by reason, to do with safety  and
to the advantage of the distressed.
   The quantity  directed, is for those of mature age,  and
common  strength  of constitution.   Considerable judg-
ment, therefore, must be exercised, in increasing or dimin-
ishing the  quantity for different  constitutions,  and, for
children,  according  to their age, to a very minute portion
for an infant.
   As an example  of the quantity required,  I will here
state, that I have given the  emetic tincture, for instance,
when repeated doses, amounting to a □, or more, did not
produce so much effect upon tho system as a single drop of
the same preparation in other cases.   So great  a differ-
ence is not,  however, often experienced ;  yet, great care
must be taken  not  to  overact the constitutional ability.
Medicine, in a liquid form, should not stand in  any vessel,
except  of crockery or glass,  and no spoon should remain.
in it, except of pure silver.
   As but few have scales to weigh by grains, the quantity
is directed in spoonfuls,  and by comparing with other fa
miliar objects,  which will be found sufficiently accurate.
   When  a spoonful  is directed, it is intended that the spoon
shall be of common  size, and,  of powders, a little rounding
full.
     VOL. I.                   5 
66
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                    REMARKS.
  Being aware that a  judicious prescription may fail  of
benefit, the attention of the reader is requested, for a few
moments, upon the subject.   From the inability of man to
judge infallibly as to the nature of  a disease, or its reme-
dy, a wrong  prescription may be administered.   Again,
the medicine prescribed may be admirably adapted to the
disease,  but  requires the operation  of some other medi-
cine to precede it; and, therefore, would fail  of benefit.
And, yet. again, admitting the  prescription a judicious one
in every other respect, the  want of a sufficient quantity
may fail  to render nature that assistance it requires, while
the opposite extreme may be attended with  serious con-
sequences in  an operation,  beyond the powers  of nature
to sustain.
  These considerations naturally lead the reflecting mind
to the conclusion, that  the more simple and harmless the
means by  which  any given object can be effected, the
more  safe and  beneficial the  prescription ; yet those an;
not wanting who are ever ready to censure and condemn
■jvery honest  effort made to relieve  the suffering objects
of distress, by any one who has not passed through the
fire to  Moloch, while, at  the same time, the blush  of
shame would  crimson their own cheeks, were they to re-
flect that their boasted remedies are daily outdone by those
whom they are pleased  to denominate old women, quacks,
&.c, with their simple,  yet efficacious remedies.

             CLASS  1.   ANODYNES.
Crawley root, sub J- to O    Catnip, I use freely
Hemlock boughs, 1 use freely Hops, tincture, O
Lady Slipper, sub \ to O    Meadow Cab'ge, sub i to £  O
Opium,  see recipes        Ova Ova, I a O  or two
Pleurisy root, sub O orl D Peppermint herb, I use freely
Red Raspberry leavs,I freely Smartweed, 1 use freely
  The cause  of the pain should be  taken into  the ac-
count in selecting the remedy.  If  the  patient be bilious,
dandelion,  hemlock, hops, prickley ash, or tansy, should 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
67
he selected, because these are anti-bilious medicines, and
belong  to  class  3. ,  The careful  observer  will  thus
be enabled to make judicious selections from the classes,
for every case and stage of disease, which may be profit-
ably used, in connexion with the compounds, when neces-
sary.
              CLASS 2.
Betony root, sub \- to } O
Brook lime, I use freely
Chamomile,-1 use freely
ANTACIDS.
Boneset, I use freely
Catfoot, I  use  freely
Charcoal,  sub  O to Din milk
 Egg shells, subjoin milk  Golden seal, sub -} to-} O
 Lobelia, sub minute dose     Magnesia, i to O
 Marigold, I O  or two       Mountain ash berries, I D
 Oyster shells, sub j- O      Peach pitts, eat three or four
 Red clover roots, ID freely  Rhubarb, chew and swallow
■Saffron, I O or two        Slip'ry elm, mucilage, freely
 Soda beer, see  recipe       White mustard, wholeOton
  Remedies for acidity of the stomach, must be selected
 with regard  to the state of the system.  If  costiveness
 attend, select such articles as belong also to class 17.  If
debility, such as belong also to class 25, and thus observe
every symptom.  Lobelia should be taken half or three
quarters of an  hour before meals.  The other articles
must be used in such quantity, and  at such intervals as
experience shall dictate.  Frequent changes will be ne-
cessary, of these or other medicines.
            CLASS 3
Barberry, 1 in cider
Blood root, D  i to O
Blue Flag, sub \ to O
Bogvein, sub \ to \ O
Catfoot, I use  freely
Garden Celandine, I freely
Golden Seal, sub itoiQ
ANT I-BILIOUS.
  Black Cherry, I in cider
  Blue Cohush, sub \ to a O
  Blue Vervine, I use freely
  Boneset, I use freely
  Dandelion, all I use freely
  Gentian, sub \ to O
  Hemlock Boughs,! use freely
Indian Physic, see class 12 Mandrake, sub see class 8
Mountain Ash bark, I freely Prickley Ash bark, sub \ toQ 
63
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
Saffron, I O or two       Snake Head, I use freely
Sweet Fern, I use freely   Tacr Ald'r b'rk&tags I in cid'r
Tansy Juice,Din new milk White Ash ex., see class 8
White Vervine, IOor two  Whitewood, I O or two
  The  preparations in  cider must be taken before each
meal, a  □ to a  wine glass full at a time,  as the stomach
can bear.  Either of the other articles may be  taken two
or three times a day, as the case may require.  Change
often.
           CLASS 4.  ANTI-SEPTICS.
Cayenne, sub \ toOin milk Cat-tail Flag, D in m'lk&w'tr
Charcoal, subOtoDin milk Myrrh in tinct're, see hot dr'ps
None-so-pretty root, £ toO  Pyrena, strong, I use freely
Salt <kVinegar, see washes Smartwerd, I use freely
Yeast, as stomach can bear  Yellow Dock, I D
  This class of medicine must be used when mortifica
lion internally is apprehended.  The other medical prop-
erties of the articles will show which of them should be
preferred in any particular case.   They may generally be
used alternately.

         CLASS 5.   ANTI-SPASMODICS.
Angelica, sub a to O       Assafoetida, see nervine tmct
Bloodroot, see mothers guide Black Cohush, see recipe
Blue Scul-cap, I use freely Cuckold, [  use freely
High Cranberry, IOor two Masterwort, sub \ to O
Meadow Cabbage \ to \ O  Ova Ova root, I  O  or two
  The cause of spasms, must have a great influence in
selecting a  remedy.  If caused by wind, such articles ns
belong also to  class 7, will be proper.   If attended with
nervous debility,  those that belong also to class 20, &c
The  anti-spasmodic tinctures, and vegetable anti-convul-
sive, should be employed when necessary.

           CLASS 6.  ASTRINGENTS.
Alum root, sub £ to O      Avens root, sub \ to O
Bayberry, sub \ to O      Bearberry. I O or two 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
69
Bramble Bush, 1 O or two  Bugle-weed, I use freely
Clove root, I Oor two     Hemlock bark, I O or two
High Cranberry, IOor two Maple-leaf Alum root, I O
Marsh Rosemary, IOor two Nanny Bash, I 2 or 3 Os
Red Raspberry, 1 use freely Sumach bark, I □
Swamp Sassafras, IOor two Sweet Fern, I use freely
Tag Alder, I O or two     White Oak,  I O
White Pond Lily root,IOor2 Witch Hazle, I use freely
  This class of medicine is advantageously employed in
cases of debility, attended with a lax state of the stomach,
and bowels, diarrhoea, dysentery, &c.   Should  a spas-
modic action attend a case of dysentery, or other cases of
disease in which this class shall be necessary, so valua-
ble a remedy as the high cranbeny, cannot be  overlooked
by a careful observer.
          CLASS  7.  CARMINATIVES.
Angelica, sub i to J Oor 10 Anise seed, I O or two
Burdock seed, I O        Calamus, I O or two
Caraway, I O or two      Catfoot, I use freely
Catnip, I use freely        Chamomile, I use freely
Clove root, I O or two     Cloves, I J  O
Colic root, 1  £ to O        Cucumber tree, I J to O
Dill, 1  I  to O            Fennel, I i to O
Ginger, I O               Ginseng, 1  O
Hyssop, I  use freely      Juniper berries, I O
Lovage, I O              Masterwort, I O
Parsley, I O             Pennyroyal, I use freely
Peppermint,  I use freely   Peony, I O
Sage, I O use freely      Summer savory, I use freely
Spearmint, I use freely     Thyme, I  use freely.
  The articles of  this class may be used for wind in the
stomach, either separately, or  they  may be compounded
with other medicines, which may be necessary to  effect
oth'r  important objects.
               *    ,------
            CLASS 8.   CATHARTICS.
Aloes, see recipes         Barberry bark, sub i  toOor2 
70
MEDICAL  BOTANI8T.
Blood root, D i to O       Blue Flag, sub O or two
Bogvein, sub O or two     Butternut, ex O  to  D
Castor Oil, sub O to □     Culver root,  J to O or two
Indian Hemp, sub O  to D  Indian Physic, sub. J to O
Jallap, sub h to O         Mandrake, sub J  to  O
Mountain flax, I D         Rhubarb, sub O  or  two
Senna, see recipes         Sweet oil, sub O to a  D
Sweet Elder, ex □         White Ash,  ex D
  This is an important class of medicine, and a great  va-
riety  of  compounds wil be  found amonjj the recipes, in
addition to the simples above named, calculated to remove
superfluous matter  from the stomach and bowels; and, it
is confidently believed, that the variety will prove  amply
sufficient to meet the demands of every variety of consti-
tution, and every form  of disease which shall require their
operation.  Simples  arc  often preferable to compounds.
This class of medicine should  generally  be administered
at bed time, and repeated in the morning, if necessary.

            CLASS 9.   DETERGENTS.
Adder tongue,  I □         Bnyberry, sub J to O
Betony leaves, I use freely Bittersweet,  I D
Black Alder, I D           Black Maple, I D
Black Cohush, I O or two  Black Venine, I  D
Blue Cohush, I O or two  Bramble bush, I O or two
Blue Flag, I O and sweeten Brook-lime,  I use freely
Burdock, in cold water     Cat-tail Flag, D in mlk&watr
Cocash, I use freely        Cuckold, I use freely
Culver root, see class 8     Dandelion, all I use freely
Dwarf Elder, I use freely   Gard'n Celandine, D in m &w
Golden Thread, I use freely Guaiac chips, see recipe
Ironwood-chips, see recipe  Lobelia herb, D|aO
Mandrake, sub T\ to  i O   Pipsisway, D use freely
Sarsaparilla, D use freely  Sassafras, I  O
Scotch cap. all I use freely  Snakehead,  I Q or two
Spotted Plant'in, I use freely Sumrrch bark, I use  freely
Swamp Sassafras, I Oor 2  Sweet Fern, I use freely
Tag Alder bark, I use freely Tamarack, see recipe 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
71
Wild  Lettuce, I  use freely Yellow  Dock, I O  or two.
  Those detergents  which also possess astringent, ner-
vine, tonic properties, &e., should  be selected according
to the  situation  of the  patient.   Compounds  will also
claim attention in cleansing the blood from humors.     *
  When it is necessary to pursue a course of medicine
any length of time, for cleansing the blood, the detergent
infusion, and alterative detergent, powders may be taken
in connexion, for four or five days, then  change to the
anti-scrofulous tincture,  and detergent decoction, for the
same length of time ; or, to the cleansing infusion ; the
detergent sirup ; the detergent beer ;  or, to such of the
above named simples as  appear the best  adapted to ihr
state  of the  patient's health ;  but changes must be made
as often as once, in four  or five days.
          CLASS 10.   DIAPHORETICS.
Angelica, I O or more     Barberry, I O or more
Iietony, I use freely       Bittersweet, I use freely
Blue Sculeap, I use freely  Blue Vervine, I use freely
Blue Violet, sub J to O    Bogvein, sub J to h O
Boneset, I use freely       Brook-lime, I use freely
Cat-foot, I use freely       Catnip, I use freely
Cayenne, sub iOin milk   Chamomile, I use freely
Crawley root, sub 4 to J  O  Dandelion, all D use  freely
(dinger, I O or more       Lovage, I O or more
Mandrake, sub T\  to 4 O   Masterwort, I  O or two
Mountain Ash, I use freely Ova Ova, all I use freely
Pleurisy root, I use freely  Prickley Ash, sub i to £  O
Saffron, I O or more       Sage, I O  or more
Snake-head, I use  freely   Tansey, I  use freely
White Vervine, IOor more Wild Turnip, sub h to O
  When a  want of moisture  at the surface, is attended
with  a bilious affection, use  such articles as belong  also
to class 3 ;  and in  cases which  require  tonics, such as be-
long also to class 25, Sic.   As more passes from the  sys-
tem, when in  health, by insensible perspiration, than by
all other evacuations combined, the importance  of  this 
72
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
class of medicine  must be admitted  by every  reflecting
mind.
             CLASS  11.   DIURETICS.
A'dder tongue, I in cider    Bearberry, I use freely
Bittersweet, I use freely    Black Vervine, I use freely
Blue Flag, tincture in gin   Brook-lime, I  use freely
Clivers, I c'ld w'tr use freely Cuckold, I use freely
Dandelion, all I use freely  Dwarf Elder, I use freely
Erma, I use freely          Hard root, D use freely
Indian  Hemp, I O  or two   Indian Physic, I O or more
Jacobs Ladder, I use freely Juniper, 1  D or two
Knot Grass, I use  freely   Lobelia Herb, O in D
Masterwort, I use freely    Milkweed, I D or two
Motherwort, I use  freely   Parsley, I  use freely
Pipsisway, I use freely     Pumpion seeds, I use freely
Pyrena, all I use freely     Queen of the meadow I freely
Red Raspberry, I use freely Rush, I use freely
Smartweed, I use freely    Scotch cap, all D use freelv
Spearmint, tinct  in gin     Sweet Elder,  I or tinct freely
White  Snakeroot, I freely   Whortleberry, see recipe
Winter Clover, I use freely  Wintergreen,  I use freely
  In this class,  also, there is  a variety for the different
conditions of the system, cathartics, nervines, &c, which
should be borne in  mind in selecting for any  individual
case.   Three ounces  to  a quart, will be sufficient for ;i
tincture in cider or spirits, and  this should  be taken before
meals, as the stomach  can bear, and necessity require.
The other  articles may be used for  a constant drink, as
may be necessary.
              CLASS  12.  EMETICS.
Bayberry, I □ use freely   Blood root, see recipe
Boneset bl'ms, I in w'rm w'r Bramble bush, I use freely
Indian Physic, see recipe   Lobelia, see emetic powder
Salt.Odrink cold wat'rfreely White Ash, exD once an hour
  As there is a constitutional  aversion in some cases, to
some articles of medicine, as well as of food, it is irnpor- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
73
tant to have a variety for every purpose, that all may ba
benefitted.   I have, therefore, arranged under this head,
such articles as have been highly beneficial in individual
cases, and which may be important, to others; but, as an
emetic, universally  applicable in  all cases, the  emetic
powder,  it  is confidently believed,  is superior to any
other preparation for this purpose.   The mode of adminis-
tering it  is,  first get the stomach active by the use  of the
sudorific  infusion, or the alterative cleansing powders, the
composition powders, or such other preparations  as the
case may require, and some warming infusions, as of cat-
nip, chamomile, ginger, pennyroyal, peppermint, summer
savory, or the sudorific infusion ; and, if the stomach and
system, generally, be very inactive, it is important to pur-
sue this course as freely as the stomach can bear, for two
or three  days before giving th.; emetic ; but, if the stom-
ach be usually active, it may be administered without de-
lay, always being sure; that the bowels are not in  a very
costive state.
   The immediate preparation for administering the emetic
is, first   let  the  patient drink freely of some of the infu-
sions above named, until a pint, or more be taken in the
course of half an hour,  the  patient being secluded from
cold  air, and the feet warm ; then add half a O   of the
emetic powder to four Os of the infusion, luke warm, and
^ive a O at a time, once in fifteen minutes, until the wholo
be taken, if necessary;  or, if this shall  fail to act upon
the stomach sufficiently, another half O may be prepared
in like  manner, and given at a dose.   After which, the
patient may take thin milk porridge, or water gruel, freely,
which will  assist the operation ; and, after the operation,
a little toast, or other light nourishment, will generally be
all that the  pa:ient  will require for a number of hours.  In
cases of long standing, this course should be repeated
once a week, and  in some  cases  more  frequently, until
the system  shall be well cleansed, using such medicines
in  the  intervals as  the necessity of the patient may re-
quire.   A weak solution of sale.ratus  in warm water, ra;i^» 
74
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
ho taken after an emetic, in case  of acidity.   A quantity,
ihe size of a grain of Indian corn, will be sufficient for a
tea-cupful.   One quarter, third, or half of this may be, ta-
ken at a time, and repeated in fifteen or twenty minutes,
if necessary.   It generally assists the operati.ni.  A O of
brandy made into  sling, or a dose of the anodyne tincture,
or  a free use of the above  named infusions, will at once
relieve the distress sometimes causpd by an emetic ;  and,
a drop or two of peppermint oil on a  small  piece  of  loaf
sugar, will control the excessive action of the stomach.
As the operation  of an  emetic is  somewhat  tedious, it
(should never be  commenced  rashly, or given  without
thorough and close attention.
  Other articles or preparations of this class  may be found
Ruperior, in some cases, and should be used when neces-
sary.
         CLASS  13.   EMMLWAGOGUES.
Black Cherry, I in cider    Black Cohush, tinct. in rum
Blue Cohush, I O or two   Chamomile, 1 D or more
Featherfew,l use freely    Gingis, I O
Green  Wheat juice, D      Motherwort I use freely
Oak of Jerusalem, I D      Pennyroyal, I use freely
Pyrena, I use freely        Rue, tincture in ru:n
Summer savory, I use freely Tansey, I use freely
Thyme, I use freely        White Vervine, I O or two
  Hero are nervine, stimulating, sudoritic and tonic em-
menagogues, calculated  for tho different constitutions of
the  system, which should be  observed in making a pre-
scription.   The  tonics, and  especially  the black cherry
and  chamomile, should  be taken  before meals,  as  the
stomach can bear,  and the other articles, mostly,  at bed
time.   A D or two of the tinctures may occasionally be
added to the infusions when taken, and repeated, as oc-
casion  may require.
            CLASS 14.  EPISPASTICS.
Blister root, bruised        Butternut  root  bark, bruised 
                  MEDICAL BOTANIST.                73

Crow foot, bruised         Horseradish leaves, wilted
Mayweed, bruised         Mustard, see plasters
Rue, bruised              Wormwood, bruised.
  These articles may be secured to their place by a lin-
en  cloth, around  the edge  of which plaster has  been
spread, and the whole enclosed in a  bandage for six or
eight hours, when it  may  be removed and either kind of
cabbage leaves applied, (garden or mead,) and the blister
will soon appear.  The- water should  be let out, and the
leaves often changed, or a deep, ugly sore may be  the con-
sequence.
  Blisters are often  unnecessarily resorted  to, and often
become  a source  of severe torture.  They should never
be employed, except where counter irritation is necessary.
and are  then  sometimes important.
             CLASS 15.   ERUHINES.
 Bay berry                  Blood root
 Cayenne                   Gingis
 Indian Physic              Lfuirel
 Lobelia leaves              White Hellebore
   Before being used, these articles should  be reduced to
a  fine powder.   Common snuff', for headache, &c, is
made of the Indian Physic, scented with some of the ar-
omatic oils.  See  essential oils.  For catarrh, the laurel
leaves, or white hellebore may be used, or a compound of
bloodroot, gingis and myrrh, equ.il  parts, well mixed, or
bayberry, bloodroot, gingis and lobelia,  equal  parts  and
well mixed.  Either of  these should  be  kept a little
moist with the oil of organum.   For polypus in the nose,
bloodroot alone may be used, or it may he compounded
with bayberry, equal parts.   Cayenne is not recommend-
ed to be used as snuff, except in some extraordinary cases
where other articles will have little or no effect.  In that
case cayenne  and lobelia may be mixed together, equal
parts, and used to advantage, a little at a time,  but not often.
  Tho fumes  of hartshorn, or ether, if inhaled through
the nose, will stop sneering. 
76
MEDICAL BOTANIST
         CLASS  16.   EXPECTORANTS.
Assafoetida, see nervine tine. Black Vervine, I use freely
Blood root,  O in D        Blue Vervine, I use freely
Cayenne, T'j- to O in milk  Crawley root, see recipe
Blue violet,iO with cayenne Flax seed, see recipe
Hoarhound, I with boneset  Hyssop, I use  freely
Licorice ex or root,       Lobelia, O or two in D
Mandrake,  sub see recipes Maple Lungwort, I use freely
Meadow cabbage,Oor 2 in D Onion juice, £ to O
Pyrena, I use freely       Smartweed, 1  use  freely
Spikenard,  I in honey      Wa-ahoo, see recipe
White Pine bark, I use fr'ly Wild Turnip, sub  £ to O
  The  nervine tincture  may  sometimes  be  used as an
expectorant, to advantage, as  well  as various other com-
pounds designated for that purpose, when  they are more
convenient  or efficacious than the simples above mention-
ed.  Cayenne may  be taken  with blue violet, with flax-
seed mucilage,  or in milk.   Add a O or two  of crawley
root to one  gill of sharp vinegar, and half a pint of water,
simmer to  half pint, strain and  sweeten with  honey.
Dose, one  O  or two,  three or four  times a day.  Com-
pounds which contain  cathirtic expectorants,  should bo
cautiously employed when the  bowels are in a debilitated
state, and nauseating medicines when the  stomach is in
iiii  irritable state.   Honey, or loaf sugar  may be freely
used with either of the articles of this class, if agreeable
to the  patient.

             CLASS  17.  LAXATIVES.
Assafoetida, see ner. tinct.   Barberry berries, conserve
Black Alder, sub J to O   Black Cherry, chew
Blue Violet, sub £ to O    Charcoal, sub O to D
Columbo, sub £ O         Cucumber tree, sub or I
Dandelion, ex O or two   Egg shells, sub i to O
Gentian, l  to O           Golden seal
 Mullen blos'ms, I use freely  Peach leaves, I use freely
Saffron, I use freely        Slippery Elm, sub
Snake head               Sweei Elder, I use freely 
MEDICAL BOTANIST
77
White Mustard.wholeOtoD White Poplar, sub J to O
  The mullen, peach leaves, saffron and sweet elder, are
intended for infants.  The other articles of this class may
be used for children and debilitated adults.   The anti-
dyspeptic bitters, anti-dyspeptic pills, detergent laxative
powders, laxative beer, laxative bitters, and sirup of rhu-
barb, are also useful for those who require mild treatment,
whether in childhood or advanced life.
         CLASS  18.   LITHONTRIPTICS.
  Blood root, D as freely as the stomach can bear
  Clivers, I in cold water, 4 oz. to a quart, use freely
  Garden Celandine, D in milk, use as the stomach  can
bear.
  Garden Onion juice, or tincture in gin.  Dose, 2 to  4
 D s twice a day.
  Hard root, in  strong  D, to each  three pints of which,
well settled and poured off, add one pint of a strong tinc-
ture of queen of the meadow prepared in gin.  This may
be taken as freely as the patient can boar.
  Lobelia  in  strong  D  is recommended,  if the patient
can bear it.
  Sweet Appletree bark  in ex, a O to JO as the patient
ean bear.
  Sweet Clover in strong D  to be used as the patient
can bear.
  Also, a free use of alkalies, and injecting into the blad-
der] of a decoction of the garden radish, or alkali prepa-
rations, sufficiently weak to  be taken  into the stomach,
are recommended as far preferable to lythotomy.
  As I have never proved the efficacy of blood root, gar-
den celandine, garden onions, lobelia,-radish or the alka-
lies, for the purpose of dissolving the stone in the bladder,
t mention them only because they are highly recommend-
ed, from what I consider good authority.

            CLASS  19.  NEPHRITICS.
Bearberry,  I use freely     Beth root, i to i O 
7a
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
Bittersweet, I  O or two    Blood root, O in D
Blue Violet, sub J to O     Cat-foot, I use freely
Clivers, see class 18       Erma, I use freely
Knot Grass, I  use freely    Lobelia, O in  D
Parsley, I use freely       Peach leaves, I use freely
Pipsisway, ex pills  I to 3   Pyrena, 1 use freely.
  In cases of bloody  urine, peach leaves  will  be found
efficacious, if used lor a day or two, and uva ursi, or other
ariicles  may be used  afterward.   For a debility  of the
loins in consequence of a chronic disease of the kidneys,
pipsisway pills possess great efficacy.   In diseases of the
kidneys,  causing a  suppression of urine,  those articles
possessing active diuretic  properties  must  be employed
Foment if necessary.

             CLASS  20.  NERVINES.
Angelica,  sub £ to O       Assafcelida, See ner. tinct
Avens root, sub £ to O     Beth root, sub i to £ O
Betony root, I O or two    Black  Vervine, I O or two
Blood root, tinct 6 to 30 drps Blue Flag, see recipes
Blue Scul-cap, I use freely Brook-lime, I use freely
Chamomile, I use freely    Clove root, 1 use freely
Cocash, I  use  freely   •    Colic root, I O  or two
Crawley root,  I O or two   Cuckold, I use freely
Ginseng,  I O or two      Golden thread, I use freely
High  Cran. I  O or two    Knot Grass, I use freely
Lady slipper, I use freely   Marigold, I O or two
Meadow Cabbage, sub £ O Motherwort, I  use freely
Ova Ova, I O or two      Peony, I O oi  two
Pleurisy root, I or sub freely Pyrena, I use freely
Queen of mead. I Oor two Red Cohush, I  O or two
Saffron, I  O or two        Scotch-cap, D use freely
Snake-head, I  O or two    Sweet  Fern, I use freely
Vine Maple, I use freely    Water  cup root, I O or two
  Nervines, as well as other medicines, must be selected
according to the circumstances of  the  patient otherwise.
The powders should generally be administered night and
morning, and the D  and I as a constant drink through the 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
73
day, and if preferred to the powders, may also be taken
freely at bed time.
    CLASS 21.   DIFFUSIBLE STIMULANTS
Calamus, I  O or two       Cayenne, I i to £ O
Cloves. I J  to £ O         Cocasb, I use freely
Ginger, I O or two        Gingis, 1 O or two
Horseradish, I □ or less   Lovage, I  O or two
Mayweed, I use freely     Mustard, I  □ or less
Summer Savory, I use freely White siiakeroot, I  O or two
Wormwood, I use freely    Yarrow, I use freely.
  These medicines may be used when a quick stimulant
is  required ; and,  in some cases, may be advantageously
employed in the first stage of disease.
     CLASS  22.  DURABLE STIMULANTS.
Angelica, sub O or two    Bayberry, sub £ to O
Black Cherry, I D         Black Cohush. sub J to J O
lllue Cohush, sub O or two Boneset, I use freely
Cayenne, sub r\ to »  O    Cucumber tree, sub £ to O
Guaiac gum, tinct. £ O     Pipsisway,  I use freely
Prickley Ash, sub £ to O   Snake-head, I O or two
White Mustard, sub Oto D Whitewood, sub ~ to O
  This class of medicine is rarely proper in the first stage
of disease.   Some of the articles, however, possess other
important properties, for which they are recommended iu
other classes, and in the compounds.
             CLASS 23.  STYPTICS.
Alum root, sub | O        Avens root, sub j O
Beth root, sub £ O         Bugle weed I
1'ireweed leaves, I        Fleabine leaves, I
Mandrake, sub i to J  O    Mountain marigold, I
None-sp-pretty leaves, I    Peach leaves, I
Witch-hazle  leaves, I      Yarrow, I.
  Here are astringent, cathartic, and other styptics which
should be used according to the necessity of the case.
These may  be  used more or less liberally, as the case 
80
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
may require.  A D  of the articles recommended for re-
fusions may be prepared  at a time, and the  powdere re-
peated at proper intervals.

             CLASS 24.  SUDORIFICS^
Blue Scul-cap, I  use freely  Calamint, I use.freely
Catnip, I use freely        Crawley root, sub I to O
Cuckold, I use freely      Ginger, I O or two
Hemlock boughs,Iuse freely Hyssop,  I use freely
Oak of Jerusalem, I freely  Pennyroyal, I use freely
Peppermint, I use freely    Pleurisy root, I use  freoiy
Pyrena, I use freely        Red Raspberry, I use  freely
Sage, I use freely         Smartweed, 1 use freely.
Summer Savory,  freely     Thyme,  I use freely
White Snakeroot, I O or 2  Yarrow,  I use freely.
  The articles of this class, and the sudorific  and aqp-
dyne infusions are invaluable sudorifics, and may be safely
used in all cases which require sweating remedies.  The
anodyne drops, anodyne  powders, or asthmatic tincture,
may be taken in  connexion with the infusions whenever
the patient is severely afflicted with pain.   The sweating
may be  farther promoted  by placing a  stone at the feel,
thoroughly warmed and wrapped in a damp, linen clolh,
with a dry one over  it.   Bathing  the feet, (see bathing
applications) is often of great value at the commencement
of taking sweating remedies.   Sometimes, too, the wear-
ing apparel should be removed entirely, while the body is
shielded from the air by a quilt or blanket, and the fumes
of burning alcohol from one or more lamps, or the vapor
of hot water increased by immersing heated stones in  it
be permitted to  circulate freely  around every part of the
surface except the head, while sudorifics should be freely
administered. This  process may  be continued from fif-
teen minutes  to an hour, as the  patient can bear or the
case may require; and, if necessary to prevent faintness,
bathe the face  and  breast occasionally in cold  water.
When the warm  bath is  discontinued, the patient  should
be bathed all over in cold spirits or cold water,  the under 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
81
garments put on, and the patient may return to bed with a
stone to the feet as before directed; or, if health and weath-
er will permit, he may dress and walk out.   The best po-
sition in ordinary cases while applying the bath, is for the
patient to sit in an open bottomed  chair with th.e lamps at
the sides and back of the chair, or, if water is used, a pan
containing it may set  at the back of the chair, and th'e quilt
raised  while heated stones may be partly immersed in the
water as the case may require, so as to keep the«vapor as
the patient can bear.
   Another kind of bath, which, in many  cases is proba-
bly superior to every  other method as yet devised, is the
application to the  whole surface of a wet  sheet, differing
in temperature from warm to cold, according to the ability
of the patient to bear, is thus described in a work  of 1 it
duodecimo pages, published by Wilson &  Co. New-York,
No. 15, Spruce Street,  entitled the Philosophy of the Wa-
ter Cure, price 2j cents, and can  be forwarded by  mail.

               "THE  WET  SHEET.

    This,  by different modes of application, is used forth';
two-fold purpose of increasing or diminishing the animal
temperature ; soothing aches and initation—rem >\ ing lan-
guor and fatigue—tranquilizing the pulse, and subduing fe-
ver.   It opens the pores, favors cutaneous transudation  of
morbid materials.  Hence the intolerable odor sometimes
exhaled from tho  sheets; and  the thick coating of slimy
matter with whL-h they are varnished.  The fluids repell-
ed from the surface by the first chill return with a brisker
 circulation : the escape of caloric is prevented by the cov-
ering;  and  the moisture of the sheets is converted into va-
 por.   According to the delicacy  of  constitution, and the
 feebleness of the reactive power, the heat of the water
 and the weight, of the covering must be increased.
   Tho wet sh«N!t  is Priessuitz's greatest discovery, and far
 outstrips all other therapeutical improvements ever made
 in the heating art.  This is destined to be the universal
      vol. i.                  6 
82
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
domestic remedy used by-mothers and nurses in the out-
break of all illnesses ; and will supersede,™ nine cases
in ten, both the employment of medicine, and the attend-
ance of the  physician.   With  every water-cured person
its efficacy will be  an article of faith that no arguments
will stagger, and its practice in every emergency a source
of confidence that no authority will baffle.  Few are the
complaints in young or old in which this  remedy will not
be hailed-as one of the best, boons ever given by Heaven
to suffering mortals.  This language is strong, and may be
called enthusiastic.   But we appeal to those who  have
tested the powers of the wet-slieet fomentation,  whether
our meed of praise  is commensurate with its merits.  In
weariness and watching—in fatigue and cold—in restless-
ness and anguish—in acute diseases and  in  chronic ail
ments—in fevers and inflammations—in shivered nerves
•md fretted brain—in worn-out stomachs and palsied bow-
els—in irritated skin ar.J broken bones- -in quelling mor-
bid heat, and soothing morbid seusibility—in the quiet rou-
tine of home and the bustle  of travel abroad—in infancy
and in age—in  the weak and in the  strong—in cottages
and in palaces—in courts and in camps—in hospitals and
in prisons—in all climates and seasons—shivering at  tho
poles, or scorching in the tropics- -in all the multiform ills
that flesh is heir to—the wet sheet will be the first reme-
dial resource of the sick, and the last  earthly refuge df the
dying.
  The wet sheet is applied  in the following  way:—A
thick quilt or comfortable  is first smoothly  spread on a
mattrass or bed, a  flannel  sheet over this and a linen or
cotton sheet wrung out of either warm or  cold water ovei
the flannel sheet : the patient then reclines at full length,
and has first the wet sheet and then  the  flannel wrapped
round him, fitting it  closely about the neck, and securely
covering the feet.  The blanket is then with equal care
tucked under the neck and shoulders, the  trunk and limbs
of one  side, and then  of  the  other.  This " packing"
which resembles a compact bale of goods, is then comple- 
                  MEDICAL  BOTANIST.               83

ted by a load of additional blankets and coverings, or pref-
erably by a down-feather bed, which is well tucked in from
the neck to the feet.   In this state tho patient is  allowed
to remain  from half an hour  to an hour,  drinking a small
tumbler or two of water in the time.  The first impres-
sion is disagreeable, but it is only  for a minute  or two;
and is succeeded by  a soothing freshness hightening into
a delicious glow ;  which would end in perspiration if pro-
longed.  On being unpacked from this envelopement, the
patient takes the cold or tepid half-bath or full-bath, and is
well rubbed in the water by an attendant for a longer or a
shorter time, himself assisting in the operation.   He then
dresses quickly, and  goes out to his customary walk and
water-drinking.  This process is usually gone  through the
first thing in the morning, and commences the daily rou-
tine of treatment.  It is repeated or not in the subsequent
parts of the day, according  as it is indicate 1.   The sen-
sations of the patient will often be the mnutors for his ex-
trication, and  the inducement for its repetition or cessation.
When the object is to quell fever, the sheet must be chang-
ed every  quarter of  an hour or half hour, or as  often as
may be necessary to bring about a cool surface.  When.
the due abstraction of'heat  and reduction of  fever is ef-
fected, the patient is put into a slightly tepid bath, and well
rubbed."
   I have seen surprisingly good effects produced by this
bath, followed by thoroughly applied  friction  without the
additional water bath.   I am of the opinion that  this is a
powerful auxiliary in removing many diseases, and espe-
cially those attended with nervous debility.   The a/plica-
tion of cold water to the whole surface after the !';■ li, 01 on
rising in the morning by showering, sponging, or with the
hand,  followed by brisk  and thoroughly  applied friction
with a flesh brush or  coarse towel, is highly recornrnenJc I
as a luxury and a preventive of disease by invigorating the
system, at all seasons of the year.   It is also recommenc-
ed that the under garment worn through the day should be
exchanged on retiring to rest, and this is certainly economy. 
84
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
  If determinations to the head occur during this process,
cold applications to the scalp are to be constantly renewed
as they get warm.   If the feet or  legs continue cold, ap-
ply heated stones as directed on page 80, to the feet and
limbs.

                "WET  BANDAGES

  Accomplish on a small scale, and on fitting places, wlial
the wet sheet, does for the  whole body.  They are em-
ployed also with the two-fold object of cooling or heating,
of diminishing or increasing action, according as evapora-
tion is permitted or prevented, and according to the fre-
quency of their renewal.  In tho one case, when the ob-
ject is to lessen action—to  subdue or prevent inilamma-
tion—to allay the irritation of wounds, bruises, or fractures
—the fomentation is kept constantly renewed, but allowed
to evaporate.  In the other  case, it acts'as a counter-irri-
tant ; it transfers action from the deeper-seated parts to the
surface, allaying irritation, relieving visceral congestions,
dissipating engorgements, opening up obstructions, solving
spasm, and restoring secretions.   These  objects are fur-
ther aided by derivation to distant  parts, as by the  hip and
foot-baths.
  The wet bandages are applied  to various parts of the
body.  The cooling or refrigerant bandage consists of lin-
en  of suitable  size for the  part affected,  folded  several
times, and  dipped  in cold   water, gently expressed, and
placed on the part affected.   This application is renewed
every five or ten minutes, according  to the cooling  effect
intended;  and continued night and day without interval,
until the inflammation is removed or danger averted.  Neg-
lect in their change may  cause the  worst results, by pro-
moting what it is intended to prevent.  These coolino ban-
dages are used  when active inflammation is going on ;  in
acute affections  of the head ; in local injuries ;  in  suppu-
rating surfaces, as boils;  in  compound  fractures—and
wherever the indication is to lessen action. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
85
   The heating or stimulant bandage only differs from the
last in evaporation being prevented by  an effectual  cover-
ing or bandage of dry linen, and in the water being more
thoroughly wrung out.   These are not changed till they
begin to be dry.   This fomentation is universally applied
in all local chronic diseases, all wounds, injuries, and  ul-
cers ; in disorders of the liver,  stomach, bowels,  heart,
luns^, and ganglionic nervous centres—in short, to any
painful  snot, or  seat of irritation—to some eruptions and
boils, and to gouty and rheumatic joints.
   The  abdominal fomentation or bandage is almost  of uni-
versal application.   This consists of a towel of about three
yards long, and from six inches to a foot  in  width.  One
third of it wetted and well wrung out  is wound round the
abdomen and back, and covered by the dry part, drawn as
tightly  as  can be  conveniently  borne: for otherwise it
would permit evaporation, and produce chill.   It is to be
renewed  whenever it becomes dry; and is usually to be
worn by night as well as by day.  If the back should re-
main chilly, the  front part only of the bandage is to be wet-
ted ; and  exercise should be used after it.   This fomenta-
tion is of great utility in all derangements of the abdomi-
nal and pelvic viscera; facilitating remarkably the func-
tions of the stomach and bowels ; allaying morbid sensi-
bility  and  inflammatory irritation in its  several tissues;
relieving constipation  on the one hand, and  diarrhoea on
the  other.  Patients subject to sore  throats, or to  pulmo-
 nary affections,  should wear constantly the, heating band-
 ages round the throat, and over the chest."

                CLASS 25.  TONICS.
 Barberry, I a O or two    Bayberry, I a O  or two
 Bearberry, I use freely     Bethroot, sub h to £ a O
 Black Cherry, 1 a O or two Blagk Poplar, I a O or two
 Bogvein, I a O  or two     Boneset, I use freely
 Boxwood Blossoms, I      Brooklime, I use freely
 Buglcweed, I use freely    Colic Root, I a O
 Chamomile, I use freely    Comfrey, sub mucilage 
86
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 Columbo, T a O or two     Ginseng, I a O or two
 Cucumber Tree, I a O     Goldenseal, sub-J-to £ of a O
 Gsntian, sub £ or I a O    Hard Root, I use freely
 Gulden Thread, I use freely Indian Hemp, I a O or two
 Iron Wood Heart, I a O    Lady Slipper, I a O or two
 Mountain Ash, la O or two Nanny Bush, I a D or less
 Pc.xcli Pitts, eat 3 or 4      Queen of the Meadow, I
 Sage, I cold, for night sweats Snake Head, I a O or two
 Solomon Seal, eat some    Spikenard, I a O or two
 Swamp Sassafras, la O or 2 Sweet apple tree, I a Dor less
 Tag Alder, I a O  to a D    Tansey juice, a  D  in milk
 Vine Maple, I use freely   Water Cup rout, I a O
 White daisy, I for night sw'ts White Wood, I a O or two
  Many  of these  tonics possess other  important medical
 qualities, such as  astringent, diuretic, stimulating,  su-
 dorific, <fec. which should be observed in making a selec-
 tion for any individual case.   Some too, are quite power-
ful, others very  mild, so that a selection may be made for
tlie extremely debilitated as vvcll as for the more vigorous
 and active.  These medicines are calculated to give  tone
to, and invigorate the system,  when exhausted or prostra-
 ted by excessive fatigue or by disease, and are  therefore
used only as restoratives in the absence  of fever or inflam-
matory action.  A number of  the compounds are designa-
ted as tonics, which will be found useful.
           CLASS 26.  VERMIFUGES.
Black Alder, sub J to a O  Black Poplar, sub £ to a O
Bogvein, sub {- to  J a O     Couhage, see covvhage
Cucumber Tree, £ to a O   Garlic juice, a O to a C
Gonthn, sub  £ to a O       Hops, I strong freely
Indian Hemp, sub £ to a O  Indian Physic, ± to £ a O
Mandrake, see class 8      Oak of Jerusalem, sub ~ to O
Peach leaves, I use freely   Rue, 1 or sub J to £ a O
Sage, sub j to a O      *   Snake Head, sub fto a O
Spearmint, I strong         Tansey juice, a O to a  D
White cedar oil, 3 to 8 drops White Poplar, sub £ to a O
Whit© vervine,sub J to* a O White wood, sub * to £ a O 
MEDICAL B0TANI8T.
87
Wild Turnip, sub £ to a O •  Wormwood, sub {- to j a O
  In this class are medicines which also possess cathar-
tic, stimulating, sudorific, tonic, and other properties, which
should be selected as the  patient shall require.   The ver-
mifuge  powders  are  invaluable as  a vermifuge and  to
strengthen the stomach.   The oil  of turpentine in honey
and milk, is highly recommended in O doses.   Dr. Whit-
ney says,  " it will remove the tape worm  with more cer-
tainty than any other means."   While pursuing a.coursr
of treatment for worms, cathartics belonging to  this  class
or other cathartics, should be administered once  in three
or four days,  or as freely  as the  strength of the patient
will admit.  Dose of cowhage, one or two Os.
                     BALSAMS.

   Balsam of Balm of Gilead, is obtained by heating an 1
pressing the  buds ; or a tincture may be  made by putting
the buds into alcohol.   This balsam is healing, stimulating
and tonic, and mav be used internally or externally.
   Balsam of Fir, is obtained from blisters in the bark, and
snay be used tinctured in alcohol or otherwise,  and pos-
sesses anodyne, diuretic and laxative properties*.
   Balsam of Pine, is obtained from cavities in   the tim-
ber, is healing  and tonic ; but is so  seldom obtained that
it is rarely used.
   Balsam of Spruce, is most frequently obtained in an in-
spissated form (gum) on the bark of  the tree, and  may be
tinctured in  alcohol, and possesses  diuretic,  expectorant
and tonic properties.  Useful in asthma, consumption, &c.
   Balsam of Tamarack,  is obtained from cavities in the
timber and by incisions,  and may be tinctured in alcohol
It possesses healing, stimulating and tonic properties.
   These lialsams  may be taken a few drops at a  time on
loaf sugar, and the tincture may be  taken  in £ O doses
for internal pain or soreness.   They may be applied ex-
ternally for pain, or sprain. 
#8               MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
                i
        VEGETABLE  ESSENTIAL OILS.
Anise-seed—Carminative, dose from 1 to 4 drops.
Fir—Anodyne, diuretic, stimulating and tonic, 6 to 10.
Fireweed—Cooling, healing and styptic, 5  to 15.
Fleabane—Cooling, healing and styptic, 5 to 15.
Hemlock Tree—Anodyne and sudorific, 8 to 15.
Juniper—Carminative and diuretic, 8 to  15.
Lemon—Essence good to create an appetite, 6 to 15.
Origanum—Good in catarrhal affections and in liniments.
Pennyroyal—Carminative and sudorific, 5 to 10.
Peppermint—Anodyne,carminative and sudorific, 1 to 3.
Sassafras—Detergent, externally stimulating. 1 to 3.
Savin—Diuretic, emmenagogue and tonic, 1 to 3.
Spearmint—Carminative, diuretic and vermifuge, 2 to 6.
Spruce—Diuretic,  expectorant and tonic, 2 to 6.
Summer Savory—Cirmim. ive, stim. and sudorific, 1  to3
Tansey—Emmenagogue, tonic and vermifuge, 1  to 4.
White  Cedar—'Ionic and vermifuge,  1 to 4.
Wintergreen—Carminative  and diuretic, 1 to 3.
Wormwood—Stimulating, tonic and vermifuge, 1 to 3.
Worm  Seed-  Vermifuge, 3 to 8.
  When e  .ntial oils are used internally, they should ei-
ther be dropped on sugar  or cut in alcohol.   One ounce of
oil is sufficient for a pint.  The figures  at  the end of the
lines show the number of drops of each, that may  be ta-
ken with safety.  Three or four times  as much of the es-
sence may be taken.
  ANIMAL OILS, TO BE USED INTERNALLY.
Bears oil, itoaO          (loose oil, J to a O
Hens oil, {toaO          Mud Turtle's oil, 4 to 8 drops
Pig foot oil, x to a O        Rattle snake's oil, 4 to 6 drops
Skunk oil, } to a O         Turkey oil, j  to a O
  These directions are intended for children.  Adults may
take three or four times as much.  These  oils  are impor-
tant in cases of croup  and affections of the lungs, caused
by taking cold, hoarseness, difficulty of breathing, &c.
  The above, and dog oil, fox oil, fresh butter oil, neat's 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
89
foot oil, raccoon's oil, and squirrel oil, are useful in the
preparation of ointments and salves.
  Anglo worms put into a bottle and set in the sun in hot
weather,  soon forms a valuable relaxing oil for shrunk
cords and muscles.
  Mud Turtle and Rattlesnake oils moderately employed,
are  also good for a relaxing application.

       VEGETABLE EXPRESSED  OILS..
  Soft pure  vegetable oil may be obtained by  pounding,
warming and pressing  the.  meats ot either butternut  or
hickory nut, which is usefully  employed to drop into the
ear in case of hardened wax.                         •
  The oil of  pumpion seeds obtained in the same manner,
is a powerful diuretic to be employed as the case may re-
quire.   Dose G to  12 drops.
  Castor oil is also an expressed oil, much used as medi-
cine.  The cold pressed, is. however, superior to thatob-
lained by warming.  Crotoii oil is also expressed.

  BATHING AND FOMENTING APPLICATIONS.
  Alkali—Weak or white lye, or a solution of salacratus a
little slippery, as warm as it can be borne, is an invalua-
ble preparation for bathing the fe«*t, in case of obstructions.
   Bittersweet—Foment painful tumors, and bathe  for in-
 flammations.
   Black Cohush—Bathe painful tumors, swelled limbs &c.
   Black Vervine—Foment painful tumors.
   Buttermilk—Bathe for inflammation, poison, &c.
  Cayenne—A O or two added to w-.nil water to  bathe
 ilie feet; or mix with an  equal quantity of salt, to  be I in
 vinegar, bathe for rheumatism.
   Hemlock boughs—Strong I, bathe the feet or foment for
 pain.
   Hops simmered in vinegar, foment for pain.
   Oats boiled enclosed in linen, foment for pain.
   Onions roasted or boiled and enclosed, foment forpaia. 
00                MEDICAL BOTANIST.
   Potatoes boiled,mashed fine & enclosed.foment for pain
   Salt and water, bathe the whole surface when debilitated.
   Scoke root—Slice and boil a large handfull, bathe the
feet in dropsy.
   Smartvveed—Strong I, bathe  feet or foment  for pain
This is an invaluable foment i i the inllanied stage  of tho
piles.
   White Oak bark—Strong I, bathe weak cords, foul ul-
cers, &c.
   Wormwood—Strong I, bathe bruises or foment for pain.
   Before and while using bathing  or fomenting applica-
tions, tho patient  should use sudorifics freely, and ano-
dynes if necessary.  After  bathing the feet (hall an hour
at least) wipe them drv and wrap  them in warm flannel.
Aftor fomenting, wipe the part dry, bathe with liniment
or tincture, and keep the part warm and secure from air.

                     WASHES.
   Bayberry—Strong I for foul  ulcers, &c, and as the pa-
tient can near, for sore eves.
   Bittersweet—Strong I for foul ulcers,  &c.
   Black Maple, strong I for foul ulcers, inflammation, Sic.
   Bramble bush, strong I for foul ulcers, inflammation, Sic.
   Cat tail flag,  strong  D in milk and water  for irritable
so res.
   Cayenne, I as the patient  can bear for  foul indolent ul-
cers.
   Comfrey, pulverise very fine, and make into mucilagi
for sores.
   Nanny bush, strong I for  foul ulcers.
   None-so-pretty, make into mucilage for irritable sores.
   Princes pine, strong D for inflammations, foul ulcers <fec.
   Pyrena, strong  I for inflammation, fresh wounds  or ul-
cers.
   Rose Willow, strong D for foul ulcers.
   Scoke Root, strong D for bloating of the feet and dropsy
   Swamp Sassafras, strong I for foul ulcers. 
MEDICAL DOTANIST.                91
  Vinegar of the best quality, saturated with salt, reduced
3 to  1 with soft water, is an invaluable remedy for inflam-
ed eyes, for car.ker, scarlet fever, <fec.
  White Oak, strong I for foul or putrid ulcers.
  White Pine bark, strong I  in cold water for tumors  or
ulcers.  Warm when applied if necessary.
  Wild Indigo, strong  D for cancers, tumors and foul mor-
tifying ulcers.
  Yellow Dock, strong I for cancers  and foul mortifying
ulcers.
  As soon as consistent after applving a wash (except to
the eye) shield the affected  part from the air by the  ap-
plication of some of the poultices, ointments,   salves or
plasters.                                           .
                     POULTICES.
    Basswood made soft simmered in  cream, milk or milk
  and water, is soothing.
    Carrots grated, raw or boiled tender, is good in cases of
  inflammation.
    Catnip, strong I, heat boiling hot and thicken with corn
*v meal.
    Cat tail flag root boiled in milk and  water and pounded
  soft, for swellings, morlideations, &c.
    Charcoal  finely  pulverised and mixed with brewers
  yeast, powerfully antiseptic.
    Comfrey pulverised, or the green roots pounded, moist-
  ened and applied, is soothing.
    Flax-seed pounded fine, stir  it into a thin corn meal
  pudding, while hot.
    Lobelia herb pulverised and mixed with an equal quan-
  tity of slippery elm, and  moistened  with  some of  the
  washes.  This is one of ilie.' best poultices ever  used for
  inflamed indolent ulcers.
    None so pretty pulverised and prepared as flax-seed, or
  with lobelia.
    Pussy willow bark, pulverised  and prepared  as bass--
  wood. 
92
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
  Potatoes boiled or roasted, are good for inflammation.
  Pyrena pulverised and mixed with slippery elm, or pre-
pared as flax-seed.
  Sassafras bark  pulverised and prepared as flax-seed or
with lobelia.
  Scoke root roasted and made soft, or pulverise and mix
with slippery elm.
  Slippery Elm finely pulverised and moistened with some
wash infusion.
  Sorrel leaves roasted in a cabbageleafi*  This will has-
ten  suppuration.
  Spotted Plantain, top  and root, green, pounded soft.
  Thorn apple leaves pulverised and prepared as lobelia
f >» foul ulcers.
  Weak lye a little slippery and clear.   Thicken while
boiling with corn  meal.
  White Beans boiled soft are  very discutient,  good in
transferred mumps.
  •VVhite Pine, the inner bark scraped or pounded soft.
  White or yellow pond lily, may be roasted while green,
or pulverised, moisten with the  washes ; good in  scrofula.
  Wild Indigo pulverised and simmered  in  water a few
minutes, or make a strong D.   In either case thicken with
slippery elm.  This is a superior application for  inflamed
tumors and is a powerful anti-septic.
  Yeast thickened with charcoal or smartweed and slip-
pery elm, is also  powerfully anti-septic.
  These should  be judiciously  selected  to  meet the ne-
cessity  of the cases requiring their use.
          DRAUGHTS FOR THE FEET.
Bass wood leaves,          i^-''t leaves,
Black Maple leaves,       Burdock leaves,
Garden  Cabbage leaves,    Garlics pounded soft,
Horse Radish leaves,       Meadow Cabbage leaves,
Mullen leaves,             Mustard Plaster, weak,
Onions roasted or pounded, Plantain leaves pounded,
Scoke roasted, or the leaves, Soft soap and flour, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
09
  The thick part of leaves should be removed,  the part
used made pliable and wilted by the heat of fire or in
warm water.
                   CONSERVES.
Barberry berries,           Blackberries,
Cranberries, either kind,   Grapes,
Lemon juice,              Peaches,
Pie-plant stalks,           Strawberries,
Sweet Elder berries,       Whortleberries.
  The juice of barberry berries, lemon and sweet cldet
berries, can be obtained by mashing and  hard pressure.
The other articles will  require to  be simmered in pure
soft water until they are sufficiently  tender to  have the
juice flow freely when pressed, and this should be accom-
plished with as small a quantity of  water as will effect the
object.   When the  juice is obtained  and  strained clear,
add an equal quantity or more  of pure loaf sugar, and sim-
mer to the consistency of hoifey.  The  barberry,  pie-
plant and sweet elder arc  laxative.   The blackberry  is
good in bowel complaints.  The  cranberry, lemon and
grape are good to mix  with cold water for a drink  in fe-
vers.   The peach and whortleberry possess diuretic prop-
erties.   The strawberry, as well as the other  conserves,
in accordance  with  their medical properties, may be used
to render the taste of medicine more  agreeable, and if ju-
diciously administered,  more efficacious also.

                   INJECTIONS.
  The size of the  syringe should correspond  with the
quantity to be  given.
               ASTRINGENT INJECTION'S.
  An infusion  of  either of the articles of Class G, may be
used, to which a O  or two  of slippery elm may  be added.
This is useful in  dysentery, piles,  &c.
                CATHARTIC INJECTION'S.
  Infuse one O of the best fine cut tobacco in one quart  of
boiling water; after it  is sufficiently  cool,  strain and add 
94
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
slippery ehn or animal oil, or both.  Or, blow the smoke
of two or three pipefuls of tobacco into half a pint or
more of new milk and sweeten with sale molasses. These
injections are for colic and other cases which require im-
mediate action, pin worms, Sic.
  Or to a strong infusion of boneset and lobelia, add an
equal  quantity of molasses and new milk.  To this add
one gill of sweet oil, and two or three drops of croton oil
Administer with a large  syringe, and repeat every hour if
necessary.   Good in strangulated  hernia, Sic.
                 COMMON INJECTION.
  An infusion of boneset or other herbs, milk, Sic, sweet-
ened with molasses.  Soap suds may also be used.
                LAXATIVti  INJECTION.
  Either of  the infusions of Class 17.   Add  blue violet
in powders.   This and the common injection may be used
to move the bowels  of weak  patients, in  cases of piles,
and for children.
               STIMULATING INJECTIONS
  Are  prepared by adding stimulants to any of  the above
named preparations, except  tho cathartic injection,  and
such articles may be used  as  would  be proper at the samo
time to be introduced into  the stomach, such as anodyne,
anti-scrofulous,  anti-spasmodic,  and  nervine  tinctures,
and rheumatic elixir.  Cayenne may also be added, and
in cases of  tenesmus  the  anodyne  drops  are  proper
Oils and slippery elm,  one  or both, may be advantage-
ously employed in most cases.  A solution of salt (brine)
may be employed beneficially in  cases  of inflammation
That injections may be advantageously employed in cases
of disease in the bowels, cannot be questioned by the re-
flecting mind.   It may be necessary to add, that in cases
of extreme debility  of the  bowels, in which  the stomach
cannot bear a sufficient quantity of nourishment to support
the system,  beef tea and other fluid preparations may be
administered in this way, with great benefit to the  lan-
guishing sufferer. 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
95
        PART THIRD.  PHARMACY.

  As a great variety of the recipes contained in this work
are not often required for family use, and can generally bo
obtained when nec.essary, those particularly important to
be kept on hand at all times, will be designated by a *
                     BITTERS.

  Medicines for  bitters should be  pounded  and sifted
through a meal seive before compounding.
               ANTI-DYSPKPTIC BITTERS.*
  Mix well together two parts each of black cohush, In-
dian physic  and mandrake, and one, part each of angelica
or masterwort, black cherry or gentian, boneset and prick-
ly ash bark.  One O  of this compound may be infused in
half a pint of boiling water to be taken in the course of a
day.
  Or add  four D s of the compound to one quart of boil-
ing  water, simmer to a pint, to which add half a pint each
of spirits and sale molasses.  Or if preferred, infuse the
same quantity in one quart of spirits.  Dose, one  O to a
D or more before meals three times a day.
  Good m cases of costivennss,  craving or loss of appe-
tite, and other deranged action of the stomach and bowels.
                  JAUNDICE  BITTERS.
  Mix well together four ounces each  of black cherry,
prickly ash and white ash barks, and infuse the whole in
one gallon of good cider.  Or if preferred, add  the whole
to one gallon of spirits, or prepare it into a gallon of syrup.
Dose, as the stomach can bear before  meals three times a
day.  Good in cases of jaundice, debility, and for a thick
sizy state  of the blood.
  In this compound, Dr. Higbie uses the whitewood  bark
instead of the white ash, and adds four ounces of hops and 
96
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
two each of horse radish roots and mustard seed.  Theso
add much to its stimulating effects.
                 LAXATIVE BITTERS.
  To one quart of rum add one ounce and a half of anise
Beed, one ounce each of aloes and  cinnamon, and  half an
ounce of myrrh.  Keep it in a warm place and shake it
frequently for three or four days, when it will be fit for use.
Dose, a O  to a D or two before meals three times a day.
Good for costiveness, Sic.
           RHEUMATIC  DITTERS.   DR. H1GBIE.
  Add one ounce each  of black cohush, encash roots and
pipsisway to one quart of best brandy.   Shake it often for
five or six days, when it will be  lit. for use.  Dose, a □
to a wine glass full between meals  and at bed time, three
or four times a day.  Goo I in rheumatic affections, numb-
ness of the extremities, Sic.
                STIMULATING  BITTERS.*
  Mix well together four parts of black cohush, two parts
each of angelica, boneset, gentian, meadow cabbage,  pip-
sisway, prickley ash and  whitewood, and one part of cay-
enne.  One O  of this compoun 1 may be infused in  half
a pint of boiling water,  to be taken  in the course of a day ;
but the best mode of preparation for cases generally, is to
infuse four Ds of the compound for fifteen or twenty min-
utes in  a quart of boiling water, strain and add one  pint
best brandy.   Dose, a D or two before meals three times
a day, and  at bed time.   Good in cases of rheumatism,
numbness of the extremities, languor, incubus, Sic, andia
a sovereign remedy for habitual nose bleeding.
                 STOMACHIC BITTERS.
  Mix well together four parts of snake head,  two of
pleurisy root, one of golden seal, and half a  part of cay-
enne.   Infuse a O or two of this compound as the stom-
ach can bear, in half a pint or more  of boiling water, to
be taken through the course of the day ; or, in case of dis-
tress from food, a liberal  dose mny be. taken  either before
or after each meal as shall be found most efficacious. This
medicine gives tone to, and strengthens the stomach,  re- 
MEDICAL B0TANI8T.
9?
lievcs inflammatory action, and assists greatly in cleansing
unhealthy humors from the system.   FourDs of this com-
pound may also be infused in one quart of spirits.   Dose,
a O to a D or two as the stomach can bear, before meals
three times a day.
             TONIC AND NERVINE BITTERS.
  To one quart of  good brandy, add half an ounce  each
of angelica, colic root, ginseng, golden seal, lady-slipper
and white wood.   Shake it  often for three or four days
when it will be  fit for use.  Dose,  one O to a D as the
stomach can bear, before meals three times a day.  Good
in cases  of general and nervous debility and to create an
appetite.
  Note.—Before using tonics, either in bitters or sirups,
the stomach and bowels must be well cleansed,  and es-
pecially  in cases  of long  standing ; otherwise,  debility
and inflammatory action will follow  their use rather than
an- increase  of strength.   In  many cases,  the  simples
named in Class 25, are far  superior to the  use of  com-
pounds for extreme debility.
                   DECOCTIONS.

                CLEANSING  DECOCTION.
  To one gallon of pure soft water, add two ounces each
of guaiac chips, pipsisway and sarsaparilla, and half an
ounce each of liquorice  ball  and sassafras, boil gently or
simmer to two quarts, strain  and add two quarts more of
water, boil gently to one quart  and strain this with the
other decoction, add one pint of molasses and simmer to
three pints.   The whole should be taken between meals
in the course of four or five days, or as the patient can bear.
               DETERGENT DECOCTION.
  Mix well  together two ounces each, of betony and lo-
belia herbs, and one ounce each of bluo violet, gingis and
pleurisy root.   From a small to a large O may be added
     VOL. I.                   7 
93
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
to from half a pint to a pint of boiling water, boil  at least
ten minutes, strain and  use as the stomach can bear
Good to cleanse the blood, and for inflammation  of tho
lungs, &c.
                  TONIC DECOCTION.
   Brown and pulverise dry comlrey root and make it into
coffee.  Add sugar and ere."! m to make it palatable.  Good
for night sweats.  See also sage and white daisy, in Class
25, for the same purpose.
      DROPS, ELIXIRS  AND TINCTURES.

                ALKALINE TINCTURE.
  To one pint of alcohol, add two ounces of salsratus and
shake it often for two or three days, when it will be fitfoi
use.   Good  in  cases  of  saltrheum, scald head,  &c.»—■
Moisten the affected part with it twice a day.
               ANODYNE COUGH DROPS.*
  To a quart of proof spirits, add two ounces  of blood
root and one of opium.  Shake it often  for  a few days
when it will be fit for use.   Dose, six or eight drops, or
as the patient  can bear.   For  some cases  of chronic
cough this is a  superior remedy.
                  ANODYNE DROPS.*
  To one quart of alcohol add one ounce each of angeli-
ca, calamus, camphor, hemlock oil, opium and saffron, the
substances coarsely pulverised.   Shake it often for six or
eight days when it will be fit for use.  Dose, from six to
fifteen or twenty drops in  anodyne or sudorific infusions,
and repeat the dose occasionally as the case may require.
Good to ease pain, promote perspiration, procure sleep,
and relieve a cough.
                 ANODYNE TINCTURE.*
  To four gallons of the best alcohol, (75 to 80 per cent
proof,) add one  pound each of gum guaiac and  hemlock
oil, and  three half pints of a thick extract  of pipsisway 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               99
'K tin can that will hold about five gallons and can be close-
ly corked, is the best article to prepare  it in.  In warm
weather set this in the sun a few hours each day and shake
it thoroughly three or  four times a day, for  six or eight
days, when it  will be fit for use.  When made in  cold
weather, considerable  pains is required  to keep it warm.
It should be set on a  warm stove and  stirred thoroughly
from the bottom with an iron rod, and also shaken several
times a day until the tincture will settle clear and be of a
briliant dark shade.  Dose from J  to a O in twice that
quantity of water  or herb  infusions.   This invaluable
preparation is a remedy for most cases of pain, either in-
ternally or externally, and for stitch or debility of the back
or side, palpitation, chills,  pimpled face, bruises, sprains,
wounds, bites or stings of insects, &c,  and  for poll evil,
hoof ail, wounds, galls, &c, on horses  and cattle.
   After taking and bathing for headache, apply the hand
to the nose while moistened with the drops and inhale the
vapor.  For pimpled face, squeeze out the inspissated flu-
id and  bathe the part  affected two or three times a  day.
   Before bathing externally,  a dose should be taken to
guard  the stomach.  No medicine ever invented will an-
swer as many important purposes as this, and no medicine
 was ever more basely counterfeited by those who appear
to have forgotten the obligation  they are  under, to  do as
they would that others should do unto them.
                ANTI-DYSPEPTIC ELIXIR.
   Make an extract of half a bushel of butternut bark, a
peck of white ash, and one pound each of boneset, mead-
ow cabbage, pleurisy  root and smartweed. When reduced
to two gallons strain, add two quarts of molasses and sim-
mer to six quarts, and when cool add two  quarts gin.
 Dose, one D  more or less, so  as to move the bowels gent-
ly.  Good in cases of costiveness, dyspepsia, and in bil-
 ious affections.
              ANTI-SCROFULOUS TINCTURE.*
   To one gallon of proof spirits, add twelve ounces of lo-
 oelia herb, and two ounces of swamp sassafras coarsely 
100
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 pulverised.  Shake it often for six or eight days, when it
 will be fit for use.   Dose, eight drops to a O as the stom-
 ach can bear.   Good  in cases of cough,  for an emetic,
and for scrofulous affections.
   I treated one case of an adult, in which a single drop of
 this preparation invariably operated as a powerful emetic,
 and caused temporary derangement of mind every time it
 was given, but was nevertheless attended with great benefit.
              ANTI-SPASMODIC  TINCTURE.
   To a quart of alcohol, add one ounce each of cayenne,
lobelia seed, myrrh and lady slipper.  Keep it in a warm
place and shake it often for six or eight days, when  it will
be fit for use.  Dose, six drops to a O as the stomach can
bear, in an  infusion of anodyne  or  sudorific  remedies.
Good in spasmodic  affections, and for female complaints.
See Mothers Guide.
~  Or to a quart of proof spirits, add two ounces of lobelia
herb, and  one  ounce  each of blood root, cayenne and
meadow cabbage, coarsely pulverised.
  *Or to a quart of proof spirits, add one ounce each of blue
sculcap,  lobelia and meadow cabbage seeds, and half an
ounce of cayenne, coarsely pulverised.   These  may be
used as the above, and Dr. Davis assures me that the last,
particularly, possesses superior efficacy in spasmodic  af-
fections.
               ASTHMATIC TINCTURE.*
   To half a pint of  the best rum, add one ounce each  of
camphor and liquorice ball, two drachms of anise seed,
and one drachm each of benzoin gum and opium.   Keep
it  closely  corked and shake it often for five or six days.
when it will be fit for use.  Dose, eight drops to half a O,
or in urgent cases a O may be given.   This is an  inval-
uable remedy for asthma, phthisic, bleeding at the lungs,
cough, and for  toothache, for which  hold some  in the
 mouth a minute or two, and repeat if necessary.
                   BLACK DROPS.
   Mix in  a well glazed stone jar, two quarts  of spirits of
turpentine, and one pound  of sulphur.  Enclose  the  top 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              101
with a tight tin cover having a hole in the  centre to give
vent while heating.   The jar may then be placed  over a
furnace or temporary arch out of doors, and the jar  should
be enclosed in sand or ashes and a fire kept up constantly
until the sulphur is melted, which without close attention
may require three or four days.  Great care is required
that the preparation does not take fire, and when the sul-
phur  is all melted, it is fit for use.   Dose, six to  twelve
drops in new milk.   This is an  invaluable preparation in
cases of catarrh,  female debility, obstructions  of urine,
pain in the breast or side, sore throat caused by cold, Sic.
                BLOOD ROOT TINCTURE.
   To one quart of proof spirits,  add three ounces of blood
root coarsely pulverised.   Dose, six to twelve drops.
                CAMPHORATED  SPIRITS.
   Add an ounce of camphor to half a pint of fourth proof
brandy.  Dose, a few drops in cold water.
                NORTH'S COUGH DROPS.*
   To one quart of proof spirits, add two ounces each of
black cohush and blood root, and half an ounce each of lo-
belia and opium.   Dose, from 8  drops to a O as the case
may require.  Good in cases of cough generally.
                    COUGH DROPS.
   After the anodyne tincture  has been drained  from  the
sediment in the can, add one gallon and a half of the anti-
scrofulous  tincture, and shake it  thoroughly and often for
five or six days, when  it may be allowed to settle for use.
Lose, eight to thirty drops on sugar as occasion may re-
quire, especially at bed time.   This is a valuable remedy
for every description of cough.
                 COMPOUND TINCTURE.
   To one ounce each of asthmatic tincture and mucilage
of gum arabic, (gum arabic dissolved in water,)  add half
an ounce of lobelia tincture, and one  fourth of  an  ounce
each of blood root  tincture  and  tincture of balsam tolu,
(balsam tolu dissolved or cut in alcohol.)  When taken, it
should be well shaken together.   Dose, one O three times 
102
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
a day..  Good for a cough, and especially in cases of bron
ohitis, either acute or chronic.
           DIURETIC DROPS.  DR. BUNNELS.
  To two ounces each of sweet  oil and sweet spirits of
nitre, add one ounce each of balsam copevia and spirits of
turpentine.  Dose, from h to a O  in slippe'ry elm or other
mucilage.  Good to relieve obstructions of urine, scalding
of urine, gleet, leucorrhoea, Sic.
                  DIURETIC  TINCTURE.
  To one quart of  gin, add  two ounces  each of garden
parsley and milkweed roots  coarsely pulverised.
  Or, two ounces each of the berries and bark of the root
of whortle  berries. .
  Or, three ounces of the meats of  pumpion seeds or those
of watermelon bruised:  Good for obstructions of urine, Sic.
                  EMETIC  TINCTURE.
  *To one quart of proof spirits, add two-ounces each of
blood root and lobelia herb.   Dose from Jto a O once in
half an hour.   At the same time make a free use of the in-
fusions named in Class 12.
  Or blood root, lobelia herb and  meadow cabbage, equal,
parts.  Use as above.
  Or, to one quart of spirits, add two ounces each of indi-
an physic and lobelia.  Dose as above.
                ERYSIPELAS TINCTURE.
  To one quart of alcohol,  add three  ounces of swamp
sassafras.  If wanted for immediate use, keep it in a warm
place a few hours.   Good to bathe the part affected in ca-
ses of erysipelas.
                FOXGLOVE TINCTURE.
  To one quart of  gin, add two ounces of  foxglove leaves.
Shake it often for six or eight days, when it may be com-
pounded with blood root tincture equal parts, for diseased
action of the  heart, or used alone for dropsy.  Dose in
aither case from 10 to 30 drops.
                  HEADACHE  DROPS.
  To one gallon of pure  soft water, add  half a pound of 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
103
the green roots of blue flag pounded fine, stir the whole
together nnd strain immediately.   Have every thing readv
for straining before the ioots are put  into the water.  To
the gallon of water thus prepared, add a gallon of good
spirits (brandy is best) and make  it palateable  with loaf
sugar.  Dose, one O  in the morning an hour before break-
fast.   With these drops alone, I have succeeded in curing
many cases of nervous and sick head ache  speedily, and
some of the cases were the worst  of the kind I ever knew.
                 NERVINE  TINCTURE.*
   To one quart of proof brandy, add four ounces of as»3-
fmtida.  Shake it often for a few  days when it will  be fit
for use.   Dovj, for fits in infancy and childhood, from four
:.rrq s to half  a O, aid for nervous irritation in adults, from
mx drops to a small O in warm herb tea.
                 PUNGENT TINCTURE.
   To one quart of alcohol, 'dd three ounces each of cav-
enne and lobelia seed pounded fine.  Shake often for five
or six days, when it will be fit for use.  Good in injections,
liniments,  &c
            RHEUM ATI  rriXIR.   THOMPSON.
   To one gallon of alcoliol or fourth proof brandy, add one
pound of myrrh, and one ounce each of cayenne and cloves.
Shake  it often for six or eight days, when it will be fit for
use.  Dose,  A to a Q
                RHEUMATIC TINCTURE.
   To one pint of best fourth proof brandy, add two ounces
of black cohush, and after it has  stood three or four days,
add one pint of the juice of  scoke  berries.  Shake it fre-
quently for a fewr days, when it will be fit for use.  Dose,
a  D, more or less as the  patient can bear three or four
limes a day,  especially at bed time.  Good in rheumatic
affections and painful menstruation.
   Or to one quart of best rum, add  one gill of mustard
seed, and  one  ounce each of angelica, horse-radish and
prickly ash berries, coarsely pulverised.  Let  it stand in
a  warm  place and shake it often  for a few days.  Dose,
u,  n  or two  before  applying  the rheumatic ointment or 
104
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 liniments, when this  is  most convenient or efficacious,
                 STIMULATING ELIXIR.
   To one gallon of alcohol, add two ounces each of gin-
 gis, gum  guaiac and pyrena roots, one ounce of cayenne,
 ginger and myrrh, and half an ounce of calamus,  cinna-
 mon, cloves and masterwort.  Keep  it in a  warm place,
 closely corked, and shake it often for a few days, when it
 will be fit for use.   Dose, from J to a O  as occasion may
 require, for pain or wind in  the stomach, or to  guard the
 stomach before applying liniments, fomenting applications
 Sic, externally.  An excellent medicine.
                STIMULATING  TINCTURE.
   To one quart of alcohol, add two ounces  of  black co-
 hush, and one each of cayenne and cloves.  Dose,  from
 J to a O  or more.   Good in rheumatic affections, and to
 guard the stomach, &c.
       SWEET TINCTURE OF RHUBARB.  THACHER.
   To five half pints of alcohol, add two ounces each of
 loaf sugar and rhubarb, and one ounce each of anise seed
 and licorice root, coarsely pulverised.   Shake it often for
-six or eight days,  when it will be fit for use.   This is a
 valuable laxative for debilitated patients.  Good carmina-
 tive and tonic.
                 VOLATILE TINCTURE.
   To one quart of alcohol, add six ounces of gum guaiacr
 two of allspice, and three drachms of carbonate of soda.
 Shake it often for six or eight days, when it will be fit for
 use.  Dose, a O or two in sweetened water, wine or sir-
 up.   Good in rheumatic affections and painful menstrua-
 tion.  See Mother's Guide.
                 INFUSIONS.

For Infusions, pound and sift through a meal seive
               ANODVNE INFUSION.*
Mix well together equal parts each of pleurisy root, py- 
                  MEDICAL  BOTANIST.              105

r»ma root, and red raspberry leaves.   Smarlweed may be
substituted for either kind of the roots when they are not
at hand, or the pleurisy root and raspberry leaves may bo
used alone.  Infuse a D  or two in a pint of boiling water
This  is  an  invaluable sweating remedy in cases of pain
caused by taking cold.
                ANTI-BILIOUS INFUSION.
   Mix well  together four ounces each of boneset and pep-
permint, two of  sweet fern, ahd one of salfron.  Inluse  a
O to a D in a pint of boiling water.
  This  may be used freely for bilious affection or acidi-
ty, or in  weak preparation to stop vomiting.  The altera-
tive  cleansing  powders  are frequently used to great ad-
vantage in connection with this medicine.
                  CANKER  INFUSION.
   Make a strong infusion of equal parts each of bramble
bush, bark  of  the root, sage, and the bark of the root ol
witch hazle.  Sweeten with honey, and gargle the mouth
frequently with it.
                 CATHARTIC INFUSION.*
  To half an ounce each  of sage and senna, and a O of
ginger, add  half a pint of boiling water.  Infuse  fifteen
minutes, strain and sweeten with sale molasses.  One halt
or the whole, as the  case may require, may be taken at
a time, and repeated in three or four hours  if necessary
to produce a cathartic operation.  This is a valuable and
cheap cathartic.   Dr. Higbie  recommends it particularly
in canes of headache.  Give it to children  according to
their age.
                   COUGH INFUSION.
  Make  a strong  infusion of catnip, hyssop and maple
lungwort, sweeten with loaf sugar or honey, and dissolve
licorice  ball  in it at  discretion.   Administer as may be
necessary.   Good in deep seated affections of  the lungs.
  Or a strong infusion of catnip and hyssop sweetened with
honey. This will also be more efficacious if a email quan-
utv of licorice be dissolved in it. 
106              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                INFUSION FOR CANCERS.
   Mix well together equal parts each of swamp sassafraa,
witch hazle root bark and yellow dock root, coarsely pul-
verised.   Add a D or two of this compound to a pint of
boiling water, to be taken in the  course of a day,  and use
other detergents alternately with this, three  or four days
each, in cases of cancers.
                DETERGENT INFUSION.
   Mix well together two ounces each of swamp sassafras
and tag alder barks, and one ounce of sassafras bark.  In-.
fuse a O to a D  in half a pint to a pin: of boiling water, to
be taken through the course of the day.   Good to cleanse
the blood from scrofulous and other humors.
                  DIURETIC INFUSION.
  To a  O each of foxglove and spearmint, add half a pint
of boiling water and cover it closely.  Dose, one D once.
in two hours.  Used mostly for dropsy.  For children add.
i a O to  a gill.   Dose, one O  once in  two hours.
           DR. IllGBlE's FEBRIFUGE INFUSION.
   Mix well together coarsely pulverised equal parts each,
of blue  sculcap, boneset, bugle weed,  calaminl,  catnip,
cuckold, pleurisy root, smartweed  and wiile snake root
Infuse one ounce of this compoiHid lor half an hour in one
mnt of water not scalding hot.   This infusion maybe used
freely in all cases which require sweating remedies, and
febrile diseases generally, and to prepa/e the stomach for
the operation of the emetic.  It is also good in cases of
cough, tightness of the lungs, pain in the chest, Sic.
                 SUDORIFIC INFUSION..*
  Mix well .together four ounces  each of peppermint,
pleurisy root and smartweed, and half an ounce  each  of
cayenne, lobelia herb  and saffron.  Infuse a O  to a □  vn
half a pint to a pint of boiling water.  Good in all cases
which require sweating remedies.
             VEGETABLE ANTI-CONVULSIVE.
,  Mix well together four parts each of black cohush, ova
ova and pleurisy root,  and one part of bethroot.   Infuse
?ue C in half a pint of boiling water, and administer one 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
10?
third of a teacupful at a time, as occasion may require.
Good in  all spasmodic affections.  It. may be prepare.:
weaker and used as a nervine.
                   LINIMENTS.

   Liniments should be well shaken together before using
or changing from one  bottle or vial to another, as the parts
of which they are composed separate by standing. They
are to be applied externally to the seat of pain.
                 ANODYNE  LINIMENT.
   To one pint of alcohol, add one ounce each of the oil,
of hemlock, origanum, peppermint, and the pungent tinc-
ture, two ounces of spirits, of turpentine, four  ounces of
soft animal oil, and eight of beel gall.   Good for pain ex-
ternally, rheumatism,  tooth ache, Sic.
                DISCUTIENT LINIMENT.
   To one pint of best alcohol,  add two ounces  of cam-
phor, and J an ounce each of lavender, origanum and pep-
permint oils, and when these are well blended, add twelve
ounces of bittersweet  ointment,  and mix well together by
shaking. Good for inflammations generally, and  particur
larly of the breast.
           GERMAN LINIMENT.  DR. H1GBIE.
   To one pint of alcohol, add two ounces each of British)
oil, camphor, fine castilc soap,  liquid opodeldoc, oil ot
spike and origanum oil.  Good  in rheumatism,  bruises,
sprains, swelled leg, Arc.
                 NERVINE LINIMENT^*
   To two ounces each of pungent  tincture  and spirits of
turpentine, add one ounce each of the oils of hemlock and
origanum, four of soft  animal  oil, and  six of aqua of am-
monia.  Keep it closely corked  and mix well when used.
   Or to two ounces each of the pungent tincture and spirits
af turpentine, add one  ounce each of  the oils of hemlock,,
jngmum, peppermint and tansey, six of 30ft oil, and eights
\ 
106              MEDICAL  BOTANIST.

of aqua of ammonia.  Keep closely corked and mix well
when used.
                     LOTIONS.

                 RHEUMATIC LOTIONS.
  To one pint of fourth proof brandy, add one ounce each
of camphor, the  oil of origanum, and the oil  of spike.
Mix well when used.
  Or to half a pint of alcohol, add two ounces of the pun-
gent tincture,  and one ounce of camphor, and when dis-
solved add one ounce each of the oils of hemlock, tansey,
white cedar and wormwood.  Mix well when used.
  Or to one  quart of alcohol, add one ounce each of the
nils of hemlock, tansey, white cedar and wormwood.  Mix
well when used.
           DR. DAVIs's  RHEUMATIC  LOTION
  To half a pint each of fourth proof brandy and  spirits
of turpentine, add one ounce of sal-ammoniac, and one j
of an ounce of camphor.  Shake it thoroughly when used.
Good externally applied in rheumatic  affections, numbness
or want of action in the extremities,  burns, Sic.  The
stomach should be well guarded before this is applied.
                MEDICAL  BEER.

                 ANTI-BILIOUS BEER.
  Make a strong decoction of equal quantities by weight,
all green or all dry, each of black cherry, boneset, dande-
lion, hops, prickley ash, sweet fern, tag alder, whitewood
and wintergreen, to each gallon of which add one  pint of
molasses, and one gill, more or  less of yeast.  After fer-
mentation  ceases, bottle for use, or at least keep it  closely 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
109'
 secluded from the air.  Dose, a wine glass full, more or
 less as the patient can bear, three or four times a day.
                  CARMINATIVE BEER.
   Make a strong infusion, of angelica, burdock  seed, cat
 foot, chamomile, ginger, hyssop, peony and wintergreen.
 For preparation and use, see anti-bilious beer.
                     COUGH BEER.
   To three quarts  of pure  soft water,  add one quart of
 wheat bran, and half a pint each of honey and tar, and
 simmer it gently for two or three hours  in  a  well glazed
 stone jar, strain and when  blood warm, add half a pint of
 yea.it, and whert the fermentation  ceases, bottle for use.
 Dose, a  D or more as the patient  can bear, three or four
 times a  day.  The slower fermentation is, the  longer beer
 will keep without being stale.
                   DETERGENT  BEER.
   Make a strong  decoction  of  burdock  root,  dandelion,
 hops, pipsisway, sarsaparilla, sassafras, sweet fern, tama-
 rack and wintergreen. See anti-bilious beer for directions
                   DIAPHORETIC BEER.
   Make a strong decoction  of betony,  bittersweet,  blue
 vervine  or boneset, pleurisy root, prickly ash and snake
 head.  For directions see anti-bilious beer.
                   DIURETIC BEER.
   Make  a strong infusion of adder tongue,  brook  lime,
 dwarf elder, hard  root,  knot grass,  masterwort, mother-
 wort and wintergreen.   See anti-bilious beer.
                   LAXATIVE  BEER.
   Make a strong  decoction of black cherry,  dandelion.
 mullin roots, peach leaves,  sweet  elder  bark  and white
 ash.  See anti-bilious beer.
                     SODA BEER.
   To three or four  □ of sweetened water, or an infusion
 of medicine, add | of a  O of tartaric acid, and when dis-
 solved, add a little more  than as much pure soda, stir it
quick and drink it while in  lively effervescence.  Good to
counteract acidity and keep the stomach in a healthy  con-
dition.  Good also against bilious affections. 
110
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
             Beer for a pleasant drink.
   Make a strong  infusion of  comfrey,  hops, pipsisway,
 sarsaparilla, sassafras, sweet fern, wheat bran and winter-
 green.   See anti-bilious beer for preparation.
   Or add one gallon of boiling water to an ounce and  a
 half of ginger,  one  ounce of  cream of tartar, and one
 pound of loaf sugar  in a  well glazed  earthen vessel.—
 When cool, add a D  of yeast, and after fermenting, skim
 and bottle for use.
                  SARSAPARILLA MEAD.
   To one gallon of strong decoction of sarsaparilla, add
 -even pounds of brown sugar,  scald and skim it, and add
 six ounces of tartaric acid.  Dose, 4 □ s or more, to which
 uld a small quantity of soda,  sufficient to  make a lively
 effervescence and drink it immediately.  This is an excel-
 lent preparation  to cleanse the stomach from acidity, Sic,
 and to cleanse the blood from  humors.
   Medical Beers must be used for cases which  require
 their medical qualities. Beer should be fermented in a full
 cask or jug, so that impurities may be thrown off while fer-
 menting, and the bung or cork replaced as  soon as ferment-
 ation ceases, so  as to exclude the  air ; or it  is better to
 put it into strong bottles closely corked and keep them in
a cool place.   A little  experience will soon  enable  any
good house wife  to prepare for  herself or family, such kind
of beer as is best adapted to their necessities.  Wheat bran
and ginger may be used in  any preparation  of  beer  if
 agreeable.
                    OINTMENTS.

   Ointments are soothing, healing, external applications.
                 DISCUTIENT OINTMENT.
   To one pint of pure fresh butter oil,  add half an ounce
• each of the oil of lavender or origanum and the oil of spike,
 snd one O each of bear oil and rattlesnake oil.  Mix thor- 
MEDICAL B0TANI8T.
Ill
' "Highly until cold.  Good for  inflamed eyes, sore throat,
quinsy, rheumatic affections, &c.
   Or. dissolve an ounce Of camphor in an ounce of sweet
oil, add an equal  quantity of bittersweet ointment and mix
well.  Good for  sore throat, rheumatic affections, Sic.
                   HERNIA OINTMENT.
   To one pound  of lard, add a single handful (about half
an ounce,) each Of low mallows,  smooth  plantain leaves,
thyme and white  poplar  bark, all greeh.   Simmer very
slowly until the articles are crisped, and strain for use.
   Or, fry eggs slowly until they are crisped, and catch the
oil in another dish as fast as it separates from the eggs.
No oily substance should be added to the eggs when fried.
Bathe the part over the orifice  twice a day, heat it in with
a hot iron, and keep the breach free from irritation, by  a
truss.   These are said to be never failing remedies in all
curable cases of  rupture.
                    ITCH OINTMENT.
   To two table spoonfulls of fresh butter and one of tar,
add one  □ each of allspice and ginger, and one O each of
black pepper, sulphur  and spirits of turpentine, the. sub-
stances all finely pulverised and  the whole  simmered to-
gether and well mixed.   Good for the itch and inveterate
old sores.
   Or simmer yellow dock roots, in sweet cream, to an oil;
to each gill of which add one Q  of spirits of turpentine
and mix well.  Good for the itch.
              NARCOTIC CANCER OINTMENT.
   To equal quantities of bittersweet and the leaves of ci-
cuta, deadly night shade, house leek and thorn apple,  add
enough of fresh butter to cover the articles in a deep iron
vessel, simmer slowly until they  are crisped, and strain
the ointment  for  use.   Good  for cancers either  in  the
scirrhus or ulcerated state.
              NARCOTIC SPRAIN OINTMENT.
   Make an extract of equal  quantities  each of cicuta
leaves, knotgrass, mayweed and tobacco,  all green,  and 
112
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
equal to which add an equal quantity of lard and simmer
the water out. Good for sprains, windgalls, &c. on horses.
             NERVE  OINTMENT.  THOMPSON'S.
   To two parts of bittersweet and one each of chamomile.
and wrormwood herbs,  add a sufficient quantity of fresh
butter to  cover them, in a deep iron  vessel, simmer slow-
ly until they are crisped and strain for use ; and add one
ounce of spirits of turpentine to each pint  of the ointment.
Good for bruises, calices, contracted cords, sprains, &c.
                RHEUMATIC OINTMENT.
   To half a pint of fresh beef's gall, add ons gill of skunk
oil, half a gill each of spirits of turpentine and  best  rum,
two Dsof neat's foot oil, and one   □ of  rattlesnake oil.
Simmer over gentle heat and stir often for half an hour,
when it will be fit for use.   Bathe the aflected part two or
three times a day and heat it in by the fire, after guarding
the stomach.  See rheumatic tinctures, stimulating bitters,
stimulating elixir, &c.
                SALT RHEUM OINTMENT.
   To three half pints of pure soft water,  add  one pound
each of brook lime green, lard  and tar, and simmer mod-
erately until the herbs are crisped an:! strain for use.   Ap-
ply it to the part aflected two or  three times a day.  Wash
the part affected frequently  in a strong  infusion of brook
lime, and take the same for a constant drink.
                SCALD HEAD OINTMENT.
   The pure  oil of fresh butler  made a little yellow with
muriatic acid. Stir it constantly while pouring in the acid.
Apply cautiously.
   Or, currier's oil  may be used for tho same purpose with-
out the acid.   Apply each at least once  a day until the
cure is effected.
                  SCARETS OINTMENT.
   To one pint of currier's oil, a.id one ounce of verdigris,
and grind them well together on  a paint stcne.   Then add
two  ounces of spirits  of turpentine, and a D of  finely
pulverised salt, and mix well together. A few applications 
                  MEDICAL EOTANIST.               113

of this ointment to inveterate old sores soon disposes them
to heal, when other ointments or salves may be applied.
                      SIMPLES.
  The following may be prepared separately in a deep iron
vessel, with fresh butter or soft ai;ii»nl  oil  sufficient to
cover them and simmered slowly until they  are  crisped,
then strain  and preserve closely corked.
  Bittersweet—Discutient and healing.  Good for inflam-
mation, cancers, Sic.
  House leek—Cooling and healing.  Good for inflamma-
tion, sore eyes, Sic.
  Pilewort — Discutient and healing in case of piles.
  Spotted Plantain—Cooling and  healing  in  scrofulous
ulcers.
  Sweet Clover—Cooling and healing.  Good for inflam-
 ed  eyes, &c.
  Thorn apple leave*—Good for  burns, scirrhus cancer,
piles, Sic.
  Water green—Cooling and healing.  Superior for burns,
piles, Sic.
  White Hellebore—Healing  and discutient.  Good for
the itch and other eruptions.  Use  cautiously.
  White pond lily blossoms—for inflamed eyes, piles,  &c.
  Wild Indigo—Good in scirrhus cancers, mortifying ul-
■cers, &c.
  Yellow Dock—Good for cancers, itch and other humors.
                       PILLS.

                 ANTI-BILIOUS PILLS.*
  Mix well together finely pulverised, two pounds each of
gamboge and mandrake, and one pound each of blood root
and lobelia herb, moisten with warm molasses and make
into common size pills.  Dose, one to eight at bed time,
and one or more in the morning if necessary.  Four is a
common dose for a man, and  three for a woman.  They
     vol. I.                  8 
114              MEDICAL B0TANI8T.
operalo without pain, while they cleanse the stomach and
bowels, and invigorate the system.  Twenty two or three
years ago I  paid Dr. Bunnell eight dollars for this recipe,
and never considered the bargain a poor one.
                  •CATHARTIC  PILLS.
   Mix well  together finely pulverised, one pound each of
aloes and mandrake, half a pound  each of castile soap,
gamboge, jallap and rhubarb, and two ounces each of cay-
enne, cloves and saffron,  moisten with butternut  ex tract
and make common size pills.   Dose, from two to eight at
bed time.
   Or, mix well together finely pulverised, one pound of
socotrine aloes, four ounces each of blood root and jallap,
and two  ounces each of cloves and  saffron, moisten with
molasses and make common size pills.  Dose, four or five
at bed lime.                     #
   Or, mix well together finely pulverised, one pound of
gamboge, half a pound each of aloes and castile soap, four
ounces each of blood root, mandrake atid myrrh, and two
ounces each of camphor and  cayenne,  moisten with  mo-
lasses and make common size pills.   Dose as above.
                ANTI DYSPEPTIC  PILLS.
   Make  a thick extract of one peck each of butternut root
bark and dandelion roots, and half a pound of gentian, and
thicken  it with finely pulverised  powders  of cayenne,
cloves and saffron,equal parts well mixed, and make com-
mon size pills.  Dose, two to eight at bed time; or, they
may be taken  in smaller doses for a number of nights in
succession,  so as to move  the: bowels gently.
                ANTI-DVSENTERIC PILLS.*
   Mix well  together  finely pulverised, two ounces each of
hlood root,  castile soap and  rhubarb, and one of opium,
'moisten with molasses, add a few drops of peppermint oil
;and make it into pills not to exceed one third  of the com-
mon size.   Dose, for an infant j to half a pill, in  child-
hood h to a  whole pill, and for  an adult from  one to two
rpills at intervals from one  to eight hours.  These pills arfi
■invaluable in cases of relax or dysentery. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
US
                   ASTHMATIC PILLS.
   The extract of smartweed made  into pills of common
 r.ize, by  adding  lobelia herb and  meadow cabbage, equal
 parts, finely pulverised  and well mixed.   Dose, two to
 four.  These pills may be taken once or twice a day for a
 considerable  length of time, and arc of great value fox
 asthmatic patients.
             DR. DAVIS'S STOMACHIC PILLS.
   To a thick extract of poplar (either kind) and white-
 wood barks in equal quantities, add  cayenne and lobelia
 herb finely pulverised well mixed, and make common size
 pills.  Dose, from half of one to a whole pill or two, half
 an hour  before each meal,  and  for  distress  from food,
 the same quaruty after each meal. They prevent distress
 from food and gradually cleanse and regulate the stomach
>in cases  of  indigestion.  Excellent in cases of dyspepsia.
                     GALL PILLS.
   Put any quantity of beef gallon new tin or pewter, dry
 it half away in the sun,  or by torrefaction,  then add £ as
 much of peppermint oil, thicken  with finely  pulverised
 loaf sugar and rhubarb equal quantities, and make common
 size pills.  Dose,  one to six,  half an hour before meals
 three times a day.  Good in-costiveness, dyspepsia, &c.
            HVDRAGOGUE CATHARTIC PILLS.
   Absorb two drops  of croton oil in a small piece or crum
 of bread  and make it into four pills.   Dose, one pill once
 an hour until a cathartic operation is produced.  Good in
 dropsy ,and  cases which require immediate action.
   Or, to  two grains by weight of eleterium, add molasses
 sufficient to  moisten, and make four pills of equal size, and
 administer one,  once an  hour or two, until  a cathartic
operation is produced, if the patient  can bear its nausea-
ting effect.  One at bed time may be sufficient.
   Dr. Look  recommends that the eleterium be made into
pills containing only £ of a grain, and for a common dose
give two  as above directed, or at intervals of two or three
or even four  days, as the symptoms appear to require, and
 educe the quantity to  half a pill if necessary.  When 
116
MEDICAL  D0TANIST.
used  in  small  doses, it should be  given with  other ca
thartics.
  As  there are different preparations of the eleterium, of
different strength, the greatest care will be required to se-
lect and use this medicine with safety and success.
            LAXATIVE ANTI-BILIOUS PILLS.
  Make a thick extract of dandelion, thicken it with the
detergent laxative powders, and make common size pills.
Dose, one to six, between meals  twice  a day.  Good in
affections of the liver, jaundice, Sic.
                    OPIUM  PILLS.
  These should not exceed three grains by weight of
moist opium, and never be emploved except when abso-
lutely necessary in cases of pain.
                    PLASTERS.

                  ANODYNE PLASTER.
  To one pound "of gum galbanum, add one ounce of opi-
um, and half an ounce each of camphor, the oil of rose-
mary and sassafras oil.   Pound  the whole together until
well blended,  when it may  be spread even on thin soft
leather.  It is a superior remedy  for bearing down pains,
prolapsus uteri, and for debility of the back, side, &c
           BLACK  STRENGTHENING  PLASTER.
  Boil one pint of tar nearly  thick enough for shoema-
kers wax, then add one ounce each of beeswax and rosin,
and when a little more than blood warm, add one ounce of
pulverised camphor and mix well.   Spread even  on thin
soft  leather  or loaf sugar paper  and apply warm.   Good
for debility, and, for pain  and soreness externally.
  Or, add one. ounce each of bittersweet, house leek,
sweet clover, thorn apple leaves and wild indigo, to two
quarts of best  cider vinegar, in a  well glazed eaithen ves-
sel and keep it in  a warm place until the vinegar has one
half evaporated ;  then strain and add one quart of linseed 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
117
ml and half a pound of red lead.  Simmer over a gentle
heat and stir it constantly until it is sufficiently hard for a
plaster, which may be known by dropping a drop or two on
a smooth board to cool.   When parily cool, add one ounce
and a half of pulverised camphor, mix  well, pour it into
cold water  and work it by pulling and doubling until it be-
comes smooth.
  Or, to one pint each of sweet oil and vinegar,  add  two
ounces of castile soap,  simmer them well together, add
four ounces each of red  and white lead, continue to sim-
mer and stir constantly until it turns a  chocolate color, then
remove it from the fire, continue to  stir it as before and
when partly cool, add one ounce and  a half of fine  cam-
phor, mix well and  work it as above directed.  These are
recommended for inflammation, pain,  Sic.
             DR. HIGBIE'S BLACK PLASTER.
  Melt together one pint of olive oil, an'd  half an  ounce
each of beeswax and rosin, and  when nearly boiling hot,
stir in six ounces of red  lead finely pulverised ;  continue
the heat and stir constantly until the compound  becomes
of a dark brown or  black color ;  then remove it  from the
fire and when nearly cold add one O of fine camphor, and
mix well by stirring.  This should be spread even on thin
soft leather.  Good for cancers, scrofulous  tumors, and
for  sores generally.
              CAUSTIC CANCER  PLASTERS.
  To salts  made of the  inside bark of black ash, add an
equal quantity of pulverised  scoke  root.   Moisten with
water, if necessary, to a proper  consistency.
  Or, to a similar preparation from hickory ashes, add pul-
verised yellow dock root to form  a plaster.
  These must be kept secure from the air and applied as
a plaster.
  Dr. Higbie's Cancer Caustic.—To three ounces of pure
soft water,  add one ounce of green wild turnip bruised fine,
and  half  an ounce of  corrosive sublimate pulverised.
Keep it in a warm place and shake it often for a few days,
then strain  and  it will be fit for  use.  Apply this  every 
118
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 morning and evening around the edge of the cancer wiih
 a feather, wear tho black plaster on the tumor, and, apply
 the mineral wash over the whole  cancer  once or twice a,
 week.   After the cancer is removed  apply the mineral
 wash several times a day and keen the sore shielded from.
 the air  with the black plaster, until it is perfectly sound.
    While pursuing the  above or any other treatment for
 cancers, the  infusion for cancers or other detergents must
 be used constantly.  This course, Dr. Higbie assures me
 will cure most cases of cancers.   See cancers.
   Dr.  Tcnanfs  Cancer Caustic.—To one bushel of yel-
 low ash, and half a bushel  of bayberry  bark,  add one.
 pound of rue  and burn them to ashes in a  clean kettle ;
 leach the ashes carefully with one  gallon of pure soft wa-
 ter, and to the lye add one pound of stone lime and foui
 ounces  of finely pulverised dragons tooth (found under tho
 wild  turnip) and boil down as thick as it can  be applied
 with the top end of a goose quill.
   This, says the  Dr. " is  the best remedy  for cancers ev-
 er discovered," and adds,  " please try it, you who are af-
 flicted with cancer, and  you  will find  that the fields of na-
 ture affords the  means to save you  many an hour of pain.
                    CALL PLASTER.
   Hog's gall absorbed  in white  writing paper  carefully
 dried and laid away  for  use is very healing.  Cut a piece
 the size of  the sore, moisten and apply.
                  MUSTARD PLASTER.
  Make common  paste by adding a sufficient quantity of
flour to a gill of water, and after it has  been thoroughly
cooked  and spread, sprinkle  it over with more or  less pul-.
veriscd  mustard seed.   This plaster is  advantageously
employed to romove  pain locally  seated; or, in case of
excessive vomiting apply  it  over the  pit of the stomach.
It may be kept on until considerable redness i3 produced
                 RHEUMATIC PLASTER.
  Melt together equal  parts each of roll brimstone  and
white pine turpentine^ and. if necessary,, add anima) oil. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
1-rft
sufficient to foim a plaster of proper consistency.  Apply
to the soles of the feet.
  Dr. Higbie recommends  the following.  Melt together
one pound each of rosin and sulphur, add  two ounces of
cayenne, and while  cooling, add one ounce of fine  cam-
phor and mix well.   Apply to  the part affected.   These
should be spread even on thin soft leather.
                  RUPTURE PLASTER.
  A thick extract of white oak bark spread even on firm,
Boft leather, should  be worn over the  orifice under a truss
while using the rupture ointment, until a cure is effected.
              STRENGTHENING PLASTER.*
  Melt together nine ounces of rosin, one ounce and a half
of beeswax, one of mutton tallow, and  half an ounce of
l';ilsam of fir or white pine turpentine.  After it is well blend-
ed, pour it into water and pull  and double until white and
even.  This is superior  to most strengthening plasters,
and is also healing.   All plasters should be  spread even
on thin soft leather  or loaf sugar paper.
                   WHITLOW PLASTER.
   Work together into a plaster equal parts each  of hard
soap, salt, and spirits of turpentine. This should be bound
to the  affected part with Unen cloth and kept moist  with
spirits of turpentine.
   Or simmer together equal parts each of salt,  soft  soap
and  tobacoo,  (fine cut.)
                    POWDERS.

          ALTERATIVE  CLEANSING  POWDERS.*
  Mix well together finely pulverised,  two parts each of
mandrake and meadow cabbage, and one part each of an-
gelica or masterwort, blood root and lobelia herb.   Dose,
from a quantity the size of a wheat  corn to £ a O as the
stomach and  bowels can bear  between meals and at bed
time.  These powders s.hooJkl  not be given in quantities* 
~0              MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 sufficient to have their nauseating effect last to exceed tetl
 or fifteen minutes after each dose.   They may be taken in
 herb tea, coll water, or in honey or molasses.
   For a cough,  add  J a O of these  powders  to  two or
 three Ds of honey or molasses, and  a O or two of bran-
 dy. ■ Mix well and take a little at a time, frequently.   No
 family should be.  without  these  powders, constantly.
          ALTERATIVE DETERGENT POWDERS.
   These powders consist exclusively of finely pulverised
 mandrake root, and are invaluable for cleansing the blood
 from humors, if used so as to effect the stomach or  bowels
 only in a slight degree.   Dose,  from -3'? part to £  a O in
 cold water or detergent infusion  three or four limes a day.
 For children, a quantity  the size of a wheat corn  or two
 will be sufficient, and for infants much less.
              ANTI-CATHARTIC.  POWDERS.
   Mix well together  finely pulverised, one part each of
 allspice and alum root. Dose, one h to a O or two.  Good
to check tho excessive  operation of  physic, and may be
repeated when necessary.   The  anodyne drops or ano-
 dyne tincture should  be added in cases of pain.
                 ANODYNE POWDERS. '
   Mix well together finely pulverised, two ounces  each of
 camphor, cream of  tartar, ginger, pleurisy root and  pyrena
root, one ounce of  blood root, and half an ounce of opium'.
 Dose, from a T'F  to J  a O as the patient can bear once in
four to eight  hours.   Good in all cases of pain,  where
sweating remedies  are required.
              ANODYNE  COUGH POWDERS.
  Mix well together  two parts each of  finely pulverised
blood root and cayenne, and one  part of opium.  These
produce an expectorating, soothing and  stimulating effect.
Dose, a quantify  the size of a  wheat com, or more  as  the
case may require.
                CATHARTIC POWDERS.*
   Mix well together finely pulverised, one  pound of  sen-
na, half a pound each of blue  flag  and jallap, and two oun-
 ces each of cloves  and peppermint.   Dose, one  J  to a O 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               12!
 Or two, in water, sweetened if preferred.   Good  in all
'cases which require cathartic remedies.
                  CANKER  POWDERS.*
   Mix well together finely pulverised, four ounces of wild
 turnip, three of golden seal, and two each of blood root
 and lobelia.   Add one J  a O of this powder to one gill of
 boiling water, sweeten with honey and rinse the  mouth
 frequently with it, and for canker in the stomach swallow
 some.
                    COLIC POWDER.*
   Mix well together finelv pulverised, two parts of colic
 root, and one each of angelica or masterwort, and prickley
 ash berries.   Dose, one  J to a O in hot water sweetened.
 Add also a dose <5f anodyne  tincture.  If  this  does not
 give relief in fifteen minutes,  repeat the dose.
            WARMING COMPOSITION POWDERS.
   Mix well together finely pulverised, one pound of  bay-
 berry, half a pound each of ginger and pleurisy root, and
 one ounce each of cayenne and cloves.   Dose, £ to a O
 in warm water sweetened.  Good in cases of dysentery,
 relax, pain in the stomach or bowels, and for obstructions
 caused by taking cold.
                   COUGH POWDER.
   Mix well tigether finely pulverised, two parts each of
 meadow cabbage, prickley ash berries and smartweed, and
 one part each of black cohush, blood root and lobelia herb.
 Dose, -,',:• to £ a O at bed time in warm herb tea.
           DETERGENT CATHARTIC POWDERS.
   Mix well  together equal  parts of  blue flag, cream of
 tartar and  mandrake finely pulverised.  Dose, one O or
 two in molasses.   Good  as a common  cathartic and in
 dropsies.
           DETERGENT LAXATIVE POWDERS.
   Mix well together finely pulverised, three parts each of
 blood root,  blue flag, mandrake and meadow cabbage, and
 one part of blue violet.   Dose,  J  aO more or less, as
the stomach can bear.   Good to cleanse the blood,  and
for headache,.Sic. 
122
MEDICAL D0TANIST.
                  E.UETIC  POWDERS*
  Mix well together finely pulverised, three  parts of lo-
belia seed, and one of meadow cabbage.   Dose, £ to a O
ur more if necessary.  For further directions see page73
  *Or, one part each  of blood root, ipecac,  lobelia  seed
and meadow cabbage finely pulverised.   Dose,  £ to  a O
or more if necessary.  These powdsrs  may be  added to,
some  of the infusions named on page 73, for that purpose,,
and steeped fifteen or twenty minutes,  and  then slrain^
pweeten and add  peppermint  or other essence to make it
palatable.   One I of this  may be taken once  in five to
ten  minutes after preparing the stomach  as directed on
page  73.
  The first preparation should  always be  preferred in,
cases of great  debility* especially if the  bowels cannot
bear activecathartics.  The emetic tincture should be pre*
ferred for  cases of croup.
                  FEVER POWDERS*
  Anti-Bilious Fever Powders.—Mix well  together fine-
ly pulverised, two parts of mandrake, and  one each of
blood root and cayenne.   Those powders are exceedingly
valuable, and especially in the low stage of fevers, if giv-
en so as to nauseate  the  stomach for a  short time  alter
each dose.  Dose, ^ part to  -]- of a O once in two to four
hours.
  *Or, mix well together finely pulverised, throe parts each
of mandrake and wild turnip,  and one part each of blood
root, lobelia herb  and pleurisy root.  A  quantity of theso
powders half the size of a wheat corn or more, is a supe-
rior preparation  for  worrisome  infants.  The quantity
should be  increased according to age, as the stomach can
bear, and  given onoe in two to four hours.   Good  in all
eases of fever.
  Or, the  gall of  the  rattlesnake absorbed  in pulverised
chalk.  Dose, the size of a wheat corn or two, once it\
four to six  hours.  It should be shaved or grated  fine when,
vised.
   WesXviCs Fever Powders arc composed of three  parts 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
12?
of finely pulverised lobelia seed,  two of blood  root, and
one each of camphor and myrrh,  well mixed.   Dose, as
the stomach can bear as above directed.
   Fever Powders, like all other medicines, must be ad-.
ministered at longer or shorter intervals according to the
symptoms.
          DR. GILPIN'S  CATHARTIC  POWDERS.
   Four parts each of blue violet arid  mandrake, and one
part of lobelia herb, finely pulverised  and well mixed.
Dose, one O.  This  is said to have been  the  doctor's
main dependence  in bilious colic.   •
                 LAXATIVE  POWDERS.
   Mix well together four ounces  each of magnesia and
rhubarb, and  two  each of ginger and super  carbonate of
soda all in fine powders.   Dose, £ to a O in molasses at
bed time.
   *()r,. equal parts of rhubarb-nd soda, or saleeratus. Take
a small O in a little  cold water every morning.
                   NERVE POWDERS.
   Anodyne and Tonic Nerve Powder.—Mix well together
two pans of lady  slipper,  and  one part each of angelica.
colic  root and ginseng.   Good  in  cases of general, and
nervous debility.   See also  class 20.
   Anti-Dyspeptic  Nerve Powders -^-Mix well  together
one part each of  blue flag and  meadow  cabbage  roots
finely pulverised.   Good in  dyspepsia, attended with dis.-
tress after meals,  nervous debility,  &c.
   Astringent and Tonic Nerve Powder.—Mix  well  to
gether finely pulverised equal  parts each of alum  root,
colic root and evans root.  Good in nervous debility, par-
ticularly for females.  See Mother's Guide.
   Sedative Nerve Powders.—Mix well together finely
pulverised, two parts of meadow cabbage root,  and one.
part of pleurisy root.  The  meadow cabbage may be used]
alone when  the  other is not  at  hand.   Nerve powders
should usually be  taken  at. bed time,  but may be  taken al
any lime when necessary to  quiet  and strengthen ths
nerves.  Dose, of either kind from £ lo ^ of a O  in warai,
■water or herb tea,. 
124
MEDICAL E0TANI8T.
              DR, HIGBIE'S TONIC POWDERS.
  Mix well together finely pulverised, lour ounces each of
loaf sugar and  white poplar hark, two ounces each of black
snake root and rhubarb, and a large O of cayenne.^ Dose,
one O in hot water or herb  tea before meals.   Good in
cases of  dyspepsia, water brash, weakness of the stom-
ach,  want of appetite, obstructions of the liver, and for cold
hands and feet.
                   TOOTH POWDERS.
  Mix vvcll together finely pulwrised, equal parts each of
bayberry and charcoal,'and rub the teeth thoroughly with
it after each meal, or more especially  every morning.  If
one J to  £ a O of this powder be taken two or three times)
a day it will remove the cause of offensive breath.
  lor tooth powders,  Dr.  Higbie  recommends  two parts
each of bayberry and  pumice stone, arid one part of myrrh
pulverised'and well mixed.  This is  used only as an  ap-
plication  to the teeth as above directed.
         DR.  WARD'S ANTI-DYSENTERIC POWDERS.
  Mix well together finely pulverised, four ounces of loaf
sugar, and one ounce each of allspice, cinnamon, rhubarb,
and salanatus.   Dose, one i  to a O as the case  may re-
quire ; or, add half a  pint of  boiling water  to a D or two
of this compound, and let it  stand in  a warm place fifteen
or twenty minutes, and after it settles clear,  administer  a
 :j onco in twenty or thirty minutes, until relief be obtain-
ed, after  which this or the anti-dysenteric pills  should be
administered  two or three times a day until  a cure is ef-
fected.   Good in all cases of diarrhu-a or dysentery.  In
chronic cases  add  two D s of brandy to  the infusion.
                  URINARY POWDERS.
  Mix well together finely pulverised, equal parts each of
loaf sugar an 1 rosin.   Dose, one O at bed time for a few
nights in succession.
                 VERMIFUGE FOWDER8*
   Mix well together  finely pulverised, equal parts each  of
bogvein, gentian,  Indian hemp, and oak of Jerusalem. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
125
Doge, -J- to a O according to age, in molasses at bed tiron
and between meals.
  While using these powders, a cathartic dose  of man-
drake should be given onco in four or  five days.  Other
cathartics may be used  when these are not at hand.
             YELLOW  CATHARTIC POWDERS.
  Mix well together four parts of gamboge, two parts each
of alces, indian physic and  myrrh, and one part each of
camphor, cayenne, cream of tartar and mandrake. Dose,
i to a O at bed time and in tho morning if necessary.
  As this is exceedingly powerful, it must  be  cautiously
employed.   It is particularly valuable as a hydragogue
cathartic.
                      SALVES.

                   DRAWING SALVE.*
   Melt together ove. a gentle heat,  two parts of  mutton
tallow, and one part each of beeswax and marrow of hogs
jaw.  This may be spread  even on thick linen cloth and
applied to the? part aflected.   Good for  ague in the breast
or face, and for piles, &c.
                    EASING SALVE.
   Simmer togcthor for forty-eight hours over a gentle heat,
equal parts each of lard and rosin.   Be  careful  that it
docs not scorch while heating.  This  salve possesses su-
perior soothing and healing properties.
                      EVE SALVE.
   To any quantity of the easing salve, add a sufficient
quantity  of sweet cream to make as much  oil as there is
of the salve,  and  simmer it until tho watery part has evap-
orated and strain  for use. This salve should be kept close-
ly corked and may be applied to the eye balls or eye lids,
and is of great value in many cases of diseased eyes.
                   HEALING SALVE.*
   Melt together one pound each of bees-wax, mutton tal- 
136
MEDICXL E0TANIS*.
 low and rosin, and one pint of raw linseed oil.  Good for
 inflammation and is very healing.   Good lor piles.
   Or, to one pint of sharp vinegar in a well glazed earthen
 vessel, add two ounces of good fine cut tobacco, and keep
 it in a moderate  heat three or  four hours,  then strain and
 add two ounces each of  bees-wax,  lard and rosin.  Melt
 together and let the watery part  evaporate  in  moderate
 heat.  Gleansing and healing.
   Or, boil three ounces of good tobacco in  one quart of
 pure soft water until the strength  is out,  strain and add
 one quart of  soft anim*! oil, and,  alter simmering the wa-
ter out add eight ounces  of rosi:i, fi ur  of bees-wax, and
 ■while cooling, add  four ounces of finely pulverised cam-
 phor  and mix well.   Good for inflammation and is cleans-
 ing and healing.
   Or, simmer together for six hours  without  scorching^
 equal quantities each of  bees-wax,  lard and rosin.
   Or, simmer and stir  often for  four  hours  over a gentle
 heat, six ounces of rosin,  and two ounces each  of bees-
 wax and fresh butter, and while cooling add an ounce of
 halsam of fir.  Mix well.   Healipg.
                    GREEN SALVE.
   Simmer in lard  a sufficient quantity of fresh water
 green, until it is crisped, to  make an ointment of  a hand-
 some green  color.  This I am credibly informed, is a
 salve of great value for burns, inflamed  eyes, and for  the
 piles.
            SIMPLES FOR INDOLENT ULCERS.
   Beat a sufficient quantity of fine salt with the yolk of a
 hen's egg to  form a salve or pkster.  Good application to
 indolent sores, cancers, '&c.
   The extract of blood beet is highly  recommended for
 indolent sores.  It is said to be  very  severe at first,  but
 soon ceases to afflict.
   The inspissated  juice of bloot root,  is highly recom-
 mended  for rose cancers, and is said to be a superior rem-
 edy for pungus flesh. 
MEDICAL BOTANtST.
12?
   The inspissated juice of scoke berries or of the leaves^
is highly extolled for cancers and other foul ulcers.
   The inspissated juice of the wood sorrel, is recommend-
ed for the same purpose.
   An extract  of wild  indigo made into salve, by adding
•an equal quantity each of bees-wax, and deer or mutton
•tallow, and simmer the water out, is good for cancers and
foul or mortifying ulcers.
   The juices should be inspissated on pewter or new tift
-in tho heat of the sun,or otherwise bya steady gentle heat.
                       SIRUPS.

   Medicines for Sirups  should  be dried and  bruised, ot
 coarsely pulverised.
            ALTERATIVE DETERGENT SIRUP.
   To three ounces each of blue flag,  guaiac  chips and
 sarsaparilla, one ounce of prickley ash, half an ounce of
 liquorice ball and  sassafras, and half a O of thorn apple
 seeds, add  one gallon  of pure soft water,  boil gently or
 simmer to one quart and strain.   Add two quarts more of
 water, simmer  again to one quart and strain this with the
 other decoction, to which add one pint of sale molasses
 and simmer to one quart.  Dose, one O to a □ or more as
 the patient can hear.   Should this medicine affect the
 eyes  by dilatingthe pupil or otherwise, it should be dis-
•continued while-other detergents are used for a few days,
            ANTI-DYSPEPTIC  AND TONIC SIRUP.
   To one quart of rum, add  two  ounces of ginger, and
'one ounce each of  aloes, anise seed, golden  seal, liquorice
hall, orange  peel and rhubarb.  Keep it in a warm  place
 and shake it often for  six or eight days ; then add one
•<juart of pure soft water  and two  pounds of loaf sugar.
   Or, to two quarts of rum, add two ounces of ginger, and
 one ounce each of anise seed, golden seal, Indian physic,
 orange peel aud rhubarb.  Keep it in a warm place and 
128
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 shake it often for six or eight days, then strain and add one
 pint of pure soft water to the dregs and strain  it in with
 the spirits, and then add  two or threo pounds of loaf su-
 gar and mix well.  Dose, one  D or more as the stomach
 can bear before meals three times a day.   Good  in cases
 of dyspepsia, general debility, Sic.
         ANTI-BILIOUS  AND RESTORATIVE SIRUP.
   Make  an extract  of equal quantities each of  boneset,
 dandelion, smartweed,  white ash and whitewood, to each
 quart  of  which add half a pint or  more of spirits, and  a
 pound or more of loaf  sugar.   Do^se, one □  more or less
 as the stomach and system can bear, before meals.  Good
 in bilious complaints and particularly as a restorative.
                  ANTI-BILIOUS  SIRUP.
   Make  a strong decoction of dandelion, hops and white-
 ash, to each quart of which, add half a pint  each of spir-
 its and molasses. Dose, a  D or two between  meals. Good
 after cleansing  the stomach and bowels  in  bilious com-
 plaints.
            BUCK'S STRENGTHENING SIRUP.
   To one pint of the best  brandy, add two ounces of cin-
 namon, one of cloves, and one nutmeg, skake it often for
 three  or four days and add one pint of pure soft  water in
 which one pound of loaf sugar has been dissolved. Dose,
one D more or less an hour before meals.
                    CANKER SIRUP.
  Add one quart of boiling water to two ounces of blue
 flag root  and simmer to one pint, strain and add  one pint
of sale molasses and  simmer to three half pints.  Dose,
 one O to a D half an hour before meals.   Good  in  cases
 of canker and to regulate the bowels in costivencss.
            COMPOUND SIRUP  OF WA-AHOO.
  Make an extract of  wa-ahoo root bark two parts, and
one part each of boneset, hoarhound, pipsisway and smart-
 weed, add an equal quantity of honey,  scald  and skim it
 when it will be ready for  use.   Dose, one O to a D or
 more.  Good in affections of the lungs, and  to remove
 costivenees. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              129
                    COUGH SIRUPS.
   To two quarts of water, add one pound of meadow cab-
 bage, and half a pound of wild turnir', both green and well
 cleansed, and half an ounce each of catnip and hoarhound
 herbs dry and stripped  from the  stalks,  simmer to one
 pint, strain and add two pounds of honey, scald and skim
 it, and when cool  add half a pint  of  gin or rum.  Dose,
 one O to a □ night and morning.
 •  Or, slice a large onion into one gill  each of honey or
 molasses, spirits and vinegar, and simmer until the onion
 is cooked.  Dose, one O as the case  may require.
   Or. add two  ounces of meadow  cabbage and  one  of
 wild turnip coarsely pulverised,  to  one quart of boiling
 water, simmer to a pint, strain and add slippery elm bark
 finely pulverised, sufficient to form a  mucilage, to which
 add one pound of honey, an ounce each of anti-scrofulous
 tincture and tincture of blood root, and make the whole
 palatably sour with  the lemon  conserve.   Dose, a O  or
 more as the case may require.
   Or, to one  D and a half of crawley root, add two gills of
boiling water and one gill of vinegar,  simmer  to  half a
pint, strain and add one gill of honey  or its  equivalent in
loaf sugar. Dose, one O or more, as occasion may require.
   Or, simmer together for three  or four hours in a well
 glazed earthen vessel, one pint of old  rum  and one pound
of loaf sugar.  Dose, one O or more as the  case may re-
quire.  This is particularly for chronic cough.
   Or, add to one quart of boiling  water, half an  ounce
each of gum arabic, hoarhound and liquorice ball, simmer
slowly until the gum  is dissolved, strain and add one pint
of honey or molasses, and simmer to three half pints.
Dose, one O or more as  the case may require.
                  DETERGENT SIRUP.
   To three quarts of the saw dust or chips of the heart
of iron wood, add  three gallons of pure soft water, boil
gently or simmer half away, strain and add to the decoc-
tion a handful each of burdock root, gentian and sarsapa-
nlla, and after simmering to two quarts, strain and add one
    vol.  1.              9 
130
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
quart of gin.  Dose, one O to a wine  glass  full,  as fh?
stomach can  bear, an  hour I:elore meals, three times a
day.  Good to clrar.se the  blood from humors in cases of1
fever sore, &.c.   For a fever sole, while taking the  above,
use  the following wash.   Add  a  D of  lino  verdigris to
one quart of  sharp vinegar, and bathe  the aflected  part
with it three or lour times a day.
                   mi. in'no sir ;p.
  Make a strong decoction of equal parts each of dwarf
elder, milkweed, queen t»f the meadow  and  rush,  or of
queen of the meat'ow,  scotch cap  leaves, whortleberries
and wintergreen, or of  whortleberries and the hark of the
root of the bush and  wmteigreei', to each quart of either
add three gills of best  gin and n ake them palatable with
loaf sugar.
           EXPECTORANT AND TONIC SIRUP.
  Simmer the strength out of one ounce each  of bayberry,
comfrey, hyssop, white pine, an.! while  wood barks, and
one fourth of an ounce  oi  I,low.! root, strain and simmer to
one pint, to which add one pound of loaf stigar, half a pint
of best gin, ami  one  ounce oi' pulverised peach pitts.—
Dose, one lofour Dsas the patient can bear three or four
times a day.  Good in  cases of debility  attended  with a
cough.
  Or, mix well together en arsi ly pulverised half a pound
each of bittersweet,  boneset, bugle weed,  chamomile,
white poplar  root baik  and wormwood, and one ounce of
cayenne.  Add three i/.inccs of this compound  to  one
quart of boiling water, simtiier  lowly to one  pint,  strain
and add half a pint ol brands, and make it palatable with
loaf  sugar.   Dose, a   % to a D or more as the patient can
bear before meals   Geo:! in cases of diarrhea or dysen-
tery, indigestion, bilious alloc;ions, alow state of the blood
and for pain in the ch<-st. side, Ac.
                    I'OIM'V SIIMJP.
  Add one pound of  the capsules of poppies  to six quarts
of water, boil to two quarts, st.ain through a thick linen
cloth and press out all  the. ji..„o ; then simmer the  decoc- 
K: DICAL BOTANIST.
1S1
Tion to one pint,  strain again while hot and  let  it stand
twelve hours to'settle.   Then simmer  the  clear  liquor to
half a pint and add all the  loaf sugar that will dissolve.
This is a valuable pre;) intiri especially for children, and
possesses less of the narcotic  properties of tho poppy
than any preparation of opium  equally anodyne.   Dose,
in infancy and childhood from a lew drops to J a O, and
for an adult from a O  to a  □ or two  may  sometimes be
employed.  This sirup should be  kept in  a  cool place to
prevent formen'ation.
            RESTORATIVE SIRUP.   THOMPSON.
   To two quarts boiling wa'er, add four  ounces each of
bayberry and poplar barks, simmer to one quart, strain and
add one quart ber>t brandy, a pound and a  half of loaf su-
gar, and two ounces of ;'eac!i pitts or the meats of cherry
Stones pounded fine.   .Mix well.   Dose, one to  four Ds
three or  four times  a day  as the  case may  require.  A
good restorative for female debility and for cases of dys-
entery, relax, Sic.
   Or, add one pound au.l a half of peach pitts,  and four oun-
ces of myrrh pounded fine,  tn two quarts of  best, brandy,
and shake it often six  or ci;>ht. ('ays when it maybe added
to a decoction  prepared by  adding eight ounces each of
alum root, bayberry and chamomile, to two gallons of boil-
ing water, simmer slowly to one. gallon, press out.the*in-
fusion to which add tho tincture and strain  as before, and
make it palatable with loaf sugar.    Dmo,.onc O to a G or
more before meals.  Good in all cases of debility, and es-
pecially female debility, faintness,  Sic.  Dr. liigbie.
        DR. IUGBIE's HEAL I H RESTORATIVE SIRUP.
   To two gallons of mire water, add four ounces of angel-
ica, bittersweet, bonesjt, chamomile, clivers,  and yellow
dock, and simmer slowly to one gallon, press out the in-
fusion, add to it-one quart of sale molasses, four ounces of
"butternut extract, and  simmer to three quarts.   When cool
add one qaart of best Man ly, gin or rum, and four ounces
each of cayenne, golden seal, Indian physic and lady slip-
per, finely pulverised.   Let it stand in a warm place and 
132              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 shake it often for eight or ten days when it may stand and
 settle for use.   Dose, one D less or more as the case may
 require, so as to move the bowels gently, and a  quantity
 sufficient to operate as a cathartic may be safely adminis-
 tered.   Good in cases of debility, indigestion and cos-
 tiveness, and to promote the appetite.
                  RHEUMATIC SIRUP.
  Make one quart of  extract, of one peck  of tamarack
 bark, and one pound each of black cohush  and  mea*dow
 cabbage, all fresh, and add to it  one pint of best  fourth
 proof brandy, and two pounds of loaf sugar.  Dose, a D
 or more as the patient can bear.  While using this, phys-
 ic often.
                   RHUBARB SIRUP.
  To one quart of water, add one ounce of rhubarb,  and
 two drachms each of  cinnamon and super carbonate of
 soda, simmer to one pint,  strain and sweeten  with loaf su-
 gar.   Half a pint of best brandy may be  added, when  this
 is to be  used in the absence of fever or inflammatory ex-
 citement.  Or, if prepared for immediate  use in the acute
 stage ol disease, it may be  used without the brandy, or,
 at most, with but a small portion.   Good  in cases  of acid-
 ity of the stomach, dysentery, relax, Sic.
             DR. MIGBIE's STYPTIC  SIRUP.
  To two quarts of pure soft water, add one ounce each of
 alum root, belli root, bugle weed, fleabane and yarrow.—
 Simmer slowly to one  quart, strain and add half  a  pound
 or more of loaf sugar, and half a pint of the  best brandy.
 Dose, from one to four Ds as the symptoms may require.
 Good in cases of bleeding at the lungs or stomach, and for
 uterine  hemorrhage.
  Or, to one quart of water, add one ounce each of  bugle
weed, mountain marigold, tag alder and yarrow.   Simmer
until the strength is out, then strain, sweeten with-loaf su-
 gar,  and add half a pint of brandy.   Dose,  from one to
 three Ds three or four times a day.   Good against inter-
 nal hemorrhage either from the lungs, stomach or uterus.
  Other articles of class  23 may be prepared in sirup as 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
133
convenience or necessity may require,  by observing pro-
portion, &c.
               VEGETABLE RESTORATIVE.
  Mix well together four parts  each of boneset, gentian
and white wood, and one part of golden  seal.   To two D s
of this compound add three gills of boiling water, keep it
in a warm place fifteen or twenty minutes, strain and add
half a pound of loaf sugar and half a pint  of best brandy.
Dose, one O to a D or more two  or  three times  a day.
This is an invaluable medicine in all cases which require
restoratives.
                    DEMULCENTS.
  Simmer onions in pig foot oil, until the  onions are thor-
oughly cooked and press out the oil for  use.  Good in rat-
tles.  Dose, £  to a O.
  Simmer together until they are well blended, equal parts
each of brandy, loaf sugar and spermaceti.  Good in cases
of cough.  Dose, a O or more.
  Or, simmer  together as above directed,  one part each of
loaf sugar, spermaceti and  sweet oil.   Good in cases  of
cough.  Dose, one O or more.
  Or, scorch and grind flax seed as coffee is prepared for
table use, and  mix it  with an equal quantity of strained
honey.  Dose, 1 to J a O.
  Or, equal parts each of gin,  honey and  linseed  oil.—
Dose, a O.
  These  are invaluable remedies in many  cases of  cough,
asthmatic affections, &c, and may always be administered
with safety.
  Medicines for cough  must be employed as the case
may require, but should be taken particularly at bed time,
and generally, also early  in the morning.
• 
F34              MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
             PROMISCUOUS RECIPES,

                  CAMPHORATED  OIL.
   Mix equal  parts each of camphor ml sweet oil in a via*'
 closely corked, and lot it stand until  the camphor is dis-
 solved.  Good external appliea.i jh in cases of sore throat,
 pain in the ear, Sic.
                  MEDICAL PORRIDGE.
   To one □  of finely pulverised wild turnip, add two Da
 of cold water, and beat them thoroughly together and then
 stir it constantly while half a pint, of boiling water is grad-
 ually added.  Dose., one D or  more,  once  in  fifteen  or
 twenty minutes,  until a five-  perspiration is produced.—
 This, by some, is highly rocomuie.ided as a sweating rem-
 edy in cases of pleurisy, inflammation of  the  lungs, &c.
                 CATHARTIC MIX 1TRK.
   Mix well equal parts each of castor  oil and  spirits of
 turpentine.   Dose, one O. to a □ or mire, as the case may
 require.   Repeat if necessary.  Goo 1 in oases of worms.
 For common  cathartic, add  one ounce  of  the turpentine
 to three of castor oil.   Dose as il-ove.
                     opodeldo:;.
   To half a pint of alcohol, add one ounce  each of a-a-v
 ammonia, camphor,  the oils of or':"..-urn  and  rosemary,
and one or two ounces (as von wi-a 'o have it more or less
hard) of fine  castile soap, and  mix wo 11 together. Good
 externally for pain.
                 FOR INFLAMMATION.
  Moisten blue clay with vinegar or water and apply as  a
poultice.  Change often.
                  CATHARTIC i ILLS'.
  Mix well together f'neiv out.''-sad, eight ounces each
of gamboge and mandrake, two of Mood  root,  and  one
each of black cohush an t : >  , lia seed,  moisten with mo-
lasses and make; cona m sizt- i ■ Is.  Dose, two or more
at night and one or :n. •  - ,! c kj. nitij; as tlm case may
require.  These pih>     rjcoMinaadiid to be used in ca-
ses of bloating. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
135
            SOAP  SALVE FOR  FEVER SORE.
  To one quart, of good old con mon soap, add four oun-
ces of finely pulverised alum ai d half a pint of best rum ;
mix the whole  thoroughly together and let it. stand in a
warm place six or ei^ht days, when a skum will cover the
top    This should  be removed, when the remainder will
be fit for use.   This is  recommended  to be applied as a
salve  to the sore and to  bo diluted with soft water for a
wash and to syringe the sore with.  It is also recommend-
ed that detergents  ba freely used and the above  applica-
tion continued until the diseased  part becomes sound.
      TO PURIFY WHISKEY  I OR MEDICAL PURPOSES.
  To thirty two gallons of good proof whiskey  in a forty
gallon cask, add one gallon of thick apple  molasses  and
shake it often and thoroughly for a week or two when it
may be  allowed to settle.  It should then be drawn  from
the  sediment which will be found a  corrupt  mass, the
cask carefully rinsed and the spirits returned,  ll' it be
permitted to stand a few years it will be superior to most
kinds of spirits for medical purposes.
                      EVE WATER.
  Beat  the whites of twelve eggs to a froth, and add this
and two ounces of sugar of lead, and one ounce of white
vitriol to two quarts of  pure soft water, and  bake  it in an
oven for thirty minutes, then strain clear when it will be fit
for  use.   It may  require reducing.  This  is a  valuable
remedy for most cases  of common  sore eyes,
                   SALINE MIXTURE.
  •To one quart of best vinegar, add three ounces of pure
salt, and one ounce of  cayenne.   Dose, one O toa D as
occasion may require.  Good in  cases of cholera morbus,
dysentery, relax, Sic.
                   COL'GH MIXTURE.
  Beat well together until thoroughly  mixed,  the yolk of
three hens eggs,  three D of  honey, and one of  tar,  and
add the whole to one  pint of good currant or other pure
 wine and shake well.  Dose, one O three or four times &
(Jay, for cases of  chronic cough, &c. 
136              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
           Dr. Davis's Promiscuous Recipes.

            COMPOUND OIL  OF WORM SEED.
  Put into an ounce vial one O each of the oil of turpen-
tine and oil of worm seed, and fill the vial  with castor
oil.   It must be warmed and shaken  when used.  Dose,
one O for a child two years old to be repeated once in
two or three hours until a thorough cathartic operation is
produced.  More or less  should be administered accord-
ing to age.   It may be administered alone  or in molasses,
and repeated the next day in obstinate cases.
                COMPOUND OIL OF TAR.
  Mix well together equal quantities of the oil  of tar and
blood root, and mix well by shaking.   Dose, ten to twen-
ty drops on sugar or in sweet milk before meals.  Good in
cases of  cough, pain  in the breast, side, &c. in the ab-
sence of  febrile excitement.   The oil may be  taken aionc
in the same quantity and for the same purposes.
                 DETERGENT  GARGLE.
  To half a pint of boiling water, add one  O each of cay-
enne and pure salt, and J a O of blood  root  pulverised;
steep a few minutes and  add two or  three D  of vinegar,
and sweeten well with loaf sugar, or, preferably with  hon-
ey.   Dose, half a D to a  □ to be repeated every hour or
two as the case may require.   Good in cases of sore throat
erysipelas, scarlet fever, and  bronchial affections.
                   HONEY BALSAM.
  To two ounces of best  alcohol, add one ounce of the oil
of fir, shake the articles thoroughly and add the whole* to
three ounces of honey and shake well when used.  Dose,
one § to a O  two or three times a day.  Good particular-
ly in cases of  chronic cough, pain in the breast, side,  Sic.

     Promiscuous Recipes furnished by Dr. Higbie.

                     EYE WATER.
  To one quart of pure soft water boiling hot, add one O
each of good gun powder, sugar of lead, and white vitriol, 
M3DICAL BOTANIST.
137
and let it stand for a few days in a warm place, then strain
and filter through  paper,  add one O of laudanum (tinc-
ture of opium in spirits) and it will be fit for use.  Apply
this several times  a day with a piece of linen wet in it,
and occasionally put a little into the outer corner of the eye.
                   TO  STOP VOMITING.
   A dijbp  or two of the oil or a few drops of the essence
of spearmint on loaf sugar, or an  infusion of the  herb is
very good.  Brandy sling, chicken  broth,  and coffee  of
burnt corn  are also good.   A drop or two of the oil of mar-
joram on sugar, will seldom fail.
                   FOR A WHITLOW.
   Soak the part in weak lye as hot as it can be borne for
half an hour, and then poultice with sweet cream and flour
made into a paste  and change often.  Superior.
                      FOR BURNS.
   Saturate cotton  in a strong solution  of  copperas  and
bind it to the affected part.  This is an  excellent remedy.
                  FOR BILIOUS COLIC.
   .Make a  very strong decoction of angelica and butternut
root bark, sweeten with molasses, and add a little  spirits.
Dose, a wine glass full once in fifteen  minutes  until  re-
lief be obtained.
                     FOR CANKER.
   To half a pound of the oil of fresh butter, add one ounce
each of alum, borax, loaf sugar, and saffron, and two nut-
megs, all finely  pulverised  and well  mixed,  (rood for
canker in the mouth, and if necessary, it may be taken into
the stomach a little at a time.
                OINTMENT FOR BURNS.
   Melt together equal parts each of beeswax and burgun-
dy pitch, and add sweet oil to make  it of proper consist-
ency.  Apply this freely to a burn and it will soon ease
the pain.   It is also good  for chafes, chilblains, cuts,  Sic.
                   MINERAL WASH.
   Mix well together finely pulverised, one ounce each of
burned copperas and white vitrol, and one  □ of gun pow-
der.   Add  a heaping D of this compound to one quart of 
133
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
pure soft water.   Keep it in a warm  place and shake it of-
ten for a fort* days, wluoi  it will be tit for use.  Good far*'
all kinds of  chafes,  galls, sores  and  ulcers  on manor
beast.   Apply freely when necessary.
              LINIMENT  FO.'{  BURNS, &C
  To one pint of best alcohol, add four ounces of fino
castilc soap, three gills of spirits of turpentine,  and one
ounce of fine camphor.   Keep it  in a warm  place and
shake it often until tho articles arc well blended, when it
will be  fit for use.  Apply this to a burn  by saturating
cotton in it, and bind  it to tha  part affected.   Good also
for wounds from glass, nails, thorns, &c.,unJ for the bites
or stings of  all kinds of  insects.
                    FOR  DIARRHOEA.
  Steep for  fifteen or twenty minutes one O of fine gin-
ger in one gill of boiling water, and when cool, add one
O of camphorated, spirits, sweeten  with loaf sugar and
take the whole at a time.   This may be repeated, if neces-
sary two or three times a day.   Children and youth should
take less according to their age.
          FOR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.
  To half a pint of boiling water, add  half an ounce each
of anise seed and senna.   Steep it moderately for half an
hour, strain and while, warm, dissolve two ounces of man-
na in the infusion.  This  is a portion for an adult and may
be repeated if necessary, once  in three or four davs until
a cure is effected.  This possesses cathartic  and diuretic
properties.
                 FOR AGUE AND FEVER.
  To one quart of boiling w,,tur, add one ounce and a half
of peruvian bark  and one ounce  of  Virginia  snake  root,
simmer to a pint, strain and simmer to  half a pint. When
cool, add one pint best gin, in  which one ounce of cam-
phor has been dissolved, shake it well  together and it will
be fit for use.  Dose, a wineglass  fi: 11 when' the  fit is
coming on, and from one  third to half a wine glass fulltwo
or three times a day until cured.   The stomach and bow-
els must be thoroughly cleansed before using this remedy., 
MEDICAL BOTANIST:
13*
                    PAKT  FOliilTIL

                        REMARKS.

      Health consists in the due performance of all the func-
   tions of life.   Disease, the result of violated organic law.
      In giving a description.of diseases, the author has en-
   deavored to point out such i haracteri.stic symptoms as aro
   peculiar to the diseases un h r ennsideration, so that judi-
   cious remedies may be applied for their removal.
      In looking over the  symptom-; of  diseases, and their
   remedies, in what are  called standard authors, the  super-
«  ficial observer must at  onco conclude ihat. diseases  are so
   many monsters, with at lea•■.?. as many heads as that slain
   by Hercules;  and which, ot course, would elude, the vigU
   lance and researches of common can aities.   The simple
   f icts in the case are not. ! ronght to view so as to be  un-
   derstood withoutsearchir.g as tor dec;: waters.  And what
   is  exhibited as the  result of  this lahoro.l effort for  know-
   ledge ?   Tho language of a learned  writer, (than  whom
   no man can boast of greater  cnpnitunilies  for acquiring
   medical knowledge,) is a; aheable-to very many who have-
   the, effrontery  to  claim supremacy  in  the healing  ait.,
   " Haifa day, nay, in a genius, half an h air's time  would
   be sufficient to initiate  anv lady or goatlcman into all tho
   mysteries of the Escnlapian ait; for the whole extent of
   both theory and practice  :s,  give calmel.   If that does
   not help, give  mora c;jl./:n"l. nnd if that  again  prove abor-
   tive, double, triple, the do-a of  calx-it I.   If the patient, re-
   covers,  calomel has cured him."   If he dies, "'nothing
   on earth could have s.vod  lii::■."*  lie also, declares  tho
   " calomel practice in lev. ra" i.«'v>;i  *• calamity co-exten-
   sive with the empire of civiliz; 'mn,-'  'ii.l that  " war with
   all its ghostly concoaa'  nls, i.mst hai! calomel its master."
     These sentiments ol'  .   \nT..;> ./Humm, are reiterated
   by thousands whfc h r e  '  • nse.lvos suffered the horrid con^
   sequences of the use oi\...a> ■•<•! a ai other mineral poisoni,
   and are doomed, tlnnvay, to Ki.fl'cr during life ;  and thou* 
no
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
sands are mourning the untimely death of near and dear
friends, by  these agents, and raise the voice of warning
against their use.
   It has been observed, by many, and is worthy to be  re-
membered by all, that gentle remedies  have a controlling
influence, over  tho most  formidable diseases; and,  by
their healthful influence, the  powers of  nature  are sus-
tained and assisted to overcome and expel disease; where-
as, unnatural, irritating prescriptions increase irritability,
enfeeble the powers of nature, and, consequently, increase
the power of disease in tho system.  In a vigorous state
of the system, a disease may be overcome by this kind of
brute force;  but it is at the expense of the constitution ;
because a predisposition to disease is,  thereby, establish-
ed, which will reappear, sooner or later, perhaps in some
other form.
           SYMPTOMS  OF  DISEASES,

   WITH REFERENCE TO THE DTFERENT REMEDIES FOR
                   THEIR  REMOVAL.

                   AGUE AND FEVER,
  This disease, called the. intermittent fever, consists of
three stages—cold, hot, and sweating. These paroxysms,
in different cases, return every  day, every other day, or,
once in three days.   1 he cold stage is preceded by yawn-
ing and stretching; the  whole external  surface appears
rough, with cold  pimples, and the back feels, as  if  cold
water was running on it.  These symptoms are soon fol-
lowed by shivering and often by violent  shaking.   This
stage, after an hour or more, subsides when the hot stage
commences; the sevi nty of which is in proportion to that
of the cold  stage,  by which the  system*is again restored
to its natural state to await the return of the paroxysms in
their regular order and dreaded severity.  The paroxysms, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               141
and particularly the hot stage, is generally attended with
an excruciating pain in tho head and back, and not unfre-
quently with delirium.
  This disease is supposed to originate in an aflluvia from
low, damp places, in  hot dry weather, called marsh mias-
ma, which is produced by the decomposition of vegetable
and, perhaps, animal substances.
  Treatment.— Use the anti-bilious infusion and alterative
cleansing powders freely for three or four days, and then,
in case of fulness at the stomach, give the emetic,  (page
73) otherwise  administer a cathartic of mandrake ; or the
detergent cathartic powders; or  if  there be severe pain
in the  head, the cathartic infusion should be  preferred;
and use the  infusion and powders for four or five days as
before, and repeat  the cathartic, or the emetic, which
should be followed by the cathartic from four to twelve
hours after the operation.  These, in  the absence of the
paroxysms.and the infusion and powders should be repeat-
ed until the stomach and bowels shall be well cleansed ;
after which the jaundice bitters may be employed; or tho
anti-bilious and restorative sirup; or, if the  patient  be
greatly debilitated, the vegetable restorative or restorative
sirup may be necessary.  Should the  use of simples bo
preferred, directions  for their use will be  found in class 3.
Dr. Porter, from  Michigan,   informs  me  that  Culver's
physic is a remedy for this disease, if taken at first to op-
erate freely as a cathartic, and in small  quantities  after-
ward so as to move the bowels gently for a few days.  A
O or two of Cayenne should be put  into the  water in
which  the feet are to be bathed at each return of the cold
stage.   The head and back should be. bathed in the ano-
dyne tincture, rheumatic elixir or other bathing applications
which  will greatly mitigate the pain.
  These directions well  attended to, will clear the  sys-
tem of disease, and  leave the man in the enjoyment of
health  aud not subject to a return  of this or any other dis-
ease. 
i. 1-               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                          APOPLEXY.
      Apoplexy chiefly attacks  corpulent  individuals of  aih
   ~vanced age, hiving a short neck, lead an inactive life, and
    v/ho indulge the appetite.
1     It is characterized by a sudden and entire cessation of
    all voluntary motion and sanse, while the heart and lungi
    continue to perform their accustomed functions.
      Apoplexy may he distinguished from  palsv by the diffi-
    cult and loud breathing, and profound sleep ; and from epi-
    lepsy by the ahseme of convulsions.
      This disease has two varieties, the sanguineous and tho
    sarous.  In the  sanguineous, the attack is generally sud-
    den, the face red and swollen, and the veins lull.   In the
    Serous, the face  is palo  and bloated, veins depressed, pulse
    small and irregular.  ■ Both are in -some  cases preceded by
    premonitory symptoms, such as giddiness, dimness of the
    sight, drowsiness, loss of memory, faltering of the tongue,
    Sic.   These  sympu .us  admonish the  individual to live
    on a spare vegetable diet, and  engage  in  active employ-
    ment.   Excessive fatigue, violent exertions, or stooping,
    must be carefully avoided.
      In an attack of apoplexy, prompt and efficient remedies
    must be adopted.  Dr. Blach, ii his reformed system of
    medicine, says: "The  whole  secret or art. of treatment
    consists in equalising the circulation ;* and  recommends,
    first, to remove every thing from the neck winch might in
    any  degree obstruct i'ao circulation,  and  immerse  the feet
    and  legs in very warm lye water, and after remaining fif-
    teen or twenty minutes, friction must be applied to them."
    This, he says, '• 1 have never known to  fail to exert a sal-
    utary, a decided good  eTect.   The  whole surface must
    also be bathed wuh a mild tincture of  capsicum  applied
    very warm."  W the patient is unable to take medicine, a

      *Dr.  Davis  says this can be the most readily accomplish*
    ed by a'liii>ni>tiiiuy (Yon.  a tfuspaonlul to a tablespoonCul
    of the anti-sp:isn:<ulie (iicuuv, in connection with the oth-
    er treat me nt, once iu ten or fifteen minutes,  until urgeut
    symptoms subside. 
                  MEDICAL  BOTANIST.               143

large injection  must be immediat.dy administered.  For
this, the cathartic injection would he most proper.  A co-
pious discharge from the  bowels should be  produced as
f.oon as possible.  The surface of the body should alsobe
covered warm, and stones or Iricks applied (page 80) to
the extremities to excite perspiraiimi, and a mustard pias-
ter between the shoulders  and over the sacrum. Cathartics
i.:i»vcry important in apoplexy."
   ia the premonitory  symptoms frequently  bathing  tho
feel in warm water, cold  applications to the  head and a
tree  use of cathartics are highly recommended.  Emetics
may be necessary, and  other  presrripinns calculated to
cleanse the blood and cause a iiee and equal circulation of
the. fluid.
                       ASTHMA.
   Of this also, there are two varieties, viz : the humid in
which there! is a free discharge, of mucus from the lim:,'s ;
and the dry or spasmodic, v. Iiieh is attended by little or no
c.apeatoration.   Any means lay which the lungs are exci-
te.! to undue action may be the  cause of this distressing
disease.
   For relief in the time of parovysm, immerse the feet in
warm alkali, (see bathing  and fomenting applications,)and
apply draughts, and as .soon an  possible, give the anti-
Bcroi'ulous tincture, and repeat the dose  as occasion may
require.  At. the same tine nrik>> a i ee use of an infusion
of chamomile  or smartweed, or  other infusion of herbs.
   The asthmatic tincture, asthmatic rills, and demulcient
compounds and a strong infusion of pyrena freely drank,
are invaluable  remedies.  The anti-spasmodic tincture is
useful, especially in spasmodic asthma.    Emetics and ca-
thartics, I ixatives and tonics, must  be administered so as
to keep tho stomach  and  bowel., in  good order.  The
asthmatic plaster should also be  applied.  Smoking the
dried thorn-apple leaves, or brown paper saturated with a
solution of salt-petre and then dried, is very good in some
cases of asthma.   Crowded  assemblies—the  inhaling of
impure air—and especially that arising  from the burning 
Ill
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 of  any resinous  or  oily  substance, or  sulphur,  must
 carefully be avoided.   The clothing must be comfortably
 adapted to the changes of the seasons, the feet  kept dry
 and warm, and  every means persevered in  to  preserve
 health, with a strict regard to temperance in all  things.
                       BALDMiSS.
  This is very  common in advanced  life, and is often
 caused by sickness at any period.  In all cases it is p'i>h-
 ably owing to diseased action which prevents the free cir-
 culation of that fluid which  supports  the growth  of the
 hair and keeps it moist.  Cleanliness is, without doubt, a
 great preventive of baldness.  Stimulating and oily sub-
 stances frequently applied, and the part thoroughly rubbed
 with the hand at each application, has in some cases, had
 the desired effect.  For this purpose, the anti-scrofulous
 tincture, three parts, and house  leek, or other ointment,
one part well mixed, when used, is very  good.
  A gentlemen of  about fifty, showed  me  his head on
 which an  abundant growth of hair was appearing, on  a
 part which he said had been bald for  years, from the use,
 for  a short time,  of a tincture of peach pits in brandy.  In
 applying the scald head ointment for the cure  of that dis-
 ease, it has not failed, to my knowledge, of re-producing
 a luxuriant growth of hair.
                BLEEDING AT THE NOSE.
  This is not caused so much by an  over  fullness of the
 blood vessels, as  by an unnatural  determination  of blood
 to  the head.   Bathing  the  feet and cold applications to
 the head are excellent  The stimulating Bitters is a rem-
 edy for habitual  nose bleeding;  and for profuse, a pledget
of lint or cotton  wet with anodyne tincture  and put into
 the nose will stop the bleeding as soon as it reaches the
 orifice.
                    BLOODY URINE.
  This may be caused by lifting, jumping, hard riding, by
external injuries, or by inflammatory diseases.  For a rem-
 edy, eqaalize the circulation, by bathing the feet, draughts,
 Jcc. and if  by external injury, foment the part  affected, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              145
(sec Bathing  and fomenting applications and draughts,)
and promote perspiration.
  Use nephritics, especially, bearberry, internally,  and
when the discharge  of urine has become free, give styp-
tics alternately with the nephritics until a cure is effected.
  A number of years since, while  on a journey, I  called
at  the house  of a friend for whom I had previously pre-
scribed for  a lingering disease, and found he had started
in the morning, to transact business at some distance from
home, and  was not expected  to return until next day ; but
he was soon brought in severely injured by a kick from his
horse, in his side, near the kidney.   He was in excrucia-
ting pain, and had not passed any urine since his injury,
which had  been five  or six hours.  As I had no medicine
with me, I  advised him to send immediately for  a physi-
cian, but he told me I must do the best I could with what
they had in the house.  I  requested that he would send
his son for  a catheter, which he did, but it was refused.
  However the catheter was not needed but  a short time.
Sudorific medicines internally, and fomenting the bruised
part, soon produced the desired object, when large quanti-
ties of clotted blood were  discharged with the urine, and
he had a good  night's rest.   In the morning I left him with
the best advice I could, and he was soon restored to more
than usual  health, as his side was perfectly restored,  in
which a seated pain had afflicted him for years.
                        BILES.
  These are very afflicting, many  times, but are general-
ly beneficial.
  Egg shells taken every  morning, from i to £ a O  is
said to be  a specific for biles.   The detergent beer, and
other  detergent medicine  and especially the  alterative
detergent powders should be used freely, to cleanse the
blood.  Wetting  the  part  frequently  with  the anodyne
tincture,  and  covering  the tumor with the strengthening
plaster at first appearance  will generally prevent their
coming to a head.  If after  the discharge they continue
     vol. u                10 
146
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
sore, the application of  the  anti-scrofulous tincture will
soon dispose them to heal.   If not, use salve.
                     BRONCHITIS.
  The characteristic symptoms of this disease are, a sense
of oppression and tightness of  the chest,  attended with
wheezing or rattling  in  respiration, which is increased
when in a horizontal position. The cough which at first is
dry is soon attended with a free discharge of viscid mucus
or coagulated lymph, resembling the white of an egg; but
this changes to a yellowish or greenish color.   This dis-
ease is attended with a pain  in the forehead, which is in-
creased by coughing.  Drowsiness attends a copious dis-
charge of mucus which  obstructs respiration; the tongue
is covered with while mucus, the skin is dry, yet not un-
usually hot.
  In the acute stage an emetic  is important; (page 73)
and in some  cases the  sudorific course  (page 80)  will
also be important.  The alterative cleansing  powders or
other preparation for  cough may also be necessary.  In
the chronic stage, and  perhaps,  also,  in the acute, the
wet sheet bath(page 81) and the  compound tincture (page
101) will be found of great value.  Bathe  the  feet fre-
quently and apply  draughts.
                  BRUISES AND FALLS.
  Equalize the circulation,  by bathing the feet and using
sudorifics.  Foment the bruised part with wormwood or
other fomenting aplications.   See page 90, where further
directions are given upon this subject.
  Blood-letting is not necessary in such cases.
  The anodyne  tincture will mitigate pain and prevent
soreness.
                  BURNS AND SCALDS.
  For a superficial burn or  scald, the anodyne  tincture,
oil of fir, or liniment for burns will immediately remove
the pain  and stop  the smarting.   When the skin is off,
the green or  other ointments must be used,  and  if  the
hands or feet  are badly burned or scalded,  the fingers
or the  toes must  be  done  up  separately  to prevent the 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
147
possibility of two or more of them healing  together.—
Use also  poultices and  salves  when necessary.  The
green ointment is however, superior to any other.
   Freezing requires a course of treatment  similar to that
of a burn or scald  after the frost is  taken  out  by the
application of cold  water.
                       CANCER.
   This formidable  disease often appears in early life, in
the form of a small protuberance—generally more or less
discolored with red lines in various directions, and is fre-
quently attended with sharp twinging  pains, without any
further appearance  of diseased  action until the decline of
life, and then, like  a selfish creditor  who  has  watched,
perhaps for years for a favorable opportunity, now claims
his full share in the torture and destruction  of its victim.
The tumor now increases in size and pain, perhaps rap-
idly, with an irregular  uneven surface, and is attended
with a peculiar burning sensation exquisitely painful; and,
in a short time, it eats its  way tothe surface and dischar-
ges a corroding fluid.   The patient now requires the kind
sympathy of friends,  and such remedies  as will afford
relief.
   In the cure of  cancers, the main dependence must  be
placed upon  remedies for cleansing the blood of the hu-
mors which supply the  ulcer with its virulency; and
which, if not discharged at the ulcer, would be secreted by-
some of the internal oagans ;  and would be  distressing,
and equally if not with increased fatal  consequences.
  The knife  has seldom proved a remedy ; and, judging
from the nature of the disease, it need  not be expected.—
In the aggravated form of the disease, the circulating fluids
must be cleansed, or a cure cannot possibly  be effected.
So says every author,  whose writings upon the subject
are worth perusing.
  For cleansing the blood, either in the scirrhous or ulcer-
ated state, the Detergent  infusion, Detergent decoction,
Anti-scrofulous tincture,  and  either of the articles com- 
148
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 posing Class 9, and the cancer  infusion must be used al-
 ternately, with steady and unwavering perseverance.
  The Alterative detergent powders should be taken three
 or four times a day, so as to produce a free cathartic oper-
 ation at least once  a week.  Commence with a small po-
 tion and increase daily, until the desired object is effected!
 An infusion of the least powerful article in  Class 9, may
 be used with the powders, and those more powerful or the
 compounds when they are discontinued.
  In the forming  or scirrhous  state, the  cancer may be
 bathed every evening with some of the articles named on
 pages 90 and 91, for that purpose.   A linen  cloth may be
 moistened in the infusion and laid  on the  tumor, and
 when cool it may be exchanged for  another  similarly pre-
 pared, and after continuing this  process for fifteen minutes
 to half an hour, apply some article of ointment well  heat
 in.   See Ointments.   If after all that can be done  to pre-
 vent, the diseased action continues, and suppuration is like-
 ly to take place, poultices must  be used. See Poultices.—
 The bathing may still  be continued, especially when the
 poultices  are  changed.  The Detergent medicines must
 also be continned until a cure is effected.   After the ulcer
 is formed and discharges,  the  washes, poultices, salves,
 and plasters may be used alternately as may be necessa-
ry,  which  will require sound judgment  and  experi-
 ence to dictate in difficult cases, and especially in the ap-
 plication of caustic plasters, or  corrosive  lotions.   As a
general rule, poultices, salves and plasters  may each re-
main on the ulcer for eight hours, observing to use a prep-
aration for a wash  at each  dressing, that the  ulcer may be
kept well cleansed.  When the discharge is  very offen-
 sive, use the charcoal or the wild indigo poultice.   There
is a sufficient variety of compounds and  simples recom-
 mended for cancers, that the changes may be made when
 necessary.
  Through the whole  course of treatment for cancer, the
 patient must subsist on  plain, simple diet,  easy of  diges-
 tion, and free  from high seasoning; and  carefully avoid 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
149
'such exercise or exposure to changes of air as would be
'likely to produce any change in the circulating fluids, and
 all fermented or spirituous liquors.
                       CANKER.
   Children are the most liable to  this disease.  It ap-
 pears in white ulcers, upon the tongue, gums, and palate,
 resembling small particles of curdled  milk, and it some-
 times extends to the stomach, and through the whole intes-
't'nal canal.
   When this  appearance in  the mouth is discovered, no
 time should be lost in applying remedies.
   First give a dose of cathartic powders, followed by the
 canker sirup, and if necessary, use the canker infusion, or
 the canker powders sweetened with honey or loaf sugar,
 or, vinegar and  salt, as a gargle, (page 91,) in connection
 with either.
   Should these fail of speedy relief give the  emetic ; con-
 tinue the use of the canker sirup,  and the gargle which,
 ma)" also be taken into the stomach if necessary, and re-
 peat the cathartic and emetic, as the case may  require.—
 This course will speedily cure any curable case of canker
 or thrush.
                    CANINE  MADNESS.
    For this awfully horrifying malady, many remedies have
 heen published,   some of   which appear  plausible,  and
 some without the least appearance of analogy, or reason,
 or even the sanction of experiment.
    The following  from Dr.  Beach's Reformed  System of
 medicine, which is the most reasonable upon the subject
 of any thing I have ever seen, is considerably abridged.
    " The bite of a rabid anima! is not always followed by
 hydrophobia.   When a person is bitte/i through clothes,
 and  especially woollen, the virus is frequently wiped from
 the teeth before they enter the  skin.  From this cause it
 is sometimes the case that but one  or  two  become rabid
 who are bitten by the same animal."
    At an uncertain period after the bite,  a painful tension,
 .redness, heat and darting pains and spasms affect the part 
150              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
bitten.  Languor, lassitude, anxiety, sighing, love of soli-
tude, twitching of the tendons, horrible dreams, aversion
 o, and dread of any kind of liquid, which causes spasms,
i.nd a desire for biting, are symptoms of the approach of
the awful paroxysms of this disease.
  Treatment:—The  wound  should  be cupped as soon
after the bite as possible, after  which apply the caustic
plaster until  an eschor is formed; then apply the yeast,
lobelia or slippery elm poultice, for a day or  two, after
which some of the leaves recommended for draughts,—
(see draughts,) and keep up a discharge as long as consis-
tent.  The patient should use  freely,  a strong infusion or
decoction of blue scull cap and the Detergent Powder as
directed in the case of cancer.   1 should also use as much
of the anti-scrofulous tincture as the stomach can bear.—
Should symptoms of hydrophobia appear, the lobelia emet-
ic in addition  to the above, and promoting perspiration by
steam, or vapor bath, are also recommended.
8           ,         CATARRH.
  This disease is caused by cold seated in the glands and
mucus membranes of the head and throat,  and is  charac-
terized by a discharge of serum and a dropping of a fetid
fluid from the head into the throat.
  For a  remedy,  see  Errhines,  Class 15.   The treat-
ment for general debility is sometimes necessary in  this
complaint.
                   CHAPPED HANDS.
  Wash the hands in butter milk  at bed  time, wipe and
dry them and moisten the affected part with the anti-scrof-
ulous  tincture, and after drying them again apply some of
the ointments  or salves, or pure mutton tallow.   The tal-
low may be  applied often through the day.
                 * CHOLERA MORBUS.               .   «
  The characteristic symptoms of this disease are a spon-
taneous vomiting and purging;  caused  by over-loading
the stomach with food or fruit—commonly unripe  fruit, or
by a vitiated state of the fluids  in the stomach, when the
digestive organs are in a debilitated state or by a relaxa- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
151
lion and exhaustion from the  influence of excessive heat
and over exertion in labor or otherwise.
  The evacuations are produced by an effort of nature to
free herself from disease or offending matter, and would,
in all probability prove salutary, were it not that the action
is continued, by vitiated or acrid bile, beyond what nature
requires.
  To allay the irritation of the stomach, use  a weak prep-
aration of the  anti-bilious infusion, or the  sirup, or other
preparations of rhubarb, or a drop or two  of peppermint
oil on loaf sugar, which may be repeated in  half an hour,
more or less, if necessary.  An injection, either  astrin-
gent or mucilage, may also be necessary.  See injection.
  Should cramp attend this disease, bathe   the feet and
foment the bowels, (Page 89,) and bathe the  part immedi-
ately affected, with the nervine or other liniment, or with
the anodyne tincture.  The vegetable  restorative, or re-
storative sirup may be  necessary for a few days after  the
irritation has subsided.
                        COLDS.
  This is a malady to which all are liable, and often with-
out knowing its origin;  but is, generally  in consequence
of a sudden exposure to dampness or cold  when warm.—
Most persons, as long as  they can walk about, scorn to be
confined by what they call a common cold, and  therefore,
colds, like an enemy despised as inferior,  gather strength
from delay, until they are incurable.
  Prompt remedies may  save much  suffering, and perhaps
the life  of the  afflicted individual.  Delays are more or
less dangerous in all cases of disease.
  At the commencement of a cold the alterative Cleans-
ing powders  in  small doses,  often repeated,  or Cough
drops,  or Cough sirups, and bathing the feet (page
89) at bed time, and strict care may be sufficient. Should
these fail, a thorough use of sudoiifics must be adopted,
in which the wet sheet  or vapor  bath maybe  important,
 especially  in a severe  case.   See Class 24 ;  and when
 there is distress or pressure at  the  stomach, these reme- 
152
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 dies (or such as have been used) should be immediately
followed by the  emetic or cathartic, or both, after which
the first mentioned course may be followed for a few days,
and the whole repeated if necessary.
   The following remedy for a cold is highly recommend-
ed by Dr.  Higbie.    Immediately   after  taking  cold
the whole surface should be sponged with cold soft water
until well cleansed, followed by thoroughly applied friction
with the flesh brush  or coarse  linen- until an agreeable
warmth pervades the  whole system.   Then retire to bed
and drink  cold  water,  a  tumbler full at  a time, so as to
drink a pint or a pint and a half in the  course of ten or fif-
teen minutes; have a heated stone at the feet, (pa»e 80,)
and be well covered with  bed clothes  and  retain this po-
sition through the night.
   In the morning bathe and apply the  friction as before ;
dress and be about;  drink a pint of cold water immediate-
ly after bathing; exercise if  necessary to  regain  natural
 warmth, use but little food for the next twenty-four hours,
not to exceed three ounces of unbolted wheat bread, but
cold water maybe freely used.
   Should any symptoms of the cold  remain, repeat the
same course for the next twenty-four hours
   By this course the  capillary  vessels are  stimulated to
proper action, the circulating fluids  rendered active and
the whole system invigorated, so that  morbid accumu-
lations are expelled by the spontaneous operations  of na-
ture.
                        COLIC
   The characteristic  symptoms of this disease, of which
there are four varieties, are excruciating pain in the umbeli-
cal region, with  which the stomach sympathises, attended
 with nausea, retching, and vomiting, obstinate costiveness,
•cold extremities, and often with a spasmodic contraction
 of the abdominal muscles, and sometimes by a discharge of
:lhe feces, upward,  while vomiting,  called the iliac pas-
 sion, which is very distressing.  The.pain is not confinedto 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
153
'One spot, and pressure upon the abdomen usually, in some
 degree, affords relief.
   Bilious Colic is attended with vomiting  bilious matter,
 i utter taste in the mouth, great heat, scanty urine, the pain
 frequently shifting from one part of the abdomen to another
 attended with a sense of coldness and excessive  thirst.—
 Hoarseness frequently attends this variety.   See recipes
 on pages  121, 123,  137, 91,
   Flatulent Colic usually commences with a sense  of ful-
 ness at the  pit of the stomach,  soon attended with pain,
 nausea, retching or  vomiting.  These symptoms increase
 until the patient is greatly distressed, exceedingly restless
 and constantly in motion, with his hands pressed  upon the
 abdomen.   The pain changes from one part of the abdo-
 men to another, and is measurably relieved by a discharge
 of wind.  The  patient  also  experiences severe griping
 pains, soreness  of the bowels and a rumbling noise.  See
 colic powders &c,  as above.
   Hysteric Colic is  distinguished from the Flatulent colic
 by severe spasms, and dejection of spirits.   See nervine
 tincture,  &c.
   Painter's colic is  distinguished from  the bilious or flat-
 ulent, by its gradual  approach, by the paralytic symptoms
 attending it, by a violent darting of pain to the sides, and,
 by the  strong spasmodic  action  of the  intestines and ab-
 dominal muscles.
   This disease has a variety of causes, the most  com-
 mon of which are unwholesome food, unripe  fruit, or indi-
 gestible substances  taken into the  stomach, long continu-
 ed costiveness;  metallic poisons, particularly lead; a trans-
 fer of the  gout,or rheumatism, the drying up of issues,  by
 which humors have  long been discharged, Sic.
   A dose of the colic powders will usually afford speedy
 relief, which if necessary must be repeated. See page 121.
 A O  each of the anodyne and anti-scrofulous tincture has
 aiso proved to be  an invaluable  remedy for this  dise  se,
 particularly in the first stage.
   •Bathing the feet and fomenting applications to the al> 
151
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
domen, must not be neglected, see pages 89, 90.  A small
bag of dry headed salt may be applied to the abdomen, and
often changed, instead of the fomenting applications.
  Should this course of treatment fail and the irritation of
the stomach be severe, give a D or 2 of the tincture of
rhubarb (page 101) which may be soon followed by  a dose
of the anodyne drops, see page 98, and these may be re-
peated until relief be obtained. Or should the irritation of the
stomach prove obstinate, a cathartic injection must  be ad-
ministered, see  page 94, repeated in an hour or two if ne-
cessary. As soon as it can be retained, a dose of cathartic
infusion, cathartic powders, or other active physic must be
administered  and the operation encouraged by injections.
As   soon as  a free cathartic operation can be produced,
treat the patient as for other  cases of debility.
                     CONSUMPTION.
  The characteristic symptoms of this disease are a grad-
ual wasting away  of the strength and flesh, generally a
severe  cough,  hectic  fever,* the eyes bright and clear,
and the tongue clean and  smooth, and  an uneasiness and
pain in the breast or side  is experienced which is increas-
ed by exercise.
  As the disease advances,  the cough and expectoration
increases, the patient is drenched with night sweats, and,
although the appetite  may continue good, the strength and
flesh continue to waste away, the pulse becomes more and

  *This fever has usually two paroxysms  in twenty-four
hours, one about noon and  the other near midnight.  Each
paroxysm is  preceded by coldness, and terminates with
consilerable evacuation through the pores.   A dry tickling
cough, a husky dryness of the palms of the hands and soles
of the feet, and a  flush of the cheek, attends each parox-
ysm of this fever.
  In some cases this fever is without  regularity as to ihe
return of the  paroxysms,  which are neither preceded  by
chills, nor terminated by sweating.  It is,  however, easily
distinguished  from any other fever by the symptoms which
accompany it. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              155
more frequent  and finally exceed one hundred in  a min-
ute.
   The common causes of this disease are briefly these :
neglect of remedies in  the first stage of diseases,  or  the
use of those which have an injurious effect upon the sys-
tem, the  folly of dress  inducing a state of the system not
improperly called muslin  consumption, predisposition to
the diseases, and tubercles* in the lungs.
   In this disease the whole circulating fluids become vi-
tiated, and consequently the fluids secreted  by the lungs
are constantly irritating and exciting them to undue action.
   Emetics,  (page  83,) have  a salutary influence in this
disease;  but as  the strength of the patient will not gener-
ally admit of  their operation oftener than once a week,
other medicines must be used in the intervals.  The bow-
els must  be kept in as good order  as possible.   If costive,
see costiveness.  If a  relaxed state of the bowels  afflict
the patient, the  anti-dysenteric pills, or powders, or the
following compound may be used  :—
   To one pint of fourth proof brandy add two  D of finely
pulverized allspice  and four of loaf sugar, and after burn
ing the brandy till the blaze goes out, add half a D of flour
and mix  well together
   Dose.—One  O  from one to eight hours,  as the case
may require.  For night sweats use white daisy blossoms,
see Class 25, cold sige tea or  comfrey coffee,  see page 98.
Should emetics  cause an increased  and  lasting degree of
debility,  the case  should be considered doubtful and they
should not be repeated.
   As long experience  has shown the importance of fre-

  * Tubercles are hard tumors in diflVrent parts of the lungs,
but mostly near the bronchial tubes,  and vary in size, from
being barely perceptible, to  the  size  of  a  small  ben's
♦•gg ; are sometimes in clusters, which unite together and
form a large ulcer  which discharges  a large  quantity of
matter, and sometimes  blood,  into the  bronchial tubes.— (
Tubercles, however, sometimes exist for many years with-
out serious consequences. 
1 JG              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 quently changing prescriptions in this  as  well  as mos*l
 other diseases, directions-for a great variety of compounds
 will be f oundin this work, calculated to remove or palliate
 the disease.   These may be found under the head of pow-
 ders, infusions, sirups, and tinctures.   Plasters will  also
 be found useful, as also frequently bathing the  feet, and
 the whole surface, with  alkali,  or other  bathing  applica-
 tions.   Biding  on horse  baek,  the wet  sheet bath, sea
 voyages and removing to a warm climate are highly rec-
 ommended for the cure of this disease.   Violent exercise,
 night air and stormy weather must carefully be avoided.
 Should  internal bleeding occur  the   asthmatic  tincture
 or styptics, Class 23, or  the styptic sirup,  should be em-
 ployed.
                         CORNS.
   Corns are caused by wearing tight  shoes, and cannot
 be cured without  keeping the  feet free from irritation.—
 Frequently bathing the part aflected in warm water and
 shaving off the callous, and  wetting the part two  or three
 times a day with the anodyne tincture will soon give relief
 and effect a cure.   If the part is very tender, apply a small
 com meal poultice  at bed time  and wear it for   several
■ days, which will very materially prevent irritation.
                      COST1VENESS.
   As many lingering diseases are traced back to  costive-
 ness as  their  predisposing  cause, I wish to impress the
 importance of a seasonable attention to it  upon the minds
 of all.   The importance of an evacuation from the bowels
■daily, is obvious to every reflecting mind.
   For the removal of this difficulty, laxative preparations
 are by far preferable to active cathartics.   See  Class 17,
 see also, laxative  powders,  detergent laxative powders,
 anti-dyspeptic nerve  powders, anti-dyspeptic bitters, anti-
 dyspeptic pills,  different preparations of rhubarb, Davis'
 stomach pills, laxative bitters, laxative beer,  &c.  Jnjec-
. tion must not be neglected.   These or any  of them may
 be used alternately three or four days each, and when a
 ilaxative medicine is not  necessary, the vegetable restora- 
MEDICAL B0TANI3T.
\iu
rive, restorative sirup, tonic and  nervine bitter3, or other
tonic medicine should be used a few days  at a time.
                       couon.
  Cases of  cough occur unattended with the symptoms
either of a  cold or consumption.  The alterative cleans-
ing powders prepared in honey, the anodyne drops  and
anti-spasmodic tincture, asthmatic tincture, cough drops.
and cough  sirups may be necessary, amd will  generally
prove effectual in a short time.   The stomach and bowels
must be cleansed and regulated if necessary.
                       CRAMP.
  This is an involuntary contraction of the  muscles, and
when violent is very distressing.  Cases of cramp in the
feet or legs, which occur while in bed, can be immediately
relieved by stretching the limb at full length, and pressing
the foot against a solid substance.  Friction over the part
affected, or a few magnetic passes downward by an atten-
dant, even if it be in the stomach, is of great  importance.
Bathing the part  with nervine liniment, is also good ; also
a heated brick moistened in vinegar applied as warm as
it can be borne.   Six or eight drops of the oil of hemlock,
and two or three  of  peppermint oil dropped  on sugar,
which may then  be  dissolved in  warm herb tea, is a valu-
able remedy for  cramp internally.  This or a dose of'an-
odyne tincture, the  anti-convulsive, stimulating  elixir or
other stimulating medicine  should be administered before
making an external application.
                 CROUP OR RATTLES.
  The characteristic symptoms of this disease are a shrill
noise while coughing, resembling the barking of a puppy,
a rattling in the throat and  difficulty in breathing, which
appears to threaten  suffocation.  It is not unfrequently
preceded by symptoms of a common cold, yet in some cases
its attack  is without any previous indisposition.   Fever
with a hard, quick pulse,   and  restless  uneasy  sensa-
tion, usually attends this disease.  If the disease be not
arrested in its  progress, the cough, rattling and difficulty
of breathing  continue to increase ;   and in three or four, 
158
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 days and sometimes much less, suffocation  ends the life
 of the sufferer.
   Children from one to three years old are most liable to
 this disease.
   Prompt attention to  the first s3rmptoms is all important.
 A dose of animal oil, and the emetic tincture, see page 102,
 must be administered  alternately, once in twenty or thirty
 minutes.   Or if the drops are not at hand, the emetic pow-
 ders or blood root and  lobelia, equal  quantities  may be
 given in small doses as directed for the drops.  The feet
 must be bathed and draughts applied.  Garlick or onion
 fried in pig foot oil,  or an oiled  brown paper must be
 kept constantly  over the region of the throat and lungs.—
 After the operation of  the  emetic, the  oil in  which the
 onions were  fried, may be administered, half to a O at a
 time once an hour.  Persevere until relief be obtained.
   Fomenting the throat and chest with hops  and vinegar,
 is of great value, page 89.
   The following which  is.accredited   to the Journal of
 Health, is certainly worth trying when other remedies are
 not at hand ; and, perhaps should  be preferred under any
 circumstances.  It is partly on the cold water plan, yet, I
 consider the  wet sheet bath far preferable.
   " When a child is taken with the croup, instantly apply
<old water, ice  water  if possible,  suddenly and freely to
 the neck and chest with a  sponge.   The breathing will
 be almost instantly relieved.  As soon as possible let the
 sufferer drink freely of cold water, then wipe it dry, cov-
 er it warm and soon a quiet slumber will follow.
   After relief is obtained, a dose of  cathartic powders,
 cathartic infusion, or other cathartic must be administer-
 ed, and medicine given to restore health, as the case may
 require.   The expectorant and tonic sirup or  other tonics
 and expectorants would be proper in most cases.
                 DELIRIUM TREMENS.
  The  characteristic  symptoms of  this awful  maladv
which is caused  by the intemperate use of ardent spirits,
or opium, (see opium,) are wakefulness,  nausea and vomit- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
159
 ing, or belching wind, loathing of food, costiveness, agita-
 tion of body and mind ;  the countenance has the expres-
 sion of great anxiety and alarm,   and as the disease pro-
 gresses, the patient fancies himself beset with serpents
 and dreadful insects, which he endeavors to avoid,  or re-
 pel with expressions of horror;  and sometimes he imag-
 ines that the devil or devils are after him in  visible form,
 with whom he appears  to  struggle   with mighty  efforts,
 awful expressions of torment, and often calls for  assist-
 ance.
   In the  treatment of  this disease,  stimulants must be
 used, and the preparation of stimulating bitters is at least
 equal to any other.   This  may be  administered  in new-
 milk, if the patient can bear it, and repeated as necessity
 may require.  The  feet should be bathed and draughts ap-
 plied,  and especially if  there  be much determination to
 the head.
   It is probable that the wet sheet bath will surpass every
 other remedy in this disease.
   A cathartic will also be necessary,  for  which the ca-
 thartic  infusion  should be preferred.
   Should  these means fail to afford relief, an   opium
 pill may be  administered  once in three hours, until the
 patient finds relief  in sleep.  After which  emetics and
 other medicines may be  used as the  case may require.—
 After the  stomach and bowels shall have been cleansed,
 the use of the tonic and nervine bitters may be important for
 a few days, and then if  the patient is half witted, he will
 forever shun the cause of this disease.
                       DIABETIS.
   The characteristic symptoms of this disease are fre-
 quent discharges of  urine of a sweetish  taste, which in
 some cases  amounts to  several quarts a day.  Afflicting
 thirst,   voracious appetite, dry skin, disordered stomach
 and bowels, pain and weakness in the loins, cold extrem-
ities,  headache,  great debility, emaciation, difficulty of '
breathing, swelling of the feet, Sic, are common symptoms.
   The wet sheet bath or other means calculated to  main- 
160
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
tain a moist surface, should not be neglected.   Thorough-
ly applied friction to the whole surface night and morning,
is  important.   Astringent  tonics,  diuretic laxatives and
sudorifics, if necessary, should be used alternately, togeth-
er with such other medicines as  may  be necessary to in*-
prove the health.
                      DIARRHOEA.
   This disease is well understood to be frequent dischar-
ges from the  bowels,  attended with tenesmus  and fever.
Move the bowels gently  by the  use  of the rhubarb  sirup
or anti-dyspeptic bitters, and follow  this with  the  anti-
dysenteric  pills, astringent  or mucilaginous  injections, if
necessary,  and the vegetable restorative.   Should  these
fail to remove the complaint speedily, give an emetic, and
repeat the whole if necessary.   A small pill of opium  in-
troduced in the rectum, or the anodyne drops in the injec-
tion,'will afford great  relief in cases of severe tenesmus.
   The following is highly recommended in  cases of di-
arrhoea.  Scorch or burn powdered rhubarb in an iron pot,
stirring it constantly until it blazes, and then  smother it
in a covered jar.  Dose,  from five to ten  grains in port
wine.   After a dose or two the pain subsides, and the bow-
els are  restored to their  natural  state.   The  asthmatic
tincture is an invaluable remedy for diarrhoea.
                 DISEASE  OF THE EAR.
   Children, and sometimes adults, are afflicted with ul-
ceration of the ear.   This is soon cured by taking as  much
of the anti-scrofulous tincture as the  stomach  can  bear,
three or four times a  day, and drop three or four drops of
the same into the ear  or into both, if both are aflected, af-
ter each dose.  After using  this for six or eight  days,
change  to  the detergent  infusion and detergent powders
internally,  and drop the bittersweet or  house leek oint-
ment into  the ear as  directed for the tincture,  and after
using these six or eight days, adopt  the use  of the tinc-
ture as before, and so proceed until a cure  is effected.—
Castile soap suds should be thrown into the ear with con-
siderable force by a syringe,  as olten  as once in two ot. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST*              161
three mornings while pursuing the above or other treat-
ment for the ear ; and cotton or raw silk constantly worn
in the ear.   Inflammation of the ear is attended with ex-
cruciating pain, and this can generally be  relieved  in a
short time by introducing into the ear a pledget of cotton
or lint wet with the anti-scrofulous tincture, nervine  lini-
ment or sap of hickory wood.  The centre of  a  roasted
onion put into the  ear,  and the remainder of the onion
bound on over  the  ear is  very good.  All applications
should be made as warm as the patient can  bear.  Should
these means fail to  afford relief, a thorough use of sudo-
rific infusion, bathing the feet and fomenting applications
to the ear must be persevered in, until relief is obtained.
   The vapor bath (see page 80) may sometimes  be ne-
cessary.
   Deafness is frequently caused by inspissated wax in the
ear, which prevents the sound from reaching the tympan-
um and auditory nerve.  This  must be  removed by fre-
quently dropping vegetable expressed oil or other  pure
soft oil into the ear and  syringing the ear  as directed for
ulceration.
   Extraneous  substances may  generally be  removed by
small forceps, or if they do not  produce pain,  they  may
remain without danger until forced  out by the  accumula-
tion of ear wax.
   A few drops of soft oil often applied will very much as-
 sist the process. When insects get into the car, they may
be killed by filling  the  ear  with spirits or  any harmless
 liquid, and then removed by injecting warm water into the
 ear.
                 DISEASES OF THE EYE.
   Inflammation of the eyes when  severe,  is one of the
 most intolerable diseases  that ever assailed the  human
 system, and no disease  has more frequently baffled the
 skill of physicians.   From a severe attack of this dis-
 ease, I am more than ever before satisfied, that severely
 tfthcting remedies  are pernicious.
    Alum curd made by beating the white of  a raw egg and
      vol. i.              11 
162              MEDICAL B0TASIST.
  pieces of alum together until the egg coagulates, then sep-
  arate the curd from the alum and bind it over the eyes, is
  very soothing during the hours of rest.
    The eyes should frequently be bathed  in a solution of
  pure rock, or other salt, and soft water, to which a little
  vinegar may occasionally be added. This is the best wash
  ever used for the eyes.   Bayberry, or other washes, are
  also excellent.   (See washes.)  Eye salve and ointments
  will also prove beneficial in some cases.   Slippery  elm
  poultice  may  be applied at bed time,  when necessary.
  (See poultices.)
    At the commencement of the inflammation, a solution of
  salt in soft water thoroughly used, is all that  is necessary.
  Salt and vinegar (see page 91,)  will at once remove the
  sensation of roughness, so afflicting in cases of inflamma-
 tion, if it be used so as to reach the part affected.
    Cathartics, emetics and detergents must be used, so as
 to remove the humors from the system, and the feet and
 whore surface often bathed in a preparation of alkali, (see
 page 89,) and draughts frequently renewed.
   I have several times removed collections of matter  on
 th/e eye ball, by dropping two or three drops of the bitter-
 sweet ointment first into one ear and then  into the other,
 once in three nights.
   It  is confidently believed that the course above recom-
 mended, will do all that medicine can do for inflammation
 of the eyes, either acute  or chronic.  The wet sheet bath
 and shower bath  will prove valuable auxiliaries, and per-
 haps, supercede the necessity  of every  other remedy irt
 this disease.
   Artificers in  cutlery and other polished work, are lia-
 ble to have small particles of iron or steel imbedded into
the film of the eye ball, by the swift motion of the emery
wheel.  I  once saw an artificer remove a piece of steel
so minute, as to be nearly invisible to the naked eye, yet
it caused excruciating pain.   He steadied the eye ball and
held the eye open with the thumb and fore  finger of the
left hand,  while with the right hand he  passed the edge* 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
163
of a sharp instrument lightly over the eye ball where the
steel had entered, and succeeded in removing it at the first
attempt.   A magnet, however is far better, and is perfect-
ly safe.
   Sand,  dust, lime, &c, may be speedily removed by in-
jecting freely into the eye a mucilage of slippery elm or
flax seed.  Warm milk and water may be  used for the
same purpose, but is not as good,  as it lacks the  adhesive
properties of the mucilage. I have been infoimed by those
who have tried it, that a flax seed put into the eye is supe-
rior to  an eye stone to remove dust,  &c.   Vinegar, if ap-
plied immediately, will neutralize alkalies.
                DISEASES OF THE LIVER.
   The liver is the largest organ in the human system, and
is situated in  the right side immediately  under  the ribs.
It is divided into two lobes, the  left of which extends over
the stomach considerably to the left side,  and sometimes
causes pain  in that region when that part of the liver is
diseased.  Wrhen we take into  consideration the office of
the liver, which is to prepare and secrete th8 bile, and fil-
ter and purify the blood, we cannot wonder that a diseased
action of the  whole system should soon follow a diseased
state of the liver.
   The diseases of the liver are acute and chronic inflam-
mation, tubercles and induration  or scirrhus and ulcers.
The characteristic symptoms of  the  acute  stage of this
disease,  are  a pungent pain and  sense of bloating in the
right side of  the abdomen, which is increased by motion
or pressure, extending thence to the top of the shoulder
blade,  and between  the  shoulders.   Difficulty of breath-
ing, tongue  coated, excessive thirst,  costiveness, loss of
appetite, hard, full, quick pulse, dry cough, sense of weight
and pain in the extremities, great irritability of  the stom-
ach and system generally, vomiting bilious  matter, a pe-
culiar  burning  sensation at the surface,  and a  sense  of
weight and pain when lying on the left side, are common
symptoms of this disease.
   In the chronic stage, the pain and other symptoms are 
164
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
less acute, and extends under the  shoulder blade and be-
tween the shoulders, accompanied with a sense of weari-
ness in the back of the neck.
  In the acute stage,  give a full dose of cathartic pow-
ders,  cathartic infusion,  or anti-bilious  pills, bathe  the
feet, apply draughts to them, and foment the side affected.
(Page 89.) Should a thorough perseverance in this course
fail to give relief, after the operation of the physic, give
the anodyne drops or powders, accompanied by sudorific
infusions, (see class 24)  and also continue the fomenting
applications, and if the patient does not find relief at least
in twenty-four hours,  give an emetic,  which may  be re-
peated if necessary, and repeat also, such a part of the
previous directions as the case  may  require.  Emetics
should occasionally be employed.
  Anti-bilious infusion, and alterative cleansing powders,
the detergent laxative powders, or the laxative anti-bilious
pills should be used as alteratives.
  In  the cronic stage of this disease, as well as for a tu-
bercular or inaurated state of the liver, a  free use  of ca-
thartics, and in most cases emetics  also, are highly im-
portant.   The alteratives  above named, and many others
may be used  as the symptoms require, particularly the
laxative  powders, anti-dyspeptic nerve powders,  laxative
pills, anti-dyspeptic cathartic pills, &c.  The anti-bilious
beer, and laxative  beer will be found to be valuable auxil-
iaries.
  The medicines  must be frequently  changed, or  they
goon  lose their effect.  The wet  sheet bath and banda-
ges are recommended in all cases of inflammation.
                        DROPSY.
   By the term dropsy, we understand an unnatural accu-
mulation of serous fluid, either locally seated in some  of
the organs, or diffused through the whole system, and ma-
terially interfering with the functions of life.
   This disease, as well as all other diseases, has a- variety
of causes, the  most common  of  which are obstructions
caused by sudden  cold,  when in free perspiration, long 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
165
continued labor beyond the strength, the drying up of is-
sues, profuse evacuations ; and, in short, any derangement
of the regular order of the circulating fluids, may cause
the disease.
   Different names are given to this disease  when differ-
ently located.  It is called (Hydrocephalus,) when  seat-
ed in the brain, which is known by the enlargement of the
head, sometimes to a prodigious size, dilation or contrac-
tion of the pupil of the eye,  at first slow, and afterward
exceedingly quick, pulse, squinting of the eyes, the child
frequently throws up its  hands to  its head,  is constantly
moaning with occasional shrieks, is finally convulsed, and
if it longer survives sinks into insensibility.
   When it is seated in the chest, it is called (hydrotho-
rax,) which is attended by a difficulty of breathing, espe-
cially after exercise, after meals, or when in a horizontal
position, dry cough, which after a  while is attended with
a discharge of thin mucus, and  the  urine  is scanty and
high colored.   Palpitation, and intermission of the pulse,
are also common symptoms.   These and  other afflicting
symptoms continue to increase if not removed.
   The other varieties of this  disease are easily known
by their  location.   Dropsy in the  pericardinum  (hydro-
pericardium) is usually connected with the above.  Drop-
sy in the abdomen (ascites)  may be distinguished from
dropsy in the ovaria, (asciteovarii) by passing the finger
up the vaginia.  If in the ovarium, a tumor may be felt on
one side which is moveable when in a horizontal position.
   In dropsy  of the womb, (hydrops-uteri)  the enlarge-
ment is confined to the region of  the uterus, and yields a
pressure with a sense of fluctuation, and  the urine  is not
diminished in quantity.
   Dropsy of the scrotum, (hydrocele) consists of a collec-
tion of water in the coats of the testicle.  The tumor in-
creases slowly, with an elastic  appearance, and some-
times a fluctuation of water is perceptible.  This can ea-
sily be known from a rupture, as the tumor does not re-
cede when in a horizontal position, as  does the rupture. 
166
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
   The cellular dropsy, (anasarca) consists of an unnatu-
 ral collection of watery fluid and consequent enlargement
 throughout the whole system.
   In the  treatment of every variety of this disease, the
 object should be to remove the superfluous water from the
 system, by promoting the natural evacuations, support the
 strength in the mean time,  and improve the health so  as
 to prevent a return  of the disease.   The wet sheet bath,
 and heating bandages lightly  applied to the  part affected,
 are highly recommended.
   Dropsy of the brain requires cooling applications to the
 head, such as vinegar or spirits, and  rain water, or the
 three combined, to  which a little  salt may be added,- and
 applied either warm or cold, as shall appear to be most  a-
 greeable; or the whole head may be enveloped in several
 thicknesses of basswood or black  maple  leaves,  kept
 moist by the vinegar, &c. as above named, or by any oth-
 er harmless application which may give relief.
   Dropsy of the scrotum or testicle, requires frequent fo-
 menting applications to the diseased part, particularly with
 an infusion of bittersweet, hemlock boughs or smartweed,
 and the scrotum should be suspended in a linen sack at-
 tached to a girdle round the waist.  In other respects the
 different varieties require similar treatment.  The first ob-
ject should be  to create and maintain a healthy  action  at
 the surface  by the application of the wet sheet and fric-
 tion, or by frequently bathing  the feet  in alkali or scoke-
 root preparations, (pages 89,  90,) and  the whole  surface
 once or twice a day in vinegar and soft  water, followed by
 the use of the  flesh  brush or soft flannel, rubbing the sur-
 face of the body  downward, and  of  the  limbs  toward
 the body.   This must be done  as often  and as thoroughly
 as the health and strength of the patient will admit.  Parts
 which require it, should be supported by bandages.   Hv-
 dragogue cathartics  and diuretics must be occasionally ad-
 ministered ; and perspiration promoted by the use of su-
 dorifics.   The strength, at the  same time, must be sup-
 ported by the use of sedatives and tonics.  Draughts are 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
167
important.   As a common cathartic, no one probably will
have a better effect than  the detergent cathartic powders.
Dose, one half to a O  to be repeated in six or eight hours,
until a free cathartic operation is produced, and afterward
as the case may require.   Cathartic powders and cream of
lartar  equal  quantities,  and  yellow  cathartic powders,
are also good  to be used as  the above.  In obstinate
cases  hydragogue cathartics  should be employed, and
especially  the  elaterium. As a diuretic and sedative
in this disease, foxglove infusion may be  used after
the operation  and consequent nausea  of the  cathartic.
Or, diuretic tincture may be used  as the patient can bear.
The diuretic beer may also be used to great  advantage.
As a sudorific and sedative, the anodyne drops in sudorif-
ic infusion may be used.   Further to assist as a sedative,
a dose of the sedative nerve powders should be taken  at
bed time.  Emetics may be administered once a week if
beneficial.   Heat often applied to the surface by the va-
por bath, or, the wet sheet bath, is of great value. To the
above  may be added,  as  occasion may require,  either  of
the articles of Class 11, or the diuretic compounds,  sudo-
rifics and such  tonics  as best suit the case and inclination
of the patient, either bitters, sirups, or infusions.
                     DYSENTERY.
   The  characteristic symptoms  of this disease, are fre-
quent evacuations by stool, which vary in color and con-
sistency,  attended with severe  griping  and  tenesmus.—
Sometimes  the discharge appears like  water in  which
meat has been washed, very fetid in scent, sometimes  a
frothy  mucus with or without being streaked with blood,
and sometimes pure blood, and the feces  if discharged  at
all, appear  only in hard  lumps,  from the discharge of
which, the  patient  experiences temporary relief.  The
causes  are, obstructed perspiration,  unwholesome diet,
night air, damp beds or damp clothes, sudden changes of
weather, and it  sometimes appears to be contagious in
prisons, hospitals, camps, ships, Sic.   To these  may  be
Added  the use of impure water.
   The .treatment should consist of a dose of laxative pow- 
168              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
ders, the sirup of rhubarb, or an infusion or powder of In-
dian physic  sufficient to operate  gently, and  mucilagi-
nous injections, followed by sweating remedies, such  as
anodyne drops, anodyne or sudorific infusion, or an infu-
sion of either of the articles composing Class 24, especi-
ally pyrena.  Bathe the feet and apply draughts and fo-
menting applications to the bowels.   If  this course fail,
give an emetic and follow it with astringent  injections,
especially if there are discharges  of blood.   After the dis-
ease is removed, use the vegetable restorative, or the res-
torative sirup until health be restored.
                      EPILEPSY.
   In this disease, the patient,  if standing or sitting, falls
suddenly and perhaps without the least warning, and  the
whole system  is at once thrown into  violent spasms,  the
teeth gnash violently together, by which  the tongue is fre-
quently severely lacerated, the eyes are  fixed apparently
on some objects,  and froth  mingled  with blood, issues
from the mouth.  Sometimes the fit is preceded by head
ache, ringing in the ears, dimness of sight, giddiness, cold-
ness, Sic, but the paroxysms generally occur in the night,
most frequently toward morning, especially in the confirm-
ed stage.
   The causes of this disease are various.  Blows or wounds
on the head, pressure of the circulation to the head, water
on the brain, deformity or disease of the skull, violent ner-
vous affection, sudden fright, passion, intoxication,  acute
pain, worms, teething, suppression of accustomed evacu-
ations, poison, over fullness of the stomach,  hereditary
predisposition, and derangement of *the stomach and bow-
els, are the  most common causes of the disease.
   During the paroxysm, nothing more can be done than to
keep the patient in as comfortable a situation as possible.
The treatment should consist of emetics, mild  cathartics,
and anti-spasmodics, nervines, tonics and stimulants, used
alternately a few days each.
   This course has cured, a number of cases of this  dis-
ease, in which other treatment had failed.  The exercise
must be moderate, and alight suppert if ajay, is. necessary. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              169
            ERYSIPELAS. (ST. ANTONv's FIRE.)
  This disease is most  frequently induced by  a sudden
exposure to cold or damp air, while  in a perspiration  or
very warm.   It is probable that the system is predisposed
to the  disease by acrid secretions  being retained in the
system, which produce a painful stinging, itching, smart-
ing, burning, irritable and distressing sensation.
  The surface is of  a shining redness; and is sometimes
elevated  by small blisters,  from which exudes  a watery
fluid, or a transparent, or, a yellow jelly substance is de-
posited, and sometimes pus.   These  may also  terminate
favorably ; or ulcers may be formed of greater or less  mag-
nitude, and are sometimes very distressing.   Deep seated
ulcers sometimes form,  generally on the leg, from which
the disease is sometimes communicated to a  wound  on a
healthy person.   This disease, in some cases, affects the
eyes and  ears, face,  head and throat, and is  of such  fear-
ful magnitude, that without prompt and efficient remedies,.
will soon  bid defiance to the skill of man.
  Sudorific remedies, the black drops,  the vapor bath and
the emetic, are important.  A dose  of the  detergent ca-
thartic powders or other cathartics,, should be administer-
ed as the  symptoms require, and bathe  frequently with the-
erysipelas tincture.   Poultices of salted wheat bran mois-
tened with vinegar, or a slice of salt pork should be kept
constantly on the throat, and a dose of the black drops ad-
ministered two or three times a day.   In  case  of ulcers,
use poultices, washes, ointments or salves,  as necessary.
In the  chronic  stage, use  detergents, nervines, Sic, in.
addition.  The diet should consist  exclusively of vegeta-
bles, easy of digestion.
                FAINTING OR SWOONING.
  This is usually preceded by a distross at  the  stomach,
an unusual tremulous sensation, accompanied with a sense
of fullness about the heart, pressure, confusion and giddi-
ness of the head, dimness of sight,  cold extremities,  Sic
   The patient  should  be placed in a  horizontal position
and enjoy a free circulation of pure  air.  Immediately re- 
170
MEDICAL
BOTANIST.
move every obstruction to a free circulation  of the blood ;
and, if possible, immerse the feet in warm water and rub
the extremities thoroughly with warm flannel.   Dash cold
water on the face with a quick motion from the hand  wet
in it, or apply camphorated spirits to the nose and blow its
fumes into the nostrils ;  and,  as soon  as the patient  can
swallow, a few  drops  of the  essence of peppermint, or
camphorated spirits will  give great  relief.   A dose of bit-
ters, sirup or tincture, may also be administered, if  ne-
cessary.   Those subject to fainting  should strenuously
avoid every known cause, such as the sight of blood, vi-
olent passion or exercise, frightful  or disgusting sights or
odors, confined air in a warm room, crowded assemblies,
intense study, Sic   The health should be improved by
bathing in the morning, (page 83,)  and by useful  employ-
ment.
                        FEVER.
   The term  Fever is applied  to all  diseases  in which
there is a greater degree of heat in the system  than  in a
state of health, and this  increased heat is usually spoken
of as the origin of  the "disease, when in.fact,  it  is only
one of the symptoms of diseased action.
   The heat of the system is maintained and the circula-
tion of the  fluids invigorated by the oxygen received into
the blood in its passage through the  lungs, and by the  ab-
sorption of caloric at the surface.   When  the operations
of nature are duly performed, the influence thus obtained
is only sufficient to preserve a  due temperature of heat, to
invigorate both solids and fluids, that they  may regularly
perform their functions.
   When these regular operations of nature are prevented
by obstructions, the heat is retained in the system, which,
in a state of health passes off at the surface  insensibly;
and the heat is greatly increased by the extra quantity of
oxygen inhaled in consequence of the hurried breathing,
and by the  extra quantity of caloric absorbed at the sur-
face in consequence o( the dryness of the skin,  and the
increased excitability of the nervous system.  The circu- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
171
lating fluids,  too, at  once become vitiated for the want of
regular  action, and of course,  the secretions and excre-
tions arc unhealthy.
  When obstructions prevent the  fluids from performing
their regular   functions,  alternate chills and heat will be
experienced until the obstructions are removed,  either by
the operations of nature unassisted, by  the  assistance ot
remedies, or  until the excitement shall increase sufficient-
ly to maintain the power of heat, which is called a settled
fever.   It  is a well  established  fact,  that  more passes
from the system by insensible perspiration than by all oth-
er evacuations combined;  therefore the  excessive  pres-
sure throughout the system, dullness and inactivity of body
and mind,°pain, a quick full pulse, hurried breathing, &c,
are easily  accounted for. when this  important evacuation
is retained by obstructions.  Does this state  of things
show an increase of the blood which requires an evacua-
tion by the lance, of that vital fluid ? and that the obstruc-
tions must be treated as if they were some  monstrous an-
imal which must be brought to terms of submission or to
death, by the agency of deadly poisons ?
   If a man in a state of health could swallow poison with
 impunity,  and lose his blood without debility, it might do
 to resort to poison  and bloodshed for the removal oi dis-
 ease ; but  this, instead of removing  the disease  from the
 patient, takes  the opposite direction and removes the  pa-
 tient from  the disease.   Is such  practice the legitimate
 offspring of science, reason and philosophy ?  Tell it not.
 It is in direct opposition to the  laws of nature, and, con-
 sequently, a prolific source of debility, disease and death.
 In a case  of  fever, three important considerations present
 themselves,  viz : the obstructions at the surface, the rest-
 lessness and pain, and the vitiated  state of  the  fluids in
 consequence of  diseased action.
    If by any  means  the obstructions are removed, restless-
 ness and  pain cease, and vitiated accumulations are thrown
 off in copious  evacuations, either by perspiration, by
 stool, or Ijy  urine.   Nature would not  often fail of  this 
172
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
spontaneous crisis were she left  to herself ; but when in
addition to the disease, her powers are enfeebled by irri-
tating prescriptions, blood letting, Sic, nature is thwarted
in her designs, and of course inadequate  to the task as-
signed her by the interposition of art.
   Cases in which there is an excessive continuation  of
heat, dryness of  the skin,  quick  full pulse, pain in the
head and back, thirst, pressure at the stomach and through-
out the system, hurried  breathing, Sic, appears to  indi-
cate the necessity for definite and prompt remedies.   In
a case of this kind, the  wet  sheet bath is recommended
as a remedy of the first importance and utility,  and its ap-
plication is certainly sanctioned by philosophy, as it pre-
vents in a great degree, the absorption of caloric at the
surface,  tranquilizes, and if  persevered in, removes  ob-
structions by sweating.
   In slight cases, a few doses of fever powders and sudo-
rifics  are sufficient; but in  a severe attack, if  the wet
sheet bath is not adopted, bathe the feet and apply draughts,
(pages 89, 92,) and administer sudorifics,  and  in case of
much pain give also the anodyne drops or powders.  Give
also a quarter of a dose of detergent cathartic powders,
the cathartic powders, cathartic  infusion or  mandrake,
Class 8, once an hour or two.  The whole  surface should
be bathed in  the  alkali preparation, or pure soft water ei-
ther cold or warm, as shall be most  agreeable  to the pa-
tient, once in four or six hours at most. Should this course
fail to arrest the progress of  the fever, after the operation
of the cathartic has subsided,  administer the anti-bilious
or other fever powders,  in connection with the sudorific
medicines, bathing, draughts, &c, and if the fever contin-
ue after pursuing this course  for twenty-four hours, give an
emetic,  (page. 73,) which should  be followed  by the ca-
thartic,  fever powders, bathing, Sic, if  necessary.   Cold
water may generally be freely drank, to which  may be oc-
casionally added lemon or  other  conserve.   For  local
pain in  the back, side, Sic, foment the part with  hops or
 other applications.  (Seepage 89.)  This course will very 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
173
soon remove the disease from the patient and leave him in
the enjoyment of health.
  In hearing cases related of patients lingering week af-
ter  week with one fever after another, I am reminded of
the decision of a coroner's jury "down  east,"  who were
called  together to inquire into the probable cause of the
death of a man found drifted ashore, whence he was  car-
ried to a store house for examination the next day.   After
examining all available testimony in the  case, the jury de-
cided " that the man  fell from  a  mast and  was killed,
that he then fell overboard and was drowned, that he drift-
ed ashore and was froze to death, was then carried to the
store house  where the rats eat him up alive."
   In the typhus fever, which  is characterised by stupor,
the.symptoms first appear in a mild form, from any cause
calculated to debilitate the system and impair digestion ;
but is more  frequently the result of removing the patient
from the disease in case  of a simple fever.
   The countenance is pale and dejected,  the eyes dull
and heavy, tremor of the extremities, sense  of weariness,
oppression of the chest, nausea and vomiting,  pain in the
head and back, gidiness, confusion of intellect,prostration
of strength, and faintness when an attempt is made to sit
up.  The tongue is dry, at first white and afterward coat-
ed with a dark brown fur, yet the patient does not often
complain of thirst, gums  red, dry and  coated with mu-
cus, and  teeth crusted.   The  pulse is feeble, frequent
and irregular.   Cold clammy sweat may appear upon the
back of the hands, while on the inside and on every other
part of the surface the skin is dry and contracted.  Spasms
may be frequent in various parts of the body, loss of sleep,
 delirium,  and  sometimes a cough attends   with  bloody
 expectorations..  These, and otller symptoms,  continue to
 increase sometimes for weeks, with an entire prostration
 of muscular,  mental  and nervous energy.   When it ter-
 minates favorably, it generally subsides about the four-
 teenth or fifteenth day by diarrhoea or perspiration, and it
 sometimes continues  thirty or forty days and then subsides 
171
1UEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 without  any visible crisis.  In this  disease, the  use of
 the wet  sheet  bath is strongly indicated.   Otherwise, in
 order to effect a cure in this disease, a mild yet thorough
 cleansing course both  internally and  externally, must be
 pursued.  The emetic should not be repeated if an unfa-
 vorable effect is produced, in which  case  the  main de-
 pendence must be placed in the  use of cathartics, anti-
 bilious fever powders, sudorifics, bathing applications and
 draughts, as previously recommended for fevers,  and in
 case of pain  in the head, or derangement, the cathartic in-
 fusion should be  preferred to other cathartics.  In the
 sinking stage of this disease, wine  or brandy  and water
 may be administered, so as  to keep up  the  pulse.  The
 internal use of  anti-septics,  in some  cases, is highly im-
 portant.  (Class 4.)
  Spotted Fever.—Though the leading  features of this
 disease were always similar, yet there was agreat variation
 in the symptoms.  Some were seized with a violent pain in
 the stomach, joints or limbs,and in some cases the pain was
 confined  to a single point, even to a finger or toe.   Some
 shook violently.yet were not sensible of cold; some were at
 once deprived of sight, some of hearing ;  others  were
 unaffected in those organs.   Some were affected with pal-
 sy of some members, or strange numbness  in some part,
 others, with raving delirium, mirthfulness, unusual shrewd-
 ness,  snoring lethargic sleep from which nothing  could
arouse the  patient,  and a sense  of sinking without the
least apparent concern.  These, and many  other symp-
 toms have been witnessed, while this awful malady pre-
 vailed.
  When  the  spotted  fever prevailed, sweating remedies,
(and an infusion of hemlock  boughs was extensively used
 for this purpose, both inte*ially and  for fomenting applica-
 tions externally,) saved many from the grave, while deple-
 tive prescriptions, as in most malignant  diseases, hurried
 on the disease to a fatal termination.  It is  highly proba-
 ble that the anodyne drops and powders, as well as  many
 other cleansing and sudorific remedies named in this work, 
. MEDICAL BOTANIST.
179
would be invaluable auxiliaries.  In all cases of fever or
other diseases attended with symptoms leading  to putre-
faction, a strong infusion of smartweed or pyrena, brewers
yeast and charcoal, may be freely used internally and ex-
ternally, or in poultice, in connection  with  such a part ol
the directions already given, as the case may  appear to
demand.   Cathartics, sudorifics and bathing applications
are always important in fevers.  Emetics are safe  when
a free perspiration at the surface can be  easily  maintain-
ed, and are also important to cleanse the stomach, and in
some cases, to produce perspiration.
   Remittent Fever is that form of fever in which " one
paroxysm succeeds another so quickly that the patient is
not without some  degree of fever " for from two to eight
days, when a partial crisis  by  sweating takes place called
a  remission, by which the patient is  greatly relieved for
a  short time, when  the  symptoms again  return.   This
happens however, only when the proper remedies are not
used.  It is called
   Billions Remittent when the  discharges  by vomiting
and  stool, and the system generally has a billious appear-
ance.  This fever is produced by the  same causes as the
intermittent fever, and requires similar treatment, except
that  in this, a more  free use of emetics, cathartics  and
tonics are necessary.
   The Chill Fever, as it is called, is also produced by
the same  causes and requires similar treatment, except
that  this  generally requires a more free use  of stimulants
in addition to the above.
                    FEVER  SORE.
   This commences on the bone with an obtuse pain, which
increases and sometimes rapidly and seriously affects the'
whole system  with  common  symptoms  of fever.  The
swelling in the diseased part, is  attended  with  redness,
great inflammation and sensitiveness,  and the patient  ex-
periences severe  chills.
   The cold or refrigerant bandages, (page  84,) should be
applied with persevering diligence so long as  heat  and 
176
MEDICAL BOTANTST.
pain remain ; after which the German or other liniments
may be applied once in four or eight hours.
  The general health must be  improved by the use of
such remedies as the symptoms may require.   The deter-
gent sirup and accompanying wash must be used as soon as
inflammatory symptoms shall be subdued and  continued
until  the symptoms subside.  Blue clay moistened with
vinegar, or warm fresh meat are good applications, when
they are necessary to subdue inflammation.
                   FITS  AND SPASMS.
  A few brisk magnetic passes will generally control  fits
and  spasms.  These sometimes occur unattended with a
regular train of symptoms or other .appearance of diseas-
ed action.
  In such cases, the anti-spasmodic tincture, nervine tinc-
ture,  and  vegetable  anti-convulsive,   are  invaluable.—
These should be assisted by bathing the feet,  the warm
bath, draughts, Sic,  and fomenting  applications  to any
part which might appear  particularly affected.   Use med-
icine to improve the health, with which the wet sheet bath,
in most cases, will prove a valuable auxiliary.
                  GENERAL DEBILITY.
  Languor and universal  debility  sometimes prevails,
when no particular disease can be traced  as the  cause.
The patient is not usually afflicted with pain, nor is appe-
tite  wanting, yet a sense of trembling, prostration and fa-
tigue is experienced after exercise, even though it be  but
trifling.
   Administer the anti-dyspeptic bitters, until a free ca-
thartic operation is produced, when the vegetable restora-
tive or restorative sirup or other tonics should be used for
five or six days, and then change to the bitters as before,
and use the bitters or other laxatives and tonics alternate-
ly five or six days each.   If other symptoms occur, meet
them with their appropriate remedies.   The anti-bilious or
other preparations of beer, may also prove highly  benefi-
cial.  The wet sheet bath, or shower bath,  every morn-
ing, will prove valuable auxiliaries. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
177
                        GOUT.
  Different  names are given to this disease when differ-
ently located.   It is called regular gout when the  swell-
ing and inflammation is confined  principally  to the joint
of the great toe or other small joints, and finally disappears
without materially impairing the health otherwise.  It is
called  retrocedent gout, when the pain is suddenly trans-
ferred  to the head,  the  lungs, the heart or the stomach;
and, misplaced gout,  when instead of producing inflam-
mation and  pain in the  joints,  seats upon some internal
part, giving rise to symptoms which attend the inflamma-
tion of those parts from other causes.
   This  disease  sometimes comes on suddenly,  and at
other times is preceded by unusual  coldness of the lower
extremities, and sometimes a pricking sensation is experi-
enced in those parts.  Flatulency, nausea, dejection of
spirits, a sense of excessive fatigue after  slight exercise,
costiveness and pale urine, are  premonitory symptoms.
Females  and men  under  thirty-five or forty, and those
who labor, and live on plain, simple  food are seldom afflict-
ed with the gout in any of its forms.
   A free indulgence in the use of animal food, highly sea-
soned delicacies, spirituous or  fermented liquors, and a
want of active exercise, are the chief causes of this  dis-
tressing malady.
   When this  disease is transferred to,  or] seated in the
head, violent pain, giddiness, and perhaps apoplexy or pal-
sy may be the consequence.  If to the lungs, an affection
similar to asthma. If to the heart, fainting and palpitation.
If to  the  stomach,  eructations,  nausea, vomiting, dejec-
tion, want of energy, cramp, and  sometimes obstinate cos-
tiveness aud sometimes a relax. .
    This disease usually comes on in the night,  and after
 enduring excruciating pain for a  number of hours the pa-
 tient falls asleep, and on awaking  finds the diseased  part
 swelled and inflamed, yet, comparatively, free from pain.
 If the disease approximates to a favorable termination, the
 paroxysms return with less severity, and finally go off en-
      vol.  i.               12 
178    .          MEDICAL BOTANIST.
tirely by perspiration or free evacuations otherwise, and
leaves a degree of lameness.   In the  treatment  of this
disease, the natural evacuations must be promoted.  Bathe
the feet in a decoction of scoke root or other preparations,
(page 89,) and apply draughts  or  poultices, or nervine or
other liniment to  the diseased part, and keep it shielded
from the air.   The stomach and bowels must be cleansed
by emetics and cathartics, and diuretics and sudorifics em-
ployed as freely as the strength and circumstances of the
patient will  admit.   The wet sheet bath, as a valuable
auxiliary, cannot be  questioned.
   In order to avoid a return  of  this disease, the  patient
should adopt a plain simple diet at proper  intervals, and
have regular hours  for rest,  ami  useful, active employ-
ment.
                  GRAVEL AND STONE.
   By the term gravel is  understood a collection of sand-
like particles in the  urinary organs and passages, which
seldom unite in large bodies;  and by the term stone is to
be understood the formation of calculous  concretions in
the kidneys or bladder, which when formed, are constant-
ly increasing in size, by an accumulation on their surface.
   A stone in the  bladder is known by the pain while pas-
sing urine, especially when the discharge ceases,  and af-
ter ; frequent inclination  to void urine,  great difficulty in
discharging it, and  by its stopping suddenly when free ;
a violent  pain while riding on horseback  or in a  jolting
wagon, by a thick mucous  sediment, or blood discharged
with urine ; by an inclination to go to stool while passing
urine ; by a more free discharge of urine while in  a hori-
zontal than in an erect position, by the testicles being drawn
upward, and one or both thighs benumbed, and by  a sense
of weight or  a dull pain  in the back, Sec.   The mode of
treatment adopted should be  calculated to improve the
health, in addition to which, while afflicted with the stone,
use the black drops, mucilaginous drinks, diuretics and fo-
menting applications to the bowels.
   For farther directions  in this complaint, see Class 18, 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
179
     HEADACHE, UNATTENDED WITH INFLAMMATION.
  This afflicting complaint is caused either by foul stom-
ach, costiveness, obstructions or a pressure of blood to the
head, a  want of or too much sleep, intense application to
study, &c.  When caused by  foul stomach, the cathartic
infusion or an emetic or both are proper;  when by costive-
ness follow the directions given for that  complaint;  if by
obstructions in the head use errhines, (class 15,) if by a
determination of blood to  the  head  the  stimulating bit-
ters  should be used ; if by debility it is called nervous or
sick-headache,  and for this variety the headache drops
have proved a sovereign  remedy  in  many cases.   If by
the want of or too much sleep adopt regular hours for rest
and exercise,  if by intense study engage in useful and
active employment and study less.
  Bathing the feet (page  89) and bathing the  head with
cold water or the anodyne tincture, are of great  value in
every variety of headache.  Also, Davis' stomachic pills.
                     HEARTBURN.
  This distressing complaint is caused  by acrimonious
fluid in the stomach, and may be excited by irritating sub-
stances or  fluid received into the stomach,  while the
stomach is thus predisposed to the complaint.   Cleanse
the stomach with cathartics and  emetics,  each once  a
week and use antacids, (class 2) or the laxative powders,
as the case may require.   Magnesia taken so as  to move
the bowels gently is  an  invaluable remedy.  This  com-
plaint when severe is very afflicting, and requires prompt
attention.
                      HEPITALGA.
   This is a disease to which  females are liable while in
the prime of life, who are compelled either from ambition
or  necessity to labor beyond  their  strength.  The  first
symptom of the disease is a fixed pain a little to  the left
from the pit of the stomach,  to the stomach, and, finally to
the  whole system, prostrating the  strength and  causing
dyspeptic symptoms and those of general and nervous de-
bility.   The disease is caused by exerting the muscles to 
180              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
action beyond what they are able to  endure, or rather by
continuing such action.   This disease is  exceeding hard
to cure, especially without the greatest degree of quietude
and  freedom from   care, anxiety  and  labor.    There-
fore the first symptom of the disease should bid the patient
beware of the danger which the constant exercise of the
muscles will create, and adopt  lighter employment.   A
strengthening plaster should be worn on the part affected,
which  should be removed once or twice  a day while the
part is  bathed with the anodyne tincture or nervine lini-
ment, or  with each once  a day.   Symptoms of dyspepsia,
debility, Sic, must be treated according to  the directions
given for the cure  of those diseases.  I have  found the
wet sheet bath a valuable auxiliary in this as well as other
diseases attended with nervous debility.
                      HICCOUGH.
  This is a spasmodic action of the stomach and  midriff.
It is sometimes caused by overloading the stomach either
with food or fluid—strong drink in particular; by wind in
the stomach, or, by internal inflammation.
  If caused by over-fulness of the stomach either by food,
wind or weak fluid, a dose of  some stimulating prepa-
ration in  spirits will generally afford immediate relief.  A
full draught of cold water is also very good ; or, a sudden
change in the mind.  Inquire of the afflicted individual
whether it does not hurt him  to make such a noise, or any
other simple question concerning the hiccough, or interest
the mind deeply in any way, and the spasm will generally
immediately cease.   If by the use of strong drink, a full
draught of new milk will not often fail to stop the spasm.
  The worst case of hiccough I ever knew from internal
inflammation, was instantaneously relieved  by a draught
of the infusion of the cuckold leaves  given for  another
purpose,  after every  trial to  stop the spasm had proved
fruitless—mild means  calculated to subdue  inflammation
are probably the only proper  remedies in such cases.
                    HOOPING COUGH.
   This is a contagious disease and is characterized by a 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.              181
loud hooping sound in drawing the breath while coughing.
A free use of expectorating medicines is strongly indica-
ted in this complaint, in as much as vomiting affords relief.
From two to six drops of the anti-spasmodic tincture, or
from six drops to half a O of either kind of cough drops
should be given once in six or eight hours in an infusion
of catnip or chamomile, after being dropped on sugar. The
alterative cleansing powders or other expectorants, (see
class  16,) and sirups may be advantageously used, and an
emetic occasionally may  be of great importance.  The
bowels should be kept loose  by the use of laxatives, but
active cathartics should  not be employed.   Some good
mothers speak very highly of the  application night  and
morning  of soft oil between the shoulders and  over the
lungs ; others apply  sticking plasters  in those places.
Both  are attended  with benefit.  It  is outrageously inhu-
man to permit your tender offspring to cough until it faints
away without doing something for its relief.
                    HYPOCHONDRIA.
  The characteristic symptoms of  this  complaint are the
apprehension  of  great danger without  sufficient  cause,
such  as fear of poverty while blest with abundance ;  of
approaching death, &c.   Sometimes, too, the  imagina-
tion leads its victim  to conclusions  still more absurd, the
reality of which must be  admitted  in order to facilitate a
cure, of which the following from  Ewell's Medical Com-
panion is an illustration :
  " Mr.  B.  had for a long time been laboring under the
awful sensations  caused by the  hypochondriac affection,
and on being inquired of by his physician  concerning his
health, he declared that he had died at twelve o'clock the
preceding night.   This being admitted by his physician
and friends, poor Mr.  B. voluntarily  entered his  coffin,
and was carried to the grave yard.  On the way, the pro-
cession was met by a number, who, on enquiry, were in-
formed that it was poor Mr. B., and all declared  their joy
at the death of so infamous  a character.   At  length, Mr.
B., finding himself the subject of the most vile  epithets, 
182
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
 and that his death caused so much joy to  all who were
 made  acquainted  with it, concluded to bear it no longer.
 He burst the lid from his coffin, made a pass at the calum-
 niator of his  character,  when a race  commenced, from
 which Mr. B.  returned  to his house,  where he lived for
 many years without the least return of the disorder.
   Another man fancied that he had a bottle  growing from
 the end of his  nose, and  would not be persuaded to  the
 contrary, either by the reasoning or ridicule  of  his physi-
 cian or friends.   A physician on hearing the particulars of
 the whim,  who lived  at  a distance, purchased a bottle
 corresponding in size with the imagined one, and proceed-
 ed to effect a cure.  On  entering the  room  in which the
 patient was confined, he affectedly expressed great aston-
 ishment  at seeing a bottle at the end  of  a  man's nose.
 The sufferer was greatly delighted to find that another
 person could realize how much he suffered,  and earnestly
 entreated for relief.   He  readily consented  to be blind-
 folded when the doctor applied the bottle to the nose, and
 gave it such a twist as to  lacerate the  affected part, and
 the cure  was thereby  effected  to  the great joy of the pa-
 tient.
   Another  man, on whoge case  the attending physician
 had exhausted  his skill  without  benefit,  had frequently
 urged upon him the importance of his  taking a journey,
 but this he could not prevail upon  him to do.  At  length
 the doctor informed him that there was a physician in a
 certain city, about sixty miles distant who was very noted
 for his skill in such complaints;  and as his business was
 very extensive, he could not be  persuaded, under  any
consideration, to leave the city in which he  resided, and,
therefore, advised him, to lose no time in availing himself
of his skill, which he  considered his  only  hope.  The
patient finally yielded to the proposal, and on  arriving at
the proposed city, made diligent inquiry for the celebrated
doctor, but  he could  not  be  found.   Day after day was
spent in fruitless exertions, until  he became  satisfied that
no such person was known in the  city.   He  then return- 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.              183
ed eager to wreak his vengeance on the doctor, for the
imposition he  had practised upon him ;  and,  on arri-
ving at home  caused him  immediately to be called in,
when he  inquired of  him why  he bad abused  him so.
Why do you accuse me of abuse, says  the doctor, you
are well, are  you not ?  Yes, but no thanks  to you, was
the stern reply.   To this the doctor replied—"sir,  I had
prescribed for you until I found I could not help you, and
I could not prevail upon  you to  travel, until I persuaded
you to go for the sake of visiting a celebrated physician.
By this you were encouraged  to  take  the journey, and
your anxiety  to find the doctor kept up your spirits ; and
on your return you have been equally anxious to scold me.
Your journey, sir has  greatly  benefitted you, in  which I
heartily rejoice."
   The medicines used in this complaint  must be mild and
soothing.   Obviate costiveness, debility,  Sic, by appro-
priate remedies.   (See directions.)  Change of scenery,
diverting employment and agreeable companions are in-
dispensably necessary in this complaint.
   When a man sits down  to brood over troubles with
which  he is unacquainted,  except in  imagination,  he
exhibits himself  as a victim  to his own folly.  It  were
detter  to  brave  a thousand real misfortunes, than be de-
pressed by one  either real  or imaginary.  Persevering
biligence  in useful employment, will in most cases, out
ride the storms of adversity,  and secure  a competence of
this world's goods ;  prevent any desire to blow out your
own brains ;  to hang  yourself up as  a  fool, or, of taking
passage to another world by  water.
                      HYSTERICS.
   The peculiarities of this complaint, which appears only
in the female sex, are, a sense of suffocation, by an imag-
ined ball  rising in the throat,  a rumbling noise in the
bowels, difficulty of breathing, and sometimes the breath
stops for minutes together either with or without  spasms.
 Sometimes the breathing cannot be perceived for an hour
or more, while the pulse  are regular.   Alternate fits of 
184              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 crying and  laughing, stupor, temporary  delirium, and a
 thousand and one other symptoms which  are never adver-
 tised in advance of their appearance, will harass  the  pa-
 tient, which, however dreadful they may  appear, are sel-
• dom accompanied with danger.
   In the  time  of the  paroxysm those   present should
 see that the patient is in a comfortable position, where she
 can enjoy a free circulation of air, with her head a little
 elevated ;  that the circulation is not obstructed by tight
 lacing or by articles around  the neck,  and that she shall
 not be permitted to bite herself or others, or pull out her
 own hair,  and if possible bathe the feet.   (Page 89.)
   From one to six drops (or even  two or three times that
 quantity if the stomach can bear it) of the anti-spasmodic
 tincture may be  administered and repeated so as to pro-
 duce vomiting even in the time of  the paroxysm, or at any
 other time, will always prove beneficial.
   It may be necessary to  repeat this or the emetic once
 a week.   The  nervine tincture  or  other nervines (See
 class 20) and tonics,  laxative powders, or other  laxative
 preparations must be used whenever  they are necessary.
 Change of scenery and agreeable  company are very  im-
 portant, in all cases of this complaint.
   In attempting  to restore  health, the wet sheet  bath
 is  an  invaluable auxiliary.   For  faintness or  stupor,
 sprinkle cold water with a quick motion freely in the face,
 and the colder the water the better ; or apply camphora-
 ted spirits to the nose and blow its  fumes into the nostrils.
               INCONTINENCE OF URINE.
   This complaint consists in an  inability  to retain  the
 urine for any length of time, which often subjects the af-
 flicted individual  to great inconvenience and sometimes to
 severe affliction.
   The utmost pains should be taken to prevent children
 from wetting the bed; for, if they are indulged in this until
 the habit is formed, and continued until the texture of the
 bladder becomes  firm, it will rarely,  if ever expand to its.
 usual size, and this would create a serious inconvenience 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
185
through  life.   A paralytic  condition or debility of the
sphincter muscle  of the bladder, calculous concretions  in
the bladder, the excessive use of ardent spirits, and the
practice  of onanism may be the cause.  It  may also  be
caused by want of sufficient exercise.  Total abstinence
from any cause calculated to increase or continue the dif-
ficulty must be strenuously observed.   A plaster must  be
worn on the small of the back, and the back  and loins fre-
quently bathed with the anodyne tincture or  strong astrin-
gent infusions, or both  alternately.   On retiring to rest,
take a O of the urinary powders for a week.   The next
week take  a D of tansey juice in a gill of new milk  every
morning.  These repeated for a few weeks, have proved a
remedy in a number of cases.  Three ounces of red beach
bark tinctured in a quart of wine, is highly recommended.
   Dose one to four D s before meals.  For  a child, from
a O to a D .
                INCUBUS--NIGHTMARE.
   This is an  afflicting sensation which comes on while
the individual  is in  a state .between sleeping  and   being
awake, and is  distinguished from a dream by a sense  of
weight upon the chest or  limbs by some imagined ani-
mal or heavy substance from which great danger is appre-
hended, without the  least power to move.  The afflicted
individual is sometimes sensible of the cause of distress,
and  utters  a  frightful incoherent noise.  The sufferer
must be aroused by being  shaken, and sometimes repeat-
ed efforts are required.
   No age or sex are exempt from this awfully afflicting
sensation.  This is caused by a want of action in the cir-
culating fluids, and is speedily relieved and often cured by
the use of the  stimulating bitters.  A few potions of phys-
ic also, are sometime necessary.
   A gentleman in the county of Allegany informs me that
he, by the  advice of a friend had suspended a piece   of
broken saw plate (any bright piece of steel will answer,)
by a string to the headboard of his bedstead,  some two or
three years previous;  since  which, neither himself  or 
186
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
wife had been in the least degree  afflicted with incubus
except when absent from home.
                   INFLAMMATIONS.
  Inflammation of the Lungs.—-This disease  is  produced
by severe cold seated upon the lungs, attended with pres-
Bure and pain in the chest, difficulty of breathing, a dry,
hard cough, dryness of the skin, heat, and thirst, and the
pulse are°quiek, strong and full.   As the disease advances
the pain becomes  seated in one  side,  the  difficulty of
breathing increases, and especially if an attempt be made
to rest in a  horizontal  position.  Coughing or drawing a
full breath greatly agravates and  increases the  pain.  If
the inflammation be not speedily arrested there is danger
of suffocation from an effusion "of blood into the cellular
substance of the lungs which is preceded by a fulness in
the vessels  of the neck, and the face will alter to  a pur-
ple color, which before, perhaps, had been free from  any
material change by the disease.
   This  termination of  the disease takes  place between
the third and seventh days from  the attack.   It may also
terminate fatally by suppuration or gangrene, if the disease
be not properly  treated  in the first stage.
   A  suppuration is preceded  by frequent slight chills, a
mitigation of pain and a sense of fulness in  the diseased
part, and the patient can rest upon the affected side with-
out material uneasiness.  These symptoms attended with
a high degree of fever,  and perhaps delirium, difficulty of
breathing,  acute  pain,  pale,  ghastly  countenance,  and
sinking, irregularity of the pulse denote a fatal termination
of the disease.
   Symptoms which indicate a favorable termination of the
 disease, are, expectoration of white or yellow matter slight-
 ly streaked with blood, a free perspiration over the whole
 surface, a free discharge of  urine, free  evacuations from
 the bowels  ;  and, a hemorrhage from the nose is not un-
 common..
   Treatment:—In order to give relief as speedily as pos-
 sible, the wet sheet bath and bandages should be employed 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
187
at the first appearance of the disease ; otherwise, make a
free use of the  anodyne infusion, sudorific infusion, or
other sudorifics.  (Class  24.)   Employ also  nauseating
doses of the anti-bilious or other fever powders, and bathe
the feet in the alkali  or smart weed preparations, or both
combined.   The bathing should be  continued for at least
half an hour, when draughts must be applied and often re-
newed.   Should these means fail  to produce  a free per-
spiration after a few hours perseverance in their use, the
anodyne drops or the anodyne powders may be  adminis-
tered in connection with the infusion, bathing, &c, instead
of the fever powders and bathe the whole  surface in the
alkali preparation and repeat it once in four or six hours.
Cough powders or  other expectorating medicine must be
freely administered.   Administer also one-fourth of a dose
of the detergent cathartic  powders, cathartic powders, or
mandrake,  once in four hours until a free cathartic opera-
tion is produced ; or if the pain in the head be  severe, the
cathartic infusion should be preferred.  Injections should
be used to move the bowels if necessary, instead of active
cathartics,  after a free cathartic  operation  is produced.
An emetic may be administered once in three or four days
at any time when a  free  perspiration can  be  maintained
over the whole surface.  It must be borne  in mind, how-
ever, that the operation of cathartics and emetics must be
administered at  sufficient intervals from each  other, that
great debility may not follow  their use.  If the cough be
severe the anodyne  cough powders, or other preparations
for cough may be administered at  any time from two to
four hours, so as to allay the irritation of the lungs.  Inha-
ling the vapor of vinegar  or  bitter herbs, or even of pure
water, is highly recommended to remove the tension of
the lungs, and promote  expectoration.  Mucilage of flax
seed or  slippery  elm,  to which a quantity of lemon con-
cerve may be added sufficient to give it a slight acid flavor,
will be found a cooling and  pleasant beverage for a con-
stant drink.  The demulcent compounds may be of great
importance in this disease. 
188               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
   A mustard plaster or fomenting applications should be
applied to any part where pain shall become seated.
   Cough sirups  and tonics may be advantageously em-
ployed after the inflammatory symptoms shall have subsi-
ded.  All cases of internal inflammation except those for
which particular directions  are  given, require sudorifics,
bathing and fomenting applications,  cathartics and emet-
ics, as above directed.
   Inflammation of the. Intestines or Bowels,  is charac-
terized  by  acute pain  in  the bowels greatly increased
by pressure, passing round the navel with a twisting sen-
sation,obstinate costiveness, which, by its long continuance
is the chief cause of the complaint, nausea and vomiting,
high colored urine, quick, hard, and contracted pulse, heat
and great prostration of strength, &c, and requires the feet
bathed,  and fomenting applications, or, a mustard plaster
to the abdomen, and a dose of cathartic powders or other
cathartics administered, the operation of  which must be
encouraged by the use of mucilaginous  or cathartic  in-
jections.  After relief be obtained,  avoid stimulating food
or medicines until the  powers of nature shall be measura-
bly restored.  The use of diaphoretics, laxatives and ton-
ics must be continued  until health be  restored.
   Inflammation of the  Peritoneum  will require  similar
treatment.
   Inflammation of the  Kidneys  and Bladder.—Inflamma-
tion of the Kidneys is characterized by pain  in the kid-
neys which varies from dull  to acute and extends along
the ureters, pain in the small of the back, more or  less
fever, frequent discharges of urine  in  small quantities, of
a  high red color, pain in the groin afid testicle of the side
affected, and the thighs feel benumbed ; and, in the chronic
stage, heat and pain  are experienced  in the  loins.   The
stomach is more or  less affected with eructations, vomit-
ing, Sic
   Inflammation  of  the Bladder is characterized  by an
acute burning pain and tension in the region of the blabber
end urethra, a constant desire  to  void urine,  attended 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
189
with partial or total suppression, a frequent inclination to
go to stool, uneasiness, heat, quick, hard pulse, and some-
times sickness  and vomiting.  In the chronic stage these
symptoms are very afflicting, and mucus or blood is fre-
quently discharged.
   These diseases require sudorifics, bathing and fomenting
applications;  and, diuretics, nephritic. &c; also, cathartics.
   Inflammation of the Stomach is characterized by a burn-
ing heat, pain and distension of the stomach after receiv-
ing any substance into it, eructations and vomiting, hic-
cough,  cold extremities, hard and quick pulse,  pain in-
creased by pressure,  excessive  thirst, and, difficulty of
swallowing attended with difficulty of breathing.   Synco-
pe and fits are not uncommon in this disease.
   Bathe the feet and use fomenting applications over the
stomach.   A  mucilaginous  drink composed of  the pow-
der of blue violets or slippery elm may be used in small
quantities neither hot nor cold, but as near lukewarm as
the patient can relish it.   A small quantity of the  barberry,
lemon or other conserves may  be  added, provided it does
not increase the pain.   The mustard plasters may be ap-
plied over the stomach and between the shoulders jf ne-
cessary.  The nourishment should consist of gruel, coffee
or toasted bread, weak chicken broth, and liquid prepara-
tions of mucilaginous vegetables.
   Inflammation of the Spleen is  characterized by tumor,
heat and pain in the left side, increased  by pressure, aud
a shivering  succeeded by intense heat and  thirst.   Ca-
thartics and sudorifics must be used internally, and bathe
the part affected with cayenne infused in vinegar or water,
or tinctured in spirits, and apply a mustard plaster if the
 inflammation does not subside by the use of fomenting
 applications, &c.
                      INFLUENZA.
   This is an epidemic disease,  and  sometimes prevails
 extensively both in Europe and America.
    It commences by  sneezing, coughing, hawking  and
 chills, succeeded by heat, hoarseness, soreness and rawnesa 
190
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
of the throat, lungs and stomach, expectoration of mucous,
pain in the head, chest, back,  and shoulders, eyes red,
great debility attended with difficult expectoration.
   This disease seldom proves fatal if judiciously treated.
   The sudorific course should be adopted, not forgetting
the wet. sheet bath in order to promote perspiration.  Nau-
seating doses of the anti-spasmodic tincture should be ad-
ministered, and if necessary the anodyne cough drops, or
other cough medicines will soon effect a cure.
  The use of tonics may be necessary if  the case be se-
vere.
                      INSANITY.
   The proposed limits of this work must necessarily  ex«
elude a detailed account  of the causes, symptoms  and
mode of treatment for derangement of mind,  yet a few
words upon the subject may not be unimportant.
   All intercourse with a lunatic must be dictated by kind-
ness, respect, justice, truth and  decision of character.
Change of scenery, music, diverting exercises,  traveling
with or otherwise associating in agreeable company, and
every thing calculated to  divert the mind, is important.—
Bodily infirmities and diseases must be treated with appro-
priate remedies as in other cases.
                         ITCH.
   This troublesome disease  is  easily communicated by
contact with  a diseased person; by  wearing  the  same
clothes, or, by sleeping in the same bed;  the effect of
which, is  fully to illustrate the active verb to scratch.   A
small dose of  alterative detergent powders should be ta-
ken two or three times a day, particularly at  bed time, so
as to move thcbowels gently, and apply the itch ointment
to the diseased part night and  morning.   Use both kinds
if necessary.  When the  disease has been of long stand-
ing use also the detergent infusion.
                      JAUNDICE.
   This disease is characterised by  a yellow appearance
of the eyes and skin, high colored urine, bitter taste in the
mouth, sleepiness, or  excessive wakefulness, a sense of 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.              191
Weariness, and particularly in the joints of the lower ex-
tremities after exercise, especially after going up stairs.
  The anti-bilious infusion and anti-bilious fever powders
should be used for three or four days, when a dose of anti-
bilious pills or  cathartic  powders must be administered,
and an emetic may also be important.   Repeat this course
two, three or more  times, as the case may require, and
then use the jaundice  bitters or anti-bilious  beer.  Both
may be necessary.   Excellent remedies for jaundice may
also be found in Class 3.  Finely pulverised soot two
parts, and black pepper and salt  one part each, is an in-
valuable remedy.  Dose,  one or two Os in  a  D of vine-
gir three mornings in succession ; skip three  alternately,
until it has been taken nine mornings.
                      LETHARGY.
  This is characterised by unconquerable sleepiness with-
out regard to time or place.
  For a remedy, cleanse  and regulate the  stomach and
bowels, by cathartics and emetics, and regulate and equal-
ise  the circulation of the  fluids  by the  use of the anti-
dyspeptic and  stimulating bitters and vegetable restora-
tive.
                     LOCKED JAW.
  This is generally  in consequence of a deep wound with
a small instrument,  such as the tine of a pitch  fork,  el-
even a cambric needle is capable of producing the affec-
tion with all its horrid appearances and consequences.  It
may also proceed from an unhealthy condition of a large
wound,  and  sometimes  comes  on  without  any visible
cause.   The worst  case  of  this kind I  ever witnessed,
was caused by a common sized sewing needle which slip-
ped from the top of the thimble, entered at the end of  the
third finger near the corner of the nail, passing along near
the edge of the  naii about J of an inch and broke  off,
leaving the  intruded substance entirely  out of sight.   I
immediately prepared two small mats  of the tow of flax,
which I wet with a strong preparation of anti-scrofulous
tincture, and bound them on each side  of  the  face where 
192              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
the muscles were most contracted, and the spasms immedi*
ately abated and did not return.   I then  made an applica-
tion of oyster shell lime moistened with the anti-scrofulous
tincture to the finger, and on removing it next morning,
the piece of needle was in it.   The wound soon  healed
and no farther difficulty ensued.
                      LUMBAGO.
   This is a rheumatic affection confined to the small of
the back and loins, and requires similar treatment  to  that
directed for rheumatism.
                   LUMBAR ABSCESS.
   When a  deep seated  tumor forms in  the loins, or from
diseased  action in that region,  it is  called a lumbar ab-
scess, which in some instances is preceded,for a long time,
by a  dull  pain and excessive weakness, and  the swell-
ing is so gradual in most  cases, as to give no great cause
of alarm until ulceration  has taken  place, which  is soon
manifested by a fluctuation of matter when a quick motion
is given to the tumor.
   In the  forming stage,  the  use of the alterative  deter-
gent powders or detergent cathartic powders as freely as
the patient  can bear, without debilitating  the  system, in
connection, with the detergent infusion or other detergents,
and especially  the alterative detergent  sirup, alternately
three or four days each, together with the wet sheet bath ;
and bandages  to the affected part may prevent ulceration.
But after ulceration has taken place.or should it appear in-
evitable, the tumor should be  poulticed and brought to a
discharge as soon as possible,  and if deep,  it should be
lanced.  Then apply  such poultices, washes, salves and
ointments, as will cleanse and  heal the  ulcer.   Such de-
tergent and other  medicine must be continued, as will
cleanse the system and restore  the health.
                       MEASLES.
   This is a contagious disease which appears in an erup-
tion of a darkish red color, first in the fauces, then on the
forehead  and  face,  gradually  extending downward over
the whole system, and when  it arrives  at the  feet, it be- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
193
gins to disappear on the face.  The eyelids and eyeballs
appear swollen and watery, and  exceedingly sensitive  to
the light.   The  patient is afflicted with a severe cough,
which is attended with a distressing soreness of the throat
and lungs, hoarseness, difficulty of breathing,  great  heat
of the skin, and drowsiness-.  These symptoms are usual-
ly preceded by those of an  approaching fever.  In many
cases of this disease however, it appears in an exceeding-
ly mild  form, with but little  more than the eruption to de-
note its influence.
   There is but a very short time that  this disease can be
communicated from one to another, and that is supposed to
be before its appearance externally.   In the mild form of
this disease, all  that is  necessary is to guard  the patient
against  taking cold, and a potion or two of physic, while
the eruption is passing off ; but should not the eruption ap-
pear on the fourth or fifth day of  the symptoms, or should
it disappear by taking cold,  or in case of great  distress
for breath or pressure of the stomach, bathe the feet, make
a free use  of the  sudorific  infusion,  and  administer  an
emetic as soon as possible; all of which must be repeated
as occasion may require.  The anodyne cough powders,
cough drops, cough infusion, or cough sirup, may be used
for the cough if  necessary, and costiveness, fever, &c. if
present, may be  met with  their appropriate remedies.
   After the eruption in passing off,  gets below the vitals,
a few potions of  physic at  proper intervals, is important to
clear the relics of this loathsome disease from  the system.
The after  effects of this  disease upon the constitution
when not properly treated, is  far  more to  be dreaded
than the disease itself;  for,  although the patient may ap-
parently recover health, still a severe cough, inflammation
of the eyes, a chronic diarrhcea and dropsy, sometimes
follow in train of this disease, all of which require  to be
promptly met with their appropriate remedies.
   I  was called to visit a lady whom I found  very  much
distressed for breath.  The  eruption had not appeared ex-
cept in  a slight degree upon the. forehead.   I  gave  sudo-
     vol.  i.              13 
194
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 rific infusion, which I soon followed with the emetic, and
 as soon as a nauseating sensation was produced, the brea-
 thing was perfectly free and easy.  The emetic cleared
•the stomach of an immense quantity of matter very filthy
 in its appearance. A few hours after the distress for breath
 returned, and I administered another emetic, and the next
 morning another, making three full emetics in twenty-four
 hours, and each apparently with increased benefit.  She
 was soon restored to a better state of health than she had
 enjoyed for a number of months.  Two months after hav
 ing the measles, she gave birth to a fine  healthy son, and
 afterward gave  much credit for the great benefit she had
 received  from the  use of emetics,  while she supposed
 death was inevitable.
                    MILIARY FEVER.
   " This fever derives its name from the  small pustules or
 bladders which appear on the skin, resembling  in shape
 and size the  seeds of millet."   These are preceded  by a
 cold, hot and sweating stage.  A sense of pricking in the
 skin precedes the sweating stage, and the exhalations  are
 of a strong disagreeable scent.  The eruption first ap-
 pears on the neck and breast, and spreads over the whole
 body, accompanied  with restlessness, burning  heat in the
 palms of the hands,  white appearance of the tongue and
 sometimes delirium, and when  it occurs  in  childbed the
 milk and  other discharges  generally  cease.   When the
 pustules which are of a red or whjte  color begin  to ap-
 pear, these symptoms gradually abate, the pulse become
 more  full and soft,  the  skin moist, the exhalations more
 fetid, and the evacuations return, and after a few days the
 eruption goes off leaving behind a troublesome itching.
   In this, as  well as  all other  eruptive  diseases,  much
danger is to be apprehended in a sudden disappearance of
fche eraption  from the surface.  The secretions and ex-
cretions must be  promoted by the most gentle means  that
ean accomplish the object.   If  there  is fullness and nau-
sea atthe stomach, a gentle emetic may be necessary.
   laxatives and injections should be preferred to active ca- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
195
tnartics, and diaphoretics to sudorifics.  The food must be
light and easy of digestion.   A little brandy and water, to
which may be added a small quantity of lemon  conserve,
may be taken if necessary to keep up the spirits.
                    MORTIFICATION.
  " If any inflamed part have sufficient power to undergo
the excitement, the inflammation generally ends in resolu-
tion or suppuration, but when the inflammation is altogeth-
er disproportioned to the vital power of the  inflamed part,
so that the vessels can no longer act,  mortification is  the
unavoidable consequence.
   When mortification is about taking place, there  will be
a sudden cessation of pain which before had been intense ;
the pulse become  small, weak, and irregular;  the  counte-
nance assumes a deathly appearance, accompanied  with
cold extremities, cold clammy sweats over the whole sur-
face, and sleepiness and great debility follow."
   " Mortification may take place without any  previous in-
flammation.   It is then occasioned either by  an interrup-
tion of the  circulation, long continued pressure, long con-
tinued cold, violent bruises,  &c,  and  it sometimes takes
place when no cause can be assigned.  When  mortifica-
tion does not produce death, the mortified portion is  soon
surrounded by a white line, about which pus is formed,  the
dead  part  sloughs  out and  leaves a  suppurating ulcer.
Otherwise  the mortification  rapidly extends and death
soon  follows."  The first stage of mortification is called
gangrene, from the green appearance of the diseased part.
It soon becomes quite black when it is called mortification.
   When mortification is apprehended from internal inflam-
mation, the medicines included in Class 4, may  be freely
taken into the stomach, and, if necessary, give the same by
injection.   These medicines should also be freely used in
cases of mortification externally.  See  also washes, poul-
tices, salves and ointments.   The patient must be treated
otherwise according to the symptoms.
                       MUMPS.
   This disease is characterised by a painful enlargement 
196
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 of the parotid gland on one. but more commonly  on both
 sides, affecting also the ligaments and muscles which raise
 up and connect the lower  with the upper jaw ;  and there
 is severe pain at the lower part of the ear, on opening the
 mouth or receiving any thing  sour into it.  The  enlarge-
 ment of the gland is usually preceded by shivering, pain
 in the head and back, nausea, and perhaps vomiting.  Ta-
 king cold is the only danger to be apprehended  in this dis-
 ease, as it passes off by resolution after four or five days
 duration.   Should the  patient  take cold,  the swelling of
 the glands suddenly subsides,  when the disease is trans-
 ferred to the brain, producing delirium, or to the  testicles
 of men, or the breasts of women, producing  pain and
 swelling.
  Bathe the feet,  apply draughts, and  give  sudorifics,
 (Class 24,) and keep the patient secluded from a free cur-
 rent  of air.   Foment the part affected, or direct the smoke
 of burning  wool well oiled, by means of a tunnel,  to the
 affected part;  or, apply a poultice of boiled white beans ;
 and, bittersweet ointment.  Use  cathartics  and  emetics
 when necessary.
                  NERVOUS DEBILITY.
  This disease is characterised by a prostration  of men-
 tal and physical energy,  and is  accompanied by indiges-
 tion in all its forms, aches and pains, and the hypocondri-
 ac or hysterical affection with their multitude of imagined
ills continually harass the patient.
  This object of commiseration requires the  use of the
 alterative detergent sirup and the cankersirup, alternately
 three or four days  each, the  sedative or  anti-dyspeptic
 nerve powder at bed time, and the wet sheet bath  early in
 the morning.  These should  be discontinued a  short time
 after six or eight days,  and in the interval use tonics, laxa-
 tives, &c,  if necessary, for a few days, and then return to
 the first course.  Use  also such other  medicine as the
 case may require.
            NEURALGIA OR TIC  DOLOUREUX.
  This is a painful affection of the nerves of the face, and 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
197
when it attains its full power, it is attended with a convul-
sive twitching of the muscles, and is not surpassed by any
other variety of human suffering.  It is excited to extreme
violence by the least exertion of body, by speaking, by
the slightest touch, or even by a breath of wind.  It sel-
dom materially impairs the functions of life,  yet it some-
times proves fatal.   The nerves over the cheek bone, of
the upper lip, the teeth and gums, and of the eye, the ear,
and  the temple, and of both  the upper and under jaw
bones, are subject to the  agonising torture of the  parox-
ysms of this disease.
   Cleanse and regulate the stomach and bowels.   Anti-
spasmodics, nervines, stimulants, sudorifics and tonics, are
all important in some cases.   Give more or less, and of
such kinds as experience may prove agreeable to the pa-
tient, as some cases require very different treatment from
others.  A free use for a short time, of brandy for  some,
and  opium for others,  has proved highly  beneficial in
treating this disease.  I  can see no reason why shower-
ing every morning  with  cold water, would not  be of the
utmost importance  in treating this disease.   At least, the
wet sheet bath may be safely adopted.
              OBESITY.   (EXCESSIVE  FAT.)
   A celebrated author very justly remarks, "that as a life
of indolence, and indulgence  in eating and drinking, is
highly contributary to  obesity, the  remedial  treatment
should consist in the use of severe, regular  and habitual
exercise, a hard bed, little sleep, and  dry and scanty food
derived from vegetables alone."
                     PALPITATION.
   This is characterised  by a quick, forcible and generally
irregular action of the heart, and frequently terminates in
a greater or less degree  of faintness.
   It sometimes proceeds from an ossification  of  the  arte-
ries, from a disease of the heart, from dyspepsia, from
nervous or general debility, and from strong emotions.
   From long experience in its use, I am satisfied that no
other preparation with which  I am acquainted, possesses 
 198              MEDICAL  BOTANIST.

 half the efficacy in controlling the unnatural action of the
 heart from whatever cause it may originate, as the anodyne
 tincture.  A  dose should be taken  early in the  morning
 for a week or  two  when  necessary.   Endeavor also to
 meet other attending symptoms with appropriate remedies.
 Emetics if necessary,  can  be  administered with  great
 benefit.  Costiveness must be obviated and the vegetable
 restorative  or  other tonics used if necessary.   Exciting
 causes must be carefully avoided.
                 PALSY.  (PARALYSIS.)
   This disease is  characterised by  a loss of motion or
 feeling, or of both, in one or  more parts of the body.  Dif-
 ferent names are applied to represent different locations of
the disease.   When the whole of one side of the body is
 paralysed, it is called hemiplegia, and when half of  the
body transversely is affected, it is called paraplegia.
   The attack is sometimes  sudden and unexpected,  but
more  frequently is  preceded for  a number of days by a
 giddiness, drowsiness, numbness, dimness of sight, forget-
fulness, Sic,  and sometimes the  paralytic  influence is
first manifested in a finget, hand, arm, &c, or in  the mus-
 cles of the tongue,  mouth,  eyelids, &c,  and gradually
 fixes upon its location.
   In the first stage  of this disease, I have never failed to
 arrest its progress, and effect a cure by cleansing and reg-
ulating the stomach and bowels by the use of emetics, ca-
thartics, nervines and tonics, assisted by bathing applica-
tions and  diaphoretics.   Nauseating  doses of the anti-
 spasmodic tincture, and bathing the part affected with the
 anodyne tincture, are valuable in any  stage.  Stimulating
 injections are highly important when the bowels are ren-
 dered inactive by this,  or  any other disease.   External
 friction must be often  and  thoroughly  applied,  and  it is
 probable that if this was preceded by  the wet sheet bath,
 its efficacy would be greatly increased.
                        PILES.
  This disease is characterised by tumors situated on  tthe
 rerge of the anus, which  are either separate, round  and 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.       •       199
prominent, or run together and form a tumid  ring, from
which in some  cases, blood is  freely discharged, when
they are called bleeding piles, and cases  in which blood
is not discharged are called blind piles.
  Another variety caused by general debility,  and  loss of
tone of the rectum, is called prolapsus  ani, in  which a
portion of the rectum protrudes without a  great degree of
inflammation.   At other times, the protruded  portion be-
comes inflamed to a great degree, so that fomenting appli-
cations, and even poultices,  are required to reduce  the in-
flammation before it can  be replaced.  In the  inflamed
stage of either variety,  much agony  is produced by dis-
charging the excrements, or in sitttng on a common seat.
  This disease is  caused by costiveness,  a frequent use
of drastic  purgatives, especially aloes, rich  and  highly
spiced and seasoned diet; or, the opposite  extreme, heavy
lifting, indolence, Sic.       .
  The bowels must be  regulated  and kept regular  as a,
matter of the first  importance,  by  pilewort  injections,
laxatives, &c.  Bathing  the back  and loins  frequently
with the anodyne  tincture, and the use  of strengthening
plasters, is important.  In the inflamed stage,  fomenting
applications of smartweed, &c,  or other fomenting appli-
cations and poultices, may be necessary.  (See page  89.)
After the inflammation is  reduced,  the protruded portion
can be returned  by gentle pressure with the palm  of the
hand or fingers, which should be  well lubricated with oint-
ment. (See ointments.)  These,  or salve  should be used
daily until a cure is  affected.  Costiveness and debility,
must be treated  with laxatives and  tonics. Cleanse and
regulate the stomach and bowels  if necessary.
                    PIMPLED  FACE.
  Add one  pound of sulphur  to one  quart of best rum,
shake it often for five or six days,  when it will be fit for
use.  Dose, a D more or less on an empty stomach,  two
or three times a day, so as to move the bowels  gently.—
Take it alternately three dai*and,miss three, for a  length
of time, sufficient to  effect*a cure.   At the  same time 
200
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
squeeze out the inspissated fluid, and  bathe the affected
part with the anodyne tincture, at least once a day.
                       PLEURISY.
   The first appearance of this disease,  like  the inflam-
mation of the lungs, is  that of a heavy cold, which  soon
seats upon the pleura, prostrating the physical energies of
the system, and is  attended with chills,  flashes  of heat,
and pain darting from its seat to the breast, back and
shoulder blades,  accompanied-with  a distressing cough,
difficult expectoration, which is  generally   streaked with
blood, is at first scanty, but soon becomes more free,  pulse
quick, strong and full, tongue thickly coated, thirst intense,
restlessness,  excessive heat  at the  surface,  and scanty
high colored urine.
   The sudorific course, anti-bilious fever  powders, bathing
and fomenting applications, mustard  plasters, draughts to
the feet,  the detergent catholic infusion, the emetic, the
alterative cleansing powders or other preparations recom-
mended for cough may be used, as directed for inflamma-
tion of the lungs  ; and, after the inflammatory action sub-
sides, tonics may be employed as  in other cases of con-
valescence.   An infusion  of calimus, pleurisy root and
wild lettuce, may be used for constant drink through the
whole course of the  acute stage; or,  the  sudorific  infu-
sion,  anodyne infusion, or other sudorifics, for constant
drink.
                       . QUINSY.
   The characteristic  symptoms  of this disease, are  a
swelling of one or both tonsil glands, extending  with in-
flammation, to the mucous membrane of the throat, to the
palate and  tongue, attended with difficulty  of swallowing
and of expectoration,  hoarseness, indistinct articulation,
darting pains in the affected part, a thick brown  coat on
the tongue, hard, quick, full pulse, and  sometimes  deaf-
ness.   In violent cases, the, face and eyes are also inflam-
ed, and  respiration is performed with so much difficulty,
that the patient is compelled^ maintain  an erect position
for fear of  suffocation. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
201
  It generally terminates in a few days either by resolu-
tion or suppuration, but is sometimes protracted to weeks.
This disease is usually caused by a sudden cold,, in con-
sequence of having the neck and throat more than  usual-
ly exposed to cold or damp air.
  In the first stage of this disease, relief can  be obtained
by inhaling a brisk vapor by pouring vinegar  on a heated
brick or stone, which  should be  conducted to the face by
spreading a cloth over both.   Fresh air should be admit-
ted  as the patient may require.   After inhaling this vapor
at intervals, from ten to thirty minutes, a dose  of the black
drops, or the anodyne tincture, and bathing the throat ex-
ternally with the nervine or other  liniments, may speedily
effect a cure ;  but. in the advanced stage,  bathe the feet,
(page  89,)  and foment   the  part affected,  (page 89,)
inhale  the vapor frequently as above directed, administer
an  emetic,  (page 73,)  gargle   the   mouth  frequently,
(see canker infusion,) and physic often.
  These prescriptions are also good  in cases of chronic
inflammation of the throat, and for putrid sore throat, for
which, in addition, use anti-septics freely, both internally
and externally.
                     RHEUMATISM.
  This disease is characterised  by a painful  affection of
the  large joints, and  in  some cases,  of the muscles  be-
tween the joints, and is called acute or inflammatory rheu-
matism, attended with a high state-of  febrile  excitement,
and chronic, unattended with fever.
  This disease is generally caused by a sudden exposure
to cold or damp air while very warm, thin clothing in cold
weather, wet feet, wet clothes, &c.
  The magnitude of this disease  varies from a slight pain
in one joint, to an affection of the whole system, some-
times spelling as in  the acute,   or a stiffness as'in the
chronic, by which the patient is rendered helpless, and is
racked with pain of anacuteness  surpassing description.
  In either  variety,  the  wet sheet bath  should be used
daily with other remedies.  The  wet bandages may alsA> 
202
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
be applied to  swelled or pained parts.   Cathartics  and
emetics, and frequently bathing  the affected part in salt
and vinegar, or cayenne and vinegar, or with some of the
liniments or lotions, and sudorifics internally, may also be
necessary.  If the wet sheet is  not employed, the sudo-
rific course and  bathing applications, should be adopted
and frequently repeated.
  In the chronic  stage, physic often, and use the stimula*
ling bitters prepared with brandy, or the  rheumatic tinc-
ture.   Bathe as in the acute stage, and  wear  rheumatic
plasters when.the pain becomes  seated, and use the rheu-
matic ointment, sirup, tincture, &c.  Dress  comfortable,
keep the feet dry and  warm, and avoid as much as possi-
ble,  every exposure to evening air or damp weather.
                       RICKETS.
  This is a disease of infants,  and is characterised by a
pale sickly countenance, bloated face, small neck, unnatu-
ral enlargement of the head, breast bone,  or a bend in the
spine,  soon causing a serious deformity.   The  bowels al-
so become  enlarged,  flesh soft,  and  with the strength
wastes away.   The causes  of this complaint are the dis-
eased state of the mother, and want of exercise.
   Treatment.—First, administer a sirup of the anti-dys-
peptic  bitters, until a free cathartic operation is  produced,
then change to the vegetable restorative for four or five
days, then use the sirup as  before, and  use the sirup and
restorative alternately, jour or five days each  a little be-
fore meals.  At the same time shower with cold water, or
use the wet sheet bath every morning.   Take  pains, if
necessary, to produce perspiration immediately after show-
ering, or while in the bath.   The affected part should be
bathed  with  the  anodyne tincture and nervine liniment,
each once  a day,  and the whole surface wiih  best bran-
dy, and with salt and water, each once a day.  The show-
ering or bath, and the different bathing applications, should
be attended to at  proper intervals, so  that one shall not
interfere with the other.  Friction and riding, all that the
«hild cancomfortably bear, will  be important. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               203
                      RING WORM.
  This, from a small pimple, extends in a  circular form,
attended with violent itching.   A  few applications of the
cancer caustic, ^nd the itch ointment  shortly after,  will
soon effect a cure.
                 RUPTURE OR HERNIA.
  This is caused by a relaxation  of  the abdominal mus-
cles, by which a portion of the internal viscera is permit-
ted to protrude between them,  and sometimes the  protru-
ded portion is so large  as to be returned only with great
difficulty, and sometimes  that object cannot be effected.
  When this opening is near the navel, it is called umbili-
cal hernia ; inguinal, when in  the groin ; the scrotal, when
in the scrotum ;  and the femoral, when below  the groin.
   There is but little difficulty  and no danger, attending
this complaint while the protruded parts can  be easily re-
placed ; but when from any  cause the muscles  become
rigid, so that the patient  cannot, as usual,  relieve himself,
difficulty if not danger should be apprehended.  To pre-
vent this difficulty, a well adjusted truss  should be worn,
and the rupture  ointment and  rupture  plaster used as di-
rected.   But should it occur,  Dr.  Beach  recommends to
commence the  treatment by  administering a dose of ca-
thartic oil, (castor oil, croton oil, or olive oil,) and if neces-
sary, encourage the operation with the cathartic injection.
   " Opium,  in strangulated hernia, is often  exceedingly
valuable.  It checks the vomiting attendant on the stric-
ture, allays pain and the irritability of the system, removes
the tension of the parts, and will often effect a speedy re-
duction.   About three grains (a small pill)  should  be giv-
en every two hours, until the desired effect is produced."
Dr. Beach.
   Farther to assist, use  fomenting applications,  and the
vapor or warm bath.  Poultices may also   be  necessary,
and reasoning from analogy, I conclude that the wet ban-
dages might be advantageously employed.  The position
of the  patient should favor, as much as possible, the re-
urn of the protruded part.  "  His legs and hips should be 
204
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
elevated as high as convenient  by placing  the back of a
chair under them ;"  or, any other position which will be
most favorable in avoiding internal pressure at the orifice,
should  be preferred.  Bittersweet  or  other ointments
should be freely applied to the tumor, and moderate  pres-
sure made to return the parts by grasping the tumor at its
base, and "with the first three fingers" compress it all
around to diminish its diameter, and at the same time with
the fingers of the other hand,  press  and direct the tumor
toward the orifice.
  " When the patient is fatigued, cease both to press anil
to push, but continue the hold,and when the efforts are re-
newed, gradually increase their force."
  " I have usually found  that  the patient  himself  could
succeed best in performing  this part of the business.  In
most instances, it is  the case that the viscera have been
down often,  and he has been in the habit of returning
them himself, by which he  acquires a tact in doing it, un-
known to  the most skillful surgeon."   Dr. Beach.
  This operation must not,  however, be attempted while
there exists inflammatory action, or much pain  .When this
is the case, the bath,  fomentation, or poultices, must be
employed. Success usually  attends  these efforts  in a
short time, yet cases have been protracted to a number of
day.-;, and nevertheless terminate favorably by faithful per-
severance.
  A case of strangulated hernia is related by  Dr. Beach
as remarkable, which occurred on  one of the Islands below
Boston harbor.   A similar  case occurred not  long since,
in this town.   " An opening formed from the tumor, and a
considerable portion  of the intestines sloughed off.  From
the peculiar location of the woman, it  was exceedingly
difficult to obtain a physician,  and her husband gave her
enormous quantities of  physic  before the sloughing took
place.   There  was a complete relief from pain  after the
faeces began to discharge at the artificial opening, where
they continued  to pass  off about ten  days, when  the ori-
fice again closed, the discharges  readily took a natural 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
205
course,  and the  patient now remains in perfect health.
We understand that she was not visited by any physician
or surgeon until after the cure was perfectly completed."
                     SALT RHEUM.
  This cutaneous disease  most commonly appears on the
hands, yet it is occasionally  met  with on other parts of
the body.  The  diseased part appears crusted,  in which
cracks form, from which a watery fluid issues, attended
with intolerable itching.  Irritating the  part in any way,
or heating the blood, aggravates the disease and causes it
to spread.   The blood must be cleansed by the use of  dif-
ferent detergents, and washes if necessary,  but particu-
larly that recommended with the salt rheum ointment. See
also  alkaline tincture.
                     SCALD  HEAD.
  This disease consists of  an acrimonious  fluid,  which
as the disease advances, forms a thick hard scab, in some
cases over the whole scalp, and is communicated to others
by wearing the same hat  or bonnet,  by using the same
comb, &c.
   Cleanse the  blood  with  the  detergents,   (class 9,)
and  apply the scald head  ointment and occasionally  the
alkaline tincture.
     SCARLATINA, SCARLET FEVER. (CANKER RASH.)
   This disease is characterised by a sense of weariness,
dejection, chills, flashes  of heat, headache,  sickness  at
the stomach, heat, thirst and quick pulse, followed  after a
day or two by  an eruption of a bright scarlet color,  the
eyes are affected, yet  not watery, Sic, as in the measles.
   The eruption first makes its  appearance on the face,
neck and breast, then over the whole body, yet is most
distinct about the joints.  Isolated cases  of  this disease
are uncommon,  as it generally appears as a prevailing  ep-
idemic, and has three  varieties, viz:  Simple  Scarlatina,
Scarlatina Anginosa and Scarlatina Maligna.
   In simple scarlatina, the symptoms are mild and the
eruption terminates in brany scales of the cuticle, after
three or four days. 
206               MUEDICAL  BOTANIST.
   In scarlatina anginosa, the symptoms are more violent,
 accompanied  with soreness of the throat,  inflammation
 and ulceration of the tonsil glands, vomiting, difficulty of
 breathing, pulse quick and small, and the redness  at the
 surface appears more  like a stain than an eruption, the
 breath soon becomes very  offensive, and an acrid humor,
 very corroding, is discharged from the mouth and nose.
 Delirium is not uncommon in this  variety of scarlatina.
   In the  scarlatina maligna,  these symptoms appear in
 still more aggravated form.  The  fever is more intense
 and more rapid in its progress.   The eruption  appears in
 small  points of  a  dark  purple color, scattered over the
 whole system,  pulse small and irregular,  delirium, the
 eyes red and exceedingly sensitive to the light.
   In this disease, the sudorific infusion  and canker  pow-
ders are invaluable. The canker infusion, (page 105,) and
 vinegar and salt, (page 91,) to be used as gargles, are also
 good and in some cases very important.
   The emetic, (page 73,) should be employed to clear the
 tenacious mucous from the throat and relieve  febrile ex-
citement, and the detergent cathartic powders or cathartic
infusion to  relieve arterial action,  pain in  the head, &c.»-
 and will also aid in subduing febrile excitement.
   External  bathing,  with  alkali (page 89,) or mild soap
 suds  frequently, is  important.   Applications  around the
 throat, of salted wheat  bran moistened with vinegar, or
raw salted pork, are valuable.   Perseverance  in the  use
of these means,  will not often fail of restoring health.
                      SCRqFULA.
   This disease is chiefly confined to the glands about  the
 neck, and concentrates near the butt of the  ear into  an in-
 dolent tumor.   At other  times,  the scrofulous  humor is
diffused through the whole system, and like a false friend,
is ever ready to unite with  any  other enemy to afflict its
victim whenever a favorable opportunity  presents, and
therefore,  inflammation of the breast and other local de-
terminations, sometimes assumes the appearance of scro-
fula. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               20?
  Scrofulous tumors or ulcers are always slow in pro-
gress, and the discharges are thin, mixed with particles of
a curdy appearance.
  Use detergents (class 9,&c.)to cleanse the blood ;  apph
the  oil  of spruce  and  poultices to the  tumor  before it
breaks, and poultices, ointments or salves after.  Bathing
the whole surface in salt water, is highly recommended.
Use emetics and  cathartics when necessary, as in other
cases of  disease.
      SELF POLLUTION--MASTURBATION--ONANISM.
  Much has  been  written upon the evil consequences of
this practice.   The following is abridged  from Beach's
*•' Reformed System of Practice."
  " Emitting the semen artificially by the practice of onan-
ism, lays the foundation for  many incurable complaints,
and causes more bad health than  even physicians  are
aware of.  That this practice prevails in all ranks of both
sexes to  a great extent,  cannot be denied or doubted,  its
effects upon physical strength and constitutional stamina
are very  great, and its influence in prostrating the mind is
no less appaling.
  Consumption, spinal distortion, weak and painful  eyes,
weak stomach,  nervous  headache, weakness  in the back
and  genitals, marks  its ravages upon the one; loss of
memory and of  the powers of application, great  despond-
ency of mind, and, insanity, show its devastating effects
upon the other.
  It is equally opposed to moral purity as to physical and
mental vigor.  It  keeps up the influence of unhallowed
desires, gives the passions the ascendancy  in the charac-
ter, fills the mind with lewd and corrupt images, and trans-
forms its victim to a filthy and disgusting reptile.
  Let the young beware of its  consequences, and  those
who are  in the  way of danger, abandon it forever.
  Books have been written filled  with the  most startling
facts on this subject," and there can be no doubt that this
is a  prolific  source of licentiousness  and  immorality.—
Excessive coition is no less destructive to body and  mind. 
208
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                SORE MOUTH—THRUSH.
  This is characterised by  tenderness of the mouth and
superficial ulcers, and redness of the gums,  edge of the
tongue, fauces, &c, caused by impure acrimonious secre-
tions deposited in the stomach.
  Cathartics and emetics at proper intervals,  assisted  by
a gargle composed of the canker infusion or powders and
canker sirup, will speedily effect a cure.   Honey may be
freely used.
    SPINAL  DISTORTION--CURVATURE OF THE SPINE.
  This affection comes on gradually with declining health,
and is probably caused by labor beyond the constitutional
ability while young, or sedentary habits  in an unnatural
position.   The spine, instead of maintaining its erect po-
sition,  inclines  toward one of the shoulder blades, by
which one is riised and the other depressed.
  Cleanse and  regulate  the  stomach and  bowels with
such remedies as the case  may require, and use tonics and
stimulants to give tone  to the  system.  Thoroughly ap-
plied friction frequently to the part affected  will be im-
portant.    This, every morning  should be followed by an
application of the nervine or other liniment, and at  night
bathe with the anodyne tincture, or with the tincture in the
morning and liniment at night.   The whole surface should
also be  bathed once  a day  with  salt and water, followed
by thorough friction.   Moderate exercise should be strict-
ly observed.  The wet sheet or shower baths should oc-
casionally be employed, and occasionally bathe the  af-
fected part with the oil of fire weed or of fir.
                   SPITTING BLOOD.
  This is always alarming to the patient and his friends,
especially if  it be profuse.   The  asthmatic  tincture has
thus far proved to be a sovereign remedy in the  many ca-
ses to whieh it has been  applied.  An infusion of bugle-
weed is   highly  recommended.  The emetic (page 73,)
has also proved  safe and efficacious.   The  styptic  sirup
should be used  to prevent a return of this  difficulty.—
Should these fail, use  other styptics.  (Class 23.) 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
SOS
               SPONTANEOUS VOMITING.
  A weak preparation of the anti-bilious infusion in small
doses often repeated, or a little salaeratus dissolved in wa-
ter, or a drop or  two of the oil of peppermint, or  four to
six  drops of the  oil of fir on loaf sugar,  or the mustard
plaster over the pit of the stomach, or a dose frequently of
the saline mixture will give relief.   See also page 137.
                       SPRAINS.
  Apply wormwood moistened with alcohol or vinegar, or
vinegar and salt, or bind the part well with  flannel, and
keep it moist with anodyne tincture.   Balsams, fomenting
applications, the oil of wormwood cautiously used, and the
german or other liniments are also good.
             STITCH IN THE BACK OR SIDE.
  Bathe the affected part with the anodyne tincture two or
three times a day and heat it in.   Wear also  a strength-
ening plaster.
                SUPPRESSION  OF URINE.
   Use  diuretics as  directed in  class 11, or  in the com-
pounds, and if  necessary, apply smartweed pounded and
moistened in warm  water over the bladder.  Use also the
black drops, diuretic drops, Sic, if necessary.
                   ST. VITUS'  DANCE.
  This is  manifested by a convulsive twitching  of the
muscles, so that the involuntary jesticulations renders the
afflicted individual  an object  of commiseration.   Music
has a controling influence over the disease, and procures
quiet and  refreshing  sleep" Cleansing the stomach and
bowels by the use of emetics  and cathartics,  is important.
A  strong infusion of  blue sculcap is an invaluable reme-
dy.  Other nervines  and tonics may be necessary.
                      TOOTHACHE.
   As the teeth are valuable instruments of our daily en-
joyments, it is not always advisable to have them extract-
ed  until an effort be made to remove pain  otherwise, and
it is absolutely dangerous to have a tooth extracted, whil«
there is much inflammation in the gums.
    Rinsing the mouth frequently with weak lime water ia
      VOL. I.               H 
2.10
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
  highly recommended both as a preventive and to ease pain
  Bathing the face over the painful tooth with the anodyne
  tincture, and holding that or the asthmatic tincture in the
  mouth, is invaluable.   Or apply the nervine  liniment or
  aqua ammonia over the tooth and on the gum around the
  tooth, or fill the hollow in the tooth with cotton moistened
  with the liniment.  The  oil of cloves  is  highly recom-
  mended to be used in the same way.   The oils  of sum-
  mersavory and  of marjoram are also good.
    Heating the bottoms of the feet by the  fire  or bathing
  them in warm water will generally give speedy relief.  A
  thorough use of sudorifics and the vapor bath, is  however
  sometimes necessary.  I am informed by a respected min-
  ister of the baptist church, that chewing the twigs of the
  pussy willow fifteen or twenty minutes, cured him of the
  toothache  with  which he  had  suffered much  for three
  weeks in defiance of all common remedies.
                        ULCERS.
    For the cure  of internal ulcers, cleanse and regulate the
1  system by the use of cathartics and detergents,  and ad-
  minister balsams  and healing essential  oils.  For exter-
 nal ulcers, while  cleansing and regulating  the system as
  above, apply poultices, washes, ointments, salves or plas-
 ters, as the case may require.
            VEGETABLE  AND MINERAL POISONS.
    The following in part, is an abridgment of Dr.  Beach's
 remarks on poison.  The  antidote must be speedily ad-
 ministered or it will be of n» use.  All narcotic poisons
 must be removed from the stomach by a free use of the
 emetic, accompanied with copious draughts of herb tea,
 (page 73,) and in  ten or fifteen minutes after, half a gill of
 lamp oil may be administered, (some prefer sweet oil,) and
 be repeated if necessary  until the  patient vomits freely.
 The patient should walk about or be otherwise kept con-
 stantly in motion.  A large O of pulverised mustard seed
 in warm water will operate promptly as aa emetic, and is
 perfectly safe.
    For alkalies, give vinegar and lemon juice accompanied 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               211
with a free use of slippery elm mucilage.  Should vomit-
ing continue, dissolve an ounce of salaeratus in two quarts
of water and administer a teacupful at a time, frequently.
Fomenting applications to the stomach  and bowels will
also prove beneficial.
  Lime water is  highly recommended as an antidote for
poison by arsenic ;  and for verdigris, the white of eggs
diluted Avith water, followed by a free use of salaeratus wa-
ter  as above directed.   Salt and water will counteract the
corrosive effects of nitrate of silver, in the proportion of
a D of salt to a quart of water.
  Milk is the best antidote for the muriate of tin.   For the
oil of vitrol and aquafortis, large  doses  of magnesia and
water, or what is better, soft soap  and water equal parts.
  For oxalic acid, chalk and water.   For  saltpetre, give
the mustard seed emetic'as above directed,  slippery elm
mucilage and the anodyne drops.
  To counteract the deleterious effects of tartarized  anti-
mony, give the anti-spasmodic tincture  in quantity suffi-
cient  and at proper intervals, to give relief.
  For poison externally by ivy,  (called also poison vine
and mercury,) which causes great heat, itching, swelling
and pain, apply buttermilk or lobelia  infusion, tincture, or
poultice freely and  frequently,  followed by the ehrer or
other ointments.
  In all alarming cases, give either the emetic powders or
mustard seed promptly and freely, with a free use  of fluid
preparations, accompanied with linseed or sweet oil.
                   VENEREAL DISEASE.
  This dreadful  and disgraceful  disease is caused by a
specific virus received in the  time of copulation with a
diseased person,  and is first  manifested  by an  itching,
burning sensation in the most tender parts of the genitals,
a discharge of white or discolored mucus from the  urethra
in the male, and the vaginia in the female, and a scalding
sensation while passing urine.   Redness and inflamma-
tion soon  follow;  the discharge  is  soon more copious,
less tenacious,  and changes to a yellow or green color. 
212              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 As the disease progresses, venereal desires increase, par-
 ticularly when warm in bed, attended with a painful  erec-
 tion of the penis, owing to its curved form, and the swel-
 ling of the parts.  This is called gonorrho;a, or clap.
   The second stage of the disease is called chancres. Ul-
 cers first appear in small red pimples, and contain a trans-
 parent fluid, which soon  break  and new ones form, very
 sore, painful, and spread considerably.
   Swellings called bubo form in the groin, and if the vi-
 rus gets into  a sore on the hand, this tumor, which often
 becomes as large as a hen's egg, will be likely to form in
 the arm pit.   In some cases suppuration takes place spee-
 dily, in others more slowly, and sometimes the tumor dis-
 appears without suppuration.
   In its more  advanced stage, called Syphilis or pox, the
 virus  is  diffused through  the whole system.   Brown, or
 copper colored spots appear on different parts of the body;
 the throat becomes ulcerated ;  voice hoarse ;  swallowing
 difficult; obstinate inflammation of  the eyes; the  nose
 becomes affected and finally consumed ; the hair falls off;
 foul spreading ulcers form and multiply,  the  stench  of
 which is  intolerably offensive,  and the wretched victim
 dies, .a loathsome mass of corruption.
   This disease  may be  communicated by a  nurse to a
 child at the breast; by a child who is  thus compelled to
 bear the iniquity of  its parents, to a nurse ;  by the virus
 getting into a  sore; but usually, as first stated.
   In the first stage, the use of the alterative detergent pow-
 ders or anti-venereal pills* used as freely as may be, with-
out affecting the  bowels, except in a slight degree, and the
powders administered once in five or six days, so as to op-
erate as physic ; and a dose of the diuretic drops two or
three times a day at the same time, and the use of washes
 externally, and with  the syringe if necessary, to which the

  •Equal quantities, finely pulverized, each of loaf sugar,
 maadrake and rosin, and white pine  turpentiae.  After
mixing tbe whole thoroughly together, make the mass into
eommop sized  pills.  Dose, one to  four,  as the bowels can
bear, an hour before meals. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
2f3
anti-scrofulous tincture  may be added, will effect a cure.
  In the advanced stage the wet  sheet bath ; the  altera-
tive detergent decoction, the  alterative  detergent sirup,
and  other  detergents  used alternately four or five days  •*
each, accompanied by cathartics and emetics, and the use
of poultices, washes, ointments, salves or plasters, as  the
case  may  require, must be employed,   perseveringly.—
Stimulating drinks, or  highly seasoned  or animal  food
must be avoided, and the patient should  subsist on plain
simple diet, easy  of digestion.
                VERTIGO,  OR  GIDDINESS.
  This may proceed from a disordered state of the stom-
ach, from general or nervous debility, from physical exer-
tions beyond the constitutional ability, and from  a pressure
of blood to the head.  It is also symptomatic of apoplexy
and palsy.
  The cause, in general, may easily be understood, by re-
flecting upon past exercise  or by the attending symptoms.
which must be met with their appropriate remedies,  and
the exciting cause avoided as  much as possible.
                       WARTS.
   Moisten the  wart a few times in strong lye, or the can-
cer caustic,  and  it will soon  disappear ; or wash a few
times in a strong decoction of white  oak bark.
                    WATER  BRASH.
  This disease is most severe  in the fore part of the day,
when the stomach is empty, and is attended with a burn-
ing pain in  the stomach, followed by watery eructations,
cither tasteless and insipid,  acrid  or roapy, and a sense
of stricture is experienced on standing erect.
   The  use  of  tire anti-bilious infusion and alterative
cleansing powders for  four  or five days, followed  by the
anti-dyspeptic bitters, or some of the preparations of rhu-
barb, to produce   a cathartic  operation,  and repeat  the
course a few times, will generally effect a cure.
   White mustard seed, (class  17,) the  anodyne  tincture
internally and externally, and small doses of cayenne and
golden seal, before or  after each meal,  are generally  at-
tended with much benefit. 
214
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                    WHITE  SWELLING.
    This disease is characterised by the swelling of a joint,
,A generally of the knee, hip or elbow, and although the pain
 and inflammation may be very great at the bone, the color
 at the surface remains unchanged, or rather it is of an un-
 usual whiteness.
    I have never failed of success in treating this disease
 by the use of detergents to cleanse the  blood, (class 9,)
 and fomenting applications followed by warm poultices of-
 ten renewed, (page 91,) and at  each dressing bathe the
 aflected part, if painful with the  anodyne  liniment, if not
 painful  with the anodyne tincture.   Should these fail, oth-
 er means may be tried.  Dr. Beach recommends  that the
 diseased part when painful, be steamed over  a  decoction
 of bitter herbs impregnated with soft soap,  as  hot as it
 can be borne for at least fifteen or twenty minutes, as of-
 ten as once in twenty-four hours, then apply a poultice,
 and when  it is changed, bathe with a liniment composed
 of one  pint of alcohol  and half an ounce each  of cam-
 phor, oil of hemlock, oil of sassafras and tincture of opium
 well mixed.
    Continue the use of cleansing or detergent medicine,
 and after the tumor breaks,  apply poultices and washes
 until the inflammation subsides, then ointments and salves
 as for other ulcers.   At the same time use such remedies
 as will  restore health.
                  WHITLOW OR  FBLON.
    This  is characterised by an  inflammation at the bone
 attended with a pricking sensation and excruciating pain.
 The joint near the end of a finger or.thumb is most  liable to
 the disease, yet it sometimes seats on other joints of the
 fingers or toes, or on the hand, and if it goes on to suppu-
 ration, it shows the patient  no mercy by night or by day,
 and the flesh sometimes wastes  astonishingly.  No time
 should be lost in preventing suppuration if possible,  (see
 recipes, pages 119, 137.)  and if  very painful, steam the
 hand or foot on which the felon is  seated, as directed for
 white swelling. 
BBDICAL BOTANIST.              215
                       WORMS.
  Those most common in the human stomach and bowels
ire of  three kinds, viz: the  ascarides or pin worm, the
teres or long round worm,  and the  taenia or tape  worm,
full of joints  resembling gourd  seeds, which unite and
form a white flat worm, often a number of yards in length.
The ascarides, chiefly occupy the rectum,  and the  teres
and taenia, the stomach and intestines.
   From long experience and  much  observation upon the
subject, I  am unavoidably led  to  the  conclusion that
much is attributed to  worms of which they are not guilty.
Not a solitary symptom is laid down as indicating their
presence, except their rising in the throat and causing an
itching about the  anus by the pin worm,  but what may
exist in full force, in  consequence of a disordered state of
the stomach and bowels, without them.
   This sentiment is fully  sustained in the  following ex-
tracts.   " There has been too  much dependence placed
upon all vermifuges.   The object should be to strengthen
the system generally, and excite that energy in the  con
stitution which will enable the bowels to expel the worms,
and resist their subsequent formation."
   Dr. Beach says, " Worms  may  proceed from various
causes, but are seldom found  except in weak and relaxed
stomachs where the  digestion is bad.   Those  who eat
great quantities of unripe fruit, or live much on raw herbs
or roots, are generally subject to worms."
   Thompson, in speaking of giving calomel and other poi-
sons to destroy worms, says, " The absurdity of such
practice is like a story by Dr.  Franklin, of a man who 'set
fire to his barn for the purpose of getting rid of a weasel.' "
   In all cases of symptoms  indicating  the  presence  of
worms, cleanse,  regulate and  strengthen the stomach,
bowels and system  generally, and if the  symptoms con-
tinue, vermifuges as directed in class 26  and in part third
should be employed ; but, there is not the least difficulty or
danger to be  apprehended  from worms, so long as the
stomach and bowels are in good order. 
"AG
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
                       WOUNDS.
  Wounds made with a sharp instrument if well cleansed
with a  sponge or  soft  linen and water, the parts brought
nicely together and well  supported, first, by a  stitch or
more if necessary, or by straps of adhesive plaster a lit-.
tie distance apart, a suitable quantity of lint over the whole
length of the wound, and the whole  supported by a band-
age sufficiently tight to  keep the sundered flesh in  close
contact, yet not so tight as to prevent due circulation ; the
lint moistened and kept moist with the anodyne  tincture
a little diluted with soft  water if necessary,  and it may
reasonably be expected that the wound will heal without
suppuration.
  Wounds made with  a sharp pointed  instrument in the
flesh only, and superficial wounds, generally require no
farther  attention than to be  secured from  the air wiih a
bandage moistened frequently with the anodyne tincture.
  In lacerated wounds, it. is not to  be expected thai the
sundered flesh can be brought together so as to heal with-
out suppuration.  These must be cleansed of foreign sub-
stances without delay and with care, the parts brought to-
gether,  covered with lint, supported  by a bandage and
kept moist as  above directed.  After  suppuration takes
place, or in case of severe pain at any time, use poultices,
ointments, salves or plasters, as may be necessary.
  Anodyne tincture is  an invaluable remedy  for bleeding
at a wound, but  this could not reasonably be  expected  to
stop the bleeding from  a large blood vessel, for which Dr.
Beach recommends  small balls of lint rolled  firmly to-
gether and applied to the end of a  bleeding vessel, then
apply lint and small compresses to secure permanent pres-
sure upon the artery,  after which apply the  dressing.—
"In general," he says,  " a piece of  linen of suitable size
folded thick, laid directly over the wound and a bandago
applied,  is quite sufficient to  stop the hemorrhage."—
There are cases however, which  require that the artery
must be tied, the directions for which will be found in any.
■work on surgery 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
217
  In all cases of wounds of much magnitude,  particular
attention must be paid  to the health of the system gener-
ally.  Cathartics, or at least laxatives, must frequently be
administered.   The afflicted part must be  kept quiet  that
the healing process may  be  the  more successfully and
speedily completed.  The mind also should be kept quiet.
The diet should consist exclusively of plain simple food.
easy of digestion.   Spirituous or fermented liquors, or
highly seasoned delicacies are pernicious.   In poisoned
wounds, such as the bite of the rattlesnake, &c, cupping
the wound immediately, or  scarify and suck the poison
from the wound with the mouth, which  may be done with-
out swallowing it with  perfect safety, provided that every
part of the  mouth is in a perfectly healthy  state, applying
caustic  plasters,  so as to  cause the  sore to  discharge
freely, using a strong decoction of plantain, (page 42,) for
a wash, keeping the wound wet  with salt and  water, or
moisten slippery elm with  it  oiled freely  with sweet oil
and kept on constantly while there  is inflammation, is
recommended by Dr. Beach.
   Dressing wounds, as well as setting bones, can  be ac-
complished much  easier  immediately  after  the accident,
than when the parts are inflamed, provided that some one
present has presence of mind  sufficient to  be dictated by
reason and that kind of benevolence which is ever active
in  alleviating the  sufferings  of  the unfortunate  and the
distressed.
   I once inquired of a surgeon  which he would employ,
provided one of his own limbs should be shattered so that
he could not dress it himself,  a well read surgeon who was
not naturally a  mechanic,  or a natural mechanic who had
not studied surgery ?  His answer was the mechanic.—
Such however, is the deplorable ignorance and stupidity
upon every department  of medical science in all  classes
of  community,  that every  one feels at liberty to consider
himself free from  all  responsibility, let  his fellow man
suffer what he  may, provided a Dr. has been,  or can be
*ent for; and, the list of cripples thatmight.be exhibite.1 a* 
■218
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
the result of this confidence, bears a strange contrast with
the following statement of Dr. Beach,  in his Reformed
System of Medicine, page 494, where he  says :  " There
is no branch of  surgery more simple or more easy to treat
than fractures or dislocations.   I  have had  my  share of
practice  in them,  and should really  feel mortified  and
ashamed if a single case that I ever treated,  could be ex-
hibited in which there was any deformity or bad  manage-
ment.
   I have never attended one, no matter what bone of the
system had been fractured, but that has been properly set,
secured and successfully treated,  no lameness, deformity
or inequality of the bones remaining, nor the least mark or
symptom that could lead to the  suspicion that there had
ever been a fracture."  "This," he says, "has been ac-
complished by a course of treatment so  simple,  that any
person 'possessed of  common sense can  easily put it in
practice.'"
   His directions and conclusions  upon this important part
of medical science, are such as every man of sense  and
reflection must at once recognize as being well adapted to
the wants of man, and his writings generally are entitled
to the respect and gratitude of an enlightened community.
   But to no  medical  man are we more deeply indebted,
than to the late immortal Samuel Thompson. Not so much
for the correctness of his conclusions, as for his fearless
defence of what he believed to be right.  He was right in
one point at least,  viz : " that the practice of a man  pos-
sessing a knowledge  of botanic remedies is  very su-
perior to one  of the same capacity  of  mind, of the
most profound study in the use of minerals.  Why ?  Be-
cause  the use of vegetable remedies assist the powers of
nature to overcome and expel disease ; whereas, the use
of minerals and the list of deadly poisons generally being
opposed to  the principles  of  life, are disease creating
agents."  Any man of reflection, unbiassed by prepossess-
ion, may satisfy himself of  this fact  (as many have,) by
carefully comparing cases differently treated. 
                 MLBDICAL BOTANIST.              219

                 PART  FIFTH.

REMARKS ON  DYSPEPSIA,  DIET, DRESS AND
                    EXERCISE.
                   " DYSPEPSIA

   Is a derangement of the digestive functions," attended
with a painful uneasiness of the stomach, and sometimes
severe pain either before or after meals,  imperfect diges-
tion, alternately loss  of appetite and a voracious craving
for food, acrimonious eructations and vomiting, alternately
costiveness and  relax, and  all the debility, prostration of
physical and mental energy, wasting of flesh, Sic, which
attends a declining state  of health.
   This state of the system is induced by violating organic
law in eating or drinking, by improper dress,  by exces-
sive exercise, or more frequently for the want of sufficient
active  employment, in which sleeping  to excess bears a
conspicuous part.  In order to show the agency of  these
habits in causing dyspepsia,  each  must be respectively
examined ; and  first of

                       DIET.

   Much inquiry  has been made respecting the kinds of
nourishment best adapted to the support of the human sys*-
tem, and many experiments have been made by  chemistry
aud otherwise, to ascertain the  amount of nutriment con-
tained in the different animal  and vegetable productions
commonly used as food,  and the time required for their di-
gestion, a part of which is given on a succeeding page.
   The debilitated should adhere strictly to a plain simpU
diet, easy of digestion, with as few dishes at the  same
meal as possible; but tho  robust and the  laborious may
partake of tho more  substantial food.  No one should  ui- 
220
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
dulge in a great variety at the same meal, and ample time
should always be allowed for the digestion of food, and
an hour or two for the stomach to rest  afterward before
another meal, as this is important to  a healthy  condition
of the stomach,  and  vigorous digestion; without which
dyspepsia will soon follow.
  It has been ascertained  by the experience and observa-
tion of a number of scientific men of high  standing, that
a plain  vegetable  diet is more conducive to  health and
longevity—more invigorating to the physical and mental
energies than animal food—that animal food  is not neces-
sary even when great  physical exertions are required, and
absolutely injurious to those  who do not labor—that what-
ever the, quality may be, the  quantity  should be limited to
what nature absolutely requires and no more.
  It is  recorded of those, who, in  modern times  have
lived to the advanced  age of  1 10, '50, '60, and even to up-
ward of  180, that they subsisted on plain, simple, vegeta-
ble diet, with but little, except cold water, as a beverage.
  It is perfectly obvious that more than a bare  sufficiency
of food has a tendency to oppress the  organs,  diminish
physical and mental ability, and impair, wear out and dis-
organize the vitality of the whole system.
  More than sixteen centuries  ago,  Galen promulgated
the doctrine that man  should subsist on sirch things as he
found to agree with him,  and  avoid every thing not re-
quired by nature, and  that by observing this rule  he would
seldom  stand in need  of physic.
  Laboring men who  have  adopted  vegetable  diet, uni-
formly assert that they possess a greater degree of mus-
cular strength as well as mental vigor, than when  indul-
ging in the use of  animal food,  are more uniform in their
appetite, experience much less of the cravings of hunger,
and are in a great degree,  exempt  from  prevailing  disea-
ses.  The reason  for  this is perfectly obvious when we
consider that a number of the vegetable productions used
a1?  food possess more than twice the amount of nutriment
afforded by any kind of meat ; and the well authenticated 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
221
fact that the blood of him who subsists  much on animal
food becomes putrid soon after being removed from the cir-
culation,  while that drawn from him who subsists  exclu-
sively on vegetables, remains free from putrefaction for a
longtime, shows conclusively,why those who subsist on
vegetables are more exempt from diseases, either general
or local, than those who are under the contaminating influ-
ence of animal  food.
   A change of diet will generally be followed by a great-
er or less degree of languor, and  perhaps debility ; but,
let him who suffers thus in consequence of a change from
animal food to a vegetable  diet,  remember that he who
changes  from a vegetable diet to animal food, suffers still
more.
   With regard to the time of receiving food into the stom-
ach, it is  probable  every  thing considered, that seven
o'clock is the  best time for breakfast, twelve for dinner,
and five for supper.   This arrangement will allow time
for the digestion of food, and rest for  the stomach ; and,
prevent the necessity of eating between meals, or near
bed time,  which generally proves very  detrimental to
health.
   The physical condition of the system must regulate the
 choice of viands, because  different kinds of  food are not
 absolutely wholesome  or Unwholesome, only as they are
 relatively so in individual cases.  All complicated com-
 binations of food are improper.   It is  generally the nib-
 bling  between  meals that does  the mischief  in causing
 dyspepsia, so far as food is concerned.
   As  to beverage, pure, cold, soft water, claims the pref-
 erence,  both as a luxury and in its ability to slake thirst.
 Foreign tea and coffee used habitually, or even occasion-
 ally, prove injurious in most cases.  Ardent spirits, wines
 and strong beer, cannot be used  while in  health without
 injury ;  and their use is frequently punished with a pros-
 tration of  physical,  mental and moral energy, and the lost
 of every  thing  dear  to man.   Cold  water is  the most
 agreeable, as well as the most healthful beverage for evo- 
222              MEDICAL B0TANI»T.
 ry one while in health, unless the appetite has been vitia-
 ted by the contaminating influence of habit or otherwise.

                       DRESS.

   Much might be said, perhaps profitably, on  this impor-
 tant subject, yet the space  remaining for this  part of the
 work, unavoidably compels  to brevity.   Suffice it there-
 fore to remark, that  the dress should be well adjusted, so
 as not to compress the body  Or limbs, suitably adapted to
 the changes of the seasons and the constitutional neces-
 sity of the individual, and be  so arranged and of  such ma-
 terials as  shall be necessary to  guard  the extremities in
 cold weather, and keep the feet especially dry and warm.
 No bustles nor tight lacing are required,  because  the sym-
 metry of the human system is more perfect  and beautiful
 than man can  devise,  and it  is a downright insult upon
 the wisdom of Deity to disfigure  His noblest work. Such
 presumption has frequently been punished with dyspepsia
 or more fatal maladies.

                     EXERCISE.

   After all  the care that can be  bestowed upon diet and
 dress, without  particular attention  to exercise, health can-
 not be enjoyed.
   Man is the only being endowed with  ability to reason,
 and still upon the subject of exercise, is the most  unrea-
 sonable of all animated nature.  Indolence is  not a natu-
 ral propensity.   In childhood and youth a desire for  ac-
 tion is fully exhibited ; and, therefore,  when we  meet a
 sluggard, we know that habit has  made him so.
   Some are impelled  by their ambition, others are  com-
pelled by their necessities, to  labor beyond their strength,
and really  suffer from  prostration  of their  physical and
mental powers, in  consequence of long  protracted or ex-
cessive  exercise; but even  this, added to  humble life,
should be preferred to a life of indolence in a palace ; bo- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
223
 cause it is far better to wear out, than rust  out,  since  in
 rusting out, every comfort is banished.  That position  in
 life is most desirable in which care and toil are sweetly
 blended with the pleasures of home.
   The common bustling way of doing business, does not
 accomplish half as much as might be done in the same
 time, and with far less wear and tear of strength, provided
 that every part of the business of life was reduced to sys-
 tem—a time for every thing and every thing  in time, a
 place for every thing and every thing in its  place.
   Here an  important consideration  presents  itself.  As
 before remarked, in childhood and youth a  desire for ac-
 tion prevails ;  and, if children are not learned something
 useful, they will learn something else ; so that,  when the
 parent, in the  common bustling way of doing business.
 finds it convenient to call the child from dissipating plays,
 the confinement and restraints necessarily  enforced are
 often met with stubborness ; and, in nine cases in ten the
 child will play the truant every favorable opportunity, and
 feel enmity for deserved punishment.  All  this happens,
 and in many cases infinitely more, because  parents  can-
 not find time to direct the mind of the offspring to future
 usefulness, for fear it might intrude upon some  money ma-
 king scheme.   This  state of things  will exist  so long as
 wealth shall be the test of respectability.
   If time  could^ be properly divided, viz:  one third, or
 eight hours in twenty-four for rest, eight hours  for labor,
 and eight hours for meditation and mental cultivation, an
 important change would soon be experienced both in phys-
 ical, moral and mental ability ; but, so long as the  all ab-
 sorbing desire of money making prevails, to  the exclusion
of every thing beside,  even if both  soul and body shall
perish as the consequence, we cannot even hope for  bet-
ter days in this respect.
  A horse carefully fed  and driven, remains  vigorous up-
wards of twenty years, while the noble animal  subject to
the will of the dashing dandy, becomes decrepid, and at
ten or twelve, often much less, is an old worn out horse. 
»)•I
K1SDICAL BOTANIST.
  Is not the system of man also subject to decay from abu-
sing those faculties with which it is endowed by its Crea-
tor ?  Is  not the loss of physical, moral and  mental abili-
ty the unavoidable consequence of  a life of indolence and
dissipation ?  Are instances of longevity  recorded of such
as habitually violate organic law, in excesses of any kind 1
  In order to have exercise impart its  invigorating influ-
ence upon physical and mental ability, it  must  be regular
that the muscles, &c, may become firm and braced, so as
to bear it without irritation ;  diverting, that it may  be en-
gaged in as a pleasure, and useful, that it may add to coin-
fort and happiness,  and banish the idler's dependence up-
on those  he despises as inferiors.
  The hours of rest should be as regular  as possible ;
and, it is  probable that from nine in the evening until five
the next  morning is the  most proper time.   There are
but few probably, while in health,  who require eight hours
sleep ; and therefore, those who  find it  tedious to spend
eight hours  in bed,  should retire  at a later hour  or rise
earlier.  Aristotle gave it as his  opinion, that four hours
sleep was sufficient for a man,  six  for  a woman, and eight
for a hog.  Four or five will  do  for  a temperate  man at
ease, but the laborer will generally require more.  Sleep-
ing to excess however, is as criminal and as injurious to
physical and mental ability as any other intemperance.
   Bathing the whole  surface on rising in the morning, or
enjoying the shower bath, followed by thoroughly applied
friction, are highly extolled by all  who have enjoyed their
invigorating influence.  Either should be followed by ex-
ercise sufficient to restore  natural warmth to the whole
system ;  and the balance of the time until the fixed hour
for breakfast, may very properly be spent in mental  culti-
vation, provided the time should not necessarily be spent
in preparing for labor after breakfast.  At any rate  the ex-
ercise should not be such as to exhaust the  system.   Ev-
ery one should  sit down to  breakfast free from  the ex-
 hausting effects of labor,  that the appetite  may be good
 and the system  in full vigor for the labor  of the day. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST*
225
  After meals the labor should always be moderate  until
the system is relieved from the languor which attends the
digestion of food.  Indulging in sleep at this time is high-
ly improper, as it impairs digestion and cannot fail to in-
jure the lone of the stomach.  Neither  should  feats of
strength or  agility be practiced immediately after meals ;
for as before stated, the  exercise should be moderate, as
that promotes healthy digestion. The time between meals
should not be so long as to require an extra dish; neither
should the system become exhausted for the want of food.
Exercise, when nourishment is wanting, wastes the pow-
ers of life.  Hence we  see that exercise  or the  want of
it,  improperly  adapted  to  the  condition of the system,
may have a powerful influence ' in causing dyspepsia and
other diseases.
   With regard  to  the  exercise of diseased persons, it
should  in all cases, be adapted to the ability of the pa-
tient and always stop short of exhausting fatigue, yet all
that can be borne and leave the system free from irritation!,
so that rest can be enjoyed, will prove beneficial,and gen-
erally of great importance in the restoration of health.
   The mode of exercise must also be adapted to the abil-
ity of the patient, such as walking,  riding on horseback,
or in an easy carriage, on the rail road, voyages hy sea, &c.
 Change of  scenery, diverting employment,  &c, is often
 of great importance, especially to the  desponding.   Er-
 rors in diet, dress or exercise, are not common with those
 who adhere to the principles of physiology and reason.
   In the treatment  of dyspepsia, the stomach may require
 an emetic,  the bowels  laxatives  to  remove costiveness,
 and, the treatment for general debility may also be neces-
 sary, as well as the use of a number of compounds recom-
 mended for dyspepsia ; but, the main dependence must be
 placed in diet  and exercise.   The proper course of exer-
 cise  has been  pointed out, and a suitable Variety  of prep-
 arations  of diet is annexed, from  which dyspeptic and
 other diseased persons  may select as their necessities may
 require.
      vol. l               15 
 -26               MEDICAL BOTANIST.

         DIET  FOR  DISEASED PERSONS.

   Here the careful observer will readily perceive that im-
 portant considerations devolve upon all  who would enjoy
 health, and especially  those whose duty  it is to be valetu-
 dinarians.  Proper  time must be  allowed  for digestion,
 and  rest for the stomach,  before an additional supply of
 nourishment is introduced into it.
   Unbolted wheat bread is easy for the stomach and very
 nourishing.  Rye, or  rye and Indian, or  Indian bread ; or
 buckwheat, barley or rye pancakes have  their advocates,
 and  are  entitled'to preference in individual cases.  All
 bread stuff should be made  light before it is cooked, and
 bread should be  at least twenty-four hours old before it is
 eaten by diseased persons.  The unbolted wheat bread for
 cases generally, claims the preference.   This,  and  the
 following preparations, are proper food for the sick at any
 time.
   Beef Tea.—Put half a pound of fresh lean beef sliced
 thin,  and  three  half pints of pure soft water into a quart
 porter bottle, and set it into a kettle of water and keep it
 boiling  hot or nearly so,  for three quarters of an hour, then
 pour off the liquor and  add more water to extract the re-
 maining strength, and after heating awhile as before, add
 the liquor to the  other and season with pepper and salt, to
 suit the appetite.
   Or, add to a  quart of water in a kettle,  one  pound of
 beef prepared in the same manner, simmer twenty or thir-
 ty minutes and season  as the above.   This preparation is
 very nourishing for cases of extreme debility.
   Chicken Tea is prepared in the same way for the same
 purpose, but is not as good in cases of dysentery.
   Corn  meal gruel.—Mix two  Dsof  corn  meal  with a
 little cold  water, and stir it into a  quart of boiling water
previously salted, and let it boil fifteen or twenty minutes,
then add a gill of milk  if desired,  when  it will be fit for
use.   Nourishing and agreeable.
   Corn  meal tea.—Pour a pint of boiling  water upon a a 
MEDICAL BOTANWT.              227
of corn meal, and add a little salt if desired.   This  will
Beteasy on the stomach when almost any other fluid is re-
jected.
   Milk Porridge.—Mix well Iwo D s of wheat flour, (the
unbolted is best,) with a small quantity of cold  water, pour
it into a quart of boiling water previously salted  and mix
well by stirring.and when it boils add half a pint of sweet
milk.  It is then ready for  use.  When  prepared for the
extremely debilitated,  or to be used with  an emetic, the
quantity of flour  may be reduced one half.
   Oat meal gruel.—Mix three  Ds of oatmeal and a hand-
ful of best raisins in one quart  of water,  keep  the vessel
covered and simmer gently  for two or three hours.  Good
in diarrhoea and dysentery.
   Rice Jelly.—To a  suitable quantity of pure  soft water,
add eight ounces of loaf sugar and four of  clean rice and
boil to a jelly.    Very nourishing.
   Wheat  Jelly.—Soak wheat in pure soft water for twelve
hours, pour off the  water and add a sufficient quantity of
fresh water to boil four or five hours, when  the water re-
maining should be only sufficient to form  a jelly.   This
may be eaten with sugar or molasses, and is an agreeable
article for the sick and  in cases of  dyspepsia.   It has a
tendency  to  obviate  costiveness, does  not oppress the
stomach, and  is  very nourishing.  I have  been informed
by settlers in new countries, that this is an important arti-
cle of  diet when  flour cannot be obtained.
  Eggs.—Beat an egg thoroughly and add loaf sugar to
make it palatable.  This may  be take i in cases of debili-
ty and is very nourishing.   When thus prepared,  if pre-
ferred, add a  gill  of boiling  water and take  it when cool.
  Or, break an egg into boiling water.  The yolk at least,
should remain soft.   This should be seasoned  with a lit-.
tie salt and butter, and is nourishing.   Boiled  milk, toast,.
panado, and chicken, and mutton broth are also  good.
  Fruit.—Wholesome fruit, fully ripe, may generally be
used without injury, but it. should always  be taken at meal
time, and not as an extra dish as  is the common  custom. 
Vt9              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
 The rind, core, seeds or stones of fruit, as well  as every
 other indigestible substance, should never be received in-
 to the stomach, because they impair digestion.
   Rice Coffee.—Add a  D of rice  scorched and ground,
 to half a pint of boiling water, when settled  clear pour it
 from the sediment and add loaf sugar and  a little cream
 to make it palatable.   Infants may  take  a D or  two fre-
 quently,  and adults  more  liberally.  Good  in cases of
 acidity and bowel complaints, and is nourishing.
   Carrot Coffee.—Scorch,  but not  burn,  thin  slices of
 carrot, and steep without grinding.   Add cream and sugar.
   The following table shows the estimated amount of nu-
 triment contained in one hundred pounds each, of the arti-
 cles named.
 Rice,                  90  Rye,                  80
 Beans,          * 88 to 92  Meat, average,         35
 Peas, probably  ab't same     Potatoes,               25
 Wheat",                85  Beets and Carrots,     14
 Barley,                83  Cabbage & Turnips, 6 to 8
   The following will show the estimated time  required
 for the  digestion in  a  healthy  stomach of the  articles
 named, beginning with the easiest and  ending with the
 most difficult.
   Rice boiled,  pigs  feet boiled, eggs beat raw, salmon
trout boiled or fried, barley soup, milk boiled, beef's liver
broiled, eggs swallowed whole, cabbage  raw with vinegar,
and codfish toast, require from  one to two hours for diges-
 tion, and therefore may be used by the  debilitated, if not
 injurious.
   Milk raw,  eggs roasted, turkey, goose,  pig and lamb
roasted, string beans, wheat boiled, unbolted wheat bread,
 gponge  cake,  parsnips boiled, potatoes sliced  raw and
 fried, baked or roasted, custard,   oysters raw, eggs rare
 boiled, beef steak broiled,  pork  broiled, mutton  stew or
 soup, bean soup, chicken  soup, apple dumplins  and corn
 cake, require from two to three hours for digestion.  The
 most of the above articles are quite nourishing, and prop-
 er in oases of debility. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
22*
  The following require strong powers  of digestion and
vigorous physical exercise,  whenever they are used as
food.
  Oysters cooked, pork steak, mutton roasted, Indian corn
bread,  carrots boiled, sausage,  old cheese,  butter,  pota-
toes, greens and turnips boiled, efgs boiled hard or fried,
green  corn and  beans boiled, and beets  boiled, require
from three  to four hours for digestion.
  Beef fried, veal boiled, fowls or ducks boiled or roasted,
beef soup, the heart of animals,  salted beef or pork, soup
of marrow bones, cartilages, veal  fried, suet boiled, cab-
bage boiled with vinegar, pork roasted, and tendon boiled,
require from four hours to five and a half for digestion.
  The diet, as a general rule, may with safety be adapted
to the  inclination of the  patient,  yet a great distinction
should be made between the demands of nature and those
of a depraved appetite, in which generally, it is not diffi-
cult to judge.
   I was  called upon to visit a woman, several miles dis-
tant, whose case had been  pronounced incurable, by her
attending physicians, and  whom I found so much exhaust-
ed and emaciated, that I declined  making a prescription
for her, as  I  considered her case hopeless.  After I had
expressed  myopinion that she could not live but. for a short
time, she said to her husband, as the doctors all say there
is no help  for me, do give me what I want.  On inquiry, I
found  that  from the first of her illness, she had expressed
a great anxiety for new  milk,  and fresh beef, which had
been  strenuously refused  by her physicians.   I advised
that her  appetite should be gratified, as  much as possible,
because, if it  had a bad  effect, it would  not shorten her
life but for a short time ; and, if it produced good effects,
which I  thought most probable, there would be a possibil-
ity of her recovery.   She was soon furnished with a quart
of new milk, the most of  which she drank, andsoon after
observed that she felt almost  well already; anVshe was
soon restored to her usual state of health.
   Another, who had been dangerously sick with pleurisy, 
330
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
desired her  mother to prepare  her some boiled cabbage,
which was refused, until I should be consulted.  Tho first
thing 1 heard on entering her room, was, " Doctor, may I
have some boiled cabbage ?"  This interrogation I hardly
knew how to  answer,  but  I finally told her that I would
consent to her eating th* cabbage,  on  condition that she
would take an emetic,  in  case it proved injurious.   She
replied, "I had rather take  a dozen emetics than not have
the cabbage."   It was accordingly prepared, and she ate
all she desired, without the  least apparent injury.
   When my wife began to recover after a dangerous ill-
ness,  she desired a meal of our " boiled dinner," as it is
familiarly termed.   Her mother,  fearing it would materi-
ally injure her, told her she would consult  my feelings on
the subject, and on my return,  met me at the  door, and
gave me a strict charge  to  persuade her not to  cat  such
hearty food, while so weak, as she was afraid it would
prove fatal to her ; but, in accordance with long  establish-
ed  principles  in such cases,  I consented that she might
have a small quantity, which her mother prepared with a
trembling hand ; the cabbage,  in particular,  she strongly
objected to.   My wife, however, partook of a small quan-
tity of each, pork, potatoes, and cabbage,  and  to all ap-
pearance it proved beneficial,  without  the least apparent
injury.
  I have uniformly allowed my patients to eat or drink
such things as nature appeared to demand, and have never
known the least injury to arise from such indulgence.—
Reason of course should dictate as to quantity.
• 
     MEDICAL BOTANIST.               V,Si

     PART SIXTH.'

THE  TEMPERAMENTS.
                  TEMPERAMENT

   Is established by nature and education,  and influences
 lhe body either to good or bad actions ; and although it is
 indicated  to some extent by  the different  individual  or-
 ganization, yet to a very great degree, it is subject to indi-
 vidual choice, since it is in the power of man to abuse or
 improve the  faculties with which he is endowed by  his
 Creator.   To this,  the science of phrenology as well as
 reason and experience bears ample  testimony ;  and it is
 admitted by all, that the nearer perfection the organiza-
 tion is, the greater the muscular powers and the suscepti-
 bility of a high state of mental cultivation, and of course
 the greater the  responsibility to perform the duties of  life
 correctly.
    At an early period in life, children manifest a restless
e desire to act and to know, and when these  natural propen-
 sities are properly  cultivated, an  ardent  desire  to do all
 that their muscular powers will permit, and know all that
 their mental faculties can comprehend, is established at
 so early an age that the man knows not of its beginning,
 and should never contemplate its end, until at a good  old
 age, he shall be gathered home to his fathers.
    Of the TEMPERAMENTS there are  four varieties
 which differ materially in degree, viz:
    I. The muscular, in  which  muscular or physical  ac-
 tion excludes mental cultivation, by which, the mind  lo-
 ses its vivacity and acuteness.
    II. The mental, in which physical action is excluded
 to a great degree, for mental cultivation and accomplish-
 ments.
    III. The sanguine, in which physical action and men- 
232              medical botanist.
tal improvement are cultivated with regard to their value
connectedly, and  the active energies of both  body and
mind, being strengthened by exercise, are capable of be-
ing called into immediate and vigorous action on all prop-
er occasions.
  IV. The morbid, in which an aversion,  both to physi-
cal and  mental  action prevails, so that  neither body nor
mind can be materially aroused on any occasion.
  As the TEMPERAMENTS are mostly established in
early life, the following observations are intended for the
consideration of parents and guardians of youth, with  a
view to improvement in education.
  In order to establish the  muscular temperament, keep
your child at labor as steadily as possible.   Allow no time
for recreation or childish sports.  Teach him to believe
that institutions for learning are established more for the
purpose of manufacturing knaves and idlers, than for any
useful purpose.  Dwell long and loud in  praise of some
master spirit who has added farm to farm,  without a suffi-
cient knowledge of letters to enable him to write his own
name, or read  a sentence  correctly, or even do a simple
sum in arithmetic ; and, if you succeed well in this, your
child will in all probability make an honest  hearted faith- ■»
ful laborer;  but, should he disagree with you in regard to
these matters, you must soon learn whether your authority
or his obstinacy, and perhaps vices,  shall have the ascend-
ency ; for, if he is not contented to labor exclusively, and
has no opportunities for mental cultivation, he will  soon
plan and perfect a dress to  serve the devil  in.    Or if he
submits  to parental authority with a degree of complacen-
cy, he will be constantly unhappy, and look forward to the
time when he can think and act for himself, as to a jubi-
lee ; and when, at twenty-one  years of  age he shall in-
troduce  himself into a world of  which he is comparative-
ly ignorant, he  will  soon know and  feel that every one
else knows more, behaves better,  and are consequently,
more respected than himself.  Should he attempt to mount
the ladder of fame, with  what  mortifying  avkwardues* 
MEDICAL  botanist.
833
does ho advance  amid sneers of contempt  and  ridicule.
As he  will now look  upon labor as the  cause of all his
misery, and upon  his father as the instrument that bound
him  to it, he will  very  naturally despise both, and should
his self-respect fail him, what can  he be but a highway-
man, a mail robber, a  burglar, a- horse  thief, a gambler ;.
and in  short, a desperado, who will love and practice eve-
ry kind of vice with delight.
  In order to establish the mnn'al temperament, represent
labor as vulgar, entirely unbecoming a gentleman ; make
physical action  painful, by  compressing  the body and
limbs as much as  possible ; encourage such studies as
have a tendency  to keep the  mind  alive to sympathetic
sentiments, without the least reference to the common bus-
iness of life ; and, have a great regard to fashions and gay
appearances.    You will thus  soon succeed in completing
as useless and dependent an animal  as ever existed ; who
at the frowns of fortune must seek the company of the one
above described,  aril join in acts of desperation  as the
only means of  support.   That this is graphically true of
many thus barbarously educated, cannot be denied.
  In order to establish the sanguine temperament,  combine
useful and diverting labor with mental cultivation.  Incul-
cate a love for  labor, not only for its  pecuniary  advanta-
ges, but because  it imparts vigor  both to body and mind,
and  affords various  opportunities for doing good to the
poor and to  other  objects of charity;  and,  because  a
knowledge of labor in'itself is wealth.   The  youth thus
instructed and  educate:!,  cannot fail to look forward to the
time when by his own industry, he shall be enabled to add
to the comfort  and happiness  of others;  his  parents if
poor, in particular.  lie will have  confidence of success
in the pursuit of favorite studies or in labor, as he will re-
alize that he  has a mind to  plan find hands to execute.
This cheerful,  warm,  ardent confidence is characteristie
of the sanguine temperament. In him, his parents will ev-
er find a dutiful son ; his brothers, an able counsellor ; hi* 
234              MEDICAL BOTANIST.
sisters a guardian brother ;  and his associates and com-
panions, a faithful, affectionate friend.
  In order to establish the  morbid temperament, suffer tho
tender bud to wither as early in life as possible.    Never
cheer and animate the mind by a kind word or the smile of
approbation ; but should  the child  muster  courage sufli-
uent to ask a question in child like simplicity, frown up-
on him and censure and  punish him  severely for every
thing  he says or does.  Allow of no amusements or use-
ful  instruction,  and keep his imperfections constantly in
view.  This course will  soon destroy ability in the  best
i rganization ever formed for physical or  mental labor.
  The principal sources of amusements in the muscular
temperament, are that kind of labor to which the individual
is accustomed; feats of physical strength or  agility,  and
the low order of sensual gratifications.
  In  the mental temperament,novel reading,theatrical per-
 formances, gambling, horse racing, parties of pleasure and
 sensual gratifications of  every description, are required to
 keep the mind  alive, for  it  must live if at all, at the top of
 excitement; and as an  idea of useful employment finds
 no  place, much lime muat necessarily be spent in amuse-
 ments or despondency.
   In tho sanguine temperament no extra pains or expenso
 are required for amusements , because, every subject pre-
 sented opens a new field for contemplation, and  the mind
 is ever alive to the why and  the wherefore,  and  thus is
 constantly in the cnjoymant of richer pleasures than tha
 idler ever knew.
   The morbid  temperament, like the dead sea, has no ris-
 ible outlet, and is neither wider nor deeper in consequence
 of  tributary streams.
    As life is frequently compared to a ship upon the bound-
 less deep, let us contemplate the  modus operandi  of pre-
 paring a ship to meet and outride the storms  which cross
 its path on the trackless ocean.  That the similitude may
 be the more clearly  understood  in its  application to tho
 different temperaments,we  will give the frames (infants,) of 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
588
four vessels (men,) equally constructed by thesame build-
er, (the great Creator,)  into the  hands of four different
workmen (parents,) to finish. (Instruct and educate.)
  One procures coarse yet substantial materials, sees that
every part is well fitted and the frame work  well braced,
(muscular strength increased by  exercise,) that the mast
(the object of life,) be of proper  dimensions, (capacity of
mind,) and well seciired  by a cord (a love  for money,)
which is so arranged as to guard  it strongly in the  intend-
ed direction  ; and,  although  a suitable quantity of paint
(useful learning,) would make the ship more durable,none
is procured for  fear of expense or ornament, both of which
puts the good man  in pain ;  nnd, no particular  pains are la-
ken in calking or pitching,  (inculcating  moral principles,)
or in the convenience of the  ship, (expanding the mimi
upon  business  principles,) as the great dependence is
placed in the strength of the frame work, and in the mag-
nitude and support of the mast.
  Another has no particular choice as to the permanancy
of the materials, provided they appear well to the eye and
are capable of receiving a  high polish ; and,  although tho
same kind of cord is vised as for  the other, a  great variety
of gauze  and  twine is loosely attached in various direc-
tions, (the appearance of morality, benevolence, &c.) so
as to give a  very different appearance and hide from a su-
perficial observer the real  direction given by the support
of the mast; but when the  strength of the cord is put to
the test (by an  )!>ject of charily  or an  opportunity for a
bargain,) it is easily discovered.  No braces are  used to
Becure the perr inency of  the frame work, nor is the least
pains taken  in  calking, pitching  or in the convenience of
the ship, but ornaments of  every  description are profusely
lavished on  every  part of the work.
   Another  carefully selects   plain, durable materials;
(provides for suitable physical and mental exercises,) sees
that every part of  the work is well fitted, braced and bolt-
ed ; (moral honesty, as well as muscular strength, thor-
oughly established ;) that every joint  be well  secured by 
*S<*               MEDICAL BOTANIST.
ralking and pitching; (no vices allowed,)  that the mast
be not only of proper dimensions, but of the right mate-
rial ; (objects in life  well directed,) that a suitable variety
of cordage be employed to secure the permanency of tho
mast;  (justice, morality, benevolence and  charity incul-
cated as important principles,) and that these be support-
ed and strengthened  in every possible way.  The colors
for the painting  (different branches of useful learning,)
were selected more for usefulness and durability, than for
ornament.
  The fourth was well pleased with the frame work, yet
could not find  time to  select proper materials or superin-
tend the work, so that  every important part of the  work
was left unfinished, when  the four  were to  be launched,
(arrive at mature age to enter upon the business  of life,)
and receive the approbation or disapprobation of those who
witness the scene.
  Tho first, "the  Sampson," was launched and its men(as-
siciates,)  and billast (busin s-i  of life,)  put on board;
und soon a leak was discovered, (want of punctuality, &c.)
and  by pumping,  calking  and pitching, (confession and
good resolutions,) the craft kept afloat;  but  it was heavy
and forbidding in  its  appearance;  had but one sail (busi-
ness transactions,) and of course, always  moved in one
direction.   The helm (conscience.) had but little effect in
directing the course  of this unwieldy vessel.
  The second, *• Frolic and Fun," was  launched  and re-
ceived its  men ; but,  proved so leaky that ballast would bo
apt to sink it  at once ; it therefore rolled from side to side,
so that the helm was powerless ; and it drifted as the wind
happened to blow.   The  sails were often clashing, nev-
ertheless,  it drifted  merrily before  the breeze.  As the
deck was  high (appearances.) the crew thought but little
of the water  below,  and were in high glee.
  The third, " The Enterprise,"  was  launched and her
men and ballast put on board, and she sat upon the water
in unassuming  grandeur  and majesty.   Along her sides
appeared in large capitals, " Industry fosters and  protects 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
537
the Arts and Sciences."  Not a  drop of the briny ocean
forced its way through her well wrought sides, nor  did a
timber move from its place, and so perfectly well balanced
was this beautiful ship in all its parts, as to feel and obey
every motion of the helm ; and the sails were so arranged
as to catch every breeze advantageously.
   The fourth was launched and permitted to float without
a name, men or ballast,  as it appeared  to be entirely un-
worthy of either.
   The Sampson proved  to be too heavy for a long voyage,
and was therefore,unable to procure but  a small amount of
business and that of  the poorest kind.
   Frolic and Fun was used only as a pleasure boat for the
giddy youth,  and very many  were  lost overboard.   She
was dependent upon  the Sampson and Enterprise for all
her supplies.
   The Enterprise put to sea with a full cargo, and in due
time returned richly ladened with the treasures of foreign
lands.
   The fourth floated in the harbor or elsewhere, and was
never noticed except to be shunned.
  Phrenologists have also named four temperaments which
relate to the predisposition  of the body to diseased ac-
tion, viz :  The Bilious, the Lymphatic, the Sanguine and
the Nervous.  The  above, it will  be seen, contemplates
the influence of education and the duty of those entrusted
with the care of children and youth.
      OBSERVATIONS ON  PHRENOLOGY.

  The limits of this work will not admit of an illustration
of this highly interesting and important science ; yet,  a
thorough conviction of the correctness  of its  principles,
and the advantage to be  derived from them in the educa-
tion of children, and in the social  relations of life, forbid
that so important a subject should be passed in silence. 
233
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
   Phrenology  teaches  that the mind  has its seat in the
head—that the brain is composed of a number of phreno-
logical organs, each having a  separate office to perform,
by which the mind  is influenced in  a greater or less de-
gree according to the size of the organ, and  the restrain-
ing or assisting influence of other organs, and that these
organs can be  increased or diminished  in size, in  propor-
tion to their exercise or inactivity.  This  being the case,
it  is important that parents shall understand the phrenolo-
gical  developments of their offspring,  sufficiently to be
enabled to  counteract unequal developments of the or-
gans, by giving action to the mind where action is neces-
sary,  and suppress as much as possible,  the  influence of
those organs which enkindle the grosser passions.
   It is also important that parents understand the phreno-
logical  developments of their  offspring, that they  may
judge correctly with regard to their inclination  in fixing
upon  an occupation suited to  their capacity.  If, for in-
stance, a young man  is capacitated to  take a high intel-
lectual stand,  having a  large, well developed and active
brain, a broad  chest and well proportioned frame, and has
strong inclinations  for literary pursuits, his  predilection
accompanied with vigorous physical exercises should be
encouraged ; for, if his mind be narrowed down to a me-
chanic shop or to a farm for which he  can have no incli-
nation, he would be constantly  unhappy ;  and it would be
equally inconsistent with his happiness to confine him to
literature, should  his organization lead him to mechanical
pursuits; and  this is the case with every exercise of body
or mind.  The fact is,  that every member of the human
family was formed for happiness and usefulness in some
way or  other, and if  the business of life  be judiciously
adapted to the  capacity of the  individual, his time  will
pass more pleasantly, and he will be far more useful  than
he could be, were he  reluctantly compelled to engage in
business for which he was never capacitated, for which
he never felt an attachment, and  in which consequently
he never can succeed. 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
2:1
  The desire of a parent or the  fancy of a child, may
have an influence in selecting an occupation for which the
individual was never capacitated.   As for example, a man
engaging in business which requires  strong efforts of the
mind in planning, comparing, &c, if the  organs of cau-
sality and comparison be small, he never can reason with
that clearness which he would be enabled to, if  those or-
gans  were large at the  commencement; for, notwith-
standing  an increase of their size by exercise, they will
nevertheless remain comparatively small.
  This is the case with regard to every other faculty, and
no plan has as yet been devised  by which to judge accu-
rately of  the  capacity of *the mind, except by the  princi-
ples of phrenology.  These  principles  are fully and  as
clearly brought to view in Fowler's Practical Phrenology,
as in any  work extant,  and perhaps more  so ; and as tho
expense of the work is trilling compared to its  great val-
ue, it should find its way into every family library.
  Many convincing proofs are recorded of the importance
of accompanying literary pursuits with vigorous physical
exercise,  amor g which  is the  following, from  Professor
Fowler's " Pr;cti al  Phrenology," page 29.
  " Both while at College; and in my professional visits to
our principal  Colleges  since my graduation, I'have ob-
served it is a  uniform fact, that those students  who have
been brought  up without having labored, never took a high
intellectual stand, except  in  parrot-like  scholarship.—
They always showed a want of mental vim and pith, and
the powers of tough, close hard thinking.   After they en-
ter upon the business of life, their case is  still worse, for
then to rise to eminence is impossible.  If I am thankful
to God and my father for any thirir. it is that I  was made
to work hard  and constantly  on the  farm until eighteen
years of age,   when  I  began to  prepare for College.   I
left home  with only four dollars in the world, with my all
on my back, on a journey on foot  of 400 miles.   1 worked
my way to College and through College. Instead of earn-
ing money by teaching school, I supported  myself by saw- 
243
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
ing, splitting and carrying the wood of my fellow student
up three or four flights of stairs ;  improving in this way
every hour except study hours, and often portions of the
night.   My fellow students laughed at me then, but now
the boot is  on the other foot.  I thought  it a hard  row to
hoe, but a rich harvest it has yielded  me ; and you, read-
er, owe to this same cause whatever of delight or benefit
my lectures, writings and examinations afford you."
  Again, he says, on page 31, "  But, owing  to the bad
organization of society alluded to in the close of the chap-
ter on  temperaments,  men have no time to attend to their
health, in consequence of which the violated laws of na-
ture compel them to find time to I* sick, and to die sooner
than they otherwise would."
  Colby's Guide to Health, says,  " It is a law of  our na-
ture that a certain amount of active exercise in the  open
air must  be  taken every  day in order to be perfectly
healthy."
  In Buchan's Domestic Medicine, is the following,  " In-
activity never fails to induce a universal  relaxation of the
solids, which  dispose  the body to innumerable diseases.
When the solids are  relaxed, neither the digestion, nor
any of the secretions,  can be duly  performed.   In this
case the worst consequences must ensue.  How can per-
sons who spend the day  in easy chairs,  and the night on
beds of down, fail to be relaxed ?  Nor  do those  greatly
mend the matter, who never  stir  abroad but  in a coach.
sedan, or such like." 
MEDICAL BOTANIOT.
241
                 AN  APPENDIX

  In which the reader  will see the  horrid consequence*
tef the use of calomel, the lancet, &c,  as  exhibited by
the advocates for their use.  That these agents have been
the means of doing good, I am not disposed to deny;  but,
that they have ever done good that could not have been
effected by  nature assisting remedies, I seriously  doubt.
An account of  the death bed scene of some of the distin-
guished men whose memory is cherished with feelings of
veneration, bordering upon enthusiasm, may be taken  as a
fair specimen of thousands  whose  stations  in life did
not thus call forth the censure of medical observers.
   From Mattson's  Improved  Guide to Health, page  70:
" Washington, for instance, after having fought the battles
of his country unharmed, was killed, according to the  best
authority, by his physicians.   Byron, also, England's no-
blest poet, met with a similar fate ;  and I might mention
Spurzheim, Wirt,  Miss  Landon,  and  a host of others,
equally distinguished for their genius and virtues, who  paid
the  forfeit of their  lives by  obeying the injunctions of
their medical attendants.  With regard to the decease of
Washington, I will  quote the  observations of John Reid,
M. D., Physician to the Finsbury Hospital, England*  and
Professor of the Theory  and  Practice of Physic.
   " In reading the official report of the death of General
Washington," says Dr.  Reid, "I  should imagine there
were few  medical persons who did not feel astonishment
at the extraordinary manner in which that great man  was
treated by  his physicians, during his last and fatal indis-
position.
   Some time in the night of  the 13th of December,  it ia
said, the General was  seized by a disease called tho cy-
nanche trachealis or croup.
   During the  same night he  sent for a bleeder, who  took
from him 12 or 14 ounces of blood.
      VOfc. L              16 
*42"              IfEDICAL BOTANIST.
     Next morning a physician was sent for, who arrived ai
  Mount Vernon at 11 o'clock ;  when,  imagining danger in
  the case, he advised the calling of two consulting physi-
  cians.
     In the interval, however, he thought proper to employ,
  in spite of the 12 ounces that had already been expended,
  two copious bleedings.  Now,  when we consider  that
  these are called copious, and  the other is not noticed as
  such, and all the indifference with  which a future most co-
  pious bleeding, is afterwards mentioned, we may presume
  that each of these was at least 20 or 25 ounces.
    After this, 'two moderate doses of calomel were admin-
  istered.'  I know not exactly, what an American moderate
  dose of calomel may be ; but if it is fair to presume it be
  in  proportion to the bleedings,  we may conclude that it
  was at least very considerable.
    Upon the arrival of the first consulting physician, it was
 agreed,  that,  as there  were no signs  of accumulation in
 the bronchial vessels of the lungs, they should try anoth-
 er  bleeding.
   Now this appears to be perfectly inexplicable.  As there
 were, at present, no signs of accumulation in the bronchial
 vessels of the lungs,  they were driven to another bleed-
 ing.  Hence it will be seen, that this last bleeding was to
 produce  an accumulation in the bronchial vessels of the
 lungs!   There  was great difficulty of breathing, great
 inflammation ; but as there was as yet no accumulation in-
 the lungs, they were determined to  induce that also, and
 as a likely means of inducing it, had recourse to the most
 extravagant effusion of blood.   This is  not an unfair in-
 terpretation  of their words ; but  it could  not  have been
 their real meaning ; their real meaning it is impossible to
 discover.  In addition to all their previous venesections,
 thirty-two ounces are  now  drawn !   The medical reader
will not be surprised to find that this was unattended by
any apparent alleviation of the  disease.
  In the  next place, vapors  of vinegar  and water are fre-
 quently inhaled.  Two doses of calomel  were already 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
243
Riven, but this is not deemed sufficient;  ten grains of cal-
omel are added ; nor is  even this  sufficient.   Repeated
doses of  emetic tartar, amounting  in  all to  five or  six
grains, are now administered.   It is said, the  powers of
life now seemed to yield to the force of the disorder.   To
many, it may appear that the yielding of the vital princi-
ple, in these circumstances, was not altogether owing to
the force  of the disorder.
   The patient, lying in this feeble, nearly exhausted state,
is  to be still further tormented.   Blisters were next ap-
plied to his extremities, together with a  cataplasm of bran
and vinegar to his throat.
   It is observed that speaking, which was painful from the
beginning, now became scarcely practicable.   When  we
reflect upon the extreme  weakness to  which the patient
must, by this time,  have been reduced,  and that, he had
both a blister and a cataplasm of bran and vinegar to his
throat, can we wonder that speaking would be scarcely
practicable!  respiration  grew more and more  contracted
and imperfect, until after 11 o'clock on Saturday night,
when he expired without a struggle.
   Think of a man being within the brief space of a little
more than twelve hours, deprived  of 80 or 90  ounces of
blood ; afterward swallowing two moderate American  do-
ses of calomel, which were accompanied by an injection;
then ten grains of calomel and five  or six grains of emetic
tartar; vapors of vinegar and water frequently inhaled;
blisters  applied  to  his  extremities; a cataplasm of bran
and vinegar  applied to his throat, upon  which a blister
had already been fixed ;  is it surprising  that  when  thus
treated, the afflicted  General,  after  various  ineffectual
struggles for utterance, at length  articulated a desire  that
he might be allowed to die without interruption !
   To have resisted the fatal operation of such  herculean
remedies, one should  imagine  that this  venerable man
ought, at least, to have retained the vigor of  his earliest
youth."
   Thus speaks a member of the medical profession,  and 
S44
MSDICAL BOTANIST.
it will not be denied, perhaps, that he is  competent atp
thority.   As a professor in a medical college, his opinion
is certainly entitled to respect  and consideration.  The
official report to which he alludes,  was furnished by Dr.
Craik, attending physician of General Washington, and
Dr. Dick, consulting physician.   Of its accuracy, there is
not a doubt; and  Dr. Reid has not misrepresented it  in
the  slightest particular.  Independent of this  high au-
thority, however, it is generally admitted by medical men,
that Washington fell a victim to the lancet.   Dr. Joseph
Comstock, speaking of the effects of blood-letting in  dis-
eases of the throat, says, ' I have long  viewed  Gen.
Washington as  having  fallen a martyr to this practice.' —
(Boston Medical and Surgical Journal,  vol. xx.  No. 13.)
William Cobbett, in the eleventh volume of his works,
page 20, says,  * That  the lancet, which has destroyed,  in
America,  many more  than have been destroyed by tho
yellow fever,  put a period to the existence of Gen. Wash-
ington, NO ONE CAN DOUBT.'"
   Dr. Reid says, " If the employment of the lancet were
abolished  altogether,  it would  perhaps save annually a
greater number of lives, than in  any one  year the sword
has ever destroyed."
   Dr. Good, (well known as an author in the old school
practice,)  says, " The  science of medicine is a barbarous
jargon, and the  effects of our medicine on the human sys-
tem  are in the highest  degree uncertain, except, indeed,
that  they  have  already destroyed more lives than war,
pestilence, and famine combined."
  The effects of mercury are vividly portrayed by Profes-
Bor Chapman of Philadelphia.   See Professor Morrow's
lecture delivered in Cincinnati, Nov. 6, 1843.
  11 If you could see  what 1 almost daily see,  in  my pri-
vate practice, *   *   *  *  you would exclaim, as I  have
often done, O the lamentable ignorance which dictates the
use of that noxious drug, Calomel.  It is a disgraceful re-
proach to the profession of medicine—it is quackery, hor-
rid, unwarrantable, and murderous quackery.   What mer- 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
245
it do physicians flatter themselves they possess by being
able to salivate?  But I will ask another question: Who
is  there  that can stop the career of Calomel  when once
it has taken the  reins into its own possession?   He who
resigns the fate  of his  patient to Calomel is a vile  enemy
to the sick, and  if he has a tolerable practice will in a sin-
gle season lay the foundation  for a good  business for life,
for he will ever afterwards have enough to do to stop the
mercurial  broaches in the constitutions of his dilapidated
patients.   He has thrown himself in close contact with
Death and  will  have to fight him  at arms'  length as long
as one of his patients maintains a miserable existence."
   Dr. Powell, formerly professor in the Medical College
at Burlington, Vt.,in a letter to Dr. Wright of Montpelier,
says:—
   " It is to be hoped that the  time is not far distant, when
all deleterious poisons will be struck  from our Materia
 Mcdica.   It is my opinion, that calomel or mercury has
made  far more  diseases since it has been  so universally
exhibited, than  all  the epidemics  of the  country.  It is
 more than ten years since I have administered a dose of it,
although I have been daily in the practice of physic, and
 I  am sure  I have been more successful in practice than
 when I  made use of it.   The last dose I had in the house,
 I gave to some  rats, and it as radically killed them as arse-
 nic."
    Dr. Graham, of the University of Glasgow,  says :—
    " We have often  had every benevolent feeling  of our
 mind called into painful exercise, upon viewing patients,
 already  exhausted  by protracted illness, groaning under
 accumulated miseries of an active course of mercury, and
 by this forever deprived of perfect restoration ; a barbarous
 practice, the inconsistency, folly and injury of which  no
 words can sufficiently describe."
    Dr. Robertson, of Cincinnati, says in his lectures,
    " It is astonishing,  and will  remain an astonishment to
 future generations, that the  very rankest poisons are the
 greatest remedies now in use in the world, and have been 
546
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
for the last fifty years.   It would  be a melancholy talc,
could it be told of the millions who have perished through
this  practice."
  Professor Barton, of the Medical College of Louisiana,
says of the tomato, " I  freely wish it success, after having
witnessed, for sixteen years, the horrible ravages commit-
ted by calomel."
  By removing disease with such unnatural'agents, anoth-
er disease is often created, more  to be dreaded  than tho
first, as the following, from the  pen of the great Dr. Reese,
of London, will clearly show :—
  "  We know not whether we have most reason to hail the
discovery of mercury as a blessing or regard it as a curse,
since the diseases it entails, are as  numerous as those
which it cures.  There are,  also,  serious  objections to
other articles of the metalic world ;  antimony, iron,  and
arsenic, are dangerous  remedies, in the hands of the igno-
rant ; and mankind, perhaps, in the aggregate, would be
benefitted by their expulsion from the medical  practice."
   Another sentence from the same pen, may not be amiss.
   " Poor  must  be the resources of that physician's mind,
and  very  narrow  his knowledge  of medical botany, who
could not,  from the vegetable kingdom, alone, cure most
of the diseases of the human frame."
   I have  thus, in this  Appendix, endeavored  to show the
reasons which have impelled me to action.
   Toward many of the medical faculty  I entertain feelings
of respec, and friendship,  and  believe  them to be hon-
est  in their efforts to restore  the languishing suflerer to
health; but, after witnessing the superior  efficacy of bo-
tanic remedies, in many cases which had been  pronoun-
ced  incurable,  I am astonished that any could be found to
oppose the progress  of medical botany, and can account
for it only in their adherence to their education. 
MKDICAL BOTANIST.
24T
«L.OSSARY.
Abdomen—The cavity of the body below the midriff.
Acute—Sharp, pointed ;  the violent stage of disease.
Alteratives change the action gradually.
Alluvial—Added by the wash of water, intervale land
Anodynes mitigate pain.
Antacids counteract acidity.
Ami—Against, opposite to.
Anti-Bilious—Against bilious affections.
Anti-Dysenteric—Good in dysentery.
Anti-Septics—Counteract putrefaction
Anti-Spasmodics—Counteract spasms!
Aromatic—Odoriferous ;  of an agreeable scent
Astringents are contracting to the animal fibre.
Auditory- -Pertaining to the sense of hearing.
Auxiliary—An assistant.
Biennial plants perish the second year.
Bronchial—Pertaining to the wind pipe.
Bulbous roots are round,  like the garlic, &c.
Calculoqs— Stony or  gritty substances.
Carminatives expel wind.
Cathartics purge downward ; physic.
Caustics consume flesh ;  corroding application*
Capillary—Minute, small in diameter.
Capsule—The seed vessel of a plant.
Cellular—Consisting of,  or containing cells.
Chronic—Of  long duration; not acute.
Conserves—The juice of fruit preserved with sugar.
Concretion—The union  of  particles into a body.
Costiveness—Unnatural  retention of the feces.
Coagulate—To change from a fluid to a thick mass^
Congestion—A collection of blood or other fluids, [death.
Crisis—The change of disease which indicates recovory or 
548
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
Culinary—Relating to the kitchen ;  for table us*.
Cutaneous—Pertaining to the skin.
Demulcent—Softening,  nullifying, assuasive.
Detergents—Cleanse the fluids.
Dilapidated—Decayed by age, or neglect.
Diaphoretics—Promote  insensible perspiration.
Discutient—Dispersing  to morbid matter.
Diuretics—Promote the  discharge of urine.
Effluvia—That which rises in vapors.
Emetics—Excite vomiting.
Emmenagogues—Promote the monthly evacuation
Engorgement—A collection of humors.
Epispastics are drawing or blistering applications.
Equilibrium—Well balanced ; equal circulation.
Errhines, promote sneezing.
Eructation—Forcing up  wind, Sic, from the-stomach.
Expectorants, promote the secretions of the lungs.
Fauces—The surface above the  palate.
Febrifuge—A medicine  to mitigate or remove fever.
Febrile—Indicating fever.
Feces—The natural discharges by stool.
Fetid—Of a disagreeable scent;  stinking.
Flatulency—Wind in the stomach or bowels.
Fluctuation—Moving as waves.
Foot-Stalk—The stalk of the leaf, [exceedingly sensitive.
Fungus—An unnatural  excrescence, which,  in  sores i»
Glands, serve as strainers in the secretion of fluids.
Glottis—The head or aperture of the larynx or wind pipe
Hereditary—Received from parents.
Hydragogues, promote watery discharges.
Induration—The act of  hardening.
Inspissated—A fluid thickened or hardened.
Lacerate—To cut, tear  or rend irregularly.
Larynx—The wind pipe, the trachea.
Lassitude—A sense of weariness or fatigue.
Laxatives, gently promote evacuations by stool.
Ligament—A strong substance which unites the bones
Lithontriptics, dissolve calculous concretion* 
MITO1CAL BOTANIST.
249
Lymph—A colorless fluid in animal bodies.
Lythotomy—The art of cutting for the stone in the bladder
Marasmus—A wasting of  flesh without apparent disease
Midriff—The partition between the thorax  and abdomen
Morbid—Diseased ;  not in a healthy state.
Mucilage—A tenacious liquid.
Mucus—A tenacious discharge or fluid.
Muscle—The fleshy, fibrous part of animals.
Narcotic—Causing stupefaction, or insensibility.
Nauseate—To produce sickness at the stomach.
Nephritics, remove diseases of the kidneys.
Nervines, give tone to the  nerves.
Neutralize—To render inactive.
Obtuse—Blunt Or dull; not acute.
Orifice—The month of a tube, pipe or other cavity.
Paralytic—Paralyzed, or, inclining to palsy.
Parotid—Pertaining to the glands under & before the ear
Paroxysm—A fit; exacerbation or violent stage of disease.
Pelvic—Belonging to the pelvis. See  Vol. II.
Pendulous—Hanging, not supported below.
Perennial plants  continue  year after year.
Pericardium—The membrane which includes tho heart
Pinnated—Leaves in opposite pairs on the foot-stalk.
Potion—A dose.
Premonitory—Giving warning or notice.
Prolific—Fruitful, productive.
Protuberance—Swelled above the adjacent parts
Pungent—Sharp, biting, acrid.
Purulent—Consisting of pus.
 Pus—The matter of a well digested sore.
 Putrid—Rotten,  corrupt.
Rectum—The lowest portion of the intestines.
Refrigerant—Cooling, counteracting to heat.
 Retching—Straining efforts to vomit.
 Saliva, the secretion of the salivary glands, spittle.
 Scirhus or Scirrus, indurate i, hard, knotty.
 Scrotum, the envelope for  the testicles.
 Semen, the generative fluid secreted by the testicles 
2.5»
MEDICAL BOTANIST.
Serrated, formed like the edge of a saw.
Sedative, soothing, quieting.
Secretion, the act of separating fluids.
Serum, the transparent part of the blood, Sit.
Slough, to come off.
Spasms, violent involuntary action of the muscles.
Sphincter, the closing muscle for several passage*
Spontaneous, uncultivated, unassisted by art.
Stimulant, that which excites to  action
Styptics, counteract hemorrhages.
Sudorifics, promote sweating.
Suppurating, forming pus.
Syncope, fainting or swooning.
Tenesmus, painful efforts or urgent desire to  go to stool
Tension, being stretched or strained to stiffness.
Tepid, luke warm.
Testicle, the organ of seed in male animals.
Therapeutical, teachings or labors for the cure of diseases
Thorax, the chest; the  cavity above the midriff.
Tissue, texture or organization of parts.
Tonics, give tone to the animal fibre.
Tonsil glands, are  each  side of the base of tho tongue.
Torpor, dullness, languor, inactivity.
Torrefaction, the process of drying by the fire.
Triennial, plants perish the third year.
Triple, three equal parts.
Tuft, a cluster, a clump.
Tumor, a swelling.
Tympanum, the drum of the  ear.
Ulcer, a discharging tumor.
Umbel, a cluster of blossoms  or  seeds.
Valetudinarian, a person uncommonly careful of health.
Vermifuges, expel or destroy worms.
Virus, foul matter of an  ulcer, poison.
Viscera, the internal parts, the stomach, intestines, &«.
Viscid, tenacious,  glutinous, sticky.
Vitiated, injured in quality, rendered impure.
Volatile, easily passing  off, by evaporation. 
MEDICAL BOTANIST.               *W
INDEX.
PART FIRST
Contains a description of plants  in  alphabetic order, so
  that it is considered unnecessary to refer to each plant
  in the index, pages                           5 to fin
Also, rul«;s for collecting and curing  plants, pages 63—04
A table of directions	61	Class 23 Styptics	■ 7fl
Remarks	66	24 Sudorifics	fiO
Classes		25 Tonics	85
1 Anodynes	do	26 Vermifuges	86
2 Antacids	67	Ague and Fever	140
3 Anti-bilious	do	Alkaline tincture	93
4 Anti-septics	68	Alterative	
fl Anti-spasmodies	do	Cleansing powders	119
6 Astringents	do	Detergent powders	120
7 Carminatives	69	Detergent sirup	127
8 Cathartics	do	Animal oils	Stf
9 Detergents	70	Anodyne	
10 Diaphoretics	71	Cough drops	93
11 Diuretics	72	Cough powders	120
12 Emetics	do	Drops	98
13 Emmenagogues	74	Infusion	104
1 4 Epispastics	do	Liniment	107
J 5 Errhines	75	Plaster	116
16 Expectorants	76	Powders	120
17 Laxatives	do	Tincture	as
18 Lithontriptics	77	Anti Bilious	
19 Nephritics	do	Beer	i *
20 Nervines	78	Infusioi.	105
21 Stimulants, diffusibl	e79	Pills	113
22 Stimulants, durable	do	Restorative sirup	128
 
552
MEDICAL botanist.
Anti-Bilious Sirup
Anti-Cathartic
  Powders
Anti-dysenteric pills
 '•       "     powders
 "  dyspeptic bitters
         "    elixir
         "    pills
 "       " tonic sirups
 "  Scrofulous tincture
 "  Spasmodic     "
Apoplexy
Asthma
Asthma plaster omitted
 by  accident.    Apply
 the strengthening plas-
  ter.
Asthmatic pills
    "    tincture
Baldness
Balsams
Bathing and Fomenting
   applications
Beer, pleasant drink
Biles
Black drops
   "    plaster
   " strengthening plast.
 Bleeding at the nose
 Blood root tincture
 Bloody urine
 Bronchitis
 Bruises and falls
 Bucks streng'ing sirup
 Burns and scalds
 Camphorated oil
     "        spirits
 Cancer
128 Cancer Caustic 117		na
	" Infusion	ion
120	" Plasters	117
114	Danine madness	149
124	Janker	149
95	" Infusion	105
99	" Powders	121
114	" Sirup	12^
PiTlCanker rash		205
99jCarminative beer		109
100!	Catarrh	150
142	Cathartic	
143	Infusion	105
	Mixture	13;
	Pills, four kinds 114 134	
	Powders 120 123	
119	Chapped hands	150
115	Cholera morbus	do
100	Cleansing decoction	97
144	Colds	151
87	Colic	15'J
	Colic Powders	121
89	Compound	
110	Oil of Tar, see errata	
145	Oil of Wormseed	126
100	Sirup ol Wa-ahoo	123
117	Tincture	101
110	Conserves	93
144	Consumption	154
101	Corns	156
144	Costiveness	do
146	Couoh	157
do	Beer	109
128	Drops, two kinds	101
146	Infusion	105
134	Mixture	135
101	Powders	121
147	Sirups, six kinds	m
 
MiDICAL BOTANIST.
3o*
Oramp	157	Exercise	22S
Croup or rattles	do	Expectorant &. T. sirup	130
Delirium tremens	158	Eye salve	125
Demulcents, 5 kinds	133	Eye water 135 136	
Detergent		Fainting or swooning	169
Beer	109	Febrifuge infusion	106
Cathartic powders	121	Fevkr	170
Decoction	97	Bilious remittent	175
Cargle	136	Chill	do
Infusion	106	Sore	175
Laxative powders	121	Spotted	174
Sirup	129	'fyphus	173
Diabetis	159	Powders, 4 kinds 12;	123
Diaphoretic Beer	109	Fits and Spasms	176
Diarrhoea	160	For Ague and fever	138
Diet	226	For bilious colic	137
Diseases of the ear	160	For burns	do
u » eye	161	For canker	do
" " liver	163	For diarrhoea	138
Discutient liniment	107	For inflammation	134
" ointment	110	For " of the kidneys	138
Diuretic Beer	109	For a whitlow ll9 137	
Drops	102	Foxglove tincture	lU'J
Infusion	106	Gall pills	115
Tincture	102	" plaster	118
Sirup Draughts	130	General debility	176
	92	German liniment	107
Drawing salve	125	Glossary	247
Dress	222	Gout	177
Dropsy	164	Gravel and stone	178
Dysentery	167	Green salve	126
Dyspepsia &c	21S	Headache	179
Easing salve	125	" drops	102
Emetic powders " tinctures	122	Healing salve, 2 kinds	125
	102	Health restorative sirup	131
Epilepsy Erysipelas	166 16S	Heartburn Hepitalga	179 do
" tincture	102	Hernia ointment	HI
 
1VI
MBDICAL BOTANIST.
Hiccough		180	Narcotic cancer oint'ml	HI
Honey Balsam		136	" sprain ointment	do
Hooping cough		180	Nerve ointment	112
Hydrogogue Ca'ic.	pills	115	" powders, 4 kinds	123
Hypochondria		181	Nervine liniment	107
Hysterics		183	" tincture	103
Incontinence of urine		184	Nervous debiliiy	196
Incubus		185	Neuralgia	do
Inflammation			Obesity	197
Of the lungs		186	Ointment for burns	137
Intestines or bowels		18b	Opium pills	116
Peritoneum		do	Opodeldoc	131
Kidneys and bladder		do	Palpitation	197
Stomach		189	Palsey	198
Spleen		do	Phrenology	237
Influenza		do	Piles	198
Injections		93	Pimpled face	199
Insanity		190	Pleurisy	200
Itch		do	Poppy sirup	130
" Ointment		111	Poultices	91
Jaundice		190	Pungent tincture	103
"* Bitters		95	Quinsy	200
Laxative anti-bilious pill		sll6	Remarks	131
" beer		109	Item arks on dyspepsia	219
" bitters		96	Hestorative sirup	131
" powders		123	Rheumatic bitters	96
Lethargy-		191	" Elixir	103
Liniment for burns	, &c.	138	" Lotions	108
Lock Jaw		191	" Ointment	112
Lumbago		192	" Plaster 118 119	
Lumbar abscess		do	" Sirup	133
Measles		do	" Tincture	103
Medical porridge		134	Rheumatism	201
Miliary fever		194	Rhubarb sirup	132
Mineral wash		137	Rickets	202
Mortification		195	Ring worm	203
Mumps		do	Rupture	do
Mustard plaster		118	" Plaster	119
 
MEDICAL  BOTANIST.
?.%T
Valine mixture          135
Salt rheum             205
    il    ointment     11-2
Rarsaparilla mead       110
Scald head             205
    "    ointment     112
Scarlet fever, see scarlatina
Scaretts ointment        do
Scarlatina '            205
Scrofula                208
Self pollution           207
Simple ointments       113
Simple salves, 6 kinds  126
Soap salve             135
Soda beer              109
Sore mouth             208
Spinal distortion         do
Spitting blood           do
Spontaneous vomiting   209
Sprains                 do
Stimulating bitters        96
    "     elixir       104
    "     tincture .     do
Stitch in the back or side 209
Stomachic Bitters
          Pills
Strengthening plaster
St.  Vitus'dance
Sirups
Styptic sirup, 2 kinds
Sudorific infusion
Suppression of  urine
 96
115
119
209
127
132
106
209
Sweet tine, of rhubarb   104
Temperaments          231
Tonic and nervine bitters 97
  "   Decoction         98
  "   Powders         124
 Toothache             209
Tooth powders          124
To purify whiskey      135
To stop vomiting        137
Ulcers                 210
Urinary powders        124
Veg. and Min. poisons   210*
Vegetable anti-convulsivelOft
    "   essential oils     88
    "   expressed oils    89
    "   restorative      133
Venereal disease        211
Vermifuge powders      121
Virtigo or giddiness     213
Volatile tincture         104
Warming comp.powders 121
Wans                  213
Washes                 90
Water brash            213
Wet bandages           84
Wet sheet               81
White swelling         214
Whitlow or felon         do
       "   plaster  119  137
Worms                 215
Wounds                216
Velio w cathartic powdersl25f 
ERRATA.
  f>a page 42 for piprisway, read pipsisway.
  On page 72, third line from bottom ;  directions for the
use of white ash not correct, and, as other articles  are su-
perior, the white ash should not be used as an emetic.
  Page 126  bottom line, for pungus read fungus.
  Page 136, the directions are not correct for the
                COMPOUND OIL OP TAR.
  Mix well together equal quantities each of the oil of tar
and tincture of blood root.  Dose, 10 to 20 drops on loaf
sugar or in new milk before meals ; or, of the oil 5 to  10
drops.  Good in cases of cough, pain in the breast, side,
&c, in tho absence of febrile excitement.
  Page 139 fourth line from bottom, for Humrn read Hunn
  Other typographical errors have been noticed, yet they
are not such as will be apt to mislead the mind. 
 
 
v.i
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