AN
EXPERIMENTAL DISSERTATION
ON THE
CHEMICAL AND MEDICAL PROPERTIES
OF THE
Nicotiana Tabacum
OF
LINNÆUS,
COMMONLY KNOWN BY THE NAME OF
TOBACCO.
By EDWARD BRAILSFORD,
OF CHARLESTON, SOUTH-CAROLINA, MEMBER OF THE MEDICAL
AND CHEMICAL SOCIETIES OF PHILADELPHIA.
PHILADELPHIA:
PRINTED BY JOHN ORMROD, N°. 41, CHESNUT
STREET.
1799.




AN
INAUGURAL DISSERTATION,
SUBMITTED TO
THE EXAMINATION
OF THE
REV. JOHN EWING, S. T. P. PROVOST ;
THE
TRUSTEES and MEDICAL PROFESSORS
OF THE
UNIVERSITY of PENNSYLVANIA,
FOR THE DEGREE OF
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE,
On THE SIXTH DAY OF JUNE, 1799.


TO
ALEXANDER BARON, M. D.
OF
CHARLESTON, SOUTH-CAROLINA.
PERMIT me, kind Sir, thus publicly to avow
my acknowledgment for the many civilities I have hither-
to received from you and your amiable family, when under
your tuition: a period that I ever reflect on with the
warmest glow of pleasure: and accept my assurances, that
in every stage of life, I shall preserve that friendship and
grateful remembrance of your judicious council, which
you have inspired by your attentive concern for my welfare,
and which shall never be erased from the mind of
Your affectionate Friend
And PUPIL,
EDWARD BRAILSFORD.


TO
SAMUEL WILSON, M. D.
OF
CHARLESTON, SOUTH-CAROLINA.
DEAR SIR,
I EMBRACE this opportunity, of avow-
ing the lively sense I entertain of your amicable
disposition towards me, when under your imme-
diate care, and assure you in the language of
truth, that a grateful recollection of your friend-
ly admonitions will ever warm the breast of
Your affectionate Pupil,
EDWARD BRAILSFORD. 


TO
JAMES WOODHOUSE, M. D.
Professor of Chemistry
in the
UNIVERSITY of PENNSYLVANIA.
SIR,
ALLOW me to adopt this mode of expres-
sing my acknowledgment, for the many testimo-
nies of friendship I have experienced from you,
and suffer me at the same time to declare that a
grateful remembrance of the many favors you
have conferred, will ever be retained by
Your affectionate Friend,
EDWARD BRAILSFORD.

CONTENTS.
PAGE.
INTRODUCTION, - 9
CHAP. I.
The natural history of tobacco, and of its
first introduction as an article of luxury. - 14
CHAP. II.
A concise account of the influence of tobacco
on living systems, illustrated with a few ex-
periments. - 19
CHAP. III.
Observations on the noxious effects of tobacco
on the human, species, when used in the form of
smoking, snuffing, and chewing. - 32
CHAP. IV.
Of the prejudicial effects of the use of to-
bacco on the moral faculty. - 38
CHAP. V.
Of the analysis of tobacco, and the operation
of its constituent parts on living systems. - 42
CHAP. VI.
Observations on the experiments. - 55
CHAP. VII.
An account of its medical virtues in eradi-
cating certain diseases. -  58 

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.
A. A branch of the tobacco plant.
B. An interior view of its blossom.
C. A posterior view of its blossom.
Fig. 1. Represents a seed vessel in a state of maturity.
Fig. 2. A transverse section of a seed vessel, which exhibits the
distribution of the seeds.
Fig. 3. A longitudinal section of a seed vessel.
Fig. 4. A calix, with the five stamina and the pistillum.
Fig. 5. Represents a longitudial section of a blossom, which
shews its internal structure.
Fig. 6. A species of phalœna, or butter-fly, very common on
the blossoms of the tobacco.
Fig. 7. The tobacco worm.
Fig. 8. The root and some of the inferior leaves.

INTRODUCTION.
WHEN we explore the extensive regions of the
globe, and contemplate the many plants which the benefi-
cent disposer of all things has given as useful ornaments to
the earth, and at the same time reflect that through the ig-
norance or indolence of man, many of those valuable sub-
jects are permitted to wither in our fields or forests, without
ever attracting the attention of those mortals, for the alle-
viation of whose corporeal infirmities they were indubita-
bly intended, many unpleasant ideas must naturally intrude
themselves on our minds— Regret is awakened in our
breasts at the inactivity of our ancestors, whose unpardona-
ble sloth has suffered diseases to exist as opprobria medicinæ 
for the relief of which many plants incontestibly flourish,
and which from inattention or some other omission equally
culpable, die neglected, and answer no valuable purpose but
to fertilize the soil which gave them birth.
The free inhabitants of the United States of America,
would merit additional censure were they to evince a simi-
lar supineness. Possessed of pre-eminent advantages for
rendering valuable acquistions to the Materia Medica, their
neglect of such pursuits would prove a national disgrace,
and be considered by their posterity equally criminal as the
most heinous offence against civil government.
Inhabiting a vast extent of territory, it would be arraign-
ing divine goodness, not to suppose, that he has bestowed
with a liberal hand, sources of alleviation to those miseries,
which were incurred by the loss of our primeval innocence. 
B

(10)
IT has been justly observed by a very learned author,* that
"the strength of a state is not to be computed by extent of
country, but by the number of its citizens, and the utility
of their labour." This should actuate us in the pursuit of
useful knowledge, so as to render the extent of country
which we inhabit more useful and more wealthy, whereby,
not only our literary character as a nation, but also our li-
berty and independence will be effectually established.
That there are plants diffused all over the great conti-
nent of America, endued with the most active medical vir-
tues, is incontrovertible ; but to use the words of the poet,
" Full many a flower is born to blush unseen,
" And waste its sweetness on the desert air."
The industry and wisdom of man are now the only re-
quisites to develope those virtues, and render them benefi-
cial to mankind.
To the honour of our infant republic, the science of me-
dicine has been laudably promoted by the invaluable ac-
quisitions of the professor of botany and materia medica in
the university of Pennsylvania, with a view to cultivate an in-
timate acquaintance with the indigenous plants of this coun-
try. -The literary fame of this gentleman is too well known
to require any eulogy from my pen; he has with as much
ingenuity as industry, paved the way to facilitate the future
researches of men of science, and in language peculiarly
pleasing and descriptive, has given an agreeable animation
to useful facts, so as to render them not only grateful to the
reader, but also truly beneficial and interesting. 
Were candidates for medical honours to pursue this
laudable example of their preceptor, they would enrich the
 * Rollin's Arts 

( 11 )
Materia Medica with many valuable articles; but, unfor-
tunately for this branch of science, a depraved predilection
for the thread worn subject of diseases, tempts them to
launch their bark into the dangerous sea of controversy,
and frequently without the necessary implements for the
effectual execution of such an undertaking.
Attracted by the ostentatious glare of hypothetical
reasoning, they frequently adopt with avidity theories the
most extravagant and fallacious, and without examining the
solidity of the opinions they embrace, confide entirely to
the judgment of others, and with the greatest temerity
risque their reputation on that unsubstantial basis.
When philosophy shall be esteemed an indispensable
appendage to the medical character, then shall such incon-
veniences cease to exist. The susceptible mind of man,
enlightened by the rays of philosophy, will then dissipate
the clouds of ignorance, and experimental enquiries shall
then be cherished as the surest vehicles to truth.
I have been prompted to adopt the subject of Nico-
tiana, not from any vain idea of my ability to do ample jus-
tice to the medical qualities of this plant, but from an an-
xious solicitude to contribute my mite towards the promo-
tion of one of the most useful branches of science, and I
trust that from this consideration, my experiments and opi-
nions will be examined with an eye of lenity, but, at the
same time, with candour and impartiality. I have to regret
extremely, that a serious indisposition, for near two months,
unfortunately precluded my entering as minutely into the
analysis of Tobacco, as I at first contemplated ; but I have
endeavoured to atone for this deficiency, by attending par- 

( 12 )
icularly to its influence on the system, and also to the re-
spective operations of its constituent parts.
The exhibition of Nicotiana, as a medicine, for the
mitigation of many diseases to which mankind are incident,
has been unfortunately but little attended to by physicians.
The deleterious effects with which it is endowed, and
the supposed danger of exhibiting it on this account, have
led medical characters to depreciate the worth of a medi-
cine, whose benign influence, by a judicious administration,
in eradicating certain diseases, has, in many instances, been
evidently confirmed.
It has been declared, by some superficial observers, to
be useless, from the repeated proofs of its inefficacy in mi-
tigating the violence of those diseases, in which, many more
accurate inquirers have asserted it proved beneficial. Others
have alledged, that the baneful powers, with which it is re-
plete, dissuade from an use of it. In consequence of these
chimerical assertions, a medicine which would prove a valua-
ble acquisition to the Materia Medica, has been almost en-
tirely expunged from modern practice,
If we were to admit such injudicious opinions to go-
vern our reason, in selecting medical plants, how few would
be the number which would engage the attention of the
timid and injudicious pracitioner ! for in the hands of such
only are powerful medicines rendered injurious, and in the
hands of such also the most lenient prove obnoxious. The
invaluable aphorism of Dr. Withering, therefore, merits the
attention of every practitioner of medicine ; he justly ob-
serves that, "potions in small doses are the best medicines,
and the best medicines in too large doses are poisonous." 

( 13 )
It would be as inconsistent to stigmatize this plant with
the appellation of poison, as it would be to pronounce a
crum of bread noxious in its quality, because it has in some
cases entered the trachea, and occasioned instantaneous death.
The conclusions which I have formed on the subject
which constitutes the subsequent pages of this dissertation
have been founded on experiments, and those experiments,
though few, have been conducted with accuracy. They
have been mutually the sources of much mental disquietude,
and the dissidence I now feel in submitting them to the scru-
tiny of the learned, tends considerably to augment the dis-
agreeable emotions which, at this time, disturb my tran-
quility : however, I shall consider myself richly compen-
sated for every inconvenience, should any word or thought
contained in these pages prove propitious in exciting some
more accurate observer to a more minute investigation of
this copious subject. 


NATURAL HISTORY.
CHAPTER I.
The natural history of Tobacco, and of its first introduction
as an article of luxury.
WE have accounts, in different authors of several
species and varieties of this plant, but as an accurate de-
scription of them may be acquired in almost every botanical
book, it would be altogether useless for me to enter into an
elaborate definition of each in particular. I shall therefore
confine myself to that species which is thus designated by
the great Linnæus, "Nicotiana Tabacum: foliis lanceolate-
ovatis sessilibus decurrentibus, floribus acutis."
It is termed by Caspar Bauhin, Nicotiana major lati-
folia. According to the natural method of Linnæus, it be-
longs to the 28th order, called Luridœ. Among the abori-
gines of the continent of America, it was distinguished
by the appellation of pœtum, whilst those who inhabited the
islands, called it yoli*.
According to Sir Hans Sloane†, its original name was
picielt, but was termed tobacco by the Spaniards, from the
circumstance of its being brought from the island of Tobago,
Where it grew almost spontaneously.
Tobacco was first introduced into Europe in the
year 1559 by John Nicot, lord of Villemain, who was agent
* Encyclopedia.
† Sir Hans Sloane's Natural History of Jamaica



( 15 )
in Portugal for the King of France, from whence he
brought the plant, and presented it to the Queen : from
this circumstance it was called Herba Regina, and in honor
of him Nicotiana*.
Lobel and others accounted this, as well as the other
species of Nicotiana, an Hyosciamus†, and called it Hyoscia-
mus luteus and dubius, in consequence of which some have
given it the English name of yellow Henbane. It is arranged
by Linnæus in his fifth class, Pentandria Monogynia the sta-
mina consisting of five subulated filaments, topped with ob-
long antherœ ; the style rises from the rudiment of the
fruit single. The flowers are large and of a beautiful red,
and annexed to long and slender foot-stalks : they are of a
monopetalous tubelous form, and grow on the tops of the
branches, and of the main stalk ; the tube is longer than
the cup, and the limb which spreads open is divided into
five acute-pointed segments.
The capsule which succeeds the flower is bivalved and
bilocular, is also large, and of an oval form : it opens
longitudinally, and sheds extremely minute feeds, but very
numerous.
The root is divided into many parts, grows very thick
and long, and is furnished with an infinity of small fibres.
The growth of this plant is generally from five to fix feet
in height, but sometimes more, depending upon the season,
and fecundity of the soil. The stalk is substantial, round,
very erect, and divided into branches. The leaves are
large, numerous, and distributed in an alternate manner :
* Theatrum Botanicum, page 711.
† Theatrum Botanicum. 


( 16 )
they are of a deep green, and have petioli, or foot-stalks,
but surround the common stalk, in great part at their base.
Tobacco is a native of America, and was first sent to
Spain and different parts of Europe, for the purpose of or-
namenting their gardens, but so great was the demand for
the dried leaves, that it at length became an article of com-
merce, and is at this present period almost universally re-
sorted to as a luxury.
The Indians formerly made use of it as a vulnerary, and
ascribed many virtues to it as a medicine. They entertain
an idea, that tobacco was brought them down from the hea-
vens by the Great Spirit, who descended for the express
purpose of presenting them with this plant, in order that it
might be spread throughout the land for the benefit of their
species. Hence many nations of that tribe, make use of it
in certain forms of their religion.—It is called by them Eche.
Travellers assert, that they often resort to the great
mountain, where the angel appeared, and do homage to that
spot, on which their ancestors first received fo divine a plant.
It is alledged by Sir Hans Sloane,* " that the priests of
Espaniola, called Bohitis, who are medical characters as well
as theologists, make a practice of chewing and smoking to-
bacco, until they become perfectly inebriated, and in this
situation they perform many gesticulations, pretending like-
wise to recount for the will of God, what they have seen."
They feign also to perfect radical cures among many of the
diseased, and so prejudiced are the people in their favour,
as to imagine themselves perfectly relieved. The form
* Sir Hans Sloane's natural history of Jamaica. 

( 17 )
which they observe on this occasion, as related by Sir Hans
Sloane, is in the following singular manner; "when they
attempt to cure, they shut themselves up with the sick, sur-
round him, smoking him with the same; suck out of his
shoulders what they say was his disease, shewing a stone or
bone they kept in their mouths, which the women keep as
relicks, thinking they facilitate birth."
Thevet affirms that the women among the Aborigines of
America were led away with an idea, that indulging in the
use of tobacco was not only injurious to the body, but that
it also prevented conception, and tended greatly to diminish
the venereal appetite, in consequence of which, they for-
bore the use of it in any form whatever.
The Portuguese attributed many virtues to this plant,
and pronounced it a powerful counterpoison; hence they
have given it the appellation of Herba Santa.
Sir Richard Greenfield, on his discovery of Virginia
in 1585, observed that the Indians made great use of tobac-
co in clay pipes, for the preservation of their health. Pleas-
ed with the novelty of the circumstance, he took several of
the pipes with him on his return to England, which were
introduced into court: others were made agreeable to their
construction, and from that period the use of smoking soon
became general.
It was first introduced among the Oriental nations by
the Dutch* seamen, who used to carry pipes about them
made of palm leaves, in which they smoked to ease their
weariness, as well as suspend a disposition for food.
* Sir Hans Sloane.
C 

( 18 )
The Indians after having gathered their crop of to-
bacco, hang it up in their houses for the purpose of curing,
after this is perfected, they take four or five leaves, and
wrap them up in the great leaf of a tree, in the form of a
funnel; they then apply fire to the extremity, and inhale the
smoke, which being frequently repeated, causes them to sub-
sist three or four days*, without partaking of any aliment.
They practice this more particularly, when they contemplate
going to war, or are about to predict the termination of fu-
ture important events. It is considered by them as the
most valuable offering that can be made to the beings that
they worship. They use it in all their civil and religious
ceremonies. When once the spiral wreaths of its smoke
ascend from the feathered pipe of peace, the compact that
has been just made, is considered as sacred and inviolable.
Likewise when they address their Great Father, or his
guardian spirits, residing, as they believe, in every extraor-
dinary production of nature, they make liberal offerings to
them of this valuable plant, not doubting but that they are
thus secured of protection‡.
* It is universally acknowledged that tobacco does not impart
any degree of nourishment to the body, but on the contrary tends
greatly to reduce obecity ; yet such is its stimulating quality, that it
supports the system for several days successively, above what may be
termed the hungry point. This is taken notice of by Mr. Kerr†, with
respect to opium. " The eastern nations," says this author, "are
so well convinced, by experience, of its powers in diminishing the
appetite, that in the famine which prevailed in the East-Indies, in
the year 1770, the wretched sufferers purchased it at exhorbitant
prices, to allay the cravings of hunger, and smooth the approach to
death."
† Kerr. Lond. Med. Obser. vol. v. art. 28.
‡ See Encyclopedia. 


( 19 )
CHAPTER II.
A concise account of the influence of Tobacco, on living sys-
tems, illustrated by a few experiments.
That tobacco is both a powerful emetic and cathartic,
when exhibited in any form whatever, is generally admit-
ted : we find that all authors, who have written on its effects,
have unanimously concurred in this opinion; some have
also subscribed to its being efficacious in promoting the re-
nal discharge ; but with respect to its sedative or stimula-
ting effects on the living system, various opinions have hi-
therto existed.
Notwithstanding the sagacity and experience of Doc-
tor Fowler in many respects, the influence of Nicotiana on
the human system, in regard to its stimulating quality, en-
tirely escaped his attention.
After drawing several inferences, relative to the opera-
tion of this medicine, in a concluding part of his work*,
he observes, that it possesses a sedative quality†, and fre-
quently proves laxative : on this account he supposes that
*Fowler on Dropsy.
† A similar opinion was formerly entertained of opium; but
the ingenious experiments of Doctor Crumpe, must sufficiently de-
monstrate, to every unprejudiced mind, the stimulating quality of that
medicine; and that its supposed seditive effects, are solely to be at-
tributed to a secondary operation, or indirect debility induced by its
immense stimulating property, when disproportioned to the excita-
bility of the system. 


( 20 )
it may prove salutary in many painful cases, where costive-
ness may render opiates exceptionable.
That it is a laxative, I have almost uniformly observed,
but with respect to its being endued with a sedative quality
the subsequent experiments will greatly invalidate.
It is not my intention or wish to enter into the field
of controversy on this head, and therefore I have attempted
to define by experiments, the unequivocal operation of this
plant. It is unquestionably the most substantial basis on
which we can found our arguments, and to such we must
ultimately appeal for the attainment of truth.
The stimulating effects of tobacco did not escape the
discerning eye of Doctor Cullen, whose opinions should
ever be viewed with veneration and respect.
In treating of this plant, he observes, that " the infusion
of tobacco when it is carried into the blood vessels, has
sometimes shewn its stimulating powers exerted in the kid-
neys; and very lately we have had it recommended to us as
a powerful diuretic of great service in dropsy‡."
That tobacco promotes the renal discharge, is beyond
a point of controversy. Every practitioner of medicine
who has ever had occasion to administer it, either in the
form of infusion or substance, must have observed its diu-
retic influence on the system.
‡ Cullen's Materia Medica, page 191. 

( 21 )
This is sufficiently exemplified in the work of Doctor
Fowler*, to whom we are greatly indebted for the series of
experiments enumerated by him. He has clearly demon-
strated the influence of tobacco in promoting the urinary
secretion, and has as perspicuously evinced the utility of its
exhibition in violent cases of Ascites, Anasarca, and Dysury.
Without a further disquisition relative to the operation
of tobacco on the human system, I shall proceed with enu-
merating my experiments, and will leave it to the candid
reader to judge how far they may merit his attention ; they
deserve at least the credit of being faithfully related.
EXPERIMENT I.
In order to ascertain the particular operation of tobacco,
with respect to its influence on the pulse, I took three hours
after breakfasting on toast and coffee, forty drops of a strong
decoction of tobacco† in a little water. My pulse beat
seventy strokes in a minute. The following table mani-
fests the stimulating quality of this plant, as I have particu-
larly specified the number of pulsations at the expiration of
every 5th. minute.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 Min.
P. beat 72 75 75 77 80 84 84 81 76 72 70 70 
* See Fowler on Dropsy, page 72, where he observes that out of
one hundred and fifteen cases in which he administered tobacco, in
ninety-three of them it proved diuretic.
+ Two drachms of the dried leaves of tobacco were put into
four ounces of water, and boiled down to two. 

( 22 )
For the first five minutes there was an aromatic warmth
diffused all over my throat, which soon extended itself to my
stomach, and continued thus for the first quarter of an hour.
In fifteen minutes I experienced a little nausea, which was
promoted on the twenty-fifth minute; on the thirtieth mi-
nute my pulse was greatly increased, both in tension and
frequency; a considerable moisture appeared on my fore-
head, and a slight degree of dizziness attended, which con-
tinued until near the fortieth minute.
On the forty-fifth minute, the symptoms abated, and my
pulse was diminished both in fulness and frequency. At
the expiration of the hour, I felt a kind of languor, and my
pulse was reduced to its natural standard.
Soon after every inconvenience disappeared, and I dined
with my usual appetite.
EXPERIMENT 2.
On the same evening, two hours after eating a little
bread and milk, I took forty drops of a strong infusion* of
the dried leaves of tobacco; my pulse beating sixty-eight
strokes in a minute, its natural standard.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Min.
P. beat 70 73 74 76 80 83 83 81
In 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 Min.
P. beat 79 75 71 70 70 68 68 
* Two drachms of the dried leaves of tobacco were infused in
two ounces of water, for 34 hours, and then strained off. 

( 23 )
Immediately after swallowing the draught, I felt an evi-
dent sensation of warmth throughout my throat, which was
soon communicated to my stomach, and continued to in-
crease for fifteen minutes, but gradually diminished at the
expiration of the twentieth minute: I now experienced
some degree of nausea, which continued to increase until
the twenty-fifth minute ; it produced a considerable mois-
ture on my forehead, and in the palms of my hands, but no
vomiting attended. On the thirtieth minute, my pulse be-
came tense, frequent and quick, but the perspiration and
nausea began to subside on the thirty-fifth minute; through-
out the remaining part of the hour, my pulse was diminish-
ed considerably in regard to fulness, and when one hour and
fifteen minutes had elapsed, it resorted to its former state;
I discharged that night an unusual quantity of urine, and
had two copious discharges downwards.
EXPERIMENT 3.
I gave to Peter Vallet, a robust healthy lad of about
nineteen years of age, thirty drops of the tobacco infusion,*
in a little water; he was not accustomed to the use of
tobacco in any form whatever.
His pulse beat seventy, previous to his taking the
draught.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 min.
P. beat 72 76 78 79 80 78 74 73 68 70 70 70 
*Similar to that exhibited in the preceding experiment.

( 24 )
When ten minutes had elapsed, he complained of a
considerable warmth in his stomach. In fifteen minutes
he said that he was a little giddy and somewhat exhilarated.
In twenty he observed that he felt a little sick, and that the
room appeared to him to be turning round, as he expressed
himself; his face was much flushed, and on the thirtieth
minute, he complained of a tremor in his hands. In forty-
five minutes the affection of his head and nausea abated, but
the tremulous motion still existed. At the expiration of
an hour he felt as usual, excepting a slight degree of nausea,
and a kind of langour throughout his frame. In one hour
and a half, he ejected the contents of his stomach, and had
two large evacuations downwards.
Experiment 4. 
About two hours after partaking of a light supper, I
finished, for the first time, the smoking of a segar; my
pulse beat seventy strokes in a minute, and I felt uncom-
monly disposed to sleep. Recollecting the powerful effects
of smoking, but a few minutes, on a former occasion, I
wished now to ascertain its operation on the system, and its
particular influence over the pulse, the results of this ex-
periment were as follow:
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Min.
P. beat 75 77 81 85 90 100 104 102
In 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 Min.
P. beat 93 85 77 70 67 70 70
For the first five minutes, I experienced no evident ef-
fects ; the pulse raised only five. At the tenth and fifteenth
minutes I had frequent eructations, and all inclination for


( 25 )
sleep was totally dispelled. At the twentieth minute my
head felt light, my spirits were much elated*, and my pulse
more full, frequent, and quick.
I continued smoking without cessation, until the twen-
ty-fifth minute, when I perceived a considerable nausea at
my stomach, and an evident moisture on my forehead, ac-
companied with repeated eructations.
I now vomited very profusely, and on the thirtieth
minute my pulse became frequent and low. Every thing
appeared in a circuitous motion, and I was compelled to
seek relief from my pillow for a few moments, until relieved
of this dizziness. On the thirty-fifth minute the vomiting
was repeated, and I took a draught of cold water, which
mitigated every symptom. I felt so much relieved, that I
got up and walked across the room. I experienced at the
fortieth minute a tremulous affection of my hands, and a
giddiness and pain in my head ; so much so, that I was com-
pelled to lie down again: the former of these affections
continued for near two hours, but the latter was somewhat
abated, after being in a recumbent posture for a few mo-
ments. My pulse still continued depressed, frequent, and
quick ; at the sixty-fifth minute my thirst was urgent, my
pulse diminished three, still languid, and head-ach increased.
I then drank a glass of water, and in seventy-five minutes,
my pulse was restored to its natural state, but the pain in
my head still continued.
From the preceding experiments we may infer, that
the primary effects of tobacco, are to accelerate the pulse,
* Doctor Crumpe observed this to be the constant effect of
opium.
D


( 26 )
and elevate the spirits ; and that its secondary operation is
to depress the former, and subdue the latter : for it is to be
uniformly observed in the preceding, as well as many of the
subsequent experiments, that, after the first half hour had
elapsed, the number of pulsations, in a given time, continu-
ed to diminish, until reduced to, and frequently below †, the
natural standard of health. Doctor Cullen ‡, in speaking of
the commotion generated in the system, from the exhibition
of narcotics, observes, that to explain this operation, " it
seems necessary to assign some other cause than the direct
stimulant power of the substance applied ; and it appears
to be that resistance and consequent activity, which the ani-
mal œconomy is suited to oppose to every application that
has a tendency to hurt it. This power is well known in the
schools of physic, under the title of the Vis Conservatrix et
Medicatrix naturæ ; which however difficult to explain,
must, as a general law of the animal œconomy, be admitted
as a matter of fact."
In contemplating the sentiments of Doctor Cullen on
this head, we must pay homage to his great ingenuity, but
at the same time, must not allow our veneration for the abili-
ties of this illustrious physician, to operate as a barrier to
the admission of truth.
We know that the system appears perfectly tranquil
when in the enjoyment of health, and that this depends up-
† This gave origin to the supposed sedative effects of opium. Phy-
sicians were not aware of its instantaneous operation on the system, and
on this account attended solely to the effects produced, after its primary
influence had subsided.
‡ Cullen's Materia Medica, vol. 2. page 151. 

( 27 )
on a just ratio of excitement and excitability, but when
either predominate, disease is invariably the consequence.
As this is admitted, would it not be more just to suppose,
that this disorganization of the human frame, depends upon
the stimuli applied, being disproportioned to the excitability
of the system?
Do we not see similar commotions generated in persons,
on the immediate application of heat, after exposing them-
selves to intense cold, and thereby rendering their systems
extremely excitable ? And may not the same be extended to
narcotics, when disproportioned to the excitability of the
system ?
With respect to the operation of tobacco on the mind,
in producing hilarity, we see it sufficiently exemplified in
many who have recourse to it in a certain degree.*
Most of the ancient authors who have written on this
subject, avail themselves of an opportunity to mention the
exhilarating effects of tobacco; and Sir Hans Sloane in
particular observes, that, " in all places where it has come,
" it has very much bewitched the inhabitants, from the
" more polite Europeans, to the barbaroas Hottentots."
We find also that the like effects of this noxious plant,
are specified in Cortes's conquest of Mexico, where this
* A gentleman of this city informed me, that the smoking of two
or three segars, seldom failed of occasioning an evident degree of a-
lertness for a few moments after; but if he carried the smoking to
a greater extent, it generally produced a nausea, and a giddiness in
his head. 

( 28 )
author affirms, that Montezumo, or the Emperor, drank
several sorts of liquor, richly perfumed with salutiferous
herbs; after his meals, he took a kind of chocolate, and
smoked tobacco perfumed with liquid amber. The juice of
this plant was one of the ingredients with which the priests
intoxicated themselves, whenever they were obliged to de-
liver an oracular answer.
Three or four buffoons generally attended at the table,
for the purpose of diverting the Emperor, with their ludi-
crous talents.*
These were the customs of the Indian tribes, and these
also were the amusements of many civilized nations.—It is
to be much lamented, that even at this present enlightened
period, the manners of the most civilized nations, in this
respect, partake of those of the savage. But to use the words
of a much celebrated and esteemed author, † "it would seem
as if liberty and indolence were the highest pursuits of man;
and these are enjoyed in their greatest perfection by savages,
or in the practice of customs which resemble those of sava-
ges."
We find that its indiscriminate use as a luxury not un-
frequently proves injurious. " Its narcotic fumes," says
Dr. Leake, " will stupify the brain, and deaden the invi-
gorating power of the nerves upon the whole bodily system.
The propensity of persons to the use of this noxious plant,
after being once habituated to the impression of its stimu-
lus, is equally prevalent with that of dram-drinkers to spi-
* Hernando Cortes's conquest of Mexico. page 274.
† Rush. See his medical observations, vol. I, p. 11.

( 29 )
rituous liquors, without which, however pernicious, they
become languid, and debilitated, and are affected with ner-
vous tremor."*
As I shall have occasion to speak more particularly of its
baneful influence in a subsequent part of this work, when
treating of its noxious effects in smoking, snuffing, and
chewing, I shall for the present suspend my opinions on this
head.
Notwithstanding the deleterious effects of tobacco hi-
therto enumerated, its operation as a medicine frequently
proves salutary; this has been clearly demonstrated in many
violent cases of obstinate disease, and as such it is to be held
in the highest estimation. Its influence on the system is
immense. It is beneficial in some diseases from its diuretic
quality; in others as a sudorific, and it proves in proper do-
ses, a gentle emetic, and a lenient purgative: hence the pro-
priety of its use in many other diseases. But more of this
hereafter.
Having now enumerated its respective operations on the
human system, I shall proceed with relating some experi-
ments which were made on living systems, both internally
as well as externally.—
EXPERIMENT 5.
I dropped a small portion of the expressed juice into
my right eye, which immediately imparted an excruciating
pain, attended with a burning diffusible heat, somewhat
analogous to the introduction of an aqueous solution of opi-
* See Leake's practical Essays on diseases of the viscera, p. 72. 


( 30 )
urn :* This sensation continued to increase for the space of
thirty minutes, but gradually diminished after this time;
and totally subsided at the expiration of one hour, leaving
the part extremely sore and disagreeable, and somewhat
blood-shot, for the remaining part of that day.—
EXPERIMENT 6.
After boiling a large quantity of the leaves, in order to
procure an extract, I frequently expressed with my hands the
liquor which the leaves absorbed, which occasioned such a
degree of nausea at my stomach, as almost to induce vomit-
ing:† the sensation continued for some time, but gradually
diminished, as the application was not again renewed.—-
This was succeeded by a flushing of my face, a considera-
ble pain in my head, a throbbing of my temples, a languor
with diminution of appetite, and a disposition to sleep.
In order to satisfy my readers that this effect on my-
self was produced by no particular idiosyncrasy, I will relate
a corroborating experiment communicated to me by my
friend Mr. Dart.
" April the 20th, 1799. About 12 o'clock at noon, I
applied to the internal parts of my thighs, and also the soles
* Crumpe, on opium, page 24.
+ I am credibly informed, that many of the Dutch inhabitants of
New-Jersey, apply the leaves of tobacco, steeped in water, to the
external part of the stomach, and continue the application until a
vomiting is induced. This they frequently practice, in preference to
an internal emetic when under the necessity of puking their chil-
dren. 

( 31 )
of my feet, a large quantity of the dried leaves of tobacco,
well stewed in about a pint of water, previously washing
the part with warm vinegar, so as to open the pores and pro-
mote absorption.—In about two hours after the application
was made, I felt some degree of lassitude, accompanied with
a dizziness and head-ach, which were evidently increased on
the third hour ; when it operated as a gentle cathartic.
At 4 o'clock, a nausea at my stomach was very percep-
tible, so much so, that I removed the application for fear of
vomiting,* which generally affects me materially, and,
therefore, wished to avoid it. I made several efforts to eject 
the contents of my stomach, but without effect. In half an
hour after, this affection began to subside, and I felt much
relieved, but still some degree of head-ach continued, to-
gether with a disagreeable languor."
EXPERIMENT 7.
I made a strong decoction of the dried leaves of tobac-
co, and gave twenty drops of it to a mouse. In the short
space of ten minutes it discovered strong marks of an almost
insupportable pain, attended with tremor and convulsions,
quickly succeeding each other; at the expiration of thirty
minutes, with a few violent efforts, it suddenly expired.
EXPERIMENT 8.
I injected by means of an ivory syringe, a small por-
tion of the above mentioned decoction, into the rectum of
* Professor Barton informed me, that he was called to a man, who
had taken a large dose of opium ; he gave an emetic, but being de-
sirous of keeping up vomiting, he applied tobacco leaves, steeped in
vinegar, to the stomach, which had the desired effect. 

( 32 )
another mouse, which evidently exhibited all the symptoms
of the former, and equally as vehement in degree, for the
little animal fell a victim to this exhibition, in the course of
twenty minutes.
Experiment 9.
After perforating the side of a mouse, I injected a small
quantity of the strong decoction of tobacco, taking particu-
lar care to avoid the introduction of air, by applying the
mouth of the syringe instantaneously to the aperture. In ten
minutes it discovered symptoms of a violent affection: the
respiration became considerably increased, which was quick-
ly succeeded by strong convulsions; in fifteen minutes, a
paralytic affection, agitated the whole frame, and in twenty,
a violent corrugation of the body, closed the scene.
CHAPTER III.
Observations on the noxious effect of tobacco on the human
species, when used in the form of smoking, snuffing, and
chewing.
THE use of tobacco as an article of luxury, in all
its noxious forms, comes now to be considered; but before
entering into the particulars of each, I must beg leave to
offer a few preliminary observations. It is generally admit-
ted that " man is an imitative animal;" to adopt, there-
fore, from the example of others, what is pleasurable to 

( 33 )
our feelings, or subordinate to use, should not be deemed
strange: but that a rank and noxious weed, at first loathsome
to the sense of taste, as well as prejudicial to the constitu-
tion, should, by habit become desirable, is a circumstance
the most extraordinary, affording one striking instance, a-
mong many, " of the folly and infatuation of the human
mind, and the force, and prevalence of custom opposed to
sense and nature."
Without entering further into an enquiry on this head,
I shall at once commence with some few remarks on to-
bacco, when used in the form of smoking.
Persons who habituate themselves to the immoderate
use of this plant, sooner or later, experience its noxious
powers, by the many disagreeable emotions excited by its
influence over the system.
Smoking in particular, by its stimulating effects on
the mucous follicles and sallavary glands, abstracts profuse-
ly their contents, and excites immoderate expectoration:
Hence its influence in inducing dyspepsia; for by abstract-
ing that liquid,* so essentially requisite for the purpose of
digestion, it seems just to suppose, that here it must inevita-
bly prove the direct instrument of so malicious a disease. It
is alledged by Dr. Cullen in his materia medica,+ that this
plant evidently possesses a narcotic power, and through this
* Rush's M. S. Lectures. " That the saliva is requisite for di-
gestion, I infer, from its once being customary in Spain to make use
of an aromatic gum to perfume the breath ; this had a very perni-
cious effect, as it diffused dyspepsia throughout that place."
+ Cullen's Materia Medica, p. 189.
E 


( 34 )
means, weakens the tone of the stomach in such a manner as
to preclude the performance of its respective functions.
From the preceding experiments, it has been ascer-
tained, that nicotiana possesses strong stimulant qualities,
and therefore, Dr. Cullen's narcotic power, is to be explain-
ed by the stimuly being carried too far, and thereby induc-
ing indirect debility. To corroborate this position, I will
relate the following Angular fact, which not long since
came under my own inspection.
A young gentleman, after being somewhat intoxicated
by drinking of wine, undertook for the first time, the
smoking of a segar; after having inhaled it as long as he
could with safety to his mouth, he observed that it was cus-
tomary for gentlemen to fling away the remaining part of
the segar; but, for his part, he thought it extremely incon-
sistent, and highly improper, and, as he expressed himself,
to shew his œconomy, would put it to a better use, by chew-
ing, rather than part with so inestimable a treasure: but
unfortunately for the poor youth, he had not gratified him-
self long in the enjoyment of his luscious morsel, before he
fell prostrate on his back, to the great astonishment of all
the surrounding company, until they recognized the cause |
of so unexpected a transition. He was conveyed to an adja-
cent room, where he remained apparently lifeless for a con-
siderable space of time, and would probably have fallen a
martyr to his folly and imprudence, had not medical aid
been near at hand: The attendant physician accurately in-
spected his case, and very properly abstracted twelve or four-
teen ounces of blood from his arm;* when a vomiting en-
* Doctor Allston, of South-Carolina, informed me, that he was
called to a lady, who had intentionally taken a dose of laudanum,
 A 


( 35 )
sued, attended with a profuse diaphoreis, which happily
dissipated every doubt of his recovery, and soon restored the
youth to his former state of salubrity.
We may infer from this fact, the infinite power of ni-
cotiana, when used by those who have never been accus-
tomed to its noxious effects.
Smoking has been alledged by some authors to have
oftentimes proved advantageous in dispelling contagion of
almost every description; but others have opposed this asser-
tion, with such valid arguments, and have produced such
substantial facts in support of their opinions, that it is now
almost universally believed, that tobacco possesses no such
virtue.
I shall now proceed with some few remarks on snuf-
fing, another form in which the deleterious effects of Nico-
tiana are evidently depicted.
Snuffing, like that of smoking, may, by many repeti-
tions, be rendered perfectly simple and harmless with re-
spect to its nauseating powers at first, so that its peculiarities
may at length be totally dissipated : tho' even this does not
evade the force of its action over those who practice its use in
certain quantities, for we find that those very persons accus-
tomed to the taking of snuff, by exceeding the portion li-
mited, are attacked with every disagreeable symptom,
for the purpose of destroying life. He hastened to her assistance, and
immediately administered a vomit, but without producing the desired
effect. The dose was repeated and with the same result. He then
abstracted a few ounces of blood, and vomiting immediately ensued,
which restored the woman to health. 

( 36 )
which they so evidently experienced on the first employ-
ment of it.
"On this subject" says Dr. Cullen, " it is to be re-
marked that the power of habit is often unequal; fo that
persons accustomed to the use of tobacco, a lesser quantity,
than what they had been accustomed to, will often have
stronger effects than had before commonly appeared. I
knew a lady who had been for more than twenty years ac-
customed to take snuff, and that at every time of day; but
she came at length to observe, that snuffing a good deal be-
fore dinner, took away her appetite: and she came at length
to find, that a single pinch, taken any time before dinner,
took away almost entirely her appetite for that meal. When
however, she abstained entirely from snuff before dinner
her appetite continued as usual; and after dinner, for the
rest of the day, she took snuff pretty freely, without any
inconvenience*."
This is further corroborated by an assertion of Doctor
Rush's+. "I once attended a gentleman," says the Doctor,
" who had been for some time troubled with pains in his
stomach, attended with a diminution of appetite, and some
degree of emaciation. I observed that he frequently prac-
tised the taking of snuff, to which I attributed his disease,
and advised him to suspend the use of it. He accordingly
did so, and soon began to mend very fast. I was informed
by him, a few weeks after, that he had gained thirty weight
in flesh, and was at that period, in the enjoyment of per-
fect health."
* Cullen's Materia Medica, page 187.
+ Professor Rum's M. S. Lectures. 


( 37 )
It greatly injures the organs of smelling, as the infini-
ty of nerves, which are diffused throughout the mucous
membrane of the nose, on which depends its sensibility, and
the acuteness of our smelling, become considerably impair-
ed by the acrimony of snuff. " The use of this subtile
powder, is further rendered odious by discolouring the skin
contiguous to the nose, and will taint the sweetest breath
with the rank odour of a tobacco-cask. For this reason
the ladies of fashion in France, seldom take snuff till they
are married ; a very high compliment no doubt to their
husbands."
" The only advantage," says Dr. Leake*, " of tak-
ing snuff, is that of freezing, which, in sluggish, phlegmatic
habits, will give universal concussion to the body, and pro-
mote a more free circulation of the blood; but of this
benefit, snuff-takers are deprived, from being familiar with
its use."
Chewing, the most odious form in which nicotiana
can possibly be used, next engages our attention.
The constant chewing of tobacco impairs the appe-
tite, in a similar manner to smoking, from a profuse dis-
charge of saliva by expectoration+, so necessary for the
preservation of the body, particularly in persons of a thin
habit.
* Leake on the viscera, page 69.
‡ Dr. Cullen observes that " this practice is also the occasion
of the greatest waste of saliva ; and the effects of this in weaken-
ing digestion, and perhaps from thence especially, its noted effect of
producing emaciation may appear. Cullen's Materia Medica,
page 190. 

( 38 )
The nauseous taste of the plant being more imme-
diately abstracled by this process, than either of the others
hitherto mentioned, precludes its being carried so far by
those who have recourse to it, without considerable danger
attending such a procedure. Persons, therefore, who are
desirous of effecting their ends in this polite accomplishment,
are compelled to be extremely particular in regard to the
quantity, and time of using it, for if continued too long
with a novice in this art, we find evident marks of its oc-
casioning extreme anxiety, vertigoes, stupors, and disorders
of the senses. Notwithstanding the greatest caution of
tobacco-chewers, a small portion of the saliva, tinctured
with this plant, will frequently insinuate itself into the sto-
mach, and thereby impair the functions of that viscus.
As longevity depends on a healthy state of this organ,
being one of the most important throughout the animal
œconomy, the habits of those who addict themselves to this
pernicious custom become vitiated, and consequently, the
number of their days are considerably shortened. But, as
the use of tobacco in this form, most generally prevails
among the vulgar, upon whom friendly admonitions are
too frequently thrown away, I shall not dwell long on the
subject; well knowing the great difficulty of eradicating
prejudice from ignorant minds, though a circumstance much
to be regretted.
CHAPTER IV.
Of the prejudicial effects of the use of Tobacco on the moral
faculty.
The general demand for tobacco, as an article of luxu-
ry, is owing, I am convinced, to a servile attachment for

( 39 )
imitation. Many customs equally odious, have of late be-
come fashionable from the same cause, and it is to be regret-
ted, that men whose exalted situations in life ought to have
rendered them superior to such weaknesses, have been the
principle propagators of these pernicious practices. The ex-
ample of such characters is, unfortunately, esteemed by per-
sons in the more subordinate walks of life, as the standard
of human perfection ; hence when vicious customs are
brought into use by men of this description, the impression
which is made on illiterate minds is more durable, and the
prospect of eradicating them more gloomy.
This plant was first introduced into England by Sir
Walter Raleigh, about the year 1585; this nobleman used
it in the form of segar, and hence the despicable habit of
smoking was speedily contracted by the inhabitants of that
kingdom.
I presume, our forefathers, must have borrowed this cus-
tom from the aborigines of America, as we are informed,
these Savages used it long before it was introduced into the
civilized world.
Our ancestors then, have entailed one of the most
odious vices on their sons and daughters ; for sorry am I to
observe, that this plant is used by females, as well as males.
Their delicate habits, it was to have been hoped, would
have prevented them from the luxurious use of such a
nauseous weed, but fatal experience has taught us, that our
expectations were merely the results of benevolence ; with
exalted notions of female delicacy, blended with a natural
affection for the sex, we fondly anticipated, that they would 

( 40 )
preserve themselves aloof from such a detestable custom,
and therefore expected that a segar would never find ad-
mittance within their ruby lips.
How far these expectations have been realised, expe-
rience will declare.
The use of this plant is not solely confined to those la-
dies, who have passed the meridian of life, for in such a case
the evil would not be so great, but the young and the bloom-
ing also delight in inhaling the fumes of tobacco; from
this source we may expect much mischief, for as habit will
render this weed as essential to their happiness, as their daily
food ; so also we will naturally see the rising generation,
fondly allured to a similar attachment.
It is granted that smoking, or chewing, universally
produce thirst, therefore a desire for strong drink is excited;
and as these, when taken between meals, are generally the
forerunners of intemperance and drunkenness, so also is
vice universally the consequence. This is proved beyond
the possibility of doubt, by Dr. Rush* in his observations
on the use of tobacco ; he observes its influence in pro-
moting intemperance, in the following words —"One of
the greatest sots," says the Doctor, " I ever knew, acquir-
ed a love for ardent spirits, by swallowing cuds of tobacco,
which he did, to escape detection in the use of it, for he had
contracted the habit of chewing, contrary to the advice and
commands of his father. He died of a dropsy under my
care in the year 1780."
* Rush's Essays, page 270. 

( 41 )
From this fact we see, in the most undisguised manner,
the pernicious effects of this weed, not only on the morals,
but on the health, and ought we not then to endeavour to
wean ourselves from the use of a plant, which evidently im-
pairs our ability for living as rational beings, and insures
for us an early grave ?
We daily witness the horrid effects of inebriety, in
our intercourse with the world ; a train of evils are pro-
duced, which totally disqualify the slaves of it from living
in the polished walks of society; they become objects of
pity, and contempt, by men of genius and worth, and be-
ing excluded from the society of such, they fly to the haunts
of vice, and frequently end their days, in a tavern or a
brothel.
Idleness is also generated by the use of tobacco, and
though it cannot be considered so immediately destructive
to health and moral rectitude, as the habit of drunkenness,
yet the effects are equally extensive, though flower in their
operation. The social duties of life are neglected, and
every thing valuable and interesting is totally disregarded.
Our country, our connections, and our friends become ob-
jects of but little regard, and finally we attain to such per-
fection in indolence, that even the necessary duties of life,
which only extend to ourselves, are considered as burthen-
some, and at last totally neglected.
These are generally the effects of a servile fondness
for tobacco ; and I could enumerate many more, if my
time would admit, which are equally disgusting their na-
ture; however, as custom has rendered this plant so essen-
F 

( 42 )
tial to the happiness of many of our fellow citizens, it can-
not be expected that these, or any other remarks, would
have a tendency to discourage the use.
CHAPTER V.
Of the analysis of tobacco, and the operation of its consituent
parts on living systems.
EXPERIMENT 10.
I boiled two pounds of the dried leaves, in six quarts
of water, down to four ; the liquor was then strained, and
carefully evaporated, over a gentle fire, to the consistence
of an extract, which weighed four ounces.
EXPERIMENT 11.
To two ounces of the above extract, I added four
ounces of pure alcohol*, and triturated them together, for
some time in a mortar ; after which I poured off the men-
struum, and by the affusion of distilled water, precipitated
the resin, from the alcohol ; this I evaporated with a gentle
heat, and then weighed the residuum, which proved to be
three drachms of pure resin.
EXPERIMENT 12.
Half a pound of the dried leaves of tobacco, put into
a crucible, heated red hot, and calcined in the open air
* As the spirits of wine is frequently adulterated by the apo-
thecaries, I was at the trouble of distilling it myself, so as to procure
it as concentrated as possible.

( 43 )
yielded an ounce and an half of white ashes; to this I added
boiling water several times, and filtered the whole. The
residuum, when dried, weighed one ounce ; so that the
water took up half an ounce of the vegetable alkali, as is
sufficiently exemplified in the following experiments.
EXPERIMENT 13.
In order to ascertain whether the substance taken up
by the water, in the preceding experiment, was of the na-
ture of a vegetable alkali, I submitted it to the following
tests.
1st. To a small portion of this mixture, I added an
aqueous solution of Corrosive sublimate, which was instant-
ly precipitated of a brick-dust colour.
2d. I added a few drachms of this filtered mixture, to
a solution of the sulphate of iron*, which instantly render-
ed it of a black turbid colour, somewhat tinged with a
darkish green.
4th. It precipitated the sulphate of copper † of a
greenish hue.
5th. A piece of paper, stained yellow with turmerick,
was stained of a brownish hue.
6. Litmus paper was changed, to its pristine blue
colour, after being turned red by the nitric acid.
7. A piece of paper, stained red by the brasil wood
was changed from its original colour, to a beautiful purple.
* Green Vitriol, or Copperas.
† Roman, or Blue Vitriol. 

( 44 )
All the above tests, were made individually with an
aqueous solution of pot-ash, and precisely with the same re-
sult, which incontestibly confirms the analogy of the two.
EXPERIMENT 14.
The water which was poured on the ashes of the to-
bacco, was laid aside to evaporate spontaneously, when it
yielded crystals of the carbonate of pot-ash, and common
salt.
EXPERIMENT 15.
To the substance which remained after the affusion of
hot water, weighing one ounce, I added half an ounce of
sulphuric acid, diluted with water, and suffered the mixture
to boil for a few minutes, over a gentle fire; I then poured
it off, and when filtered very clear, it was placed in a shal-
low vessel, to evaporate; in a few days, crystals of the sul-
phate of alumine, were obtained. The residuum consisted
of silicious earth, and weighed six drachms.
EXPERIMENT 16.
To half an ounce of the extract, I added four ounces
of concentrated nitric acid, which were boiled together over
a gentle fire. A large quantity of nitrous gas escaped, but
as soon as the whole was evolved, the mixture was taken
off, and it yielded crystals of the oxalic acid.
EXPERIMENT 17.
Half a pound of the dried leaves were calcined in a red 

( 45 )
hot crucible, which emitted a considerable vapor. I co-
vered the vessel close, and suffered the smoke to pass through
a tube, which was condensed in a receiver: by this process,
I procured several ounces of the distilled water, and near
half an ounce of an empyreumatic oil, which trickled down
the sides of the vessel, and floated on the surface of the wa-
ter.
In order to ascertain the difference in strength between
the resin and the gum, I made the following experiments.
EXPERIMENT 18.
To Thomas Howel, aged fifty, whose pulse beat 66
strokes in a minute, I administered two grains of the resin,
obtained by the means particularized in experiment eleventh,
suspended in a little water, about two hours after he had
breakfasted on bread and chocolate. The result of this ex-
periment was as follows.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 Min.
P. beat 66 66 69 69 70 71 75 72 71 70 66 66
He complained of considerable nausea at his stomach,
but no vomiting. He shortly after had a passage, and void-
ed a copious flow of urine.
EXPERIMENT 19.
To John Wheelder, a man of the same temperament,
I gave four grains of the extract, deprived of its resin. His
pulse beat 68 strokes in a minute, and the following was
the result. 

( 46 )
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 Min.
P. beat 70 73 74 75 77 78 78 76 73 70 70 68
In fifteen minutes, he complained of a nausea; in
25, the nausea increased, attended with a little head-ach.
In 30 minutes he perspired, and felt somewhat giddy. About
the fortieth minute, he had a copious evacuation down-
wards, which relieved him considerably. At the end of the
hour, he felt much better, though still some nausea at his
stomach, which wore off in the course of two or three hours.
I was favoured with the following interesting experi-
ment, by my ingenious friend Mr. Lee, aged about twen-
ty, an apothecary to the Philadelphia Hospital.
EXPERIMENT 20.
At 9 o'clock, P. M. three hours after drinking some
tea, and eating bread, I took two grains of the resin, that
you gave me, made up into a soft pill, with a small portion
of flour, and drank water after it, so that there was no taste
perceived. From several previous examinations, my pulse
beat sixty-eight strokes in a minute, and the alterations pro-
duced in it, are marked, in the following table, viz.
In 5 10 15 30 40 45 55 50 65 70 75 Min.
P. beat 73 78 90 94 90 87 90 89 85 80 78
In 80 85 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 min. 
P.B. 76 74 77 77 77 75 74 74 73 67 66
" In five minutes I felt a good deal of pain at my sto- 

( 47 )
mach, which continued constant for two hours. This con-
tinuation of the pain, induced me to carry on the experi-
ment, as far as I did, to see more particularly the result of
its operation. In eight minutes, I began to perspire, and in
fifteen and eighteen minutes, the perspiration increased most
profusely, particularly on my upper extremities, and fore-
head. At ten minutes, I felt giddy, and soon became ver-
tiginous, with an evident tremor throughout my frame.
These effects went off at thirty five minutes. I vomited
four times, viz. at the 20th, 35th, 50th and 90th minutes.
This vomiting was as violent, as I have ever experienc-
ed from tartar emetic. During the whole time I belched a
great deal. After these affections subsided, I voided urine,
and felt disposed for a passage downwards, but being late at
night, I did not indulge myself.
"This last affection I attributed solely to the purga-
tive quality of the medicine, as I had a passage this forenoon,
which generally attends me in the four and twenty hours,
when in a healthy state; but seldom more, and sometimes, I
pass the whole day without such an evacuation.
" N. B. I took particular care not to examine my
pulse after vomiting, until the expiration of five minutes;
and always before noting it, I remained still in one posture,
at least two minutes, in order that it might not be increas-
ed by exertions of any kind."
Mr. Lee informed me, that he does not use tobacco in
any form whatever, to which may be attributed, the vio-
lence of the symptoms, as well as great increase of pulse,
for we find the same quantity did not produce such violent
affections in Thomas Howel, who occasionally indulged
himself in the taking of a little.

( 48 )
EXPERIMENT 21.
I gave three drops of the distilled water,* as procured
in the 17th experiment, to Thomas Howel, on whom the
18th experiment was made. His pulse beat 68 strokes in a
minute, and it affected him in the following manner.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 min
P. beat 69 71 71 73 75 78 76 76 74 71 70 67
In fifteen minutes, he said that his stomach felt a little
warm, as if he had drank brandy and water. At the 25th
minute a nausea occurred. In thirty-five minutes, still
some sickness at his stomach, but not so perceptible as be-
fore. In 55 and 60 minutes, he experienced no further in-
convenience from the dose.
EXPERIMENT 22
To ascertain more particularly the operation of the
distilled water, I took three drops in a little cold tea, on an
empty stomach, my pulse beating 68 strokes in a minute,
and the following was the effect.
In 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 Min
P. beat 70 70 72 73 77 80 80 
In 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 Min
P. beat 80 80 76 72 66 66 68 68 
* This water was extremely acrid, and somewhat impregnated
with the oil. 

( 49 )
In ten minutes, I felt a warmth throughout my throat
and stomach ; in twenty minutes my head became a little
confused, and the nausea increased. At the thirtieth, I
made several efforts to eject the contents of my stomach, but
without effect, and in forty minutes this disposition for vo-
miting subsided. There was a considerable moisture on my
forehead, until the forty-fifth minute, but disappeared on
the sixtieth. In an hour and fifteen minutes, every symptom
totally vanished, and I remained perfectly composed for the
remainder of the evening.
EXPERIMENT 23.
Five grains of the extract were dissolved in water, and
given to a cat, which induced vomiting in the course of five
minutes ; this continued for near half an hour, with inter-
vals of fix or eight minutes. After this time the vomiting
subsided, and the animal perfectly recovered.
EXPERIMENT 24.
Five grains of the extract were dissolved in one ounce
of water, and injected into the rectum of a small dog: in
three minutes it began to be extremely restless; in five it
ran about the room, and apparently in great distress; it con-
tinued thus for seven or eight minutes, when a copious eva-
cuation took place, which relieved it considerably; the ani-
mal was divested of every indication of pain in the space of
thirty minutes.
EXPERIMENT 25.
I injected ten grains of the extract dissolved in half an
ounce of water, into the rectum of a full grown cat, which 
G

( 50 )
produced slight convulsions in the abdominal muscles, and
a great degree of disquietude for the space of thirty minutes;
a copious evacuation succeeded these symptoms, which lessen-
ed them considerably; at the expiration of an hour, they
were evidently diminished, and, to every appearance, totally
subsided in the course of two hours and a half.
EXPERIMENT 26.
Three hours after performing the above experiment, I
administered to the same cat, ten grains of the resin suspend-
ed in water, which produced violent contortions of the abdo-
men, in the short space of ten minutes: free and repeated
discharges were the result of this exhibition; and the poor
animal discovered by its mewing, and grimaces, such ex-
quisite torture, that at the 20th minute, I injected the like
quantity into its mouth, in order to put an end to its exis-
tence. In less than thirty minutes, these affections were
greatly increased, and a violent vomiting ensued, attended
with great commotions of the stomach, and repeated dis-
charges of its contents. In forty minutes the convulsions of
the abdominal muscles, were considerably augmented, and
an incessant tremor pervaded the whole frame. In this de-
plorable situation it continued for some time, when it sprung
up, and hobbled across the room. In an hour and ten mi-
nutes, it foamed considerably at the mouth; the respiration
became quick and extremely laborious, and it assumed, in
every respect, the appearance of a rabid animal; the spas-
modic contractions of the stomach and abdomen were great-
ly promoted, and the poor animal appeared for a time, as if
it would eject the very stomach itself.* In this dreadful
state it remained until near the 2d hour, when death as a
benign attendant closed the lamentable scene.
 * Similar symptoms took place from the exhibition of two drachms 

( 51 )
EXPERIMENT 27.
I gave to a large dog, thirty grains of the extract,
consisting of the gum and resin, which produced no sensi-
ble effects for the first hour; in an hour and fifteen mi-
nutes, he discovered some commotion in the stomach, by
the saliva which run from the mouth, and also by several
convulsions of the body, as if inclined for vomiting. No-
thing was ejected from the stomach, but the dog had co-
pious and repeated discharges through the medium of the
rectum, for several hours after. The ensuing day he had
perfectly recovered, and sustained no apparent inconveni-
ence from his bolus.
EXPERIMENT 28.
Fifteen grains of the resin were given to a dog of the
same strength, which caused an inclination to vomit in the
of camphor, and as the analogy is so great, I will give the extract
from the London medical observations, as related by Mr. Hoffman.
" I gave," says Mr. Hoffman, " to a large grey hound, two drachms
of camphor, in a ball of hogs lard. Three quarters of an hour after,
the dog began to look wild and furious, lolled out his tongue, work-
ed in his flanks, as if excessively fatigued. I found the nervous parts
so violently contrasted, their rigidity so great, and the dog when at-
tempting to walk, instead of advancing, recoiled backwards, drag-
ging his forelegs after him, as if he dreaded by going forwards, to fall
down a precipice. He then fell into convulsions. After a little time
he got up, began to walk, striking his head against any thing, that
happened in his way ; tumbling and tottering as if intoxicated.
When I offered him some water to drink, notwithstanding he appear-
ed very thirsty, he refused it. The symptoms resembled the hydropho-
bia. In about twenty-four hours every appearance of madness, gra-
dually subsided, and left the dog in a quite weak and feeble condi-
tion ; but afterwards he recovered gradually. 

( 52 )
space of half an hour. In three quarters, he threw up the
contents of his stomach, and appeared for some time in
great anxiety. In an hour, he had a large evacuation from
his bowels; and the medicine operated various times, both
as an emetic and cathartic.
For the succeeding part of the day, he appeared as usu-
al, and no further inconvenience attended this exhibition.
EXPERIMENT 29.
Thirty drops of the distilled water, as procured in ex-
periment 17th, was given to a cat, which occasioned con-
vulsions in five minutes. In ten it sprung about, and con-
torted its body in a variety of forms; the convulsions, in
twelve minutes were so much augmented, that it was af-
fecting to behold the torture of the animal, and in this ex-
quisite pain it suddenly expired.
EXPERIMENT 30.
I applied three drops of the oil of tobacco to the tongue
of a cat, which almost instantaneously produced convul-
sions, and in six or eight minutes, its breathing was ster-
torous, accompanied with tremors, and considerable pain.*
It recovered considerably in the course of an hour, and in
about an hour and an half, seemed to enjoy its pristine com-
posure.
EXPERIMENT 31.
After laying bare several muscles of the leg of a pige-
* This is taken notice of in the new Royal Encyclopedia, under
the head of Nicotiana. 

( 53 )
on,* I applied two drops of the oil of tobacco, which al-
most instantaneously occasioned a spasmodic affection, and
such a degree of rigidity in the whole of the extremity, as
to induce an inability for motion; a quick respiration ac-
companied the whole, attended with a violent palpitation
of the heart, and a considerable tremor, throughout the ex-
tremity.
These symptoms continued for twenty minutes, but
after the expiration of half an hour, gradually diminished
and totally subsided in the course of an hour. In attempting
to catch it, it walked across the room, but with some dif-
ficulty. In an hour and fifteen minutes, it ejected † the con-
tents of its stomach, which relieved it considerably, and oc-
casioned its assuming a more lively aspect.
No disagreeable consequences ensued, and it perfectly
recovered these affections.
EXPERIMENT 32.
The muscles of the lower extremity of a frog, were
laid bare, and four drops of the oil of tobacco applied to them,
which occasioned, in five minutes a paralysis of the limb,
* I am conscious of the apparent inhumanity of many of the ex-
periments here inserted ; but when we reflect on the necessity which
frequently occurs of our resorting to them in particular enquiries, re-
lative to the various operations of medicines, I flatter myself that I
shall be deemed sufficently excusable for practising them as often
as I have done.
† The Indians poison their arrows, with the oil of tobacco, which, in-
fused into a fresh wound, occasions sickness, and vomiting, or con-
vulsions and death. 


( 54 )
and small tremulous motions throughout the whole body:
the limb remained perfeclty inactive; the ischiatic nerve
was then pricked, in order to ascertain, whether the part
was deprived of its contractile power, but no visible effect 
was produced: upon touching the ischiatic nerve of the
other extremity, a violent contraction of the leg instantane-
ously took place.
This experiment was repeated divers times, and with
the same results.
EXEPRIMENT 33.
An opening was made in the teguments on the back
part of the neck of a pigeon, and raised without injuring the
fleshy part of it. Four drops of the oil of tobacco were then
introduced. In five minutes, it indicated some degree of
pain, by a flapping of its wings, and on the seventh minute,
it was attacked with a tremor, when its feet became rigidly
extended, and on the tenth, it instantly expired.
EXPERIMENT 34.
The breast of a pigeon was punctured, and the orifice
filled up with several drops of the oil of tobacco. In five
minutes the legs were seized with an inability for motion.
The breast was now its only support, and it continued in
this situation, for forty minutes. It indicated great pain
the whole of this time, and was surprisingly convulsed. It
made several efforts to vomit, but its stomach being empty
from a long confinement, nothing was ejected. At the ex-
piration of an hour, it arose, and walked across the room. 

( 55 )
The pigeon sustained no further injury, and was per-
fectly lively, two days after.
Observations on the Experiments.
AS I have already taken notice of the particular
operation of tobacco, on the human system, in a preceding
part of this work, I shall avoid prolixity by referring to
those pages,* where an accurate definition has already been
offered; the inferences of which are drawn from several of
the preceding experiments. I shall, therefore, without
further comment pass them over, and proceed to an exami-
nation of the fifth experiment, where we have an opportu-
nity of observing the stimulating effects of tobacco, when
applied externally to an irritable surface.
In reviewing the sixth experiment, we find that Ni-
cotiana proves a gentle emetic, when externally applied to
the body, which fact is also corroborated, by an experi-
ment of my friend Mr. Dart's, already taken notice of. In
cases where internal emetics may be objected to, this appli-
cation may be adopted with little or no inconvenience, par-
ticularly as its operation is of a very lenient nature.
In regard to the experiments made on the mice, it is to
be observed, that death was almost an immediate attendant
on each. I dissected several of these animals after the ex-
tinction of life, in order to see if I could trace any marks
* Pages 32 and 33. 

( 56 )
of inflammation. In two or three that I opened, no visible
effects were produced ; in others, the minute blood vessels
throughout the intestines, were somewhat florid, but perhaps
this might have proceeded from some other cause. Here it
may be presumed, that the excessive stimulating quality of
this plant, was disproportioned to the excitability of their
systems, and consequently death was induced, before any in-
flammatory type could possibly have taken place.*
With respect to the constituent parts of tobacco, we
find, agreeable to the eleventh experiment, that it possesses
an extract consisting of a gum and resin, two ounces of
which afforded three drachms of pure resin. From the se-
veral experiments that I have made, the most active proper-
ty of this plant consists in the resinous portion.
The ashes obtained from the twelfth experiment, yield-
ed a large portion of vegetable alkali, as is sufficiently con-
firmed from the tests enumerated. The fourteenth expe-
riment afforded crystals of the carbonate of pot-ash and
common salt; from the fifteenth was obtained the sulphate
of alumine.
Crystals of the oxalic acid, were procured from the
sixteenth experiment. The seventeenth afforded a water ex-
tremely pungent when applied to the tongue, and the oil
which floated on its surface was very acrid, when in contact
with a denuded surface of the body. We may perceive from
* Dr. Rush remarks that the same frequently occurred, with per-
sons who died suddenly of the yellow fever. " It is owing," says
this acute physiologist, "to a sudden prostration of the system, before the
existence of morbid action, without which no inflammation can take
place." 

( 57 )
the results of the 18th and 19th experiments, the difference
existing between the gum and resin, for both of the men on
whom these experiments were performed, were of the same
temperament, and occasionally practised the chewing of to-
bacco. From the twentieth experiment, which was per-
formed by Mr. Lee, we see clearly manifested the immense
power of the resinous portion of the extract, and its virtue
as a medicine, occasioning nausea, a profuse perspiration,and
at length vomiting.
Tobacco appears to be unequivocally a powerful dia-
phoretic, and as such it has proved efficacious in a variety
of diseases. It is to be regretted that its exhibition is not
oftener repeated ; for there are testimonies of its salutary in-
fluence in many obstinate fevers, which predominated over
the most powerful remedies which are esteemed valuable
for exciting a speedy and profuse perspiration.
The twenty-first and twenty second experiments,
evince the immense power which the distilled water posses-
ses : physicians formerly made use of it with advantage,and
I entertain not the smallest doubt, but that, with a proper
dilution, it may now be administered with much efficacy.
The twenty-third, twenty-fourth, and twenty-fifth ex-
periments, clearly demonstrate the emetic and purgative
qualities of this plant; and the twenty-sixth, twenty-se-
venth, and twenty-eighth, again elucidate the difference ex-
isting between the gum and resin; for, agreeable to these ex-
periments, we find that one half of the latter, operated more
powerfully than twice the quantity of the former.
The immense acrimony of the distilled water, is evi-
H 


( 58 )
dently depicted in the twenty-ninth experiment, for the
small quantity of thirty drops produced convulsions and
death in a cat, in the short space of twelve minutes. The
thirtieth, and the succeeding experiments sufficiently evince
the power with which the oil of tobacco is endued, occa-
sioning a universal tremor throughout the whole frame, and
a paralysis of the parts to which it was applied.
An account of its medical virtues, in eradicating certain
diseases.
THE medical powers of tobacco were generally known
among physicians, at an early period, who ascribed many
virtues to it in certain obstinate diseases. With respect to
its operation as a general evacuant, I may, from my expe-
riments, and the corroborating assertions of various authors,
pronounce this medicine a valuable acquisition to the mate-
ria medica; and that its evident operation on the system, is
that of a sudorific, an emetic, a cathartic, and a diuretic. Hence
the propriety of its use, in a variety of diseases.
In cases of ascites and other dropsical affections, it ap-
pears to be an invaluable remedy.
As a diuretic, I would venture to assert, that it is ex-
celled by few, if any of our indigenous plants. The digi-
talis purpurea,* which grows luxuriantly in South-Caroli-
* Purple Fox-glove. 


( 59 )
na, has been much celebrated for its diuretic quality, by
medical characters ; but I have seen instances where the to-
bacco has eradicated several violent cases of ascites, where
this had proved but of little effect. " Diuretics," says a
much celebrated character,† " have so long been employed
with benefit in the treatment of dropsies, that it becomes a
matter of consequence, to increase the number of the medi-
cines of this class, and to learn how to exhibit, with more
advantage, those which are already known." In how great
estimation then should we hold that plant, which is evident-
ly endowed with a power of evacuating the accumulated
water by a natural discharge, for the relief of ascites and
other dropsical affections, in lieu of resorting to a surgical
operation, which is painful and disagreeable to the afflicted
patient; that nicotiana possesses this quality, no one will
pretend to deny.
Every practitioner of medicine, who has attentively
perused the publication of the ingenious Doctor Fowler,
on the effects of Tobacco, with respect to its diuretic
quality, must candidly acknowledge its salutary effects,
in cases of dropsy and dysury. The uniform result atten-
dant on his experiments, together with the many proofs of
its virtues which have come under my cognizance, clearly
evince the indefinite worth of this plant, and the necessity
of administering it in those cases of dropsy, which seem to
triumph over medicines of less efficacy, although held in the
greatest repute.
To illustrate this still further, I have been informed
by several persons of unquestionable veracity, that a variety
† See professor Barton's essay towards a materia medica of the United
States. page 34.

( 6o )
of the most violent cases of dropsy, many of which had
baffled the skill of the most eminent physicians, were per-
fecty eradicated by an old negro fellow. His remedy
was, for a time, unknown to any but himself, until, by
some accidental occurrence, it was discovered to be a simple
decoction of tobacco, disguised with some odoriferous
herb. As an additional proof of the efficacy of this plant
in the various species of dropsy, I shall take the liberty of
introducing the opinion of Dr. Cullen, when considering
the effects of vomiting, in promoting absorption, and there-
by relieving patients affected with dropsy. " Spontaneous
vomiting," says the Dr. has sometimes excited an absorption
in hydropic parts, end thereby drawn off the waters lodged
in them, it is reasonable to suppose, that vomiting excited
by art, may have the same effect; and accordingly it has
been often practiced with advantage*." The doctor then
proceeds with observing, "that there are no means we can
employ to procure a copious evacuation of serous fluids,
with greater certainty than the operation of purgatives,
and it is upon these accounts, that purging is the evacua-
tion which has been most frequently, and perhaps with
most success, employed in dropsy †." He further remarks
" that the kidneys afford a natural outlet for a great part of
the watery fluids, contained in the blood vessels; and the
increasing the excretions by the kidneys ‡ to a considerable 
degree, is a means, as likely, as any other of exciting an
absorption in dropsical parts. It is upon this account that
* Cullen's First lines Vol. II. page 407.
† Cullen's Practice of Physic. Vol. II. page 408.
‡ It is remarked by Dr. Sydenham, " when treating of diuretics in drop-
sical cases, "that where the waters are not to be discharged by ve- 


( 61 )
diuretic medicines have been always properly employed in
the cure of dropsy. It happens however, unluckily, that
none of them are of a very certain operation*". He then
proceedes by announcing the utility of sudorifics, in many
calls of dropsical affections, and affirms, that they have
proved salutary in many instances.
As I have had some opportunities of witnessing the
happy effects of tobacco, and its various operations on
the system, I would beg leave to observe that all these
virtues hitherto enumerated by Doctor Cullen, appear to be,
under certain circumstances, concentrated in this plant;
from my experience, I may venture to assert, with some
degree of confidence, that it has proved of inestimable
worth for the relief of patients afflicted with dropsy.
In reviewing what I have written on the medical pro-
perties of this plant, I perceive that my limited information
has prevented me from doing ample justice to the subject:
in order, therefore, to extenuate my deficiencies, I shall
miting purging; for instance in weak constiutions, and hysteric
subjects, they cannot be evacuated by purgatives, and much less by
vomitives, but are to be carried off by diuretics. Several of this kind are
extolled in the writings of physicians, but the most, if not the only
efficacious ones, in my opinion, are those prepared from lixivial salts,
from whatever plant the ashes be obtained". Doctor Wallis observes
that the ashes of tobacco, has oftentimes proved efficacious in the re—
lief of dropsy. Wallis's Sydenham. Vol. II. page 289.
* Doctor Fowler observes on this head, that such confederations
first induced him to make trial of a greater variety of diuretic
medicines in dropsical cases, than have generally been used; in
hopes of finding some one, more efficacious than the rest: and he
flatters himself, he may recommend, as such, the celebrated Indian
plant commonly called Tobacco. 


( 62 )
apply to the learned pages of Doctor Fowler* for aid, in
accomplishing the design of this undertaking.
In this work so replete with medical information, many
interesting facts may be collected ; and I trust that it will be
found on an impassioned examination of our experiments,
that I have not departed from truth, nor built my opinions
on conjecture.
Doctor Fowler observes that a paragraph, in the third
volume of Dr. Duncan's very valuable medical commen-
taries, first induced him to administer tobacco. It was part
of a letter, from Dr. Garden of Charleston South-Carolina,
to Dr. Hope of Edinburgh ; wherein he says—" Here we
use with surprizingly great efficacy, in dropsical cases, the
alkaline fixed salt of tobacco, &c.
Doctor Fowler remarks that a variety of operations,
in different authors, have been ascribed to this plant, and
that he was led from this circumstance to ascertain more
particularly its virtues; being solicitous of establishing his
opinions on a more substantial basis than the assertions of
others, he resolved on entering into a minute investigation
of the subject, and consequently founded the positions there
stated, on his own experience and observation.
The result of this enquiry, has afforded him very fa-
vourable ideas upon the subject, and from the number of
facts enumerated by him, we may infer, that tobacco, under
proper regulations, may be administered internally, not only
as a safe, but as an efficacious, and valuable remedy ; especi-
* See Doctor Thomas Fowler's Medical reports of the Effects of
Tobacco. 

( 63 )
ally as a powerful diuretic in cases of dropsies and dysuries*.
* To illustrate the manner of its exhibition, and also its salu-
tary effects in many cases, I will take the liberty of inserting a few
extracts from Dr. Fowler, as related by him, and which were the re-
sults of his own observations.
It appears from many experiments, says the Doctor, that the
average dose for an adult, sufficient to produce the desired effect,
will be about eighty drops of the infusion ; or to speak with some
latitude, from sixty drops to one hundred, and to be repeated twice
a day.
The properest times for administering the medicine, are two
hours before dinner, and at bed-time ; it being observed to disagree
the most with the stomach, in a morning fasting. And such is the
difference between morning and night, that almost every patient will
require to take one fourth, and some even one third less, in the
forenoon, than in the evening ; in order to enable them to bear the
doses, with equal convenience. The infusion should always be ad-
ministered in some vehicle ; which may either be water, or any other
simple drink.
The common dose just mentioned, relate only to adults of an
ordinary constitution; for it deserves particular notice, that be-
tween constitutions, which are very nervous and irritable, and those
which are very robust, or torpid, or long accustomed to the use of
tobacco, the doses will admit of very great, and surprising varia-
tions.
As an illustration of this point, I shall here annex a comparative
view of the doses of the infusion, administered in ninety four cases
of adults ; taking the medium-dose of each case, and reducing the
whole into four classes, according to the number of drops.
First Class. Medium doses.
21 cases (3 men, and 18 women), from 35 to 60 drops.
Second Class,
57 cases, (29 men, and 28 women), from 60 to 100 drops.

( 64 )
A medicine possessing this quality in an emiment de-
gree, has long been acknowledged to be a desideratum in
physic; and let it be considered as a further recommenda-
tion, that it is found in a vegetable. Because the produc-
tions of nature are generally constant and uniform ; while
those of art, are too often variable and uncertain ; which
is the case in some of our most powerful chemical remedies.
In Fever.
AS it is not my intention to enter into a particular
disquisition relative to the nature of fever, I shall only ob-
serve that such medicines as promote a profuse diaphoresis
are frequently resorted to by physicians, and I have no
doubt but that the infusion of tobacco, in nauseating doses,
so as to induce copious sweating, would be attended with
very salutary effects.
Third Class.
13 cases, (9 men, and 4 women), from 100 to 150.
Fourth Class.
3 cases, ( 3 men), from 150 to 300.
94
Seeing the diversity of doses is so great, I would lay it down as
a rule, by way of caution, to begin with sixty drops, or three fourths
of the medium-dose, in a case of a delicate constitution ; and to in-
crease the number of drops, by five, eight or ten at a time, till by
their obvious effects on the system, the proper dose shall be ascer-
tained.
But if the patient should be a male, and the constitution robust,
torpid, or accustomed to the use of tobacco, we may safely venture
to begin with eighty, ninety, or one hundred drops ; and thus, with
more expedition, regulate the future doses according to the effects. 

( 65 )
In the cure of fever, various means are resorted to
by medical characters; some appear to be more particu-
larly attached to the use of the lancet, others to vomiting,
some to sweating, and many prefer the use of purgatives,
but their objects, it may be presumed, are ultimately the
same, viz. depletion. Is it not probable then that the com-
plicated operation of tobacco would render its exhibition
beneficial in many cases of fever? And would it not, on
this consideration, be expedient for physicians to practise
the use of it more often than they do ?
In testimony of its efficacy, I have a well authenticated
fact, where the external application of the leaves to the
wrists of a child, produced considerable nausea, a profuse
diaphoresis, and at length vomiting, with repeated evacu-
ations downwards. This child had been for some time
afflicted with an obstinate fever, and the usual remedies
were made use of without any benefit attending them ; but
by the virtues of tobacco, in the manner above specified,
the disease was totally subdued, and the child was happily
rescued from impending death.
Doctor Shannon remarks,"that the Africans make use
of a sort of poultice of wild tobacco chopped up green,
with green capsicum*, applied to the wrists for the cure of
fever, with a decoction of herbs that promote a copious
sweat † ."
* A species of Pepper.
† R. Shannon, M. D. on Medicine, page 380.
I 

( 66 )
In Nephritis.
IN cases of nephritis calculosa, or gravel, the infusion
of tobacco has been given with very good effect; and Dr.
Fowler affirms, that he has seen many cases where it proved
of infinite utility, and in some instances perfected radical
cures. Physicians many years back, were not ignorant of
its virtues in such affections, for they have asserted that it
has proved " profitable for those who are troubled with a
stone in the kidney, both to ease pain, and by provoking
urine to expel gravel and the stone engendered therein. † "
Ascarides.
A SPECIES of worms, thus termed from their
incessant troublesome motion, which excites an itching.
They are small and white, with sharp pointed heads, and
generally exist in the rectum.
They oftentimes occasion such uneasiness in some peo-
ple as to induce fainting, and frequently prove so trouble-
some throughout the night, as to deprive them of sleep.
They are so completely enveloped in mucus, that it is with
difficulty they can be eradicated, and frequently they resist
the most powerful anthelmintics ; but practical authors ob-
serve, " that the fumes of burning tobacco injected clyster-
wise into the rectum, is of singular efficacy."
Farriers are aware of its immense virtues in such affec-
tions, for they generally pronounce it to be infallible in
expelling those small worms, commonly called bots, which
so frequently prove mortal to many horses.
† Theatrum Botannicum, p. 711. 

( 67 )
In Asthma.
IN asthmatic cases, this medicine has frequently
afforded relief, by its expectorant quality ;* for agreeable
to the discharge of mucous, we find the remission of cough-
ing more or less considerable: but should an inflammatory
type prevail, which generally occurs in the recent stage of
this disease , its use should be protracted, until proper deple-
tive remedies have had the effect of reducing the system to
that state, which would render its exhibition the more effi-
cacious.
In Odontalgia or Tooth-ach.
IN such affections, the smoking of a segar, has im-
parted considerable relief. A piece of lint, impregnated
with the expressed juice of tobacco, has often, in some in-
stances, acted as a charm, in mitigating the violence of the
tooth-ach. The oil of tobacco, † dropped on a piece of cot-
ton, of sufficient magnitude to occupy the concavity of the
affected tooth, has proved almost instantaneous in its relief.
In these various forms, tobacco acts by its stimulating
quality, destroying the sensibility of the nerve, and thereby
encountering pain. Opium oftentimes acts in like man-
ner, but neither perfect permanent cures ; for the pains
frequently recur, and the only radical remedy to which we
must ultimately resort, is the extraction of the affected
tooth.
* Dr. Fowler observes, that he has tried the infusion in many
cases of asthma, where it proved expectorant, and procured reliefs.
† It must here be remarked that this remedy should not be 


( 68 )
In Colic.
THE decoction of tobacco, exhibited in the form of
an injection, has afforded almost instantaneous relief, after
other medicines had proved ineffectual. Particularly as
Dr. Sydenham observes, " when the violence of the vomit-
ing do not yield to mild purgatives; for it avails not to ex-
hibit a gentle cathartic, unless perhaps, the patient be easy
to work upon, which should be carefully inquired into, be-
cause such a medicine, being too weak to make its way
through the intestinal tube, does more mischief: the vo-
miting and pain being increased by its languid and ineffec-
tual motion.*" There was a violent case of this disease,
which came under the immediate inspection of Dr. Deas,
in South-Carolina; where the beneficial influence of to-
bacco was very demonstrative. Several powerful cathar-
tics were administered without the smallest effect ; and the
disorder was degenerating fast into an iliac passion. Re-
course was then had, as the last resource, to a strong de-
coction of the dried leaves of tobacco; immediately after
the exhibition of it, through the medium of the rectum, a
violent commotion pervaded the whole abdominal viscera ;
the patient became extremely restless † , and it was with
adopted by persons unaccustomed to the use of tobacco, as the oil
is extremely nauseous, and will oftentimes induce vomiting.
* Wallis's Sydenham, p. 277.
† Dr. Fowler remarks, that by a proper administration, these
violent effects may be avoided. An ounce of the infusion he ob-
serves, will be found a medium dose, in the form of an injection,
for an adult of an ordinary constitution ; and the general rule by
which he was guided, is as follows : Supposing a common injeftion
to have been administered without effect, I would order one of an

( 69 )
the greatest difficulty that two persons could keep him in
his bed. At length a profuse discharge ensued, and relief
was afforded in a very short time.
In the Iliac Passion.
" IT is highly proper," says Dr. Sydenham, " to give
a strong purging glyster, an hour or two after bleeding*."
In such cases, I have seen the tobacco infusion made use
of with considerable advantage. The Doctor himself re-
marks the salutary effects of tobacco in this disease. " The
smoke of tobacco," he observes, " forced up thro' a blad-
der into the bowels by an inverted pipe, has been attended
with very beneficial consequences."
It is asserted in the Royal Encyclopœdia, that a strong
decoction of tobacco thrown up the rectum, has proved of
good effect in what is usually called stone-colic, and also
in the iliac passion.
ounce of the infusion, agreeable to the preceding observation, in
half a pint of milk, or common gruel, to be immediately injected.
If this procured no relief, or excited no giddiness, or nausea, con-
tinuing for the space of thirty, forty, or sixty minutes; these last
effects in obstinate constipations, most frequently preceding its lax-
ative operation, then I would gradually increase the strength of the
future injections, till one or other of these effects should take
place.
By this mode of proceeding, the powers of the medicines, whe-
ther successful or not, will be fully tried in the space of a few
hours; a matter of serious consequence, where suspense is distressing,
and delay dangerous.
* Wallis's Sydenham, p. 443. 

( 70 )
In Hernia.
IT generally occurs that costiveness is one of the most
alarming symptoms attendant on this disease, for the relief
of which, stimulating purgatives are generally administer-
ed ; but it not unfrequently happens that they do much
injury, for when they have not the desired effect, they pro-
duce a considerable nausea at the stomach, and sometimes
vomiting, which promotes the pain and tension of the
tumour.
" In such affections," says Mr. Bell, "I would re-
commend tobacco smoke thrown up in the form of injec-
tions, as preferable to every other remedy.*"
In Tympanites Intestinalis.
This is termed a flatulent dropsy, the abdomen fre-
quently becomes considerably distended, and in such cases
the chief intention is to discharge the flatulencies: various
remedies have been indicated for this purpose, and there
have been instances where the infusion of tobacco has prov-
ed efficacious after the failure of many of them.
" A case of two years continuance," says Doctor
Fowler, " after the trial of various remedies, has been sur-
prisingly relieved by glysters of tobacco prepared in a
very strong manner. Their operation was moderately pur-
gative, accompanied with nauaea, vertigo, a copious per-
spiration, and much discharge of wind."
* Bell's Surgery, vol. 1. p. 162. 

( 7I )
In obstinate Ulcers.
The dried leaves of tobacco, steeped in water and ap-
plied to the parts affected, have sometimes been attended
with beneficial effects.
Mr. William Bartram informed me, that he knew of
several long standing ulcers, after having resisted the usu-
al remedies, that were entirely cured by the use of tobacco,
in the manner above specified. Doctor Earle, of Maryland,
communicated to me the case of a child, who had been for
several months afflicted with an obstinate eruption on its
head, which evaded the skill of several eminent physicians,
that was ultimately cured by an old woman, who daily dres-
sed it with an ointment of tobacco, previously washing the
part with a decoction of the same.
In the Itch.
This fulsome disorder has frequently been cured by
the application of tobacco to the affected parts. Mr. Jacobs,
a gentleman from Paris, informed me, that the French phy-
sicians, make great use of the tobacco wash * in obstinate
* The wash is prepared in the following manner.
To one pound of the dried tobacco leaves, add four quarts of
water; let these boil slowly over a gentle fire, for the space of half
an hour then pour off the liquor, and add to it one ounce of soda or
mineral alkali. The parts affected are to be well rubbed with a suf-
ficient portion of this mixture, and to be continued from one to three
weeks, according to the virulency of the case. Though it must be
remarked, that, in consequence of the irritability of many constitu-
tions, great caution is requisite, with respect to its use, as it has, in
some instances, occasioned vomiting, and sometimes convulsions. 

( 72 )
cases of cutaneous eruptions. The same, he avers, seldom
fails of curing the itch: the eruptive parts are to be washed
three or four times a day, until every appearance subsides;
in this way radical cures have been effected, even after the
disease had resisted the most powerful medicines.
A strong decoction of the stalks with sharp-pointed dock
and alum is said to be of good service, used externally, in
cuticular distempers: this is also said to be infallible in cur-
ing the mange in dogs.*
In Phtheiriasis.
This is a lousy distemper, to which most children are
generally subject, adults also at times, are afflicted with it.
Moist and warm situations promote the increase of these de-
testable vermin ; but a cold and dry one very soon exter-
minate them. Four species are peculiar to the human body,
viz. 1st. The pediculi, † so called from their being more
troublesome with their feet, than from their bite. They ge-
nerally infest the head, particularly if sore.
2d. Morpiones or Crab-lice. They are thus called from
the analogy which they bear to a crab-fish. 3d. Body-lice.
These are generated in the apparel of the filthy. 4th. A spe-
cies which breed under the cuticle, and are called by some
* The New Royal Encyclopedia, by George Selby Howard.
† A gentleman informed me, that when young, he was neglected
by his attendants, and for a time was much afflicted with the first
and third species of these fulsome vermin, which occasioned obsti-
nate eruptions, in his head, and on various parts of his body. Many 

( 73 )
authors, cyriones. They are of a round form, extremely mi-
nute, and are generally found in the hands and feet. By
creeping under the scarf-skin they induce an intolerable
itching, and when the skin bursts where they lodge, clus-
ters of them are found deposited in a small concavity.
A good diet, and attention to cleanliness contribute
much to the destruction of these fulsome vermin. Mercurial
ointment, and a solution of corrosive sublimate are held in the
greatest estimation; but I have heard of instances, where
these have failed, and an infusion of tobacco,* perfected a
radical cure.
K
medicines were tried for his relief, but without any benefit whatever.
Recourse was then had to a strong decoction of tobacco, which was
applied three or four times a day, to the parts affected, and in a fort-
night or three weeks he was radically cured.
* It may here be necessary to remark that, I have often heard
it asserted that, the tobacco decoction proves very destructive to
flies, when sprinkled about a room. The same is corroborated in
the Theatrum Botanicam, where the author observes, that a decoc-
tion of tobacco was frequently made use of for the purpose of de-
stroying flies.
Doctor Shannon asserts that, there is a large fly in some parts
of Africa, that produces often a dreadful disease, by depositing
its ova in the mouth or nose.
It happens frequently to negroes, and there are several exam-
ples of it among the common soldiers. While they are sleeping
in the open air, the fly deposits its ova most commonly in the nose,
but sometimes in the mouth. The pain, swelling, and inflamma-
tion about the face, after the maggots are formed and ready to
break forth, are very great, and the poor sufferers are almost dis-
tracted The number of living maggots that come away, is often
considerable, and they are of a large size, being nearly half an inch
long. The usual remedy in such cases is, inhaling the steam of
a strong decoction of tobacco through the mouth and nose, according
to the seat of the disease ; it procures relief: perhaps washing the
mouth and syringing the nose, might be equally or more effectual.
See Shannon on medicine. p. 382.

( 74 )
Errhines.
These are medicines which excite a preternatural dis-
charge from the mucous follicles of the Schneiderian mem-
brane upon the internal surface of the nose, and adjacent con-
cavities ; by which they frequently relieve rheumatic con-
gestions, and particularly violent tooth-ach. As an errhine,
the tobacco powder, commonly called snuff, has been long
in great repute: its use is frequently practised, and has been
strongly recommended for the relief of head-ach, pains of
the ear, and opthalmias. Its salutary influence in such affec-
tions is sufficiently confirmed by the pains again recurring
as often as its use was suspended for a day or two.
How far the effects of errhines may extend, says Dr.
Cullen, cannot be exactly determined; but it is probable,
that they may operate more or less on the whole vessels of
the head, as even a branch of the internal carotid passes into
the nose: and independent of this, it is not improbable that
our errhines may have been of use in preventing apoplexy,*
and palsy; which at least is to be attended to so far, that
whenever any approach to these diseases is suspected, the
drying up of the mucous discharge should be attended to,
and, if possible restored.
As much virtue has been attributed to nicotiana, in
expelling worms, I made the subsequent experiments, with
a view to elucidate an interesting subject, and to ascertain
the foundation for such an opinion.
These experiments were made with accuracy; and in
my opinion substantiate the anthelmintic powers of this
plant.
* Cullen's materia medica, vol. 8. page 295 


( 75 )
Exp. I. I immersed a common worm,* taken out of
the earth, into a small quantity of the tobacco infusion, † and
in three minutes it became convulsed, which continued for
the space of twelve minutes, but at the expiration of fifteen
minutes, no symptoms of life were discernible.
Exp. 2. Ten grains of calomel were suspended in a
small quantity of water. Another worm of the same species
was introduced into this mixture, which was considerably
affected in three minutes, in ten still more so, in fifteen be-
gan to subside; in thirty it remained perfectly dormant.
At the expiration of an hour, still alive, but continued in-
active, unless disturbed.
Exp. 3. In a solution of white sugar I introduced
another worm, as above; it was convulsed in five minutes;
in ten these symptoms were somewhat diminished; in fifteen
remained quiet at the bottom of the vessel, and in forty it
appeared perfectly inanimate.
Exp. 4. In the distilled water of tobacco, which was
extremely pungent, I immersed another worm, which almost
instantaneously contorted itself into a variety of forms, ex-
hibiting strong marks of violent pain, and in the short lapse
of three minutes it expired.
Exp. 5. Five grains of corrosive sublimate, dissolved in
water, produced convulsions in two minutes, and a torpor
in twelve.
* I selected this species of worm for my experiments, in con-
sequecnce of the analogy which exists between it and that ge-
nerated in the human system.
† One drachm of the dried tobacco leaves was infused in an
ounce of water, for the space of twenty-four hours after which
it was filtered off. 


( 76 )
Exp. 6. Molasses produced convulsions in five mi-
nutes, and inactivity in twenty-five.
Exp. 7. A strong decoction of pink root, brought on
convulsions in seven minutes, and a torpor in thirty.
We find, from the several preceding experiments,
that tobacco, as an anthelmintic, is deserving of being held
in high repute.
Several of the most powerful medicines, whose virtues
as a vermifuge, are in the greatest estimation, appear to be
but feeble in their operation, when compared with the great
influence of tobacco in the expulsion of worms.
The celebrated Spigelia Marylandica of Linnæus, it
must be acknowledged, is very generally destructive to
worms ; but, agreeable to the first aud seventh experi-
ments, under the head of anthelmintics, we find that to-
bacco appears to be more instantaneous in its operation,
though, perhaps ultimately, not more effectual. Yet, from
its more immediate effect on those animals, I should rather
presume, that it merits the particular attention of physi-
cians, as a valuable medicine, and that, on this considera-
tion, it would, unquestionably be expedient to give it re-
peated trials in those cases, which may resist the more fee-
ble operation of other anthelmintics.*
* Dr. Shannon, † after enumerating several diseases peculiar to
the Africans, observes, that the Guinea-worm is another evil atten-
dant on the negroes in Africa, and is generally cured by anthelmin-
tics.
It may be just, therefore, to infer, that the tobacco infusion may be
administered with very good effect.
† Shannon on medicine. p. 380. 

( 77 )
As a Cathartic.
In cases of constipations of the abdominal viscera, the
infusion of tobacco has sometimes been administered, and of-
ten with immediate relief by occasioning a speedy expul-
sion of the obstncing indurated fœces. The smoke,* says
Dr. Cullen, thrown up the rectum, will operate in like
manner, and has proved beneficial, after the failure of many
violent cathartics; it enters much further into the intestines
than injections commonly do, and is thereby applied to a
larger surface, by which means it may be rendered much
more powerful than the infusion.
It is to be regretted, says Dr. Fowler, that injections
of tobacco are not in more general use, for I am thorough-
ly persuaded, that in cases of the colic, they would prove
more successful than any other kind with which we are ac-
quainted.
From the many facts and observations which I have hi-
therto adduced, relative to the medicinal influence of tobac-
co, it is, doubtless, reasonable to infer, that it may prove
efficacious in many diseases.
* A gentleman of my particular acquaintance informed me, that
he was not in the habit of smoking much, but whenever he was trou-
bled with any degree of costiveness, it was only resorting to a segar
to obviate this inconvenience, which never failed of acting as a leni-
ent purgative, and imparted immediate relief. This method he pre-
ferred to the taking of physic, as it was mild in its effects, and left his
body agreeably composed.
If the generality of persons were to relinquish the perpetual use of
this plant, and only to have recourse to it for its medicinal virtues
when necessity demanded, is it not more than probable, that many
diseases may be eradicated, or at least their violence mitigated by its
salutary influence ? 

( 78 )
That it is of great service in dropsical affections, has
been clearly demonstrated; and, in cases of dysury, it has,
in many instances, proved salutary, by successfully promot-
ing a copious discharge of urine. In short, much may be
said of its virtues as a medicine, but as it is not my wish to
prove prolix, by profusely extending encomiums on an in-
digenous plant, so universally known, I shall conclude by
observing, that the errors and imperfections of this essay,
are, no doubt, easily discernible : but, at the same time, I am
buoyed up, with the flattering idea, that the candid reader
will readily excuse a juvenile attempt.
As an expanded field lies open before us, for investiga-
tion, I would wish, that the subject might be hereafter taken
up, by some more adequate experimentalist, as I am persuad-
ed that the complicated operative effects of tobacco on the
human system, would render it an invaluable medicine in
many obstinate diseases.
ERRATA.
In Page 8, line a, for interior, read anterior.
18, 2, from the bottom, for exhorbitant, read
exorbitant.
24, 11, for langour, read languor.
34, 6, for stimuly, read stimulus.
38, 6, for cuds, read ends.
55, in the bottom, for pages 32 and 33, read
25 and 26.