^M*T; '&< ■ . ^f.;%. % ^™* vr."»-# c%' '%~>^ ,%° igjil V«»£ £ ■-*<"« f £ JP r„\-l -&$..* • ^^^j-""-? •' ' V ' ; ' , 2 \ J^. '■ »» Surgeon General's Office PV-£»- «sr. fc ■_Jt<-/fo/<, ^ N. 3UJ. '^q.Q' c c*" i. fe*J»s •> H -^^ w (' b|. -s! V»-' -~slfi^ -^ i' 4&8F3 I f A MATERIA IVIEDICA. OF THE &£0tematft*U£ Strang BY WILLIAM ZOLLICKOFFER, M. D. Licentiate in Medicine and Surgery. Honorary member of the Philadelphia Medical Society and of the Vermont Mfdical Society; member of the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland; honorary member of the Baltimore Medical Society, and of the Lexington Medical Society; corresponding member of the Medico-Botanical Society of London; honorary member of the Medical Society of Maryland, of the Pittsburg Medical Society, and of the Louisville Society for the promotion of Medical Knowledge. Corresponding member of the Medical Society of the District ef Columbia; honorary member of the Medical Faculty of Berks county, of the Medical Society of the state of Delaware, an I the Society of Natural Sciences of St. Gall, Switzerland; member of the College of Physicians of the Valley of Virginia; honorary member of Washington Medical Society, and member of the Helvetic National Academy of Natural Sciences, &c. SECOND EDITION, WITH EMENDATIONS, &(J. " /■'■ J (PS H. Baltimore PUBLISHED BY JAMES LOVEGROVE. WM. WOODDY, PRINTER. 1827. 'fyj'.i r cf- . OOVY RIGHT SECURED ACCORDING TO LAW TO THE HONOURABLE SAMUEL L. MITCHILL, A.M.M.D.L.L. D; F.R.S. Late Professor, of Materia Medica and Botany in the Univer- sity of the state of New York, fyc. fyc. Dear Sir, Believing that it will meet with your ap- probation, I have taken the liberty of inscribing the succeeding pages to you, as a small testimony, not on- ly of the high respect and consideration that I enter- tain of your pre-eminent professional knowledge, in conjunction with the unlimitted disposition, that you have on every occasion evinced, in behalf of the heal- ing art; but, likewise in relation to the extensive and general fund of information that you possess, on the various subjects, connected with the diversified ob- jects of research and intelligence, which constitute the learned scholar and profound statesman. The subject of the succeeding pages, you are inti- mately acquainted with, and have taught its principles with a success, unparalleled by few professors in this country.—Therefore, it would appear that you possess the necessary competency to judge how far I have been successful, in arranging the articles indigenous to the United States under the heads to which they properly belong. IV Should the effort that has been made, with a view to the accomplishment of the desirable object, meet with your approbation, and, coincide with the sentiments Oi the medical community, my most ardent and sincere wishes will be realized. Y With the most profound respect and consideration, I remain, dear Sir, your obedient humble servant. WILLIAM ZOLLICKOFFER. I ! INTRODUCTION. 1HE medical practitioner, who has become inti- mately acquainted with the remediate virtues, and con- sequent operation, of the vegetable productions indige- ?' nous to the United States, cannot but be fully impress- ed with the sentiment of the utility to be derived there- from, in a practical point of consideration. He, indeed, may, in consequence of the information that he may possess on this interesting subject, have it not unfre- quently in his power to avail himself of the advantage of selecting a variety of invaluable articles, that, when . directed under circumstances favorable to their exhibi- tion, may be equally productive in their salutary effects, Kto the most active remedies, selected from the veg- etable kingdom, of exotick origin. This circum- stance, taken into consideration in conjunction with that of its being considered an accomplishment to the American physician to be acquainted with the Materia Medica of his country, should act as a powerful incentive, in inducing him to be indefatigable in the accumulation of the knowledge therewith con- 6 nected. But, although within the limits of the vast, and almost unbounded territory of our country, an immense field for research and discovery, is presented to the eye of the investigating mind, it is to be deeply re- gretted, that but few of the votaries of the medical sci- ence, comparatively speaking, have, as yet, become sufficiently convinced of the infinite advantages to be derived from a prosecution of the means that are calcu- lated to develope the hidden treasures therein contained. The improvements and discoveries that have been made, in relation to the therapeutick operation of our native plants, within a few years, should be sufficient to induce those who possess a spirit of emulation, to remain no longer silent or negligent, but to arouse themselves in the aid and support of a cause, the ulti- mate intention of which has for its object, the meliora- tion of the corporeal afflictions connected with human existence. Does it not seem singular, indeed, to discover, in conversation with an American physician, that he is not in the possession of the most limited share of informa- tion, connected with the vegetable Materia Medica of his native soil? It is true, that a knowledge of this de- partment may, in some measure be dispensed with; but this circumstance is not a sufficient argument of its being unnecessary to pursue the most direct means to become informed of the virtues and doses of our native plants, and the diseases in which they are calculated to be productive of the most salutary effects. \ 7 Whatever may be productive of benefit to mankind should be earnestly sought after, by every practitioner who has the good of his species at heart; and who rightly considers the awfully responsible situation in which he is placed, as the dispenser of remedies for the removal and alleviation of diseases. It is generally expected, at present, by the commu- nity at large, that physicians are more or less acquaint- ed with this subject, and who, above all others, should be in possession* of the necessary information appertaining to the subject under consideration. The object and intention that is in view, in the*compi- lation of the matter contained in the succeeding pages, is to facilitate, if possible, the study of the remediate virtues of our medicinal plants. In order to effect this, care has been taken to consult the most approved au- ' thorities, and such selections have been carefully made, as may be adapted to the purpose; giving, in the mean time, such experiments as have been made by gentle- men who have obliged me with their communications; and also, making such remarks as have come under my immediate notice. I have, likewiset adopted the classification of John Murray, M. D. from its supposed simplicity, as well as the utility which it affords; with the exception of in- cluding the class of Escharotics in the third division of chemical remedies, which I have transferred to the second division of local stimulants. The cause of this alteration will be explained hereafter, in the chapter on Escharotics. 8 How far I have been successful in the attempt that has been made, I must leave to the judgment of an ingenuous medical public to decide; and if I have erred in some respect, it has been in the pursuit of the most satisfactory means that may be calculated to Improve this department of the healing art; and with the intention of rendering every facility in my power, to aid in the accumulation of the best information con- nected with the subject of its progressive improvement. Westminster, Maryland, 1826, $Wutw$& fHc¥$cu* CHAPTER I. On the Improvement of the Materia Medica. m. HE application of medicines, in the first instances in which they were employed, with a view to the re- moval of diseases, and of imparting tone to debilitated constitutions, is, no doubt, coetaneous with the first maladies with which mankind were afflicted. All at tempts towards an investigation of the cause that led to the administration of remediate articles, in the days of ignorance and superstition, when medical science was in a state of infancy; or before any correct systems were, perhaps, ever conceived of, would not be calcu- lated to result in any practical utility. We have, how- ever, every reason for believing, that mankind, in the more remote periods of antiquity, was naturally led to conclude, that such substances as possessed neither es- 2 10 culent or nutritive qualities, might be calculated to alle- viate pain, remove spasm, and restore, to the perform- ance of their functions, such parts of the living econo- my as were deranged in consequence of disease. From these days, gradual, and almost imperceptible im- provements have been making, until the present pe- riod, in which we may congratulate ourselves in having a Materia Medica, abounding with innumerous produc- tions of a nature infinitely important. These produc- tions, although they might at the time they were first introduced, have been recommended upon popular au- thority, have not been continued in the present list, from this circumstance; but in consequence of the in- trinsick virtues they have been found to possess, that have stood the test of ages without becoming lessened in their medicinal characters. An attentive perusal of the various authors, both an- cient and modern, on this department of the healing art, will amply compensate the industrious inquirer, and fully convince him, that the present improved state of medical science, has been owing to the constant re- jection of such productions as have been found nearly, or altogether inert, and consequently, unworthy of the consideration of the profession. Considerations also, of the importance of the intro- duction of such substances as possess remediate pow- ers, have influenced the minds of the industrious vota- ries of the medical faculty to use their unwearied ex- ertions, with the view of adding to the valuable means already accumulated, for the most dignified and lauda- 11 ble purposes that can possibly attract the attention of intelligent beings. The Materia Medica, particularly relating to our own country, has, within the lapse of the last few years, increased in point of richness of matter. Much has- been done, to the great honour of some of her citizens, by their devotion to an examination of the hidden trea- sures, that reside in that part of the vegetable kingdom indigenous to our soil; and much more, doubtless, re- mains to be effected. The credit, however, appears only to be attached to a few of the medical men of the United States, comparatively speaking, for the present acquaintance we possess of the therapeutic operation of our native plants. Whatever are the motives that prompt men of an ex- tensive intellectual capacity, to devote their time and attention to the cultivation of particular scientific pur- suits, in order to extend a knowledge of the subjects that may be the object of their investigations, by their originality, research and experience, is a matter of very little importance. Whether it be with a view to arrive at a certain point of pre-eminent celebrity, or ultimate- ly benefit the community in general, the happy con- sequences resulting from their discoveries having a di- rect tendency to promote knowledge, and greatly facili- tate the means of acquiring information, undoubtedly entitle them to the respect and esteem of every en- lightened and liberal individual. We should, therefore, consider ourselves much in- debted to those, who have directed their attention to 12 the support and improvement of the Materia Medica, in conjunction with the various departments of know- ledge coming within the grasp and comprehension of the human mind. For, the branch of medical educa- tion, of which the succeeding pages treats, cannot be properly cultivated without calling into our aid the subjects of Botany, Pharmacy and Chemistry—each of which departments appear to be more or less connected with the successful prosecution of its developement. Such, indeed, is the relationship that not unfrequently exists between the different branches of science, that it appears, no one can be studied with any very great degree of proficiency, without having reference to one or more that may interlink with it. Botany, as connected with the improvement of the vegetable Materia Medica, certainly merits a certain degree of attention; and when properly applied, cannot fail, in some measure, in contributing to the facilities already in our possession. 1 do not here wish it to be understood, that much advantage may result from the idea of adopting the criterion that has very often been depended on, relative to plants that are, to a certain degree, related to each other by botanical affinity, pos- sessing a similarity in medicinal virtues, or in alimoni- ous qualities. This rule, in some few respects, appears to be rather correct, but in the general, is rather de- fective. One of the classes of Linnaeus, includes a number of plants that would be calculated to corrobor- ate ttiis sentiment, did not experience prove, that in many of the other classes, a contrary, and entirely op- 13 posite result occurs. This rule may be even extended to the different species belonging to the various genera of plants, in which we not unfrequently discover, that opposite powers exist, not only in the different families^ but in the different individuals in these families; which might, without any difficulty, be sufficiently proved beyond contradiction. A circumstance that must have attracted the attentive consideration of every practical modern botanist. Therefore, nothing less than confusion would be created were this sentiment reduced to practice, with a view of determining the virtues of plants, and much injury be sustained by the subjects of the first administration of unknown productions in a remediate point of view. The most certain rule by which the virtues of plants may justly be appreciated, and by which their properties may be- come established, is that which is founded upon an attentive examination of the influence they exert on the human system, and their consequent applicability to the diversified cases and diseases in which they may be indicated. No correct opinions can likewise be drawn, of a conclusive nature, of plants, from their similarity in appearance, or rather, natural resemblance, in as much as vegetables of the same natural family not unfrequent- ly display properties immediately opposite to each other, both as relates to their sensible, as well as their operative, qualities. It has been considered superfluous to adduce the va- riations that exist, not only in the genera, but in the 14 same natural orders or families, in attestation of the correctness of the observations that have been made. The immortal Linnaeus, who has justly and very em- phatically been styled the Prince of Naturalists, con- ceived, that the remediate powers of plants might' be judged of from their particular colour. To him we are indebted-, in no small degree, for the present knowl- edge we possess upon the subject of botany; he re- marks, "Color pallidus, insipidum—viridus, crudem— luteus, amarum—ruber, acidum—albus, dulce—niger, ingrahim indicat." In some respects these rules may be considered as being correct; but, were they reduced to practice, they would, perhaps, in an hundred instances, be found to fail in more than half the number. Furthermore, it is an opinion that pretty generally prevails among many medical gentlemen, that all lacte- scent plants possess highly noxious powers; from which circumstance they naturally infer that an unknown vegetable is poisonous, without ever pursuing the pro- per course of investigation, in order to acquaint them- selves of its virtues. It is true, that the Papauer Som- niferum, or Poppy, and some other productions of this kind, are decidedly narcotic in their effects; but, per- haps, a greater number of lactescent plants are more acrid and irritating; hence, their internal administra- tion is succeeded by amesis and catharsis This seems to be the case with all the species belonging to the genus Euphorbia, with the exception of the Euphor- bia Hypericifolia, which is slightly narcotic, and pow- 15 erfully astringent. Some few lacteous productions are also inert. It has, moreover, been conjectured, that from the taste a pretty conclusive inference may be drawn of the peculiar powers of plants. Perhaps, this criterion may, in a generality of instances, be more successfully applied, than in all the preceding ones. It is not, however, without its defects, and were this rule depended on as an infallible guide, in some in- stances it would lead us into error, which would never be discovered until a disappoinment would occur, in the affects resulting from their exhibition. Plants, re- sembling each other in their qualities, not unfrequently exhibit analagous effects upon the living economy. For instance, bitters are generally tonic in their op- eration, aromatics stimulating; and such as possess a styptic taste are calculated to produce astringent effects. An objection to the first rule, that is, of bit- ters being tonic, is that of its application not being general, and consequently having considerable excep- tions; for instance, Opium, Digitatis, Stramonium, and the Nicotiapa Tabaccum, with some other articles, that possess bitterness to a very great degree, are nar- cotics, instead of being tonics. The two last rules are not quite as defective. Judging of the virtue of plants, from their odours, we are unable to form, in one out of ten instances, an idea of their precise powers.—Indeed, it is a circum- stance scarcely worthy of notice. From the foregoing observations, we are naturally led to conclude, that no correct opinion can be formed of 16 the particular operative agency of any of the vegetable productions, from our becoming acquainted with the classes, orders, genera, and natural families to which they belong; or either from their sensible qualities. We are also impressed with the sentiment, that these , criteria are not invariably to be depended on, as being infallible in directing us in our researches with a view to developing and making known the hidden virtues contained in the unexplored fields, mountains and valleys in which nature has placed them in soils con- genial with their luxuriant growth. These rules, should, however, not be entirely lost sight of, in as much as they may, under certain circum- stances, have a tendency at least to direct our attention to an examination of the virtues of such unknown substances as may occasionally present themselves to our consideration; and, therefore, aid us in some measure in our progress towards the improvement of the vege- table Meteria Medica of our native soil. Botany, as a department of natural history, prom- ises us more advantages, in its application to the pur- poses of the improvement of the Materia Medica. In having a thorough knowledge of this subject, we may with ease be able to distinguish the different genera from each other, and the various species thereunto belonging. This facility will enable us, by compari- son, to know whether or not the plants that may come under our notice have ever been the subjects of expe- rimental investigation. The decisions, under circum- stances of this nature, can soon be made; and if we 17 should find that an opportunity is left for prosecuting the necessary course of experiments, all that we shall have to do, will be, to enter at once upon the subject, that the earliest opportunity may be embraced, to com- municate the result of our researches to the medical community. The criteria heretofore spoken of, may, under certain circumstances, however, be had reference to, whenever they may be deemed necessary to aid us in our expe- rimental investigations. But, to depend on them alto- gether, would not only be superfluous, but calculated to lead us into error, and create nothing less than con- fusion. We now proceed to make a* few remarks upon the subject of Pharmacy, as appertaining to the improve- ment of the Materia Medica. This very important branch of therapeutick science, has for its object the preservation, arranging, compounding and intermixing the various articles included in the Materia Medica, so that as simple substances, we may obtain their active properties in the most convenient form, and in a state ef combination, increase their activity according to the intention we may have in contemplation. In order to prosecute this intention to advantage, there are a number of operations necessary to effect the purpose, some purely mechanical, and others altogether chemical. In this place we shall, however, only briefly notice that part which consists in the collection and preservation of medicinal substances, until an opportunity is afford- 3 18 ed for subjecting them to the necessary course of expe- riments; or to preserve such as have been found to pos- sess useful and valuable properties, until it may be ne- cessary to exhibit them. The vegetable kingdom furnishes us with articles that are used in medicine in their natural state. In collecting these, our object should be directed to the collection, or choice, of the most sound and perfect plants, or the particular parts of such substances as we wish to procure or select. After having procured such substances as we may wish to preserve, they should be defended from the effects of moisture, great heat, cold, and freely exposed to the air. "Yet when their activi- ty depend on volatile principles, instead of being freely exposed to the air, they must be confined as much as possible from its contact." Annual roots should be collected before they shoot forth their stalks or flowers; biennial roots in the har- vest of their first year, or the spring time of the second; perennial roots either in the spring time before the sap has begun to mount, or in harvest after it has returned. Worm eaten or decayed roots, except in a few cases of resinous plants, are to be rejected; the rest to be clean- ed immediately with a brush and cold water; immersing them in the water as short a time as possible, and cut- ting off the radicles and fibres when not essential. Roots which consists chiefly of fibres, and have but a small sap, may be dried at once; if juicy and not aro- matick in a heat somewhat below 100° Farenheit; but if aromatick, by simply exposing them to a current of 19 cold dry air, and frequently turning them in it. If very thick and strong, they must be split and cut into slices, and strung upon threads; if covered with a tough bark, they may be peeled and dried while fresh. Such as lose their virtues by drying are to be kept buried in dry sand." There is some difficulty as relates to laying down general rules for observation, respecting the collection of the stalks arid leaves of plants, in as much as some lose their active qualities by age, while others become more active. Aromaticks should, however, be gather- ed after the flower-buds are formed; and biennials be- fore they shoot; and perennials before they flower, or, about the time of flowering. All of which ought to be procured before the dew falls, or after it is off. As a general rule, they should be put in a warm, dry, and shady place; being careful at the same time not to permit them to lay very close together. Plants that are very succulent should be placed on a sieve, and frequently turned until they are properly dried. The cortical part of trees should be collected at different seasons, the spring is generally preferred for those that possess more or less of resinous matter; and the fall season for such as contain gum. In gathering of flowers, it may be remarked, that the most proper time is the middle of the day, and that when they have just opened. These are to be dried as leaves. It may not be improper to observe, that when they lose their colour and smell they are unfit for use. The different parts of plants that possess 20 oil or volatile principles, should be collected annually. Such as do not possess those properties are not liable to lose their activity so soon, and may, therefore, be kept for two or three years without sustaining any injury. By attending to the rules that have been laid down, we shall not be unsuccessful in preserving the different parts of plants for the purposes for which they may be intended.—This is essentially necessary to be done, if we wish, either to be successful in the experiments to which we intend to subject them, or if the intention is to exhibit them as remedies.—And without these precautionary measures be adopted little success may be anticipated as to the result of our experiments. The application of the principles of chemistry, when directed with a view to the accumulation of remedies, selected from the vegetable kingdom, undoubtedly af- fords us considerable facilities. We cannot, however, from the advantages that it imparts to us, be able to form conclusive sentiments in relation to the medicinal character, or alimonious qualities of plants, from what ever may be the result of its application, with a view of becoming informed of the proximate principles of such productions, as may be made the subject of examina- tion: in as much as plants which differ very widely in their sensible, operative and nutricious qualities, not unfrequently yield upon analysis, analagous results, in relation to their proximate principles. We cannot, therefore, judge, or rather form a correct idea of the character of plants, from whatever may be the result 21 of an analysis, in order to ascertain the proximate prin- ciples that enter into their composition: for it is impos- sible to "discover on what chemical principle, or what peculiarity of combination, the medicinal virtues of any active vegetable depend; for although these, in common with other qualities, may arise from chemical composition, yet the varieties of combination, from which they derive their origin, are too minute to be detected by our modes of analysis." It would, therefore, be altogether superfluous, and unattended with any useful practical results, to attempt to form ideas of the medical operation of any unknown vegetable from whatever might result from an attentive course of investigation, with a view of ascertaining the proximate principles of such a production. Experience and observation, guided by a well regu- lated and informed judgment, appears to be the only true criterion worthy of attention, and should be considered sufficiently adequate to enable the votaries of medical science to form correct views of the operation of reme- dies, in conjunction with their application to the diseas- es in which they may be useful, for "experience, which is constantly contradicting theory, is the only test of truth," and the only medium by which we can ever expect to arrive at perfection on subjects connected with the successful application and administration of remediate _ agents. Chemistry, in relation to its combination, furnishes us with some very efficacious remedies which entirely de- pend on these combinations; both from the mineral and 22 vegetable kingdoms; for quicksilver is possessed of no active properties in its natural state, but when united with muriatic acid, so as to form, what is usually de- nominated muriate of mercury, a very poisonous pro- duct is obtained, which should be administered with the greatest of caution. When united with a smaller por- tion of acid, so as to produce the sub. mur. hyd. we ob- tain an article much milder in its operation; an article indeed, that may justly be ranked among the most use- ful remedies. By the proper application of chemical principles, we are also able to obtain the more active parts of plants in a highly concentrated form; from which circumstance the doses are not only rendered much smaller, but the products thus obtained are fre- quently much more palatable; and wThen not more pleasant to the taste, the unpleasant gustation may be very easily covered, on the account of the dose being ex- ceedingly small. What indeed would the profession have known of Aicofm, of Emetin, of Morphia, of Daturia, and sev- eral other articles, had not chemistry, some time since, have taught us how to procure those substances from the productions in which they exist in native combina- tion. "Copious in resources, this noble science ex- plores all nature, and educes from each province the most valuable remedies." What would be the present state of the Materia Medica, had we until the present period have been de- prived of the advantages that chemistry has blessed us writh. It is true that we would have been in the pos- 23 session of a certain number of native remedies; but at the same time we would have been deprived of an in- valuable list that we now possess in consequence of the chemical researches of many of the worthy cultivators of this amusing and useful science. Daily are its ad- vantages made known in the increased accumulations of the most active and potent remedies, and in the furth- erance of the grand object of that department of medi- cine, that has for its ultimate end, the irradication and alleviation of the most distressing maladies incident to humanity. But, although chemistry imparts to us a means of adding to the present list of active medicines, the med- ical practitioner, who is only partially informed of its principles, cannot expect to lend his aid in the intro- duction of new and useful remedies. In every under- taking he will be foiled in his expectations, and nothing less than confusion will be the result of all his efforts. —He may be able even to theorise with advantage on many important subjects, but this will avail him but little, if he is not a practical chemist, in his researches and investigations. CHAPTER II. Remarks on the Modus Operandi of Medicines. Coeval with the radiant beams of medical intelligence that first illumined the minds of our distinguished pro- genitors until the present period, the subject of the Mo- dus Operandi of the articles included in the Materia 24 Medica, has been involved in no inconsiderable degree of obscurity. It has however excited and attracted more of the attention of the first men of rank and stand- ing in the profession, within the last century, than in all the preceding ages; but independent of this circum- stance, as well as the indefatigable exertions that have on various occasions been made, and that very frequent- ly by the mDst erudite and scientifick men, much differ- ence in sentiment at the present time, exists, and little, it is to be feared of a lucid nature, is as yet known. A cor- rect idea on this intricate subject cannot therefore be expected, although efforts have repeatedly been made by the different writers with a view of understanding and subsequently explaining what they have conceived as approximating to the truth.—It is nevertheless to be hoped, from the rapid progess that is daily making in the various departments constituting the healing art, that the day is not far distant when more correct sentiments may be developed in connection with the point under consideration; when it is not unlikely but what the medical community will be placed in the possession of arguments founded upon successful experiments that, will be fully satisfactory in proving whether the present doctrine of the "medication of the blood," is correct or not; a doctrine which appears daily to lose its votaries among the generality of the edu- cated and enlightened. This theory supposes that, medi- cines are conveyed into the sanguiferous system through the medium of the absorbents in the identick state in which they are given, and produce their diversified ef- 25 fects, in consequence of their being more or less gen- erally, circulated throughout this system. Another, and we would suppose a more correct opin- ion relative to the Modus Operandi of medicines at present is advanced, and which is becoming more and more popular daily; is that which imputes the salutary result arising from the application of remediate agents to the impression they induce upon the solids which is transmitted throughout the system, by a sympathetick principle, that without contradiction exists. This opinion appears not only consistent with reason, but is in a considerable degree corroborated by the daily ex- perience of every learned and well educated physician; and as a strong presumptive evidence of its correctness, were there no other circumstances that could be ad- duced in its support, is, that of those who endeavour to sustain the sentiment of the "medication of the blood," avowing, "that the animal body possesses the faculty of transmitting impressions from one part to another," and that, "such a power is essential to the preservation of the living economy." They go a little further than this, when they assert that "the existence of sympathe- tick communications, and their agency in propagating remediate impressions throughout the system, is incon- trovertable." These, as well as many other remarks, could be quoted, which would go still more conclusive- ly to show", that their theory is imperfect, and some- what contradictory; which argues very forcibly, that it is very defective, and if defective, inconsistent with sound 26 principles. So far they coincide in the doctrine of sympathetick communications, although they do not exhibit the slightest disposition .to yield their assent to the position, that all remedies act in this way; but, stiviuously advocate, and strongly enforce it, as an idea entitled to no small share of attention, that many me- dicines produce their salutary effects, through the me- dium of the circulation, in the identick state in which they are admonished; and, with a view to the establish- ment of this hypothesis, detailed accounts of the results of some experimentalists are adduced, in which the various articles that were given, have been detected in the serum of the blood and in the chyle, in their primor- dial state. Experiments of this kind are rather doubt- ful, in as much as they have, in the majority of instances, been attended with contrary results, even in the hands of individuals equally competent to the task. Therefore it may, upon correct principles, be inferred that they are calculated to throw very little light in aid and confirmation of the present received opinion relative to the, "medication of the blood."* *Magendie observes, that "in as much as the lacteal vessels absorb the chyle and carry it into the venous system, it has been assumed that they fulfil the same office for all those substances which are mixed with the aliment, and which, without being di gested, pass into the blood." "Authors," he likewise remarks, "have generally said, for example, that drinks are absorbed with the chyle; but as they have not shewn this to be the case, by a single experiment, we may reject the opinion, on this ground alone, as doubtful. I have endeavoured to satisfy my own mind on this point, by direct experiments on living animals, but I 27 Admitting, however, for a moment, that medicines have been displayed in the chyle, in a few instances on- ly, is not the investigating mind, that has strictly attend- ed to the phenomena of the absorbent system, forcibly have not met with a single instance in which I could detect the drink mixed with the chyle." This same writer further more observes, that "the chyle never assumes the colour of those colouring substances which are mix- ed with the aliment, as some others have asserted." This, he states, M. Halle "ascertained by direct experiments." He moreover says, "I have recently repeated these experiments with precisely the same results. After causing animals to eat indigo, saffron and madder, I have inspected the chyle, but never found that its colour seemed to have any relation to these substances." He was equally unsuccessful in detecting the odour in the chyle of the odoriferous substances that were given. Professor Chapman, of Philadelphia, says "it is at least shown by experiments made by myself many years ago, and since more than once repeated with greater precision on a more extensive scale by the graduates," of the University of Penn- sylxania, "that none of the preparations of iron, of copper, of lead, nor the colouring matter of indigo, of madder, or of rhu- barb can be traced even so far as the chyle." Now, if medi- cines enter into the circulation with the chyle, as some have at- tempted to explain, why can they not be detected in this fluid? And, how can they enter into the blood, through this medium, without their becoming developed, in consequence of the appli- cation of suitable tests, did they really become mixed with it? It is, therefore, strongly to be inferred, as the thoracic duct is the only route by which the chyle passes for the purposes of nu- trition, and as remedies have not been discovered here in their ideatick state, that all the attempts to prove that they enter the blood in this way, must be considered altogether unimportant and unacceptable. 28 struck with the view of these discoveries being the consequence of a deficiency in the performance of the functions of this important system Facts are innume- rable in which this fluid has universally been found to contain the same constituent principles, whether it be the production of animal or vegetable aliment, only differ- ing in the proportions of the same ingredients. Furthermore^ if substances strictly medicinal in their operative qualities, enter the circulating mass, in a per- fect state of undecomposition, why is it, that the mild- est articles with which we are acquainted, when, inject- ed, or thrown into the veins, and consequently become only partially mixed with the blood, invariably produ- ces unpleasant effects, which are not unfrequently at- tended by dangerous, if not fatal consequences? It has been said, that the unpleasant effects thus produced, are altogether to be attributed to the circumstance of the fluMs that have been injected, possessing either an in- creased or diminished temperature, to that of the ani- mal bodies that were made the subjects of experiments; and not on the account of the articles made use of, exert- ing any injurious effects. This advanced sentiment dis- plays more ingenuity than it does that kind of soundness of professional knowledge, which is alone founded up- on practical experience, in connection with a well regula- ted and educated mind. If evidences could be invariably brought forward of an uncontrovertible nature, of the "medication of the blood," in every instance in which articles have been given, with a view of detecting them in the serum of the blood, and in the chyle, we might in- 29 fer, and our inference would doubtless be confirmed, that the same train of happy consequences would be effect- ed, from throwing into the blood, through the medium of the veins, remedies appropriated for 'the removal of some of the most distressing maladies incident to hu- manity, in a much shorter period, than that which is generally allowed for their operation, when exhibited in the ordinary way; but they are productive of the con- sequences that have been noticed heretofore; therefore, the idea of the admission of foreign substances in the circulation, appears to be unfounded. The advocates of the doctrine of sympathy, do not doubt, but what certain substances enter into the circu- lation in a decomposed state, or, after having become subjected to the operative agency of the powers of assi- milation, for instances of this kind sometimes occur. But the substances thus changed cannot operate as re- mediate agents, in consequence of the change which they undergo, completely depriving them o£ their active powers; for it is presumed, that it will be acknowledg- ed, that whenever any particular article has been expo- sed to, and operated on by the digestive function, that it ceases, in a direct ratio, to the change that is produc- ed, to possess the same constituent principles, and of course, to maintain the same original virtues, in as much as it loses its identick qualities, in a direct proportion, as it departs from the primary constituents entering in- to its composition. The question may be asked, why does rhubarb operate on the bowels when it exhibits its colouring principle in the urinary discharges ? It may 30 no doubt be correctly supposed, that its medicinal vir- tues do not exist or reside in the colouring matter, which enters into the composition of this substance. The same argument seems equally plausible, in relation to mad- mer, which discolour the bones of animals which feed on it. The juice of the water-melon which acts as a diuretic, and which imparts its saccharine taste to the urine, no doubt operates in the same way, as all'diuretic medicines; but, I very much doubt, whether the saccha- rine parts which are taken up by the absorbents, after becoming assimilated with the chyle, and subsequent- ly deposited as an excretion in the bladder, is ever con- cerned in the diuretic operation of this delicious and nu- trative fluid; but altogether depends on the same diure- tic power, that exists in an infusion of the seeds of this article, which scarcely has any saccharine taste.* In relation to the articles, it may be remarked, that, if they were entirely operated upon by the digestive or- gans, no remediate effect could be produced, from what has already been observed; but in consequence of their not being generally operated on, the portions remaining ♦That some part of madder, and the water-melon, is acted upon by the digestive powers, appears, from the circumstance of the former being eaten by animals, and the latter being considered an article belonging to the materia aliinentaria; and we might with safety conclude, that rhubarb contains a portion of mucilaginous mat- ter which is susceptible of being operated on by the function of assimilation, with many other vegetable remedies, into the compo- sition of which certain mucilaginous parts enter, which is often unconnected with their operation. 31 unchanged, or undecomposed, of course, are as well fit- ted to produce their effects, as the extract of stramonium, which is divested of the oleaginous portions of the plant from which it is prepared, and a variety of other ex- tracts, which sustain a loss in their preparation, that ex- isted in native combination, previous to the process be- ing adopted, and pursued in, in order to reduce them to - the condition of extracts. Therefore, some articles may have certain inert portions that enter into their composition, that may be susceptible of being acted up- on by the powers of anamalization, that exist independ- ent in their composition, of any medicinal part which they contain, which is, consequently taken up by the absorbents, and conveyed throughout the circulation, and which being subsequently thrown into the secre- tions and excretions, has given rise to the opinion, that their active powers have been received into the circula- tion. This error, in forming conclusions, may be attri- buted in a great measure to the want of a proper discri- minative view, not having been taken by many who have attempted the investigation of the subject. The manner in which the substances that have been taken in- to the circulation, are caused to display themselves in the secretions and excretions, is satisfactorily accounted for, by the distinguished Professor Chapman, who very beautifully, and no doubt equally correct, observes, that "when thrown into the secretions and excretions, being thrown beyond the control of the vital energies, chemi- cal affinities are sometimes again brought into play, by which these substances are, in part, or wholly regene- 32 rated." In this way, it would appear probable, that a reproduction of certain articles, either in part, or altoge- ther takes place; and, it doubtless will be concluded to be an explanation that is entitled to much weight and consideration. It is not improbable but many substances are entirely operated on by the digestive function,- and subsequently enter the sanguiferous system, such as sulphur and some other articles; but, it cannot be supposed, that they can be productive of any remediate effects, after having un- dergone this change; but that the effect that is produc- ed by these remedies, is the result of the impressions that they induce, previous to their being assimilated with the food and entering into the blood, through the medium of the thoracic duct, in conjunction with the chyle* The ingenious and indefatigable Murray, although of the opinion that medicines in some instances are ca- pable of producing an action upon particular organs, by A thought arrests my attention while running over this part of the subject, which is, that the idea of sulphur being changed by the action of the digestive function, seems rather strange. Be this as it may, I would only remark, that it cannot be de- tected, provided it becomes thus altered with any of the chemical agents, in as much as it is very doubtful, whether our present knowledge of the chemical science, imparts to us the necessary de- gree of information, by which any substance, after becoming assi- milated with the food, can be detected. It is therefore, to be with equal plausibility concluded, that some articles strictly medicinal enter the blood in this way, as to suppose to the contrary; but un- der such circumstances, they cannot produce any medicinal ope- ration. 33 being received into the blood, was very far from suppos- ing, that they entering into the circulation in their active state. He observes, that, "there are many substances which appear to be capable of being so far assimilated with the food, as to enter into the composition of the chyle, and are received into the circulating mass." And "being brought, in the course of the circulation, to par- ticular organs, they often excite in them peculiar ac- tions." Now, if remediate agents cannot operate through this medium, after being brought within the in- fluence and control of the digestive function, as has heretofore been explained, Murray's hypothetical sen- timent must exhibit but little correctness, although he is certainly correct in believing in the impossibility of their being admitted into the blood, without this prepa- ratory process being previously completed. Who then is to decide, when one sect of distinguished medical men believe, that remedies enter the circulation without being altered, and thus produce their diversified effects; and the other, supposing that the impressions they make are not affected in this way, but by being previ- ously prepared, as above stated, without which, it would seem impossible that they could reach these parts?— Here it will readily be perceived, that the advocates of the idea of remedies entering the circulation, have adopt- ed two methods in its support, very much at variance with each other, a circumstance that must be calculated to create confusion, and render every attempt abortive3 34 to a full and conclusive elucidation of this obscure and complex notion. In attempting an explanation of the manner in which the various articles included in the Materia Medica, produce the impressions upon the different parts, con- nected with the complicated machinery of the living economy, by a sympathetick principal, much less diffi- culty exists, and only one position can be advanced, in order to come to a conclusive determination of its cor- rectness. That certain parts, sympathise with each other, is proved by the daily experience of every intel- ligent medical practitioner. Thus, an impaired state of the stomach and bowels, not unfrequcntly induces a morbid derangement in the action of the liver, either by producing a torbid state of this viscus, or exciting it to an undue action, which is often removed by correct- ing the primary diseased parts. This, as well as many other circumstances of a similar nature, often occurs, which is attributable in an eminent degree, to the rela- tionship which exists between the different parts of the body, by the nervous communication. Other evidences, equally, and perhaps, more conclu sive, can be advanced in favour of a sympathetick com- munication existing, by which impressions that are on- ly local, as to the part upon which they are originally made, become general, from the existence of this prin- ciple, as intimately connected with animal life. The beneficial results that succeed the application of epispastics, in rousing up the nervous energies, in cases of diseases of a debilitated type, and thereby producing 35 an increased and healthy action throughout the general system, with other external stimulant applications— Opium relieving pain, when applied to the surface, and often removing spasm, both local and general. The application of tobacco to the epigastric region, sudden- ly inducing vomiting, and if continued for any length of time, being succeeded by great prostration of strength, are all attestations of an equivocal nature, strongly cor- roborative of this communicative agency. It is also obvious, that the same susceptibility of im- pression, and of communicating action, results from the administration of medicines by the stomach. "But however difficult it may be to conceive the mode in which this can be communicated by the nerves to dis- tant parts, the fact is established by sufficient evidence. It is evident from the effects of these substances being produced in a shorter time after they have been received into the stomach, than they could be were they to act by being absorbed by the chyle into the circulating, mass. The stimulus of wine or of opium received into the sto- mach will instantly remove lassitude, and increase the vigour of the circulation, or of muscular exertion; or the same substances, in a larger dose, will, with the same celerity, depress all the functions, and exhaust the powers of life. Digitalis given to sufficient extent will speedily reduce, to a great degree, the frequency of the pulse; or a large dose of cinchona, given half an hour be- fore the expected recurrence of the paroxysm of an inter- mittent, will prevent its attack. It has also been prov- ed by experiment, that this communication of action 36 from the stomach to other parts, in a number of cases. does not take place where the brain and spinal marrow have been destroyed, though the heart and vascular sys- tem have been preserved uninjured." It was not my intention to dwell at length upon this sub- ject. The number of pages, that have been allotted for the introduction of the medicinal productions indigenous to the United States, would not admit of entering into a full discussion, and general examination of the correct ness of the theory of the medication of the blood; or, af- ford an ample opportunity of advancing arguments at large in illustration and defence of the hypothesis relative to the existence of a sympathetick communicative agency, whereby remediate impressions are transmitted from any particular part throughout the system. Those, however, that have been made, may at least, be calcu- lated to direct the attention of such as feel, in some mea- sure, interested in its behalf, to a particular investigation of the peculiar way in which medicines effect the grand object of their administration. I, therefore, pass on to make some desultory remarks on the classification of the articles of the Materia Medica, which, according with the present plan that has been adopted, in the arrange- ment of this work, of necessity demands consideration.* *ln relation to the subject of cuticular absorption, which has not been taken into consideration, in noticing the present subject, and which may be conceived to be rather unfounded, it may not be im- proper to make the following remarks. Those who believe in the idea of this effect being produced on the surface, differ in no in- considerable degree from some of the most correct experimental- 37 CHAPTER III. On the Classification of the Articles of the Materia Medica. Different are the classifications that have been pre sentedto the medical publick, by those who have writ- ten on the subject of the Materia Medica. We may, however, reasonably conclude, that all of those classifi- cations possess their advantages. This acknowledge- ment does not consequently go to convey the idea, that ists, who have, by a well directed course of experiments, in a ve- ry satisfactory manner, shown the inconsistency of the sentiment in the support of this obscure subject. It is, however, admitted, that under certain circumstances, that this absorption takes place; but occurrences of this kind are rather rare, and when they take place, there appears but little doubt, but what they may, with great propriety, be ascribed to the sympathetic!* assuming an un- natural action. Let the supporters of this hypothesis, peruse the different authors in favour of both sentiments, and if they are not under the influence of that evil (prejudice) so destructive to the im- provement of the medical science, there is but little doubt, but what they will soon be induced to relinquish their slender opinions for the sake of adopting more rational ideas on this important subject. We are aware, that experiments have been made, with apparent success, that would r.ppear conclusive in the support of cuticular absorption; viewing the whole, however, that have been made in the aggregate, by the supporters of this opinion, in conjunction with those that have been prosecuted by such as rejected it, as unfound- ed, the scale we think, will greatly preponderate in favour of the latter. 38 every classification is perfect in, and of itself; or, that no one possesses advantages over all the others. The most simple form in which the articles of the Materia Medica, have been placed, consists in their al- phabetical arrangement. This plan has very general- ly been adopted in the different dispensatories and phar- macopceas. It is, however, attended with more conve- nience, than practical utility, it conveying no specifick virtue, or communicating no idea of the comparative in- fluence in the operation of medicines. Another arrangement is founded on the sensible qual- ities of medicines, from which it would seem impossi- ble to form a correct idea of their particular powers, in as much as many articles which display the same sensi- ble qualities, operate very differently; for % instance, all bitters are not tonics; all the saccharine substances are not purgatives,*-neither do all plants which possess ana- logous odours, produce the same effects upon the ani- mal economy.* Another arrangement is that which *Cartheuser's classification, which is founded upon the sensible and more evident qualities of medicines, displays more ingenuity, than real utility. It is based upon their "being acid, absorbent. glutinous, astringent, saccharine, acid, aromatic, bitter, emetic," &c. With all its apparent usefulness, it is not capable of being reduced to general application, in as much as there are many substances in which we are unable to detect any sensible qualities which possess considerable medicinal pow- er. Cartheuser, we are informed, was not unfrequently un- der the necessity of deviating from the plan of his classification, in order to found a part of his division on the operative effects of thf remedies he was in the habit of resorting to in practice 39 has reference to the kingdom from which the articles of medicine are selected. A system founded upon this principle, necessarily includes the three classes of ani- mal, of mineral, and of vegetable substances. This clas- sification, is perhaps less important than the one just noticed. Other systems, which have been regulated up- on the supposed effects which medicines produce upon the animal frame, have underwent a change, or been ar- ranged into the number of classes which seems to have accorded with the views of those who have written on the subject of the Materia Medica. For instance, al- though the celebrated Cullen, and the distinguished Darwin, have founded their classifications pretty much upon this principle, the former has noticed twenty-three classes, and the latter only seven; while others have given us different numbers of classes, which seems to have been the result of their own fanciful notions, upon the subject of the idea which they have formed upon the proper number of heads, under which these substan- ces should be arranged. Another division which we shall notice, is that of Vogel, "who has classified his materials according to their effects on the human body. Some are found to have the property of rendering the solid parts of the frame more lax than before, and are hence denominated relaxing medicines; •thers possess a directly contrary power, and are. consequently called indurating medi- cines. A third kind are found to excite inflammation in the part to which they are applied, and are therefore named inflammatory; while a fourth, from being per 40 ceived to increase or diminish the vigour of the body, or what is called the tone of the solids, have acquired the name of tonics in the first instance, and sedatives in the second. Some, again, are conjectured neither re- markably to iHcrease nor diminish the tone of the so- lids; but to perform their office, either by correcting some morbid matter in the body, or by evacuating it; in the former case they are called alterants, in the latter evacuants." This division, it will appear, has its imperfections with many others. The chemical and miscellaneous arrangement of Doctor Kirby, next claims our attention, which consists of eighteen classes, to both of which some objections may be alleged. To the first, in consequence of its entering too deeply into the department of pharmacy, for a mere list of the materials of medicine; and to the second, as evincing a carelessness, or want of method^ izing talent, which we should not have expected, and a total departure from every system whatever. The classification of Murray, which has been al- most regularly pursued throughout the present work, has been adopted under the idea of its display- ing more simplicity of arrangement and general utility, than any of the preceding divisions that have been noticed. And, in order to give % correct view of the foundation of his arrangement, we quote his own obser- vations verbatim, that his reasons may be fully known and understood, for adopting the classification which is peculiar to himself. He remarks, that "the general 41 operation of medicines, as that of exciting to action, ei- ther the whole system or particular organs. This is the primary effect; and to express the agency of the sub- stance producing it, the term of stimulant operation may be employed. And according to the kind and degree of this, different effects are produced, the discrimination of which may afford several important distinctions. Thus, of those stimulants which act on the general system, the operation is extremely different with regard to diffusibility and permanence. Some are highly dif- fusible in their action, or soon after they have been received into the stomach they produce increased vi- gour, which is immediately conspicuous in the force of the circulation, the nervous system, or the different functions of the ;body; while, with regard to others, the same general effect is produced more slowly, and is scarcely perceptable but from their repeated or con- * tinued administration. Those which are diffusible are at the same time usually transient in their operation; while those which produce excitement more slowly are generally more permanent. And by both diversities of action, it is obvious their operation must be produc- tive of very different effects: the high excitement pro- duced by the one is soon followed by proportional languor; the gradual excitement from the other being reduced more slowly, they occasion no such sudden changes, but are fitted to produce more lasting effects. These varieties of action serve accordingly to explain the differences in the power of some of our most im- 6 42 portant medicines, and they afford the distinction of two principle classes, Narcotics and Tonics; the one, so far as their action is understood, being apparently general stimulants, diffusible and transient, the other slow and permanent "From this susceptibility of impression and of com- municating action to other parts, the stomach becomes an organ of the first importance," "since it is that, by means of which medicines are brought to act on the system by the medium of the nerves. It sometimes happens, however, that a similar extention of action may take place from other parts; and hence effects may be obtained from medicines by applying them to the surface of the body similar to those which they produce when they have been recived into the sto- mach." Examples of this kind are to be found in the application of a number of substances to the surface. "Opium applied to the skin, either in the solid form or in that of tincture, often relieves pain and removes spasmodic affections, either general or local. Tobac- co applied to the region of the stomach excites vomit- ing; and garlic applied to the feet acts as a powerful stimulent and raises the strength of the pulse." We are unable to assign a cause for these peculiar properties, to ascertain why the action of some should be extended to the system in general, or wThy that of others should be determined to particular parts," "by the medium of the nerves. But from the possession of such properties it is evident that their powers, as medicines, must be more diversified than if they were 43 merely general stimulants, varying in the degree of their stimulating power; and farther, that distinctions are thus afforded for establishing a variety of classes. "Another cause remains to be pointed out, by which the actions of medicines are diversified. Besides acting as stimulants, they sometimes occasion changes, either mechanical or chemical, in the state of the fluids, or of the simple solids, and these changes are productive of medicinal effects. "This operation of medicines was formerly supposed to be more extensive than it really is. Sufficient weight was not allowed to the important fact, that the actions of external agents on the living body are gov- erned by laws different from those which regulate the actions exerted between the masses of particles of in- animase matter. Hence we find in medical specula- tions, constant attempts to trace the causes of diseases to changes merely mechanical or chemical, to plethora or obstruction, to laxity or rigidity, to the abundance of acid or of alkali, or to the presence of other specific acrimonies still less defined. The explanations of the operations of medicines were of course founded on these notions, and hence the distinctions of inspissants, attenuants, antacids antalkalies, antiseptics, and several others with which the Materia Medica was loaded. "These errors are now nearly exploded. We have learned to consider the living system as endowed with peculiar properties and modes of action, incapable of being explained on mere mechanical or chemical principles; and to regard external powers acting upon 44 it as producing changes conformable to these peculiar properties of life. Yet, still we can sometimes refer a salutary change, either general or partial, to changes mechanical or chemical in the solids or fluids. Thus, symptons arising from irritation may be removed by lubricating the irritated surface; acid in the stomach may be corrected by the exhibition of alkalies or ab- sorbent earths; and urinary concretions may be dissolv- ed, or at least their increase may be prevented, by the use of alkaline remedies. These properties of certain medicines are not perhaps highly important; but they demand attention, and they afford sufficient distinctions for the formation of several classes. "In conformity to these views, the classification of the articles of the Materia Medica, founded on their medicinal operations, may be established. It is only necessary to observe, principally to obviate hasty crit- icism, that in classifications founded on this principle, perfect precision is not to be expected. The science of medicine is still in so imperfect a state, particularly in what regards the relations of external agents to the living body, that both in arranging the classes, and as- sociating the substances which we place under each, we must frequently rest satisfied with remote analogies, which will not always bear a strict examination. This is an imperfection at present unavoidable; it must be either submitted to, or such modes of classification must be altogether rejected; and the question therefore ulti- mately is, not whether these arrangements are unob- jectionable, but whether the advantages belonging to 45 them are not such as to justify their adoption even with their imperfections. "Under the first division of the arrangement, I pro- pose, may be placed those substances which exert a general stimulant operation on the system. Of these there are two sub-divisions, the diffusible and the permanent; the former including the class of narcotics, with which may be associated, as not very remote in their operation, the class of antispasmodics; the latter comprising two classes, tonics and astringents, through these there is a gradual transition from the more highly diffusible stimulants, to those more slow and durable in their action. "A second division comprehends local stimulants,— those, the action of which is determined to particular parts of the system, such are the classes of Emetics, Cathartics, Emmenagogues, Diuretics, Diaphoretics, Expectorants and sialagogues, with which may be as- sociated the classes of Errhines, and of Epispastics, founded on direct local application* "The remaining classes include substances wjiich do not operate according to the laws peculiar to the living system. To one division may be referred those, the effects of which depend on the chemical changes they produce on the fluids or solids; the classes are refrigerants, antacids, lithontriptics, and exchar- *To these I have placed the class of Escharotics; the rea- sons will be hereafter assigned under the head of this, set of remedies. 46 otics." (Which last I have left out.) "To another division belong those, the operation of which is purely mechanical,—Diluents, demulcents, emollients, anthelmintics." The following is the table of classifications accord- ing to this principle of arrangement. A Table of Classification. A. General Stimulants. a. B. Local Stimulants. < Narcotics, Antispasmodics, Tonics, Astringents. ' Emetics, Cathartics, E mmenagogues, Diuretics, Diaphoretics, Expectorants, Sialagogues, Errhines, Epispastics,& Rubifacients, Escharotics, C Antacids, C. Chemical Remedies, < Lithontriptics, ( Refrigerants, ' Diluents, Demulcents, \ Emollients, [ Anthelmintics. D. Mechanical Remedies. The classes of Antacids, Lithontriptics, Diluents, and Emollients, have not been introduced unto the 47 present work, from the circumstance of there not being materials to render it necessary. They have consequently been intentionally omitted. First Division. From the preceding table of classification, it will readily be observed, that the first division of the ar- ticles of the Materia Medica, has been made the sub- ject of a sub-division. The first, including the classes of narcotics and antispasmodics', and the second, those of Tonics and astringents. Independent however of this circumstance, a regular graduation may easily be perceived by the attentive observer, in the general oper- ative agency, or stimulant influence of the articles com- prehended in each of the above classes; the remediate agents strictly considered and transcient as Narcotics and Antispasmodics, being more diffusible than those that have justly received the appellation of Tonics and astringents, which are, it is well known, much less diffusible, but more lasting in the impression they pro- duce upon the human system. 48 CHAPTER IV. Narcotics. * According with the plan that has been adopted, in the arrangement of this work, the class of narcotics is the first that, solicits the attention and consideration of the reader. The various articles thereunto belonging, cannot but be considered, as being of infinite impor- tance, and indispensably necessary in the management of a number of important diseases that are of daily oc- currence. From the peculiar operation of this set of remediate agents, the skilful practitioner is enabled to pursue and prosecute his profession with a certain de- gree of success, which would never be connected with the administration of his remedies, were he altogether *"These are medicines which have a power of diminishing the animal energy, and hence inducing torpor and sleep, during which this energy is usually recruited and restored. They di- minish the sensibility of the part to which they are particularly applied. They, diminish the action and tonic power of its muscular fibres. They produce a peculiar sensation in the sys- tem in general. They diminish the energy of the sensorium. "The changes induced in the system from the primary effects' of narcotics, are, retardation in the blood's motion in the part more immediately acted upon; diminuation of the force of cir- culation in the system in general; diminuation of excitement in the powers of sensation and reflection; and diminuation of vigour in muscular action through the system." 49 deprived of the privilege of their employment. By a proper modification of the doses of them, he may, in the generality of instances, alleviate the most acute and excruciating pain, as well as allay local and general spasm to which the animal economy is subject. He may increase and accelerate the frequency of the pulse, whenever he may deem it productive of salu- tary consequences; * and, indeed, from the circum- stance of its being the characteristick mark of narco- tics to remove the sensibility and irritability of the system, they may be successfully directed in a \ ariety of cases that will be hereafter noticed, as far as our indegenous vegetables of this kind have been advan- tageously exhibited, f Narcotics. Lycopus Virginicus, Bugle-weed. Nicotiana Rustica, Common green Tobacco. Nicotiana Tabacum, Tobacco. *Narcotics, when given in larger doses than what is necessary to produce an increased action of the heart and arteries, lessen the frequency of the pulse, and consequently diminish irrita- tion, hence their utility in many cases of disease which yield in a great measure upon the peculiar impressions which this set of remedies produce. t It may not be improper to remark, in this place, that narco tics are generally contra-indicated, in cases where a preter- naturally languid state is evident: or in diseases accompanied with an evident lethargic disposition; as likewise where much torpor exists in, the living economy. 50 Datura Stramonium, Thorn apple. Datura Tatula, A variety of the Stramonium Solanum Dulcamara, Bitter Sweet. Cicuta Maculata. American Hemlock. Rhus Toxicodendron, Poison Oak. Rhus Radicans. Poison Vine. Rhus Vernix. Poison Sumach. Gaultheria Procumbens, Mountain Tea. Kalmia Latifolia. Broad-leaved Laurel. Kalmia Angustifolia, Dwarf Laurel. Actcea Racemosa, Rich Weed. Humulus Lupulus, Common Hop. Veratrum Viride, American Hellebore. Lycopus Virginicus, Bugle-weed, Diand, Monog, Folio. The present species of Lycopus, may readily be re- cognized by its root, which is perennial and creeping. Its leaves which are rather broad, smooth, lanceolate, deutate and entire at their base; these not unfrequently assuming a purplish aspect with the stem, which is her- bacesus quadrangular, pubescent and generally simple. The flowers, which are white and situated in whorls. Of the medicinal application, consequent and opera- tion of this production, I have no practical experience; I am disposed, however, to think favourably of it from what has been said of its remediate character, by gentle- men who have spoken in recommendation of its utility in certain cases and diseases in which they have direct- 51 ed its exhibition. Its taste is slightly bitter, nauseat- ing, and very offensive. The diseases in which it appears to have been re- sorted to with good effect, are those of Hcemoptisis and incipient Phthisis Pulmonalis, The experience of Doctors Pendleton and Rogers upon its efficacy, is cer- tainly worthy of regard and consideration, and indeed sufficient, to induce the medical practitioners of this country to give it a few trials in.the above affections* Doctor Ansel W. Ives says, "from all the information I have been able to collect relative to its operation, I am of opinion, that it is one of the feeblest vegetable narco- tics, possessing qualities more active than would be in- ferred from its sensible properties, and sufficiently so to lessen the frequency of the pulse, diminish irritation, and allay cough, and "that it partakes of the medicinal character of Digitalis, sanguinaria canadensis, and Spi- gclia Marilandica, but is probably less active than either of them."f The infusion may be given as a common drink, prepared in the proportion of an ounce of the leaves, to a pint of boiling water. Nicotiana Rustica, common green Tobacco, Pent- and, Monog, Folio Siccata. This species of JSicotiana, is also known by the names of ISicotiana Minor, Hyosciamus luteus, and Hyosciamus Niger. It possesses less strength and ac- *Vid. New York Medical and Physical Journal, vol. 1, page 179, |See Paris's Pharmacologia, with his additions and illustrations, vol. 2, page 220, 321. 52 tivity than the Nicotiana Tabacvm, and from its gentle operation, may reasonably be concluded to be a safer remedy in the generality of instances, in which this ar- ticle may be indicated. Nicotiana Tabacum* Tobacco Pent, Monog, Folia Siccata. Among the narcotic poisons, there is perhaps no ar- ticle that is used with paore impunity, than the Nicoti- ana Tabacum. As a luxury it is more particularly known to the inhabitants of the various sections of the habitable globe, and although its use in the common practices of snuffing, smoking, and chewing, have become so universal, without its producing any appa- rent inconvenience, it nevertheless, induces in persons that have not become familiarized to its poisonous and deleterious influence, all the unpleasant and distressing train of symptoms which characterises this class of re- medies. Several varieties of the present species of tobacco, are cultivated in this country for home consumption, as well as for exportation, all of which are well known to pos- sess a strong narcotic foetid odour, and a slight bitter accompanied with an acid burning taste. When taken internally in an over dose, it speedily induces vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and lessening in an eminent degree the arterial action, which is accompanied by a corres- ponding proportion of general muscular relaxation.__ *Petitm is the Brazilian name. 53 The circumstance ot the continued use of tobacco, caus- ing it to lose its effect upon the human system, perhaps would scarcely be credited, did not daily experience en- able us to present hundreds of cases of the kind, in at- testation of the assertion. For it is almost impossible to cast our eyes around us in any of the circles in life, but what we discover either a tobacco chewer, a snuffer, or a smoker. Tobacco does not possess this peculiarity alone, by which the animal economy is ena- bled to become accustomed to its baneful influence, in as much as the system accommodates itself to the ope- ration of narcotics generally, and more easily than any other set of remediate agents. This remarkable fact, can only, however, be satisfactorily accounted for upon the principle of that surprising law, which controls and regulates the complicated machinery of man, that ena- bles the system to bear with impunity, whatever would in an unaccustomed state, be productive of most fatal effects* *It is supposed, that the custom of smoking this article, was first introduced into England by Sir Walter Raleigh, immediately on his return from this country; and James the First, wrote an invective de- clamation against it, under the title of "A Counterblaste to Tobac- co"; which it may not be improper here to notice, particularly as it evinces in a very great degree,the strong prejudice that he entertain- ed in relation to its use. In this production, he observes, that "it is a custome loathsome to the eye, hateful to the nose, harmful to the braine, dangerous to the lungs, and the black stinking fume thereof, nearest resembling the horrid stigian smoake of the pit that is bot- tomless." In 1664, Pope Urban, the Seventh, published a decree, 54 In the variety of forms in which this substance may be exhibited, it cannot but be acknowledged a remedy of no inferior activity; and in the hands of the prudent physician, may undoubtedly be prescribed with advan- tage. It is, however, seldom resorted to in practice, unless it is under such circumstances as require the most prompt and effectual relief. The infusion, and sometimes the smoke, is consequently injected into the rectum, with a view to produce the necessary muscular relaxation, to enable the operator to reduce with the more facility, the protruded parts in the incarcerated hernia. Its use in this way is not unfrequently attend- ed with the happiest results. The injection of the smoke is certainly the least objectional, and upon the whole, is attended with less serious consequences, when carelessly administered. Its beneficial effects, when exhibited in either of the above forms, and employed in the manner just described, have been witnessed in re- moving constipation, depending on a constricted state of the intestinal canal.* There is another form in which tobacco is employed, which consists, in applying the leaves, that have been which went to excommunicate every individual that took snuff in the church. In the year 1690, Pope Innocent, the Twelfth, ap- pears to have had strong objections to its use likewise, for he had every person turned out of the church of St. Peter at Rome, that were found taking of snuff or chewing of tobacco. Many other sin- gular regulations were entered into about this period. *From the analysis that has been made of tobacco, it appears to rontain, mucilage, albumen, gluten, extractive, a bitter principle, 55 previously bruised and moisened with vinegar to the abdominal region. The worthy Professor, B. S. Bar- ton, who has undoubtedly viewed its efficacy in this way, observes, "that in consequence of this application, worms are often discharged after powerful anthelmin- tics have been exhibited in vain." This application* will also be found to excite emesis, when the most prompt emetics have proved ineffectual, and is conse- quently used, when large doses of laudanum have been taken, with the intention of destroying life. The ointment prepared from the leaves, is said to have been found useful in Psora, Tinea Capitis, and in other cutaneous affections. Much care and attention should be exercised in its use, from the great prostration of strength that even succeeds it external application. Datura Stramonium* Thorn Apple, Pent. Monogy- nia, Herba el Semina. This plant may be seen growing in the summer months, irfalmost every section of the United States— It is an inhabitant generally of barns, dunghills, and other fertile spots, and is recognized by the common and local appellations of James-town weed, Stink-weed, an essential oil, nitrate of potass, and a peculiar principle that has been named Nicotin, in which its active properties are supposed to reside. The oil of tobacco also possesses much activity. This as well as the Nicotin, is capable of producing fatal consequences. *This is the Solanum Maniacum of Dioscorides; the Stramoni- um Spinosum of Gerard; and the Solanum FcetidumofBaupin. 5b Henbane, &c. The Stramonium is justly considered as ranking with the more efficient narcotic poisons; and instances very frequently occur among children and others, of an alarming nature, from swallowing of the leaves, flowers or seed. The cases of three British soldiers are recorded, who it appears ate of it, for the CJwnopodium Album, one of which it is said, became furious and ran about like a madman; a second is represented to have died of Tetanus; but the fate of the third person was not remembered. A very singular effect, as having been produced by this plant, upon a party of British soldiers, is related by Be- verly in his history of Virginia. These soldiers who ate of it for boiled greens, exhibited a most odd train of gesticulations. "One," says he, "would blow up a fea- ther in the air, another would dart straws at it with much fury, and another stark naked, was sitting up in a corner like a monkey, grinning and making mouths at them; a fourth would fondly kiss and paw his compa- nions, and sneer in their faces, with a countenance more antic than any Dutch droll. In this frantic condition they were confined, least they should in their folly, de- stroy themselves, though it was observed, that their ac- tions were full of innocence and good nature. In- deed, they were not" he further observes, "very clean- ly, for they would have wallowed in their own excre- ments if they had not have been prevented. A thou- sand such simple tricks they played, and after eleven 51 days, returned to themselves again, not remembering any thing which had passed." From the experiments that I have made upon the stramonium, I am strongly induced to believe, that its active principle cannot be destroyed by long boiling; and that the essential oil possesses none of the deleteri- ous powers that reside in the other parts of the plant. A few years ago, I placed in an alembick, a large por- tion of the recent plant, upon which I poured a suffi- cient quantity of diluted alcohol, to enable me to pro- cure, by distillation, one gallon of the spirits of wine in a highly saturated state, with its volatile principle. This possessed a highly offensive and mephetic odour, and a disagreeable nauseous taste. Of this prepara- tion I took several times, as large a quantity as half an ounce, having however, previously commenced with/a very small portion, without its affecting my pulse in the least sensible manner, or of its producing in the most tri- fling degree, any unpleasant feeling whatever. The ex-, tract that was prepared from the plant, alter its having been submitted to the above process, as well as the plant itself, possessed as much activity, as that which had not been made the subject of investigation * But to revert more particularly to the operative qual- *The chemical composition of Stramonium, is that of gum, re- sin, carbonate of amonia; and according to Mr. Brande, an alka- line element of activity, which has been named Daturia, which exists in native combination with malic acid. 8 58 ities of the Datura Stramonium, on the human system, and the diseases in which it appears to have been suc- cessfully employed, it may, I conceive with great pro- priety be remarked, that but few of our indigenous ve- getable will be found, upon strict examination, to be better adapted to a greater variety of forms of diseases, in which the administration of Narcotics are indicated. In some affections, it cannot but be preferred to opium, particularly in Chronick Rheumatism, Sciatica and Tic Doloreux. Baron Storck, of Vienna, is justly entitled to the ho- nour of having first introduced this article into practice. He recommended its use in Mania,Epilepsy, convulsive, and other affections. Many physicians have subse- quently directed its internal exhibition in similar diseas- es, with benefit. It has however proved ineffectual in the hands of some others; but in those cases its failure may not have been more frequent than that which at times succeeds the administration of the more potent re- medies included in the Materia Medica. Alexander Marcet, M. D. Physician of Guy's Hos- pital, London, has communicated his experience of the efficacy of the Stramonium*. From his observations in relation to its effects, it appears, that it had relieved acute pains of different kinds, more completely than any other remediate agent included in the class of narcotics. The following are the cases in which he gave it with the success that accompanied its administration. "In * Vid. Medico—Chirurgical Translations, Volume 7, for 1826. 59 four cases of Sciatica, decided benefit was obtained.— The efficacy of the medicine was still more strongly marked in two cases of Sciatica combined with syphi- litic pains. It failed in two cases of diseased hip-joint. It produced considerable relief of pain in a case of sup- posed disease of the spine, followed by paraplegia; and likewise in one of cancer of the breast. It al- layed materially the pain occasioned by an acute ute- rine disease. It was of great and repeated utility in a case of Tic Doloreux, its utility in a second case of the same description was very doubtful, and in a third it entirely failed." Several writers have subsequently spoken favourably of the success that attended the use of this article in Sciatica, Tic Doloureux, &.c. Doctor Eberle remarks, that he has "used it in three cases of Sciatica within a year past, and in every instance with the most decided advantage."! The Doctor has also used it with advantage, in a case of Tic Doloureux, that had resisted a variety of the usual remedies, under the direction of another phy- sician. In relation to this case, he says, that he "pre- scribed the extract of Stramonium, a grain of which was to be taken every four hours; she commenced with this in the evening; towards the morning she had a considerable interval of comparative ease, and slept some. She continued the medicine during the suc- ceeding day, and experienced less pain than she had ^Materia Medica and Therapeutics, vol. 2, page 82. GO done for eight days before. After the fourth dose was takenj she felt some vertigo; she was now directed to take the medicine only every six hours. During the second night she slept a good deal, and in the morning was almost entirely free from pain. The medicine was continued; on the third night, she was not disturbed by her complaint, and continued well."* This remedy has also been employed by Professor Bigelow, "in a case of Tic Doloureux of long stand- ing," in which he gave it "in as large doses as the sto- mach would bear," and in which it "afforded decided relief." He also remarks, that "several practitioners have spoken to me of its efficacy in this formidable dis- ease."! From my own experience, I am unable to say any thing of a satisfactory nature on the subject of its utility in this distressing malady. 1 have only given it in one case, in which it proved altogether unsuccessful. It appears however, to be adapted more particularly to the treatment of local affections unattended and unac- companied with general febrile excitement, under which circumstance, it is undoubtedly admirably calculated to allay morbid irritation. As a medicine of great utility, the stramonium has proved itself equally competent to the removal of epilep- sy. It appears to have been used in "not less than a dozen cases of this disease," by Doctor E. Ives, of New Haven, "in most of which with perfect success. Some * American Medical Recorder, vol. 5, page 658. t American Medical Botany, vol. 1, page 23. 61 of these were adults, and from their long duration, were apparently of the most hopeless kind. "* In chronick rheumatism, the Datura Stramonium, may justly be ranked among the more prompt and effi- cient articles of the Materia Medica, that have general- ly been resorted to for its removal. In this disease, I believe, it is less liable to disappoint, the expecta- tions of the practitioner, than perhaps in any other; I have directed its use both internally and externally, in a number of cases, that have from time to time, claimed my professional consideration, with the happiest and most unequivocal success. For a communication upon which subject, I refer the reader to the American Medi- cal Recorder. Doctor Eberle supposes it to be "the most effica- cious remedy we possess," in rheumatic cases, "which arc attended by an irritable, quick, but weak pulse, with swelled joints, and unattended by any great pain, unless on being moved."! The Stramonium has also been resorted to, as an ex- ternal application, in the form of an ointment and tinc- ture, in a number of cases of a local nature. The for- mer preparation, has been recommended in burns, hoemorrhoids, psora, and other cutaneous affections, and it is said with good effects. *Vid. Paris's Pharmacolagia, with additions and illustrations by Ansel W. Ives, M. D, Vol. 2, page 130. tMat. Medica and Therapeutics. 62 The leaves and root when smoked, have been found useful in Asthma; but perhaps, they possess no advan- tage over tobacco, as a remedy in this way. The preparations that are generally made use of are the powdered leaves and seed, the inspisated expressed juice of the plant, and extract. The dose of the three former is, a grain twice a day; and of the latter, from an eighth to a quarter of a grain, to be increased gradu- ally. The extract should be prepared m the following man- ner. Fresh seed in powder, one pound; to be boiled in three gallons of water down to one; the decoction is then to be strained. The powdered seed is again to be boiled in a gallon more of fresh water, down to two quarts, and strained as beforehand mixed with the for- mer decoction, which is to stand twelve for hours, and is then to be drawn off free from fecula and oil, and evapo- rated to a proper consistence; the latter part of the eva- poration to be performed in the water bath. The quan- tity obtained, is from an ounce and a half to two ounces of extract. There are two modes of preparing the ex- tract, by filtering the detoction, and by dissolving the ex- tract. The extract prepared in the above manner, is considerably more powerful, than it is when prepared in the common way. Datura Tatula. This plant, which is only a variety of the Stramo- nium, may be known by its pale green coloured stem, C3 and its flowers, which are white. It is generally found growing with the Datura Stramonium, but seldom in as great abundanee. It possesses all the active and useful properties of this plant, and may be used in the diseases in which it has been so highly recommended. The dose is the same. Solanum Dulcamara, Bitter Sweet, Pent. Monog, Stipites, Autumno Colkctai. This plant, which is often called Woody Night- shade, is indigenous to this country in common with Europe. To this genus belong the common Potatoe, the Black Nightshade, the Jerusalem Cherry, the Tomato and the Egg Plant. The Carolla, being rotate, is the cause of their being intimately united, sufficiently so, to consti- tute them species of the same genus. It is, however, more of a climbing plant than any of the other species. The leaves are "petioled, ovate,, acute, entire furnished at the base with two appendages, which give them some- what of a hastate form." The lower and superior leaves being not unfrequently without these appendages. This article possesses in some degree, diuretic pow- ers. It has, however, been introduced into the present class from the circumstance of its having been noticed as possessing narcotic properties by Chapman, Eberle, and others. The stipites or younger branches, are the parts that are generally employed for medicinal purposes. These 64 should be collected in the fall, when the leaves are about falling off. The diseases in which the Didcamara is recommend- ed by different writers, are very numerous. Bergius confined its use principally to the treatment of rheuma- tism, retentio mensium, et lochiorum. Cullen speaks of its good effects in the cure of rheumatism, that he had witnessed at times, to have resulted from its admin- istration; but it sometimes proved rather unsuccessful, which circumstance may justly be attributed to the sea- son of theyear in which it was procured, as well as in some measure, to the soil in which it grew. In the various forms in which this remedy has been exhibited, it cannot but be supposed an article of no in- ferior degree actively, particularly in cutaneous affec- tions, in which it is more extensively used than in any other disease by modern practitioners. Willan and Bateman, both speak favourably of it, especially in Lepra. The experience of several physicians, have subsequently went to establish the correctness of their observations in relation to its efficacy in this unpleas- ant malady. Professor Bigelow states, that he has "em- ployed the Bitter Sweet, both in substance and decoc- tion, in a number of cutaneous affections " He further- more remarks, that "it appears to be a valuable auxilL ary to mercury in the treatment of syphilitic eruptions;" and that he has "known herpetic eruptions to yield to its internal and external use."* *Vid. American Medical Botany, Vol. 1, part 2, page 174. 65 This article is generally prescribed in strong infu sion, or decoction, of which the dose is, from an ounce to an ounce and a half, frequently repeated, and gradu- ally increased until between a pint and a quart is con- sumed daily, either of which may be used as an external application as a wash. I know nothing of its efficacy from experience, but from the highly respectable authorities that have spoken favourably of its remediate operation, I am in- duced to conceive it a remedy, justly meriting the at- tention of the members of the profession. Cicuta Maculata, American Hemlock, Penland, Digy- nia, Folio Siccata et Semina. This plant, which is common in many parts of the United States, inhabits low marshy situations, and may be found growing in the vicinity of Creeks, Rivu- lets, &c. The present article, not having been introduced into the works of many of the late writers, who have inclu- ded some of our most active plants, has induced me to give the following description of its botanical character, which has been given by Professor Bigelow in his Medical Botany; and which I conceive as exhibiting in a very striking manner, the various parts of which this production is composed. "The stem is smooth, branched at top, hollow, joint- ed, striated, and commonly of a purple colour, except when the plant grows in the shade, in which case 9 66 it is green. The leaves are compound, the largest being about three times pinnate, the uppermost only ternate. Most of the petioles are furnished with long obtuse stipules, which clasp the stem with their base. Leafets oblong, acuminate, serrate, the serratures very acute or mucronated. The veins end in the notches, and not at the points of the serratures. The flowers grow in umbels of a middling size, without a general involucre The partial umbels are furnished with in- volucres of very short, narrow, acute leafets. The distinctness or separation of these umbels characterize this plant at a distance among other plants of its kind, whose umbels are more crowded. Calix of fine very minute segiments; Petals fine, white, obovate, with in- flected points." The root as well as every other part of this plant, possesses medicinal properties, very analogous to the Cicuta* or Conium Maculatum of Linnaeus, but in a greater degree. With respect to the effects that suc- ceed its use in large doses, they are similar to those of some of the other poisonous substances; such as nausea, vomiting, vertigo, cardialgia, anxiety, convulsions, coma and death. The root is represented to have been dug up and eaten by children, for the sweet flag root in several instances, in which it was followed by the most alarming symptoms, and sometimes even by death. From the variety of affections in which the Conium Maculatum has been successfully employed, and from the circumstance of the great similarity that exists be- tween this and the Cicuta Maculata, it may be reason 67 ably conjectured to be equally adapted to the same cases and diseases with the former article. Doctor Alexander Byrenheidt, member of the Medi- cal and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland, shew me a large quantity of it that he had procured himself, a con- siderable portion of which, he stated he had made use of in several cases in which he had previously prescri- bed the Conium Maculatum, and with equally benefi- cial and salutary results. He indeed gave it the prefer- ence. As a remedy possessing much activity, it is un- doubtedly worthy of a few trials, writh a view to the es- tablishment of its utility in such cases in which it may be calculated to afford relief. The dose is rather smaller than that of the Conium Maculatum. It should be carefully employed for the reasons above assigned. The proper time for gathering the plant, is when the seed have nearly arrived at maturity. It should be care- fully dried in the shade. Rhus Toxicodendron, Poison Oak, Pentand, Trigynia, Folia. This shrub is common to almost every part of the United States, and is recognized by the appellations of Swamp Sumach, Poison Wood, &c. It is a low shrubby stalk, the leaves of which are trifoliate, lobate, entire, smooth, and occasionally heart shaped The flowers, which are of an herbaceous colour, are small. 68 in loose panicles, and emanate from the sides of the foot stalks' In relation to the success with which this article may be administered, in the diseases in Which narcotics are recommended, but little of a satisfactory nature can at present be said It has not of late attracted a sufficient degree of notice, to confirm its character as a remediate application even in any one disease. It is seldom made use of by our practitioners, with a view to the alleviation or removal of any affection. From.what has been said, it appears, that Doctor Alderson, of Hull, in England, is the gentleman to which thejionour is due, of having first used it. This was, however, done in imitation of the experiments of M. Fresnoi, who had previously made use of the Rhus Radicans, Doctor Alderson gave it in four cases, it is stated, of paralysis, in the dose of half a grain or a grain, tfrree times a day; and all his patients recovered to a certain degree, the use of, their limbs.— The first symptom of amendment, was that of an un- pleasant sensation of prickling in the affected parts! In the hands of some others, it was found necessary to discontinue its use from this circumstance. The prick- ling sensation that seems to be a constant attendant on its exhibition, is certainly a great objection to its use, and more particularly, when a number of other reme- dies, equally as efficacious in this distressing malady, may be prescribed without their being accompanied with this unpleasant feeling—Upon the whole, I con- ceive it might be ve/y readily dispensed with altogether, in as much as the addition of new remedies to the 69 Materia Medica of this kind, will never enrich it in matter worthy of attention. A tincture of the Rhus Toxicodendron, has been di- rected in the dose of from four to six drops in spasmo- dic affections of the stomach and bowels. Of its opera- tion in this way, I know nothing. Rhus Radicans, Poison Vine. Pent Trigy Folia. The present species of Rhus, which is very analo- gous in its medicinal character, to the one just noticed, supports itself oh the bodies with which it comes into contact. From this circumstance, it may general- ly be recognized from the other articles belonging to this genus. In relation to its sensible and chemical character, Professor Bigelow says, "the leaves and bark are as- tringent to the taste, which quality appears to be occa- sioned by gallic acid, rather than tannin." Hcfurther- more observes, "the infusion and decoction become black on the addition of salts of iron, but discover hardly any sensibility to gelatin." The article under consideration has not been used often enough in practice, to warrant its confirmation as a remedy, of either much utility or advantage. It has, however, been employed perhaps more frequently by M Fresnoi, than any other gentleman His reports in relation to its exhibition, under his direction, are rather favourable. The affections in which he gave it, were those of paralysis and herpetic eruptions. It may, 1 70 think, justly be considered, not only an uncertain, but rather a dangerous remedy. It may be given in half grain doses of the powdered leaves, and the necessary attention should also be paid to its effects, least any unpleasant consequences should result from its administration. Rhus Vernix, Poison Sumach, Pent, Trig, Folia, The Rhus Vernix, is considered more poisonous than any of the species belonging to the genus Rhus As a narcotic it has been introduced into the present class, although it has never been exhibited, with a view to the alleviation of the diseases incident to humanity. Fu- ture experiments may develope its true character; and it may perhaps be found to possess some valuable prop- erty as a remedy in diseases. Gaultheria Procumbens, Mountain Tea* Decandria, Monog, Folia. In consequence of the anodyne properties that this creeping plant possesses, it has been introduced into this class of remediate agents. It is an inhabitant of shady situations, and delights in a poor and sandy soil. It is an evergreen plant, and consequently, with the different vegetables of the kind, appears to admit of slow perspiration, and rapid absorption; by which means it obtains from the dews and rains, the necessary *It is also known b}~ the common and local appellation of Groose-berry, Berried-tea, Spice-berry, Tea-berry, Ground-Ivy, Winter-green, Coale-berry, Patridge-berry, &c. 71 supply of nutriment to faciliate its growth; that the majority of the articles comprised in tne vegetable kingdom, receive through the medium of their roots. This is the case also with the chimaphila umbellata, and maculata, and many others. Its taste is somwhat aromatic and sweet, accompa- nied with a very great degree of astringency. Both its sensible and active properties, reside in the plant and the volatile oil it contains. The peasantry in some places, are in the habit of preparing an infusion of the leaves, which is drank of as tea, in order to revive them after having undergone considerable corpo- real exertion. The berries may be eaten with impunity, although few persons suppose them to be either escu- lent or delicious.* Kalmia Latifolia, Broad leaved Laurel. Decand, Mo- nog, Folia. This shrub, which is common in many parts of the United States, is recognized also by the name of Calico- tree. It is supposed to contain the properties that cha- racterize those agents, that are properly (lenominated Narcotics. The leaves are destructive to certain ani- mals. These have been recommended in intermittents, and in Tinea Capitis; but I am inclined to conclude them to be incompetent to the removal of either of these affections. The character of this shrub in an operative *The introduction of the Gaultheria Procumbus into this class, has been done with a view ol inviting the attention of the members of the profession to the consideration of its further character as a plant possessing in some degree medicinal virtues. 12 point of consideration, I think, should be viewed as a very great objection to its use in ordinary cases, and particularly when the Materia Medica presents a num- ber of articles that are more adequate to the removal of the diseases in which its internal exhibition has per- haps, in a few instances only, proved beneficial. A de- coction and ointment prepared from the leaves, is re- ported to have been successfully employed in cutane- ous affections, by washing the affected parts, or by ap- plying the unguent. Care should, however, be taken, that the quantum made use of should not be in such proportions as to produce vertigo, or any other unpleas- ant symptom. Kalmia Augustifolia, Dwarf-laurel, Decand Monog Folia. This species of Kalmia agrees in its medicinal virtues with the one just noticed; and will be found applicable to the same cases of diseases. Actaed Racemosa, Rich-weed,* Polyand Monog, Folia. In consequence of this plant having quite lately claim- ed the attention of the medical publick, on the account of its narcotic operation, I have included it in the pre- sent list of remedies. From my own experience of its utility, which is very limited, I am not able to add any thing in support of its virtues in this way. Doctor T. S. Gardner, who has communicated the result of his ex- *It is also called Black Snake-roo^, Rattile-weed, Squaw-root, &c. perience, (through the medium of the Medical Record- er, vol. 6, page 610,) in relation to its efikacy in Phthisis Pulmonalis, observes, "I can ascribe the degree of health, which I enjoy at present, to nothing but the use of this medicine, aided by suitable regimen;" and as to the ef- fect it produces on the human system, as an article of the Materia Medica, he says, "when exhibited in a full dose, it prostrates in a distressing degree, producing nausea, vertigo, pains of the extremities, anxiety, dilita- tion of pupil, quick small pulse, with universal restless- ness and uneasiness." From the happy result of its use in his own case, as also one of the same disease, which claimed his attention, the members of the profession have, I think, a sufficient reason to in- duce them to prosecute the necessary experiments, in order to confirm, if possible, the character that has lately been bestowed on it, as an article of some value in Phthisis Pulmonalis. It is a plant, that may be seen in almost every section of our country, in which a rich and prolifick soil is found. As a common drink, an ounce of the leaves infused in a pint of boiling water, will be of a sufficient strength. Humulus Lupulus, Common Hop, Dioecia, Pen* tandria, Stroboli Siccati. The hop justly ranks among the remedies that be- long to the class of narcotics. And although it is em- ployed in great quantities as a principle ingredient "m 10 74 malt liquors; it maybe exhibited with good effects as a medicine. The flowers are aromatic, bitter and as- tringent: an infusion of which I have found useful in the pains which not unfrequcntly succeed parturition; in the dose of a teacupful every hour until relief is afforded. Professor Chapman observes, that "as an anodyne, it may be substituted for opium, when the latter, from idiosyncrasy or other causes does not suit the case."* It is reported to have been used with ad- vantage in cases of articular rheumatism, by Dr. Ma- ton, who gave it in the form of tincture and extract. Under his direction it seems to have produced rather a constipating effect on the bowels. He is disposed to conclude the pulse is lessened in point of frequency and increased in firmness by its administration. From the experiments of Dr. De Roches, it produced sleep in rheumatic, syphilitic and pectoral affections. The hop may be given in the form of infusion, tincture, and substance, without being very nice as to the pre- cise quantity taken as a dose. It will be noticed hereafter under the class of tonics. Veratrum Viride, American Hellebore, Polygam. Mouaida, Radix. The Veratrum Viride, is an inhabitant exclusively of swamps and meadows. It may readily be distin- * Vid,—Elements of Therapeutics and Materia Medica, Vol. 2--page 231. 75 guished from every other plant by its inferior leaves being remarkably large, from six to seven inches in length: these are oval, accuminate, pubescent, and strongly plaited and nerved; the lower part of the edges of which meet around the stem. From the experiments that have been made, with a view of discovering its medicinal properties, it has been concluded, and no doubt very correctly, to be nearly allied to the Veratrum Album, which grows spontaneously in Switzerland and the mountainous parts of Germany. The root, when taken in the dose of from four to six grains, and particularly if it be increased, appears to affect the functions of the brain and nervous system in an eminent degree; pro- ducing vertigo, affecting vision, and likewise, in a considerable measure a diminution of the vital pow- ers; which is accompanied by a proportionate relaxa- tion of the muscular system; consequently the happy effects that have succeeded the exhibition of this ar- ticle is altogether attributable to the narcotic power it displays. This plant, with many others, are hardly known by physicians, in as much as the medical botany of this country is unfortunately much neglected. Indeed some of our most valuable remediate vegetables are seldom employed by, perhaps, more than three or four practitioners in a hundred. Professor Bigdow, to whom the medical public is justly indebted for the zeal he has exhibited in the improvement of this im- portant branch of professional knowledge; and who appears to have paid no inconsiderable attention to 76 its operative agency, in conjunction writh its applica tion to diseases, says he found it useful in arresting "the paroxyoms of gout, and" in giving "relief in some unyielding cases of protracted rheumatism." An ointment, prepared by simmering the contused root in lard, is stated to have been productive of some good effects as an external application in Tinea Cap- itis and other cutaneous affections. From my own experience, I am unable to say any thing in attestation of its utility, having never used it. But there is no doubt, from the activity it possesses, but what its true character, when fully developed, will be found to be such as to entitle it to a conspicuous place in tho Materia Medica. CHAPTER V. Antispasmodics. Previous to noticing the few of our native plants, that properly belong to this class, I would remark, that no inconsiderable difficulty seems to exist in rela- tion to forming a correct idea of their modus operandi. The different writers on the Materia Medica have thrown but little light on this subject, in conse- quence of which circumstance, the Medical public have not as yet been made acquainted with what may hereafter appear to be not only more plausible, but cor- 77 rect. This will, however, depend much upon the zeal and industry of subsequent cultivators of our profes- sion. The cause that gives rise to the difficulty, may, in a great measure, be attributed to this set of reme- dies not being as adequate to the removal of spasm, under the various circumstances in which it may oc- cur, as tonics are to restore tone, and invigorate, either the stomach, or the general system, when attacked with debility. It is a well known fact, which must have attracted the attention of every intelligent physician, that spasm is connected with various states of the system: and also, that when it is induced by certain causes, its removal must be attempted by re- sorting to other remedies, quite separate and distinct from antispasmodics in their operation. For instance, do we not unfrequently see cases of hysteria connected with a full habit, in which the use of the lancet, car- ried to a considerable extent, affords the most prompt and permanent relief; particularly when succeeded by the use of cathartics.—In such cases as this, the in- utility of antispasmodics are not only evident; but their administration is altogether contra-indicated. And so it is in all cases in which spasm occurs, re- quiring depletion for its removal. Nevertheless, un- der the circumstances just mentioned, the articles be- longing to this class of remediate agents, may some- times be successfully employed after the pulse has been lessened and the system reduced to a state in which their use will be admissible. This is, how- ever, not often necessary, for copious venesection, in 78 conjunction with other means calculated to produce analogous effects, will, in a generality of cases, be sufficient. Again, how often is the physician called to visit and prescribe, in cases of children who labour under the most violent and distressing spasmodic affection of almost every muscle of the body, which may generally be removed by the use of suitable cathartic medicines, in consequence of its depending on, and being excited, by a collection of vitiated secretions contained in the intestinal canal. Spasm frequently exists in an opposite state of the system, likewise I mean debility. The practice that should be adopted, with a view to its removal, in this case, and which will be found the most successful in the generality of instances, is that which consists in the use of tonics in conjunction with stimulants. It is true, that antispasmodics will here often afford temporary relief; but they may be administered con- tinually without imparting that tone, that is essentially necessary to overcome it.—Hence the propriety of tonics; and the folly of resorting to antispasmodic remediate agents, A number of cases might be adduced in attestation of the uselessness of antispasmodics; and indeed cases in which their use would be attended by the most seri- ous consequences. But this circumstance is only attri- butable to an over excitement, in connexion with a full habit; or rather where spasm is induced by plethoria; a collection of vitiated secretions in the intestinal ca- 79 nal, or when it is the consequence of an impaired di gestive function, or gastric, irritation. In this latter case, an emetic may be found beneficial, succeeded by tonic remedies. These observations are not intended to convey an idea, that there are no cases in which this class of medicines may be used with advantage; but merely to prove that they are not competent to over- come spasm in every instance in which it occurs; in which respect they differ from tonics, that may be used as a general rule in every case of debility. They are also made to show, the probability of the want of a correct knowledge of their modus operandi depending in a great measure on these facts. But to proceed a little further: Independent, however, of what has been said, there are circumstances in which these medicines are the only ones that may be exhibited; and in which they will be found fully adequate, not only to alleviate, but competent to the complete removal of spasm, without being given in conjunction with any other article. The cases to which I allude, are such as are produced by a peculiar state of the nervous system, and unconnected with any of the preceding causes. But to proceed, in relation to the modus operandi of this set of remedies; I would ob- serve, that it is highly probable, that their beneficial ef- fects are produced, in removing either local or general spasm, by an impression they induce on the nervous sys- tem,-which, no doubt, influences and controls, in an emi- nent degree, the functions of the muscular system. And it would appear very reasonable, that whenever a spas- modic action of the muscles, of a part, or of the whole bi) body, become evident, that it is altogether to be ascribed to some derangement in the nerves that supply the part concerned in the spasm. Hence we may infer, that antispasmodics do good by tranquilizing the nervous system, and consequently removing irregular muscular contraction. But the great difficulty consists in know- ing how this is accomplished, or what kind of impres- sion is made upon the nerves by these medicines. This part of the subject is rather obscure, and an extensive opportunity is consequently afforded, for research and discovery. However, although we can only form an imperfect idea of the operation of antispasmodics, it does not pre- vent us from making a proper application of them. For in a practical point of consideration, it is enough to know when their administration is indicated.* *A certain writer has given the following description of the effects which succeed the use of this set ofrem edies—-They can- not, however, it is presumed, "counteract and remove" the vari- ous causes upon which irregular contractions depend. This, will no doubt appear correct from what has been already observed, upon the subject of the causes which frequently induce irregular muscular action, as well as the plans which should necessarily be adopted for their removal.—He remarks, "By these are meant, whatever has a power of allaying inordinate motions in the system, particularly those involuntary contractions which take place in muscles naturally subject to the command of the will; they coun- teract and remove various causes exciting contractions; they di- minish the influence of the nervous energy in the parts spasmod- ically affected. The changes induced in the system, from the primary effects of antispasmodics, arc, the restoration of the proper balance of the nervous energy in different parts of the 91 The following are the articles belonging to this class. It is much to be regretted, that our present knowledge does not acquaint us with a more respectable list. Antispasmodics. Symplocarpus Foetida—Skunk Cabbage. Symplocarpus Angustispatha—Narrow Spathed Skunk Cabbage. Chenopodium Anthelminticum—Jerusalem Oak. Scutellaria Lateriflora—Scullcap. Symplocarpus Foetida, Skunk Cabbage. Tetrand. Monogy. Radix et sem. This is the Arum Americanum of Catesby; the Po- thos fcetida of Michaux; the Dracontium foetidum of Linnaeus and Mildenow; the Pothos Putorii and the Calla Aquatilis of others. It is also known by a varie- ty of synonyma; such as Swamp Cabbage, Foetid Pothos, Skunk-weed, Itch-weed, Polecat-weed, Poke, Helle- bore, Irish Cabbage, Polecat-collard, Cow collard, Stink- weed, &c. This article has, within a few years, been supposed to possess the characteristick property of Antispasmo- dics; and as such, it is recommended by some of the most respectable writers on the Materia Medica. My body, the restoration of the due influence of the will, and thres- toration of the natural state of tention to the muscles. 11 $2 knowledge of its utility is very limited. But from the high professional standing of those that speak in sup- port of its efficacy in the spasmodic affections in which they have used it, the medical public have every reason to conclude it to be justly entitled to a conspicuous situ- ation in the writings of all authors on this department of medicine. Dr. Thatcher, in speaking of the diseases in which its beneficial results have been noticed, ob- serves, that "in those spasmodic affections of the ab- dominical muscles during parturition, or after delivery, this root has proved an effectual remedy." He likewise remarks, that "in chronic rheumatism, and eratic pains of a spasmodic nature, it often performs a cure, or af: fords essential relief; and that it has in some instances of epilepsy, suspended the fits, and greatly alleviated the symptoms."* Dr. Eberle considers this article useful in the attacks of spasmodic asthma; and he states that "in several instances of this disease" he "derived very considera- ble advantage from the employment of this remedy.f" He furthermore observes, that "the powdered root, in the dose of from thirty to fifty grains, is to be given during the paroxism and repeated during the urgency or obstinacy of symptoms. The medicine ought to be continued for some time after the paroxism has en- tirely subsided." ♦American Dispensatory, page 323. tMateria Medica and Therapeutics, Vol. 2—page 118, se^ cond edition. S3 The Symplocarpus Foetida, is recommended by sev- eral physicians of standing in spasmodic coughs, per- tusis, hysteria, &c. as having done good. It is some- times directed to be exhibited in the form of syrup; but this is a very objectionable preparation in conse- quence of the acrid constituent in which its active pro- perties reside being readily dissipated by heat; a decoc- tion, or even infusion, for the same reason, greatly les- sens and impairs its virtues. Schoepf has also noticed this plant as "incidens, calefaciens, expectoraus," and as being useful in phthisical coughs. The root is the part that seems to have attracted his attention. The seed possess more activity than the root, and may undoubtedly be exhibited in the same cases with bet-. ter advantage. Symplocarpus Angustispatha. Narrow spathed Skunk Cabbage, Tetrand. Monog. Rad. et sem. From the remark of Professor W. P. C. Bartow, in the second number of his valuable and highly useful Vegetable Materia Medica of the United States, it ap- pears that this plant is only a variety of the species just noticed. It differs in relation to this article in its general aspect; in its being rather more slender, and the root somewhat smaller. The leaves likewise assume more of a purplish colour. In its medicinal qualities it agrees in every respect with the Symplo carpus Foetida; and may be given in the same doses. 84 Chenopodium Anthelminticum,* Jerusalem Oak, Per tand. Digynia. Herba, Sem. et ollum. I know nothing of the antispasmodic powers of this plant. It is reported to possess some activity in this way. Dr. Ansal W. Ives, says it "possesses some value as an antispasmodic, and as a tolerable good sub- stitute for assafcetida.f" The dose will be noticed hereafter under the head of Anthelmeutics, where it more properly, belongs. Scutellaria, Lateriflora, Scull-cap, Didyuanica, Gymnospermia, Herba. An insertion of this article into the present list of remedies, has been made in consequence of my hav- ing understood from several respectable sources, that it possessed some antispasmodic powers, of this cir- cumstance I know nothing: and I think it rather doubt- ful if it displays this effect in its operation in any very conspicuous degree. *This plant has sometimes been called Chenopodium Botrys.— This is indeed the Linnajan name for this vegetable production. It has also been noticed by the appellations of Botry's Vulgaris, Atriplex Odorates, Atriplex Suarcoteus, fyc. tHis Edition of Paris's Pharniacologia, vol. 2, page 100. 85 CHAPTER VI. Tonics. The articles that have received the appellation of tonics, are those substances, the principal operation of which consists in their invigorating and imparting tone to the system, when debilitated from disease, without, in any very perceptible degree, increasing the force and frequency of the arterial action, %r the heat of the body upon their immediate exhibition. But when their use is continued for several days, under circumstances in which they may be indicated, they gradually promote • digestion, and consequently, increase the appetite for food, which is succeeded by a proportionate renovation of strength, and a corresponding increase in the force and regularity of the pulse. Tonics, no doubt, pro- duce their salutary effects, by the impression they in- duce on the stomach, which is communicated through the medium of the nervous to the general system. They often produce their effects, also, by improving the diges- tive function, and consequently, increasing the quanti- ty as well as the healthy condition of the chyle; a defi- ciency in both of which, is no doubt the cause, often, of debility. In both of these ways, I think, tonics are the most likely to operate to the exclusion of the idea of their entering into the sanquiferous system. Although tonics comprise the third article in the first division of general stimulants, the action they exert is not succeeded by that degree of relaxation or indirect 86 debility, that is connected with the administration of the remediate agents of the Materia Medica, the diffu- sibility of which is displayed in a very short period after they are taken. In confirmation of this generally re- ceived sentiment, I would remark, that it is a fact that must have claimed the attention of any intelligent and observing practitioner, that such medicines as, upon their immediate exhibition, produce a very great ex- citement; that this condition of the system is always followed by a proportionate degree of languor and debi- lity. Hence it may be reasonably inferred, although to- nics are, strictly speaking, stimulant, that the cause of their not inducing debility, is altogether to be ascribed to the circumstance of their exhibition not being suc- ceeded by any perceptible arterial excitement. They, therefore, produce a moderate stimulant impression, which, when kept up as long as the state of the cases in which they are indicated require, impart a certain de- gree of tone to the system, until the vital energies be- come increased, when their use may be withdrawn. In doing this, it is not unlikely they operate in both of the ways just described. Tonics are consequently, admira- bly adapted to the removal of the generality of diseases, depending upon a want of nervous energy, either of the stomach or general system. It will be unnecessary to notice their therapeutic operation in the various cases in which their applicability may be productive of good effects; as this part of the subject more properly be- longs to a notice of the different remedies that are com- prised in the present class, with the peculiar states of the 87 system in which they have been successfully employed. It was an opinion of the distinguished Doctor Cullen that the tonic power of substances wTas inseparably con- nected with the bitter principal. This idea may be cor- rect in relation to some vegetables; but, as a general rule, it cannot stand the test of investigation. For aromatics act as tonics, although this power is perhaps not so permanently exerted upon the system as by some others, in as much as their operation is more diffusible and transient; yet they possess no bitterness. Opium and the Digitalis Purpurea, with several other plants that might be introduced, are very bitter, and their op- eration is well known to differ very materially from the set of medical substances belonging to this class. Some of the mineral preparations are also powerful tonics, which do not produce the least impression of bitterness when taken into the mouth. Therefore, the tonic power that certain articles exert on the system, cannot, consistent- ly with reason and experience, be attributed, under every circumstance, to a bitter principle. It must nevertheless be acknowledged, that the best vegetable tonics, are those that are purely bitter; and that these plants are calculated to make a more permanent and lasting impression than those of the aromatic kind, which are more diffusible in their action, and conse- quently less invigorating, and, as the celebrated Mur. ray remarks, "are therefore rather employed as tempo- rary stimulants, to obviate debility of the digestive or- gans, or as promoting the action of bitters." 88 Our present, although very limited, knowledge of the medical botany of our country, acquaints us with a number of tonics, many of which are doubtless enti- tled to as much attention as some in use among us, that are the production of foreign countries. We are indeed greatly blessed with some invaluable articles of this kind, that are undoubtedly entitled to the at- tention and consideration of the American medical public. These will be noticed in their proper order of arrangement. Tonics. Cunila Mariana, Cunila Pulegoides, Cornus Circinata, Cornus Florida, Cornus Sericea, Cornus Panaculata, Frasera Carolinceusis, Chironia Angularis, Menyanthus Trifoliata, Apocynum Androsomi fo- lium, Gentiana Catesby, Aralia Nudicaulis, Zanthorhiza Apiifolia, Prinos Verticillatus, Acorus Calamus, Chimaphila Umbellata, Dittany, Pennyroyal, Round leaved Dog-wood, Dog-wood, Swamp Dog-wood, Bush Dog-wood, Wild Columbo, Centory, Buck Bean, Milk-weed, Blue Gentian, Wild Sarsaparilla, Shrub Yellow root, Winter-berry, Calamus, Pippsissewa, 89 Chimaphila Maculata, Prunus Virginiana, Coptis Trifolia, Magnolia Glauca, Magnolia Acuminata, Magnolia Tripetala, Magnolia Grandiflora, Liriodendron Tulipifera, Hydrastis Canadensis, Scutellaria Lateriflora, Poly gala Rubella, Eupatorium Perforatum, Eupatorium Teucrifolium Anthemis Cotula, Solidago Odora, Aristolochia Serpentaria, Aristolochia Sipho. Humulus Lupulus, Populus Tremula, Veratrum Luteum, Spotted leaved Pippsisscwa, Wild Cherry Tree, Gold-Thread, Small Magnolia, Cucumber Tree, Umbrella Tree, Tulip Tree, American Poplar, Yellow Root, Scull cap, Bitter Polygala, Bone-set, Wild Hoarhound, Wild Chamomile, Sweet-scented Golden rod, Virginian Snake root, Common Hop. Aspiu, Blazing Star, Cunila Mariana, Dittany, Diandria, Monogynia. Herba. This plant is in no respect inferior to the mentha Viridis, or common Spearmint. It is quite common in various sections of the United States; and is an inhabitant generally of the woods. The whole plant may be employed for medicinal purposes. This posses- ses some pungency and aromatic odour. Both -the 12 90 % infusion and essential oil may be used with advantage as a stimulant and carminative, with a view to the al- leviation of the symptoms that not unfrequently arise from flatulency. I have found it a useful substitute for the Mentha Piperita, when exhibited in conjunc- tion with laudanum in Cholera Morbus. Its utility in the form of a strong infusion and essence I have also no- ticed in allaying nausea. It is however only, like all the aromatic tonics, more particularly adapted to the treatment of affections of the stomach and bowels, arising from a relaxed or debilitated state. Cunila Pulegoides, Pennyroyal, Diana. Monog. Herba. As a carminative this article will be found useful. The infusion is mostly employed without regard to the dose. Cornus Circinata, Round leaved Dog wood, Tetrand. Monogynia, Cortex. This species of Cornus, is found on the sides of hills and mountains, and in the vicinity of the banks of rivers, from Canada to Virginia. The bark, which is the part that is employed for the purposes of medi- cine, imparts,to the taste some degree of astringency, bitterness, and aromatic warmth. This it would seem is nearly allied in its medicinal character to the Cin- chona Cordifolia of Mutis, or Yellow bark. It how- ever, possesses rather more astringency and aroma, than this article. Diarrhaea and dysentery, appear to be the diseases in which it has, as yet, proved itself to be the most 91 useful; and it can only be advantageously employed in these cases, under the circumstanes in which tonics in conjunction with astringents are indicated. From its sensible properties, it may be reasonably concluded to be adapted to the treatment of that form of remitting and intermitting fevers,connected with debility; or after the inflammatory state has been properly subdued. I am unable to say any thing from my own experience, in support of its utility as a medicine. The powdered bark may be given, in doses of from one to two drachms; and m the same proportion when exhibited either in infusion or decoction. Cornus Florida, Dog-wood, Tetrand. Monog. Cortex. This beautiful and highly ornametal tree is quite common in the various parts of our country. In New England, it is known by the name of Box wood. In its sensible qualities, this species of Cornus, is striking- ly analogous to the Circinata. Its effects as a medicine have, however, become more generally known, in con- sequence of which circumstance, it is at present em- ployed to a more considerable extent in the treatment of diseases, than this article. The Cornus Florida is recommended by many very respectable writers, who speak favourable in support of its utility as a medicinal substance and I think very justly. Professor Bigelow, in noticing its sensible and operative qualities, infers, that it approaches "to the character of the Peruvian bark." And the celebrated Professor Chapman considers it as "closely allied" to ws : The Euphorbia Hypericifolia delights in a rich and prolific soil, and is an inhabitant of gardens and other fertile situations. It is recognised by the common and local appellations of Black pursely, Milk-pursely, Milk-weed, &c. Michaux, who doubtless was well acquainted with it has presented us with the succeeding description of its specific character: " Euphorbia Hype- ricifolia, glabra dichotemi, ramocissima, erectiuscula- patula, ramis divaricatis; foliis oppositis; subfalcato 131 oblongis, argute serratis, ramusculis summitate fascicu- latim multiflores." This species of Euphorbia is an annual plant, which grows to the height of a foot, and is rather procumbent. It has a smooth stalk, which is repeatedly forked with divaricated branches. The leaves, which are opposite and oblong, are somewhat falciform, and deeply serrat- ed ; these are often covered with purple spots. The flowers, which appear in August and September, are white, and situated in numerous quantities on the ex- tremity of the small branches. This plant of which I perceive there is another variety, belongs to the eleventh class Dodecandra, the third order Trigynia, and the natural order Tricoccae of Linnaeus, and Euphorbia of J ussieu. In the course of my experimental inquiry on the Eu- phorbia Hypericifolia, 1 digested several portions of the powdered plant in sulphuric ether and alcohol. The ethereal solution gave a precipitate upon the addition of alcohol. The alcoholic preparation assumed a pear- ly turbidness when distilled water was added. Both the ethereal and alcoholic solutions, upon being evapo- rated, afforded a residuum, which burnt with great vi- vidness, and exhibited a flame much like that resulting from the combustion of the spirits of wine. The infu- sion and decoction in distilled water produced a copious precipitate, when either gelatin, or the sulphate of iron, was added. From these results we may reasonably conclude, that this plant contains caoutchouc, resin, and tannin. 132 In its seusible and operative qualities, this interesting indigenous production differs very materially from all the species belonging to the genus Euphorbia, hitherto known. Its taste is somewhat sweetish, which is suc- ceeded by a considerable degree of astringency. Iu its effects on the animal economy, it is slightly narcotic and potently astringent. As a remedial agent, the article under consideration is richly deserving of a conspicuous situation in the Materia Medica. Its astringent power is such as to render it a highly important and interesting remedy, in the treatment of those cases of disease, in which many of the valuable articles that are included in this class of medicines, have been exhibited with the most unequivo- cal and unparalleled success. I have, however, found it particularly beneficial in several of the diseases of the alimentary canal. The slight narcotic property that it possesses, renders it a more salutary and efficacious re- medy, than the most of our astringents, in consequence of its allaying the sensibility of the parts with which it comes in contact, and thereby affording relief from pain, while by its astringent operation, tone is imparted to the debilitated vessels, which restores to them the perfor- mance of their destined functions. In dysentery, I have directed the internal exhibition of the Euphorbia Hypericifolia, and that with the hap- piest results, where the true dysenteric symptoms have continued, after the inflammatory diathesis has been subdued, by the adoption of the most efficient antiphlo. 133 gistic means, with which a knowledge of the science of our profession acquaints us. It is however, under cir- cumstances of this kind only, that I can conscientiously present it to the medical public, as a remedy of no small degree of importance, from a firm persuasion of the in- ternal administration of astringents being counterindi- cated, so long as the pyrexia continues. Diarrhoea, a malady with which the inhabitants of al- most every section of the globe are more or less affect- • ed, is a disease which, although in the generality of ca- ses seldom proves so eminently dangerous, as the one that has just been noticed ; nevertheless, it not unfre- qucntly, from its debilitating influence, undermines the vital energies, and consequently acts as an outlet to hu- man existence. In this disease, 1 can recommend this species of Euphorbia: but previous to prescribing it, I have been iu the habit of directing a dose of the sub. mur. hyd. in conjunction with the ol. ricini, or some other purgative medicine, with the view of removing any viti- ated secretions that might be present in the intestinal canal. When this disease has been of long standing, from a protracted debility of the bowels, this remedial agent will be found a prompt and effectual medicine. The following plan I have adopted, in relation to its preparation for administration, as well as for its mode of exhibition. The dose is intended for an adult; which can be proportioned according to the age of the patient. r Euphorbias hypericifoliae foliorum exsiccat. gss. Infunde in octario aquae bulientis, capiat cochlearia 134 magna unaquaque hora donee morbi symtomata ces- santur. In Cholera infantum, this infusion will be found equally as .efficacious as in the diseases in which 1 have noticed its use ; when given in the dose of a teaspoonful every two or three hours. In the primary stage of this affection, I have never given it a trial, from supposing that the state of the sys- • tern would forbid its administration, in consequence of there being too much febrile action, which is a usual concomitant symptom connected with its occurrence. Calomel alone, and sometimes in conjunction with castor oil, I have usually prescribed, with a view not only of removing the vitiated secretions from the bow- els ; as, likewise, in order to reduce the violence of the fever; but also, to correct the partially deranged hepatic action, which is often connected with its existence, pre- vious to giving it. The case however, of calomel in small and repeated doses, I have often found adequate to its removal, when resorted to, with a view of effect- ing the first mentioned purposes. The success of this plan may be often greatly facilitated; particularly, when the disease seems disposed to assume a protracted form, by the application of a blister over the region of the stomach. Spircea Tormentosa, Hard Hack, Icosand. Pentag. Plasta. Although this plant possesses some bitterness, and has consequently been used in some cases in which tor 135 nic bitters are supposed to be useful; it nevertheless, is powerfully astringent, and as such it has been advan- tageously exhibited in various fluxes, arising from de- bility. In diarrhoea it is stated to have been advantage- ously administered. In dysentery it has been directed with considerable success; but it should never be given until the general febrile excitement has been subdued by depleting remedies. It has been supposed to pos- sess some advantages over the gum kind, in conse- quence of its possessing in a small degree, the proper- ties peculiar to tonic medicines. The extract may be given in doses of from three to six grains, frequently repeated. The infusion and de- coction may also be used. Potentilla Reptans, Common Cinquefoil, lsocand. Polyg. Radix. As a mild astringent, the Potentilla Reptans has been used with advantage, in diarrhoea, and other affections of the bowels. An infusion of the root may be given, without being very particular as to the quantity. Rubus Villosus, Blackberry, Icosand. Polygyn. Radix. The blackberry root has been used with the best ef- fects, in affections of the bowels. It may be given in the form of infusion. It is a mild and efficacious astringent.* * Doctor Mease remarks, that,il a jelly made of blackberries, when on the turn from red to black, is much used in the United States fov 136 Rubus Procumbens, Dewberry, Icos. Polygy. Radix. This is the Rubus Trivialis of Michaux. It is known by the common names of low, or running black- berry. The leaves and root of this species of Rubus, are frequently employed among the country people, as a remedy in affections of the bowels. I have witnessed the good effects of this article in the summer complaint of children. In this disease it will frequently afford re- lief after other medicines, belonging to this class, have failed. A decoction prepared from the root, may be given in the dose of a tablespoonful six or eight times in the course of the day. It may be rendered more palata- ble, by the addition of a little loaf sugar. Geum Rivale, Water Avens, Icosand. Polygy. Radix. This plant is known also by the common and local appellations of cure-all and throat-root. It is not im- probable but what it has received the last name, in con- sequence of its having been successfully employed in the form of decoction and infusion, as a gargle and a drink in cynanche tonsillaris. It is powerfully astrin- gent, and may be used in a variety of affections, requir- ing the aid of the different articles included in this im- portant class of medicines. gravel;" and Doctor Eberle observes, that, "it has been said that a decoction of the root of this plant is very useful in gravelly com- plaints." This writer also states, that, "this root has been much extolled by some late American writers jbr its efficacy in the cure of chronic dysentery, diarrhoea, and cholera infantum." 1S7 Actoea Racemosa, Rich-weed, Polyand. Monog. Radix. This plant, which is an inhabitant exclusively of the woods, delights in a rich and prolific soil. The root possesses much astringency, and as such, we are in- formed by the celebrated and worthy Doctor B. S. Barton, in his collections towards the Materia Medica, &c. it was "used as a gargle with considerable bene- fit, in a putrid sore-throat, which prevailed in New Jersey, many years ago." Schoeph, supposes it to be pelleus, sudorifera, anodyna, repellens, diuretica. This article I have noticed more particularly under the head of narcotics, where it appeared to be worthy of a place, on the account of the narcotic property that it seems to possess. Orobanche Virginiana, Virginian Broom rape, Didy- namia, Angiosp. Planta. This species of Orobanche is very common in many parts of this country, and is generally found under the shade of the Fagus ferruginea. Dr. B. S. Barton, remarks, that "every part of the plant is considerably astringent," which is " evinced not only by the taste of the plant, but also by subjecting it to chemical ex- amination." As an article of the Materia Medica, il has been recommended in dysentery ; but how far it is entitled to attention, future experiments and observa- tions will determine. From my ow n experience I can say nothing of a satisfactory nature. 18 138 Geranium Maculatum, Spotted Geranium, Monad. Decand. Radix. There are perhaps few of our indigenous vegetable astringents that are entitled to more attention, and that may be more successfully exhibited, than the Geranium Maculatum. The root, which is the part that is used medicinally, may justly be considered a valuable astrin- gent. It may be seen growing in almost every section of this country, in the various parts of which it is re- cognized by the names of Crow-foot, common Cranes- bill, &c. This article is stated to have been advantageously employed in the secondary stages of dysentery, diarr- hoea, and in other evacuations, depending on debility. In cholera infantum it has been recommended. Doctor Samuel Harris, an aged and experienced practitioner of Maryland, informed me, that he employed an infusion of the root, exhibited in copious quantities, with the happiest effect, in a case of periodical haemoptysis, after venesection, and the usual remedies had been given without effect. Eoctor Mease speaks of its utility in stopping bleedings.* The bruised root is to be ap- plied to the orifice. The injection of the infusion, has done some good in gonorrhoea; in this form it doubtless produces its effect, in the same way that we not unfre. quently find to result from the use of the solution of the sulphate of zinc, and acetate of lead. In this manner it ♦Philadelphia Medical Museum, Vol. 2—page 163. 139 was used by an empirick, who was celebrated among the peasantry in the cure of this disgraceful affection. In affections of the throat, much advantage has been derived from its application in the form of a gargle, when combined with a suitable portion of honey. It should, however, never be exhibited, in any one case, in which the adoption of the antiphlogistic plan would appear to be indicated, prior to its administra- tion, least it might have a tendency to increase, rather than mitigate the symptoms. This rule should be in- variably observed, in relation to the denomination of all the remedies that come under the administration of astringents. Doses. The infusion and tincture, may be given in the quantity of from half an ounce, to two ounces; and the powdered root from half a drachm, to a drachm. Geranium Robertianum, Herb Robert, Monad. Decand. Radix. This plant possesses similar virtues to the one just noticed, and will be found useful in the same cases of diseases in which this article has been recommended. The doses, preparations, and the modes of exhibition are the same. Comptonia Asplenifolia, Sweet-fern, Monoe. Triand. Planta. A decoction prepared from this plant, has been re- commended in diarrhoea, and cholera infantum. It 140 is not necessary to be very nice as to the quantity that should be given in each dose. Quercus Rubra Montana, Spanish oak, Monoecia, Polyandria, Cortex. A decoction of the Red Oak Bark, (as it is some- times called,) I have found to be an excellent gargle in inflamatory sore throats; but it may be rendered still more useful by the addition of a little of the sulphus aluminae. The powdered bark has also been found a useful remedy in checking the process of syphacelus, or gangrene. Perhaps it may be found serviceable in in- termittents. / Myrica Cerifera, Candleberry Myrtle, Dioecia, Tetrandria. Radix. From the experiments that have been made it appears that this vegetable production contains galic acid, tan- nin, and a small quantity of mucilage. It has not been sufficiently used as an article of the Materia Medica, to warrant the recommendation of its administration, with a view to the alleviation of disease. It is more valuable on account of the wax that is pro- cured from the berries, which is often used as a substi- tute for bees wax, in making candles, and for pharma- ceutical purposes. Dyospyros Virginiana, Persimmon, Polygam. Dioeci. Cortex. Fructus Recens. The Persimmon tree is common to many parts of our country. The fruit is esculent 5 and by many person* 141 thought to be delicious. The country people, in some parts, prepare a very agreeable drink from it, which they call persimmon beer. The bark, as well as the fruit, when given imparts to the taste that sensation which accompanies every astrin- gent. It has been found useful in intermittents, and in some diseases in which the use of astringent medicines are recommended. Perhaps a tincture prepared from the green fruit might be found useful in certain stages of diarrhoea. DIVISION THE SECOND. After having treated of the various articles belonging to the different classes, which have been included under the first division of general stimulants; we now come to notice those which properly belong to the present di- vision, which embraces the substances, the action of which is more local; or, which is generally displayed upon particular organs, or situations. The classes be- longing to this division, are as follows: Emetics, Ca- thartics, Emmenagogues, Diuretics, Diaphoretics, Ex- pectorants, Sialagogues, Errhines, Epispastics and Kubifacients, including Escharotics; which has been taken from the third division of the chemical remedies, and placed under the present head. 142 It will very readily be perceived, even upon a super- ficial view of the operation of the medicines belonging to the above classes, that they have with propriety been denominated by Murray, local stimulants, in conse- quence of" their local operation giving rise to increased secretion, or increased evacuation." CHAPTER VIII. Emetics. Murray, considers emetics such " substances which excite vomiting, independent of any effect arising from the quantity of matter introduced into the stomach, and independent of any nauseous taste or flavour ; or of any narcotic or acid power." This view which he has taken of the subject, of ne- cessity goes to expunge from the list of emetics, all the substances, which excite erne sis ; not, from a certain modified stimulant impression which they produce on the stomach, by which vomiting is induced ; but from the quantity by which a distention is effected, which not unfrequently is the cause of an evacuation of the contents of this viscus. Considerable is the number of substances, which in- duce vomiting, particularly, when the stomach is in an 143 irritable state; from the unpleasant gustation which they produce, or in consequence of their flavour being exceedingly disagreeable. Even food, frequently will excite vomiting, when the stomach is morbidly affected; and sometimes the idea only, of partaking of a particu- lar kind, which has been much admired, will under the influence of disease excite emecis. Hence, no article should strictly be considered as emetic, unless this ef- fect be the result of the peculiar impressions which it invariably produces, when viewed in an abstract point of consideration, from the circumstances first cited. That emetics act upon the stomach by a stimulant im- pression which they induce, would appear, from the circumstance of many of them exciting a greater or less- er rubifacient effect, when applied to the surface of the human body. This is the case not only with some of the articles which are selected from the mineral; but also from the vegetable kingdoms : and others, when applied to more delicate structure producing analogous consequences. It may be asked why it is, that cathar- tics, which operate as stimulants, do not induce vomit- ing ? This question may be answered, by saying, that they are slower in exciting this action, than emetics ; and they therefore pass through the stomach before a sufficient impression is induced, in order to affect the stomach sufficiently to bring about vomiting ; and for the same reason very small doses of emetic medicines pass through this viscus by exciting some nauseau, which cathartics often do, and then increase the evacu- ation by stool. 144 Upon the subject of the effects arising from the ad- ministration of emetics, it may be remarked, that they evacuate the contents of the stomach, as well as the contents of the duodenum, and sometimes even the jejunum. They produce a general agitation of the whole of the body in conjunction with the nervous system ; which is succeeded by a relaxed state of the surface of the body. Emetics are competent to the production of very be- neficial results, under the various circumstances in which their use may be indicated : " 1. Their producing agitation of the body, whence they may be employed to restore uniform circulation ; to promote increased lymphatic absorption; to remove obstruction in the sanguiferous system. 2. From their producing evacuation by vomiting, whence they may be used, to discharge noxious matters taken in by the mouth; to discharge morbid accumulation of secreted matters lodged in the stomach ; to evacuate serous ac- cumulations. 3. From the affection of the nervous system which they occasion; whence they may be em- ployed, to restore excitement to the nervous system in general, and obviate inordinate affections of the ner- vous energy " Whether the contents of the stomach are evacuated in consequence of the contraction which is affected by its muscular coat, by the peculiar operative influence which emetics exert; or whether this effect is produc- ed by the diaphragm in conjunction with the abdomi- 145 nal muscles ; or, any other action in the muscular parts contiguous to the stomach, is a matter of minor impor- tance to understand, in as much, as, it is calculated to convey no very great degree of useful practical infor- mation. The idea, however, which attributes the evacuation of the contents of the stomach, to a primary action in the muscular coat of this important viscus, which is aided by the diaphragm in connection with the abdominal muscles, may be conceived as being the common received opinion; in as much, as, the two last mentioned parts appear always to be more or less con- cerned in the operative evacuating effects of emetics. Although emetics are calculated to be succeeded by the happiest effects, when administered under circum- stances in which they have, in innumerable instances, proved useful; it is to be feared, that they are some- times improperly employed in the primary stages of bilious remitting and intermitting fevers, by even some medical practitioners, who give them with the view of throwing up the bile, from the stomach, which it is supposed contains a very considerable quantity of this fluid. This is, perhaps, not the case iu one eighth of the subjects who are attacked with those diseases ; and, therefore, the administration of this class of me- dicines, is only calculated to throw into the stomach, from the duodenum, the very substance which is in- tended to be removed by exciting vomiting. In relation to the sentiment, of the stomach seldom containing any portion of bile; it may be remarked, IP 146 that, it is an opinion, which is eutertained by the most erudite and distinguished members of the medical community, and which has not only been enforced in their lectures, but likewise in their writings. Cullen says, in writing upon this subject, that, " the most clear proof of the inverted motion of the duodenum is, that in vomiting, and especially after repeated vomit- ing, a quantity of bile seems to be poured from the duodenum into the stomach, and is, in consequence, thrown out by the mouth." He further more says, " I must remark, that both the vulgar, and even physicians, have been ready to suppose, that the bile thrown up by vomiting, existed previously in the stomach itself, and in some instances it may have been so ; but it is more probable that it has been brought from the duodenum, and even from the gall-bladder and biliary ducts." And he supposes, " that if the bile had been previ- ously lodged in the stomach itself, it might have ap- peared in the first vomitings as well as in the last: but it happens, in most instances, that the bile is thrown out by the mouth only after repeated vomitings, and often after repeated strainings in the organs employed in vomiting." A late, and very respectable writer, on the Materia Medica and Therapeutics, (Doctor Eberle,) whose ideas correspond with those of Doctor Cullen, on this part of the subject, with no inconsiderable degree of correctness, observes, that, " the bile, being therefore 147 more copiously thrown into the duodenum, during the first efforts of vomiting, is readily conveyed to the sto- mach, both by the inverted motion of the intestine, and the pressure of the abdominal muscles ;" and further- more, that, " it is obvious, from this, that the first con- tents of the stomach may be thrown off without any admixture of bile, and yet, after one or two acts of vomiting, by which the contents of the duodenum are brought into the stomach, this fluid may be copiously discharged;" and " when, therefore, we do not observe any bile thrown off, until several full evacuations have occurred, we may conclude that it did not previously exist in the stomach, but was brought into it by the preceding acts of vomiting " The learned Dr. Chapman, in the most conclusive and forcible language, states, that, "it has keen main- tained, that the bile exists in the stomach previously to the inverted peristaltic motion. This may sometimes be true, though, were it uniformly the case, the dis- charges would take place in the first efforts of puking, which rarely happens." The remarks which have first been quoted, are of the most satisfactory and conclusive nature in relation to the support of the sentiments, of the nonexistence of bile in the stomach in the general; not under the cir- cumstance of health only, but also under the influence of diseased action. Then why should emetics generally be resorted to in certain bilious affections, with a view of unloading the stomach of the bile which it is supposed 148 to contain in greater or less quantities, when this arti- cle is rarely present? And why should the continued use of emetics be persevered in; when they are only calculated by their peculiar action, to throw from the duodenum into the stomach, the very thing, the inten- tion of which was to be removed by the act of vomit- ing? It is greatly to be apprehended, that some phy- sicians err in this respect; and from the views which they have taken, of bile being present in the stomach, not only while the system is labouring under bilious affections; but also in the full enjoyment of health; they have been led to recommend the administration of emetics, frequently repeated, in order to relieve the sto- mach ef the superabundant portion of bile which is sup- posed it contains. I am aware, that this is the opinion of some of the medical practitioners of the present day, who found their practice upon the views which they have thus formed, from its having been stated to me more than once; and very lately by a medical practi- tioner, who thinks more highly of his own opinions than he does of those which have been advanced; <* that there is always healthy bile thrown into the stomach, to help digestion," and that " when this is increased iu too great quantities, it produces bilious affections." Therefore, he always premises emetics, with all who are of the same opinion, to remove the bile which is the supposed cause of disease. Within ten years practice I have not perhaps pre- scribed more than eighty emetics, in those cases of dis- 149 ease; and then they have only been recommended, par- ticularly in the intermittent form of the disease, pre- vious to the expected recurrence of the chill, and that with a view of preventing its occurrence. 1 have, how- ever, found the various tonics sufficiently adequate to its removal, in conjunction with apispastics under the circumstances of a debilitated type of the affection; and when it exists in full habits, in which the antiphlogis- tic plan is indicated, the use sometimes of venesection; but more particularly of cathartics and eccoproctics, I have advantageously employed, previous to the exhibi- tion of those medicines which are calculated by the to- nic impressions they induce to place the system in a situation to overcome the disease. Emetics, although disadvantageously resorted to, at times, are nevertheless, articles which are calculated to be productive of the happiest consequences, in the di- versified affections in which they have beyond doubt been directed with the most unequivocal and beneficial results. In the management of cynanche trachealis, or croup, their administration is often necessary, particularly, af- ter the use of the lancet has been ineffectually had re- course to. In the mild attacks of this unpleasant mala- dy, emetics in the generality of cases will be found sufficiently competent to its removal; but their salu- tary operation will often be facilitated by giving them in conjunction with calomel, so as to produce an opera- tion sursum et deorsum. However in the more violent 15U and aggravated forms of the disease, venesection, when carried to a sufficient extent to induce syncope, will of- ten relieve the distressing symptoms like a charm, and the administration of a dose of calomel or two, remove it entirely. Bleeding in the more aggravated forms, to the extent just mentioned, should be had recourse to, as a remedy of primary importance. It however, appears from the observations of Doctor Ferriar, that he found it advisable to resort to the use of the lancet in every instance in which he was called to prescribe in this disease; for he remarks, that, " in all the cases of croup which I have seen, I have found it necessary to bleed immediately, and when I have seen the patients sufficiently early to entertain hopes of saving them, I have directed the evacuation to be continued, so as nearly to produce faintings." This he says, " is the essential point of the cure, without which no relief can be effected. Even if the patient should not be seen till the day succeeding the attack, it is proper to bleed ad deliquium, if the subject be plethoric and the difficulty of breathing and restlessness be great." Emetics, have also been advantageously employed in cynanche tonsilaris, in cynanche maligna and in the cynanche laryngea; but in those cases, particularly, the former and the latter, their use should in the major- ity of instances be preceded by venesection, which in the most cases will be found competent to their removal, when carried sufficiently far to induce syncope. In cynanche maligna, by resorting to their us^e in the 151 early attack of the disease, they produce their good ef- fects by throwing off certain portions of acid matter, which, were it permitted to pass into the bowels, would be productive of diarrhoea, an occurrence that is much to be dreaded in consequence of the debilitating effects it induces; which undermines the vital energies, and places the life of the patient often in jeopardy. In relation to their use in menorrhagia, I know but little; but upon creditable testimony they have been 'ecommended as being worthy of notice. What has been said in attestation of their efficacy in the treatment of mania a potu, I know nothing; but, from the several writers who have spoken in their fa- vour, every reason should be entertained of their being indicated in the generality of the cases of this distress- ing malady. In gutta serena, emetics may be employed, when the disease is supposed to arise from gastrick derangement. In three cases which came under my professional con- sideration, and in all of which 1 directed the use of the pulv. ipecacuanha, every morning for several days in succession; one became perfectly relieved; the second partially recovered; and the third appeared to receive no benefit. I can say nothing in the support of their efficacy in dysentery as it occurs in this country; for I have never used them. My whole dependence, in the primary stage of the disease, has been placed in the use of the lancet; the exhibition of calomel in doses sufficiently 152 large to procure natural evacuations; the occasional use of the castor oil, the latter of which 1 sometimes prescribe, not only with a view of facilitating the oper- ation of the calomel; but also, to allay irritation, which often arises from acid secretions, by its sheathing the coats of the bowels; and thereby obtunding the opera- tion of these acid secretions. Other eccoproctics J sometimes employ, when no tormina is felt. Iu the purtussis, more commonly denominated the hooping-cough, emetics may be considered as useful palliatives. I have however, resorted to the use of the calomel in the generality of instances, and with no small degree of success, when evidences of much arterial ex- citement is displayed, in doses frequently repeated, in in order to increase the evacuation by stool. It is not only calculated to diminish excitement in this way; bat in consequence of its frequently inducing nausea, a dou- ble effect is accomplished. Venesection 1 have some- times resorted to, under the circumstances as just men- tioned with the best effects. In asthmatic affections, which are not of rare occur- rence, emetics have been recommended as being parti- cularly beneficial; for my own part I can only remark, that when the affection occurs in plethoric habits, 1 have found copious bleeding productive of the best re- sults ; and more particularly, when succeeded by the administration of calomel combined with the jallop; with a view of procuring a free operation of the bowels. when this state of the body is not connected with its 158 attack, and when asthma exists under the circumstance of a relaxed, or debilitated state of the system, I have often noticed the very salutary effects arising from the exhibition of antispasmodics in conjunction with expec- torant remedies. Doctor Eberle, however, remarks that in this disease " emetics are of unquestionable advantage. They not only assist materially hi expelling the viscid mucus from the bronchia, but operate in a direct manner in fa- cilitating the transmission of the blood from the right to the left side of the heart, the impeded course of which forms, perhaps, the chief source of distress in this and other similar affections. That the operation of an emetic produces this effect, is evident from the circum- stances which take place during the act of vomiting. During this process the diaphragm is drawn down- wards, by which the thoracic cavity is enlarged, and the lungs are in a full state of inspiration^ and therefore expanded to the utmost degree. The necessary conse- quence of this is, that the blood which had congested in the pulmonary arteries, right side of the heart, and large venous trunks, in consequence of the previous inade- quate expansion of the lungs, is now, during the act of vomiting, permitted to pass on with freedom to the right side of the heart. And hence, in part, the tem- porary relief almost invariably obtained from full vomiting in this disease." Professor Chapman says, " emetics are advantage- ous in asthma." The distinction instituted in this 20 154 disease, he says, "of humoral and spasmodic, may, in some instances, be correct—and the two species occa- sionally exact some modification of practice. Yet, as to the use of emetics, 1 suspect the distinction need not be very nicely observed. They generally afford re- lief in the paroxysm; and, timely administered, will sometimes prevent the recurrence of it." In the various febrile affections emetics are most val- uable remedies. Upon this subject, Ihave, it will rea- dily be perceived, said but little. Emetics should be avoided when there is any origin- al affection of the brain ; and in very corpulent habits. In affections of the heart and arteries, particularly of the larger arteries. In aneurisms of those vessels ; and in very delicate habits, particularly if this state be con- nected with a plethoric state of body. Emetics cannot under the existence of aneurismal affection of the larger vessels be productive of any good results; but rather the contrary; even, after venesection has previously been had recourse to; as also, in idiopathick dieases of the brain. Their inordinate action may be checked by giving a small dose of laudanum ; or, some cordial drink should these not be found competent; an epispastick applied over the region of the stomach, will in almost every in- stance be found sufficiently adequate to check their oper- ation ; and to tranquilize and compose this important organ. 155 Emetics, Hex Vomitoria South-sea Tea Apocynum Androsoemifo- Milk-weed Hum Nicotiana Tabacum Tobacco Nicotiana Rustica Common green Tobaceo Asclepias Incarnata Silk weed Erythronium Americanum Common Erythronium Dirca Palustris Leather Wood Sophoria Tinctoria Wild Indigo Phytolacca Decandra Americau Nightshade Euphorbia Ipecaunha American Ipecacuanha Euphorbia Corollata Large flowering Spurge Gillenia Trifoliata Indian Physick Gillenia Stipulacece Small flowering Indian Physick Sanguinaria Canadensis Puccoon Polygala Senega Seneka Lobelia lnflata Emetic-weed Eupatorium Perfoliatum Bone Set Anthemis Cotula Wild Chamomile Hex Vomitoria, South-sea Tea, Tetrand, Tetrag. Herba. The plant under consideration, is known in some parts of the United States, by the names of ever- green, cassine casseena, &c. It is reported to be an active emetic. It is however, seldom, if at all resort- 156 ed to, in practice, with a view to its producing this ef- fect on the animal economy. Apocynum Androsoemifolium, Milk-weed, Pentand. Monog. Radix. This article I have noticed under the head of tonics, in which place it is undoubtedly worthy of a conspicu- ous situation. The powdered root of this species of apocynum, in doses of from thirty to forty grains, given at once, is a pretty good emetic; being certain, prompt, and effectual in its influence on the coats of the stomach; rarely pro- ducing the unpleasant vertigs, and other effects, that too frequently result from, and accompany the use of the administratiou of some of our indigenous articles, belonging to this class of remedies. When exhibited with a view of producing effects an- alogous to the pulv. epecacuanha in the form of the pulv. doveri, the following formulae may be adopted. R. Pulv. Cort. Rad. Apocy. Audrosae 31. Pulv. Gum. Opii jss. Pulv. Nitras Potassae 5ss. M. 5 In cases of a,cute rhumatism, when, after venesection has been freely resorted to, with the use of suitable ca- thartics, a dry surface still continues, this formula, giv- en in doses of ten grains, will seldom fail to induce a general diaphoresis. I have in my note book two cases 15? of pneumonia, in Which venesection had been liberally used ; and the pulv. conv. julap. cum sub. mur hyd. until the bowels were freely evacuated, without any visible relaxation upon the surface (though some allevi- ation of the pain), when 1 thought it advisable to give ten grain doses every three hours, which ended in a profuse and copious diaphoresis. Also one case of phrenitis, in which I used it with the most decided benefit. Nicotianum Tabacum, Tobacco, Pentandria, Monogynia. Fol. It is a circumstance, with which the most trivial ob- server is acquainted; that chewing, or smoking of tobac- co, generally induces vomiting in persons who are unac- customed to its use. It is undoubtedly an emetic of considerable activity, when exhibited internally; in consequence of which circumstance it is rarely employed in this way in prac- tice ; but as an external application, in the form of a poultice to the epigastrick region, in cases requiring the most prompt and speedy vomiting. When large doses of opium, or laudanum have been taken iu order to destroy life, applied in this way, it has been found competent to excite emesis when the most active emetics have failed. 158 Nicotiana Rustica, Common green Tobacco, Pentand, Monogynia. Fol. This plant is also emetic, possessing rather less ac- tivity than the one just mentioned; which consequently renders it a safer remedy. Asclepias Incarnata, Silk-weed, Pentandria, Digynia, Radix. This article has lately attracted notice as an emetic. A certain Doctor Anderson, who graduated in the Uni- versity of Maryland, it appears made it the subject of his thesis. A physician, however, at the eastward, per- haps, Doctor Fully, seems to have noticed it prior to this gentleman; as a useful emetic and cathartic. In this respect, it does not appear to differ from the ascle- pias asthmatica, which is a native of the Island of Cey- lon ; and which is represented upon respectable testi- mony to be slightly emetic and cathartic. Of its medi- cinal virtues I am entirely ignorant. Erythronium Americanum,* Common Erythronium, Hexand. Trigynia, Radix, Folia. This plant has a bulbous Toot; forty grains of which, when properly dried, is sufficient to excite emesis under ordinary circumstances. The leaves also possess this property; but, perhaps in a less degree. Sufficient ex- * This is the Erythronium Lanceolatum, of Pursh; the Erythro- nium Flavum, of Smith; and the Erythonium Congifolium, of Poiret. 159 periments, however, have not been made, to fix its char- acter in point of practical usefulness. Dirca Palustris, Leather-wood, Octand. Menog. Cortex. The bark of this production has a disagreeable taste; which is succeeded by an acrimonious sensation. Professor Bigelow, in noticing its emetic powers, says that " if taken in the quantity of six or eight grains, it produces a sense of heat in the stomach, and at length brings on vomiting." I know nothing of this article from experience. Sophora Tinctoria, Wild Indigo, Decand. Monogy. Radix, Planta. This is the podalyria tinctoria of Michaux; it is some- times called indigo-weed, horsefly-weed, &c. It is stated to have been found to operate powerfully as an emetic, but it seems to be more particularly deserving of notice as an antiseptic : and perhaps it is by no means inferi- or to many medicines of this kind Phytolacca Decandra, American Nightshade, Decand. Decagy. Radix. This article, which is known by even the most com- mon observer, has received the appellations of poke, poke-weed, garret, skoke, cancer-root, &c. The root as an emetic, is supposed by some writers, to be rather analogous in its operation to the callicocca Ipecacuanha. 160 Doctor George Haywood exhibited the powdered root, in the dose of a scruple, in thirty cases and he states, that he was led to observe, " that the quantity has al- ways operated, excepting in one case as an emetic and cathartic, usually three or four times thoroughly, though never severely ; that in general it commences its oper- ation on the stomach in an hour, and rarely continues longer than four."* Professor Rigelow says, that " in its medicinal pro- perties the root of the phytolacca decandra approach- es nearer to ipecacuanha than any American vegetable I have hitherto examined. From abunduat experience the results of many made in dispensary practice; I am satisfied that when properly prepared it operates in the same doses, and with the same certainty, as the South American emetic." I have never made, use of the root, with a view of ascertaining how far it is entitled to consideration, on the account of its emetic virtues : but the juice and ex- tract prepared from the berries, 1 have made the sub- ject of practical investigation, in order to test their effi- cacy in chronic rheumatism. In the fall of 1820, whilst on a visit in the country, I procured a quantity of the berries of the plant, suffici- ent to obtain several quarts of the juice. By the process of evaporation, five quarts of this latter afforded me one pound and seven ounces of the extract. This prepara- * New England Journal of Medicine and Surgery, vol. 6, page 313 161 tion 1 have occasionally administered internally in cases of chronic rheumatism, though with less success than the simple juice. Of seven cases, which from their nature were thought worthy of particular atten- tion, and in which the extract was exhibited in doses of five grains three times a day, three only were cured. Whilst on the contrary, of the same number of pa- tients to whom I administered the juice in the dose of a table-spoonful every four hours, 1 succeeded in re- moving the symptoms of this troublesome and distres- sing malady in five. When the Datura Stramonium cannot be readily procured, I would recommend the juice of the berries of the Phytolacca Decandra, inasmuch, as it appears from my own experimental observation, to be little in- ferior in point of efficacy, and promptness of effect, to this very valuable and important remedy. The operation of this preparation, cannot upon cor- rect principles I conceive, be alleged to any narcotic power that is exerted upon the system in conse- quence of its administration; inasmuch, as, no symp- toms upon which the character of this set of remediate agents is founded, succeeds its internal use. I am therefore, led to attribute its beneficial results, to a general alterative power that it exerts upon the animal economy. The juice may be preserved from fermentation, and kept fit for medical purposes throughout the summer 21 16-' mouths, by the addition to every quart, eight ounces of diluted alcohal. Euphorbia Ipecacuanha, American Ipecacuanha, Dodecand. Trigynia. Radix. This species of Euphorbia, delights in a sandy soil, and may consequently be seen in the various sec- tions of this country, in which this soil is to be found. It is known by a variety of common and local appel- lations ; such as, Indian Physic, wild Ipecacuanha, Spurge, &c. This article is a good emetic, when given in the dose of the powdered root, of from ten to fifteen grains. By those medical practitioners of our country that have made use of it, it is supposed to be a pretty good sub- stitute for the ipecacuanha of the shops. Professor W. P. C, Barton states, that, it may be used instead of this article in the various combinations into which it enters. Euphorbia Corollata, Large flowering Spurge, Dodec. Trigy. Radix. The plant that is the subject of the present article, we are informed by Pursh, grows in dry fields from Cana- da to Carolina. It is also quite common in some parts of Virginia, In the sandy lands of Maryland, it is seen in the greatest abundance; and particularly in Anne Arundel County, where it is recognised by the common 10S appellations *of milk-weed, snakes-milk, ipecacuanha,* and indian physic. It is rarely found growing in the woods; but in fields that are cultivated every two or three years ; and the usual method that is resorted to in order to destroy bluegrass, such as plowing and harrowing, is only calculated to increase its growth ra- pidly. Animals never as yet, have been found to eat it; but carefully avoid it whenever it is an inhabitant of fields in which they pasture. The stalks which arise from the common trunk of the root of this species of euphorbia are sometimes as many as thirty, and from this down to a single one. These stems, which arise from a branching root, are erect, and not unfrequently exceed three and four feet in height. The largest roots that I recollect seeing, have measured from an inch to two inches and a half in circumference. The root of the corollata possesses a very great ad- vantage over most remedies, in its not possessing an un pleasant taste; and being succeeded by a slight sense of heat which passes off in a few minutes, without pro- ducing any uneasiness. 1 have made use of the powdered root iu practice, for some time past; and I am bold in saying, that 1 believe it to be equal to the Cephaelis Ipecacuanha. * The name of Ipecacuanha which has been given to this plant, by the country people, doubtless is a very proper one; inasmuch as Ipecacuanha, in the language of South America, signifies vomiting root. 164 As an emetic it is mild and certain in its operation, rarely occasioning pain or spasms, and exciting little previous nausea or giddiness: possessing an advantage over some other medicines of this class, that when it does not prove emetic, it passes off by the bowels.* The dose of the powdered root is from fifteen to twenty grains ; but it may be taken in larger doses than this, without its being attended with any violent effects. Its activity is very little impaired by boiling. Com- bined with opium, in the form of the pulv. dov. it is a valuable diaphoretic. The watery and alcoholic extracts may be given in the dose of from five to eight grains: they differ very little in the force with which they act. The Vinum Euphorbia Corrolata, acts with as much certainty as the Vin. Ipecac, the manner of preparing it is as follows :—R. Radix Euph. Corrol. one ounce : Vin. Hisp. Alb. one pint. The dose is an ounce for a grown person. By separating the epidermis and corticle, from the ligneous part of 893 grains of the recent root, and weighing of them accurately, the result was as follows: epid. 84 grains, ligneous or woody part 189, and 620 of cortex, or bark. So from the above examination, it appears that the root is made up of nearly two thirds of the most active part, which is the bark. •This species of Euphorbia is used as an emetic in some parts by the country people. It is highly esteemed by them as a medicine, in the cure of dropsey and intermittent fevers. 165 From 2160 grains of the recent root, I obtained 102 grains of watery extract; and from the same quantity of fresh root, after digesting a suitable time in alcohol, 1 obtained 123 grains alcoholic extract. Gillenia Trifoliata, Indian Physic, Icosand. Pentag. Radix. This plant is sometimes called, Spiraea Trifoliata. It is also known, by several common names; such as ipe- cac, reumont root, &c. The root, which is the part that is used for medical purposes, is a safe and efficacious emetic, when properly dried in the shade, and given in the dose of thirty grains. In one instance, I gave it a trial on myself, and it was perfectly mild in its opera- tion. The country people are in the habit of taking every half hour, a teacup-ful of a strong infusion, until emesis is brought on. We are informed by Dr. B. S. Barton, " that along with its emetic, it seems to possess a tonic power;" and " accordingly it has been thought peculiarly beneficial in intermittent fever."* Doctor Eberle, in his remarks on this subject, observes, " from my own experience, with this plant, which has not been inconsiderable, I am led to regard it as very little inferior to the officinal ipecacuanha, as an emetic. Like this latter article, it is a safe and efficacious vomit."f He has " employed it very frequently as an emetic, in the treatment of in- • Collections for an Essay, &c part the first, page 27. + Materia Medica and Theraneutics. vol. '. pnec 67. 106 termittent and bilious fevers, and it very seldom disap- pointed" him "of the desired effect," It is to be much regretted, that the apothecaries are not in the habit, generally, of keeping this, as well as many of our useful native plants for sale. Gillenia Stipulacea, Small flowered Indian Physic, Icos. Pent. Radix. The root of this species of Gillenia, appears not to have been sufficiently attended to, to enable us to give any information as to its real utility as an emetic. It is said to possess emetic powers to rather a more considerable extent than the article just noticed. It is hoped that the attention of some of the members of the profession, who reside in the western states, in which it grows, will be given to this plant, with a view to ascertaining its medicinal application, in the diseases in which it may be calculated to prove beneficial. Sanguinaria Canadensis, Puccoon, Polyand. Monog. Radix. This plant is called Blood-root, Red-root, American Tumeric, Indian paint, Puccoon-root, &c. It delights in a rich and fruitful soil. It is a powerful emetic, and should consequently be given with great care. It is rarely exhibited with this view. The dose of the pow- dered root is from ten to fifteen grains.* * Professor Bigelow has ascertained from examination, that, the »oot of this production contains a peculiar resin; a bitter principle 167 lJolygala Senega, Seneka, Diadelph. Octand. Radix. This plant is a valuable indigenous vegetable pro- duction. It acts as an emetic, when used in large do- ses ; and will be found a valuable remediate agent, in the removal of cynanche trachealis ; when exhibited in the form of infusion, frequently repeated until the desir- ed effect is produced. It will be taken into considera- tion more particularly in the subsequent part of this work. Lobelia Inflata, Emetic-weed, Syng. Monog. Folia. This plant is sometimes called Lobelia Emetica, In- dian Tobacco, &c. The leaves possess active emetic properties, and should be exhibited with very great caution. The powdered leaves may be given in the dose of about eight grains every twenty minutes, until it operates. an acrid principle; a fibrous or woody part, as also a portion of fe- cula; and likewise, that alcohol comes off of the root by distillation, strongly impregnated with its colour and taste; and that the acrimo- ny which it possesses, resides in the resinous principle, and is com- municated in some degree to water. I am aware, that the tinctures prepared from this root, lose their medicinal virtues, when kept for any considerable time: and that they should be prepared annually, on the account of the acrid principle passing off gradually when extracted by a spirituous menstrum. One of my former pupils, Doctor L. F. X. O'Brien, has from re- peated experiments which he has made, ascertained that the seeds of the sanguinaria canadensis, does not possess in the least degree any narcotic power. 168 Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Bone-set, Syngen. Polygam. iEqualis. Folia. In relation to the utility of this production as an emetic, I can say nothing from my own observation. There are however, some respectable writers, that have spoken of its effects in this way; Doctor Ansel W. Ives, considers, " it a valuable emetic in the early stage of autumnal intermittents ;"* he likewise says, " the warm decoction in large doses, operates with great certainty and safety as an emetic." Doctor Eberle, states, that when " taken in large doses it excites vomiting and purging, "f Anthemis Cotula, Wild Chamomile, Syng. Polygam. Superflua. Herba. , A strong infusion of this plant will excite emesis. A weak infusion may be made use of to facilitate the operation of emetics. •Vide his edition of Paris's Pharmacologia, vol. 2, page 143. f Eberle's Materia Medica and Therapeutics, vol, 2, page 235. 169 CHAPTER IX. Cathartics. Cathartics are those medicines, which, by a pecu- liar stimulant impression which they induce, preterna- turally increase the peristaltic motion, and, consequent- ly evacuate the intestines downwards ; or, thereby in- duce what is generally denominated purging. The remedies properly belonging to this class, per- haps, admit of a more extensive range of application, than the substances which are included in any of the other classes which enter into the Materia Medica. Such, indeed, is their general acknowledged utility, that there appears to be but few cases of diseases, in which they may not be employed with greater or less advantage. Professor Chapman says, "the intimate connexion existing between the whole of the alimentary canal, and other portions of the complicated structure of the animal machine, gives to them an extensive influence, and renders them among the most important means in the practice of our profession." These remedies differ in no inconsiderable degree in relation to the evacuating effects which result from their employment. This is very obvious from the cir- cumstance of some of them generally operating mildly, and without producing any tormina: while others 3§ 170 which are equally gentle in their operation, produce considerable griping. Others are more drastick in displaying their evacuating effects ; and some again produce but one or two evacuations, while another set continues to act for a considerable length of time ; they also operate on different portions of the bowels. It is not unlikely, but what all cathartic medicines excite more or less the intestinal exhalents into action; but, this effect is more evident when the saline articles of this kind are exhibited, which gives to the alvine dis- charges a fluidity of consistence, that is rarely discov- erable in the employment of many others, particularly the calomel, the rheubarb, with several more articles which have been embraced in the present division of therapeutick remedies. The learned Doctor Eberle remarks, that, " inde- pendent of the different degrees of evacuant powers which these remedies possess, they also differ essen- tially from each other in relation to the particular part of the intestinal tube upon which they more immediate- ly exert their actions, as well as in the nature and ap- pearances of the discharges which they . produce. Thus," says he, "gamboge, calomel, and a few others, act more particularly upon the upper portion of the intestines; castor oil, colocynth, &c. possess a more extensive range of action ; while aloes acts almost en- tirely upon the lower portion of the bowels." The difficulty which presents itself in relation to giving a satisfactory explanation of the cause which 171 gives rise to the action that cathartic medicines dis- play upon the different parts of the alimentary canal, is in a very great measure removed, by the happy rea- soning of John Ayrton Paris, M. D. &c. &c. who ap- pears to have taken a strikingly correct view of this interesting subject. He remarks, that, " it is probably owing to the diversity which exists in the solubility of the active elements of purgatives, that so great a di- versity occurs in their operation." He also*'observes, " it is for instance easy to conceive that a medicine may act more immediately, and specially on the sto- mach, small or large intestines, according to the rela- tive facility with which its principles of activity enter into solution; that those which are dissolved before they pass the Pylores are quick and violent in their ef- fects, and liable to affect the stomach, as is exemplified by the action of gamboge, &c. whilst some resinous purgatives on the other hand, as they contain princi- pies less soluble, seldom act until they have passed out of the the stomach, and often not until they have reached the colon. Colocynth has a wider range of operation, since its principles of activity reside both in soluble and insoluble elements. Aloes again, being still further insoluble, pass through the whole alimen- tary canal before they are sufficiently dissolved, and act therefore more particularly upon the rectum, by which they are likely to produce piles, tenesmus, and the va- rious effects which so usually attend their operation/" He furthermore says, that, " the characteristic effects 172 of rhubarb, senna, saline cathartics, and indeed, all of the individual substances which compose the class of purgative medicines, will also admit of a satisfactory explanation from the application of these views." * From the administration of cathartics, a variety of changes are produced throughout the complicated struc- ture of the animal body, independent of their merely evacuating the intestines ; by their peculiar-action they are calculated to lessen the quantity of the circulating fluids; but more particularly the serosity ; they also effect a change in the balance of the circulation, and a diminution of the perspiratory process. In relation to their effects upon the nervous system, they may be supposed to increase the excitement generally of the nervous energy. Not a few are the diseases in which this set of remedies may be successfully employed. When pain in the head, connected with languor, and accompanied with general uneasiness, results from an increased accumulation of feculent matter, particular- ly in the small intestines, some degree of pressure is consequently made upon the descending aorta, when the blood is increased beyond the ordinary quantity in its ascending branches, which naturally produce these unpleasant symptoms. Their utility under cir- cumstances of this kind, seems very evident; for by their evacuating the alimentary canal, they remove the pressure from the aorta, and thereby relieve the un- * Vide his Pharmacologia. pages 103—104. 173 pleasant symptoms, by a free circulation again taking place throughout the aorta descendens. In dysentery ; a disease of very frequent occurrence, and one indeed, which not unfrequently terminates unfa- vourably, this set of remedies may be exhibited with the happiest effects ; but, calomel exhibited alone, or in conjunction with some other active purgative, may in the generality of instances, be very advantageously giv- en ; inasmuch, as the more active purgatives seem to stimulate the muscular fibres, more particularly of the colon, than those of any other part of the intestines, by which they evacuate the contents more effectually of its cells. But calomel in this affection, is perhaps upon the whole, rather preferable, when followed by some of the demulcent tribe of purgatives : because by its pe- culiar operation, it may sometimes connect the func- tional derangement of the liver, which is often con- nected with the malady under consideration ; while this set of purgatives by sheathing the internal sur- face of the intestines, obtund the vitiated secretions, which often act as a source of great irritation, and thereby, iu some measure, mitigate the distressing un- easiness of the bowels. Diarrhoea, which is an affec- tion of very frequent occurrence, very often is the con- sequence of acrid bile, or other vitiated secretions in the intestines, in conjunction with crude injesta. This disease, when it owes its origin to these, or similar causes, in the majority of instances, may be more ef- fectually and promptly removed by the proper selec- 174 live administration of cathartics, than with any other set of medicines. This must be obvious to every in- telligent physician, who has paid the necessary atten- tion to the treatment of the various cases of diseases which not unfrequently claim his professional consi- deration. The cholera infantum, may be more successfully managed by these remedies in its first stage, than with any others.—The most useful evacuant remedy how- ever, may be considered the calomel.—In the cholera of adults ; the administration of some opiate to tran- quilize and compose the stomach, and thereby check the vomiting, will always be necessary previously to resorting to the use of cathartics; which are indispen- sable articles to the complete removal of the disease. In the Cynanche Trachealis, Tonsillais, Parotidoz, and Maligna, this class of remedies judiciously ex- hibited, will be found competent to the production of very satisfactory results. In each of these affections, I have employed them with decided benefit. In the lat- ter disease, I have however found the milder articles of this kind to answer a better purpose. The principal object I have always had in view of affecting by the administration of laxatives in this affection, has been to remove the irritative contents of the bowels, which I have invariably found to act as a source of great ag- gravation to the disease, and consequently act as an effectual barrier to the salutary operation of other re- medies that are employed. James Hamilton, M. D. 175 in his valuable work on " purgative medicines in se- veral diseases," observes, " an exhausting diarrhoea or dysentery, it is said, arc troublesome and common consequences of cynanche maligna; on which ac- count purgatives are conceived to be injurious. But I cannot see the force of this objection. For were 1 to devise a mean of preventing these consequences, or of removing them when they had taken place, none more likely would occur to me, than the use of those very purgatives, which are thus so dogmatically proscribed ; while 1 employed them however, I would carefully limit their eft'ect to the express purpose of unloading the bowels, and shun the inconvenience of inducing weakness by full purging." During the use of mild purgatives in this species of cynanche, it* will be ne - cessary to support the system, while it is under their operation. In the febrile affections which are characterized by great increased vascular excitement, the administra- tion of the drastic cathartics, with a view to evacuate the intestinal canal both promptly and copiously, may be considered amongst the best and most effectual re- medies, when viewed abstractedly from the advantages which venesection affords ; for although the increased arterial action may in a great measure be removed by the use of the lancet, yet if the bowels are not relieved of their irritative contents, the febrile action will conti- nue in defiance to every other remedy—cathartics are therefore indispensable remedies ; their use is not 176 confined alone however to fevers of this type, but ma\ with safety and success be employed in those connect- ed with a debilitated state of disease : or to use the language employed by the votaries of medicine, in the typhus fever, I am well aware that there are ma»?y me- dical practitioners who are of the opinion, that cathar- tics are inadmissible in this form of fever, in conse- quence of their supposing that they are calculated to aggravate or increase the symptoms of debility already existing. This might, in the majority of instances, be the result of their indiscriminate employment. In fevers of a debilitated type, the use of the milder articles of this class, is seldom contra-indicated—they produce their beneficial effects by unloading the bowels of their contents, which act as a source of great general irritation. Doctor Hamilton in speaking of their suc- cessful administration, observes, " 1 have directed a strict attention to this practice for a long time, and I am now thoroughly persuaded that a full and regular evacu- ation of the bowels relieves the oppression of the sto- mach, cleans the loaded and parched tongue, mitigates thirst, restlessness, and heat of surface; and that thus the latter, and more formidable impression on the ner- vous system is prevented, recovery more certainly and speedily promoted, and the danger of relapsing into fe- ver much diminished." Impressed with use of purgatives in the typhus fe- ver, Dr. Armstrong remarks, that, "purgatives seem beneficial by unloading the intestines of faeces and ex- 177 crementitious matters, which, when retained, excite and keep Up much general irritation. But," he says, " is it not exceedingly probable, that they have ano- ther and far more salutary effect, in restoring healthy secretion, and in removing irregular distributions of blood from the head, liver, and other parts ? The full operation of aperients sometimes reduces the mor- bid heat of the skin and the morbid force of the pulse, almost as effectually as the affusion of cold water or venesection ; consequences which surely indicate that their action extends further than the mere removal of fcecal matter from the intestinal canal." In intermittents, and remittents, cathartics appear to be indispensable remedies. It is however essen- tially necessary to the complete removal of these dis- eases, to push their exhibition considerably further, where they exist in plethorick habits, in connexion with fever of high arterial excitement, than when they exist under opposite circumstances. In several of the diseases arranged by Doctor Cul- len within the class neuroses, the milder cathartics, or rather laxatives, are often productive of highly be- neficial results. In apoplexies they may be consider- ed essential medicines ; as likewise in palsies. In the former of these diseases they evidently produce their good effects by obviating in a great measure a determination of the circulation to the head—and by removing from the bowels, such substances or secre- tions which not unfrequeutly act as sources of great 23 178 intestinal irritation. Chorea, a disease which is tru ly an unpleasant one, it appears, has been successfully treated in a number of instances by a judicious selec- tion of cathartics—Doctor Parr for "more than twen- ty years since," from the circumstance of " catching the hint from Sydenham, gave purgatives." He "found that these usually obviate disease yielding not only soon, but with little danger of relapse ; and in this interval" he says " he had occasion to see more than sixty cases." He furthermore remarks, that " the choice of the purgative appears of little impor- tance ; but it must be active, for no other will produce the necessary discharge ; and," that, " the saline pur- gatives are apparently less adapted to the complaint."* This is owing to their being less powerful; and con- sequently incompetent to the production of analagous effects. Doctor Hamilton places but little confidence in the tonic and stimulant plan of treatment in this disease. Indeed, from his own experience, he found these modes of treatment inadequate to its removal; for he says, he " began to desert a practice in which" he " had lost confidence : and to consider chorea in a dif- ferent light from that iu which it had commonly been viewed."f In the first stage of the disease, he advis- es the use of gentle purgatives, " repeated as occa- ' sion may require," which he says, " will readily effect * Vide his London Medical Dictionary, vol, 1, page 432. t See his work on purgatives, page, 87, 89. 179 a cure, or rather prevent the full formation of the dis- ease." " In the confirmed stage," he states, that " pow- erful purgatives must be given in successive doses." He considers that by this treatment chorea may be speedily cured. In tetanus, hypocondriasis, and in hysteria, the pur- gative plan of treatment has been recommended. Up- on the subject of their utility in these cases and dis- eases, when given alone, I know nothing. 1 have em- ployed purgatives in these affections in conjunction with other remedies, and with good results ; but at the same time, it would be difficult for me to say, whether the beneficial results that have been display- ed, should be ascribed to the combined use of these means, or to the impressions of a favourable nature having been induced by the purgatives which were given. Cathartics have likewise been given in dropsical diseases ; and in the ascites and anasarca, I have found them particularly useful; but more conspicuous- ly effectual when prescribed in connexion with diuret- ics. Various are the diseases, in which the articles be- longing to the class of cathartics have been given, and from their confirmed utility, which is every day pre- sented to the notice of the members of the medical profession; it may very naturally and correctly be in- ferred, that they are equalled by few, and surpassed 180 by no other set of medicines which are iucluded in the Materia Medica. Cathartics. Iris Virginica Iris Versicolor Iris Verna Triosteum Perfoliatum Nicotiana Tabacum Nicotiana Rustica Convolvulous Panduratus Asclepias Tuberosa Rumex Acutex Cassia Marilandica Podophyllum Peltatum Anona Triloba Eupatorium Perfoliatum Juglaus Cinerea Virginian Iris Variegated Iris Bastard Ipecacuanha Tobacco Common green Tobacco Wild Potatoe-vine Pleurisy-root Narrow Dock American Senna May-apple Pap aw Bone-set Butternut Iris Virginica, Virginian Iris, Triandria, Monogynia, Radix. With propriety this plant may be considered as being among the most highly ornamental vegetable productions of the United States. It inhabits meadows and low grounds. Its large blue flowers, which are variegated with purple and white, unfold and display themselves in the month of July. The root of this plant is actively cathartic; a de- coction of which operates generally too powerfully to 181 admit of its administration in ordinary cases. In cer- tain cases and diseases, which resist the action of the milder purgatives, it may be given with advantage ; and that very often with the effect of procuring co- pious evacuations from the bowels. When the expressed juice is intended to be exhibi- ted, from thirty to eighty drops will in the majority of instances be found competent to produce the intend- ed effect. Iris Versicolor, Variegated Iris, Triand. Monog. Radix. This article inhabits similar situations, with the species just noticed. It possesses virtues strikingly analagous to it; and it may be resorted to in practice under the circumstances, in which it has been employ- ed with success. Iris Verna—Triand. Monog. Radix. The root of this production is also an active cathartic. Triosteum Perfoliatum, Bastard Ipecacuanha, Pen- tand. Monog. Radix. This plant is sometimes called Fever-wort. The bark of the root is a good cathartic, in doses of from twenty to thirty grains : when it is given in larger do- ses than this, it sometimes proves emetic. This plant is deserving of the particular regard of medical men in this country. As an article belonging to this class 182 of medicines, it may be found useful in a iiumber of diseases. Nicotiana Tabacum, Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. The smoke of tobacco when thrown into the intes- tines, will often be found competent of producing eva- cuations, when the most prompt and active cathartics fail. The infusion may likewise be made use of in order to procure evacuation by stool. A drachm of tobacco, to a pint of warm water is a sufficient quantity. Too much caution cannot, however, be exercised in ap- plying either the smoke or the infusion. Their ap- plication in this way, should only be had recourse to, when other cathartic medicines are ineffectual. Nicotiana Rustica, common green Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. This article may be used in the same way, and for similar purposes. Convolvulous Panduratus, Wild Potatoe-vine, Pen- tand. Monog, Radix. As a mild cathartic, the root of this plant may be given in the dose of forty grains. It may be found useful when the milder articles of this class are recom- mended. 183 Asclepias Tuberosa, Pleurisy-root, Pentand. Digyn. Radix. This species of asclepias is known by the names of Swallow-wort, Butterfly-weed, &c. The powdered root is a mild purgative in the dose of thirty or forty grains : but as such I believe it is seldom made use of in practice. Rumex Acutex, Narrow Dock, Hexand. Trigy. Radix. The root of this plant operates moderately on the bowels. It is, however, seldom used, unless in do- mestic practice ; and then it is generally exhibited in the form of infusion. The seeds are represented to have been found useful in the dysentery ; and the con- tused root when made into an ointment is stated to be a good application in the itch. Cassia Marilandica, American Senna, Decand. Mo- nog. Folia. Few of our native cathartics appear to deserve more attention than this plant. It is quite common in the southern and western states. It seems to delight in a sandy soil; and it may be cultivated without much dif- ficulty from the seed. Professor W. P. C. Barton says, as a cathartic, it is " little, if at all inferior to the senna of the shops, and is doubtless one of the most important of our indigenous medicines." He also re- marks, " 1 have substituted it for the Alexandria sen- na, and have reason to confirm the high character 184 which it has long maintained." Doctor Eberle ob- serves, " I have very frequently employed it instead of the officinal senna, and have always found it a cer- tain and safe purgative." And furthermore, that, " the predominant constituents of the leaves of this plant are resin, and a volatile substance." It is generally ex- hibited in the form of infusion, and with a view of ob- viating the griping which it sometimes produces ; a portion of fennel, anise, or any other carminative may be added. I have frequently made use of it, and have in the ge- nerality of instances been pleased with its evacuating effects; perhaps upon the whole, as much so as the Alexandria senna. The dried leaves and follicles may be used ; these should be collected when the pods have arrived at maturity. The dose is rather larger than the senna of the shops. Podophyllum Peltatum, May-apple, Polyand. Monog. Radix. This plant is known by a variety of appellations, such as Wild Lemons, Mandrake, Ipecacuanha, &c. It is quite common in almost every part of the United States. The fruit is esculent, and by many thought to be delicious. The leaves are poisonous. I have been in the habit of employing the root of the Podo- phyllum Peltatum for some time in practice, and 1 do not hesitate a moment in giving it the preference to Jallap. Twenty grains, in the generality of cases, 185 will be found sufficient to operate as a cathartic ; but the dose may be increased to thirty grains, without its being attended with any drastic effects. It is a well known fact, to all who have witnessed the^ariety of forms which bilious fevers occasionally assume, and to whose charge the treatment of these cases of disease have been committed, that the more drastic articles belonging to the class of cathartic me- dicines, such as the sub. myr. hyd. combined with the pulv. rad. jalap, &c. appear to be more slow and un- certain in their effects, than the milder saline pur- gatives. The sub. mur. hyd. cum jalap, I have fre- quently (during the prevalence of the epidemic inter- mittent fever of the fall of the year 1821,) given in very large doses, and repeated, without any of its evacuating powers being in the least degree obtained, and have consequently afterwards had to give a solution of the sulph. mag. before my patient's bowels would become freely moved. The rad. podop. peltat. cum sub. mur. hyd. is seldom, in these cases, subject to this inconve- nience. It will be found, when given in the dose of fifteen grains of the former, and ten of the latter, in the generality of cases, productive of the happiest re- sults. It is by no means so subject to produce griping as jalap and calomel when combined, though perhaps rather more apt to operate sursum et deorsum. From its use for a very considerable length of time, I havd not been able to discover that this root possesses any anthelmintic properties, though 1 have, in a variety of 24 186 Cases, given it a fair trial, in order to satisfy my mind upon the opinion of its supposed vermifuge qualities. I have sometimes given it alone, but have not found it as useful as when combined with the mur. hyd. nit. 2640 grains of the recent root lost in drying 1630 grf ins, audfrom 3126 grains of the recent root, 1 obtained 300 grains of alcoholic extract: and from the same quan- tity of recent root, 377 watery extract. These ex- tracts possess considerable activity, and may be given in doses of from ten to twelve grains. All the writers on the subject of the cathartic opera- tion of this plant, speak more or less, in attestation of its purgative effects. Doctor Burgon remarks, " its operation in all cases in which I have administered it, is slower than that of jalap, but it leaves the bowels longer in a lax and soluble condition." He likewise says, "1 once took twenty grains at four o'clock, P. M. which gave me no disturbance till the next morning, when its operation commenced, and produced conti- nual motions all that day, and part of the next night, together with severe tormina ; this was the first dose of podophyllum I had ever administered ; and its ef- fects being so decided, I have since prescribed it in a multitude of cases, and for the most part, with similar results." Doctor Bigelow concludes, that " the me- dical properties of the podophyllum peltatum are those of a sure and active cathartic ;" and Doctor Eberle says, «I have myself given it very frequently instead of jalap, and have always found it active and safe in its 187 operation. It is, however," he furthermore observes, " more drastic and apt to gripe than jalap ; nor does it appear to be so prompt in its effects as a cathartic." Professor Chapman states, that "as a purgative, it resembles jalap, and I think, in a similar dose it is scarcely less active or effectual." The root of this plant is undoubtedly a purgative of no inconsiderable degree of activity, and equally enti- tled to the notice of the American medical practitioner, with some in use among us, which are of exotic ori- gin. Professor B. S. Barton, who it appears had great confidence in the cathartic powers of the root of the pel- tatum, has observed, "that it has been thought by some practitioners to whom he had made known the use of the medicine, to be especially adapted as a purge in cases of intermittents, remittents and dropsy." Some of the medical practitioners of this country oc- casionally exhibit it in conjunction with the Cremor Tartari, and it is said with good effect. Doctor Stephen Burgon, of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, ob serves, that "the powdered root" of the podophyl- lum peltatum •'* is extensively employed as a cathar- tic in bilious complaints ; and," that he is " per- suaded with as much success as the jalap." He fur- thermore remarks, " 1 have often prescribed it with calomel, in the proportion of 20 grains of the former, to 8 or 10 of the latter; and I have uniformly been 188 pleased with its effects ou my patients." He also says, " in this dose it is extremely prompt and efficacious."* Anona Triloba, Papaw, Polyaud. Polygynia, Fructus. The tree that produces the fruit commonly called papaw, or custard-apple, is not uncommon in the va- rious sections of the United States. This fruit is es- culent, and by mauy persons considered delicious. It, when eaten in ordinary quantities, operates mode- rately upon the bowels ; and it may therefore, be con- sidered a useful eccoproctic remedy in many cases, particularly, in the affections in which the pruen may be used with advantage. The fruit may be eaten in its recent state; or after having been dried. Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Bone-set, Syng. Polyg. iEqualis, Herba. We are informed by Doctor Thacher, that " an in- fusion" of this plant, " has long been esteemed as an efficacious remedy in bilious colic accompanied by ob- stinate constipation, and" that "it is directed to the quantity of a teacupful every half hour until it pro- duce a cathartic effect." The cold infusion is un- doubtedly preferable, as, when given warm, with this view, it i? apt U, excite emesis. * American Medical Recorder, vol. 3, ior 1820, page 331. 189 Juglans Cinerea, Butternut, Monoicia, Polyand. Liber Radicis. The extract, when properly prepared from the bark of the root of this tree, is a purgative of no inconsidera- ble value, in the doses of from ten to twenty grains. Doctor Ansel W. Ives, says, "its action seems to he more like that of rhcubarb, than any other article quickening the peristaltic motion without inducing sub- sequent debility, and torpor of the bowels." We are informed by Doctor John R. Cox, that «* during the American war, the extract made from the inner bark of this tree, attracted the attention of Doctor Rush, and other medical men in our military hospital ; and being frequently administered to patients under the operation of inoculated small pox; it was proved to be an excel- lent substitute for jalap and other cathartics." He like- wise says, "conjoined with calomel it is rendered more active and efficacious, especially in bilious habits." The extract of the bark of the cinerea should be pre- pared with great care, otherwise, it is apt to lose in a great measure its activity. When made by the coun- try people, this is not unfrequently the case. The apothecaries are the persons by whom the extract should be made, so that its activity may be preserved. In several instances, I have employed this remedy, both alone, and in conjunction with calomel; and that with very happy effects. I have seldom found its use succeeded by, or accompanied writh tormina. 190 Doctor Tliacher states, that "a decoction of the in- ner bark is advantageously employed as a cathartic in the disease of horses called the yellow iratcr.^ CHAPTER X Emmenagogues. But few of our native productions appear to be en- titled to a place in the class of emmenagogues. It, however, appears rather doubtful, whether any of the articles strictly considered as belonging to this class of remediate agents, operate specifically, or directly upon the uterine system, in producing the effects pe- culiar to their administration in suppressed catamenia ; for, by making the necessary inquiry, in order to be- come acquainted with the history, and treatment of the various cases, that present themselves to the con- sideration of the erudite, and extensive practising phy- sician, this disease will, in the generality of instan- ces, be found to owe its existence, and occurrence to a super-tonic, or sub-tonic state of the complicated phy- sical machinery of man; an equalized action throughout every part of which, seems to be essentially necessary to ensure health, happiness, and life. 191 It would also seem reasonable to conclude, that no articles operate directly upon the uterus, from the cir- cumstance of the adoption of the depleting plan, having from experience been found sufficiently adequate to its removal in the former state of the system ; and from the happy effects which result from the exhibition of tonic remedies, when the affection owes its existence to a state of general relaxation or debility. Furthermore, if the catameuia be a secretion, which it is supposed but few will seem disposed to doubt; we are very naturally led to conclude, that by paying the necessary degree of attention in the direction of bur remedies, to the state of the general system, that this secretion may be brought on. Then the suppo- sed sentiment of the utility of this class of medicines depending on the immediate, or direct action which they exert on the uterus, cannot be well founded ; par- ticularly as some of them display in their operation the power of increasing the vis atergo, while others give tone to the animal body: and another set of agents, by their peculiar operation, diminishing undue plethoric action, and restoring the system to the per- formance of its various destined functions; and thereby removing suppressed catamenia. Emmenagogues. Cunila Pulegoides Pennyroyal Polygala Senega Seneka 102 Cunila Pulegoides, Pennyroyal, Diand. Monog. Planta. I have given this herb a place among this class of medicines, on account of its being esteemed as an em- menagogue by the country people. How far it is worthy of notice in this respect, must be left for future experiments and observation to determine. I have found an infusion of the herb, a valuable medicine in certain cases of diarrhoea. A little sugar may some- times be added to make it more palatable. Polygala Senega, Seneka, Diadelph. Octaud. Radix. The medical community is indebted to Doctor Harts- home of Philadelphia, for a knowledge of the emmen- agogue powers of this interesting and useful indige- nous production. Professor Chapman says, that he has employed it, " both in" his " public and private practice, to a considerable extent, and with sufficient success to warrant" him "in recommending it as one of the most active, certain and valuable of the emmen- agogues." An infusion prepared from one ounce of the contused root, in a pint of boiling water, should be commenced with a few days prior to the regular period of menstruation. 193 CHAPTER XL Di uretics. Our native diuretics appear to be entitled to the re- gard and attention of the American medical practition- er. Some of these act with considerable certainty and promptness of effect; and will consequently be found well suited to many cases, in which the Digita- lis Purpurea; the Scilte Maritima; the Colcbisum Autuinnale ; with several other diuretics of exotic ori- gin, which have been successfully employed. Their promoting an increase of the urinary dis- charge, renders them remedies very often of consider- able importance in the treatment of dropsical affections. They are sometimes also resorted to in calculous cases ; but* I am disposed to conclude, that, in these affections, they are productive of less general good, than they are in the diseases just cited.—In the stranguary, which is often the result of the application of blisters, and which is. always more or less unpleasant to the pa- tient, I have prescribed some of the articles belong- ing to this class, with the most decided and unequivo- cal success. The action of this set of remedies, are generally displayed in a direct ratio to the deficiency which is evident at the time of their exhibition in the perspira- 25 194 tory process ; hence the necessity of keeping the body cool, in order thereby to facilitate their operation the more promptly and effectually. The following articles belonging to the class of our iudigenous diuretics, will be noticed in the order in which they are arranged. Diuretics. Iris Versicolor Ilex Vomitoria Nicotiana Tabacum Nicotiana Rustica Triosteum Perfoliatum Convolvulous Panduratus Eryngium Zuccifolium Daucus Carota Chimaphila Umbellata Polygala Senega Lobelia Syphilitica Eupatorium Purpureuin Juniperus Virginiana Humulus Lupulus Variegated Iris. South-Sea-Tea Tobacco Common green Tobacco Bastard Ipecacuanha Wild Potatoe-vine Eryngo Wild Carrot Pippsissewa Seneka Blue Cardinal Flower Trumpetweed Common Red Cedar Common Hop Iris Versicolor, Variegated Iris, Triand. Monog. Ra- dix. This production has been noticed under the head of cathartics. It is likewise diuretic ; and may be given in the form of infusion and decoction.* * Doctor Thacher in speaking of this root, observes, that it pos- sesses " the properties of a diuretic, and administered in moderate 195 Ilex Vomitoria, South-Sea Tea, Tetrand. Tetragynia, Planta. The article under consideration, certainly possess- es to a certain extent, the power of promoting the ac- tion of the kidneys. For this reason, it has been in- troduced into the present class, although, I believe it is seldom employed in practice. Nicotiana Tabacum, Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. This article, possesses in an eminent degree, diuret- ic properties. With a view to its producing this ef- fect, it has been exhibited in dropsy and dysuria ; and the various writers on the subject, speak favourably in attestation of its efficacy. The principal disadvan- tage attending its administration, is that, of its not un- frequently exciting considerable vertigo and much nausea. The dose of the tincture is from fifteen to twenty drops. Nicotinia Rustica, Common green Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. This plant, as has heretofore been observed, is rather milder than the Nicotinia Tabacum, and is conse- quently better adapted as a medicine than this article. doses, in the form of decoction or tincture, it has proved efficacious in anasarca and other dropsical affections." 196 Triosteum Perfoliatum, Bastard Ipecacuanha, Pen- tand. Monog. Radix. The bark of the root of this plant, 1 have had occa- sion to notice under the head ot cathartics. It is also diuretic : but perhaps it is hardly worthy of notice on this account. Convolvulous Pauduratus, Wild Potatoe-vine, Pen- tand. Monog. Radix. This root is considerably diuretic. It has been greatly recommended in cases of gravel. It may be used in substance or decoction. Eryngium Zuccifolium, Eryngo, Pentand. Monog. Radix. This species of Eryngium is nearly allied in its me- dicinal character, to the Eryngium Maritimum ; being but slightly diuretic in its operation. Daucus Carota, Wild Carrot, Pentand. Digynia. Ra- dix. Semina. The wild carrot grows abundantly in the various sections of the United States. A decoction of the root and seed, may be considered a valuable diuretic. It is one of the best means of relieving the stranguary arising from blisters. The decoction may be drank to the extent of a pint a day. 197 Chimaphila Umbellata, Pippsissewa, Decand. Monog. Herba. The Chimaphila Umbellata has, within a very few years, attracted much of the attention of the physicians of this country, on account of its diuretic property, which it certainly possesses in an eminent degree. It has been advantageously employed, as a remedy in anascarcous and other dropsies; and the attestations in favour of its efficacy are many. Doctor Somerville has paid much attention to its effects upon the system; and from the result of his observations, we are justly warranted in asserting it to be certain, prompt, and effectual as a remedy of this kind ; and equally com- petent with many of the articles belonging to this class, to the removal of some of the diseases, in which diuret- ic remedies have been successfully exhibited. He considers it justly entitled to a respectable rank in the catalogue of remedies for dropsies.* Many physi- cians both in Europe and America, have employed it subsequent to this period ; the most of which, speak in confirmation of its valuable operation in this way. B>om my own experience I know nothing of its opera. tion as a diuretic. It is mostly given in the form of a strong decoction, to the extent of a pint a day. The dose of the extract is from ten grains to a scruple, giveu twice or thrice in twenty-four hours. • Vide Medico-Chirurgical Transactions of London, vol. 5. 198 Lobelia Syphilitica, Blue Cardinal Flower, Syng. Monog. Radix. The root of this species of Lobelia is said to be con- siderably diuretic; and Mr. Pearson found that it ge- nerally disagreed with the stomach, and it seldom fail- ed of affecting the bowels as a strong cathartic. It cer- tainly possesses no power of curing syphilis ; even the Indians, when they have the disease, are glad of an opportunity of applying to the whites. Eupatorium Purpureum, Trumpet-weed, Syng. Polyg. iEqualis, Radix. Doctor Thacher says, that " this plant is an excel- lent diuretic, affording great relief in dysuria, and other affections of the urinary passages, increasing the secretion of urine in dropsy, &c." An infusion of the root may be used freely of, until its diuretic ef- fects are induced ; which should be kept up a sufficient length of time to test its efficacy. Juniperus Virginiana, Common Red Cedar Tree, Dioecia, Monadel. Baccae. A tincture prepared from the leaves as well as ber- ries of this tree, is a valuable diuretic; and no doubt will be found useful in a number of affections, in which medicines of this class are recommended. 199 Humulus Lupulus, Common Hop, Dioecia, Pentand. Stroboli Siccata. An infusion of the hop is a pretty good diuretic. It will often afford relief in stranguary, arising from the application of blisters—The infusion may be taken freejy of. CHAPTER Xll. Diaphoretics. The class of our indigenous vegetable diaphoretics, is somewhat interesting; from which there is but little doubt, several remedies may be selected, that will be found well adapted to a number of affections, in which the customary medicines of this kind which are used among physicians, are not unfrequently employed with the happiest results. It is however to be regretted, that the generality of our native productions, belonging to the vegetable kingdom, have not been sufficiently extensively resorted to in practice, to confirm the utility of such as are worthy of attention ; and to cause such as are unworthy of notice, to be rejected, as either being inert, or possessing too little activity to entitle them to a place in the Materia Medica. It is nevertheless to 200 be hoped, that the time is not far distaut, when every American medical practitioner, will conceive it not only as an accomplishment, to be acquainted with the me- dical botany of his country, but in some degree essen- tially necessary to ensure him success in the discharge of his professional duties, whenever he may.be placed in situations in which the articles common in practice, cannot be procured at a time, in which they are most desirable to be administered. Diaphoretics. Eryngium Aquaticum Water Eryngo Asclepias Toberosa Pleurisy-root Asarum Canadense Wild Ginger Sophoria Tinctoria Wild Indigo Euphorbia Corollata Large flowering Spurge Sanguinaria Canadensis Puccoon Laurus Sassafras Sassafras Eupatorium Perfoliatum Bone-set Eryngium Aquaticum, Water Eryngo, Pentand. Mo- nog. Planta. The Eryngium Aquaticum is a stimulating diaphoret- ic. It is nearly allied to the contrayerva of the shops. The southern indians are in the habit of using it in the form of decoction. 201 Asclepias Tuberosa, Pleurisy-root, Ptntand. Digy. Radix. We have perhaps, no indigenous diaphoretic, be- longing to the vegetable kingdom, that is more prompt and certain in its operation, than this species of ascle- pias. This beautiful and highly ornamental plant, seems first to have attracted the attention of a Mr. Thomson Mason of Virginia, whose experience of its virtues in Pleuritis, has been such, as to have given rise to a disposition, among the members of the profes- sion, to investigate its powers more fully. Mr. Mason is in the habit of prescribing it in the following man- ner : after the use of an antimonial emetic, and the loss of some blood, he gives his patients about half a drachm of the finely powdered root in a cup of warm water, and repeats the dose every two hours, until the patient is perfectly recovered, which generally hap- pens in about three days. He asserts that by using it with^tie adoption of the preceding plan, he has cured hundreds without having failed in one instance of suc- cess. The worthy Doctor Richard Hopkins, of Maryland, informed me, that he had frequently used the root of the Tuberosa, with a view of producing a determina- tion to the surface ; and that, with the most decided and unequivocal benefit. He esteems it a valuable di- aphoretic. Professor Coxe, considers it " a valuable addition to the Materia Medica, having been found to 36 202 possess medicinal virtues of no inconsiderable impor- tance."* A number of physicians speak in support of the beneficial effects that have resulted from its admi- nistration, in similar cases of the disease under con- sideration, in which they have directed its use. It possesses the power of producing a copious and free discharge from the skin, without increasing the heat of the surface ; which circumstance gives to it a deci- ded preference as a remedy in affections, in which ve- nesection and the other antiphlogistic means are indica* ted. Asarum Canadense, Wild Ginger, Dodecand. Monog. Radix. This plant, is known also by the names of Colt's foot, Indian Ginger, &c. The root is considerably more aromatic, than that of the Aristolochia Serpenta- ria; and rather less so than ginger. When given in very large doses, its action is that of a stimulating di- aphoretic ; and will be found a useful remedy in diseas- es, in which a deficiency of excitement exists, with a dry surface. It may, however, be more usefully em- ployed in such cases, when exhibited in conjunction with the snake root. Sophora Tinctoria, Wild Indigo, Decand. Monog. Ra- dix. Planta. An infusion of this plant sometimes operates as a sod or i tic. * American Dispensatory, page 117. 203 Euphorbia Corollata, Large flowering Spurge, Dodec. Trygy. Radix. This plant I had occasion to notice more particular- ly under the head of emetics. As a diaphoretic, it may be employed in a number of diseases in which these medicines are recommended. The dose of the pow- dered root is about four grains, to be repeated every three hours, until its effects are produced. Sanguinaria Canadensis, Puccoon, Polyand. Monog. Radix. The plant under consideration, is well worthy of the attention of the American medical practitioner, on ac- count of its diaphoretic powers. Much indeed has been said of its operation in this way ; and that from the most respectable and credible sources; particularly when it has been used in cases of acute rheumatism. Doctor Nathan Smith, speaks of it in the following manner, and observes, " I have found a remedy which has done more in cases of acute rheumatism, than all other internal remedies which I have seen used in that disease. This is the Sanguinaria Canadensis, or blood- root. 1 have given it in infusion and tincture with laudanum. The dose of blood-root, should be as large as can be borne on the stomach without proving an emetic, combined with a dose of laudanum, adapt- ed to the circumstances of the patient. This dose should be repeated twice or thrice a day. When the 204 tincture of blood root is used, the dose may be a tea- spoonful to begin with ; which must be increased till the patient feels the effects sensibly. When the in- fusion is used, half a table spoonful will be sufficient for the first dose."* Doctor Ansel W. Ives, whose name 1 have had occasion to introduce into this work several times; and who appears to have paid no small share of attention to the medicinal operation of some of our indigenous vegetable productions, makes the following remark, in relation to the effects of this substance, upon the animal economy. " From a care- ful examination of what written testimony appears to have founded on personal observation, and from pret- ty extensive experience of the effects of this article, in numerous forms and in various stages of disease, 1 am of opinion, that when taken iu doses as large as the stomach will quietly retain, and under circum- stances favourable to its operation; its modus operan- di is most conspicuous in allaying morbid irritability of the heart and arteries, thereby diminishing the fre- quency of the pulse, and in increasing bronchial and cutaneous secretion."! In the sub-acute stage of a number of affections, the Doctor appears to have di- rected the internal administration of this remedy, with the most beneficial results. Its use in the generality of instances, should be confined more particularly to * See his edition of « a Treatise on Febrile diseases, &c." By A. P W Philip, M D. F. R. S. &c. vol 2, page 251. fVide his edition of Paris's Pharmacologia, vol. 2, pa^e 28l<. 205 this, than any other state of the system ; for in all ca~ ses, unless depletion, both general and local, has been resorted to, when necessary previous to its exhibition, very little good may be expected to result from its operation. 1 have, under these circumstances, found it admirably adapted to the treatment of cases of acute rheumatism ; and indeed, 1 can safely say, that I con- ceive it one of the .most efficacious and valuable medi- cines included in the Materia Medica for the speedy removal of this truly distressing, and not unfrequently troublesome malady. For a more particular view of its affects that I have noticed in this disease, I beg leave to refer the reader to the " Philadelphia Jour- nal of the Medical and Physical Sciences," No. 12. page, 297. Laurus Sassafras, Sassafras, Enneand. Monog. Lig- num. An infusion or decoction of the sassafras, when drank freely of, is slightly stimulant and diaphoretic. It is sometimes added to decoctions of Mezereon, Guaiac, and some other diaphoretic remedies. It is, I believe, not very often used iu practice with a view to its producing this effect. Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Bone-set, Syngen. Polyg. iEqualis, Herba et Flo. The Eupatorium Perfoliatum has attracted the at- tention of some of our medical practitioners as a di- 206 aphoretic remedy, in several of the diseases in which the articles of this class are supposed to have been competent to produce good effects. Of its salutary ef- fects, 1 can say nothing, from ray own experience, of its operation in this way. Doctor Eberle says, " as a diaphoretic it may gene- rally be employed with much benefit in catarrhal fe- vers." He further remarks, " in slight cases of this kind, a weak infusion of it, drank warm on going to bed, will often remove the disease very speedily."* Doctor Chapman in his remarks on this production, ob- serves, " that many years ago, we had throughout the United States, a species of influenza, which, in conse- quence of the sort of pain attending it, came to be de- nominated break-hone fever. The Eupatorium, acting as a diaphoretic, so promptly relieved this peculiar symptom, that it acquired the popular title oi bone set "f Some writers have recommended its use in rheuma- tism. * Materia Medica and Therapeutics, vol. 2, page 235. ' t Elements of Therapeutics and Materia Medica, vol. 1, page 430. 207 CHAPTER XIII. Expectorants. We cannot but be impressed with the sentiment of the utility, that is derived from whatever means that may be successfully resorted to, with a view to the allevi ation, and irradication of the affections which not unfrequently attack the lungs and their appendages. Impressed With the intimacy that exists in connexion with the various functions, which regulate, and control the complicated structure of the human body, and these parts ; we are irresistably compelled to acknowledge them, as being destined to perform very important offi- ces. There is no inconsiderable difficulty presents itself, in attempting to give a correct idea of the modus ope- randi of the medicinal agents, which are comprised in the class of expectorants; and, inasmuch, as theories which are not attested by incontrovertible experiments, are infinitely better calculated to please, than to be productive of practical benefit to the physician ; and as the number of pages which has been allotted for the present volume, having been already encreased in number; a view cannot consequently be taken on the subject of their mode of operation—Expectorants may 208 be considered such remedies, as augment the bron- chial secretions, in conjunction with their facilitating the excretions of those secretions by expectoration. " The changes induced in the system, from the prima- ry effects of expectorants, are, an alteration in the state of the mucus excreted to a more thin and fluid consistence : an increase of the sensibility of the lungs ; free circulation through the blood-vessels of the secre- ting glands ; and the evacuation of those cavities in the lungs in which mucus is deposited " Expectorants may be divided into the nauseating, as squills, gum-ammoniac, and garlic ; the antispasmodic, as blisters, feet and vapour-baths ; and irritative, as acid vapours, and the common smoking of tobacco. " The indications these medicines are capable of fulfilling may be traced as follows: 1. From their affecting the secretion of mucus ; whence they may be used, to pro- mote the secretion of mucus by the lungs, when mor- bidly diminished there ; to render the mucus of the lungs thinner, when morbidly thick and viscid. 2. From their affecting the excretion of mucus; whence they may be employed, to evacuate morbid ac- cumulations of mucus in the lungs ; to supply irrita- tion to the lungs when morbidly deficient. 8. From their affecting the state of the lungs themselves ; whence they may be employed as local stimulants." 209 Expectorants. Nicotiana Rustica Common green Tobacco Nicotiana Tabaccum Tobacco Asclepias Syriaca Common Silk-weed Asclepias Tuberosa Pleurisy-root Statice Caroliniana Marsh Rosemary Euphorbia Corollata Large flowering Spurge Sanguinaria Canadensis Puccoon Polygala Senega Seneka Lobelia Inflata Emetic-Weed Arum Triphyllum Indian Turnip Nicotiana Rustica, Common green Tobacco, Pen- tand. Monogy. Folia. The Nicotiana Rustica may be considered a safer expectorant than the Nicotiana Tabaccum. It should, consequently, be preferred, whenever the employment of either of these substances may be deemed proper. The mode of administering it, is the same as the Ta- baccum. Nicotiana Tabaccum, Tobacco, Pentand. Monogy. Folia. This article has been celebrated in humoral asthma, and chronic catarrh, in the form of the watery extract, exhibited in the quantity of from one, to two, and three grains. It is not improbable, but what it operates in these affections on the same principle as the Digitalis Purpurea, in as much as its action on the animal econo- 27 210 my is very analogous to this article. It is, 1 believe, however, seldom used in practice with a view to the al- leviation of these diseases. Asclepias Syriaca, Common Silk-weed, Pent. Digy. Rad. Cort. The root of the Asclepias Syriaca, in the hands of some of our physicians, has proved itself to be a valua- ble expectorant: but it has failed to produce this ef feet, though it has been frequently given by others. Dr. Abijah Richardson, of Medway, Massachusetts, has been induced to try the effects of this species. He gave the cortical part of the root in powder, one drachm in a day, in divided doses, and also in strong infusion.—An asthmatic patient was much benefited by its use. In one case of typhus fever with catarrhal affection of the throat and bronchiae, it rendered the expectoration more copious, and the matter thicker and more digested. In both cases it had an anodyne ef- fect, the patients were relieved from pain, from dysp- noea and cough, and expectoration became easier, and sleep more refreshing. 1 can say nothing of the virtues of this plant from my own experience, in a medical point of view.* * The young shoots of the Syriaca, which emanate from the earth's surface in the spring season of the year, when served up in the same manner as the Asparagus Officinalis of Linnaeus (or As- paragus, common sparage, or sparrow-grass,) is equally dehcious with this article. 211 \sclepias Tuberosa, Pleurisy-root, Pent. Digy. Radix. This species of Asclepias is a pretty good expecto- rant. The powdered root is the part that is made use of, or a syrup formed by adding to a decoction of the root, a sufficient quantity of sugar. It has been been useful in affections of the thorax. Statice Caroliniana, Marsh Rosemary, Pentand. Pentagy. Radix. This plant which I had occasion to mention under the head of emetics ; is a powerful expectorant, but 1 do not know whether it is used as such in practice. Euphorbia Corollata, Large flowering Spurge, Dodec. Trigy. Radix. As an expectorant, the powdered root may be given in the dose of three grains, occasionally. Sanguinaria Canadensis, Puccoon, Polyand. Monog. Radix. This plant is deserving of a place among this class of medicines ; the root is a pretty good expectorant, in the dose of a grain or two occasionally. 212 Polygala Senega, Seneka, Diadelphia Octandria. Radix. Seneka is frequently employed as an expectorant in pneumonia, after the highly inflammatory stage of the disease is subdued. The dose of the powdered root is from ten to twenty grains, but it is generally given in the form of decoction. It has of late days become a very fashionable remedy in the treatment of Cynanche Trachealis ; in this common, and (too frequently) un- manageable disease, it has proved itself to be a valua- ble medicine. The Polygala Senega possesses not on- ly emetic and expectorant virtues, but also, diuretic, diaphoretic, and cathartic ; some have likewise em- ployed the root in hydroptic cases, and not without success. There are examples of its occasioning a plentiful evacuation by stool, urine and perspiration, and by this means removing the disease, after the com- mon diuretics and hydagogues had failed. The Senegora Indians are said to prevent the fa- tal effects of the bite of the rattlesnake, by giving it in- ternally, and by applying it externally to the wound. Lobelia Inflata, Emetic-weed, Syng. Monog. Folia. As an expectorant the emetic-weed has been found useful in consumptive and other coughs, depending upon mucous accumulated in the bronchial vessels by exciting nausea and expectoration. It no doubt will be found serviceable in a number of diseases, in which such medicines are recommended. 218 Arum Tryphyllum, Indian Turnip, Monoicice Poly. Radix. This plant is known also by the names of wake ro- bin, dragon root, &c. The acrimony of the root is well known to every person that is acquainted with it.* By drying, nearly all of this is lost. It has been recommended in the asthma, in Cynan- che Trachealis, and in Purtusis. The root boiled in milk, has been found useful in Phthisis Pulmonalis, but it should be given internal- ly with great caution in its recent state.f The pow- dered root may be given, after its volatile principle has become dissipated, in doses of from twelve to six- ty grains, two or three times a day. * Professor Bigelow says, " the acrid property which resides in this and other species of arum, appear s to depend upon a distinct vegetable principle, at present but little understood. " It is" he furthermore remarks, " extremely volatile, and disappears almost entirely by heat, drying, or simple exposure to air," and that it possesses " no affinity for water, alcohol, or oil, being volatile, and in a state of gas inflammable." t The learned, and indefatigable Professor Eberle, in his valuable Materia Medica and Therapeutics, remarks,'" that in chronic asthmatic affections of old people," the Arum Tryphillum, " is a remedy of very considerable value;" and, that he has also '• seen it do good in chronic catarrhs, and in Phthisis Pulmonalis." 214 CHAPTER XIV. Sialagogues. SiALAfiocuKS are such medicines as excite an uncom- mon flow of saliva, by stimulating the salivary glands, or their excretories ; and thereby produce the effect peculiar to their administration, or local application. They have been divided into topical and geueral siala- gogues. Sialagogues. Aralia Spinosa Prickly ash Chimaphila Umbellata Pippsissewa Chimaphila Maculata Spotted leaved Pippsissewa Polygala Senega Seneka Aralia Spinosa, Prickly Ash, Pentand, Pentagynia, Cortex. This is the Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis of Lin- neus; and the Zanthoxylum Fraxinifolium of Mar- shall. It is also known by the common name of tooth ache tree. The bark of this tree is a powerful stimulant, and when applied to the mouth and internal fauces, it oc- casions a copious' flow of saliva. The berries are used to put into a hollow tooth when aching; a decoc- tion prepared from the bark, has been celebrated for 215 the cure of rheumatic affections. In some parts, a spi- rituous infusion of the berries is esteemed as a reme- dy, by the country people, in cases of a violent colic. We have another species of this genus : viz. the Zanthoxylum Tricarpum of Michaux ; its virtues are uot well ascertained. Chimaphila Umbellata, Pippsissewa, Decand. Monog. Radix. The root of this plant when chewed, excites a sense of heat, and an increased flow of saliva ; and by the country people, it is used in this way; and it is said to afford relief from pain in tooth ache. Chimaphila Maculata, Spotted leaved Pippsissewa, Decand. Monog. Radix. The root of this species of Chimaphila operates al- so as a sialagogue. Polygala Senega, Seneka, Diadelph. Octand. Radix. I have given the seneka a place under the present head, in as much as its internal exhibition is sometimes followed by a profuse salivation. Doctor B. S. Bar- ton, states a case of hydrothorax complicated with anasarca, which came under his notice, where the pa- tient was profusely salivated by the use of a strong decoction of the seneka. 216 CHAPTER XV. Errhines. Errhines are medicines, which when applied to the Shneiderian membrane of the nose, excites sneezing and increases the secretion of mucous. The actiou of these medicines, differ in relation to the impression which they produce upon the parts with which they are brought into contact; some inflaming the mem- brane more or less, and induce a sense of heat; while others display no such effects. Murray in noticing this subject, states, that " It is evident, that the effects of this class of remedies must be very limited, as applied to the treatment of disease. By the evacuation they occasion, it has been supposed that they diminish the quantity of fluid circulating in the neighbouring vessels; hence they have been infer- red to be useful in rheumatic affections of the muscles of these parts, and in toothe ach. It has even been sup- posed, that their effects may extend to all the branches of the external carotid, and Dr. Cullen mentions, that he has, apparently from this opetaration, known head- ach, pain of the ear, and some cases of ophthalmia, cured or relieved by the use of errhines. He has like- wise supposed, that they may have been of use in pre- • £17 venting apoplexy or palsy : this at least should, he re- marks, be so far attended to, that when any ap- proach to these diseases is suspected, the drying of the mucous discharge should be attended to, and if possible obviated." Errhines. Nicotiana Tabaccum Tobacco Nicotiana Rustica Common green Tobacco Asarum Canadense Wild Ginger Sanguinaria Canadensis Puccoon Myrica Cerifera Candleberry myrtle Nicotiana Tabaccum, Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. The powdered leaves of Tobacco act as an errhine, in persons who are unaccustomed to its use. Nicotiana Rustica, Common green Tobacco, Pentand. Monog. Folia. This plant is competent to the production of analo- gous effects, with the species just noticed. Asarum Canadense, Wild Ginger, Dodec. Monog. Folia. The powdered leaves of this plant are considerably errhine, and may be found useful in the cases in which these remedies are used. 28 218 Sanguinaria Canadensis, Puccoon, Poly. Monog. Radix. The powdered root of the Sanguinaria Canadensis, snuffed up the nose, is errhine; and as such, it may be found useful in some cases where these medicines are recommended. Myrica Cerifera, Candleberry Myrtle, Dioecia. Te- trand. Cortex. The powdered bark of this singular production, is a powerful sternutatory. I do not know that it has ever been introduced into practice. CHAPTER XVI. Epispastics and Rubifacients. Epispastics may be defined such medicines, as when applied to the surface of the human body, produce in- flammation and vesication ; and Rubifacients, such sub- stances as produce only inflammation. The pain and in- flammation which is the result of the application of both of these medical agents, differs in violence, in conse- quence of the one displaying a greater degree of ac- 219 tion than the other—Rubifacients are therefore attend- ed with less of these unpleasant effects, than Epispas- tics. The inflammation which is produced on the skin by the immediate application of blisters to any particular part, causes a thin serous fluid to be poured out from the exhalents, which raises the cuticle from the true skin, and, thereby causes the formation of a vesicle. This effect is the result of their strong stimulating ac- tion ; and, to this stimulant operation, and the pain which they produce, may be attributed the happy consequences which are effected by their application in the treatment of the various affections which require them to be employed.—Different are the sentiments among medical men in relation to the precise manner in which blisters act upon parts remote from the seat of their application. They may, however, be consider- ed as producing their beneficial effects, in local dis- eases, upon the principle of their acting as counter irri- tants. They, therefore, by producing a more extensive de- gree of inflammation upon the parts to which they are applied, than that which exists in the parts which are labouring under local inflammation, divert the diseased action to the surface on which their impressions are made, hence the utility of using large blisters. In this way we may venture to explain " the effica- cy of blisters in all cases of inflammation and of spas- modic constriction ; a new inflammation being excited 220 by the blister which occasions derivation of action. Hence, too, the advantage obtained is greater when the blister is applied as near as possible to the part affected. This principle regulates the application of blisters in pneumonia, hepatitis, phrenitis, angina, opthalmia, rheumatism, and every other case of active inflammation. In these affections, blisters are used with very evident advantage; the local inflammation which is excited more than counterbalancing, by this operation, the stimulant effects at the same time produ- ced." From the circumstance of blisters operating as ge- neral stimulants, they may be had recourse to with ad- vantage in diseases partaking of a typhoid type ; and indeed they appear often to rouse up the nervous energy when the administration of the various stimu- lant medicines appear to do but little good. Epispastics and Rubifacients. Lytta Vittata Potatoe Fly Rhus Toxicodendron Poison Oak Rhus Radicans . Poison-vine Rhus Vernix Poison Sumach Dirca Palustris Leather-wood Laurus Sassafras Sassafras Chimaphila Umbellata Pippsissewa Euphorbia Corollata Large flowering Spurge Ranunculus Sceleratus Celery-leaved Crow-foot Anthemis Cotula Wild Chamomile 221 Juglaus Cinerea Butternut Juniperus Virginiana . Common Red Cedar Tree Lytta Vittata, Potato Fly. This insect which is certainly deserving of the par- ticular regard of physicians, is the Cantharis Vittata of Oliver. In some parts of our country its virtues are well known; and by those who have made use of it, it is thought to be equal if not superior, in some respects, to the Lytta Versicatoria. I have used it myself, and have found it equally as certain in producing its ef- fects, as the European insect. It raises a blister in less time, which is a matter of the utmost importance in some cases.* We have several other species of the genus Lytta in the United States : the Lytta Marginata, the Lytta Atrata, and the Lytta Cinerea; all of which differ on- ly in the force with which they act, when applied to the surface of the body. The different species just mentioned, are said to possess all the active and use- ful properties of the European insect. •There is not the least doubt but what this valuable insect might be procured in sufficient quantities, to answer the demands of every American practitioner. It ought to have a place in all the apothecary shops throughout the United States. If the apotheca- ries were to make it a business to keep the article, there is but little doubt but what they would find a very ready sale for it. The dif- ferent species of this insect are not confined to one plant only, but are to be found upon several others. 222 Rhus Toxicodendron, Poison-oak, Pent. Trigy. Folia*. This as well as some of the other species of the genus Rhus, is considerably more active in warm weather. 1 knew several persons who dare not ap- proach near to it, without being afterwards affected with a troublesome itching, and inflammation of the skin. Perhaps its use as a rubifacient, is not wor- thy of much attention, inasmuch as the effects arising from its application, may be sometimes more unplea- sant to bear than the disease. Some constitutions are not affected by it. 1 have frequently rubbed the leaves upon my arms without their affecting me in the least. The most suitable remedies for removing the unpleasant, and frequently, the alarming symptoms which at times occur, in consequence of persons ha- ving handled, or approached too near the poison oak, are those of a cooling nature, such as : a solution of sugar of lead, or corrosive sublimate in water ; blood- letting and the free use of cathartics may answer a good purpose. Persons who are apt to become af- fected by this article should carefully avoid it. The Rhus lihadicans, or poison-vine, and the Rhus Ver- nix, or poison sumach, produce the same effect. 223 Dirca Palustris, Leather-wood, Octand. Monog. Cortex. The contused bark of this production, moistened with vinegar, and applied to the skin, often induces vesication. Its effect in this respect, are perhaps too feeble to promise much good. Laurus Sassafras, Sassafras, Enneand. Monog. Oleum. The oil of sassafras is an excellent rubifacient re- medy. In chronic rheumatism, and other affections of a local nature, it will be found a most invaluable ap- plication. It may also be combined with other stimulating oils, with advantage. Chimaphila Umbellata, Pippsissewa, Decand. Monog. Folia. The bruised leaves of this plant, will often induce inflammation. They are,, however, too uncertain to promise much benefit in this way. Euphorbia Corollata, Large flowering Spurge, Dodec. Trigynia, Radix. This article I have noticed more particularly un- der the head of emetics. I have found that the re- cent root when contused, and applied to the surface, will induce vesication in twelve or fifteen hours, which goes off in the course of two or three days, without 224 being attended by any inconvenience. I was led to give it a trial in this way, from the circumstance of my face becoming considerably iuflamed, after having handled the root.* Ranunculus Sceleratus, Celery-leaved Crow-foot, Polyand. Polygam. Folia. This plant is a native of Europe as well as America. It is extremely acid. If it be bruised and laid upon the surface of the body, it will raise a blister in a few hours. The beggars in Switzerland, by rubbing their legs with the leaves, are said to produce a very foetid and acrimonious ulceration. Anthemis Cotula, Wild Chamomile, Synge. Polyand. Superflua. Herba. I have been informed by Doctor Allen Thomas, that if the Anthemis Cotula be bruised, and applied to the surface of the human body, it will induce inflam- mation, and sometimes vesification. * The milky substance which exudes from every part of the plant, when broken, I have been informed, (by some of the coun- try people,) is a valuable application in Herpes farinosus. It is also applied to warts. I can say nothing of its effects in these cas- es from my own experience, but I believe that it might be found a useful remedy: as we find these affections not unfrequently yield to stimulating applications. 225 Juglans Cinerea, Butter-nut, Monoi. Polyand. Cortex. The bark of the root of this tree is rather prefera- ble to that of the body or its branches. It is said to be a pretty efficacious blister, and as such it has been ap- plied to the bite of some of our venomous serpents. The juice ot the green fruit has been found useful in cases of Herpes Farinosus. Juniperus Virginiana, Common Red Cedar Tree, Dioecia. Monadel. Baccae. The leaves of this tree, when bruised and laid up- on any part of the body, will induce inflammation. Applied in this way they mav be found useful in some cases, in which remedies of this class are deem- med useful. CHAPTER XVII. Escharotics. Doctor Murray has placed this class of remedies in the third division of the articles*of the xVlateria Medi- 29 226 ca; the substances belonging to which, he has denom- inated chemical remedies. It will readily be per ecived that I have taken this class from this division, and placed it in the second division, comprehending the local stimulants. Considering the effects of the application of escha- rotics in dissolving the animal solids with which they come into contact, to be the result of the powerful stimulant influence which they exert; and not to be attributed to any chemical action which they display by which their effects are produced, 1 have been led to introduce this class among the local stimulants. Inconsistent appears to be the sentiment of the cele- brated Murray, in relation to his entertaining the opinion of escharotics producing their effects in con- sequence of the chemical agency which he supposes they exert, and which is peculiar to their application, as operating analogously ; when from a minute exami- nation of the articles of this kind, we are led to believe that their escharotic effects are to be ascribed to the power which they exhibit, as depending on the con- centrated degree of stimulant action which they dis- play in their producing the results which succeed their application. Satisfactory, in a considerable degree, are the evi- dences which can be advanced in attestation of this sentiment. "The mineral acids act rapidly as es- charotics," says Doctor Murray. These acids when suitably diluted with water, and applied to the sur- 227 face, are competent to the production of vesication: but when used in a concentrated form, erode or dis- solve the animal solids. It, therefore, appears that they act as stimulants in their producing this effect, in as much, as, when they are weakened, their stim- ulant powers become evident from the inflammation and consequent vesication which they induce. Hence they cannot with propriety be denominated chemical remedies, but local stimulants. The application of hot iron will excite inflammation and produce a bjister ; but when it is brought up to a red heat, it destroys the parts on which it is put; but not as a chemical agent; but from the circumstance of its stimulant power being so great, as immediately to destroy the sensibility and vitality. If it acts as a stimulant in exciting vesication, it is reasonable to infer, and that deduction upon legitimate principles, would most certainly lead us to the conclusion, that its opera- tion in the latter way, differed only in the force, from that of the former, by which a difference of effect was brought about. We might with as much propriety attempt to ad- vance the idea that vesication was not the result of a stimulant impression exerted on the surface by the sub- stance, which by its application was productive of this effect, as to suppose that escharotics did not pro- duce these effects in consequence of a stimulant power which they exert; for by a minute examination, we can discover that blisters are produced by an increased 228 rubifacient power, and escharotics by an increased ve- sicating power. Escharotics. Asclepias Tuberosa Pleurisy-root Phytolacca Decandra Poke Sanguinaria Canadensis Puccoon Asclepias Tuberosa, Pleurisy root, Pentand. Digy. Radix. As an fischarotic, the powdered root of the Ascle- pias Tuberosa is sometimes used for restraining fun- gous flesh in ulcers. Phytolacca Decandra, Poke, Decand. Decagy. Radix. The powdered root of this plant, is also escharotic : but it is rather inferior to the one just mentioned. Sanguinaria Canadensis, Puccoon, Polyand. Monog. Radix. This plant certainly must be acknowledged, by those who are acquainted with its virtues, to be a va- luable indigenous production. The powdered root is escharotic, and as such it is stated to have cured Polypi. The juice is applied by the country people, to warts, to destroy them. 229 DIVISION THE THIRD. The only class of remedies indigenous to the United States, which can be introduced into this division, is that of refrigerants. The articles which are entitled to a place here, Murray, defines such substances " the operation of which either depends on the chem- ical changes they produce, or is materially modified by these changes." CHAPTER XVIII. Refrigerants. The present class of medicines was not introduced in the former edition of this work. Influenced, how- ever, by the desire of inviting the attention of the profession to the consideration of our native refrige- rants, I have been induced to notice a few of our in- digenous remedies of this kind in the present publica- tion. ^ 230 Refrigerants. Rhus Glabrum Sumach Oxycoccus Mecrocarpus Craneberry Rubus Villosus Blackberry Rubus Procumbeus Dewberry Rhus Glabrum, Sumach, Pent. Trig. Baccae. The berries of this interesting species of Rhus, are considerably acid and somewhat astringent to the taste. The former property exists in a downy or pubescent substance, that upon examination will be found to in- velope each berry ; and the latter in the berry itself. From the analysis of this pubescent portion that has been made, it appears to contain a considerable quan- tity of malic acid. This acid it is said may be sub- stituted for all the purposes in medicine, in which the citric and tartaric acids have been found useful. This acid may be prepared by macerating the su- mach berries in boiling rain water for five or six hours, after which it is to be passed through a filter and eva- porated in a tin vessel, until it obtains the consistence of a syrup. To this syrup, a similar proportion of the spt. vini rect. should be added, in order to unite with it the acid, and leave the mucilaginous part remain- ing in a state of seperation. The alcohon is then to be decanted, and an equal quantity of distilled or rain water is to be added, and placed in a retort. When 231 the alcohol is supposed to have passed off, the heat may be removed, and the contents therein permitted to Cool, which will be found to be the acid above no- ticed. Oxycoccus Mecrocarpus,* Cranberry, Octand. Monog. Fructus. The article under consideration is made known by almost every individual; but more particularly by such, as have been raised in our large cities, where it is not unfrequently preserved for the purpose of ma- king tarts ; in which form, it is generally considered by the lovers of good eating, to be one of the luxuries of this life. The expressed juice of the cranberry possesses a considerable degree of acidity; this, however, may be neutralized somewhat, by the addition of a suitable quantity of loaf sugar. Prepared in this way, with an equal portion of water, it will be found a useful acidu- lous drink, in allaying thirst and lessening, in some measure, the heat of the human body when preter- naturally increased. With this view, it may be exhi- bited as an auxiliary with the common refrigerants, in cases connected with much febrile excitement, "The expressed juice," Professor W. P. C. Barton, says, " might be preserved by a sufficient quantity of alcohol to prevent fermentation, and set aside for sum- * This is the Vaccinium Macrocarpus of Willdenow, and the Vaccinium Oxycoccus and Oblongifolius of Michaux. 232 mer use, to make a kind of lemonade. A rob might also be prepared, and advantageouslv used in diet and medicine, by evaporating the syrup obtained from them."* Rubus Villosus, Blackberry, Icos. Polygy. Baccse. A syrup prepared from the blackberries when on the turn from red to black, and suitably admixed with water, will be found a useful cooling drink in febrile affections, in which articles of the kind are allowed. Rubus Procumbreus, Dewberry, Icos. Polygy. Baccse. The berries prepared from this plant in the same way as the blackberries, may be used with equal ad- vantage. DIVISION THE FOURTH. The articles included within this division, may be considered as acting mechanically. In this division we only introduce the classes of Demulcents and Anthel- mintics. •See his Flora of North America, page 61. 233 CHAPTER XIX. Demulcents. The remedies belonging to this class may be consi- dered as being calculated to obtund the effects of irrita- tating matters, "not" however "by correcting or changing their acrimomy, but by involving it in a mild and viscid matter, which prevents it from acting upon the sensitive parts of our bodies, or by covering the surface exposed to their action." From the circumstance of their having the effect of lessening irritation, by their bland and soothing quali- ties, they may be applied externally with advantage, and given internally with benefit in affections connect- ed with local inflammation. Demulcents. Ulmus Fulva Slippery Elm Phanax Quinquefolium Ginseng Ulmus Fulva,* Slippery Elm, Pentand. Digy. Cortex Interna. This is a valuable tree. The inner bark affords by boiling, a mucilaginous substance, which may be era- •This is the Ulmus Rubra of Muhlenburgh. 30 234 ployed as a diet drink, and will be found a useful me- dicine in affections of the thorax. 1 have found it a valuable drink in the summer complaint of children. It is highly recommended in diarrhoea and dysentery. As a topical application, it will be found useful in a number of affections, f Phanax Quinquefolium, Ginseng, Pentand. Digy. Radix. The root of this plant is deserving of a place among this class of mediciues. Though I believe it is sel- dom employed in practice. CHAPTER XX. Anthelmintics. Under this head, the reader will find some articles, that are justly deserving the attention of every Ameri- t" It forms" says Professor Chapman, " an excellent emollient poultice, even milder, it is said, than bread and milk, or flaxseed. This is a good deal resorted to in country practice, in ulcers, recent burns, chilblains, cutaneous eruptions, and in the discussion of tu- mours and other swellings. By many of our army surgeons, it is 235 can practitioner. The Spigelia Marilandica, and the Chenopodium Anthelminticnm, have not only attract. ed the notice of our physicians, but those of Europe. These two productions may be considered the best An- thelmintics, with which the knowledge of the Materia Medica of our country acquaints us ; being more cer- tain and effectual in their operation than any others. There are others that are to be noticed as we pass on with the subject. Anthelmintics. Spigelia Marilandica Carolina Pink-root Chenopodium Anthelminticum Worm seed Laurus Benzoin Spice Wood Prunus Virginiana Wild Cherry Tree Cleome Dodecandra Clammy Cleome Podophyllum Peltatum May-apple Liriodendron Tulipifera Tulip Tree Veratrum Luteum Blazing Star Spigelia Marilandica, Carolina Pink-root, Pentand. Monog. Herba et Radix. This is a perennial plant, growing wild in various parts of our country. The root is celebrated as an anthelmintic, particularly for the expulsion of lumbrici highly esteemed in gun-shot wounds, and is said sometimes to be beneficial in arresting a tendency to mortification." There are se- veral species of the genus Ulmus that are indigenous to this coun- try ; the present one appears to be the most useful demulcent. 236 from the alimentary canal, and it often affords relief where no worms are discharged. The unpleasant ef- fects which are sometimes said to follow its internal exhibition, may be easily prevented, by giving in com- bination with the Spigelia Marilandica, a small quan* tity of the Radix Aristolochia Serperitaria. It is ge- nerally given in the form of infusion ; and in the course of twelve hours after, followed by a dose of castor oil; or calomel and jallap. An infusion of the Spigelia Marilandica in wine, has been found useful in intermittent fevers. Dr. B. S. Barton recommends it in the insidious remittent fever in children, which of- ten lays the foundation for hydrocephalus^ Some per- sons are in the habit of using the root, while others give the preference to the plant; but 1 believe they dif- fer very little from each other. If we wish to give the plant in substance, the dose should be from ten to fifteen grains. •■■ . t't Chenopodium Anthelminticum, Worm seed, Pentand. Digy. Herba, Semina et Oleum. This plant is not exclusively a native of the Uuited States : it is a native of Buenos Ayres also. Every part of it is used as an anthelmintic. The expressed juice of the plant is sometimes given in the dose of a tablespoonful, to a child of three or four years old. The powdered seed may be given in the dose of half a drachm, or a drachm to an adult. This after being continued for some days, may be followed by a dose 237 of castor oil, or any other cathartic. The essential oil of worm seed, is a much more certain anthelmintic : the dose for a child one or two months old, is about two or three drops. It may be given with a little cas- tor oil; and to children of six or eight years old, eight or ten drops may be combined with a dose of jallap, or rheubarb. Laurus Benzoin, Spice-wood, Enneand. Monog. We are informed that an infusion of the twigs and leaves of this shrub, is often given to children, with a view to destroy and dislodge worms. Prunus Virginiana, Wild-cherry tree, Icos. Monog. Cortex. As an anthelmintic, an infusion of the bark of this tree, has been found useful. I know nothing of it from my own observation. Cleome Dodecandra, Clammy Cleome, Polyand, Monog. Radix. The root of this plant has been considered anthel- mintic : perhaps future experiments will establish its virtues as being such. Podophyllum Peltatum, May Apple, Polyand. Monog. Radix. The root of this plant has been noticed as an an- thelmintic. I am disposed to doubt of its utility as a 238 medicine of this kind. I have givenit in a number of cases of worms, without its even proving effectual in one instance. Liriodendron Tulipifera, Tulip-tree, Polyand. Poly- gy. Cortex. Whether the Liriodendron Tulipifera, is deserving of a place among the class of anthelmintics, I leave for future experiments to determine. Veratrum Luteum, Blazing Star, Polygam. Monog. Radix. .The root of this plant is deemed an excellent medi- cine in cases of worms. It may be given in infusion or decoction. I can say nothing of the virtues of this plant from my own experience. INDEX. A. Page. Acorus Calamus - 88, 101. Ac tax Racemosa - 50,72, 126, 137. Agrimonia Bupatoria - 126, 129. Anona Triloba - 180,188. Anthelmintics - - 234, 235# Anthemis Cotula - - 89, 115, 155, 168,220, 224, Antispasmodics - 76. Apocynum Androsmioefolium 88, 97, 155, 156. Aralia Nudicaulis - 88, 97. Spinosa - - 214. Arbutus Uva Ursi - 126,128. Aristolochia Serpentaria - 89, 115. Sipho - 89, 117. Arum Triphyllum - - 209, 213. Asarum Canadense - 200, 202,217. Asclepias Incarnata - - 155, 158. Syriaca - - 209,210. Tuberosa - - 180,183,200,201,209 211,228. Astringents - - 119, 125. Atriplex Odorates - 84. Suarcoteus - 84. B Botrya Vulgaris - 84. c. Cantharis Vittata - - 221. Cassia Marilandica - - 180,183. Cathartics - - 169, 180. 240 INDEX. Page. Chenopodium Anthelminticum 81, 84, 235, 236. Botrys - - 84. Chimaphila Corymbosa - 101. Maculata - - 89, 102, 214, 215. Umbellata ' . ( 88> 101' 126> La?119*' ,97' 314' 2U« \ 220, 223. Chironia Angularis - - 88,95. Cicuta Maculata 50 65. Cleome Dodecandra - - 235, 237- Comptonia Asplenifolia - 126,139. Convolvulous Panduralus * 180, 182, 194, 196. Coptis Trifolia 89, 105. Cornus Circinata - - - 88, 90. Florida - - - 88,91. Panaculata - - 88.93. Sericea - - - 88,93. Cunila Mariana - - - 88,89. Pulegoides - - 88,90, 192. D Datura Stramonium - - 50,55. Tatula - - - 50,62. Daucus Carota ... 194,^ 195, Demulcents - 233. Diaphoretics - - - 199,200. Dirca Palustris - - - 155, 159,220, 223. Diuretics - 193, 194. Division the first - - 47. second - .141. third - - 229. fourth - - 232. Dyospyros Virginiana - 126, 140. Emetics - - - - 142, 155. INDEX. 2*1 Page. Ernmenagogues - - 190. Epispastics and Rubifacients - 218,220. Errhines - - - - 216, 117. Eryngium Aquaticum - - 200. Zuccifolium - 194,196. Erythronium Americanum - 155,158. Congifolium - 158. Flavum - - 158. Lanceolatum 158. Escharotics - 225, 228. Eupatorium Connatum - HI. Perfoliatum - 89, 111, 155, 168, 180, 188,200,205. Pilosum - H4. Zeucrifolium -89, 114. Virginianum - HI. EuphorbiaCorollata - • 155, 162, 200, 203,209,211, MO,MS. Hypericifolia - 126, 130. Ipecacuanha - - 155, 162. Expectorants - - - 207,209. ¥. Frasera Caroliniensis - - 88,94. Walteri - - 94 G. Gaultheria Procumbens - 50,70. Gentiana Catesby - - 88> "• Geranium Maculatum - • 126,138. Robertianum - 126»139- GeumRivale - - -126,136. Gillenia Stipulacece - - 155,166. Trifoliata - - -155,165. H. Huchera Americana - - 125,126. ^ 242 Huchera Cortusa - Viscida Humulus Lupulus Hydrastis Canadensis Hyosciamus Luteus Niger - I. Ilex Vomitoria Iris Verna Versicolor Virginica J. Juglans Cinerea - Juniperus Virginiana K. Kalmia Angustifolia Latifolia L. Laurus Benzoin - Sassafras Liriodendron Tulipifera Lobelia Inflata - Syphilitica Lycopus Virginicus - Lytta Atrata - Cinerea - Marginata - Vittata - M. Magnolia Acuminata Glauca Grandiflora Tripetala - INDEX. Page. - 136. 126. - 50,73, 89, 117, 194,199. 89, 109. - 51. 51. - 155,194, 195. 180, 181. - 180, 181, 194, 180. -221, 225, 180, 189. 221,225,198. - 50, 72. 50,71. - 235, 237. 200, 205, 220, 223. - 89, 108, 235, 238. 155,167,209,312. -194, 198. 49, 50. - 221. 221. -221. 220,221. - 89, 106. 89, 105. - 89, 107. 88, 107. INDEX. 243 Page. Memjanthes Trifoliata - - 88, 96. Myrica Cerifera - - 126,140,217,218. N. Narcotics - - - - 48,49. C 49, 50,155, 158, 180, 182, 194, 195, Nicotiana Rustica - - < 209. C 49, 52,155, 157, 180, 183, 194, 195, Tabaccum - < 209. Minor • - 51. o. On the classification of thear-? 37< tides of the Materia Medica S On the improvement of the ? g< Materia Medica - 5 Orobanche Virginiana - 126,137. Oxycoccus Mecrocarpus - 230, 230. P. Petum . - - - 52. Phanax Quinquefolium - - 233,234. Phytolacca Decandra - 155,159,228. Podophyllum Peltatum - - 180,184, 235, 237. Polygala Polygama - - n®« Rubella - - -89,110. Senega - - 155,167,191,192,209,212,214,215. Populus Tremula - - -89,118. Potentilla Reptans - - 126> l35> Prinos VerticUlatus - - 88> 10°- Prunus Virginiana - - 89,103,235,237. Pyrola Maculata - - - 102* Umbellata - - lo1- Q Quercus Rubra Montana - 126, 140, -95. 55, 166,200,203,209,211,217, 218, 244 INDEX. Page. H. Ranunculus Sceleratus - 220,224. Remarks on the modus ope- ? 23. randi of medicines } Rhus Coriaria - - - 126. Glabrum - - 125,126,230. Radicans - - -50,69,220,222. Toxicodendron - 50,67,220,222. Vernix - - - 50,70,220,222. Rubus Procumbens - 126,136,230,232. Villosus - - -126,135,230,232. Rumex Acutex - - 180,183. S. Sabatia Angularis - . . ( 155, 166,200,203,21 Sanguinaria Canadensis - < 228. Scutellaria Galericulata - - 110. Hysopifolia - 110. Integrifolia - - 110. Lateriflora - 81,84,89,109. Sialagogues - - - 214. Solanum Dulcamara - - 50, 63. Foetidum - - 55. Maniacum - 55. Solidago Odora - - -89.115. Sophora Tinctoria - - 155,159,200,202. Spirea Tormentosa - -126,134. StaticeCaroliniana - - 126,127,209,211. Limonium - - - 127. Symplocarpus Angustispatha 81, 83. Foetida - - 81. T. Table of Classification - 46. INDEX. 245 <, * Page. Trifolium Aquaticum - - 96. Fibrinum - 96. Paludosum - 96. Triosteum Perfoliatum 180, 181,194, 196 u. Ulmus Fulva -233. Rubra - 233. V. Veratrum Luteum - 89, 119, 235, 238. Viride 50, 74. z. Zanthorhiza Apiifolia - - 88,99. Simplicissima 99. Tinctoria - -99. Zanthoxylum Clava Herculis 214. Fraxinifolium -214. FINIS. J ERRATA. Page 14, line 22, for Papauer, read Papaver. 14, 27, for amesis, read emesis. 20, 9, for admonished, read admin istered. 30, 17, for the, read these. 33, 2, for entering, read enter. S7, 15, for sympathetick, read lym phaticks. 39, 11, for instace, read instance. 48, note, for diminuation, read diminution. 50, fine 19, for deviate, readdentale. 52, 23, for acid, read acrid. 55, note, for Buupin, read Bauhin. 58, #ne 5, for vegetable, read vegetables. 65, 12, for Penland, read Pentandria. 66, 14, for fine, read five. 72, 19, for acteed, read actoea. 74, 23, for Mouoccia, read Monoicia. 75, 26, for Professor Bigdow, read Professor Bigelow. SI, 14, for Mildenow, read Wildenow. 81, note, for th, read the. S5,line 25, for sanquijerous, read sanguiferous. 88, 18, for Carolinceusis, read Caroliniensis. 88, 21, for Androsomijolium, read Androscemifolium. 89, 18, for Aspiu, read Aspin. 90, 12, for Diana, read Diandria. 94, 10, for Carolinicusis, read Caroliniensis. 96, 10, for Frifoliata, read Trifoliata. 96, 12, for o, read of. 96, note, for Frifolicum and Frifolium, read Trifolium. 103, fine 5, for deututed, read dentated. 104, note, for Pherapeuticks, read Therapeuticks. 105, fine 18, for Magnolia GCanca, read Magnolia Glauca. 107, 14, for Jacod Dyckman, M. D., read Jacob Dyckman, M 109, 10, for of, read or. 112, 10, for Eupatorim, read Eupatorium. 121, 12, for construction, read constriction. 122, 12, for dtmunition, read diminution. 124, 18, for antiphilogistick, read antiphlogistick. 125, 11, for is not the case, read is the case. 126, 9, for water aveus, read water avens. 126, 26, for this, read the. 127, 9, for to to, read to. 134, 18, for case, read use. 134, 27,for Plasta., read Planta. 139, 11, for denomination, read administration. 139, 12, for administration, read denomination. 140, 8, for Sulphus, read Sulphas. 151, 6, for energies, read energies. 155, 20, for Hex Vomitoria, read Hex Vomitoria. 158, 12, for Doctor Fully, read Doctor Tully. 159, 3, for Menog., read Mono^ynia. 160, 9, for Professor Rigelow, read Professor Bigelow. 166, 6, for flowered, read flowering. 174, 16, for Tonsillais, read Tonsillaris. 180, 17, for Juglatts Cinerea, read Juglans Cinerea. 220, 1, for occasions derivation, read occasions a derivation. 231, 7, for made known, read known. >/0 •' # 1 *: t^i ysxz-•**.ah i^ft^^as *;«&..iir